bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identify Finger Rotation Angles With ArUco Markers and Action Cameras
Authors: Yuan Tianyun , Song Yu (Wolf) , Kraan Gerald A. , Goossens Richard H. M.
Published: January 2022

Measuring the motions of human hand joints is often a challenge due to the high number of degrees-of-freedom. In this study, we proposed a hand tracking system utilizing action cameras and ArUco markers to continuously measure the rotation angles of hand joints during motion. Three methods were developed to estimate the joint rotation angles. The pos-based method transforms marker positions to a reference coordinate system and extracts a hand skeleton to identify the rotation angles. Similarly, the orient-x-based method calculates the rotation angles from the transformed x-orientations of the detected markers in the reference coordinate system. In contrast, the orient-mat-based method first identifies the rotation angles in each camera coordinate system using the detected orientations and then synthesizes the results regarding each joint. Experiment results indicated that the repeatability errors with one camera regarding different marker sizes were around 2.64–27.56 deg and 0.60–2.36 deg using the marker positions and orientations, respectively. With multiple cameras employed, the joint rotation angles measured by using the three methods were compared with that measured by a goniometer. Comparison results indicated that the results of using the orient-mat-based method are more stable and efficient and can describe more types of movements. The effectiveness of this method was further verified by capturing hand movements of several participants. Therefore, it is recommended for measuring joint rotation angles in practical setups.
New SIMS method to characterize hydrogen in polysilicon films
Authors: Lin Xue-feng , Fucsko Agi , Noehring Kari , Gabriel Elaine , Regner Adam , York Scott , Palsulich David
Published: January 2022

A new analysis protocol for profiling the hydrogen (H) concentration depth distributions in polysilicon (poly-Si) thin films on Si oxide was developed by using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Traditional SIMS determination of H concentrations in poly-Si films is to monitor and collect the atomic H−, but this analysis method presents some challenges for providing stable and repeatable H depth profiles, especially, for shallow profiling in thinner poly-Si films on thicker Si oxide films. In this paper, we present a thorough study of the SIMS characterization of H levels in poly-Si thin films on Si oxide. We describe an approach for the use of cluster SiH− instead of atomic H− to determine the H concentrations. The utilization of the SiH− cluster ion minimizes both H adsorption effects on the film surface regions and sample surface charging effects arising from the Si oxide layer underneath, thus enhancing the secondary ion signal stability in poly-Si films, as discussed with secondary ion energy distribution on the samples. This method differs from the conventional SIMS analysis of H in thin films and significantly improves the data quality and accuracy. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis was used to study the Si–H chemical bonding information for investigating the nature of the SIMS collected SiH− cluster ions. Both the H implant sample with no significant Si–H bonding and the poly-Si samples with high levels of H and the weak Si–H bonding exhibited strong SiH− secondary cluster ion intensities in our studies. This indicates the cluster ion signals arise from either the combination of Si and H ions through the physics formation process or weak chemically bonded Si and H.
Examining the Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy in Physical Education Teacher Education Alumni
Authors: Flory Sara B. , Wylie Rebecca C. , Nieman Craigory V.
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To examine the culturally responsive teaching self-efficacy of graduates of a physical education teacher education undergraduate program specifically focused on social justice issues. Methods: A total of 43 graduates (from 2013 to 2019) of a physical education teacher education program completed the Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale and demographic questions via Qualtrics (50.6% response rate). Descriptive statistics and data analysis were completed using SPSS. Results: The total Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale scores from these participants ranged from 1,567 to 4,000 (M = 3,469.63; SD = 555.34). Participants scored highest on items related to their confidence in developing personal relationships and trust with students. They scored lowest on items related to more specific culturally sensitive and responsive teaching practices. Discussion: Specific coursework and training need to be implemented to address more culturally responsive teaching practices, such as how to communicate effectively with students whose primary language is not English.
Tissue geometry drives deterministic organoid patterning
Authors: Gjorevski N. , Nikolaev M. , Brown T. E. , Mitrofanova O. , Brandenberg N. , DelRio F. W. , Yavitt F. M. , Liberali P. , Anseth K. S. , Lutolf M. P.
Published: January 2022

Spatial and temporal organoid control

Stem cell–derived organoids form through self-organization and serve as models for organ development, function, and disease, with potential applications in drug development and personalized medicine. However, in the absence of external guidance, developmental processes are stochastic, resulting in variable end products that differ significantly from the native organ. Gjorevski
et al
. developed approaches for specifying the initial organoid geometry to build intestinal organoids of defined shape, size, and cell distributions, forming structures that are predictable, more similar to normal organs, and reproducible (see the Perspective by Huycke and Gartner). These methods identify symmetry-breaking mechanisms in intestinal morphogenesis and have potential for standardizing organoid-based therapies and facilitating the refinement of mechanistic studies. —BAP
Evidence for a delocalization quantum phase transition without symmetry breaking in CeCoIn
5
Authors: Maksimovic Nikola , Eilbott Daniel H. , Cookmeyer Tessa , Wan Fanghui , Rusz Jan , Nagarajan Vikram , Haley Shannon C. , Maniv Eran , Gong Amanda , Faubel Stefano , Hayes Ian M. , Bangura Ali , Singleton John , Palmstrom Johanna C. , Winter Laurel , McDonald Ross , Jang Sooyoung , Ai Ping , Lin Yi , Ciocys Samuel , Gobbo Jacob , Werman Yochai , Oppeneer Peter M. , Altman Ehud , Lanzara Alessandra , Analytis James G.
Published: January 2022

A gentle reconstruction

Changes in the volume of a material’s Fermi surface are typically associated with the breaking of symmetry. Maksimovic
et al
. found evidence for an unusual type of this Fermi surface reconstruction, one without symmetry breaking, in the heavy fermion compound cerium cobalt indium (CeCoIn
5
). Doping the material with tin led to abrupt changes in Hall effect, quantum oscillation, and photoemission signals. The researchers interpret the findings in terms of the delocalization of f-electrons associated with cerium atoms. —JS
Tertiary lymphoid structures in cancer
Authors: Schumacher Ton N. , Thommen Daniela S.
Published: January 2022

Tertiary lymphoid structures in cancer

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are lymphoid formations that are found in nonlymphoid tissues. TLS can develop in inflamed tissues and are associated with chronic inflammatory disorders, autoimmunity, and cancer. In the setting of tumors, TLSs facilitate the influx of immune cells into the tumor site and have therefore attracted interest as a means of improving anticancer immunity and favorable treatment response in patients. Schumacher and Thommen review the biology of TLSs and outline recent advances in TLS research. They discuss how TLSs are detected and defined, the mechanism(s) of formation in cancer, and the potential of targeting TLSs for therapeutic benefit. —PNK
Single-walled zeolitic nanotubes
Authors: Korde Akshay , Min Byunghyun , Kapaca Elina , Knio Omar , Nezam Iman , Wang Ziyuan , Leisen Johannes , Yin Xinyang , Zhang Xueyi , Sholl David S. , Zou Xiaodong , Willhammar Tom , Jones Christopher W. , Nair Sankar
Published: January 2022

Zeolitic nanotubes

Nanotubes generally have solid walls, but a low-dimensional version of zeolites now introduces porosity into such structures. Korde
et al
. used a structure-directing agent with a hydrophobic biphenyl group center connecting two long alkyl chains bearing hydrophilic bulky quaternary ammonium head groups to direct hydrothermal synthesis with silicon-rich precursors (see the Perspective by Fan and Dong). The nanotubes have a mesoporous central channel of approximately 3 nanometers and zeolitic walls with micropores less than 0.6 nanometers. Electron microscopy and modeling showed that the outer surface is a projection of a large-pore zeolite and the inner surface is a projection of a medium-pore zeolite. —PDS
A neuronal mechanism for motivational control of behavior
Authors: Courtin J. , Bitterman Y. , Müller S. , Hinz J. , Hagihara K. M. , Müller C. , Lüthi A.
Published: January 2022

The amygdala and goal-directed actions

Almost everything we do in our daily lives is goal directed. The brain can maintain a motivational state to direct actions to achieve desired outcomes. Using deep-brain calcium imaging, electrophysiology, and optogenetics in mice, Courtin
et al
. observed that at the time of goal-directed action, basolateral amygdala principal neurons integrate and encode pursued outcome identity, pursued outcome value, and action-outcome contingency information. At the time of consumption, basolateral amygdala neuronal firing represents current outcome identity and value. Together, action- and consumption-associated activity integrate behaviorally relevant information at distinct time points along goal-directed action-consumption sequences. —PRS
Metastable Dion-Jacobson 2D structure enables efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhang Fei , Park So Yeon , Yao Canglang , Lu Haipeng , Dunfield Sean P. , Xiao Chuanxiao , Uličná Soňa , Zhao Xiaoming , Du Hill Linze , Chen Xihan , Wang Xiaoming , Mundt Laura E. , Stone Kevin H. , Schelhas Laura T. , Teeter Glenn , Parkin Sean , Ratcliff Erin L. , Loo Yueh-Lin , Berry Joseph J. , Beard Matthew C. , Yan Yanfa , Larson Bryon W. , Zhu Kai
Published: January 2022

Directing efficient hole transport

Surface defects in three-dimensional perovskites can decrease performance but can be healed with coatings based on two-dimensional (2D) perovskite such as Ruddlesden-Popper phases. However, the bulky organic groups of these 2D phases can lead to low and anisotropic charge transport. F. Zhang
et al
. show that a metastable polymorph of a Dion-Jacobson 2D structure based on asymmetric organic molecules reduced the energy barrier for hole transport and their transport through the layer. When used as a top layer for a triple-cation mixed-halide perovskite, a solar cell retained 90% of its initial power conversion efficiency of 24.7% after 1000 hours of operation at approximately 40°C in nitrogen. —PDS
Dense functional and molecular readout of a circuit hub in sensory cortex
Authors: Condylis Cameron , Ghanbari Abed , Manjrekar Nikita , Bistrong Karina , Yao Shenqin , Yao Zizhen , Nguyen Thuc Nghi , Zeng Hongkui , Tasic Bosiljka , Chen Jerry L.
Published: January 2022

Cell type diversity in the neocortex

The ability to link molecularly identified neurons with their function during behavior requires monitoring the activity of these cell types in vivo. Condylis
et al
. developed a platform for population functional imaging with spatial transcriptomics. Using newly acquired transcriptomic cell census data from the Allen Institute for Brain Science, the authors studied the function of cell types in primary somatosensory cortex in mice performing a tactile working memory task. Task-related properties of both excitatory and inhibitory neurons continued to differentiate as they were segregated into increasingly discrete molecular types. A new excitatory cell type, Baz1a, formed a sensory-driven circuit hub that orchestrates local sensory processing in superficial layers of the neocortex. This approach opens new venues for exploring information processing in the brain. —PRS
CAR T cells produced in vivo to treat cardiac injury
Authors: Rurik Joel G. , Tombácz István , Yadegari Amir , Méndez Fernández Pedro O. , Shewale Swapnil V. , Li Li , Kimura Toru , Soliman Ousamah Younoss , Papp Tyler E. , Tam Ying K. , Mui Barbara L. , Albelda Steven M. , Puré Ellen , June Carl H. , Aghajanian Haig , Weissman Drew , Parhiz Hamideh , Epstein Jonathan A.
Published: January 2022

Making CAR T cells in vivo

Cardiac fibrosis is the stiffening and scarring of heart tissue and can be fatal. Rurik
et al
. designed an immunotherapy strategy to generate transient chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells that can recognize the fibrotic cells in the heart (see the Perspective by Gao and Chen). By injecting CD5-targeted lipid nanoparticles containing the messenger RNA (mRNA) instructions needed to reprogram T lymphocytes, the researchers were able to generate therapeutic CAR T cells entirely inside the body. Analysis of a mouse model of heart disease revealed that the approach was successful in reducing fibrosis and restoring cardiac function. The ability to produce CAR T cells in vivo using modified mRNA may have a number of therapeutic applications. —PNK
COVID mortality in India: National survey data and health facility deaths
Authors: Jha Prabhat , Deshmukh Yashwant , Tumbe Chinmay , Suraweera Wilson , Bhowmick Aditi , Sharma Sankalp , Novosad Paul , Fu Sze Hang , Newcombe Leslie , Gelband Hellen , Brown Patrick
Published: January 2022

India’s national COVID death totals remain undetermined. Using an independent nationally representative survey of 0.14 million (M) adults, we compared COVID mortality during the 2020 and 2021 viral waves to expected all-cause mortality. COVID constituted 29% (95% confidence interval, 28 to 31%) of deaths from June 2020 to July 2021, corresponding to 3.2 M (3.1 to 3.4) deaths, of which 2.7 M (2.6 to 2.9) occurred in April to July 2021 (when COVID doubled all-cause mortality). A subsurvey of 57,000 adults showed similar temporal increases in mortality, with COVID and non-COVID deaths peaking similarly. Two government data sources found that, when compared to prepandemic periods, all-cause mortality was 27% (23 to 32%) higher in 0.2 M health facilities and 26% (21 to 31%) higher in civil registration deaths in 10 states; both increases occurred mostly in 2021. The analyses find that India’s cumulative COVID deaths by September 2021 were six to seven times higher than reported officially.
T cells to fix a broken heart
Authors: Gao Torahito A. , Chen Yvonne Y.
Published: January 2022

In vivo engineered T cells provide a promising approach to treat cardiac diseases
In Other Journals
Authors: Kelly Priscilla N. , Stern Peter , Hines Pamela J. , Wible Brad , Hurtley Stella M. , Osborne Ian S. , Grocholski Brent
Published: January 2022

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
The pandemic whistleblower
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: January 2022

Rick Bright raised the alarm about the Trump administration’s response to COVID-19. Now, he wants to build an alert system for future threats
Afghan scholars find a warm welcome in Rwanda
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: January 2022

Five academics have resettled in Kigali with help from the U.S. National Academies
Whole-Genome Sequence and Draft Assembly of the Biocontrol Fungal Pathogen Albifimbria verrucaria CABI-IMI 368023
Authors: Weaver Mark A. , Mirza Nahreen , Mandel Jennifer R. , Boyette C. Douglas , Brown Shawn P.
Published: January 2022

We report here the whole-genome sequence and draft assembly for a bioherbicidal strain of
Albifimbria verrucaria
, CABI-IMI 368023, which was formerly identified as
Myrothecium verrucaria
. This isolate has been well studied for the biological control of important weeds, including kudzu and giant salvinia.
Complete Genome Sequence of Hafnia paralvei Isolate AVS0177, Harboring
mcr-9
on a Plasmid
Authors: Biggel Michael , Zurfluh Katrin , Hoehn Sarah , Schmitt Kira , Frei Andrea , Jans Christoph , Stephan Roger
Published: January 2022

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of a
Hafnia paralvei
strain isolated from a lake in Switzerland in 2020. The genome consists of a 4.7-Mbp chromosome, a large plasmid (213 kb) harboring
mcr-9
, and a small plasmid (6 kb).
Draft Genome Sequence and
De Novo
Assembly of a Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
lycopersici
Isolate Collected from the Andean Region in Colombia
Authors: Yu Pei-Ling , Fulton James C. , Carmona Sandra L. , Burbano-David Diana , Barrero Luz Stella , Huguet-Tapia Jose C. , Brawner Jeremy T. , Soto-Suarez Mauricio
Published: January 2022

We report a draft genome assembly of the causal agent of tomato vascular wilt,
Fusarium oxysporum
f. sp.
lycopersici
isolate 59, obtained from the Andean region in Colombia.
Genomic Characterization and Annotation of Two Novel Bacteriophages Isolated from a Wastewater Treatment Plant in Qatar
Authors: Ramadoss Ramya , Al-Marzooqi Fajer , Shomar Basem , Ilyin Valentin Alekseevich , Vincent Annette Shoba
Published: January 2022

We report the genome sequences of
Escherichia
phage C600M2 (length, 88,162 bp; G+C content, 38.98%) and
Escherichia
phage CL1 (length, 87,820 bp; G+C content, 41.32%), which were isolated from a wastewater treatment plant in Qatar. Both
Escherichia
phage C600M2 and
Escherichia
phage CL1 genomes contain 128 protein-coding genes and 26 tRNAs.
Nearly Complete Genome Sequences of Eight Rabies Virus Strains Obtained from Domestic Carnivores in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Pyana Patient Pati , Mbilo Céline , Lannoy Julien , Bonas Simon , Luntadila Bobo , Kabongo Jean Baptiste , Ngayi Lukusa Ipos , Ntunuanga Leonard , Zinsstag Jakob , Mauti Stephanie , Dacheux Laurent
Published: January 2022

In this report, we describe eight nearly complete genome sequences of rabies virus strains collected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo from domestic carnivores in 2017 and 2018. All of them clustered into a specific phylogroup among the Africa 1b lineage in the Cosmopolitan clade.
Complete Genome Assembly of Yersinia pestis subsp.
pestis
bv. Medievalis SCPM-O-B-6530, a Proline-Dependent Strain Isolated from the Central-Caucasian High-Mountain Plague Focus in Kabardino-Balkar Republic (Russia)
Authors: Kislichkina Angelina A. , Mazurina Elizaveta M. , Platonov Mikhail E. , Skryabin Yury P. , Sizova Angelika A. , Solomentsev Viktor I. , Galkina Elena V. , Trunyakova Alexandra S. , Gapel’chenkova Tat’yana V. , Dentovskaya Svetlana V. , Bogun Alexandr G. , Anisimov Andrey P.
Published: January 2022

We report the complete genome assembly of
Yersinia pestis
subsp.
pestis
bv. Medievalis SCPM-O-B-6530, a strain belonging to the most ancient phylogenetic group (group 2.MED0) of
Y. pestis
subsp.
pestis
bv. Medievalis. This proline-dependent strain, carrying an additional plasmid (pCKF), was isolated from the Central-Caucasian high-mountain plague focus in Kabardino-Balkar Republic, Russia.
Supplemental Material: Stratigraphy of the Eocene–Oligocene Titus Canyon Formation, Death Valley, California, and Eocene extensional tectonism in the Basin and Range
Authors: Midttun N. , al. et
Published: January 2022

Text: Additional explanation of the methods used to recalculate the Ar/Ar ages of Gutenkunst (2006), Saylor and Hodges (1994), and Saylor (1991). Figure S1: Analytical plots recalculated from 40Ar/39Ar data originally produced by Gutenkunst (2006). Figure S2: Scans of a large scale map and seven isochron plots for five samples provided by B. Saylor (personal commun., 2015). Table S1: Detrital zircon U-Pb analytical data. Table S2: Zircon (U‐Th)/He analytical data. Table S3: Analytical data for 40Ar/39Ar ages of Gutenkunst (2006).
Supplemental Material: Anthropogenic impact on sediment transfer in the upper Missouri River catchment detected by detrital zircon analysis
Authors: Thomson Kelly D. , al. et
Published: January 2022

Excel spreadsheets containing sample locations and full detrital zircon U-Pb isotopic ratios and age results. Text file containing detailed description of detrital zircon U-Pb results and three supplemental figures.
Sphenopalatine ganglion block for ipsilateral shoulder pain following open pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Levin Danielle , Acquadro Martin , Cerasuolo Joseph , Gerges Frederic
Published: January 2022

A 59-year-old woman underwent an open pancreaticoduodenectomy. Thoracic patient controlled-epidural anaesthesia provided excellent incisional pain relief; however, the patient experienced intractable left shoulder pain (10/10 on the Numerical Rating Scale). To our knowledge, there is no effective established treatment for patients experiencing shoulder pain after an open pancreaticoduodenectomy. The patient’s shoulder pain did not respond to medical management with acetaminophen, ketorolac, lidocaine transdermal patch, oxycodone and hydromorphone. Then, on postoperative day 2, the acute pain service was consulted. Considering that the sphenopalatine ganglion block has been previously reported to be helpful in a number of painful conditions, including shoulder tip pain after thoracic surgery, we offered this treatment to the patient. After just one topical sphenopalatine ganglion block, using a cotton-tipped applicator, the patient’s shoulder pain entirely resolved and did not return. This is the first report of a successful treatment of intractable ipsilateral shoulder pain following an open pancreaticoduodenectomy with transnasal sphenopalatine ganglion block.
VEGFArs3025039 and biliary atresia susceptibility in Chinese population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: He Shiwei , Yang Yifan , Meng Lingdu , Chen Gong , Huang Yanlei , Shen Zhen , Dong Rui , Zheng Shan
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous studies have suggested an association between vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) rs3025039 polymorphism and biliary atresia (BA). However, this conclusion is controversial and there is no published pooled evidence of this association.

Methods

This study was conducted and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews). A thorough search was performed on databases including PubMed, Embase, and Chinese Biomedical Database up to August 2020. This study included 846 cases of BA and 2821 controls concerningVEGFArs3025039 polymorphism. We selected relevant studies based on the following inclusion criteria: (1) the study design was case–control and cohort and (2) the patients carried standard clinical diagnoses of BA, etc. The exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) patients with other related diseases, (2) lack of requisite information and (3) duplicate data. The OR (odd ratio) and the corresponding 95% CI (confidence interval) were calculated to estimate the association.

Results

This study onVEGFArs3025039 polymorphism in the Chinese population included 846 cases and 2821 controls. The results showed that there was no significant association between rs3025039 and susceptibility to BA under four genetic models. The results of the subgroup analysis were similar to the overall results.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis shows that rs3025039 was not associated with susceptibility to BA in the Chinese population. Further validation may entail additional research.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020203812.
Detecting population regulation of winter flounder from noisy data
Authors: Langan Joseph A. , Collie Jeremy S. , Minto Cóilín
Published: January 2022

Year-class size of marine fish is thought to be determined during the first year of life, with density-dependent mortality occuring during the larval or juvenile stages. However, investigations of such dynamics are often limited by data availability. To test this paradigm for winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus) in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, the abundances of 29 year classes moving through seven life stages were analyzed with a novel extension of key-factor analysis. Evidence of density dependence was identified between the egg and July young-of-the-year stages and high process-error variance was detected throughout the life cycle, suggesting year-class size is not fully determined until age-2. However, the first summer appeared to be a critical life stage for winter flounder, during which high temperatures, hypoxia, and predator abundance contributed to increased mortality rates behind a long-term population decline. Due to its general data requirements, the key-factor analysis method developed here may be applied to other aquatic populations to identify the impacts of external stressors at particular life stages and the degree to which they are compensated by density-dependent processes.
Aspects of the polynomial affine model of gravity in three dimensions
Authors: Castillo-Felisola Oscar , Orellana Oscar , Perdiguero José , Ramírez Francisca , Skirzewski Aureliano , Zerwekh Alfonso R.
Published: January 2022

The polynomial affine gravity is a model that is built up without the explicit use of a metric tensor field. In this article we reformulate the three-dimensional model and, given the decomposition of the affine connection, we analyse the consistently truncated sectors. Using the cosmological ansatz for the connection, we scan the cosmological solutions on the truncated sectors. We discuss the emergence of different kinds of metrics.
GW200105 and GW200115 are compatible with a scenario of primordial black hole binary coalescences
Authors: Wang Sai , Zhao Zhi-Chao
Published: January 2022

Two gravitational wave events, i.e. GW200105 and GW200115, were observed by the Advanced LIGO and Virgo detectors recently. In this work, we show that they can be explained by a scenario of primordial black hole binaries that are formed in the early Universe. The merger rate predicted by such a scenario could be consistent with the one estimated from LIGO and Virgo, even if primordial black holes constitute a fraction of cold dark matter. The required abundance of primordial black holes is compatible with the existing upper limits from microlensing, caustic crossing and cosmic microwave background observations.
Chiral dynamics with confinement versus the standard chiral theory
Authors: Simonov Yu. A.
Published: January 2022

Chiral dynamics is investigated using the chiral confining Lagrangian (CCL), previously derived from QCD with confinement interaction. Based on the calculations of the quark condensate, which is defined entirely by confinement in the zero quark mass limit, one can assert that chiral symmetry breaking is predetermined by confinement. It is shown that CCL retains all basic relations of the standard chiral theory but enables one to include quark degrees of freedom in the CCL. The expansion of the CCL provides the Gell–Mann–Oakes–Renner (GMOR) relations and the masses and decay constants of all chiral mesons, including [Formula: see text]. For the latter, one needs to define a nonchiral component due to confinement, while the orthogonality condition defines the wave functions and the eigenvalues. The resulting masses and decay constants of all chiral mesons are obtained in good agreement with the experimental and lattice data.
Theoretical fabrication of subwavelength structures by surface plasmon interference based on complementary grating
Authors: Wang Xiangxian , Ren Yaqian , Jia Tianxu , Su Yingwen , Qi Yunping , Wen Xiaolei
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a surface plasmon interference lithography technique based on the complementary grating, which comprises silicon gratings and complementary aluminum grating masks, for fabricating subwavelength structures. In this theoretical study, the optimal parameters of the complementary grating structure were determined using the reflectance spectrum. The optical field distributions of one- and two-dimensional subwavelength structures were obtained using the finite-difference time-domain method and rotation-related formulas. The results of numerical evaluations show that a one-dimensional periodic structure with a half-pitch resolution of 60.5 nm (approximately [Formula: see text]/6.7) can be fabricated. In addition, subwavelength structures can be diversified using different rotation methods to expose the photolithography samples, such as square dot arrays and quasi-hexagonal closely packed structures. The proposed method combines surface plasmon interference with sample rotation, thereby enabling fabrication of abundant subwavelength structures.
Coloniality, reproduction, and the climate crisis, or
Authors: de Oliveira Martins Luiza Prado
Published: January 2022

This forum focuses on the topic of coloniality, investigating the ways in which it shapes the contemporary world. We will look at how colonial structures of power shape the development of new technologies, as well as emergent manifestations of anti-colonial resistance.
--- Luiza Prado de Oliveira Martins, Editor
Innovative Treatments Enhancing the Functionality of Gut Microbiota to Improve Quality and Microbiological Safety of Foods of Animal Origin
Authors: Koyun Osman Y. , Callaway Todd R. , Nisbet David J. , Anderson Robin C.
Published: January 2022

The gastrointestinal tract, or gut, microbiota is a microbial community containing a variety of microorganisms colonizing throughout the gut that plays a crucial role in animal health, growth performance, and welfare. The gut microbiota is closely associated with the quality and microbiological safety of foods and food products originating from animals. The gut microbiota of the host can be modulated and enhanced in ways that improve the quality and safety of foods of animal origin. Probiotics—also known as direct-fed microbials—competitive exclusion cultures, prebiotics, and synbiotics have been utilized to achieve this goal. Reducing foodborne pathogen colonization in the gut prior to slaughter and enhancing the chemical, nutritional, or sensory characteristics of foods (e.g., meat, milk, and eggs) are two of many positive outcomes derived from the use of these competitive enhancement–based treatments in food-producing animals.
Prenatal and Postnatal Pharmacotherapy in Down Syndrome: The Search to Prevent or Ameliorate Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Bartesaghi Renata , Vicari Stefano , Mobley William C.
Published: January 2022

Those with Down syndrome (DS)—trisomy for chromosome 21—are routinely impacted by cognitive dysfunction and behavioral challenges in children and adults and Alzheimer's disease in older adults. No proven treatments specifically address these cognitive or behavioral changes. However, advances in the establishment of rodent models and human cell models promise to support development of such treatments. A research agenda that emphasizes the identification of overexpressed genes that contribute demonstrably to abnormalities in cognition and behavior in model systems constitutes a rational next step. Normalizing expression of such genes may usher in an era of successful treatments applicable across the life span for those with DS.
Social Capital, Black Social Mobility, and Health Disparities
Authors: Gilbert Keon L. , Ransome Yusuf , Dean Lorraine T. , DeCaille Jerell , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: January 2022

This review aims to delineate the role of structural racism in the formation and accumulation of social capital and to describe how social capital is leveraged and used differently between Black and White people as a response to the conditions created by structural racism. We draw on critical race theory in public health praxis and restorative justice concepts to reimagine a race-conscious social capital agenda. We document how American capitalism has injured Black people and Black communities’ unique construction of forms of social capital to combat systemic oppression. The article proposes an agenda that includes communal restoration that recognizes forms of social capital appreciated and deployed by Black people in the United States that can advance health equity and eliminate health disparities. Developing a race-conscious social capital framing that is inclusive of and guided by Black community members and academics is critical to the implementation of solutions that achieve racial and health equity and socioeconomic mobility.
John Goodenough and the Many Lives of Transition-Metal Oxides
Authors: Tranquada J. M.
Published: January 2022

In honor of John Goodenough’s centennial birthday, I discuss some of his insights into magnetism and the role of mixed valence in transition-metal oxides. His ideas form an important part of the continuing evolution of our understanding of these fascinating materials with a wide range of technologically-important functionalities. In particular, I will mention connections to phenomena such as colossal magnetoresistance, enhanced thermopower, and high-temperature superconductivity.
Voltammetric Amitriptyline Determination Using a Metal-Free Electrode Based on Phosphorus-Doped Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Sanguarnsak Chanakarn , Promsuwan Kiattisak , Saichanapan Jenjira , Soleh Asamee , Saisahas Kasrin , Phua Cheng Ho , Limbut Warakorn
Published: January 2022

A new electrode material of phosphorus-doped multi-walled carbon nanotubes (P-MWCNTs) was developed as an electrochemical sensing element for amitriptyline (AMT). P-MWCNTs were hydrothermally synthesized and drop casted on a glassy carbon electrode (P-MWCNTs/GCE). The P-MWCNTs were morphologically, chemically and structurally characterized. The electrochemical characteristics of the P-MWCNTs/GCE were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and adsorptive stripping voltammetry (AdSV). The P-MWCNTs increased electron transfer at the GCE and the electrochemical conductivity of the electrode. Electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of AMT was excellent. In the optimal voltammetric condition, the P-MWCNTs/GCE produced linear ranges of 0.50 to 10 μg ml−1 and 10 to 40 μg ml−1. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.15 μg ml−1 and 0.52 μg ml−1, respectively. The developed sensor displayed good repeatability, reproducibility and specificity. The sensor successfully quantified AMT in pharmaceutical tablets, giving results consistent with spectrophotometric analysis. The sensor achieved recoveries from 98 ± 2% to 101 ± 5% from spiked urine samples. The proposed sensor could be applied to determine AMT in pharmaceutical and urine samples for forensic toxicology.
Room-Temperature Preparation of Ta Ions-Containing Ionic Liquid and its Vapor Deposition toward Ta-Oxide Film Coating
Authors: Hozuki Nana , Kaminaga Kenichi , Maruyama Shingo , Shiga Daisuke , Kumigashira Hiroshi , Takato Hidetaka , Kondo Michio , Matsumoto Yuji
Published: January 2022

Ta ions-containing solutions, which are brown in color with no precipitation, were successfully prepared through an electroelution process with ionic liquid (IL). An as-delivered Ta metal plate covered with a passivation oxide film could be easily eluted even at room temperature by simply applying an anodic potential of, e.g. +2.2 V vs Ag in [Bmim][PF6] IL. According to the quantity of electric charge required for oxidation of Ta, most Ta ions in the IL were suggested to be in an oxidation state of +5, which was also confirmed by X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS). Ta ions in IL were found to thermally evaporate together with IL molecules by heating in a vacuum, forming a deposit of the Ta ions-containing IL on a substrate. The Ta concentrations in the deposits were reduced uniquely by about one order of magnitude from those in the original bulk source through the evaporation process under the present conditions. Furthermore, a possibility of the formation of thin film-like Ta oxide from such a Ta ions-containing IL deposit and its bulk droplet prepared on substrates by annealing in air at 1000 °C will be discussed.
Communication—Electrodeposition of Indium Directly on Silicon
Authors: Neumann Anica N. , Schneble Olivia D. , Warren Emily L.
Published: January 2022

Direct electrodeposition of indium onto silicon paves the way for advances in microelectronics, photovoltaics, and optoelectronics. Indium is generally electrodeposited onto silicon utilizing a physically or thermally deposited metallic seed layer. Eliminating this layer poses benefits in microelectronics by reducing resistive interfaces and in vapor-liquid-solid conversion to III-V material by allowing direct contact to the single-crystal silicon substrate for epitaxial conversion. We investigated conditions to directly electrodeposit indium onto n-type Si(100). We show that a two-step galvanostatic plating at low temperatures can consistently produce smooth, continuous films of indium over large areas, in bump morphologies, and conformally into inverted pyramids.
Design of Boosted Multilevel DC-DC Converter for Solar Photovoltaic System
Authors: Uthirasamy R. , Chinnaiyan V. Kumar , Vishnukumar S. , Karthick Alagar , Mohanavel V. , Subramaniam Umashankar , Muhibbullah M.
Published: January 2022

Integration of renewable energy sources to the grid-connected system has influenced scholarly research in recent times to evolve solutions for power electronic conversion. Particularly, solar photovoltaic (SPV), being a resource available throughout the year, demands needful research to meet the demand for industrial applications. To facilitate SPV, multilevel inverters (MLIs) and cascaded H-bridge inverters (CHBIs) are proposed in the literature to meet the power requirement. However, these circuits suffer from efficiency loss, economic aspects of DC sources usage, and switching losses. Hence, in this research, a new power converter topology is projected to improve the overall efficiency of SPV systems. Further, a three-level approach involving (i) SPV Panel-Temperature Reduction (SPV-PTR) Setup, (ii) Boost Multilevel Direct Current Link Converter (BMLDCLC), and (iii) use of effective snubber modules (SM) are effectively handled to promote the industry readiness of the proposed system. From a detailed system investigation, it is seen that the proposed arrangement has minimized the power loss to ensure better quality in output. Furthermore, the software-based results and hardware setup of the planned comprehensive converter have shown promising results in terms of (i) reduced voltage stress, (ii) reduced total harmonic distortion (THD) without filter component, and (iii) reduced power loss. It is observed that the experimental setup has reported a 12.9% of excess heat removal, 5% decrease in harmonics, and 33% switch reduction than the existing MLI schemes. In addition, the proposed setup is suggested to apply for industrial purposes indicate its efficacy to be a solution in real time.
An Empirical Study on the Growth of Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity in the Huanghuai River Economic Zone by Big Data Computing
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Wei Jinghong , Wang Ying , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: January 2022

Facing the new form and situation of the Huaihe Economic Zone, it is of great significance to analyze the sources of growth and the intrinsic mechanism of the green total factor productivity of its economic-ecological system, to grasp the spatial and temporal characteristics of green total factor productivity, and to study the influence of each factor on green total factor productivity to achieve sustainable economic development in the Huaihe Economic Zone. Based on the clarification of economic growth theory, green economy theory, carbon cycle theory, and green total factor productivity theory, this paper identifies and discusses the limitation that the existing research literature often ignores the endogenous role of carbon sinks when measuring green total factor productivity. Then, the green total factor productivity of Huaihe Economic Zone based on carbon cycle from 2004 to 2017 is measured using the superefficient nonradial SBM model. Combined with the GML productivity index, it is decomposed into technical progress and technical efficiency and analyzed in comparison with the green total factor productivity without considering ecological purification capacity (carbon sink) from the perspective of time and space. Finally, the spatial Durbin model is used to analyze the effects of seven variables, including the level of economic development, environmental regulation, R&D level, and openness to the outside world, on green total factor productivity in the Huaihe Economic Zone, and to analyze the direct and indirect effects of each variable on green total factor productivity. TFP based on expected output carbon sink and GDP overall outperforms TFP based on expected output GDP only, mainly because the growth of technical efficiency is underestimated when carbon sink is not considered. Technical efficiency and technological progress are equally important for the growth of TFP in an eco-economic perspective. It is of great practical significance for both the comprehensive understanding of the green total factor productivity level and the improvement path of the ecosystem and the coordinated and sustainable development of the Huaihe Economic Zone.
A Novel Autophagy‐Related Prognostic Risk Model and a Nomogram for Survival Prediction of Oral Cancer Patients
Authors: Fei Hongjun , Chen Xiongming
Published: January 2022

Background. This study is aimed at constructing a risk signature to predict survival outcomes of ORCA patients. Methods. We identified differentially expressed autophagy‐related genes (DEARGs) based on the RNA sequencing data in the TCGA database; then, four independent survival‐related ARGs were identified to construct an autophagy‐associated signature for survival prediction of ORCA patients. The validity and robustness of the prognostic model were validated by clinicopathological data and survival data. Subsequently, four independent prognostic DEARGs that composed the model were evaluated individually. Results. The expressions of 232 autophagy‐related genes (ARGs) in 127 ORCA and 13 control tissues were compared, and 36 DEARGs were filtered out. We performed functional enrichment analysis and constructed protein–protein interaction network for 36 DEARGs. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were adopted for searching prognostic ARGs, and an autophagy‐associated signature for ORCA patients was constructed. Eventually, 4 desirable independent survival‐related ARGs (WDR45, MAPK9, VEGFA, and ATIC) were confirmed and comprised the prognostic model. We made use of multiple ways to verify the accuracy of the novel autophagy‐related signature for survival evaluation, such as receiver‐operator characteristic curve, Kaplan–Meier plotter, and clinicopathological correlational analyses. Four independent prognostic DEARGs that formed the model were also associated with the prognosis of ORCA patients. Conclusions. The autophagy‐related risk model can evaluate OS for ORCA patients independently since it is accurate and stable. Four prognostic ARGs that composed the model can be studied deeply for target treatment.
Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Cartilage Regeneration Applications
Authors: Russo E. , Caprnda M. , Kruzliak P. , Conaldi P. G. , Borlongan C. V. , La Rocca G.
Published: January 2022

Chondropathies are increasing worldwide, but effective treatments are currently lacking. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSCs) transplantation represents a promising approach to counteract the degenerative and inflammatory environment characterizing those pathologies, such as osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Umbilical cord- (UC-) MSCs gained increasing interest due to their multilineage differentiation potential, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties as well as higher proliferation rates, abundant supply along with no risks for the donor compared to adult MSCs. In addition, UC-MSCs are physiologically adapted to survive in an ischemic and nutrient-poor environment as well as to produce an extracellular matrix (ECM) similar to that of the cartilage. All these characteristics make UC-MSCs a pivotal source for a stem cell-based treatment of chondropathies. In this review, the regenerative potential of UC-MSCs for the treatment of cartilage diseases will be discussed focusing on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies.
Estimating the Proportion of Asymptomatic COVID‐19 Cases in an Italian Region with Intermediate Incidence during the First Pandemic Wave: An Observational Retrospective Study
Authors: Martinelli Domenico , Fortunato Francesca , Mazzilli Sara , Bisceglia Lucia , Lopalco Pier Luigi , Prato Rosa
Published: January 2022

Early in the COVID‐19 pandemic, asymptomatic transmission represented an important challenge for controlling the spread of SARS‐CoV‐2 through the traditional public health strategies. Further understanding of the contribution of asymptomatic infections to SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission has been of crucial importance for pandemic control. We conducted a retrospective epidemiological study to characterize asymptomatic COVID‐19 cases occurred in the Apulia region, Italy, during the first epidemic wave of COVID‐19 outbreak (February 29‐July 7, 2020). We analyzed data collected in a regional platform developed to manage surveillance activities, namely, investigation and follow‐up of cases and contacts, contact tracing, and laboratory and clinical data collection. We included all asymptomatic cases that were laboratory‐confirmed during the appropriate follow‐up, defined as persons infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 who did not develop symptoms/clinical signs of the disease. Between February 29 and July 7, 2020, a total of 4,536 cases were diagnosed with COVID‐19 among 193,757 tests performed. The group of persons with asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection consisted of 903 cases; the asymptomatic proportion was 19.9% (95% CI: 18.8‐21.1%); this decreased with increasing age (OR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.83‐0.96; p = 0.001), in individuals with underlying comorbidities (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.41‐0.73; p < 0.001), and in males (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.54‐0.87; p = 0.002). The median asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA positive period was 19 days (IQR: 14‐31) and the cumulative proportion of persons with resolution of infection 14 days after the first positive PCR test was 74%. As the public health community is debating the question of whether asymptomatic and late spreaders could sustain virus transmission in the communities, such cases present unique opportunities to gain insight into SARS‐CoV‐2 adaptation to human host. This has important implications for future COVID‐19 surveillance and prevention.
Superconvergence of Semidiscrete Splitting Positive Definite Mixed Finite Elements for Hyperbolic Optimal Control Problems
Authors: Hua Yuchun , Tang Yuelong
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we consider semidiscrete splitting positive definite mixed finite element methods for optimal control problems governed by hyperbolic equations with integral constraints. The state and costate are approximated by the lowest order Raviart-Thomas mixed rectangular finite element, and the control is approximated by piecewise constant functions. We derive some convergence and superconvergence results for the control, the state and the adjoint state. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate our theoretical results.