bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four-dimensional imaging of lattice dynamics using ab-initio simulation
Authors: Rana Navdeep , Roy Aditya Prasad , Bansal Dipanshu , Dixit Gopal
Published: January 2021

Time-resolved mapping of lattice dynamics in real- and momentum-space is essential to better understand several ubiquitous phenomena such as heat transport, displacive phase transition, thermal conductivity, and many more. In this regard, time-resolved diffraction and microscopy methods are employed to image the induced lattice dynamics within a pump–probe configuration. In this work, we demonstrate that inelastic scattering methods, with the aid of theoretical simulation, are competent to provide similar information as one could obtain from the time-resolved diffraction and imaging measurements. To illustrate the robustness of the proposed method, our simulated result of lattice dynamics in germanium is in excellent agreement with the time-resolved x-ray diffuse scattering measurement performed using x-ray free-electron laser. For a given inelastic scattering data in energy and momentum space, the proposed method is useful to image in-situ lattice dynamics under different environmental conditions of temperature, pressure, and magnetic field. Moreover, the technique will profoundly impact where time-resolved diffraction within the pump–probe setup is not feasible, for instance, in inelastic neutron scattering.
Putative second hit rare genetic variants in families with seemingly GBA-associated Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Aslam Muhammad , Kandasamy Nirosiya , Ullah Anwar , Paramasivam Nagarajan , Öztürk Mehmet Ali , Naureen Saima , Arshad Abida , Badshah Mazhar , Khan Kafaitullah , Wajid Muhammad , Abbasi Rashda , Ilyas Muhammad , Eils Roland , Schlesner Matthias , Wade Rebecca C. , Ahmad Nafees , von Engelhardt Jakob
Published: January 2021

Rare variants in the beta-glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA1) are common genetic risk factors for alpha synucleinopathy, which often manifests clinically as GBA-associated Parkinson’s disease (GBA-PD). Clinically, GBA-PD closely mimics idiopathic PD, but it may present at a younger age and often aggregates in families. Most carriers of GBA variants are, however, asymptomatic. Moreover, symptomatic PD patients without GBA variant have been reported in families with seemingly GBA-PD. These observations obscure the link between GBA variants and PD pathogenesis and point towards a role for unidentified additional genetic and/or environmental risk factors or second hits in GBA-PD. In this study, we explored whether rare genetic variants may be additional risk factors for PD in two families segregating the PD-associated GBA1 variants c.115+1G>A (ClinVar ID: 93445) and p.L444P (ClinVar ID: 4288). Our analysis identified rare genetic variants of the HSP70 co-chaperone DnaJ homolog subfamily B member 6 (DNAJB6) and lysosomal protein prosaposin (PSAP) as additional factors possibly influencing PD risk in the two families. In comparison to the wild-type proteins, variant DNAJB6 and PSAP proteins show altered functions in the context of cellular alpha-synuclein homeostasis when expressed in reporter cells. Furthermore, the segregation pattern of the rare variants in the genes encoding DNAJB6 and PSAP indicated a possible association with PD in the respective families. The occurrence of second hits or additional PD cosegregating rare variants has important implications for genetic counseling in PD families with GBA1 variant carriers and for the selection of PD patients for GBA targeted treatments.
Parkinson’s disease with restless legs syndrome—an in vivo corneal confocal microscopy study
Authors: Andréasson Mattias , Lagali Neil , Badian Reza A. , Utheim Tor Paaske , Scarpa Fabio , Colonna Alessia , Allgeier Stephan , Bartschat Andreas , Köhler Bernd , Mikut Ralf , Reichert Klaus-Martin , Solders Göran , Samuelsson Kristin , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Svenningsson Per
Published: January 2021

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) has been suggested as a trigger of restless legs syndrome (RLS). An increased prevalence of peripheral neuropathy has been demonstrated in Parkinson’s disease (PD). We aimed to investigate, in a cross-sectional manner, whether SFN is overrepresented in PD patients with concurrent RLS relative to PD patients without RLS, using in vivo corneal confocal microscopy (IVCCM) and quantitative sensory testing (QST) as part of small fiber assessment. Study participants comprised of age- and sex-matched PD patients with (n = 21) and without RLS (n = 21), and controls (n = 13). Diagnosis of RLS was consolidated with the sensory suggested immobilization test. Assessments included nerve conduction studies (NCS), Utah Early Neuropathy Scale (UENS), QST, and IVCCM, with automated determination of corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL) and branch density (CNBD) from wide-area mosaics of the subbasal nerve plexus. Plasma neurofilament light (p-NfL) was determined as a measure of axonal degeneration. No significant differences were found between groups when comparing CNFL (p = 0.81), CNBD (p = 0.92), NCS (p = 0.82), and QST (minimum p = 0.54). UENS scores, however, differed significantly (p = 0.001), with post-hoc pairwise testing revealing higher scores in both PD groups relative to controls (p = 0.018 and p = 0.001). Analysis of all PD patients (n = 42) revealed a correlation between the duration of l-dopa therapy and CNBD (ρ = −0.36, p = 0.022), and p-NfL correlated with UENS (ρ = 0.35, p = 0.026) and NCS (ρ = −0.51, p = 0.001). Small and large fiber neuropathy do not appear to be associated with RLS in PD. Whether peripheral small and/or large fiber pathology associates with central neurodegeneration in PD merits further longitudinal studies.
Separation of epigallocatechin gallate and epicatechin gallate from tea polyphenols by macroporous resin and crystallization
Authors: Wang Li , Huang Xin , Jing Huijuan , Ye Xin , Jiang Chao , Shao Jiajia , Ma Chaoyang , Wang Hongxin
Published: January 2021

Schematic diagram of simultaneous separation and purification of EGCG and ECG.
Effect of antioxidant supplementation on skeletal muscle and metabolic profile in aging mice
Authors: Tsukamoto-Sen Sakuka , Kawakami Shinpei , Maruki-Uchida Hiroko , Ito Ryouichi , Matsui Naoko , Komiya Yuki , Mita Yoshitaka , Morisasa Mizuki , Goto-Inoue Naoko , Furuichi Yasuro , Manabe Yasuko , Morita Minoru , Fujii Nobuharu L.
Published: January 2021

Chronic antioxidant (piceatannol or enzymatically modified isoquercitrin) supplementation improved metabolic profile and locomotor activity in aging mice.
In vitroandin vivomodels for anti-amyloidosis nanomedicines
Authors: Kakinen Aleksandr , Javed Ibrahim , Davis Thomas P. , Ke Pu Chun
Published: January 2021

Impactful research in nanomedicine depends upon the adequate use of cellular and animal models. Here we systematically review and evaluate thein vitroandin vivomodels which have enabled the development of anti-amyloidosis nanomedicines.
Controlled ring-opening polymerization of N-(3-tert-butoxy-3-oxopropyl) glycine derived N-carboxyanhydrides towards well-defined peptoid-based polyacids
Authors: Barrett Bailee N. , Sternhagen Garrett L. , Zhang Donghui
Published: January 2021

Polypeptoids bearing carboxylic acid groups on the N-substituent are useful building blocks for the construction of peptidomimetic supramolecular assemblies with stimuli-responsive properties.
Morphology control of Cu and Cu2O through electrodeposition on conducting polymer electrodes
Authors: Sun Yan Chun , Sun Chun Yu , Chen Zhong Xiang , Wang Peng , Wang Hai Tao , Yao Ming Zhu , Wu Song , Xu Ping
Published: January 2021

Here we demonstrate the morphology control of Cu and Cu2O through electrodeposition on conducting polymer surface.
Polarity-active NIR probes with strong two-photon absorption and ultrahigh binding affinity of insulin amyloid fibrils
Authors: Li Li , Lv Zheng , Man Zhongwei , Xu Zhenzhen , Wei YuLing , Geng Hua , Fu Hongbing
Published: January 2021

A polarity-active NIR probe based on the transformation from the CT state to the LE state for two-photon imaging of amyloid fibrils.
Spontaneous emergence of membrane-forming protoamphiphiles from a lipid–amino acid mixture under wet–dry cycles
Authors: Joshi Manesh Prakash , Sawant Anupam A. , Rajamani Sudha
Published: January 2021

Synthesis of lipoamino acids via ester–amide exchange under prebiotically plausible wet-dry cycling conditions that results in vesicles at acidic pH.
Conformational analysis by UV spectroscopy: the decisive contribution of environment-induced electronic Stark effects
Authors: Donon Jeremy , Habka Sana , Mons Michel , Brenner Valérie , Gloaguen Eric
Published: January 2021

The correlation between experimental electronic transitions and calculated electric fields leads to precise conformational assignments and opens up the possibility of interpreting electronic spectra in a quantitative manner at the wavenumber scale.
Discovery and biosynthesis of guanipiperazine from a NRPS-like pathway
Authors: Shi Jing , Xu Xiang , Liu Pei Yi , Hu Yi Ling , Zhang Bo , Jiao Rui Hua , Bashiri Ghader , Tan Ren Xiang , Ge Hui Ming
Published: January 2021

Genome mining of a NRPS-like gene cluster led to the identification of two novel alkaloids with antimicrobial activity. This work reveals the huge potential of NRPS-like biosynthetic gene clusters in the discovery of novel natural products.
The Complexity of Health Disparities: More Than Just Black–White Differences
Authors: Ellis Charles , Jacobs Molly
Published: January 2021

Health disparities have once again moved to the forefront of America's consciousness with the recent significant observation of dramatically higher death rates among African Americans with COVID-19 when compared to White Americans. Health disparities have a long history in the United States, yet little consideration has been given to their impact on the clinical outcomes in the rehabilitative health professions such as speech-language pathology/audiology (SLP/A). Consequently, it is unclear how the absence of a careful examination of health disparities in fields like SLP/A impacts the clinical outcomes desired or achieved. The purpose of this tutorial is to examine the issue of health disparities in relationship to SLP/A. This tutorial includes operational definitions related to health disparities and a review of the social determinants of health that are the underlying cause of such disparities. The tutorial concludes with a discussion of potential directions for the study of health disparities in SLP/A to identify strategies to close the disparity gap in health-related outcomes that currently exists.
Systems of Oppression in Geriatric Clinical Service Delivery
Authors: Kendall Diane L.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to extend the concepts of systems of oppression in higher education to the clinical setting where communication and swallowing services are delivered to geriatric persons, and to begin a conversation as to how clinicians can disrupt oppression in their workplace.

Conclusions

As clinical service providers to geriatric persons, it is imperative to understand systems of oppression to affect meaningful change. As trained speech-language pathologists and audiologists, we hold power and privilege in the medical institutions in which we work and are therefore obligated to do the hard work. Suggestions offered in this article are only the start of this important work.
Matter accretion in metal-poor stars down to extremely metal-poor stars and the lithium problem
Authors: Deal M. , Richard O. , Vauclair S.
Published: January 2021

Context. The formation and evolution of light elements in the Universe act as important cosmological constraints. It has long been assumed that the oldest stars of the Galaxy display the primordial lithium abundance in their outer layers, although studies of stellar physics have proven that this abundance must have decreased with time. The primordial Li abundance deduced from the observations of the cosmic background is, indeed, larger than the maximum observed in these stars. Recent observations have given evidence of a large Li abundance dispersion in very metal-poor stars. Many of these stars are carbon-rich, that is, the so-called carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) stars. A large number of them also present overabundances of s process elements (CEMP-s).

Aims. We address the general question of the observed abundances in metal-poor stars and we focus our study on the case of CEMP-s stars. We study how the accretion of the wind of stellar companions, especially asymptotic giant branch stars, modifies the element abundances of metal-poor stars and, in particular, lithium, taking into account the stellar structure and the hydrodynamic processes that take place after accretion. We compare the results with the observations of lithium and heavier elements in these old stars on the main sequence.

Methods. We use the Montréal/Montpellier stellar evolution code, which includes atomic diffusion and thermohaline convection, to compute the internal structure of the proto-CEMP-s stars and their evolution, from [Fe/H] = −2.31 down to [Fe/H] = −5.45. We study a number of cases that vary according to the masses of the stars, their ages, metallicities, and the distances to their respective companions.

Results. We show that the observations of lithium dispersion that is associated (or not) with carbon enrichment are well accounted for in terms of accretion on to the metal-poor stars of the winds of stellar companions, with accreted masses smaller than those considered in previous studies. The derived primordial value is in accordance with the cosmological results.
Formation and dynamics of water clouds on temperate sub-Neptunes: the example of K2-18b
Authors: Charnay B. , Blain D. , Bézard B. , Leconte J. , Turbet M. , Falco A.
Published: January 2021

Context. Hubble Space Telescope (HST) spectroscopic transit observations of the temperate sub-Neptune K2-18b were interpreted as the presence of water vapour with potential water clouds. 1D modelling studies also predict the formation of water clouds in K2-18b’s atmosphere in some conditions. However, such models cannot predict the cloud cover, which is driven by atmospheric dynamics and thermal contrasts, and thus neither can they predict the real impact of clouds on spectra.

Aims. The main goal of this study is to understand the formation, distribution, and observational consequences of water clouds on K2-18b and other temperate sub-Neptunes.

Methods. We simulated the atmospheric dynamics, water cloud formation, and spectra of K2-18b for a H2-dominated atmosphere using a 3D general circulation model. We analysed the impact of atmospheric composition (with metallicity from 1× solar to 1000× solar), concentration of cloud condensation nuclei, and planetary rotation rate.

Results. Assuming that K2-18b has a synchronous rotation, we show that the atmospheric circulation in the upper atmosphere essentially corresponds to a symmetric day-to-night circulation with very efficient heat redistribution. This regime preferentially leads to cloud formation at the sub-stellar point or at the terminator. Clouds form at metallicity ≥100× solar with relatively large particles (radius = 30–450 μm). At 100–300× solar metallicity, the cloud fraction at the terminators is small with a limited impact on transit spectra. At 1000× solar metallicity, very thick clouds form at the terminator, greatly flattening the transit spectrum. The cloud distribution appears very sensitive to the concentration of cloud condensation nuclei and to the planetary rotation rate, although the impact on transit spectra is modest in the near-infrared. Fitting HST transit data with our simulated spectra suggests a metallicity of ~100–300× solar, which is consistent with the mass-metallicity trend of giant planets in the Solar System. In addition, we found that the cloud fraction at the terminator can be highly variable in some conditions, leading to a potential variability in transit spectra that is correlated with spectral windows. This effect could be common on cloudy exoplanets and could be detectable with multiple transit observations. Finally, the complex cloud dynamics revealed in this study highlight the inherent 3D nature of clouds shaped by couplings between microphysics, radiation, and atmospheric circulation.
Water maser variability in a high-mass YSO outburst
Authors: Hirota Tomoya , Cesaroni Riccardo , Moscadelli Luca , Sugiyama Koichiro , Burns Ross A. , Kim Jungha , Sunada Kazuyoshi , Yonekura Yoshinori
Published: January 2021

Context. Clarifying the relationship between mass accretion and ejection history is one of the key issues in understanding high-mass star formation processes.

Aims. We aim to investigate the possible relationship between the mass accretion burst event in mid-June 2015 and the jet ejection in the high-mass protostar S255 NIRS 3.

Methods. The Very Long Baseline Interferometer (VLBI) monitoring observations of the 22 GHz H2O masers were carried out using VLBI Exploration of Radio Astrometry (VERA) to reveal the 3D velocity and spatial structure of the outflow/jet traced by the H2O masers in S255 NIRS 3. In addition, we conducted follow-up observations of the submillimeter continuum and the 321 GHz H2O masers with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) at Band 7.

Results. We successfully measured the proper motions of the 22 GHz H2O masers associated with a bipolar outflow. The structure is almost the same as was observed in 2005 and 2010. The expansion velocity of the blueshifted bow shock traced by the 22 GHz H2O masers was measured to be 28 km s−1, corresponding to a dynamical timescale of 60 yr. The direction of the maser outflow is slightly tilted compared with the radio jet, which could suggest a more recent ejection episode during the accretion burst event. The total flux density of the 22 GHz H2O masers gradually increases from the beginning of the VLBI monitoring in early 2017 and becomes almost constant in subsequent single-dish monitoring in 2018. The brightening of the H2O masers is more prominent in the northeast outflow lobe. For the first time, we revealed extended H2O maser emission at 22 GHz in a star-forming region, which is partly resolved out by VERA and even by the most extended Very Large Array (VLA) configurations. We find that the flux variation of such an extended component is similar to that of the unresolved maser emission. The ALMA Band 7 continuum emission did not show significant variations compared with the previous observations performed five months before. We mapped the 321 GHz H2O masers in S255 NIRS 3 providing the fourth example, for this maser, of the spatial distribution in a high-mass star-forming region.

Conclusions. We conclude that the bow shock structure traced by the 22 GHz H2O maser features is unlikely to originate at the interface between the radio jet powered by the recent accretion outburst and the surrounding medium. The brightening of the 22 GHz H2O masers could be due to radiative excitation by photons form the (declining) infrared (IR) outburst escaping along the cavity created by the newly ejected material. The lower ratio of the 22 GHz/321 GHz maser luminosity in the blueshifted bow shock suggests a temperature ( >1000 K), higher than for the other maser features in this region.
Starletℓ1-norm for weak lensing cosmology
Authors: Ajani Virginia , Starck Jean-Luc , Pettorino Valeria
Published: January 2021

We present a new summary statistic for weak lensing observables, higher than second order, suitable for extracting non-Gaussian cosmological information and inferring cosmological parameters. We name this statistic the ‘starletℓ1-norm’ as it is computed via the sum of the absolute values of the starlet (wavelet) decomposition coefficients of a weak lensing map. In comparison to the state-of-the-art higher-order statistics – weak lensing peak counts and minimum counts, or the combination of the two – theℓ1-norm provides a fast multi-scale calculation of the full void and peak distribution, avoiding the problem of defining what a peak is and what a void is: theℓ1-norm carries the information encoded in all pixels of the map, not just the ones in local maxima and minima. We show its potential by applying it to the weak lensing convergence maps provided by theMassiveNussimulations to get constraints on the sum of neutrino masses, the matter density parameter, and the amplitude of the primordial power spectrum. We find that, in an ideal setting without further systematics, the starletℓ1-norm remarkably outperforms commonly used summary statistics, such as the power spectrum or the combination of peak and void counts, in terms of constraining power, representing a promising new unified framework to simultaneously account for the information encoded in peak counts and voids. We find that the starletℓ1-norm outperforms the power spectrum by 72% onMν, 60% on Ωm, and 75% onAsfor theEuclid-like setting considered; it also improves upon the state-of-the-art combination of peaks and voids for a single smoothing scale by 24% onMν, 50% on Ωm, and 24% onAs.
Universalism of inhibitors against hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide corrosion of carbon steel
Authors: Vigdorovich Vladimir , Tsygankova Liudmila , Shel Natalia , Alshikha Nedal
Published: January 2021

The universality of inhibitors is understood as their ability to inhibit several types of corrosion attack: hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide corrosion, hydrogen diffusion into metal, development of sulfate-reducing and other types of bacteria, negative impact on the mechanical properties of metals. Indicators of universalism of new inhibitor have been studied. Producer of the inhibiting compositions is Limited Liability Company «INCORGAZ» (S-Petersburg, Russia). The efficacy of the inhibitor in the concentration of 25 - 200 mg/L has been studied with respect to carbon steel in a highly mineralized chloride medium (pH= 6) and NACE medium (5 g/L NaCl, 0.25 g/L CH3COOH, pH =3.5) containing H2S (50-400 mg/L) and CO2 (1at) separately and together. The bactericidal properties of the inhibitor were studied with respect to sulfate-reducing bacteria in the Postgate medium. The investigations were carried out by the methods of linear polarization resistance, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, gravimetry, potentiodynamic polarization. The protective effectiveness of the inhibitor reaches 80% in the presence of CO2 and 90% in hydrogen sulphide environments. The inhibitor repeatedly reduces the number of sulfate-reducing bacteria and the production of biogenic hydrogen sulfide and inhibits the diffusion of hydrogen into steel.
Intellectualizing analysis and assessment of statistical data on field pipeline failures due to internal corrosion
Authors: Karmachev Denis P.
Published: January 2021

The paper presents some results of a study meant to create an expert system used to select a material design and method of internal corrosion protection for field pipelines at the design stage. The author has performed an intellectual analysis of operating statistical data on field pipeline failures. The first part of the paper describes the initial sample and the exploratory analysis performed. The second and the third parts describe the processes of creating and assessing a classifier based on the Random Forest algorithm. To assess the quality of the classifiers, the author has calculated the shares of correct answers in the algorithm (accuracy), precision and recall, as well as the F1-score. The author makes a conclusion about satisfactory values of quality metrics and outlines areas for further research.
Investigation of increased corrosion wear of heat exchange equipment pipes
Authors: Kiselev Oleg , Polikarpov Dmitry , Demidova Anna
Published: January 2021

The article discusses the stages of research to determine the possible causes of increased corrosion wear of tube bundles of heat exchangers. The most typical types of damage to heat exchanger pipes are shown, depending on the operating conditions. Recommendations aimed at reducing the corrosion wear of pipe bundles for typical operating conditions at oil refining enterprises.
Vinasse as Cultivation Medium of Chlorella sp. to Produce Poly–Hydroxy Butyrate in Various Limited Low–Cost Primary Nutrient
Authors: Prima Indra Budianto Gregorius , Mukti Wibowo Yari , Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Widayat Widayat , Arfian Anditya Sudjarwo Wisnu
Published: January 2021

Vinasse is ethanol wastewater that still contains nutrients. It can be medium cultivation for Chlorella sp. Cultivation Chlorella sp. in vinasse did not only minimize its COD content but also potentially produce Poly–Hydroxy Butyrate (PHB) in a limited nutrient. This paper presents a cultivation process of Chlorella sp. in vinasse on the various limited nutrient. Chlorella sp. was cultivated in vinasse by adding complete nutrient (urea and TSP), TSP (limited N), and urea (limited P). Experimental data was optimized by a mathematical model to predict the behavior of the Chlorella sp. in limited nutrient systematically. The study confirmed that the best condition of the cultivation medium of Chlorella sp. to minimize COD content in vinasse by addition phosphate into the reactor. However, PHB could be best accumulated in the cell on limited phosphate.
Effectiveness of Mycorrhiza, Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and Inorganic Fertilizer on Chlorophyll Content in Glycine max (L.) cv. Detam-4 Prida
Authors: Muhammad Muhammad , Isnatin Umi , Soni Peeyush , Gamawati Adinurani Praptiningsih
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to find an effective combination of mycorrhiza, PGPR (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria), and inorganic fertilizers. Whereas the specific purpose was observed in effective mycorrhiza to increased chlorophyll content. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with three factors: the 1st factor is mycorrhiza application, the 2nd factor is PGPR and the 3rd factor is the application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers. The data were analyzed with Analysis of Variance to determine the effect of the treatment being tried. Continued with the Least Significance Different test at a 95 % confidence level. The results indicated that the most effective application in increasing total chlorophyll content was (i) the ‟Commercial Mycorrhiza” without being combined with PGPR and fertilizer (TP.TR.MP:80 g mL–1). (ii) ‟Brawijaya Mycorrhiza” is combined with PGPR without fertilizer (TP.R.MB: 83 g mL–1). (iii) ‟Unida Mycorrhiza” without combined with PGPR and without fertilizer (TP.TR.MU: 80 g mL–1).
Analysis of Taking Decision of Farmers in Choosing Rice Cultivars: Case of Pakel District, Tulungagung, Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Oryza Sativa Rima , Tarik Ibrahim Jabal , Sutawi Sutawi
Published: January 2021

Rice, one of the main crops in Indonesia, is the largest staple food. To increase national rice production, the government improved productivity and expanded rice fields including the attitudes and preferences of farmers to choose and use the right superior seeds. The study was conducted in Pakel Subdistrict, Tulungagung Regency, East Java Province in February 2019 to April 2019.The results showed that the farmers’ decision-making process for seeds was strongly influenced by price, yield, and resistance to pests and diseases. In addition to the promotion factor, the availability of seeds at the trader and product quality determines the stage of purchasing the seeds to be planted.
Lignin and Cellulose Content of Fermented Rice Straw with Aspergillus niger (van Tieghem) and Trichoderma mutan AA1
Authors: Sukaryani Sri , Ainul Yakin Engkus , Wahyu Harinta Yos , Vincēviča–Gaile Zane , Dwi Purbajanti Endang
Published: January 2021

The rice straw has potential to be used as an alternative ruminant feed. However, it has limiting factors i.e low crude protein, high crude fiber, lignin, cellulose, and silica content. To overcome the limiting factors, immersion in a solution of alkaline (lime) or fermentation by using inoculum microbial cellulolytic and lignocellulolytic (Trichoderma mutan AA1 and Aspergillus niger.). The research method was experimental, with four treatments and repeated five times. Completely randomized design was used and if there are differences among treatments a further test with DMRT was carried out (level 1 % and 5 %). These treatments were T0: The rice straw without t fermentation; T1: Fermented with A. niger; T2: Fermented with T. mutan AA1; T3: Fermented with a combination A. niger and T. mutan AA1. The results showed that the rice straw fermented with A. niger and T. mutants AA1 very significantly increased the cellulose and decreased lignin content. The highest cellulose reached on T3 (20.297 %) followed by T2 (18.191 %), T1 (17.712 %) and T0 (16.747 %), respectively. While the lowest content of lignin reached on T3 (14.793 %), followed T2 (26.063 %), T1 (26.421 %) and T0 (38.164 %).
An experimental and theoretical correlation of inhibition effect of some dihydropyridine on mild steel in 1 M HCL
Authors: Fahim Ismail , Tridane Malika , Belaaouad Said
Published: January 2021

The corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 1 M HCl solution by some dihydropyridine has been studied using gravimetric, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization techniques and quantum chemical study. The results of weight loss and Tafel polarization measurements showed that among the studied compounds, Isradipine has good inhibiting properties for steel corrosion in acidic bath, with 98% inhibition efficiency at optimum concentration 400 ppm. The inhibition is of a mixed anodic–cathodic nature. The adsorption behaviour of the investigated compounds is found to obey Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Quantum chemical parameters were correlated with the experimental results.
Obesity is Associated with Poor Covid-19 Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hoong Caroline Wei Shan , Hussain Ikram , Aravamudan Veeraraghavan Meyyur , Phyu Ei Ei , Lin Jaime Hui Xian , Koh Huilin
Published: January 2021

Our aim was to assess the association between obesity and the risk of unfavourable outcomes (composite of severe disease and mortality) in inpatients with COVID-19. We conducted a systematic search of databases between December 2019 and 28th June 2020. Studies were included if they reported or allowed estimation of an odds ratio (OR) for unfavourable outcome in obese compared to non-obese patients hospitalised for COVID-19. Twenty cohort studies of 28 355 hospitalised patients with COVID-19 infection were included. Meta-analysis estimated a pooled OR of 2.02 (1.41–2.89, p<0.001) for an unfavourable outcome in obese versus non-obese patients when adjusted for age, sex and co-morbidities. When unadjusted for confounders, the OR for unfavourable outcomes was 1.25 (CI 1.07–1.45, p=0.005). An increased adjusted OR was also seen for death (OR 1.51; CI 1.13–2.21, p=0.006) and severe illness (OR 2.26; CI 1.47–3.48, p<0.001). Compared to a normal BMI, the risk of an unfavourable outcome was increased even in overweight patients, with severe obesity having an escalated risk.

Obesity is independently associated with an unfavourable outcome of COVID-19 illness, with obese patients having twice the risk of a composite outcome of severe disease or mortality, and a 50% increased risk of death.
Transition-Metal-Free Strategies for the Synthesis of C-1 Aryl-Substituted Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Singh Pushpinder , Batra Aanchal , Singh Kamal Nain , Mritunjay Mritunjay
Published: January 2021

1-Aryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines are important structural motifs and are widely found in bioactive molecules, pharmaceuticals and synthetic drugs. In view of increasing environmental awareness, the development of transition-metal-free strategies for the synthesis of these compounds is highly desirable. Metal-free oxidative coupling and lithiation methodologies have emerged as effective tools in this area as they exclude the use of transition-metal catalysts and help in reducing unwanted and toxic-metal-based chemical waste in the environment. This review highlights recent advances on the direct arylation of tetrahydroisoquinolines for the synthesis of the title compounds in the absence of a metal salt. Also, the emphasis has been placed on mechanistic considerations of these reactions.

1 Introduction

2 Arylation of Tetrahydroisoquinolines via Oxidative Coupling

2.1 Arylation Using Grignard Reagents

2.2 Arylation Using Other Organometallic Reagents

2.3 Arylation Using Aryl Organoboranes or Arenes

3 Arylation of Tetrahydroisoquinolines via Lithiation

3.1 Intermolecular Arylation

3.2 Intramolecular Arylation

4 Conclusion and Outlook
Porphyrin-Catalyzed Oxidation of N-Substituted Tetrahydroisoquinolines to Dihydroisoquinolones
Authors: Li Ao , Pan Bin , Li Yu-Long , Ouyang Qin , Mu Chao , Wang Na
Published: January 2021

A visible-light-induced direct α-oxygenation of N-substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives has been successfully developed. Tetraphenylporphyrinatozinc(II) has been identified as an effective and inexpensive photocatalyst for this transformation with a wide range of substrates. This protocol provides a convenient route to the desired products in moderate to good yields at room temperature under air.
Development of a Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plan for Pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Rajapreyar Prakadeshwari , Andres Jenny , Pano Christina , O'Brien Khris , Matuszak Alyssa , McDermott Katie , Powell Matt , Murkowski Kathy , Kasch Mary , Hay Stacey , Petersen Tara L. , Gedeit Rainer , Wakeham Martin
Published: January 2021

Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) is one of the most challenging patient populations for a clinician to manage with mortality between 8 and 31%. The project was designed to identify patients with PARDS, implement management guidelines with the goal of standardizing practice. Our objectives were to describe the development and implementation of a protocolized approach to identify patients with PARDS and institute ventilator management guidelines. Patients who met criteria for moderate or severe PARDS as per the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) definitions were identified using the best practice alert (BPA) in the electronic health record (EHR). Patients who did not meet exclusion criteria qualified for management using the Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plan (SCAMP), a quality improvement (QI) methodology with iterative cycles. The creation of a BPA enabled identification of patients with PARDS. With our second cycle, the number of false BPA alerts due to incorrect data decreased from 66.7 (68/102) to 29.2% (19/65; p < 0.001) and enrollment increased from 48.3 (14/29) to 73.2% (30/41; p = 0.03). Evaluation of our statistical process control chart (SPC) demonstrated a shift in the adherence with the tidal volume guideline. Overall, we found that SCAMP methodology, when used in the development of institutional PARDS management guidelines, allows for development of a process to aid identification of patients and monitor adherence to management guidelines. This should eventually allow assessment of impact of deviations from clinical practice guidelines.
Orthosteric–allosteric dual inhibitors of PfHT1 as selective antimalarial agents
Authors: Huang Jian , Yuan Yafei , Zhao Na , Pu Debing , Tang Qingxuan , Zhang Shuo , Luo Shuchen , Yang Xikang , Wang Nan , Xiao Yu , Zhang Tuan , Liu Zhuoyi , Sakata-Kato Tomoyo , Jiang Xin , Kato Nobutaka , Yan Nieng , Yin Hang
Published: January 2021

Significance

There is an urgent need for alternative antimalarials with the emergence of artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites. Blocking sugar uptake in
Plasmodium falciparum
by selectively inhibiting the hexose transporter
P. falciparum
hexose transporter 1 (PfHT1) kills the blood-stage parasites without affecting the host cells, making PfHT1 a promising therapeutic target. Here, we report the development of a series of small-molecule inhibitors that simultaneously target the orthosteric and the allosteric binding sites of PfHT1. These inhibitors all exhibit selective potency on the
P. falciparum
strains over human cell lines. Our findings establish the basis for the rational design of next-generation antimalarial drugs.
Coefficient of restitution: derivation of Newton’s experimental law from general energy considerations
Authors: Marchewka Avi
Published: January 2021

In order to describe the velocity of two bodies after they collide, Newton developed a phenomenological equation known as ‘Newton’s experimental law’ (NEL). In this way, he was able to practically bypass the complication involving the details of the force that occurs during the collision of the two bodies. Today, we use NEL together with momentum conservation to predict each body’s velocity after collision. This, indeed, avoids the complication of knowing the forces involved in the collision, making NEL very useful. Whereas in Newton’s days the quantity of kinetic energy was not known, today it is a basic quantity that is in use. In this paper we will use the loss (or gain) of kinetic energy in a collision to show how NEL can be derived.
Two-fluid and finite Larmor radius effects on high-beta tokamak equilibria with flow in reduced magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Ito Atsushi , Nakajima Noriyoshi
Published: January 2021

High-beta tokamak equilibria with flow comparable to the poloidal Alfvén velocity in the reduced magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) model with two-fluid and ion finite Larmor radius (FLR) effects are investigated. The reduced form of Grad-Shafranov equation for equilibrium with flow, two-fluid and FLR effects is analytically solved for simple profiles. The dependence of the Shafranov shift for the magnetic axis and the equilibrium limits on the poloidal beta and the poloidal Alfvén Mach number are modified by the two-fluid and FLR effects. In the presence of the diamagnetic drift due to the two-fluid effect, the equilibrium depends on the sign of the E × B drift velocity. The FLR effect suppresses the large modification due to the two-fluid effect. By constructing magnetic flux coordinates and a local equilibrium model from the analytic solution, the effects of the non-circular property of the magnetic flux surfaces in the poloidal cross-section on the components of the curvature vector is examined in detail. The analytic solution is also used for the benchmark of the numerical code. The numerical solutions with non-uniform pressure, density and temperature profiles show similar behavior to analytic solution.
The phase diagram for a class of multispecies permissive asymmetric exclusion processes
Authors: Roy Dipankar
Published: January 2021

In this article, we investigate a multispecies generalization of the single-species asymmetric simple exclusion process defined on an open one-dimensional lattice. We devise an exact projection scheme to find the phase diagram in terms of densities and currents of all species. In most of the phases, one or more species are absent in the system due to dynamical expulsion. We observe shocks as well in some regions of the phase diagram. We explain the density profiles using a generalized shock structure that is substantiated by numerical simulations.
Bifunctional nanomaterials for simultaneously improving cell adhesion and affecting bacterial biofilm formation on silicon-based surfaces
Authors: Motealleh Andisheh , Dorri Pooya , Czieborowski Michael , Philipp Bodo , Kehr N Seda
Published: January 2021

In the biomedical field, silicon-based materials are widely used as implants, biomedical devices, and drug delivery systems. Although these materials show promise for implant technologies and clinical applications, many of them fail to simultaneously possess key properties, such as mechanical stability, biostability, stretchability, cell adhesiveness, biofilm inhibition, and drug delivery ability. Therefore, there is considerable need for the development and improvement of new biomaterials with improved properties. In this context, we describe the synthesis of a new hybrid nanocomposite material that is prepared by incorporating bifunctional nanomaterials onto glass and polydimethylsiloxane surfaces. The results show that our hybrid nanocomposite material is elastic, stretchable, injectable, biostable, has pH-controlled drug delivery ability, and display improved cell adhesion and proliferation and, at the same time, impacted bacterial biofilm formation on the respective surfaces.
Tropical and stratospheric influences on winter atmospheric circulation patterns in the North Atlantic sector
Authors: Maidens Anna , Knight Jeff R , Scaife Adam A
Published: January 2021

Seasonal forecast systems have demonstrated significant skill in forecasting the winter North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) in recent years. This skill is a result of influences that have remote origins, such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation or the stratospheric Quasi-Biennial Oscillation. Here we assess the role of the tropical troposphere and the extra-tropical stratosphere in driving North Atlantic-European wintertime sea level pressure, using numerical experiments in which conditions in these regions are constrained to be similar to observational reanalyses. We show that both of these remote regions play a role in influencing surface circulation. In particular, the East Atlantic Pattern—the second most important mode of regional winter variability after the NAO—is linked to convective anomalies in the tropical Atlantic. Tropical and stratospheric influences are shown to lead to the reproduction of observed large-scale pressure patterns in the majority of winters, but often by a single driver rather than a blend of both. We argue that while stratospheric influences are well represented, tropical influences are underrepresented in winter predictions. These results highlight tropical Atlantic predictability as an important focus for further research.
Non-equilibrium band broadening, gap renormalization and band inversion in black phosphorus
Authors: Hedayat H , Ceraso A , Soavi G , Akhavan S , Cadore A , Dallera C , Cerullo G , Ferrari A C , Carpene E
Published: January 2021

Black phosphorous (BP) is a layered semiconductor with high carrier mobility, anisotropic optical response and wide bandgap tunability. In view of its application in optoelectronic devices, understanding transient photo-induced effects is crucial. Here, we investigate by time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy BP in its pristine state and in the presence of Stark splitting, chemically induced by Cs ad-sorption. We show that photo-injected carriers trigger bandgap renormalization, and a concurrent valence band flattening caused by Pauli blocking. In biased samples, photo-excitation leads to a long-lived (ns) surface photovoltage of few hundreds mV that counterbalances the Cs-induced surface band bending. This allows us to disentangle bulk from surface electronic states, and to clarify the mechanism underlying the band inversion observed in bulk samples.
Mechanical and wear performance of Al/SiC surface composite prepared through friction stir processing
Authors: Butola Ravi , Tyagi Lakshay , Singari Ranganath M , Murtaza Qasim , Kumar Harish , Nayak Dhiraj
Published: January 2021

In the present research work, AA7075 composite reinforced with silicon carbide particles has been fabricated using Friction stir processing (FSP). The silicon carbide particles having a size of 40 μm were placed in grooves of length 160 mm, width 2 mm, depth 3.5 mm, that were generated on the AA7075 plate. The square pin tool is utilized for fabricating the composite at two different rotational speed i.e. 700 and 1000 rpm. Effect of processing, particle addition and tool rotational speed is analyzed on mechanical and wear properties of the material. On friction stir processing the microhardness value and elongation of the material increased. Reinforcement addition contributed to decrease in ductility and tensile strength while on the contrary microhardness and wear resistance of the material improved. Tool rotational speed showed a direct relation with the tested mechanical and wear properties. Adhesive wear was the prominent wear mechanism and Fe layer formation was observed on the worn surface, contributing to increased wear resistance. These fabricated composites can find vast application in industries like automotive, defence and aerospace.
Effect of pre-extrusion on microstructure and mechanical properties of caliber-rolled AZ80 alloy
Authors: Qin J N , Yu H , Yan H Y , Li Q Z , Yu W , Liu H , Dong X R , Yang M X
Published: January 2021

In this paper, pre-extrusion treatment was applied to AZ80 alloy prior to caliber rolling, and microstructural evolution as well as mechanical properties of groove-rolled AZ80 alloy were studied. The results shown that the pre-deformation treatment can enhance the formability of AZ80 alloy and the cracking can be avoided. In addition, the pre-extrusion also resulted in fine grain structure after rolling process. Especially, 8-pass caliber rolling following by pre-extrusion of AZ80 alloy shown uniform and fine dynamic recrystallized (DRX) structure. Besides, the introduction of pre-deformation also promotes more second phases during caliber rolling. Therefore, the mechanical properties shown that the yield strength (TYS), tensile strength (UTS) and elongation after fracture (El.) of pre-extruded AZ80 caliber-rolled bars are 250 MPa, 440 MPa and 15%, respectively, which increased by 72%, 37%, and 88% compared with their as-cast counterparts. The improvement of mechanical properties is attributed to synergy effects of grain refinement, second precipitates strengthening and texture optimization.
Enhanced electrocatalytic activity of carbon cloth by synergetic effect of plasma and acid treatment
Authors: MEI Tingting , GAO Ming , LIU Danni , WANG Yu , HUANG Yifan
Published: January 2021

Commercial carbon cloth (CC) is an ideal electrocatalysis material to produce oxygen evolution reaction (OER) due to its high conductive and 3D flexible structure, but the lacked active sites limit its application. For improving its OER performance, the present study proposed an effective method combining plasma and acid treatment to introduce oxygen-containing functional groups and produce more active sites on its surface. Compared to the pristine CC, the plasma and acid treated carbon cloth (PN-CC) delivers a reduced overpotential by 34.6% to achieve current density of 10 mA cm−2. The Tafel slope declines from 97.5 mV dec–1 (pristine CC) to 55.9 mV dec–1 (PN-CC), showing an increased OER kinetic. Additionally, PN-CC electrocatalyst shows outstanding stability after 5000 cycles or 25 000 s. The combination of plasma and acid treatment shows a significant potential in surface modification for electrocatalysts.