bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid and high‐precision quantitative analysis based on substrate rotation‐enhanced Raman scattering effect
Authors: Liu Shupeng , Hou Zehai , Bao Xiang , Wang Xuetao , Zhang Heng , Li Taihao , Pang Fufei , Chen Zhenyi , Wang Tingyun , Chen Na
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we proposed a substrate rotation‐enhanced Raman scattering (SRERS) effect. The substrate, prepared by the technology of texturization and electroplating, is fixed on the motor and rotates with it while collecting Raman signal. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of Raman intensity in multiple measurements is less than 9.1%, which indicates that the Raman signal is stable and reproducible based on the SRERS effect. What is more, this method eliminates the fluctuation of the local electric field intensity caused by the inhomogeneity of the substrate and makes the “equivalent hot spots” distributed uniformly on the whole surface. The quantitative analysis with the Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and the lipid‐soluble drug Oxaprozin (OXA) as the probe respectively has demonstrated that the Raman intensity of R6G at 612 cm−1 with respect to concentration tend to linear ranging from 10−10 to 10−8 mol/L with the correlation coefficient (R2) is more than 0.96, and the Raman intensity of OXA at 1,003 cm−1 with respect to concentration tend to linear ranging from 3.4 * 10−6 to 3.4 * 10−4 mol/L (prepared with 50% v/v ethanol) with the correlation coefficient (R2) is more than 0.97. The mechanism of SRERS is given, and the theory analysis indicates that the Raman signal obtained is the mean of a large number of laser‐scanning points' contributions.
Surgical outcomes of patients with duodenal vs pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors following pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Dong Ding‐Hui , Zhang Xu‐Feng , Lopez‐Aguiar Alexandra G. , Poultsides George , Rocha Flavio , Weber Sharon , Fields Ryan , Idrees Kamran , Cho Clifford , Spolverato Gaya , Maithel Shishir K. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: May 2020

Background

To investigate the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (dNETs) vs pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs).

Method

Patients undergoing PD for dNETs or pNETs between 1997 and 2016 were identified from a multi‐institutional database. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) were evaluated.

Results

Among 276 patients who underwent PD, 244 (88.4%) patients had a primary pNET, whereas 32 (11.6%) patients had a dNET. Following PD, postoperative morbidity and mortality were comparable. While the total number of lymph nodes examined was similar between the two groups (median, dNETs 15.0 vs pNETs 13.0; P= .648), patients with dNETs had a higher incidence of lymph node metastasis (LNM) (60.0% vs 38.2%; P = .022) and a larger number of metastatic nodes (median, 3.5 vs 2.0; P = .039). No differences in OS or RFS were noted among patients with dNETs vs pNETs in both unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Among patients who recurred after PD, patients with dNETs were more likely to recur early (within 2 years, 100% vs 49.2%; P = .029) and at an extrahepatic site (intrahepatic‐only recurrence, 20.0% vs 54.1%; P = 0.142) vs patients with pNETs.

Conclusions

Patients with dNETs and pNETs had a similar prognosis following PD. Data on differences in the incidence of LNM, as well as in recurrence time and patterns may help to inform the treatment of these patients.
One‐step hydrothermal synthesis of magnetic nitrogen‐doped graphene for magnetic solid‐phase extraction of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in environmental water samples
Authors: Wei Tong , Wen Xue , Wu Dan , Shen Jiwei , Wei Yinmao , Wang Chaozhan
Published: May 2020

Graphene oxide has received extensive attention because of its unique properties and potential applications. In this study, magnetic nitrogen‐doped graphene was prepared by one‐step hydrothermal reaction using urea as the dopant and reductant, and ferroferric oxide nanoparticles were in situ deposited on the surface of the nanohybrids. The magnetic nitrogen‐doped graphene was characterized using various physical and chemical methods. It was used as a new adsorbent for the magnetic solid‐phase extraction of four nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs from the river water. The parameters influencing the extraction efficiency were optimized in detail. Under optimal conditions, this method provided a wide linear range (5–200 ng/mL). The limits of detection were in the range of 1.07–5.10 ng/mL. The recoveries varied from 81.2 to 121.5% with relative standard deviations of less than 10.8%. Overall, we can conclude that the proposed method offers an efficient pretreatment and enrichment and can be successfully applied for the extraction and determination of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in complex matrices.
Minimizing Contagion Risks of COVID‐19 During Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Meccariello Giuseppe , Cammaroto Giovanni , Iannella Giannicola , Capaccio Pasquale , Pelucchi Stefano , Vicini Claudio
Published: May 2020

In this communication, we would like to share our experience in managing TORS patients during COVID‐19 pandemic. Laryngoscope, 130:2593–2594, 2020
Nano‐Kirigami Metasurface with Giant Nonlinear Optical Circular Dichroism
Authors: Tang Yutao , Liu Zhiguang , Deng Junhong , Li Kingfai , Li Jiafang , Li Guixin
Published: May 2020

In linear optical regime, it is shown that the polarization, amplitude, and phase of light can be easily controlled by using optical metasurfaces, thus enabling the powerful designs of metalenses, high‐efficiency holograms, and so on. In comparison, the manipulation of nonlinear optical processes on the metasurfaces is much more challenging. This is mainly because the metasurface nonlinear source is also modulating the waves emitted from it. Thus, designing nonlinear meta‐atoms with multiple optical functionalities is highly desirable. Herein, the broadband and near‐unity nonlinear optical circular dichroism (CD) of second harmonic generation from a nano‐kirigami plasmonic metasurface is experimentally demonstrated, which is free‐standing with total thickness of about one‐third of the excitation wavelength. The broadband and near unity nonlinear CD is attributed to both the strong CD of fundamental wavelengths and spin‐controlled second harmonic generations from the nano‐kirigami meta‐atoms with threefold rotational symmetries. The proposed nonlinear nano‐kirigami metasurface provides a novel platform for realizing various nonlinear optical functionalities at the nanoscale.
Affect‐based nonconscious signaling: When do consumers prefer negative branding?
Authors: King Dan , Auschaitrakul Sumitra
Published: May 2020

When do consumers prefer negative branding, and why? One pilot study and four experiments, including an Implicit Association Test measuring nonconscious associations between negative words and dominance, converge on the conclusion that male consumers induced into same‐sex competition send energy‐efficient dominance signals to elicit fear and avoidance from competitors and maintain access over territory or resources. As a result of this competitive state, male consumers show a preference for negatively valenced words that can signal threat to rivals and elicit behavioral avoidance (“negative branding”). The preference for negative branding disappears under four conditions: (a) When dominance signaling is not needed because rivals are not physically dominant (smaller and weaker), (b) When visual associations show that the negative brand is no longer a dominance signal, (c) When male consumers are induced to think about masculinity but not dominance, or (d) When the male consumer has a low individual difference desire for intrasexual competition. Together, our findings contribute to the marketing literature by introducing a novel type of signaling (“dominance signaling”) that is distinct from prestige signaling and the conspicuous consumption of luxury goods. Dominance signaling and its influence on consumer product branding (“dominance goods”), as well as implications for evaluative conditioning, are discussed.
Making the Best of Polymers with Sulfur–Nitrogen Bonds: From Sources to Innovative Materials
Authors: Mutlu Hatice , Theato Patrick
Published: May 2020

Polymers with sulfur–nitrogen bonds have been underestimated for a long time, although the intrinsic characteristics of these polymers offer a myriad of superior properties (e.g., degradation, flame retardancy, film‐forming ability, good solubility in polar solvents, and high refractivity with small chromatic dispersions, among other things) compared to their carbon analogues. The remarkable characteristics of these polymers result from the unique chemical properties of the sulfur–nitrogen bond (e.g., its polar character and the multiple valence states of sulfur), and thus open excellent perspectives for the development of innovative (bio)materials. Accordingly, this review describes the most common chemical approaches toward the efficient synthesis of these ubiquitous polymers possessing diverse sulfur–nitrogen bonds, and furthermore highlights their applications in multiple fields, ranging from biomedicine to energy storage, with the aim of providing an informative perspective on challenges facing the synthesis of sulfur–nitrogen polymers with desirable properties.
Isolation of two novel reassortant H3N6 avian influenza viruses from long‐distance migratory birds in Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Li Ruiyun , Zhang Tao , Xu Jian , Chang Jianyu , Xu Bing
Published: May 2020

Two novel reassortant avian influenza A (H3N6) viruses were isolated from swan goose in Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province, China, in 2014. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that these viruses are most likely derived from the Eurasian‐originated H3Ny (N3, N6, N8) and H5N6 viruses circulating among wild and domestic birds. It is noteworthy that H9N2 viruses have contributed PB1 gene to these novel H3N6 viruses. Our findings provide phylogenetic evidence to elucidate the ongoing viral reassortment in the wild bird population in southern China. Active surveillance of avian influenza viruses in Poyang Lake is warranted.
Item Response Theory Analysis of the MDS‐UPDRS Motor Examination: Tremor vs. Nontremor Items
Authors: Tosin Michelle Hyczy de Siqueira , Goetz Christopher G. , Luo Sheng , Choi Dongrak , Stebbins Glenn T.
Published: May 2020

Background

In PD, tremor severity behaves differently from other core motor features. However, the most commonly used assessment of overall motor severity, total MDS‐UPDRS Motor Examination (Part 3) score, does not account for this distinction.

Objectives

To investigate the Motor Examination (Part 3) using Item Response Theory approaches focusing on sample‐independent strategies that assess how well items measure latent models of PD motor severity.

Methods

Data from 6,298 PD patients were analyzed with graded response model Item Response Theory approaches involving two analyses all 33 Part 3 items versus the 10 tremor items and 23 bradykinesia, rigidity, gait, and posture items considered separately. The strength of relationship between items and the latent measure of parkinsonian motor severity (discrimination parameter) and calculated thresholds (location parameters) were assessed using the mirt program implemented in R (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria).

Results

Analyzing all Part 3 items together, nontremor items demonstrated good discrimination parameters (mean = 1.83 ± 0.37) and range of thresholds (–1.73 to +4.42), but tremor items had poor discrimination (mean = 0.52 ± 0.76) and thresholds (–0.69 to 14.29). Segregating nontremor from tremor items in two independent analyses provided markedly improved discrimination and location parameters for both.

Conclusions

MDS‐UPDRS Part 3 tremor and nontremor items have very different relations to the construct of PD severity. Strongly improved clinimetric properties for Part 3 are obtained when tremor and nontremor items are considered separately. We suggest that evaluating PD motor severity, as an operationalized summary measure, is best attained through separate analyses with tremor and nontremor motor scores. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Functionalized Multi‐Walled carbon Nano Tubes nanoparticles dispersed in water through an Magneto Hydro Dynamic nonsmooth duct equipped with sinusoidal‐wavy wall: Diminishing vortex intensity via nonlinear Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Nguyen Quyen , Bahrami Dariush , Kalbasi Rasool , Karimipour Arash
Published: May 2020

In this study, the efficacy of applying a magnetic field on a double‐pipe heat exchanger equipped with a sinusoidal‐wavy wall on the effectiveness and entropy generation was investigated. Making sinusoidal‐wavy wall has a positive effect as well as a negative effect. Using sinusoidal‐wall increases the heat transfer area (positive effect), and on the other hand, it creates vortex (negative effect). The rate of improvement in heat transfer is dependent on the competition between positive and negative effects. Owing to using the sinusoidal‐wavy wall, the heat transfer enhancement was 1.56%. Applying the magnetic field, the vortex intensity diminished (negative effect reduction). In the presence of the magnetic field, heat transfer enhancement intensified from 1.56% to 19%. It was found that the presence of the magnetic field increases the entropy generation (due to the rise in temperature gradient) and, on the other hand, reduces the entropy generation (due to the diminishes in the vortex strength). In the presence of sinusoidal‐wavy wall, the increase in Hartman number led to decrease in total entropy generation. Due to the presence of the sinusoidal‐wavy wall in the double pipe heat exchanger (Hartman number = 0), the entropy generation was increased up to 18%. Applying the magnetic field diminished, the irreversibility correspond to sinusoidal‐wavy wall. At Ha = 60, owing to using the sinusoidal‐wavy wall, total entropy generation increased by only 8%.
Bismuth‐doped fiber as Q‐switcher in hafnium bismuth erbium co‐doped fiber laser
Authors: Ahmad Aminah , Harun Sulaiman Wadi , Paul Mukul Chandran , Rusdi M. F. M. , Das Shyamal , Dhar Anirban , Noordin Kamarul Ariffin
Published: May 2020

We demonstrate a compact, all‐fiber Q‐switched hafnium bismuth erbium co‐doped fiber laser based on bismuth‐doped fiber (BDF) as the saturable absorber (SA). The laser cavity was constructed using a homemade hafnium bismuth erbium co‐doped fiber as gain medium. It was found that stable Q‐switched pulses operating at 1531.74 nm can be readily generated when the 980 nm pump power is raised above the threshold of 96 mW. By increasing the pump power to the maximum power of 198 mW, the repetition rate was tunable from 27.2 to 59.1 kHz while the pulse width reduces from 36.3 to 6.8 μs. At the maximum pump power, the Q‐switched laser produced a pulse energy of 10.1 nJ. The finding provides evidence of the possibility of BDF as an effective SA for Q‐switched laser operating in 1.5 μm region.
Preparation of Polymer Microparticles through Nonaqueous Suspension Polycondensations: Part V—Modeling and Parameter Estimation for Poly(butylene succinate) Polycondensations
Authors: Dutra Luciana , Oechsler Bruno F. , Brandão Amanda L. T. , Lima Rafael C. , Nele Marcio , Pinto José Carlos
Published: May 2020

Polycondensation polymers are normally produced through bulk and solution polymerization processes, which are characterized by significant mass and heat transfer constraints and difficult polymer purification (when prepared in solution). Therefore, it is desirable to develop industrial processes that can circumvent some of these limitations. Recently, a suspension polycondensation process has been developed, rendering the industrial process simpler and enabling the manufacture of polycondensation polymer microparticles. For this reason, the present work builds a phenomenological model to describe the analyzed suspension polycondensation reactions and estimate the model parameters required to simulate poly(butylene succinate) suspension polycondensations. It is shown that both the suspending medium and the reaction conditions can affect the mass transfer resistance for removal of water and that mass transfer rate coefficients are controlled mainly by reaction temperature and solubility of water in the suspending medium, leading to higher mass transfer rates when polymerizations are carried out in soybean oil (when compared to paraffin) at higher temperatures.
A systematic review of best practices for the perioperative management of abdominal sacrocolpopexy
Authors: Nemirovsky Amy , Herbert Amber S. , Gorman Emily F. , Malik Rena D.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways have been shown to reduce surgical morbidity and length of stay across various procedures. Our objective was to systematically evaluate the literature for best practices of ERAS elements in abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC), to determine if there is sufficient evidence to create best practice guidelines for this procedure.

Materials and Methods

Following the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) statement, we performed a review using Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Eligible articles contained ERAS components and postoperative outcomes of ASC published in English since 1997. Thirty‐five full‐text articles were selected for final qualitative analysis.

Results

Poor functional status before ASC was associated with a longer length of hospital stay. Laparoscopic ASC was associated with a shorter postoperative hospital stay, with no difference between laparoscopic and robotic approaches. Epidural analgesia in addition to spinal anesthesia lowered levels of pain throughout the postoperative stay in laparoscopic ASC. A multimodal bowel regimen shortened time to first bowel movement compared to a single agent regimen. Removing a Foley catheter may lead to sooner first spontaneous void but may result in higher rates of urinary retention and urinary tract infection. Studies investigating preoperative bowel preparation, preanesthesia medication, and multidose antimicrobial prophylaxis did not show significant benefit.

Conclusions

Best practices for ASC can be developed based on current findings from the literature and extrapolation of evidence from other surgeries where ASC‐specific elements are missing, with the ability to modify the pathways as new data become available.
A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy‐based method for tracking diffusion in organogels
Authors: Mineart Kenneth P. , Walker William W. , Mogollon‐Santiana Joaquin , Lee Byeongdu
Published: May 2020

Organogels possess characteristics that make them promising materials for enhancing our understanding of nanostructure‐diffusion relationships in gels and for use in diffusion‐centered applications including drug delivery and nanoreactor media. Unlike hydrogels, however, there are no well‐recognized techniques for measuring the fundamental diffusion parameter of diffusivity, D, in organogels. The present work establishes a technique for measuring D based upon Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Physically crosslinked gels composed of poly[styrene‐b‐(ethylene‐butylene)‐b‐styrene] and aliphatic mineral oil are used to showcase the new technique's capability. Diffusivity of unimers—oleic acid—and reverse micelles—sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate (AOT)—within as‐prepared and preswollen gels is quantified and resultant values are commensurate with studies of unimer and micelle diffusion in hydrogels. The case of AOT diffusion is further validated through small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis, which is in close agreement (<20% difference).
Postnatal physiological changes in electrical activity of the diaphragm in extremely preterm infants
Authors: Iwasaki Eriko , Hirata Katsuya , Morikawa Kazue , Nozaki Masatoshi , Mochizuki Narutaka , Hirano Shinya , Wada Kazuko
Published: May 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to describe postnatal physiological changes in maximum values of peak electrical activity of the diaphragm (Edi) in extremely preterm infants during the preterm period.

Working Hypothesis

The amplitude and frequency of neural sigh are different at each postmenstrual age in extremely preterm infants.

Study Design

A retrospective, observational study.

Patient‐subject selection

Edi values were evaluated in 14 extremely preterm infants with neurally‐adjusted ventilatory assist.

Methodology

Data of Edi peak and Edi minimum were collected from a ventilator. Edi‐sigh was defined as the Edi peak value that was more than twice as large as the median Edi peak at each postmenstrual week in each patient. The frequency of Edi‐sigh, and median values of Edi‐sigh, Edi peak, and Edi minimum were evaluated at each postmenstrual week. The Jonckheere‐Terpstra test was used to analyze the trend between postmenstrual weeks and Edi values.

Results

From 26 to 35 postmenstrual weeks, the number of Edi‐sighs per hour significantly increased as postmenstrual weeks increased (P < .001). Furthermore, the median values of Edi‐sigh significantly increased as postmenstrual weeks increased (16.9 µV at 26 weeks to 25.4 µV at 35 weeks, P < .001). There were no significant changes in the median values of Edi peak and Edi minimum at each week.

Conclusions

The amplitude and frequency of neural sigh in extremely preterm infants increase with the number of postmenstrual weeks.
Neonatal screening programme for CF: Results from the Irish Comparative Outcomes Study (ICOS)
Authors: Fitzgerald Catherine , Linnane Barry , George Sherly , Ni Chroinin Muireann , Mullane David , Herzig Mary , Greally Peter , Elnazir Basil , Healy Fiona , Mc Nally Paul , Javadpour Sheila , Cox Des , Fitzpatrick Patricia
Published: May 2020

The introduction of NBS in Ireland in July 2011, provided a unique opportunity to investigate clinical outcomes using a comparative historical cohort study. Clinical cohort: children clinically diagnosed with CF born 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2011, and NBS cohort: children diagnosed with CF through NBS born 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2016. Clinical data were collected from the CF Registry of Ireland, medical charts, and data on weight/height before diagnosis from public health nurses and family doctors. SPSS was used for analysis. A total of 232 patients were recruited (response 93%) (93 clinically diagnosed, 139 NBS‐detected). Following exclusions of meconium ileus (MI) (40), diagnosis outside Ireland (4), and being designated as CFSPID (2), a total of 77 clinically diagnosed patients and 109 NBS detected children were included in analysis. Over half were homozygous for F508del mutation. Being clinically diagnosed was independently associated with hospitalization for infective exacerbation of CF < 36 months (OR, 2.80; 95%CI 1.24‐6.29). Diagnosis to first acquisition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was significantly longer in NBS than clinically detected; from birth there was no significant difference. Weight and length/height were significantly greater in NBS cohort at 6 and 12 months. We provide evidence of improved growth, reduced hospitalization for acute exacerbations, and delayed P. aeruginosa acquisition (from diagnosis) to age 3 for the NBS cohort. Screening practices likely account for the non‐significant difference in P. aeruginosa acquisition from birth.
Disorder‐Induced Transport Peculiarities in Amorphous Molybdenum Silicide Thin Films
Authors: Liu Zhengyuan , Luo Bingcheng
Published: May 2020

Disorder‐induced localization as a kernel of metal–insulator transition (MIT) in amorphous materials has been widely studied over the past few decades. Herein, the effect of disorder on the electronic transport behavior in the prototypical amorphous molybdenum silicide thin films is reported. The metallic conduction with negative temperature coefficient of resistivity (TCR) is demonstrated in amorphous molybdenum silicide thin films. Also, the surface disorder can induce the discrepancy in sheet resistance of amorphous molybdenum silicide thin films. This work clarifies the effect of disorder on the electronic transport and provides an alternative strategy to tune the electronic transport behavior of amorphous materials through engineering the surface disorder.
Food as medicine: A possible preventive measure against coronavirus disease (COVID‐19)
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhang Yue , Tariq Akash , Jiang Xiaolan , Ahmed Zeeshan , Zhihao Zhang , Idrees Muhammad , Azizullah Azizullah , Adnan Muhammad , Bussmann Rainer W.
Published: May 2020

The recent and ongoing outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) is a huge global challenge. The outbreak, which first occurred in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and then rapidly spread to other provinces and to more than 200 countries abroad, has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. Those with compromised immune systems and/or existing respiratory, metabolic or cardiac problems are more susceptible to the infection and are at higher risk of serious illness or even death. The present review was designed to report important functional food plants with immunomodulatory and anti‐viral properties. Data on medicinal food plants were retrieved and downloaded from English‐language journals using online search engines. The functional food plants herein documented might not only enhance the immune system and cure respiratory tract infections but can also greatly impact the overall health of the general public. As many people in the world are now confined to their homes, inclusion of these easily accessible plants in the daily diet may help to strengthen the immune system and guard against infection by SARS‐CoV‐2. This might reduce the risk of COVID‐19 and initiate a rapid recovery in cases of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Reliability analysis for accelerated degradation data based on the Wiener process with random effects
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Wang Bing Xing , Wu Wenhui , Hong Yili
Published: May 2020

On the basis of the principle of degradation mechanism invariance, a Wiener degradation process with random drift parameter is used to model the data collected from the constant stress accelerated degradation test. Small‐sample statistical inference method for this model is proposed. On the basis of Fisher's method, a test statistic is proposed to test if there is unit‐to‐unit variability in the population. For reliability inference, the quantities of interest are the quantile function, the reliability function, and the mean time to failure at the designed stress level. Because it is challenging to obtain exact confidence intervals (CIs) for these quantities, a regression type of model is used to construct pivotal quantities, and we develop generalized confidence intervals (GCIs) procedure for those quantities of interest. Generalized prediction interval for future degradation value at designed stress level is also discussed. A Monte Carlo simulation study is used to demonstrate the benefits of our procedures. Through simulation comparison, it is found that the coverage proportions of the proposed GCIs are better than that of the Wald CIs and GCIs have good properties even when there are only a small number of test samples available. Finally, a real example is used to illustrate the developed procedures.
Benchmarking of Spin–Orbit Torque Switching Efficiency in Pt Alloys
Authors: Hu Chen‐Yu , Pai Chi‐Feng
Published: May 2020

A magnetic heterostructure with good thermal stability, large damping‐like spin–obit torque (DL‐SOT), and low power consumption is crucial to realize thermally stable, fast, and efficient magnetization manipulation in SOT devices. This work systematically investigates on PtxCu1‐x/Co/MgO magnetic heterostructures with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA), and reports a promising spin Hall material, Pt–Cu alloy, possessing large DL‐SOT efficiency and moderate resistivity. The optimal Pt0.57Cu0.43 has a large DL‐SOT efficiency of about 0.44, as determined by hysteresis loop shift measurements, with a relatively low resistivity (82.5 µΩ cm at 5 nm thickness). Moreover, this large DL‐SOT efficiency and the coercivity reduction accompanying with proper alloying contribute to a low critical switching current density (2.37 × 106 A cm−2 in the Pt0.57Cu0.43 layer) in current‐induced magnetization switching measurements. Finally, the thermal stability of the Co layer can be preserved under alloying, whereas the switching power consumption can be significantly reduced, being the best performance among reported Pt‐based spin current sources. This systematic study on SOT switching properties suggests that Pt0.57Cu0.43 is an attractive spin current source with moderate resistivity, large DL‐SOT efficiency, good thermal stability, and low power consumption for future SOT applications.
Grinding and spectra replication often improves mid‐DRIFTS predictions of soil properties
Authors: Deiss Leonardo , Culman Steve W. , Demyan M. Scott
Published: May 2020

There is an increased interest in using diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy in the mid‐infrared region (mid‐DRIFTS) for high‐throughput prediction of soil properties, but basic methodological factors toward this end have yet to be thoroughly vetted. This study aimed to determine how the combined effects of soil grinding (sieved to <2.0 mm and finely ground to <0.5 mm) and sample replication (single or multiple soil subsamples, using one‐to‐four replicates) affect the spectral quality and predictive performance (accuracy) of automated plate‐based mid‐DRIFTS for soil analysis. We evaluated chemometric prediction performance of soil physical, chemical, and biological variables (clay, sand, pH, total organic C, and permanganate‐oxidizable C [POXC]) in 397 soils from the U.S. Midwest. Sieved soils (<2.0 mm) increased the overall spectral variability compared to finely ground soils (<0.5 mm) and led to a distinct wavenumber importance allocation in support vector machine models. These spectral changes degraded prediction performance of <2.0 mm samples when compared to <0.5 mm samples. The number of spectral replicates had a smaller effect on spectral properties, but impacted prediction accuracies of soil properties. In general, prediction outcomes improved with four spectral replicates either within a single soil subsample or across different soil subsamples. Our data collectively suggest that soil particle‐size reduction to <0.5 mm and collecting multiple spectra improve mid‐DRIFTS predictions. Recommendations to optimize high‐throughput mid‐DRIFTS should consider the tradeoffs between prediction accuracy and the effort needed to prepare soil samples and acquire spectra.
CdS QD Decorated LaFeO3 Nanosheets for Photocatalytic Application Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Acharya Saumyaprava , Kandi Debasmita , Parida Kulamani
Published: May 2020

Development of a photocatalyst with high activity is one of the key points for both H2 evolution and RhB dye degradation. To achieve a high‐quality photocatalyst by modifying the structure of the photocatalyst and exploring the electron‐hole mechanism is a great challenge in the field of photocatalysis. Here, we have synthesized a new photocatalyst CdS quantum dot/LaFeO3 by facile dual‐step solvothermal approach and with cost‐effective raw materials. The monohybrid has a heterostructure of CdS quantum dots(QDs) growing over few‐layer of LaFeO3 nanosheets uniformly. The photocatalytic activity was noticeably enhanced by the CdS QDs/LaFeO3 nanocomposite samples. With loading of 1 wt % CdS QDs, 94 % degradation of the RhB has been found just after 1 h irradiation of visible light. In H2 evolution reaction, 1wt %CdS QDs loaded LaFeO3 gives the maximum result i. e. 935.5 mmol h−1. It is due to the fact that in the composite, the rate of charge recombination has been delayed than that of the bare LaFeO3 and CdS QD.
Analytical Chemistry Optical Chemosensor for Spectrophotometric Determination of Nitrite in Wastewater
Authors: Abou‐Melha Khlood S.
Published: May 2020

An easy, sensitive, and rapid spectrophotometric method has been documented for determining nitrite (NO2−) in water and wastewater. To detect and adsorb harmful nitrite ions from wastewater efficiently; a stable optical nanosensor was manufactured by immobilization of 1‐Naphthylamine (1‐NA) over mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs). The determination of nitrite was based on the reaction of nitrite with the optical sensor (1‐NA chemosensor) and forming diazonium salt which was subsequently coupled with N‐(1‐Naphthyl) ethylenediamine dihydrochloride (NED) to form a stable brownish azo dye. The dye shows an absorption maximum at 457 nm. The optimal conditions for the reaction and the analytical parameters were evaluated. The method has been designed by controlling the acidity, the quantity of reagents required and the amount of tolerance of certain ions. The range of linearity was found to be 0.108‐10.8 μM of nitrite. The nitrite identification detection limit and quantitation limit are 0.106 μM and 0.353 μM, respectively. The performance of the chemosensor in extracting the NO2− ions was tested. According to the Langmuir isotherms, the adsorption pattern was highly competent, where the removal capacity for NO2− ion was 156.0 mg/g by the chemosensor. Some cations and anions have been identified as the competing ions; these ions were not affected on the NO2− ion in both detection and adsorption processes.
Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to Ethylene by Molecular Cu‐Complex Immobilized on Graphitized Mesoporous Carbon
Authors: Balamurugan Mani , Jeong Hui‐Yun , Choutipalli Venkata Surya Kumar , Hong Jung Sug , Seo Hongmin , Saravanan Natarajan , Jang Jun Ho , Lee Kang‐Gyu , Lee Yoon Ho , Im Sang Won , Subramanian Venkatesan , Kim Sun Hee , Nam Ki Tae
Published: May 2020

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to hydrocarbons is a challenging task because of the issues in controlling the efficiency and selectivity of the products. Among the various transition metals, copper has attracted attention as it yields more reduced and C2 products even while using mononuclear copper center as catalysts. In addition, it is found that reversible formation of copper nanoparticle acts as the real catalytically active site for the conversion of CO2 to reduced products. Here, it is demonstrated that the dinuclear molecular copper complex immobilized over graphitized mesoporous carbon can act as catalysts for the conversion of CO2 to hydrocarbons (methane and ethylene) up to 60%. Interestingly, high selectivity toward C2 product (40% faradaic efficiency) is achieved by a molecular complex based hybrid material from CO2 in 0.1 m KCl. In addition, the role of local pH, porous structure, and carbon support in limiting the mass transport to achieve the highly reduced products is demonstrated. Although the spectroscopic analysis of the catalysts exhibits molecular nature of the complex after 2 h bulk electrolysis, morphological study reveals that the newly generated copper cluster is the real active site during the catalytic reactions.
Interface Modulator of Ultrathin Magnesium Oxide for Low‐Temperature‐Processed Inorganic CsPbIBr2 Perovskite Solar Cells with Efficiency Over 11%
Authors: Wang Huaxin , Li Haiyun , Cao Siliang , Wang Ming , Chen Jiangzhao , Zang Zhigang
Published: May 2020

Although the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of thermally stable inorganic CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is over 10%, the severe interfacial and nonradiative recombination deteriorates the open‐circuit voltage (Voc). Herein, an ultrathin wideband MgO is mediated between the SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL) and the CsPbIBr2 photoabsorber to passivate the undesirable recombination, thereby enhancing the Voc. Meanwhile, the δ‐phase perovskite located at the interface between SnO2 ETL and CsPbIBr2 film is reduced after MgO modification, because the MgO layer provides a substrate for perovskite growth and reduces vacancy. Moreover, the tunneling effect and better band alignment effectively block holes and accelerate electrons to the electrode. Consequently, for optimal MgO‐modified devices, a shining improvement of Voc from 1.25 to 1.36 V without short‐circuit current losses boosts the champion CsPbIBr2 PSCs to obtain a PCE of 11.04%, which is the highest value among the pure‐CsPbIBr2 PSCs. However, the MgO layer significantly reduces severe hysteresis and increases device stability.
Loss of Cxcr5 alters neuroblast proliferation and migration in the aged brain
Authors: Fritze Jonas , Ginisty Aurélie , McDonald Rebecca , Quist Ella , Stamp Eleanor , Monni Emanuela , Dhapola Parashar , Lang Stefan , Ahlenius Henrik
Published: May 2020

Neurogenesis, the production of new neurons from neural stem cells, dramatically decreases during aging concomitantly with increased inflammation both systemically and in the brain. However, the precise role of inflammation and whether local or systemic factors drive the neurogenic decline during aging is poorly understood. Here, we identify CXCR5/5/CXCL13 signaling as a novel regulator of neurogenesis in the aged brain. The chemokine Cxcl13 was found to be upregulated in the brain during aging. Loss of its receptor, Cxcr5, led to increased proliferation and decreased numbers of neuroblasts in the aged subventricular zone (SVZ), together with accumulation of neuroblasts in the rostral migratory stream and olfactory bulb (OB), without increasing the amount of new mature neurons in the OB. The effect on proliferation and migration was specific to neuroblasts and likely mediated through increased levels of systemic IL-6 and local Cxcl12 expression in the SVZ. Our study raises the possibility of a new mechanism by which interplay between systemic and local alterations in inflammation regulates neurogenesis during aging.
Social Class and Obesity: An Association between BMI and Occupational Prestige
Authors: Buder Iris
Published: May 2020

It has been well established that physical appearance plays a role in the hiring decision, especially for women. However, the association between occupational prestige and image has not been well documented. As the use of regression analysis does not imply causality, this study focuses on the association between obesity and occupational prestige. Utilizing data from the American Time Use Survey (ATUS), this study seeks to extend the literature by analyzing the relationship between occupational prestige and the observed differences in ranking by body mass index (BMI). Adjusting for sociodemographic factors, this study concludes that an inverse relationship between BMI and occupational ranking is observed among women, while a positive association exists among men. The use of ordinary least squares modeling does not permit the exclusion that these associations are due to obesity alone, as there could be other unobserved characteristics influencing this relationship. However, the associations found can be a critical component in the attainment of occupational prestige and show that gender differences are present.
Identifying National Health Priorities: Content Analysis of the Islamic Republic of Iran's General Health Policies (GHPs)
Authors: Sajadi Haniye Sadat , Gholamreza Kashi Fateme , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: May 2020

Iran has been committed to strengthening its health‐care system by launching macro health policies, known as the General Health Policies (GHPs). This study aims to identify concepts and interventions formulated in the GHPs and helps to advance understanding as to what extent GHPs are aligned with global priorities. Content analysis was conducted to quantify concepts. Equity emerged as a critical principle underlined by the GHPs. Suggested measures mainly focused on improving health system governance. The main goals were improving health outcomes, equity, quality, efficiency, and effectiveness. The Iranian health system vision is to be one of the best‐integrated health‐care systems with medical education in the Western South Asia region and the Islamic world. In line with global health strategies, GHPs offer a country‐specific map to accelerate progress toward sustainable development. This analysis suggests that implementing the GHPs is in the public's interest and should be supported by the community.
On BF-type higher-spin actions in two dimensions
Authors: Alkalaev Konstantin , Bekaert Xavier
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We propose a non-abelian higher-spin theory in two dimensions for an infinite multiplet of massive scalar fields and infinitely many topological higher-spin gauge fields together with their dilaton-like partners. The spectrum includes local degrees of freedom although the field equations take the form of flatness and covariant constancy conditions because fields take values in a suitable extension of the infinite-dimensional higher-spin algebra 𝔥𝔰[λ]. The corresponding action functional is of BF-type and generalizes the known topological higher-spin Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity.
Nucleus capture by macroscopic dark matter
Authors: Bai Yang , Berger Joshua
Published: May 2020

Abstract

For a class of macroscopic dark matter with a large interaction strength with Standard Model particles, a nucleus could be captured by the dense, heavy dark matter as it traverses ordinary material. The radiated photon carries most of the binding energy and is a characteristic signature for dark matter detection. We develop analytic formulas and present numerical results for this radiative capture process in the low energy, non-dipole limit. Large-volume neutrino detectors like NOνA, JUNO, DUNE and Super(Hyper)-K may detect multi-hit or single-hit radiative capture events and can search for dark matter up to one gram in mass.
Treatment with a β-2-adrenoceptor agonist stimulates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and improves glucose homeostasis, insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in mice with diet-induced obesity
Authors: Kalinovich Anastasia , Dehvari Nodi , Åslund Alice , van Beek Sten , Halleskog Carina , Olsen Jessica , Forsberg Elisabete , Zacharewicz Evelyn , Schaart Gert , Rinde Mia , Sandström Anna , Berlin Roger , Östenson Claes-Göran , Hoeks Joris , Bengtsson Tore
Published: May 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Chronic stimulation of β2-adrenoceptors, opposite to acute treatment, was reported to reduce blood glucose levels, as well as to improve glucose and insulin tolerance in rodent models of diabetes by essentially unknown mechanisms. We recently described a novel pathway that mediates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells via stimulation of β2-adrenoceptors. In the current study we further explored the potential therapeutic relevance of β2-adrenoceptor stimulation to improve glucose homeostasis and the mechanisms responsible for the effect.

Methods

C57Bl/6N mice with diet-induced obesity were treated both acutely and for up to 42 days with a wide range of clenbuterol dosages and treatment durations. Glucose homeostasis was assessed by glucose tolerance test. We also measured in vivo glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, insulin sensitivity by insulin tolerance test, plasma insulin levels, hepatic lipids and glycogen.

Results

Consistent with previous findings, acute clenbuterol administration increased blood glucose and insulin levels. However, already after 4 days of treatment, beneficial effects of clenbuterol were manifested in glucose homeostasis (32% improvement of glucose tolerance after 4 days of treatment, p < 0.01) and these effects persisted up to 42 days of treatment. These favourable metabolic effects could be achieved with doses as low as 0.025 mg kg−1 day−1 (40 times lower than previously studied). Mechanistically, these effects were not due to increased insulin levels, but clenbuterol enhanced glucose uptake in skeletal muscle in vivo both acutely in lean mice (by 64%, p < 0.001) as well as during chronic treatment in diet-induced obese mice (by 74%, p < 0.001). Notably, prolonged treatment with low-dose clenbuterol improved whole-body insulin sensitivity (glucose disposal rate after insulin injection increased up to 1.38 ± 0.31%/min in comparison with 0.15 ± 0.36%/min in control mice, p < 0.05) and drastically reduced hepatic steatosis (by 40%, p < 0.01) and glycogen (by 23%, p < 0.05).

Conclusions/interpretation

Clenbuterol improved glucose tolerance after 4 days of treatment and these effects were maintained for up to 42 days. Effects were achieved with doses in a clinically relevant microgram range. Mechanistically, prolonged treatment with a low dose of clenbuterol improved glucose homeostasis in insulin resistant mice, most likely by stimulating glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and improving whole-body insulin sensitivity as well as by reducing hepatic lipids and glycogen. We conclude that selective β2-adrenergic agonists might be an attractive potential treatment for type 2 diabetes. This remains to be confirmed in humans.
Review of vibration devices for vibration-assisted machining
Authors: Zheng Lu , Chen Wanqun , Huo Dehong
Published: May 2020

Vibration-assisted machining (VAM) is a process in which high-frequency small amplitude vibration is applied on tool or workpiece to improve cutting performance, especially for hard and brittle materials. It has been applied to several machining processes including drilling, turning, grinding, and milling. This paper offers a review for the vibration devices used in VAM process. The history and current status of the vibration devices are presented including the design theory and principles. The developed vibration devices are categorised in two groups, namely resonant and non-resonant modes. Advantages and limitations of these devices are summarized and discussed, including their development trend. In addition, the benefits and applications of vibration-assisted machining are also introduced.
The mycotoxin deoxynivalenol activates GABAergic neurons in the reward system and inhibits feeding and maternal behaviours
Authors: Csikós Vivien , Varró Petra , Bódi Veronika , Oláh Szilvia , Világi Ildikó , Dobolyi Arpád
Published: May 2020

Deoxynivalenol (DON) or vomitoxin, is a trichothecene mycotoxin produced mainly by Fusarium graminearum and culmorum. Mycotoxins or secondary metabolic products of mold fungi are micro-pollutants, which may affect human and animal health. The neuronal and behavioural actions of DON were analysed in the present study. To address, which neurons can be affected by DON, the neuronal activation pattern following intraperitoneal injection of DON (1 mg/kg) was investigated in adult male rats and the results were confirmed in mice, too. DON-induced neuronal activation was assessed by c-Fos immunohistochemistry. DON injection resulted in profound c-Fos activation in only the elements of the reward system, such as the accumbens nucleus, the medial prefrontal cortex, and the ventral tegmental area. Further double labelling studies suggested that GABAergic neurons were activated by DON treatment. To study the behavioural relevance of this activation, we examined the effect of DON on feed intake as an example of reward-driven behaviours. Following DON injection, feed consumption was markedly reduced but returned to normal the following day suggesting an inhibitory action of DON on feed intake without forming taste-aversion. To further test how general the effect of DON on goal-directed behaviours is, its actions on maternal behaviour was also examined. Pup retrieval latencies were markedly increased by DON administration, and DON-treated mother rats spent less time with nursing suggesting reduced maternal motivation. In a supplementary control experiment, DON did not induce conditioned place preference arguing against its addictive or aversive actions. The results imply that acute uptake of the mycotoxin DON can influence the reward circuit of the brain and exert inhibitory actions on goal-directed, reward-driven behaviours. In addition, the results also suggest that DON exposure of mothers may have specific implications.