bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of cigarette smoking with gray and white matter in the UK Biobank
Authors: Gray Joshua C. , Thompson Matthew , Bachman Chelsie , Owens Max M. , Murphy Mikela , Palmer Rohan
Published: February 2020

Cigarette smoking is associated with increased risk for myriad health consequences including cognitive decline and dementia, but research on the link between smoking and brain structure is nascent. In the current study, we assessed the relationship of cigarette smoking with gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) in the UK Biobank, controlling for numerous confounding demographic and health variables. We used negative-binomial regression to model the association of cigarette smoking (having ever smoked regularly, cigarettes per day, and duration smoked) with GM and WM (GMN = 19,615; WMN = 17,760), adjusting for confounders. Ever smoked and duration were associated with smaller total GM volume. Ever smoked was associated with reduced volume of the right VIIIa cerebellum and elevated WM hyperintensity volume. Smoking duration was associated with reduced total WM volume. Regarding specific tracts, ever smoked was associated with reduced fractional anisotropy in the left cingulate gyrus part of the cingulum, left posterior thalamic radiation, and bilateral superior thalamic radiation, and increased mean diffusivity in the middle cerebellar peduncle, right medial lemniscus, bilateral posterior thalamic radiation, and bilateral superior thalamic radiation. This study identified significant associations of cigarette exposure with global measures of GM and WM, and select associations of ever smoked, but not cigarettes per day or duration, with specific GM and WM regions. By controlling for important sociodemographic and health confounders, such as alcohol use, this study identifies distinct associations between smoking and brain structure, highlighting potential mechanisms of risk for common neurological sequelae (e.g., dementia).
G protein-coupled kisspeptin receptor induces metabolic reprograming and tumorigenesis in estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer
Authors: Dragan Magdalena , Nguyen Mai-Uyen , Guzman Stephania , Goertzen Cameron , Brackstone Muriel , Dhillo Waljit S. , Bech Paul R. , Clarke Sophie , Abbara Ali , Tuck Alan B. , Hess David A. , Pine Sharon R. , Zong Wei-Xing , Wondisford Frederic E. , Su Xiaoyang , Babwah Andy V. , Bhattacharya Moshmi
Published: February 2020

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly metastatic and deadly disease. TNBC tumors lack estrogen receptor (ERα), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2 (ErbB2) and exhibit increased glutamine metabolism, a requirement for tumor growth. The G protein-coupled kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R) is highly expressed in patient TNBC tumors and promotes malignant transformation of breast epithelial cells. This study found that TNBC patients displayed elevated plasma kisspeptin levels compared with healthy subjects. It also provides the first evidence that in addition to promoting tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, KISS1R-induced glutamine dependence of tumors. In addition, tracer-based metabolomics analyses revealed that KISS1R promoted glutaminolysis and nucleotide biosynthesis by increasing c-Myc and glutaminase levels, key regulators of glutamine metabolism. Overall, this study establishes KISS1R as a novel regulator of TNBC metabolism and metastasis, suggesting that targeting KISS1R could have therapeutic potential in the treatment of TNBC.
A unified approach for divergent synthesis of contiguous stereodiads employing a small boronyl group
Authors: Zhan Miao , Ding Zhengwei , Du Shaozhi , Chen Haohua , Feng Chao , Xu Ming , Liu Zhi , Zhang Mengxi , Wu Chao , Lan Yu , Li Pengfei
Published: February 2020

Acyclic contiguous stereocenters are frequently seen in biologically active natural and synthetic molecules. Although various synthetic methods have been reported, predictable and unified approaches to all possible stereoisomers are rare, particularly for those containing non-reactive hydrocarbon substituents. Herein, a β-boronyl group is employed as a readily accessible handle for predictable α-functionalization of enolates with either syn or anti selectivity depending on reaction conditions. Contiguous tertiary-tertiary and tertiary-quaternary stereocenters are thus accessed in generally good yields and diastereoselectivity. Based on experimental and computational studies, mechanism for syn selective alkylation is proposed, and Bpin (pinacolatoboronyl) behaves as a smaller group than most carbon-centered groups. The synthetic utility of this methodology is demonstrated by preparation of several key intermediates for bioactive molecules.
Histone demethylase JMJD1C is phosphorylated by mTOR to activate de novo lipogenesis
Authors: Viscarra Jose A. , Wang Yuhui , Nguyen Hai P. , Choi Yoon Gi , Sul Hei Sook
Published: February 2020

Fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis increases greatly in response to feeding and insulin. This lipogenic induction involves coordinate transcriptional activation of various enzymes in lipogenic pathway, including fatty acid synthase and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase. Here, we show that JMJD1C is a specific histone demethylase for lipogenic gene transcription in liver. In response to feeding/insulin, JMJD1C is phosphorylated at T505 by mTOR complex to allow direct interaction with USF-1 for recruitment to lipogenic promoter regions. Thus, by demethylating H3K9me2, JMJD1C alters chromatin accessibility to allow transcription. Consequently, JMJD1C promotes lipogenesis in vivo to increase hepatic and plasma triglyceride levels, showing its role in metabolic adaption for activation of the lipogenic program in response to feeding/insulin, and its contribution to development of hepatosteatosis resulting in insulin resistance.
Identification and characterization of a bacterial core methionine synthase
Authors: Deobald Darja , Hanna Rafael , Shahryari Shahab , Layer Gunhild , Adrian Lorenz
Published: February 2020

Methionine synthases are essential enzymes for amino acid and methyl group metabolism in all domains of life. Here, we describe a putatively anciently derived type of methionine synthase yet unknown in bacteria, here referred to as core-MetE. The enzyme appears to represent a minimal MetE form and transfers methyl groups from methylcobalamin instead of methyl-tetrahydrofolate to homocysteine. Accordingly, it does not possess the tetrahydrofolate binding domain described for canonical bacterial MetE proteins. In Dehalococcoides mccartyi strain CBDB1, an obligate anaerobic, mesophilic, slowly growing organohalide-respiring bacterium, it is encoded by the locus cbdbA481. In line with the observation to not accept methyl groups from methyl-tetrahydrofolate, all known genomes of bacteria of the class Dehalococcoidia lack metF encoding for methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase synthesizing methyl-tetrahydrofolate, but all contain a core-metE gene. We heterologously expressed core-MetECBDB in E. coli and purified the 38 kDa protein. Core-MetECBDB exhibited Michaelis-Menten kinetics with respect to methylcob(III)alamin (KM ≈ 240 µM) and L-homocysteine (KM ≈ 50 µM). Only methylcob(III)alamin was found to be active as methyl donor with a kcat ≈ 60 s−1. Core-MetECBDB did not functionally complement metE-deficient E. coli strain DH5α (ΔmetE::kan) suggesting that core-MetECBDB and the canonical MetE enzyme from E. coli have different enzymatic specificities also in vivo. Core-MetE appears to be similar to a MetE-ancestor evolved before LUCA (last universal common ancestor) using methylated cobalamins as methyl donor whereas the canonical MetE consists of a tandem repeat and might have evolved by duplication of the core-MetE and diversification of the N-terminal part to a tetrahydrofolate-binding domain.
Seed germination characteristics of invasive Spartina alterniflora Loisel in Japan: implications for its effective management
Authors: Hayasaka Daisuke , Nakagawa Moe , Maebara Yu , Kurazono Tomohiro , Hashimoto Koya
Published: February 2020

Spartina alterniflora, intentionally or unintentionally introduced worldwide, has adversely impacted local Japanese ecosystems. Thus, prediction of future distributions of S. alterniflora and its management are required. Local population expansion after establishment depends heavily on asexual (clonal) reproduction, whereas sexual (seed) reproduction is one of the critical factors for estimating invasion success and the likelihood of colonization to new habitats. However, knowledge about the germination characteristics of S. alterniflora is lacking. Here, we report the environmental conditions suitable for germination of S. alterniflora, under variable conditions of cold stratification periods (0, 4, 8 weeks), temperature (constant, alternating temperature), light (light/dark, dark), and oxygen (aerobic, anaerobic). Cumulative germination rate of S. alterniflora increased with an increasing period of cold stratification. Its seeds clearly preferred aerobic conditions to germinate. Also, the germination rate was higher under alternating temperature than under constant temperature regardless of light and oxygen conditions in any cold stratification period. However, long-term cold stratification, alternating temperature, and aerobic conditions were more important for germination of S. alterniflora than light. Removal of soil seed banks within 8 weeks of cold stratification after seed dispersals with matured seeds may be effective approaches for disrupting the germination of S. alterniflora.
Spirulina maxima extract prevents activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by inhibiting ERK signaling
Authors: Chei Sungwoo , Oh Hyun-Ji , Song Ji-Hyeon , Seo Young-Jin , Lee Kippeum , Kim Kui-Jin , Lee Boo-Yong
Published: February 2020

The blue-green alga Spirulina maxima is a microscopic filamentous cyanobacterium. Spirulina was recently reported to elicit beneficial effects such as reducing cholesterol and inducing weight loss; however, its effects on inflammation are unknown. To determine the effect of S. maxima extract (SME) on innate immunity, we investigated the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, which is a multiprotein scaffolding complex that plays important roles in innate immune responses to many pathogenic infections in macrophages. SME suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced upregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-1β, and IL-18 in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, SME attenuated LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and thus pro-IL-1β could not be cleaved to IL-1β by activated caspase-1, which is activated by the NLRP3 inflammasome in RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, SME inhibited LPS-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in RAW264.7 cells, and attenuated the generation of ERK1 induced-reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in decreased expression of NF-κB. These findings suggest that SME suppresses the effects of the NLRP3 inflammasome via regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In summary, we demonstrated that SME prevents activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by inhibiting ERK signaling.
Extinction of chromosomes due to specialization is a universal occurrence
Authors: Wilson Jason , Staley Joshua M. , Wyckoff Gerald J.
Published: February 2020

The human X and Y chromosomes evolved from a pair of autosomes approximately 180 million years ago. Despite their shared evolutionary origin, extensive genetic decay has resulted in the human Y chromosome losing 97% of its ancestral genes while gene content and order remain highly conserved on the X chromosome. Five ‘stratification’ events, most likely inversions, reduced the Y chromosome’s ability to recombine with the X chromosome across the majority of its length and subjected its genes to the erosive forces associated with reduced recombination. The remaining functional genes are ubiquitously expressed, functionally coherent, dosage-sensitive genes, or have evolved male-specific functionality. It is unknown, however, whether functional specialization is a degenerative phenomenon unique to sex chromosomes, or if it conveys a potential selective advantage aside from sexual antagonism. We examined the evolution of mammalian orthologs to determine if the selective forces that led to the degeneration of the Y chromosome are unique in the genome. The results of our study suggest these forces are not exclusive to the Y chromosome, and chromosomal degeneration may have occurred throughout our evolutionary history. The reduction of recombination could additionally result in rapid fixation through isolation of specialized functions resulting in a cost-benefit relationship during times of intense selective pressure.
Reverse shock index multiplied by Glasgow Coma Scale (rSIG) predicts mortality in severe trauma patients with head injury
Authors: Wan-Ting Chu , Chin-Hsien Liao , Cheng-Yu Lin , Cheng-Yu Chien , Chi-Chun Lin , Keng-Wei Chang , Jiann-Hwa Chen , Wei-Lung Chen , Chien-Cheng Huang , Cherng-Jyr Lim , Jui-Yuan Chung
Published: February 2020

The reverse shock index (rSI), a ratio of systolic blood pressure (SBP) to heart rate (HR), is used to identify prognosis in trauma patients. Multiplying rSI by Glasgow Coma Scale (rSIG) can possibly predict better in-hospital mortality in patients with trauma. However, rSIG has never been used to evaluate the mortality risk in adult severe trauma patients (Injury Severity Score [ISS] ≥ 16) with head injury (head Abbreviated Injury Scale [AIS] ≥ 2) in the emergency department (ED). This retrospective case control study recruited adult severe trauma patients (ISS ≥ 16) with head injury (head AIS ≥ 2) who presented to the ED of two major trauma centers between January 01, 2014 and May 31, 2017. Demographic data, vital signs, ISS scores, injury mechanisms, laboratory data, managements, and outcomes were included for the analysis. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analysis were used to evaluate the accuracy of rSIG score in predicting in-hospital mortality. In total, 438 patients (mean age: 56.48 years; 68.5% were males) were included in this study. In-hospital mortality occurred in 24.7% patients. The median (interquartile range) ISS score was 20 (17–26). Patients with rSIG ≤ 14 had seven-fold increased risks of mortality than those without rSIG ≤ 14 (odds ratio: 7.64; 95% confidence interval: 4.69–12.42). Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test and area under the curve values for rSIG score were 0.29 and 0.76, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values of rSIG ≤ 14 were 0.71, 0.75, 0.49, and 0.89, respectively. The rSIG score is a prompt and simple tool to predict in-hospital mortality among adult severe trauma patients with head injury.
Patients with non-Sjögren’s sicca report poorer general and oral health-related quality of life than patients with Sjögren’s syndrome: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tashbayev B. , Garen T. , Palm Ø. , Chen X. , Herlofson B. B. , Young A. , Hove L. H. , Rykke M. , Singh P. B. , Aqrawi L. A. , Utheim Ø. A. , Utheim T. P. , Jensen J. L.
Published: February 2020

Understanding the impact of the disease on quality of life is crucial in patient management. In this cross-sectional study, general and oral health-related quality of life questionnaires, and thorough examinations of oral and ocular dryness were performed in age- and sex-matched patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS group), non-Sjögren’s syndrome sicca (non-SS group) and healthy controls. General and oral health-related quality of life were investigated with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey and the 14-Item Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaires, respectively. Subjective symptoms of xerostomia and ocular dryness were recorded using the Summated Xerostomia Inventory and Ocular Surface Disease Index, respectively. Clinical examinations included evaluation of clinical oral dryness scores, candida counts, unstimulated and stimulated saliva secretory rates, tear osmolarity, tear film break-up time, Schirmer I test and ocular surface staining. Both patient groups had pronounced signs and symptoms of xerostomia and ocular dryness. Even though the non-SS patients had less severe clinical signs than the pSS patients, they demonstrated much poorer general and oral health-related quality of life. In conclusion, non-SS patients require more attention in order to improve their quality of life.
Extent of resection and molecular pathologic subtype are potent prognostic factors of adult WHO grade II glioma
Authors: Choi Jinhyun , Kim Se Hoon , Ahn Sung Soo , Choi Hye Jin , Yoon Hong In , Cho Jae Ho , Roh Tae Hoon , Kang Seok-Gu , Chang Jong Hee , Suh Chang-Ok
Published: February 2020

We evaluated prognostic factors of adult low-grade glioma (LGG) according to the new 2016 WHO classification. Records of 153 patients diagnosed with WHO grade II LGG between 2003 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Based on the 2016 WHO classification, 80 patients (52.3%) had diffuse astrocytoma, IDH-mutant; 45 (29.4%) had oligodendroglioma, IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted (ODG); and 28 (18.3%) had diffuse astrocytoma, IDH-wildtype. Gross total resection (GTR) was performed in 71 patients (46.4%), subtotal resection in 31 (20.3%), partial resection in 43 (28.1%), and biopsy in 8 (5.2%). One hundred two patients (66.7%) received postoperative radiotherapy. The 5- and 10-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 72.7% and 51.5%, respectively, and the 5- and 10-year overall survival (OS) rates were 82.5% and 63.5%, respectively. GTR and IDH-mutant and/or 1p/19q codeletion were favorable prognostic factors for PFS and OS. Patients with IDH-wildtype had significantly decreased OS. Among patients with ODG who underwent GTR, no recurrence was observed after radiotherapy. Patients who underwent non-GTR frequently experienced recurrence after radiotherapy (IDH-mutant: 47.6%, IDH-wildtype: 57.9%). In conclusion, molecular classification of LGG was of prognostic relevance, with IDH-wildtype patients having a particularly poor outcome, regardless of the treatment. Favorable results were observed in patients who underwent GTR.
Effects of Aqueous Solubility and Geochemistry on CO2 Injection for Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Lee Ji Ho , Cho Jinhyung , Lee Kun Sang
Published: February 2020

In shale gas reservoirs, CH4 and CO2 have finite aqueous solubilities at high-pressure conditions and their dissolutions in water affect the determination of the original gas in place and the CO2 sequestration. In addition, the dissolution of CO2 decreases the pH of connate water, and the geochemical reactions may thus occur in carbonate-rich shale reservoirs. The comprehensive simulations of this work quantify the effects of aqueous solubility and geochemistry on the performance CO2 huff-n-puff process in shale gas reservoir. Accounting for the aqueous solubility of CH4 increases the initial natural gas storage and natural gas production. The effect of the aqueous solubility of CO2 enables to sequester additional CO2 via solubility trapping. Considering the geochemical reactions, the application of the CO2 huff-n-puff process causes the dissolution of carbonate minerals and increases the porosity enhancing the gas flow and the gas recovery. Incorporation of geochemistry also predicts the less CO2 sequestration capacity. Therefore, this study recommends the consideration of aqueous solubility and geochemical reactions for the accurate prediction of gas recovery and CO2 sequestration in shale gas reservoirs during the CO2 huff-n-puff process.
Identifying defect-related quantum emitters in monolayer WSe2
Authors: Dang Jianchen , Sun Sibai , Xie Xin , Yu Yang , Peng Kai , Qian Chenjiang , Wu Shiyao , Song Feilong , Yang Jingnan , Xiao Shan , Yang Longlong , Wang Yunuan , Rafiq M. A. , Wang Can , Xu Xiulai
Published: February 2020

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides have recently attracted great interests because the quantum dots embedded in monolayer can serve as optically active single-photon emitters. Here, we provide an interpretation of the recombination mechanisms of these quantum emitters through polarization-resolved and magneto-optical spectroscopy at low temperature. Three types of defect-related quantum emitters in monolayer tungsten diselenide (WSe2) are observed, with different exciton g-factors of 2.02, 9.36, and unobservable Zeeman shift, respectively. The various magnetic response of the spatially localized excitons strongly indicate that the radiative recombination stems from the different transitions between defect-induced energy levels, valance, and conduction bands. Furthermore, the different g-factors and zero-field splittings of the three types of emitters strongly show that quantum dots embedded in monolayer have various types of confining potentials for localized excitons, resulting in electron–hole exchange interaction with a range of values in the presence of anisotropy. Our work further sheds light on the recombination mechanisms of defect-related quantum emitters and paves a way toward understanding the role of defects in single-photon emitters in atomically thin semiconductors.
Immobilized imidazolium-based ionic liquids in C18 for solid-phase extraction
Authors: Passos Marieta L. C. , Sousa Emília , Saraiva M. Lúcia M. F. S.
Published: February 2020

Synthesis and characterization of solid-phases based on the immobilization of ionic liquids to be used in solid-phase extractions.
Simulation guided design of silver nanostructures for plasmon-enhanced fluorescence, singlet oxygen generation and SERS applications
Authors: Tavakkoli Yaraki Mohammad , Daqiqeh Rezaei Soroosh , Tan Yen Nee
Published: February 2020

A simulation-guided design of silver nanocubes for MEF, ME-SOG and SERS applications based on the fluorophore/photosensitizer's optical properties and Raman laser wavelength.
Switching between Hückel and Möbius aromaticity: a density functional theory and information-theoretic approach study
Authors: Yu Donghai , Rong Chunying , Lu Tian , Geerlings Paul , De Proft Frank , Alonso Mercedes , Liu Shubin
Published: February 2020

Benziporphyrins are versatile macrocycles exhibiting aromaticity switching behaviors.
Muconic acid isomers as platform chemicals and monomers in the biobased economy
Authors: Khalil Ibrahim , Quintens Greg , Junkers Tanja , Dusselier Michiel
Published: February 2020

A complete overview of the chemical and biotechnological synthesis of muconic acid, its isomerization, and valorization into chemicals and polymers is presented.
Thermochemical stability, and electronic and dielectric properties of Janus bismuth oxyhalide BiOX (X = Cl, Br, I) monolayers
Authors: Das Tilak , Datta Soumendu
Published: February 2020

Ultrathin monolayers of bismuth oxyhalide materials BiOX (X = Cl, Br, I) grown along 〈001〉 are studied using first-principles density functional theory.
A luminescent pH-sensitive lysosome targeting Eu(iii) probe
Authors: Gupta Kritika , Verma Madhu , Srivastava Priyanka , Sivakumar Sri , Patra Ashis K.
Published: February 2020

A pH-responsive, water soluble luminescent Eu(iii) probe is designed to target lysosomes via intrinsic f–f emission from the Eu(iii) centre.
Improved deep-red phosphorescence in cyclometalated iridium complexes via ancillary ligand modification
Authors: Kabir Evanta , Wu Yanyu , Sittel Steven , Nguyen Boi-Lien , Teets Thomas S.
Published: February 2020

Bis-cyclometalated iridium complexes with electron-rich ancillary ligands exhibit high phosphorescence quantum yields in the deep red region.
Core–shell metal–macrocycle framework (MMF): spatially selective dye inclusion through core-to-shell anisotropic transport along crystalline 1D-channels connected by epitaxial growth
Authors: Tashiro Shohei , Mitsui Shinya , Burke David W. , Kubota Ryou , Matsushita Nobuyuki , Shionoya Mitsuhiko
Published: February 2020

Core–shell porous metal–macrocycle frameworks were fabricated via an epitaxial growth procedure to observe core-to-shell anisotropic transport of a dye.
Correction: Kinetics and dynamics of the C(3P) + H2O reaction on a full-dimensional accurate triplet state potential energy surface
Authors: Li Jun , Xie Changjian , Guo Hua
Published: February 2020

Correction for ‘Kinetics and dynamics of the C(3P) + H2O reaction on a full-dimensional accurate triplet state potential energy surface’ by Jun Li et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 23280–23288.
The design, synthesis and performance of thermally activated delayed fluorescence macromolecules
Authors: Jiang Tingcong , Liu Yuchao , Ren Zhongjie , Yan Shouke
Published: February 2020

The design, synthesis and performance of thermally activated delayed fluorescence macromolecules are summarized, and the typical solution-processed polymeric and dendritic emitters are also organized herein as a function of EL emission color.
Optimal resource allocation in networked control systems
Authors: Cetin Gokhan , Fadali M. Sami , Xu Hao
Published: February 2020

This study proposes an optimal bandwidth allocation algorithm for a Networked Control System (NCS) that includes a time‐driven sensor, event‐driven controller and random channels. The authors predict resource demands at the next time step for the random channels, then calculate the resource demands from the event‐driven and the time‐driven channels. They allocate bandwidths for each channel by solving a convex optimisation problem based on the resource demands. When the total traffic exceeds the total capacity of the network, only the random and event‐driven network bandwidths are allocated optimally. For time‐driven channels, they increase the sampling period to reduce traffic volume and satisfy the total capacity constraint. This maintains sufficiently slow sampling to improve the quality of service in NCS. An upper bound on the sampling period is set to guarantee sufficiently fast sampling for control dynamics. Simulation results show that the proposed approach minimises network congestion.
Bandwidth optimisation and parameter analysis at two adjacent intersections based on set operations
Authors: Ma Xiaolong , Ma Dongfang , Yuan Jinyu , Hao Shunfeng
Published: February 2020

Bandwidth‐based models are widely used for traffic signal coordination. Maxband‐based integer linear programming is the most popular and practical method of obtaining the maximum bandwidth solution and researchers have been making continuous improvements to it for decades. However, the impacts of the parameters of the model determine (i) whether the parameter needs to be optimised and (ii) whether the optimisation results are strictly optimal, and have not yet been well explained. To analyse specifically the impacts of the relevant parameters on bandwidth, this study focuses on two adjacent intersections to establish a general mathematical description, including the parameters cycle, split, travel time, phase sequence, and offset, and further characterises the bandwidth versus relative offset relationship. The authors analyse the bandwidth solutions obtained with different relative offsets and the effects of parameters on the through‐band. The results of the proposed model provide a reasonable interpretation of parameter optimisation strategies in bandwidth‐based models, reveal the possibility for better offset transitioning, and promote awareness of the issues involved in applying Maxband‐based models.
Electrically small hemi‐cylindrical‐shaped multilayered very high frequency antenna for underground mine communication
Authors: Chandra Dash Jogesh , Nagalakshmaiah Kalva , Reddy Gopi Shrikant , Mukherjee Jayanta
Published: February 2020

This study presents the design of an efficient, moderately high gain and portable antenna operating at 58.27 MHz. The proposed antenna is a multilayered hemi‐cylindrical shaped structure, which works on the principle of resonant inductive coupling using a multi‐turn loop. An equivalent circuit, which takes into account the near field coupling effects, is also developed. The proposed antenna is electrically small with a finite ground plane with and has an overall volume of 0.038λ0 × 0.058λ0 × 0.058λ0. The antenna exhibits a gain of 3.43 dBi and an efficiency of 92.5% as obtained from measured results at the resonant frequency. The measured fractional bandwidth and the Qratio of the antenna are 0.547 and 8.647%, respectively. The results obtained from electromagnetic simulation matches with that obtained from the equivalent circuit and the measured results. The antenna can operate at the lower very high frequency (VHF) frequency range for applications, which require electrically small portable antennas such as underground mine communication.
A diagnostic diagram for γ Doradus variables and slowly pulsating B-type stars
Authors: Takata M. , Ouazzani R.-M. , Saio H. , Christophe S. , Ballot J. , Antoci V. , Salmon S. J. A. J. , Hijikawa K.
Published: February 2020

Pulsating variables of γ Doradus type (γ Dor) and slowly pulsating B-type (SPB) stars are found on and near the main sequence with typical periods varying between one and several days, making them rather hard to detect from the ground. It is only with space missions such as CoRoT and Kepler that we became truly capable of determining their oscillation frequencies with enough precision to perform in-depth analyses. Here we present an efficient and easy-to-implement seismic tool, in which the frequency (ν) and the square root of the frequency difference ($ \sqrt{\Delta \nu} $) are plotted against each other as the abscissa and the ordinate, respectively. This allows us to immediately (1) perform mode identification; (2) estimate the average rotation rate and the characteristic period of gravity modes; and (3) recognise certain physical effects, including buoyancy glitches and avoided crossings. This diagnostic tool can only be applied to prograde sectoral g modes. To validate the tool presented here, we used stellar models and also applied it to three γ Dor (KIC 12066947, KIC 5608334 and KIC 4846809) and one SPB star (KIC 3459297), all observed with Kepler. Furthermore, we show that the rotation rates determined using this new tool are consistent with the results of previous studies.
2MASS J15491331-3539118: a new low-mass wide companion of the GQ Lup system
Authors: Alcalá J. M. , Majidi F. Z. , Desidera S. , Frasca A. , Manara C. F. , Rigliaco E. , Gratton R. , Bonnefoy M. , Covino E. , Chauvin G. , Claudi R. , D’Orazi V. , Langlois M. , Lazzoni C. , Mesa D. , Schlieder J. E. , Vigan A.
Published: February 2020

Substellar companions at wide separation around stars hosting planets or brown dwarfs (BDs) yet close enough for their formation in the circumstellar disc are of special interest. In this Letter we report the discovery of a wide (projected separation ∼16″​​.0, or 2400 AU, and position angle 114.61°) companion of the GQ Lup A-B system, most likely gravitationally bound to it. A VLT/X-shooter spectrum shows that this star, 2MASS J15491331-3539118, is a bonafide low-mass (∼0.15M⊙) young stellar object (YSO) with stellar and accretion/ejection properties typical of Lupus YSOs of similar mass, and with kinematics consistent with that of the GQ Lup A-B system. A possible scenario for the formation of the triple system is that GQ Lup A and 2MASS J15491331-3539118 formed by fragmentation of a turbulent core in the Lup I filament, while GQ Lup B, the BD companion of GQ Lup A at 0″​​.7, formed in situ by the fragmentation of the circumprimary disc. The recent discoveries that stars form along cloud filaments would favour the scenario of turbulent fragmentation for the formation of GQ Lup A and 2MASS J15491331-3539118.
Effect of pyrolisis temperature and time on liquid smoke characteristics
Authors: Maulina Seri , Amalia Rizki , R Kamny Ekanzha
Published: February 2020

Oil palm frond is a lignocellulose material, by pyrolysis, it will produce liquid smoke which have many advantages because of the compounds, such as acetic acid, carbonyls and phenolics contained in it. The pyrolysis of oil palm fronds in this study carried out at temperatures 400 °C, 500 °C, and 600 °C for 40 minutes, 90 minutes, and 120 minutes. There were 3 parameters observed in this study, they were acetic acid, phenolics and carbonyl contents which were analyzed by GC-MS instrument. The results of the study showed that the different temperatures and times of pyrolysis affected the content of chemical components in liquid smoke and acetic acid was the most dominant component obtained in the liquid smoke. The highest acetic acid content in the liquid smoke obtained was 92,30% at pyrolysis temperature of 500 °C for 120 minutes. Meanwhile, the highest total phenolic content obtained was 7,32% at pyrolysis temperature of 600 °C for 120 minutes and the highest carbonyl content obtained was 32,56% at the pyrolysis temperature of 400 °C for 60 minutes
Evaluating the Water Quality Contribution of Estero de Paco to Pasig River and Manila Bay, Philippines
Authors: Clemente Eligia D.
Published: February 2020

The clean-up of the river system feeding into Manila Bay is crucial in addressing the current Manila Bay water quality. Since Estero de Paco is a feeder into Pasig River which enters the Manila Bay, its clean-up is imperative to sustain Manila Bay water quality. This research gathered information on the water quality Estero during both the dry and the wet season. Initial survey of the stretch showed that there are bridges and residential areas as potential sampling points. Using the Streeter-Phelps model an assessment of the water quality during different meteorological conditions shows that almost no DO is available during the dry season, while some have a DO > 5 mg/l (standard) during the rainy season. Unfortunately, based on the other critical parameters, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) was high due to discharge of septic waste directly into the river during the heavy rains. Sludge near populated areas were characterized and found to contain high levels of Oil & Grease, Organic Matter. The Streeter-Phelps equation used to evaluate the oxygen deficit shows that at the Pasig River junction DO is negligible even during the wet season. It is recommended that regular monitoring and community engagement be actively pursued.
Operation mode and effect test of rural revitalization promoted by financial inclusion based on a case study of Yueqing of Zhejiang
Authors: Zhuo Yubo , Wang Xinxin , Wu Zheng , Chen Yongqi
Published: February 2020

Financial inclusion is a powerful push to realize the strategy of rural revitalization which is the “compass” of the work of agriculture, rural areas and farmers in the new era. The Strategy of Promoting Rural Revitalization by Financial Inclusion has been practiced in some areas, but there is a lack of the effect of practice and the summary of successful modes in academic researches. In this paper, taking Yueqing, Zhejiang Province, the pioneer of financial inclusion, as an example, the “Yueqing mode” of financial inclusion promoting rural revitalization was discussed based on the grounded theory, and factor analysis and multiple linear regression were further used from the perspective of residents’ subjective perception to test the actual effect of “Yueqing mode”. The results show that financial inclusion can actively promote the implementation of rural revitalization strategy, which is mainly reflected in the improvement of the living environment and quality of life.
Durch attraktive Karrierewege Public Health in Deutschland nachhaltig
stärken – Kernforderungen an eine Public-Health-Strategie
für Deutschland im Bereich Human Resources
Authors: Hommes Franziska , Alpers Katharina , Reime Birgit , Rexroth Ute
Published: February 2020

Der Bedarf an qualitativ gut ausgebildeten Public-Health-Fachkräften
nimmt angesichts einer gesteigerten Bedeutung von Gesundheitsförderung
und Prävention in Deutschland zu. Demgegenüber gestalten sich
viele Karrierewege im Bereich Public Health zu intransparent, was für
interessierte Nachwuchskräfte zusätzliche Hürden schafft
und zur bestehenden Lücke zwischen Bedarf und Angebot beiträgt.
Vor dem Hintergrund internationaler Rahmenwerke sowie der konkreten
Arbeitsmarktsituation in Deutschland diskutierte die AG 11 „Karrierewege
in Public Health“ des 3. Symposiums des Zukunftsforums Public Health
aktuelle Herausforderungen und formulierte erste
Lösungsansätze.
What Future for Hahnemann's Therapeutic System?
Authors: Hoover Todd A.
Published: February 2020

This article explores the historical growth patterns in homeopathy, recent shifts in perception, and a likely future of this type of medicine. Homeopathic medicine developed as a contradictory approach to health compared to the orthodox view of mainstream medicine. Over the past two centuries, this form of health care has maintained its heterodox position under continued attacks from the established order. Modern medicine is being pushed by materialism and the drive to generate profits by large pharmaceutical and health care corporations. Whilst homeopathy has also enjoyed economic growth in many markets around the world, rising popularity of this type of treatment has been shown to generate regulatory concerns on some fronts. Recent pressures from regulatory authorities have resulted in both setbacks and improved situations for homeopathic prescribers, varying by country where they are located. Despite widespread attacks in the press and from some governmental authorities, users of homeopathic therapies remain staunchly attached to this form of treatment. The future of homeopathy will likely continue to be as rocky as it has been for the past two centuries.
Outcomes in Schatzker Type 5 and Type 6 Tibial Plateau Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator: Follow-up in 30 Patients
Authors: Verma Anubhav , Venkateshaiah Sheshagiri , Gajapurada Siddalingamurthy
Published: February 2020

Introduction Fractures of the proximal tibia, particularly those that extend into the knee joint, are serious injuries that frequently result in functional impairment. Complications include infection, compartment syndrome, stiffness, skin loss, and possible amputation. These can be minimized using the Ilizarov external fixator which allows early weight bearing, minimal soft tissue injury, and a multiaxial stable fixation.

Materials and Methods A total of 30 patients with open/closed Schatzker type 5 and 6 tibial plateau fractures were studied for outcome following surgery and implant removal using the modified Hohl and Luck criteria which include functional (extensor lag, valgus or varus instability, knee range of movement, walking distance and pain) and radiological parameters (valgus/varus deformity, depression of articular surface, and osteoarthritis).

Results In our study, out of 30 patients 53.3% patients had an excellent outcome functionally, whereas 23.3% had a good outcome, 13.3% fair, and 10% had a poor outcome. Radiologically, 46.6% had an excellent outcome, 40% had a good outcome, and 13.3% had a fair outcome. All the patients achieved union with a mean time of 23.9 weeks. Common complication was pin tract infection in 13.3% patients. In total, 60% of the patients could be mobilized immediately with the remaining mobilized within 1 to 4 weeks.

Conclusion Most patients had an excellent to good functional or radiological outcome once the implant was removed. Weight bearing could be started immediately in most cases with minimal complications encountered in few patients like pin tract infection, deep venous thrombosis, and osteomyelitis.
Interaction of two counterpropagating laser induced plasmas and shock waves in air
Authors: Guthikonda Nagaraju , Manikanta Elle , Chelikani Leela , Sai Shiva S. , Sree Harsha S. , Ikkurthi V. R. , Prem Kiran P.
Published: February 2020

The interaction of two counterpropagating plasmas and shockwaves due to a 7 ns laser induced breakdown (LIB) of ambient atmospheric air was studied using the 2D emission and shadowgraphic imaging technique. The effect of separation distance (d) between the two plasma sources and their energy ratio on plasma and shockwave evolution is presented. These low density and low temperature plasma sources form a stagnation layer in the interaction zone that showed an interesting dependence on the input energy of the sources. The interaction dynamics of the two counterpropagating plasma plumes and the shock waves in ambient air are compared with that of the respective single plasma source to explicitly bring out the energy exchange during the interaction. The evolution of a plasma jetlet, studied by 2D emission images and shadowgraphic imaging, has shown very good correlation giving valuable insight into the role of a plasma induced shockwave on the expanding plasma. The propagation of the shock front of the high energy source through the plasma of a low energy source is observed to predominantly lead to the formation of a jetlet and its evolution.
Boltzmann transport equation solver based on phase-point trajectory method for argon gas
Authors: Naeimabadi A. , Abbasi H.
Published: February 2020

A method of phase point trajectory (PPT) is presented to solve the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE), which makes it possible to study the time-dependent behaviors of the electron velocity distribution function (EVDF) of ionized gases. The important features of the PPT method are: (a) It is recurrence-free. (b) The governing equations on the phase point trajectories are quite similar to those governing particle dynamics in the particle in cell (PIC) simulation and therefore, the technique is easy to use. (c) It has a unique and cost-effective second-order interpolation scheme. (d) In the PPT method, the full EVDF is calculated (i.e., it is not expanded). In order to illustrate how the PPT method works, the BTE is simulated for argon gas under the influence of an external uniform electric field, and the following are examined as benchmark: (i) Collisionless behaviors of EVDF and (ii) the time-dependent behavior of swarm parameters and their equilibrium values in the presence of elastic and inelastic collisions. (iii) The role of each of the collision terms in the behavior of EVDF and electron density. Finally, it is shown that the results of the PPT simulation are in good agreement with the results of the known relevant simulation methods.
Experimental demonstration of the third cyclotron harmonic excitation in technological gyrotron with delayed selective feedback
Authors: Fokin A. P. , Sedov A. S. , Zuev A. S.
Published: February 2020

The excitation and effective selection of modes at high harmonics of the cyclotron frequency are experimentally demonstrated using a delayed feedback into the gyrotron. The operation at the third cyclotron harmonic at the frequency of 40.5 GHz with the output power of 3 kW and efficiency 8% is observed in a continuous wave gyrotron with an oil-cooled magnet with a field of 0.5 T in the interaction space.
Structural transitions for 2D systems with competing interactions in logarithmic traps
Authors: Xu X. B. , Wang Z. H. , Xu X. N. , Fang G. Y. , Gu M.
Published: February 2020

We propose a confinement model and study numerically the structural properties of particles with competing interactions in logarithmic traps (i.e., the confinement potential is a logarithmic function). A rich variety of cluster structures are observed as a function of trap steepness, trap size, and particle density. In addition to the consistent results with previous studies for a harmonic confinement, we observe some new stable structures, including a hybrid cluster structure consisting of clumps surrounded by a circular stripe, parallel stripes, or homogeneous voids surrounded by a ringlike arrangement of clumps, and a gear-like cluster with fringed outer rims evenly arranged along the circumference. Our work reveals that such self-organized structures arise due to the radial density reconfiguration in a finite confined system corresponding to the unconstrained systems, which is controlled by the interplay between the long-range repulsions and the attractions to the minimum of the confinement potential. Such results are likely relevant in understanding the structural properties of confined mermaid systems.
Numerical simulations reveal 3D structure of liquid while dip-coating a plate
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: February 2020

For the first time, scientists numerically study the 3D structure of a wetting transition, revealing flaws in previous theories.
Maternal periconceptional and first trimester protein restriction in beef heifers: effects on placental parameters and fetal and neonatal calf development
Authors: Copping K. J. , Hernandez-Medrano J. , Hoare A. , Hummitzsch K. , McMillen I. C. , Morrison J. L. , Rodgers R. J. , Perry V. E. A.
Published: February 2020

Few studies have investigated the effects of nutrition during the periconception and early gestation periods on fetal and placental development in cattle. In this study, nulliparous yearling heifers (n=360) were individually fed a diet high or low in protein (HPeri and LPeri) beginning 60 days before conception. From 24 to 98 days after conception, half of each treatment group was changed to the alternative high- or low-protein diet (HPost and LPost) yielding four groups in a 2×2 factorial design. A subset of heifers (n=46) was necropsied at 98 days after conception and fetoplacental development assessed. Placentome number and volume decreased in response to LPeri and LPost diets respectively. Absolute lung, pancreas, septum and ventricle weights decreased in LPost versus HPost fetuses, whereas the post-conception diet altered absolute and relative liver and brain weights depending on sex. Similarly, changes in fetal hepatic gene expression of factors regulating growth, glucose output and lipid metabolism were induced by protein restriction in a sex-specific manner. At term, neonatal calf and placental measures were not different. Protein restriction of heifers during the periconception and early gestation periods alters fetoplacental development and hepatic gene expression. These changes may contribute to functional consequences for progeny, but this may not be apparent from gross morphometry at birth.
Short-wavelength optoacoustic spectroscopy based on water muting
Authors: Prakash Jaya , Seyedebrahimi Mir Mehdi , Ghazaryan Ara , Malekzadeh-Najafabadi Jaber , Gujrati Vipul , Ntziachristos Vasilis
Published: February 2020

Infrared (IR) optoacoustic spectroscopy can separate a multitude of molecules based on their absorption spectra. However, the technique is limited when measuring target molecules in aqueous solution by strong water absorption at IR wavelengths, which reduces detection sensitivity. Based on the dependence of optoacoustic signal on the temperature of the probed medium, we introduce cooled IR optoacoustic spectroscopy (CIROAS) to mute water contributions in optoacoustic spectroscopy. We showcase that spectral measurements of proteins, lipids, and glucose in the short-wavelength IR region, performed at 4 °C, lead to marked sensitivity improvements over conventional optoacoustic or IR spectroscopy. We elaborate on the dependence of optoacoustic signals on water temperature and demonstrate polarity changes in the recorded signal at temperatures below 4 °C. We further elucidate the dependence of the optoacoustic signal and the muting temperature on sample concentration and demonstrate that changes in these dependences enable quantification of the solute concentration. We discuss how CIROAS may enhance abilities for molecular sensing in the IR.