bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoelectric Detection and Quantum Readout of Nitrogen‐Vacancy Center Spin States in Diamond
Authors: Bourgeois Emilie , Gulka Michal , Nesladek Milos
Published: April 2020

A novel method for reading out the electron spin state of the negatively charged nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) point defect in diamond, based on photoelectric detection of NV magnetic resonances (PDMR), is reviewed. As a convenient way to measure the spin state of qubits, the presented technique is anticipated to lead to a vast range of applications in the field of quantum technologies. It has been demonstrated that this method can be used both in continuous‐wave mode and for the pulse readout of coherently manipulated NV−spins. The PDMR technique presents interesting advantages over the commonly used optical detection of magnetic resonances (ODMR) and was recently downscaled to the reading out of a single NV−spin qubit. The principles, current developments, advantages, and drawbacks of PDMR are presented in this progress report. A complete to‐date methodology of NV photoelectric readout is described and PDMR is compared to ODMR. Future developments and possible improvements of the technique are mentioned. The results of the latest studies, aiming at overcoming limitations in the PDMR contrast through a better understanding of NV photo‐physics and of charge exchanges between NV centers and other electrically active defects, are discussed.
Direct Growth of Multi‐Layer Graphene on Quartz Glass for High‐Performance Broadband Neutral Density Filter Applications
Authors: Zhang Zhepeng , Zhou Fan , Yang Pengfei , Jiang Bei , Hu Jingyi , Gao Xuan , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: April 2020

2D layered materials, such as graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides, and hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN), cover a broadband in the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths ranging from hundred nanometers to millimeters. Their applications in photonic and optoelectronic nano‐devices have been demonstrated frequently, while they still need to be extended to daily life related fields. Herein, this work demonstrates a brand new application of multi‐layer graphene directly grown on quartz glass as broadband neutral density filters (NDFs). The graphene‐based NDFs present nearly wavelength‐independent transmittances over a wavelength range of 400–2500 nm, affording great optical attenuation capacity in the long‐exposure photography. This work further shows that, MoX2 (X = S, Se) and h‐BN directly grown on quartz glass can serve as optical cut‐off filters with different absorption edges located in the visible and deep‐ultraviolet ranges, respectively. The results are hereby expected to promote macroscopic optical applications of 2D layered materials and their heterostructures in high‐performance multi‐functional optical filters.
Enhanced Biophotocurrent Generation in Living Photosynthetic Optical Resonator
Authors: Roxby Daniel N. , Yuan Zhiyi , Krishnamoorthy Sankaran , Wu Pinchieh , Tu Wei‐Chen , Chang Guo‐En , Lau Raymond , Chen Yu‐Cheng
Published: April 2020

Bioenergy from photosynthetic living organisms is a potential solution for energy‐harvesting and bioelectricity‐generation issues. With the emerging interest in biophotovoltaics, extracting electricity from photosynthetic organisms remains challenging because of the low electron‐transition rate and photon collection efficiency due to membrane shielding. In this study, the concept of “photosynthetic resonator” to amplify biological nanoelectricity through the confinement of living microalgae (Chlorella sp.) in an optical micro/nanocavity is demonstrated. Strong energy coupling between the Fabry–Perot cavity mode and photosynthetic resonance offers the potential of exploiting optical resonators to amplify photocurrent generation as well as energy harvesting. Biomimetic models and living photosynthesis are explored in which the power is increased by almost 600% and 200%, respectively. Systematic studies of photosystem fluorescence and photocurrent are simultaneously carried out. Finally, an optofluidic‐based photosynthetic device is developed. It is envisaged that the key innovations proposed in this study can provide comprehensive insights in biological‐energy sciences, suggesting a new avenue to amplify electrochemical signals using an optical cavity. Promising applications include photocatalysis, photoelectrochemistry, biofuel devices, and sustainable optoelectronics.
Highly‐Safe and Ultra‐Stable All‐Flexible Gel Polymer Lithium Ion Batteries Aiming for Scalable Applications
Authors: Shen Wei , Li Ke , Lv Yangyang , Xu Tao , Wei Di , Liu Zhongfan
Published: April 2020

With the development of flexible electronics, flexible lithium ion batteries (LIBs) have received great attention. Previously, almost all reported flexible components had shortcomings related to poor mechanical flexibility, low energy density, and poor safety, which led to the failure of scalable applications. This study demonstrates a fully flexible lithium ion battery using LiCoO2 as the cathode, Li4Ti5O12 as the anode, and graphene film as the flexible current collector. The graphene oxide modified gel polymer electrolyte exhibits higher ionic conductivity than a conventional liquid electrolyte and improves the safety of the flexible battery. The optimum design of the flexible graphene battery exhibits super electrochemical performance, with a 2.3 V output voltage plateau and a satisfactory capacity of 143.0 mAh g−1 at 1 C. The mass energy density and power density are both ≈1.4 times higher than a standard electrode using metal foils as current collectors. No capacity loss is observed after 100 thousand cycles of mechanical bending. More importantly, even in the clipping state, this flexible gel polymer battery can still demonstrate a stable and safe electrochemical performance. This work may lead to a promising strategy of high‐performance scalable LIBs for the next‐generation flexible electronics.
Advanced Electrolytes for Fast‐Charging High‐Voltage Lithium‐Ion Batteries in Wide‐Temperature Range
Authors: Zhang Xianhui , Zou Lianfeng , Xu Yaobin , Cao Xia , Engelhard Mark H. , Matthews Bethany E. , Zhong Lirong , Wu Haiping , Jia Hao , Ren Xiaodi , Gao Peiyuan , Chen Zonghai , Qin Yan , Kompella Christopher , Arey Bruce W. , Li Jun , Wang Deyu , Wang Chongmin , Zhang Ji‐Guang , Xu Wu
Published: April 2020

LiNixMnyCo1−x−yO2 (NMC) cathode materials with Ni ≥ 0.8 have attracted great interest for high energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) but their practical applications under high charge voltages (e.g., 4.4 V and above) still face significant challenges due to severe capacity fading by the unstable cathode/electrolyte interface. Here, an advanced electrolyte is developed that has a high oxidation potential over 4.9 V and enables NMC811‐based LIBs to achieve excellent cycling stability in 2.5–4.4 V at room temperature and 60 °C, good rate capabilities under fast charging and discharging up to 3C rate (1C = 2.8 mA cm−2), and superior low‐temperature discharge performance down to −30 °C with a capacity retention of 85.6% at C/5 rate. It is also demonstrated that the electrode/electrolyte interfaces, not the electrolyte conductivity and viscosity, govern the LIB performance. This work sheds light on a very promising strategy to develop new electrolytes for fast‐charging high‐energy LIBs in a wide‐temperature range.
Water stress altered photosynthesis‐vegetation index relationships for winter wheat
Authors: Liu Qian , Zhang Fangmin , Chen Jiquan , Li Ying
Published: April 2020

The photosynthetic rate (Pn) of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is directly affected by water conditions, which can be effectively estimated by coupling vegetation indices (VIs). Establishing sound empirical models between VIs and Pn of winter wheat under different water conditions therefore is a sound approach for predicting Pn for broad applications. A rainout‐shelter field experiment was conducted to investigate the changes in Pn and VIs (normalized difference vegetation index [NDVI], enhanced vegetation index [EVI], ratio vegetation index [RVI], photochemical reflectance index [PRI]) under five water stress conditions. We found that: (a) heavy and moderate drought stress inhibited Pn, with their accumulated effects became more significant with the duration of treatments while the light drought stress and slight water logging produced minor effects on Pn. Heavy and moderate drought stress also caused the peak time of Pn preceded during the growth period; (b) NDVI showed low sensitivity to vegetation coverage while EVI explained more seasonal variation than other VIs when leaf area index (LAI) was >3; (c) the linear models between Pn and EVI under heavy () and moderate () water stress were selected as the best model for Pn, while a power function for Pn‐NDVI performed better under sufficient water supply (Pn = 37.982NDVI3.0101) and slight water logging (Pn = 28.024NDVI2.5646). Our results demonstrated that Pn–VI relationships varied by water stress for a winter wheat over the growing season. These results could be used for the prediction of winter wheat Pn under water stress at a large spatial scale.
Impaired Interleukin‐27–Mediated Control of CD4+ T Cell Function Impact on Ectopic Lymphoid Structure Formation in Patients With Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Lucchesi Davide , Coleby Rachel , Pontarini Elena , Prediletto Edoardo , Rivellese Felice , Hill David G. , Derrac Soria Alicia , Jones Simon A. , Humphreys Ian R. , Sutcliffe Nurhan , Tappuni Anwar R. , Pitzalis Costantino , Jones Gareth W. , Bombardieri Michele
Published: April 2020

Objective

Ectopic lymphoid structures (ELS) develop at sites of infection, autoimmunity, and cancer. In patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS), ELS support autoreactive B cell activation and lymphomagenesis. Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) is a key regulator of adaptive immunity and limits Th17 cell–driven pathology. We undertook this study to elucidate the role of IL‐27 in ELS formation and function in autoimmunity using a murine model of sialadenitis and in patients with SS.

Methods

ELS formation was induced in wild‐type and Il27ra−/− mice via salivary gland (SG) cannulation of a replication‐deficient adenovirus in the presence or absence of IL‐17A neutralization. In SG biopsy samples, IL‐27–producing cells were identified by multicolor immunofluorescence microscopy. Lesional and circulating IL‐27 levels were determined by gene expression and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The in vitro effect of IL‐27 on T cells was assessed using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting and cytokine release.

Results

In experimental sialadenitis, Il27ra−/− mice had larger and more hyperactive ELS (focus score; P < 0.001), increased autoimmunity, and an expanded Th17 response (P < 0.001), compared to wild‐type mice. IL‐17 blockade in Il27ra−/− mice suppressed the aberrant ELS response (B and T cell reduction against control; P < 0.01). SS patients displayed increased circulating IL‐27 levels (P < 0.01), and in SG biopsy samples, IL‐27 was expressed by DC‐LAMP+ dendritic cells in association with CD3+ T cells. Remarkably, in SS T cells (but not in T cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis or healthy controls), IL‐27–mediated suppression of IL‐17 secretion was severely impaired and associated with an aberrant interferon‐γ release upon IL‐27 stimulation.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that the physiologic ability of IL‐27 to limit the magnitude and function of ELS through control of Th17 cell expansion is severely impaired in SS patients, highlighting a defective immunoregulatory checkpoint in this condition.
Protective Role of Optineurin Against Joint Destruction in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts
Authors: Lee Wen Shi , Kato Masaru , Sugawara Eri , Kono Michihiro , Kudo Yuki , Kono Michihito , Fujieda Yuichiro , Bohgaki Toshiyuki , Amengual Olga , Oku Kenji , Yasuda Shinsuke , Onodera Tomohiro , Iwasaki Norimasa , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: April 2020

Objective

Optineurin (OPTN) is an autophagy adaptor/receptor that acts as an intrinsic negative regulator of osteoclast differentiation. RANKL expressed by rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) is primarily responsible for the development of bone erosions in patients with RA. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of OPTN in the pathogenesis of joint destruction in RA.

Methods

RASFs were left untreated or incubated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) or interferon‐γ (IFNγ), and expression of OPTN by RASFs was analyzed by reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western blotting. Expression of RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) was evaluated in cultures of OPTN‐reduced RASFs with or without TNF or IFNγ treatment. OPTN‐reduced RASFs were cocultured with monocytes and stained for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). IκBα, NF‐κB1, and RelA protein levels were measured to evaluate NF‐κB signaling. Expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) for matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), interleukin‐6 (IL6), GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 (CHST15), hyaluronan synthase 1 (HAS1), and GATA1 was analyzed by RT‐qPCR.

Results

In RASFs incubated with TNF or IFNγ, OPTN expression was up‐regulated and RANKL expression was increased, and these effects were further pronounced in OPTN‐reduced RASFs (all P < 0.05 versus controls). OPG mRNA levels remained unchanged. Monocytes cocultured with OPTN‐reduced RASFs differentiated to a greater extent into TRAP+ multinucleated cells compared to monocytes cocultured with control RASFs (P < 0.05). IκBα degradation and nuclear NF‐κB1 expression following TNF treatment were both prolonged in OPTN‐reduced RASFs (each P < 0.05 versus controls). MMP3 mRNA levels were up‐regulated, while GATA3, CHST15, and HAS1 mRNA levels were down‐regulated in OPTN‐reduced RASFs (each P < 0.05 versus controls).

Conclusion

OPTN plays a protective role in RA when it is up‐regulated in RASFs in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines. Absence of OPTN might worsen RA by generating a joint‐destructive state, as indicated by evidence of increased RANKL expression on RASFs and subsequent osteoclast differentiation.
Selective Solid‐Liquid Interface Sulfidation Growth of Hierarchical Copper Sulfide and Its Hybrid Nanoflakes for Superior Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Ding Ying , Huang Aoming , Xu Feng , Wang Xueyou , Wang Qingqing , Lin Huijuan , Rui Kun , Yan Yan , Shen Yu , Zhou Yanping , Zhu Jixin
Published: April 2020

Two‐dimensional metal sulfides and their hybrids are emerging as promising candidates in various areas. Yet, it remains challenging to synthesize high‐quality 2D metal sulfides and their hybrids, especially iso‐component hybrids, in a simple and controllable way. In this work, a low‐temperature selective solid‐liquid sulfidation growth method has been developed for the synthesis of CuS nanoflakes and their hybrids. CuS nanoflakes of about 20 nm thickness and co‐component hybrids CuOx/CuS with variable composition ratios derived from different sulfidation time are obtained after the residual sulfur removal. Besides, benefiting from the mild low‐temperature sulfidation conditions, selective sulfidation is realized between Cu and Fe to yield iso‐component FeOx/CuS 2D nanoflakes of about 10–20 nm thickness, whose composition ratio is readily tunable by controlling the precursor. The as‐synthesized FeOx/CuS nanoflakes demonstrate superior lithium storage performance (i. e., 707 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1 and 627 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 after 450 cycles) when tested as anode materials in LIBs owing to the advantages of the ultrathin 2D nanostructure as well as the lithiation volumetric strain self‐reconstruction effect of the co‐existing two phases during charging/discharging processes.
Peptide Stapling with Anion‐π Catalysts
Authors: Pham Anh‐Tuan , Matile Stefan
Published: April 2020

We report design, synthesis and evaluation of a series of naphthalenediimides (NDIs) that are bridged with short peptides. Reminiscent of peptide stapling technologies, the macrocycles are conveniently accessible by a chromogenic nucleophilic aromatic substitution of two bromides in the NDI core with two thiols from cysteine sidechains. The dimension of core‐bridged NDIs matches that of one turn of an α helix. NDI‐stapled peptides exist as two, often separable atropisomers. Introduction of tertiary amine bases in amino‐acid sidechains above the π‐acidic NDI surface affords operational anion‐π catalysts. According to an enolate chemistry benchmark reaction, anion‐π catalysis next to peptides occurs with record chemoselectivity but weak enantioselectivity. Catalytic activity drops with increasing distance of the amine base to the NDI surface, looser homocysteine bridges, mismatched, shortened and elongated α‐helix turns, and acyclic peptide controls. Elongation of isolated turns into short α helices significantly increases activity. This increase is consistent with remote control of anion‐π catalysis from the α‐helix macrodipole.
The effect of IFN‐β 1a on expression of MDA5 and RIG‐1 in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Asadikaram Gholamreza , Meimand Hossein Ali Ebrahimi , Noroozi Saam , Sanjari Mojgan , Zainodini Nahid , Arababadi Mohammad Kazemi
Published: April 2020

The aims of this study were to compare mRNA levels of melanoma differentiation‐associated protein 5 (MDA5) and retinoic acid‐inducible gene 1 (RIG‐1) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in comparison to the healthy controls as well as investigating the effects of IFN‐β 1a on the expression of these molecules. In this study, mRNA levels of MDA5 and RIG‐1 in peripheral leukocytes of 30 new cases of MS patients and 35 healthy controls were evaluated using the real‐time‐PCR method. mRNA levels of MDA5 and RIG‐1 were determined in the MS patients 6 months after treatment with standard doses of IFN‐β 1a. mRNA levels of MDA5 and RIG‐1 were significantly decreased in the MS patients in comparison to the healthy controls. The analysis also revealed that IFN‐β 1a therapy leads to the upregulation of RIG‐1, but not MDA5, in the total MS patients and the female group. MS patients suffer from insufficient expression of MDA5 and RIG‐1, and IFN‐β 1a therapy results in the upregulation of RIG‐1 in the patients, especially in the female patients. Thus, it seems that IFN‐β 1a not only decreased pathogenic inflammatory responses but also modulated the expression of RIG‐1 to protect the patients from infectious diseases and upregulation of IFN‐I in a positive feedback.
A Cryptic Alternative for the Evolution of Hyphae
Authors: Ivarsson Magnus , Drake Henrik , Bengtson Stefan , Rasmussen Birger
Published: April 2020

A growing awareness of a subsurface fossil record of mostly hyphal fungi organisms stretching back through the Phanerozoic to ≈400 megaannum (Ma) and possibly earlier, provides an alternative view on hyphal development. Parallel with the emergence of hyphal fungi during Ordovician–Devonian times when plants colonized the land, which is the traditional notion of hyphal evolution, hyphae‐based fungi existed in the deep biosphere. New insights suggest that the fundamental functions of hyphae may have evolved in response to an ancient subsurface endolithic life style and might have been in place before the colonization of land. To address the gaps in the current understanding of hyphal evolution a strategy based on research prospects involving investigations of uncharted geological material, new diagnostics, and comparisons to live species is proposed.
Instructor behavior associated with trainee attentiveness during behavioral training workshops: A preliminary assessment
Authors: Reid Dennis H. , Green Carolyn W.
Published: April 2020

A variable affecting the success of behavioral training workshops is the degree to which workshop instructors promote attentiveness among trainees. This study represented a preliminary assessment of trainee attentiveness associated with different types of workshop instructor behavior. Attentiveness among 298 people attending 21 training workshops was observed as instructors engaged in different categories and subcategories of behavior. Results indicated a decreasing trend in trainee attentiveness as instructors spent more time exclusively talking and talking with a slide presentation. Relatedly, trainee attentiveness was lowest when instructors were talking with and without a slide presentation relative to engaging in these plus other behaviors (asking a question, telling a story, changing instructors, showing a video, providing a participant activity, and/or expressing humor). Results are discussed in terms of behavior analysts conducting workshops in light of instructional behavior associated with high levels of trainee attentiveness and exerting caution with time spent exclusively talking and talking with slide presentations. Future research areas discussed focus on ways to further specify workshop instructor behavior that promotes or impedes trainee attentiveness.
Boosting carotenoid content inMalus domesticavar. Fuji by expressingAtDXRthrough anAgrobacterium‐mediated transformation method
Authors: Arcos Yessica , Godoy Francisca , Flores‐Ortiz Carlos , Arenas‐M Anita , Stange Claudia
Published: April 2020

Apple (Malus domestica) fruits accumulate negligible levels of carotenoids, antioxidant pigments that are precursors for vitamin A in humans. As vitamin A deficiency is an important public health issue, we aimed at increasing carotenoids in apple by constitutively expressing theArabidopsis thaliana DXRgene, one of the key regulatory steps in the plastidial isoprenoid pathway. For this purpose, we optimized anAgrobacterium‐mediated transformation method in the commercial Fuji Raku Raku variety. This resulted in a shoot establishment efficiency of 0.75% at 20 weeks after infection. Molecular and microscopical analyses revealed that 80% of the hygromycin resistant shoots contained and expressedAtDXR:eGFPand that the AtDXR:eGFP fusion protein located in plastids. Transgenic seedlings displayed up to 3‐fold increase in total carotenoids and in individual carotenoids compared to the WT, correlating with an increased transcript abundance of endogenous carotenogenic genes such asMdDXS, MdPSY1, MdPSY2, MdPSY3, MdLCYB1, andMdLCYB2. In addition, buds of 2‐year‐old transgenic dormant trees showed an increment up to 3‐fold in lutein, and transient transformation of fruits revealed thatAtDXRinduced a 2‐fold increment in total carotenoids. Thus, these results suggest thatDXRmay be a good candidate for increasing carotenoid levels in apple fruits through metabolic engineering.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder and related factors among female victims of sexual assault required to attend a University Hospital in Turkey: A cross‐sectional cohort study
Authors: Karataş Reyhan Dağ , Altınöz Ali Ercan , Eşsizoğlu Altan
Published: April 2020

Background

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common consequences of sexual assault, but it is not invariable.

Aim

Our aim was to investigate pre‐, peri‐ and post‐traumatic factors associated with post‐traumatic stress disorder among adult women who had been sexually assaulted.

Methods

All women attending a specialist university clinic for victims of sexual assault referred by the courts for a mental health assessment were invited to participate. At the time, the Turkish penal code required such referral (the year up to September 2015). Consenting women completed a sociodemographic information form, the Traumatic Stress Symptom Checklist, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Short Form‐36 reflecting perceived quality of life, the Beck Depression Scale and the Beck Anxiety Scale.

Results

Sixty women were eligible and agreed to participate. Two‐thirds of them (41, 68%) reported features of PTSD. In bivariate analyses, the women with PTSD also rated themselves as having a wide range of health and social disadvantages. Self‐perceived poverty of social support and having suicidal thoughts were independently associated with PTSD.

Conclusions

Although the rate of mental health and social problems among the women with PTSD were high, less than a third had actually sought help for their difficulties. While a requirement in the penal code that such women should have a psychiatric assessment seems over‐intrusive and has since been dropped, our findings suggest that more efforts should be made to ensure that such women have help available if they want it.
Early detection of velamentous cord insertion at the eighth week of gestation
Authors: Liao Caiyun , Peregrin‐Alvarez Irene , Roman Robert , Morris Joshua , Detti Laura
Published: April 2020

Velamentous cord insertion can be diagnosed at 8 weeks of gestation, earlier than previously reported. Fetal surveillance may be informed and prognosis may be impacted by early diagnosis once viability is reached.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a rare cause of pituitary stalk thickening
Authors: Faje Alexander
Published: April 2020

This case highlights a rare presentation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CNS involvement by CLL is rare, and only 5 cases with pituitary or hypothalamic involvement have previously been reported. Unfamiliarity with this disease complication may lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.This case highlights a rare presentation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CNS involvement by CLL is rare, and only 5 cases with pituitary or hypothalamic involvement have previously been reported. Unfamiliarity with this disease complication may lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Effect of High Temperature on Swellable Organically Modified Silica (SOMS) and Its Application for Preferential CO Oxidation in H2 Rich Environment
Authors: Basu Dishari , Ailawar Saurabh , Celik Gokhan , Edmiston Paul , Ozkan Umit S.
Published: April 2020

Transition metal oxide catalysts tend to deactivate in the presence of moisture during hydrogen purification using preferential oxidation (PROX) of carbon monoxide (CO) . Thus, novel water‐tolerant catalysts need to be developed. Herein, the evolution of heat treated swellable organically‐modified silica (SOMS), a hydrophobic organic‐inorganic hybrid material, has been characterized and applied as a catalyst support for PROX under moisture‐rich conditions. While the SOMS‐supported cobalt manganese oxide was found to be inactive, drastic improvement in CO conversion was observed for heat treated SOMS (HSOMS) supported catalysts. From thermogravimetric analysis and NMR spectroscopy it was found that SOMS retains its structural properties and hydrophobicity up to 400 °C. The performance of these catalysts was improved upon using toluene as the impregnation solvent, which enhanced the support wettability and improved active site deposition. The catalyst supported on HSOMS‐400 was found to be more water tolerant than a silica‐supported catalyst due to Si−O−Si(CH3)3 groups retained from hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) derivatization of SOMS.
Applications of mixture experiments for response surface methodology implementation in analytical methods development
Authors: Azcarate Silvana M. , Pinto Licarion , Goicoechea Héctor C.
Published: April 2020

This review presents applications of response surface methodology (RSM) when mixture experiments are involved for the optimization in the field of analytical methods development. Several critical issues such as sort of designs, modeling with least squares or artificial neural networks, and multiple response optimization are discussed. The results of a literature survey of the works reported up to 2019 are presented. Finally, an illustrative example providing the necessary information to carry out this kind of work is discussed. A list of the most popular software available to apply RSM is also presented.
Soil compaction problems and subsoiling effects on potato crops: A review
Authors: Ghosh Upasana , Daigh Aaron L.M.
Published: April 2020

Subsoil compaction is universally known to have negative impacts on crop production. These impacts are prominent in modern mechanized systems that rely on extensive use of heavy field machinery. Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an intensively managed crop with yields often limited by subsoil compaction and tillage pans. The mechanical loosening of compacted soil via subsoiling is often believed to be a useful method to enhance root elongation and improve a crop's ability to access deeper soil water. This is particularly important for potato because it is relatively more sensitive to water stress than many other crops. However, the outcome of subsoiling in potato systems is variable. Here we provide a concise and focused review on (a) the causes and problems of subsoil compaction in potato production, (b) the effectiveness of subsoiling as a remediation strategy, and (c) alternative strategies and directions for future research. The effects of subsoiling on potato tuber yield and quality, root development, water availability, and soil physical properties are summarized. The problem of soil reconsolidation after subsoiling and alternative methods to subsoiling are also discussed, in brief, to provide solutions. From the published literature, we conclude that potato yield and quality benefits from subsoiling are rare, temporary, and highly inconsistent. The only exception is when moisture is known to be the major limiting factor in a field. Alternative methods, such as controlled traffic and biological drilling, have potential to aid in remediating fields with subsoil compaction and minimizing future reoccurrence. These alternative methods need further research to identify points for optimization within potato systems and confounding conditions that may limit their potential as an effective tool for producers.
Stapled Peptides as HIF‐1α/p300 Inhibitors: Helicity Enhancement in the Bound State Increases Inhibitory Potency
Authors: Hetherington Kristina , Hegedus Zsofia , Edwards Thomas A. , Sessions Richard B. , Nelson Adam , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: April 2020

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) control virtually all cellular processes and have thus emerged as potential targets for development of molecular therapeutics. Peptide‐based inhibitors of PPIs are attractive given that they offer recognition potency and selectivity features that are ideal for function, yet, they do not predominantly populate the bioactive conformation, frequently suffer from poor cellular uptake and are easily degraded, for example, by proteases. The constraint of peptides in a bioactive conformation has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate against these liabilities. In this work, using peptides derived from hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 (HIF‐1α) together with dibromomaleimide stapling, we identify constrained peptide inhibitors of the HIF‐1α/p300 interaction that are more potent than their unconstrained sequences. Contrary to expectation, the increased potency does not correlate with an increased population of an α‐helical conformation in the unbound state as demonstrated by experimental circular dichroism analysis. Rather, the ability of the peptide to adopt a bioactive α‐helical conformation in the p300 bound state is better supported in the constrained variant as demonstrated by molecular dynamics simulations and circular dichroism difference spectra.
Room‐Temperature Laser Synthesis in Liquid of Oxide, Metal‐Oxide Core‐Shells, and Doped Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Amendola Vincenzo , Amans David , Ishikawa Yoshie , Koshizaki Naoto , Scirè Salvatore , Compagnini Giuseppe , Reichenberger Sven , Barcikowski Stephan
Published: April 2020

Although oxide nanoparticles are ubiquitous in science and technology, a multitude of compositions, phases, structures, and doping levels exist, each one requiring a variety of conditions for their synthesis and modification. Besides, experimental procedures are frequently dominated by high temperatures or pressures and by chemical contaminants or waste. In recent years, laser synthesis of colloids emerged as a versatile approach to access a library of clean oxide nanoparticles relying on only four main strategies running at room temperature and ambient pressure: laser ablation in liquid, laser fragmentation in liquid, laser melting in liquid and laser defect‐engineering in liquid. Here, established laser‐based methodologies are reviewed through the presentation of a panorama of oxide nanoparticles which include pure oxidic phases, as well as unconventional structures like defective or doped oxides, non‐equilibrium compounds, metal‐oxide core–shells and other anisotropic morphologies. So far, these materials showed several useful properties that are discussed with special emphasis on catalytic, biomedical and optical application. Yet, given the endless number of mixed compounds accessible by the laser‐assisted methodologies, there is still a lot of room to expand the library of nano‐crystals and to refine the control over products as well as to improve the understanding of the whole process of nanoparticle formation. To that end, this review aims to identify the perspectives and unique opportunities of laser‐based synthesis and processing of colloids for future studies of oxide nanomaterial‐oriented sciences.
Effizienz, die belebt
Authors:   Thorsten Sienck freier Fachjournalist für Aerzener Maschinenfabrik
Published: April 2020

Am Beispiel der Kläranlage Oberschleißheim zeigt der Gebläsespezialist Aerzen, wie ein für die Wasser‐ und Abwasseraufbereitung konzipierter Performance3‐Technologiemix für mehr Effizienz, weniger Kosten und saubereres Abwasser sorgt. Wie das in der Praxis funktioniert, stellt dieser Beitrag vor.
Therapist effects vary significantly across psychological treatment care sectors
Authors: Firth Nick , Saxon David , Stiles William B. , Barkham Michael
Published: April 2020

Psychological intervention outcomes depend in part on the therapist who provides the intervention (a therapist effect). However, recent reviews suggest that therapist effects may vary as a function of the context in which care is provided and therefore should not be generalized beyond that context. This study statistically analysed therapist effect differences between care sectors delivering psychological interventions. The sample comprised routine clinical data from 26,814 patients (69% female; mean age 38) and 466 therapists in five care sectors: primary care, secondary care, university, voluntary, and workplace. Therapist effects were analysed using multilevel models and Markov chain Monte Carlo credible intervals. The therapist effect was significantly larger in primary care (8.4%) than in any other sector (1.1%–2.3%) except secondary care (4.1%), after controlling for explanatory baseline and process variables as well as accounting for differences between clinics. There were no other significant differences detected between care sectors. These findings support the hypothesis that differences in effectiveness between therapists vary depending on the context in which psychological treatment is provided. Differences in relative therapist impact can vary by a factor of 4–8 across treatment sectors. This should be considered in the application of research evidence, treatment planning, and the design and delivery of psychological care provision.
Morphology and Optical Properties of Precipitated Vivianite, Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O
Authors: Madsen Hans Erik Lundager
Published: April 2020

Crystals of vivianite, Fe3(PO4)2∙8H2O, belonging to the monoclinic prismatic class 2/m, are grown by precipitation from aqueous solution at temperatures from 25 to 56 °C. At 25 °C aggregates are dominating, but at 35 °C and above single crystals are more common, being tabular along {010} and most often with parallelogram outline; in a few cases twins are observed. The outline is distinct and consistent with published lattice parameters, but at low temperature the {010} faces are very rough as judged from interference colors seen in the polarizing microscope. Lateral faces belonging to the {110} form are visible on crystals grown at 45 and 56 °C, and the widths of their projections on {010} as measured with a micrometer eyepiece served for estimating crystal thickness, making use of the face angle from lattice parameters. Optical parameters are determined by a combination of three methods: 1) measurement of birefringence with an Ehringhaus 6λ compensator, 2) Kamb's method for the optic axis angle determined by the angle‐of‐flight method in conoscopic illumination, and 3) visual interferometry using a polarizing microscope incorporating a Mach–Zehnder interference device. Reasonably precise values of principal refractive indices in the expected range are found.
Au–Ag–Al Nano‐Alloy Thin Films as an Advanced Material for Photonic Applications: XPS Analysis, Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties Under CW Regime
Authors: Abu‐Safe Husam H. , Al‐Esseili Razan , El‐Nasser Husam , Sarollahi Mirsaeid , Refaei Malak , Zamani‐Alavijeh Mohammad , Naseem Hameed , Ware Morgan E.
Published: April 2020

The compositional and optical properties of an aluminum‐based transition‐metal alloy system (Au–Ag–Al) as an advanced material for photonic applications are investigated. The system is fabricated by sequentially evaporating thin layers of gold, silver, and aluminum. The thickness of Al is varied to reflect different percentages in the alloyed films. Alloying of the metals is confirmed from the shifts in the electronic binding energy of the pure elements through X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The current–voltage measurements demonstrate good ohmic conductivity in the films and the optical properties are obtained by standard absorption and z‐scan techniques. Plasmonic peaks are observed in the alloyed system related to the participating metals. The thermal nonlinear optical response is conducted in the continuous wave (CW) regime. The films show large values for the thermo‐optical coefficient ( which results in high values (≈10−3 cm2 W−1) for the third‐order nonlinear coefficient (). A discussion of these values and their impact on the application of thin alloyed metals is presented.
Tuning of Ionic Second Coordination Sphere in Evolved Rhenium Catalyst for Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven CO2 Reduction
Authors: Chen Kai‐Hong , Wang Ning , Yang Zhi‐Wen , Xia Shu‐Mei , He Liang‐Nian
Published: April 2020

Developing an efficient and easy‐to‐handle strategy in designing catalysts for CO2 reduction into CO by harnessing sunlight is a promising project. Here, a facile strategy was developed to design a Re catalyst modified with an ionic secondary coordination sphere for photoreduction of CO2 to CO by visible light. By adding ionic liquids or tuning a different ionic secondary coordination sphere, it was discovered that an outstanding optical property, other than CO2 absorption ability or the ability to dissociation of chloride anion, is the prerequisite for catalyst design. Accordingly, a novel Re catalyst, {Re[BpyMe(tris(2‐hydroxyethyl)amine)](CO)3Cl}Br (Re‐THEA), was designed, screened, and resulted in a relative high quantum yield (up to 34 %) for visible‐light‐induced CO2 reduction with a single‐molecule system. DFT calculations, combined with experimental outcomes, suggested the pendant ionic tris(2‐hydroxyethyl)amino (THEA) group on Re‐THEA can enhance visible‐light absorption, stabilize reaction intermediates, and suppress the Re–Re dimer formation.
An improved charge‐sharing elimination pseudo‐domino logic
Authors: Ghimiray Sapna Rani , Meher Preetisudha , Dutta Pranab Kishore
Published: April 2020

In low‐power digital circuit, the deviation of node voltage from nominal value due to charge‐sharing leads to erroneous output. This problem is more prominent in domino logic when the device is scaled down. The scaling of the device involves scaling of threshold voltage, resulting in high leakage, less robustness and degradation in noise margin. The paper proposes an improved domino approach in terms of reduced leakage, low power dissipation and better noise margin. The stacking effect and pseudo buffer are used in precharge phase to control the gate‐to‐source voltage of pull‐down network for less power consumption and increase in performance in terms of speed of operation. A modified keeper is introduced to reduce the charge‐sharing problem. The proposed domino approach is tested against area overhead, ageing and process, voltage and temperature variation. The circuit is simulated using Cadence Virtuoso Spectre for 90 nm technology. The results obtained from the simulation represent the usefulness of the proposed circuit in terms of power dissipation, stability due to temperature variation, leakage due to temperature variation and delay. The result also shows that the circuit is less prone to charge redistribution problem that exist in domino circuit.
Investigation of the dependency of JET midplane separatrix density as a function of engineering parameters
Authors: Balbin‐Arias Julio J. , Bucalossi Jerome , Bufferand Hugo , Ciraolo Guido ,   EUROFusion JET Team
Published: April 2020

Midplane separatrix density is a crucial parameter in tokamaks since it strongly impacts divertor conditions. Scaling midplane separatrix density, ne, SEP, and pedestal density, ne, PED, as function of engineering parameters such as auxiliary heating Pinjected, toroidal magnetic field BT, and plasma poloidal current Ip are relevant to observe the effect of tuning these parameters on, for example, quality of confinement and divertor regime governed by ne, PED and ne, SEP, respectively. Thus, a dataset of JET H‐mode pulses performed with Iter like wall (ILW) has been analysed. Midplane density data are collected from an HRTS (high‐resolution Thomson scattering) diagnostic and ne, SEP is determined using the power balance method. Parallel heat flux model is chosen using transport code SOLEDGE2D (S2D) applying power balance method over a simulated ne, SEP and Te, SEP profiles to obtain separatrix positions. The parameters are averaged over time windows with order of (85–185 ms) and the magnetic configuration has been fixed to avoid divertor geometrical effect on ne, SEP determination, configuration chosen is corner–corner. A ratio between separatrix density and pedestal density at outer midplane ranges between 0.3 and 0.7 on the data set. A scaling law of ne, SEP/ne, PED is obtained as function of Pinjected, BT, and IP.
Changes in blood parameters after intramuscular testosterone ester injections – Implications for anti‐doping
Authors: Solheim Sara Amalie , Mørkeberg Jakob , Dehnes Yvette , Hullstein Ingunn , Juul Anders , Upners Emmie N. , Nordsborg Nikolai Baastrup
Published: April 2020

Testosterone treatment stimulates the production of red blood cells and alters iron homeostasis. Thus, we investigated whether the ‘haematological module’ of the athlete biological passport (ABP) used by the World Anti‐Doping Agency can be used to indicate misuse of testosterone. Nineteen eugonadal men received intramuscular injections of either 250 mg Sustanon®, a blend of four testosterone esters, or placebo on days 0 and 21 in a randomized, placebo‐controlleddouble‐blind design. Urine samples and blood samples were collected twice pre‐treatment, at least 5 days apart, and on days 1, 3, 5, 10 and 14 post‐injections to assess steroidal and haematological biomarkers of the ABP. The steroidal profile was flagged suspicious in all Sustanon®‐treated subjects, whereas the haematological profile was flagged suspicious in six out of nine subjects. When both sensitivity and specificity were considered, reticulocyte percentage (RET%) appeared as the best marker of the haematological module for implying testosterone ester misuse. Atypical blood passport samples were used to select time points for further isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) analysis of testosterone and its metabolites in simultaneously collected urine. In addition to the testosterone (T) to epitestosterone (E) ratio, the RET% and OFF‐Score could help identify suspicious samples for more targeted IRMS testing. The results demonstrate that unexpected fluctuations in RET% can indicate testosterone doping if samples are collected 3–10 days after injection. From an anti‐doping perspective, the haematological and steroidal modules of the ABP should complement each other when planning targeted follow‐up testing and substantiating likely misuse of testosterone.
The effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on food choice‐related self‐control in patients with severe, enduring anorexia nervosa
Authors: Dalton Bethan , Foerde Karin , Bartholdy Savani , McClelland Jessica , Kekic Maria , Grycuk Luiza , Campbell Iain C. , Schmidt Ulrike , Steinglass Joanna E.
Published: April 2020

Objective

Individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) pursue low‐fat, low‐calorie diets even when in a state of emaciation. These maladaptive food choices may involve fronto‐limbic circuitry associated with cognitive control, habit, and reward. We assessed whether high‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) influenced food‐related choice behavior in patients with severe, enduring (SE)‐AN.

Method

Thirty‐four females with SE‐AN completed a Food Choice Task before and after 20 sessions of real or sham rTMS treatment and at a 4‐month follow‐up. During the task, participants rated high‐ and low‐fat food items for healthiness and tastiness and then made a series of choices between a neutral‐rated food and high‐ and low‐fat foods. Outcomes included the proportion of high‐fat and self‐controlled choices made. A comparison group of 30 healthy women completed the task at baseline only.

Results

Baseline data were consistent with previous findings: relative to healthy controls, SE‐AN participants showed a preference for low‐fat foods and exercised self‐control on a greater proportion of trials. There was no significant effect of rTMS treatment nor time on food choices related to fat content. However, among SE‐AN participants who received real rTMS, there was a decrease in self‐controlled food choices at post‐treatment, relative to baseline. Specifically, there was an increase in the selection of tasty‐unhealthy foods.

Discussion

In SE‐AN, rTMS may promote more flexibility in relation to food choice. This may result from neuroplastic changes in the DLPFC and/or in associated brain areas.
A database for inventory of proteoform profiles: “2DE‐pattern”
Authors: Naryzhny Stanislav , Klopov Nikolay , Ronzhina Natalia , Zorina Elena , Zgoda Victor , Kleyst Olga , Belyakova Natalia , Legina Olga
Published: April 2020

The human proteome is composed of a diverse and heterogeneous range of gene products/proteoforms/protein species. Because of the growing amount of information about proteoforms generated by different methods, we need a convenient approach to make an inventory of the data. Here, we present a database of proteoforms that is based on information obtained by separation of proteoforms using 2DE followed by shotgun ESI–LC–MS/MS. The database's principles and structure are described. The database is called “2DE‐pattern” as it contains multiple isoform‐centric patterns of proteoforms separated according to 2DE principles. The database can be freely used at http://2de-pattern.pnpi.nrcki.ru.