bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological and pathological skeletal muscle T1 changes quantified using a fast inversion-recovery radial NMR imaging sequence
Authors: Marty Benjamin , Carlier Pierre G.
Published: May 2019

We investigated the response of skeletal muscle global T1 under different physiological and pathological conditions using an inversion-recovery radial T1 mapping sequence. Thirty five healthy volunteers, seven patients with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) and seven patients with sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM) were investigated in order to evaluate the effects of gender, age, muscle group, exercise and pathological processes on global T1 values. In addition, the intramuscular fat content was measured using 3-point Dixon and the global T2 and water T2 (T2H2O) were determined with a multi-spin-echo sequence. In the muscles of healthy volunteers, there was no impact of age on global T1. However, we measured a significant effect of sex and muscle group. After exercise, a significant 7.7% increase of global T1 was measured in the recruited muscles, and global T1 variations were highly correlated to T2H2O variations (R = 0.91). In pathologies, global T1 values were reduced in fat infiltrated muscles. When fat fraction was taken into account, global T1 values were higher in IBM patients compared to BMD. Global T1 variations are a sensitive indicator of tissue changes in skeletal muscle related to several physiological and pathological events.
Molecular insight into the lower critical solution temperature transition of aqueous alkyl phosphonium benzene sulfonates
Authors: Kang Hyungmook , Suich David E. , Davies James F. , Wilson Aaron D. , Urban Jeffrey J. , Kostecki Robert
Published: May 2019

Ionic liquid (IL)-water mixtures can exhibit a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) transition, but changes in long-range order and local molecular environment during this transition are not comprehensively understood. Here we show that in IL-H2O LCST mixtures, the IL forms loosely held aggregate structures that grow in size leading up to a critical temperature, whereas the aggregation of a fully miscible aqueous mixture, obtained by minor chemical modification of the anion, decreases with increasing temperature. Radial distribution functions from molecular dynamics simulations support the observation of aggregation phenomena in the IL-H2O mixtures. A local molecular structure of the ions is derived from multi-dimensional NMR experiments in conjunction with reported molecular dynamics simulations. In addition to considerable shifts of water’s hydrogen bonding network in the fully miscible phase, by NMR we observe the anion’s protons response to the intermolecular thermal environment and the intramolecular environment and find that the responses are determined by the sulfonate ionic functional group.
Pressure-induced magnetovolume effect in CoCrFeAl high-entropy alloy
Authors: Liu Lei , Huang Shuo , Vitos Levente , Dong Minjie , Bykova Elena , Zhang Dongzhou , Almqvist Bjarne S. G. , Ivanov Sergey , Rubensson Jan-Erik , Varga Bela , Varga Lajos K. , Lazor Peter
Published: May 2019

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) composed of multiple-principal elements with (nearly) equimolar ratio establish a new conceptual framework for alloy design and hold a promise for extensive applications in industry, akin to the controlled expansion alloys (CEAs), such as Invar alloys. Spontaneously, one question emerges - would it be possible to synthesize a novel class of alloys combining the virtues of both CEAs and HEAs? Here, we report the pressure-induced magnetovolume effect in the body-centered-cubic CoCrFeAl HEA coupled with magnetic phase transitions from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic, and to non-magnetic states, originating from the successive collapses of local magnetic moments of Co and Fe. The observed magnetovolume anomalies, occurring in a progressive way, tailor appreciably the coefficient of thermal expansion of CoCrFeAl. These results further strengthen HEAs’ anticipated potential for designing multifunctional materials in virtue of their multiple outstanding properties, and reveal possible routes for their future synthesis.
Correction: Scaffold mediated gene knockdown for neuronal differentiation of human neural progenitor cells
Authors: Chooi Wai Hon , Ong William , Murray Aoife , Lin Junquan , Nizetic Dean , Chew Sing Yian
Published: May 2019

Correction for ‘Scaffold mediated gene knockdown for neuronal differentiation of human neural progenitor cells’ by Wai Hon Chooi et al., Biomater. Sci., 2018, 6, 3019–3029.
Evaluation of the novel substrate RUG™ for the detection ofEscherichia coliin water from temperate (Zurich, Switzerland) and tropical (Bushenyi, Uganda) field sites
Authors: Genter Franziska , Marks Sara J. , Clair-Caliot Guillaume , Mugume Deo S. , Johnston Richard B. , Bain Robert E. S. , Julian Timothy R.
Published: May 2019

The assessment of a novel enzyme-based assay showed it to be reliable to detect and quantifyE. coliin water.
Fermented carrot juice attenuates type 2 diabetes by mediating gut microbiota in rats
Authors: Hu Rongkang , Zeng Feng , Wu Linxiu , Wan Xuzhi , Chen Yongfang , Zhang Jiachao , Liu Bin
Published: May 2019

Carrot juice fermented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, enriched with free phenolics, organic acids and short-chain fatty acid, has the potential to ameliorate type 2 diabetes, in part through modulating specific gut microbiota and regulating the mRNA and protein expressions levels involved in glucose metabolism.
Inhibitors of inosine 5′-monophosphate dehydrogenase as emerging new generation antimicrobial agents
Authors: Juvale Kapil , Shaik Althaf , Kirubakaran Sivapriya
Published: May 2019

Inosine 5′-monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) is a vital enzyme involved in thede novosynthesis of guanine nucleotides. Inhibitors of bacterial IMPDH hold great potential as new generation antimicrobial agents.
Highly efficient plasmon-mediated electron injection into cerium oxide from embedded silver nanoparticles
Authors: Pelli Cresi Jacopo Stefano , Spadaro Maria Chiara , D'Addato Sergio , Valeri Sergio , Benedetti Stefania , Di Bona Alessandro , Catone Daniele , Di Mario Lorenzo , O'Keeffe Patrick , Paladini Alessandra , Bertoni Giovanni , Luches Paola
Published: May 2019

LSPRs in Ag nanoparticles decay through a highly efficient charge injection into the 4f levels of the cerium oxide matrix.
Switching plasmonic Fano resonance in gold nanosphere–nanoplate heterodimers
Authors: Lu Wenzheng , Cui Ximin , Chow Tsz Him , Shao Lei , Wang Hao , Chen Huanjun , Wang Jianfang
Published: May 2019

Reversible switching of plasmonic Fano resonance is realized on gold nanosphere–nanoplate heterodimers by integrating a polyaniline layer.
Highly efficient white electroluminescent devices with hybrid double emitting layers of quantum dots and phosphorescent molecules
Authors: Oh Seongkeun , Han Chang-Yeol , Yang Heesun , Kim Jiwan
Published: May 2019

Hybrid quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) with double emitting layers (EMLs) were developed to achieve highly efficient white emission.
Large-scale and fast synthesis of nano-hydroxyapatite powder by a microwave-hydrothermal method
Authors: Cai Zhengwei , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Zongrui , Han Yingchao , Luo Jing , Huang Mingzheng , Zhang BoWen , Hou Yuanjing
Published: May 2019

The obtained nano-HAP still has high crystallinity, uniform size and good dispersibility when the concentration of Na2HPO4 is 0.4 mol L−1.
The magnetism of 1T-MX2 (M = Zr, Hf; X = S, Se) monolayers by hole doping
Authors: Xiang Hui , Xu Bo , Zhao Weiqian , Xia Yidong , Yin Jiang , Zhang Xiaofei , Liu Zhiguo
Published: May 2019

The magnetism of zirconium and hafnium dichalcogenides by hole doping is studied by using first principles calculations.
Prebiotic effects of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) fiber on cecal bacterial composition, short-chain fatty acids, and diarrhea incidence in weaning piglets
Authors: Adams Seidu , Xiangjie Kong , Hailong Jiang , Guixin Qin , Sossah Fredrick Leo , Dongsheng Che
Published: May 2019

Dietary alfalfa fiber (AF) is conceived to modulate gut microbial richness and diversity to improve the health and growth of weaning piglets.
Formation and characterization of polytetrafluoroethylene nanofiber membranes for high-efficiency fine particulate filtration
Authors: Xu Huan , Jin Wangyong , Wang Feng , Liu Guojin , Li Chengcai , Wang Jieqi , Zhu Hailin , Guo Yuhai
Published: May 2019

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) porous membranes are widely used for high-temperature filtration.
Correction: Mechanism unravelling for ultrafast and selective 99TcO4− uptake by a radiation-resistant cationic covalent organic framework: a combined radiological experiment and molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: He Linwei , Liu Shengtang , Chen Long , Dai Xing , Li Jie , Zhang Mingxing , Ma Fuyin , Zhang Chao , Yang Zaixing , Zhou Ruhong , Chai Zhifang , Wang Shuao
Published: May 2019

Correction for ‘Mechanism unravelling for ultrafast and selective 99TcO4− uptake by a radiation-resistant cationic covalent organic framework: a combined radiological experiment and molecular dynamics simulation study’ by Linwei He et al., Chem. Sci., 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9sc00172g.
Metal–organic framework-derived hierarchical MoS2/CoS2 nanotube arrays as pH-universal electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution
Authors: Tang Baoshan , Yu Zhi Gen , Zhang Yaoxin , Tang Chunhua , Seng Hwee Leng , Seh Zhi Wei , Zhang Yong-Wei , Pennycook Stephen John , Gong Hao , Yang Weifeng
Published: May 2019

The rational design of novel hierarchical MoS2/CoS2 heterogeneous nanotube arrays as self-supported and pH-universal electrocatalysts for efficient HER.
Engineering one-dimensional and hierarchical PtFe alloy assemblies towards durable methanol electrooxidation
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Tian Xin Long , Xu Yangyang , Zaman Shahid , Qi Kai , Liu Hongfang , Xia Bao Yu
Published: May 2019

Hierarchical PtFe alloy in one-dimensional architectures demonstrate both high activity and durability for methanol electrooxidation due to the synergistic advantages of the integrated structure and composition.
New reduced-temperature ceramic fuel cells with dual-ion conducting electrolyte and triple-conducting double perovskite cathode
Authors: Zhou Chuan , Sunarso Jaka , Song Yufei , Dai Jie , Zhang Junxing , Gu Binbin , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: May 2019

New reduced-temperature ceramic fuel cells with dual-ion conducting electrolyte and triple conducting double perovskite cathode.
Intestine-penetrating, pH-sensitive and double-layered nanoparticles for oral delivery of doxorubicin with reduced toxicity
Authors: Sun Min , Li Dapeng , Wang Xin , He Le , Lv Xiaodong , Xu Yong , Tang Rupei
Published: May 2019

Herein, CMC-coated double-layered nanoparticles were prepared to induce the oral toxicity of doxorubicin via the intestinal absorption effect.
cAMP-modulated biomimetic ionic nanochannels based on a smart polymer
Authors: Chen Zhixiang , Sun Taolei , Qing Guangyan
Published: May 2019

Dynamic gating behaviour of ionic nanochannel is precisely manipulated by cyclic 3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) by taking advantage of reversible conformational transition of the smart polymer chains in response to cAMP specific adsorption, which provides a new idea for developing smart nanochannels regulated by crucial signal-biomolecules.
Impact of Tai Chi Exercise on Balance Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huang Hsin-Wei , Nicholson Nannette , Thomas Sheila
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Tai chi is receiving increasing research attention with its benefit of improving flexibility and balance. The objective of this review was to examine the evidence concerning the impact of tai chi as a practical therapy for vestibular rehabilitation on individuals with balance and vestibular disorders.

Method

A systematic review using 4 electronic databases was conducted. Randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies were included.

Results

Four studies met the inclusion criteria and were included for data analysis. Results indicate positive effect of tai chi practice on dynamic postural stability in balance of its practitioners.

Conclusion

Tai chi may be a useful therapy as for vestibular rehabilitation as it improves dynamic balance control and flexibility of individuals with balance and vestibular disorders.
Centre frequency and BW reconfigurable multi‐mode band‐pass filter with independently tunable TZs
Authors: Pandit Nidhi , Pathak Nagendra Prasad
Published: May 2019

This study reports the design, development and analysis of centre frequency and bandwidth (BW) reconfigurable multi‐mode band‐pass filter with independently tunable transmission zeroes (TZs). The designed filter can tune lower TZ () from 1.66 to 1.88 GHz (220 MHz) with lower‐side BW tuning range 200–400 MHz and upper TZ () from 2.32 to 2.48 GHz (120 MHz) with upper BW tuning range 430–630 MHz. The centre frequency of the designed filter can be tuned from 1.98 to 2.04 GHz (60 MHz). For the entire tuning range, the insertion loss of the designed filter is around 1.4–2.3 dB and return loss is better than 10 dB within the pass‐band.
Die neue (Muster-)Weiterbildungsordnung 2018 für das Fachgebiet Physikalische und Rehabilitative Medizin
Authors: Liebl Max Emanuel , Beyer Joachim , Deventer Angela , Glaesener Jean Jacques , Lange Uwe , Lemhöfer Christina , Mau Wilfried , Pioch Erdmute , Reißhauer Anett , Schwarzkopf Susanne Roswitha , Smolenski Ulrich Christian , Winkelmann Andreas , Gutenbrunner Christoph
Published: May 2019

Der Vorstand der Bundesärztekammer hat auf der Basis der Beschlüsse der Deutschen Ärztetage die neue (Muster-)Weiterbildungsordnung (MWBO) verabschiedet. Die MWBO des Fachgebietes Physikalische und Rehabilitative Medizin wurde dabei von der gemeinsamen Arbeitsgruppe Weiterbildung von DGPRM und BVPRM mitgestaltet. Inhaltliche Hauptziele der Novellierung waren dabei die Stärkung der akutmedizinischen sowie der sozialmedizinischen Kompetenz des PRM-Facharztes. Konzeptuell stand die Abbildung der Weiterbildung in Form von Kompetenzen im Vordergrund. Auch die Zusatzweiterbildungen Physikalische Therapie, Balneologie und Medizinische Klimatologie sowie Rehabilitationswesen wurden reformiert. Die rechtlich verbindlichen Weiterbildungsordnungen werden auf Ebene der Landesärztekammern implementiert.
Insulin Resistance in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes is Associated with Lower Vitamin D Serum Concentration
Authors: Kamiński Mikołaj , Uruska Aleksandra , Rogowicz-Frontczak Anita , Lipski Dawid , Niedźwiecki Paweł , Różańska Olga , Skonieczna Paulina , Michalska Anna , Flotyńska Justyna , Araszkiewicz Aleksandra , Uruski Paweł , Pawlak Regina , Zozulińska-Ziółkiewicz Dorota
Published: May 2019

Aim Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a disease characterized by an absolute deficiency of endogenous insulin secretion. Insulin resistance (IR) may develop among patients with T1DM. Vitamin D deficiency was reported to be a risk factor in the development of IR. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and IR among patients with T1DM.

Methods The test group consisted of 110 adult patients [males=65 (59%)] with T1DM. Participants were recruited in Poland between 1st October and 30th April in 2015/2016 and 2016/2017. VD serum level was assessed by ELISA array. IR was assessed by estimated Glucose Disposal Rate (eGDR).

Results In the study group 21 (19%) patients were recognized as IR according to eGDR cut-offs (<7.5 mg/kg/min), 52 (47.3%) patients had VD deficiency (25(OH)D<20 ng/ml), 16 (14.5%) patients had 25(OH)D<10 ng/ml. Only 6 (5%) participants reported VD supplementation. Patients with IR, according to eGDR cut-off revealed significantly lower 25(OH)D serum level 15.7 (9.2–28.4) vs. 22.1 (13.0–38.4) ng/ml; p=0.04 as compared to patients without IR. R Spearman analysis found a positive relationship between VD and eGDR (Rs=0.27; p<0.01). Logistic regression analysis revealed significant relationship between the presence of IR and VD serum level/presence of 25(OH)D serum level below 10 ng/ml, both models adjusted to sex, age, BMI, LDL and triglycerides, accordingly (OR=0.95, CI: 0.90–0.99; p=0.04) and (OR=4.19, CI: 1.04–16.93; p=0.04).

Conclusion The serum concentration of Vitamin D is negatively associated with insulin resistance in patients with T1DM and may have clinical implications.
l-Prolinal Dithioacetal: A Highly Effective Organocatalyst for the Direct Nitro-Michael Addition to Selected Cyclic and Aromatic Ketones
Authors: Pomarański Piotr , Czarnocki Zbigniew
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of novel l-prolinal dithioacetal and its application as an organocatalyst for the direct Michael addition of cyclic ketones and acetophenone derivatives to trans-β-nitrostyrene and related compounds is described. The prolinal dithioacetal acts as effective catalyst in the case of cyclic ketones of different ring size, in particular five- and six-membered examples, as well as larger and smaller ring systems. High enantioselectivity and diastereoselectivity is observed for different substrates and trans-β-nitrostyrenes. Also, the first asymmetric syntheses of selected 2-methyl-4-nitro-1,3-diphenylbutan-1-one derivatives by application of the obtained organocatalyst is presented.
Synthesis of 6-Chloro-5-(trifluoroacetyl)pyridine-3-carbonitrile: A Novel, Versatile Intermediate for the Synthesis of Trifluoromethylated Azaindazole Derivatives
Authors: Channapur Manjunath , Hall Roger , Kessabi Jilali , Montgomery Mark , Shyadligeri Ashok
Published: May 2019

A synthesis of 6-chloro-5-(trifluoroacetyl)pyridine-3-carbonitrile, a versatile building block for the synthesis of trifluoromethylated N-heterocycles, is described. The reactions of 6-chloro-5-(trifluoroacetyl)pyridine-3-carbonitrile with 1,2- and 1,3-bisnucleophiles were investigated.
A Review of Pedicled Perforator Flaps for Reconstruction of the Soft Tissue Defects of the Leg and Foot
Authors: Low O-Wern , Sebastin Sandeep J. , Cheah Andre E. J.
Published: May 2019

Lower extremity soft tissue defects frequently result from high-energy trauma or oncological resection. The lack of suitable muscle flap options for the distal leg and foot makes defects in these locations especially challenging to reconstruct and free tissue transfer is commonly used. Another option that has become more popular in the past two decades are pedicled perforator flaps. Based on a thorough literature review and the authors’ experience on leg perforator flaps for over a decade, this article presents a historical review, the anatomical basis of common perforator flaps of the leg and foot, patient selection, wound selection, perforator selection, flap design, surgical techniques, refinements, and postoperative care. A review of the clinical outcomes and complications of these flaps was also performed and was noted to be comparable to the outcomes of free tissue transfer with significantly lower total flap failure rate. It is hoped that this review will assist surgeons in the formulation of a comprehensive step-by-step guide in performing pedicled perforator flap reconstruction of the lower extremity.
Structural, dielectric and low temperature magnetic response of Zn doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Batoo Khalid Mujasam , Raslan Emad H. , Yang Yujie , Adil Syed Farooq , Khan Mujeeb , Imran Ahamad , Al-Douri Yarub
Published: May 2019

The finely controlled nanostructured cubic spinel ferrites pave the way to synthesize nanomaterials with specific properties for particular applications. In this paper, we report sol-gel synthesis of Zn doped spinel Co1-xZnxFe2O4 (where x= 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3) ferrite nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction confirms the single phase cubic structure of nano ferrites with average particle size estimated between 55.38 to 32.87 nm and validated by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results (±1). The lattice parameter was found to increase with increasing Zn doping concentration. The samples exhibit normal dielectric behaviour of Maxwell-Wagner type of interfacial polarization that decreases with increasing frequency of the applied field. Temperature-dependent magnetic properties were investigated with the aid of physical property system. The hysteresis measurements of the samples show clearly enhancement in magnetic parameters as the temperature goes down to 20 K. Tuning of magnetic properties has been witnessed as a function of doping and temperature under the influence of externally applied magnetic field, has been discussed in this paper.
Development and morphological characterization of ion wind in an inhomogeneous DC field
Authors: Wang Ping , Song Jingxuan , Ruan Haoou , Lv Fangcheng , Geng Jianghai , Wang Xinyu
Published: May 2019

Ion wind is a concomitant phenomenon arising from the process of discharge development, and is widely used in heat dissipation and ion neutralisation. The morphology characterization of ion wind was observed using a photo-electric joint monitoring system consisting of a photomultiplier tube(PMT), a Rogowski coil, and Schlieren apparatus. According to the morphological and photo-electric characteristics, the development of ion wind could be divided into three stages, including an intermittent ion wind, a stable ion wind channel, and a fluctuating ion wind channel. During intermittent ionic wind, the ion wind presented intermittent jet behaviours, and the time-delay between photo-current and grounding current was obvious. During the stable ion wind channel period, a columnar channel was formed, and there was no time-delay between photo-current and grounding current. During fluctuation in ionic wind, the current increased and the channel width fluctuated. The width of, and wind speed in, the channel with different gap spacings were analysed. A simplified model was established to simulate the formation of the ion wind under negative voltage. The simulation result showed that the concentration distribution of negative particles is similar to the channel morphology, and the ion wind is the track of neutral molecular migration driven by the movement of negative particles. Comparing the simulation and experimental results, the relationship between the motion state of charged particles, the charge density and the morphology of ion wind was analyzed.
Instability of magnetohydrodynamic flow of Hartmann layers between parallel plates
Authors: Yang Zhang , Hussain Zakir , Hussanan Abid , Hussain Sultan , Zhang Huisheng
Published: May 2019

This study investigates the linear stability of the Hartmann layers of an electrically conductive fluid between parallel plates under the impact of a transverse magnetic field. The corresponding Orr–Sommerfeld equations are numerically solved using Chebyshev’s pseudo-spectral method with Chebyshev polynomial expansion. The QZ algorithm is applied to find neutral linear instability curves. Details of the instability are evaluated by solving the generalized Orr–Sommerfeld system, allowing growth rates to be determined. The results confirm that a magnetic field provides a stabilizing impact to the flow, and the extent of this impact is demonstrated for a range of Reynolds numbers. From numerical simulations, it is observed that a magnetic field with a specific magnitude stabilizes the Hartmann flow. Further, the critical Reynolds number increases rapidly when the Hartmann number is greater than 0.7. Finally, it is shown that a transverse magnetic field overcomes the instability in the flow.
Magnetic immunity of spin-transfer-torque MRAM
Authors: Srivastava S. , Sivabalan K. , Kwon J. H. , Yamane K. , Yang H. , Chung N. L. , Ding J. , Teo Kie Leong , Lee Kangho , Yang Hyunsoo
Published: May 2019

Spin-transfer-torque magnetic random-access memory (STT-MRAM) devices are projected to find their applications in a wide range of systems such as portable devices which may be influenced by external magnetic fields. Therefore, it is important to study the magnetic immunity for the development of STT-MRAM immune to the data loss due to accidental or deliberate exposure to high magnetic fields. In this work, we propose a method to analyze the magnetic immunity of STT-MRAM arrays based on the bit error rate (BER) data in the presence of an external magnetic field. We propose an analytical equation to express the standard deviation of the energy barrier for the STT-MRAM array using a domain wall assisted switching model, which is confirmed using Monte Carlo simulations. We study 40 Mb BER data and predict that the STT-MRAM array can sustain a maximum field of 690 Oe and maintain BER below 0.1 ppm for ten-year exposure to the DC magnetic field at 85 °C.
Enhancement of the open circuit voltage of Cu2O/Ga2O3 heterojunction solar cells through the mitigation of interfacial recombination
Authors: Chua Danny , Kim Sang Bok , Gordon Roy
Published: May 2019

Thin film solar cells were fabricated using cuprous oxide (Cu2O) absorber layers grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and gallium oxide (Ga2O3) buffer layers grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) on the cuprous oxide CVD films. The in-situ formation of heterojunction in the same deposition system without exposure to oxygen-rich ambient was found to be effective in mitigating the creation of detrimental cupric oxide (CuO) at the interface, resulting in a pristine photovoltaic junction capable of delivering an enhanced open-circuit voltage of 1.78 V. Numerical device simulations of a novel two-layer absorber architecture (CVD-Cu2O on ECD-Cu2O) showed promising possibilities (theoretical 13.2 % efficiency) for a solar cell combining in-situ junction formation with electrochemical deposition of the absorber layer.
Substrate complex competition is a regulatory motif that allows NFκB RelA to license but not amplify NFκB RelB
Authors: Mitchell Simon , Hoffmann Alexander
Published: May 2019

Significance

Inflammation-responsive canonical NFκB induces many genes, two of which encode noncanonical NFκB pathway components that control developmental processes. This suggests potentially perilous cross-regulation by which inflammatory conditions could derail immune organ developmental decisions. We use mathematical modeling to propose a mechanism that functions as a brake on this connection. We report that the key enzyme mediating developmental NFκB is subject to competition from two forms of its single substrate. Termed substrate complex competition, this regulatory motif can lead to a counterintuitive decrease of signaling product in conditions of elevated substrate abundance. We propose that although noncanonical NFκB requires intact inflammatory NFκB signaling, substrate complex competition allows developmental signals to be reliably transduced without inappropriate amplification by inflammation.
Targeting RIPK1 for the treatment of human diseases
Authors: Degterev Alexei , Ofengeim Dimitry , Yuan Junying
Published: May 2019

Significance

RIPK1 plays a critical role in mediating deleterious responses downstream of TNFR1. RIPK1 inhibitors have been progressed successfully past human phase I clinical studies. This paper discusses why RIPK1 inhibitors present an opportunity for developing oral drugs for a range of human degenerative and inflammatory diseases, especially CNS pathologies, including ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and lysosomal storage diseases.
A victim of prudishness
Authors: Sydorenko Sergiy
Published: May 2019

Often excluded from Chaucer’s modernizations or heavily censored,The Miller’s Taleover the centuries has been stigmatized as bawdy, obscene and, as such, unfit for the general reader. The article briefly reviews the history of the modernization ofThe Miller’s Talein the 18th–19th centuries and focuses on its four major 20th-early 21st-century translations into modern English to find out how the motives of decency might have determined the translators’ choices where it concerns the tale’s explicit language. The argument of decency appears to be a lame excuse for the failure of many of Chaucer’s modernizers to understand the true purport and place ofThe Miller’s Talein the overall composition ofThe Canterbury Tales, as well as to appreciate Chaucer’s literary achievement in representing through his characters’ narratives the spirit and mindset of his age.
The role of magnetic order in VOCl
Authors: Ekholm M , Schönleber A , van Smaalen S
Published: May 2019

VOCl and other transition metal oxychlorides are candidate materials for next-generation rechargeable batteries. We have investigated the influence of the underlying magnetic order on the crystallographic and electronic structure by means of density functional theory. Our study shows that antiferromagnetic ordering explains the observed low-temperature monoclinic distortion of the lattice, which leads to a decreased distance between antiferromagnetically coupled V–V nearest neighbors. We also show that the existence of a local magnetic moment removes the previously suggested degeneracy of the occupied levels, in agreement with experiments. To describe the electronic structure, it turns out crucial to take the correct magnetic ordering into account, especially at elevated temperature.
Electrostatic pair-potentials based on the Poisson equation
Authors: Stenqvist B
Published: May 2019

Electrostatic pair-potentials within molecular simulations are often based on empirical data, cancellation of derivatives or moments, or statistical distributions of image-particles. In this work we start with the fundamental Poisson equation and show that no truncated Coulomb pair-potential, unsurprisingly, can solve the Poisson equation. For any such pair-potential the Poisson equation gives two incompatible constraints, yet we find a single unique expression which, pending two physically connected smoothness parameters, can obey either one of these. This expression has a general form which covers several recently published pair-potentials. For sufficiently large degree of smoothness we find that the solution implies a Gaussian distribution of the charge, a feature which is frequently assumed in pair-potential theory. We end up by recommending a single pair-potential based both on theoretical arguments and empirical evaluations of non-thermal lattice- and thermal water-systems. The same derivations have also been made for the screened Poisson equation, i.e. for Yukawa potentials, with a similar solution.
Quantum error correction with the semion code
Authors: Dauphinais G , Ortiz L , Varona S , Martin-Delgado M A
Published: May 2019

We present a full quantum error correcting procedure with the semion code: an off-shell extension of the double-semion model. We construct open-string operators that recover the quantum memory from arbitrary errors and closed-string operators that implement the basic logical operations for information processing. Physically, the new open-string operators provide a detailed microscopic description of the creation of semions at their end-points. Remarkably, topological properties of the string operators are determined using fundamental properties of the Hamiltonian, namely, the fact that it is composed of commuting local terms squaring to the identity. In all, the semion code is a topological code that, unlike previously studied topological codes, it is of non-CSS type and fits into the stabilizer formalism. This is in sharp contrast with previous attempts yielding non-commutative codes.
The functional implications of tracheary connections across growth rings in four northern hardwood trees
Authors: Wason Jay W , Brodersen Craig R , Huggett Brett A
Published: May 2019

Background and aims

Deciduous angiosperm trees transport xylem sap through trunks and branches in vessels within annual growth rings. Utilizing previous growth rings for sap transport could increase vessel network size and redundancy but may expose new xylem to residual air embolisms in the network. Despite the important role of vessel networks in sap transport and drought resistance, our understanding of cross-ring connections within and between species is limited.

Methods

We studied cross-ring connections in four temperate deciduous trees using dye staining and X-ray microcomputed tomography (microCT) to detect xylem connectivity across growth rings and quantify their impact on hydraulic conductivity.

Key results

Acer rubrum and Fraxinus americana had cross-ring connections visible in microCT but only A. rubrum used previous growth rings for axial sap flow. Fagus grandifolia and Quercus rubra, however, did not have cross-ring connections. Accounting for the number of growth rings that function for axial transport improved hydraulic conductivity estimates.

Conclusions

These data suggest that the presence of cross-ring connections may help explain aspects of whole-tree xylem sap transport and should be considered for plant hydraulics measurements in these species and others with similar anatomy.
Y-Shaped En-Bloc Mortise-Tenon Rhinoplasty Technique
Authors: Tan Zheng , Sun Wentao , Yang Wenjing , Zhu Xiaoling , Dong Fan , Li Qin , Li Shengli
Published: May 2019

Background

Nasal tip management is the most important and challenging aspect of rhinoplasty. Costal cartilage can be utilized in septal extension grafting to effectively correct nasal shape deformity.

Objectives

The authors described their experience with costal cartilage grafting for septal extension utilizing a novel en-bloc mortise-tenon technique to correct primary or secondary nose deformity or to enhance nasal appearance in Asian patients.

Methods

From July 2015 to December 2017, costal cartilage grafts were applied as septal extension biomaterials utilizing the novel en-bloc mortise-tenon technique in 278 consecutive Asian rhinoplasty patients with primary (n = 95), secondary (n = 173), and tertiary (n = 10) nose deformity or in patients needing nasal reshaping. The age of the patients ranged from 19 to 46 years. In all cases, the mucoperichondria of the nasal septum were dissected bilaterally from the septal cartilage. The prepared en-bloc costal cartilage graft was mounted onto the caudal portion of the septal cartilage and fixed to the septum with 5-0 polydioxanone sutures.

Results

The follow-up duration ranged from 10 months to 2.5 years. Of the 278 patients treated, 5 were male and 273 were female. External lengthening of the nose from the nasal root to the tip ranged from 3 to 10 mm. All patients except 1 were satisfied with the shape of the nose.

Conclusions

The authors obtained good aesthetic results utilizing the novel en-bloc mortise-tenon method for connecting costal cartilage grafts as septal extension materials in patients with different types of nasal deformity and in patients needing nose reshaping.

Level of Evidence: 4
Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria: 2019 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of Americaa
Authors: Nicolle Lindsay E , Gupta Kalpana , Bradley Suzanne F , Colgan Richard , DeMuri Gregory P , Drekonja Dimitri , Eckert Linda O , Geerlings Suzanne E , Köves Béla , Hooton Thomas M , Juthani-Mehta Manisha , Knight Shandra L , Saint Sanjay , Schaeffer Anthony J , Trautner Barbara , Wullt Bjorn , Siemieniuk Reed
Published: May 2019

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is a common finding in many populations, including healthy women and persons with underlying urologic abnormalities. The 2005 guideline from the Infectious Diseases Society of America recommended that ASB should be screened for and treated only in pregnant women or in an individual prior to undergoing invasive urologic procedures. Treatment was not recommended for healthy women; older women or men; or persons with diabetes, indwelling catheters, or spinal cord injury. The guideline did not address children and some adult populations, including patients with neutropenia, solid organ transplants, and nonurologic surgery. In the years since the publication of the guideline, further information relevant to ASB has become available. In addition, antimicrobial treatment of ASB has been recognized as an important contributor to inappropriate antimicrobial use, which promotes emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The current guideline updates the recommendations of the 2005 guideline, includes new recommendations for populations not previously addressed, and, where relevant, addresses the interpretation of nonlocalizing clinical symptoms in populations with a high prevalence of ASB.
First-line Therapy With Donor-derived Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV)–specific T Cells Reduces Persistent HCMV Infection by Promoting Antiviral Immunity After Allogenic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Zhao Xiang-Yu , Pei Xu-Ying , Chang Ying-Jun , Yu Xing-Xing , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Liu Kai-Yan , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: May 2019

Background

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection, especially persistent HCMV infection, is an important cause of morbidity and mortality after allogenic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Antiviral agents remain the first-line therapy but are limited by side effects and acquired resistance.

Methods

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of donor-derived HCMV-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) as a first-line therapy for HCMV infection after allo-SCT and investigated the underlying mechanisms.

Results

In humanized HCMV-infected mice, first-line therapy with CTLs effectively combated systemic HCMV infection by promoting the restoration of graft-derived endogenous HCMV-specific immunity in vivo. In a clinical trial, compared with the pair-matched, high-risk control cohort, first-line therapy with CTLs significantly reduced the rate of persistent (2.9% vs 20.0%, P = .018) and late (5.7% vs 20.0%, P = .01) HCMV infection and cumulative incidence of persistent HCMV infection (hazard ratio [HR], 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10–0.82; P = .02), lowered 1-year treatment-related mortality (HR, 0.15. 95% CI, 0.11–0.90. P = .03), and improved 1-year overall survival (HR, 6.35; 95% CI, 1.05–9.00; P = .04). Moreover, first-line therapy with CTLs promoted the quantitative and functional recovery of CTLs in patients, which was associated with HCMV clearance.

Conclusions

We provide robust support for the benefits of CTLs combined with antiviral drugs as a first-line therapy for treating HCMV infection and suggest that adoptively infused CTLs may stimulate the recovery of endogenous HCMV-specific immunity.

Clinical trials registration

NCT02985775.
Incidence and Progression of Echocardiographic Abnormalities in Older Children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Adolescents Taking Antiretroviral Therapy: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Majonga Edith D , Rehman Andrea M , Mchugh Grace , Mujuru Hilda A , Nathoo Kusum , Odland Jon O , Ferrand Rashida A , Kaski Juan Pablo
Published: May 2019

Background

A high prevalence of cardiac abnormalities has been reported in children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa. We investigated the incidence and progression of cardiac abnormalities among children taking ART in Zimbabwe.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted at a pediatric HIV clinic from 2014 to 2017. Children with HIV aged between 6 and 16 years and taking ART ≥6 months were enrolled. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed at baseline and after 18 months.

Results

Of 197 participants recruited at baseline, 175 (89%; 48% female; median age 12 years, interquartile range 10–14 years) were followed up. The incidences of left and right heart abnormalities were 3.52 and 5.64 per 100 person-years, respectively. Stunting was associated with the development of any cardiac abnormality (adjusted odds ratio 2.59, 95% confidence interval 1.03–6.49; P = .043). Right ventricular (RV) dilatation persisted at follow-up in 92% of participants and left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in 88%. Cardiac abnormalities present at baseline reverted to normal over the follow-up period in 11 (6%). There was an overall increase in mean z scores for LV, left atrium (LA), RV, interventricular septum, and LV posterior wall diameters at 18 months (P < .001).

Conclusions

Despite ART, children with HIV have a high incidence of cardiac abnormalities, with only a minority being transient. Mean z scores for LV, LA, RV, interventricular septum, and LV posterior wall diameters increased over a relatively short follow-up period, suggesting the potential for progression of cardiac abnormalities. Longer follow-up is required to understand the clinical implications of these abnormalities.
Vitamin D Inhibits Pro-Inflammatory T Cell Function in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Schardey Josefine , Globig Anna-Maria , Janssen Christine , Hofmann Maike , Manegold Philipp , Thimme Robert , Hasselblatt Peter
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

Dysregulated T cell responses contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Because vitamin D [vitD] deficiency is a risk factor for adverse disease outcomes, we aimed to characterize the impact of vitD on intestinal and peripheral T cell profiles.

Methods

T cells were isolated from peripheral blood and intestinal biopsies of IBD patients, incubated with vitD and characterized by flow cytometry. To translate these in vitro findings to the clinic, serum vitD concentrations and clinical outcomes were correlated with T cell phenotype and function in a prospective patient cohort.

Results

Incubation of peripheral and intestinal T cells with 1,25(OH)2-vitD resulted in strongly reduced frequencies of pro-inflammatory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells producing interferon γ [IFNγ], interleukin-17 [IL-17], IL-22, IL-9 and tumour necrosis factor [TNF]. Univariable analysis of 200 IBD patients revealed associations of vitD deficiency with non-compliant vitD intake, season of the year and anaemia in Crohn’s disease [CD] as well as disease activity in ulcerative colitis [UC]. Ex vivo immunophenotyping revealed that CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets were not substantially altered in vitD-deficient vs vitD-sufficient patients while regulatory T cell frequencies were reduced in UC and non-smoking CD patients with vitD deficiency. However, normalization of serum vitD concentrations in previously deficient CD patients resulted in significantly reduced frequencies of CD4+ T cells producing IFNγ, IL-17 and IL-22.

Conclusion

vitD exerts profound anti-inflammatory effects on peripheral and intestinal CD4+ and CD8+ T cells of IBD patients in vitro and inhibits TH1 and TH17 cytokine production in CD patients in vivo.
Changes in socioeconomic mortality inequalities at adult and old ages in Lithuania, 2001–05 to 2011–15
Authors: Jasilionis Domantas , Stankūnienė Vladislava , Baublytė Marė
Published: May 2019

This article provides evidence about changes in mortality inequalities by education and economic activity status among adults aged 30–64 and older adults aged 65 and over in Lithuania between 2001–05 and 2011–15. The study shows that the overall mortality decline in Lithuania was not homogeneous across socio-economic groups. The inequitable progress resulted in a widening in absolute and relative mortality inequalities among older adults and notable increases in relative mortality inequalities among adults aged 30–64. The total public health burden of mortality inequalities remained very pronounced or even increased further.
The origin of aerobic methanotrophy within the Proteobacteria
Authors: Kang Christina S , Dunfield Peter F , Semrau Jeremy D
Published: May 2019

Aerobic methanotrophs play critical roles in the global carbon cycle, but despite their environmental ubiquity, they are phylogenetically restricted. Via bioinformatic analyses, it is shown that methanotrophy likely arose from methylotrophy from the lateral gene transfer of either of the two known forms of methane monooxygenase (particulate and soluble methane monooxygenases). Moreover, it appears that both known forms of pyrroloquinoline quinone-dependent methanol dehydrogenase (MeDH) found in methanotrophs—the calcium-containing Mxa-MeDH and the rare earth element-containing Xox-MeDH—were likely encoded in the genomes before the acquisition of the methane monooxygenases (MMOs), but that some methanotrophs subsequently received an additional copy of Xox-MeDH-encoding genes via lateral gene transfer. Further, data are presented that indicate the evolution of methanotrophy from methylotrophy not only required lateral transfer of genes encoding for methane monooxygenases, but also likely the pre-existence of a means of collecting copper. Given the emerging interest in valorizing methane via biological platforms, it is recommended that future strategies for heterologous expression of methane monooxygenase for conversion of methane to methanol also include cloning of genes encoding mechanism(s) of copper uptake, especially for expression of particulate methane monooxygenase.
Promoting Volunteering Among Older Adults in Hong Kong: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jiang Da , Warner Lisa M , Chong Alice Ming-Lin , Li Tianyuan , Wolff Julia K , Chou Kee-Lee
Published: May 2019

Background and Objectives

Volunteering has consistently been associated with better mental, physical, and cognitive health in older adulthood. However, the volunteering rate of older adults in Hong Kong is much lower than in Western countries. Few studies have examined whether interventions can be effective in motivating older adults to volunteer in Hong Kong. To fill this gap, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine the impact of a theory-based social-cognitive intervention on volunteering.

Research Design and Methods

A total of 264 community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong (Mage = 69.95 years, SDage = 6.90 years, 81.06% female) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group or an active control group. Participants in the experimental group received 4 weekly 1-hr face-to-face volunteering intervention sessions. Those in the active control group received parallel sessions targeting physical activity instead of volunteering. The time spent on volunteering per month was self-reported and measured at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after the intervention. Self-efficacy, intention, action planning, and self-monitoring of volunteering were measured as mediators.

Results

Monthly volunteering minutes increased among participants in the experimental group when compared with the active control group at 6-week, 3-month, and 6-month follow-ups. Self-efficacy, intention, and action planning consistently mediated the effect of the intervention on volunteering minutes.

Discussion and Implications

The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the intervention on volunteering behavior in older adults in Hong Kong through well-established behavior change techniques.
The Chow Ring of the Stack of Hyperelliptic Curves of Odd Genus
Authors: Di Lorenzo Andrea
Published: May 2019

We find a new presentation of the stack of hyperelliptic curves of odd genus as a quotient stack and we use it to compute its integral Chow ring by means of equivariant intersection theory.
Schur Algebras and Quantum Symmetric Pairs With Unequal Parameters
Authors: Lai Chun-Ju , Luo Li
Published: May 2019

We study the (quantum) Schur algebras of type B/C corresponding to the Hecke algebras with unequal parameters. We prove that the Schur algebras afford a stabilization construction in the sense of Beilinson–Lusztig–MacPherson that constructs a multiparameter upgrade of the quantum symmetric pair coideal subalgebras of type AIII/AIV with no black nodes. We further obtain the canonical basis of the Schur/coideal subalgebras, at the specialization associated with any weight function. These bases are the counterparts of Lusztig’s bar-invariant basis for Hecke algebras with unequal parameters. In the appendix we provide an algebraic version of a type D Beilinson–Lusztig–MacPherson construction, which is first introduced by Fan–Li from a geometric viewpoint.