bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
π-Type halogen bonding enhanced the long-lasting room temperature phosphorescence of Zn(ii) coordination polymers for photoelectron response applications
Authors: Yang Xiao-Gang , Lu Xiao-Min , Zhai Zhi-Min , Qin Jian-Hua , Chang Xin-Hong , Han Min-Le , Li Fei-Fei , Ma Lu-Fang
Published: April 2020

Long-lasting phosphorescence emission was achieved via π-type halogen bonding in Zn(ii) based coordination polymers. The delocalized H-aggregates afforded large electron channels for efficient charge transport and high photoelectron response.
Porous niobia spheres with large surface area: alcothermal synthesis and controlling of their composition and phase transition behaviour
Authors: Kumabe Yoshitaka , Taga Hitomi , Kan Kai , Ohtani Masataka , Kobiro Kazuya
Published: April 2020

Nb2O5, TiO2–Nb2O5, and TiNb2O7 porous spheres with large surface area were synthesized by alcothermal reaction and calcination.
Desilylation of copolymer membranes composed of poly[1-(p-trimethylsilyl)phenyl-2-(p-trimethylsilyl)phenylacetylene] for improved gas permeability
Authors: Lin Yi , Sakaguchi Toshikazu , Hashimoto Tamotsu
Published: April 2020

Enhancement of oxygen permeability by desilylation of diphenylacetylene copolymer membranes.
Shear-induced deformation and interfacial jamming of solid-stabilized droplets
Authors: Kaganyuk M. , Mohraz A.
Published: April 2020

We use rheo-microscopy to directly investigate the dynamics of solid-stabilized droplets subjected to shear flow of a surrounding bulk fluid.
Thermodynamic stability, phase separation and Ag grading in (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 solar absorbers
Authors: Sopiha Kostiantyn V. , Larsen Jes K. , Donzel-Gargand Olivier , Khavari Faraz , Keller Jan , Edoff Marika , Platzer-Björkman Charlotte , Persson Clas , Scragg Jonathan J. S.
Published: April 2020

Herein, we prove that (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 alloy system has a wide miscibility gap, which can induce compositional grading and cause phase separation in thin-film solar absorbers.
Robust FeOOH/BiVO4/Cu(In, Ga)Se2 tandem structure for solar-powered biocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Kim Jinhyun , Lee Yang Woo , Choi Eun-Gyu , Boonmongkolras Passarut , Jeon Byoung Wook , Lee Hojin , Kim Seung Tae , Kuk Su Keun , Kim Yong Hwan , Shin Byungha , Park Chan Beum
Published: April 2020

A robust, scalable FeOOH/BiVO4/Cu(In,Ga)Se2 tandem structure achieves unbiased, long-term photobiocatalytic conversion of CO2 to formate.
In vivo immunological response of exposure to PEGylated graphene oxide via intraperitoneal injection
Authors: Ding Zhaowen , Luo Nana , Yue Hua , Gao Yongjun , Ma Guanghui , Wei Wei
Published: April 2020

2D PEGylated graphene oxide showed stealth-but-immune-activating capacity on macrophages, along with specific intraperitoneal immunological response in vivo.
Perovskite CsPbBr3 crystals: growth and applications
Authors: Yu Jiaoxian , Liu Guangxia , Chen Chengmin , Li Yan , Xu Meirong , Wang Tailin , Zhao Gang , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2020

This review for the first time systematically summarizes the latest research advances of perovskite CsPbBr3 crystal growth and its applications.
A light triggered optical and chiroptical switch based on a homochiral Eu2L3 helicate
Authors: Zhang Jianpeng , Zhou Yanyan , Yao Yuan , Cheng Zhenyu , Gao Ting , Li Hongfeng , Yan Pengfei
Published: April 2020

A pair of homochiral triple-stranded helicates [Eu2(o-LRR)3](TOf)6 and [Eu2(o-LSS)3](TOf)6 show light-responsive optical (UV and PL) and chiroptical (ECD and CPL) switching properties upon alternating UV and visible light irradiation.
Self-driven all-inorganic perovskite microplatelet vertical Schottky junction photodetectors with a tunable spectral response
Authors: Gui Pengbin , Li Jiashuai , Zheng Xiaolu , Wang Haibing , Yao Fang , Hu Xuzhi , Liu Yongjie , Fang Guojia
Published: April 2020

An all-inorganic perovskite self-driven vertical Schottky junction photodetector with a tunable spectral response is reported.
High-resolution laser spectroscopy of the linear SiC2Si molecule and its astrophysical implications
Authors: Zhu Boxing , Gu Jingwang , Yu Chunting , Xiao Zengjun , Chen Yang , Zhao Dongfeng
Published: April 2020

Small silicon-carbon clusters are important gas-phase constituents of stellar atmospheres, and are thought to play a role as potential seeds of the interstellar dusts formed in the envelopes of evolved carbon stars. Here we present the high-resolution optical spectra of the linear SiC2Si molecule (l-Si2C2) studied via laboratory experiments. The l-Si2C2 molecules are generated in a supersonically expanding planar plasma by discharging a silane-acetylene-argon gas mixture. The optical absorption spectra in the 5000−5300 Å region are recorded using sensitive pulsed cavity ring-down spectroscopy. In total, five optical absorption bands belonging to the $ \tilde{C} ^{3}\Sigma_{u} ^{-} $ – $ \tilde{X} ^{3}\Sigma_{g} ^{-} $ electronic transition system of l-Si2C2 are measured with fully resolved spin splitting fine structures in individual rotational transitions. Accurate spectroscopic constants for both $ \tilde{X} ^{3}\Sigma_{g} ^{-} $ and $ \tilde{C} ^{3}\Sigma_{u} ^{-} $ states of l-Si2C2, including the spin-spin interaction constants and spin-rotation interaction constants, are determined from the experimental spectra, which can be used to simulate these optical bands with different temperatures. Using the determined spectroscopic constants, optical spectra of l-Si2C2 simulated with different rotational excitation temperatures are compared to the stellar spectra of evolved carbon stars V Hya and IRAS 12311−23509, where the triatomic SiC2 are known to be abundant. Tentative assignments of the l-Si2C2 spectral features in the stellar spectra are discussed.
Decomposition behavior and kinetics of limestone in early converter slag
Authors: Biao Tang , Bing Li , Zhen Ma
Published: April 2020

The decomposition of limestone in converter slag directly determines the speed of slag melting for lime that has a strong effect on the steelmaking process of the converter. In this paper, a high temperature furnace was used to study the decomposition behavior of cylindrical limestone samples in the converter early slag at the temperatures of 1250 °C, 1300 °C, and 1350 °C under laboratory conditions, and macro-dynamics equation was used to determine the rate-determining step for limestone decomposition in the converter early slag. The results show that when the limestone is decomposed in the early converter slag, the heat transfer from the slag through the lime layer to the unreacted core is the rate-determining step. The limestone decomposition rate in converter slag is slightly lower than that in hot metal. Finally, the suitable grain size of the limestone added into the converter was determined. Thus, this study provides theoretical guidelines for practical use of converter steelmaking in industrial production.
Preparing and Presenting Journal Club Content: An Essential Component of Homeopathic Learning
Authors: Dutta Abhijit , Ghosh Shubhamoy
Published: April 2020

Homeopathic education has passed through significant incremental changes in the past few years, where especially postgraduate education has become increasingly slanted toward advanced knowledge of clinical work and research methods. Among many educational activities, a great source of learning is from presenting at or attending a journal club meeting, which is a gathering of people to learn and to critically appraise a journal article or other study material. There has been little previous guidance in homeopathy regarding how to prepare and present journal club content. Selection of a suitable topic is one of the critical prerequisites. Each and every step, from preparation to presentation, needs to be carefully planned and considered. For the meeting to be successful, the final discussion phase requires the active participation and critical insight of all those attending.
Fracture Toughness Comparison of Three Indirect Composite Resins Using 4-Point Flexural Strength Method
Authors: Moradi Zohreh , Abbasi Mahdi , Khalesi Rayhaneh , Tabatabaei Masoumeh Hasani , Shahidi Zahra
Published: April 2020

Objectives The advantages of indirect composite restorations such as less crack formation during their computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing process, compared with ceramic restorations, have resulted in their growing popularity. However, restoration failure is a major concern with regard to the long-term clinical success of restorations and may occur as the result of propagation of a crack originated from an internal flaw in the restoration. This study aimed to compare the fracture toughness of three indirect composite resins.

Materials and Methods In this in vitro experimental study, 10 specimens measuring 3 × 3 × 18 mm were fabricated of Gradia, Crios, and high impact polymer composite indirect composites. A single edge notch with a diameter < 0.3 mm and 0.3 mm length was created in the 9 mm longitudinal dimension of specimens using a no. 11 surgical scalpel. The specimens were then subjected to 4-point flexural strength test in a universal testing machine with a crosshead speed of 0.1 mm/s until failure.

Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics via one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s HSD (honestly significant difference) test. The statistical power was set at p ˂ 0.05.

Results One-way ANOVA showed a significant difference in fracture toughness of the three composite groups (p = 0.000). According to the Tukey HSD analysis, the fracture toughness of HIPC was significantly higher than that of the other two composites. The fracture toughness of Gradia was significantly lower among all.

Conclusions Within the limitations of this study, the results showed that high temperature-pressure polymerization can increase resistance to crack propagation and subsequently improve the clinical service of indirect composite restorations. Although we do not know the filler volume percentage of HIPC, it seems that filler volume percentage of the composite is inversely correlated with fracture toughness.
In Vivo Effects of a Hydroxyapatite-Based Oral Care Gel on the Calcium and Phosphorus Levels of Dental Plaque
Authors: Sudradjat Henny , Meyer Frederic , Loza Kateryna , Epple Matthias , Enax Joachim
Published: April 2020

Objectives Particulate hydroxyapatite (HAP; Ca5(PO4)3(OH)) is a biomimetic oral care ingredient. One mode of action in caries-susceptible individuals may be the adhesion/incorporation of HAP into dental plaque. Therefore, the aim of this in vivo study was to analyze the 3-day effects of a newly developed hydroxyapatite-based oral care gel on the calcium and phosphorus levels within the dental plaque of children.

Materials and Methods This study was conducted in Kebon Padangan at Bali in Indonesia. Thirty-four children (mean age, 8.9 years; mean DMF-T [decayed, missing, and filled teeth; permanent teeth], 0.6; mean dmft-t [primary teeth] 4.5) were included in the study. The gel was applied thrice for 3 days by an experienced dentist. Dental plaque was collected at baseline and after the study. Levels of calcium and phosphorus of plaque samples were analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Statistical Analysis Medians for both calcium and phosphorus levels were calculated (baseline and 3-day application of HAP-gel).

Results The calcium level increased after 3 days of application of the HAP-gel from 0.25 wt% (median) to 0.40 wt% (median), while the phosphorus level increased from 1.17 wt% (median) to 1.41 wt% (median). However, variations in both calcium and phosphorus levels measured in the pooled dental plaque samples were high.

Conclusion Within the limitations of the study, the 3-day application of the oral HAP-gel in children increased the median of both calcium and phosphorus levels in plaque. Consequently, a positive influence on the remineralization/demineralization process is very likely.
Qualitative Assessment of Four Types of Three-Dimensional Printed Anatomical Tibial Bone Models Compared to Commercially Available Models
Authors: Malek Sarah , Foster Cassandra D. , Huston Davin H.
Published: April 2020

Objective The aim of this study was to compare technical and physical features of four three-dimensional printed bone models used for teaching purposes to commercial models.

Study Design A canine tibia was imaged using computed tomography and used for model development. Tibial models were printed using Resin, polylactide acid (PLA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). They were compared with two commercial models (SAWBONES 2117 and 2108). Models were drilled in three locations and then cut transversely. Subjective quality of models, time and cost of production were compared.

Results Print time was approximately 3 hours for Resin and 4 hours for each of the PLA, ABS and HIPS models. Unlike the Resin and SAWBONES, the PLA, HIPS and ABS had higher heat generation during both drilling and cutting with mild construct deformation at cut surfaces in ABS and PLA models. Characteristics of real bone during drilling and cutting were best simulated in decreasing order by Resin, PLA, ABS and HIPS followed by SAWBONES 2117 and 2108 models. Material costs were $14.6 (Resin), $0.48 (PLA/ABS), $1.52 (HIPS), $23.50 and $17.50 for SAWBONES 2117 and 2108 per model, respectively. Resin performed best and had the closest subjective tactile properties to real bone.

Conclusion The three-dimensional printed tibial bone models provide a cost-effective alternative to commercially available bone models in veterinary medicine as teaching models.
Biomechanical Effects of Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy on Joint Instability in Normal Canine Stifles: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Shimada Masakazu , Takagi Tetsuya , Kanno Nobuo , Yamakawa Satoshi , Fujie Hiromichi , Ichinohe Tom , Suzuki Shuji , Harada Yasuji , Hara Yasushi
Published: April 2020

Objective The aim of the study was to determine the changes in biomechanical characteristics following tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) using simulated manual tests.

Study Design Twenty-one stifles from healthy Beagle dogs that had undergone TPLO or had not (control) were first tested in the intact form, and then the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) was transected in each to provide four test situations: control-intact, control-CrCL-transected, TPLO-intact and TPLO-CrCL-transected. The stifles were then analysed using a robotic joint biomechanical testing system. The craniocaudal drawer, axial rotation and proximal compression tests were applied.

Results The craniocaudal displacement during the drawer test was not significantly different between the control-intact and TPLO-intact. However, the displacement was significantly greater in the TPLO-CrCL-transected than in the control-intact. In the axial rotation test, the internal–external (IE) rotation was significantly greater in the TPLO-intact than in the control-intact. Similarly, the IE rotation was significantly greater in the TPLO-CrCL-transected than in the control-CrCL-transected. In the proximal compression test, craniocaudal displacement was not significantly different among the control-intact, TPLO-intact and TPLO-CrCL-transected.

Conclusion These findings suggest that TPLO influences the tension of the collateral ligaments and might generate laxity of the tibiofemoral joint. Instability after the osteotomy might be associated with the progression of osteoarthritis.
Cardiac Imaging—Physiologic Assessment of Coronary Artery Lesion
Authors: Jyotsna Maddury
Published: April 2020

Thirty percent of angiographically significant coronary lesions may be functionally significant. Physiological assessment is essential to treat intermediate coronary lesions before taking the decision for percutaneous intervention. Even when coronary artery bypass is planned as treatment modality in triple-vessel coronary artery disease, the SYNTEX II trial has shown that functionally significant lesion treatment by bypass grafts improves the outcome of these patients. In this article, possible ways of estimating the physiologic assessment of coronary lesion, and the advantages and disadvantages of methods of estimating the physiologic assessment of coronary lesions is discussed.
Experimental studies of the shunting discharge developing during a foil explosion in vacuum
Authors: Baksht R. B. , Zhigalin A. S. , Rousskikh A. G. , Oreshkin V. I.
Published: April 2020

An experimental study of Al and Ti foil explosions was performed at a current density rise rate of ∼6 × 105 A/(cm2·ns) using a framing camera (3-ns exposure time) and a streak spectral camera. Framing photography has shown that during an Al or a Ti foil explosion, a low-density plasma corona is formed 10–20 ns before a time at which the voltage across the discharge gap reaches the collapse voltage, t = tcoll. Spectral measurements have shown that atomic hydrogen and carbon lines occurred at t = tcoll for both Al and Ti foil explosions. The spectral radiation of the foil material was detected only for Al foil explosions 50–100 ns after t = tcoll. The experimental data and the estimates made in the study indicate that the formation of a plasma corona during a foil explosion occurs in the gas desorbed from the foil surface.
Formation of thermal donor enhanced by oxygen precipitation in silicon crystal
Authors: Torigoe Kazuhisa , Ono Toshiaki
Published: April 2020

The formation of thermal donors in silicon is investigated using Czochralski silicon crystals grown with different grown-in defect regions, such as voids and nuclei of oxidation-induced stacking faults. It was found that the formation rate of thermal donors during annealing at 450 °C increases with an increase in the density of oxide precipitates in the regions containing different grown-in defects. The thermodynamic model for the formation of thermal donors shows that the electrically inactive oxygen trimers as nuclei of thermal donors in an as-grown crystal increase with an increase in the density of oxide precipitates, suggesting that the formation of the nuclei is enhanced due to silicon self-interstitials emitted by oxygen precipitations during the crystal growth.
Backflashes from fast-gated avalanche photodiodes in quantum key distribution
Authors: Koehler-Sidki A. , Dynes J. F. , Paraïso T. K. , Lucamarini M. , Sharpe A. W. , Yuan Z. L. , Shields A. J.
Published: April 2020

InGaAs single-photon avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are key enablers for high-bit rate quantum key distribution. However, the deviation of such detectors from ideal models can open side-channels for an eavesdropper, Eve, to exploit. The phenomenon of backflashes, whereby APDs reemit photons after detecting a photon, gives Eve the opportunity to passively learn the information carried by the detected photon without the need to actively interact with the legitimate receiver, Bob. While this has been observed in slow-gated detectors, it has not been investigated in fast-gated APDs where it has been posited that this effect would be lessened. Here, we perform the first experiment to characterize the security threat that backflashes provide in a GHz-gated self-differencing APD using the metric of information leakage. We find that, indeed, the information leakage is lower than that reported for slower-gated detectors, and we show that its effect on the secure key rate is negligible. We also relate the rate of backflash events to the APD dark current, thereby suggesting that their origin is the InP multiplication region in the APD.
An abrasive-free chemical polishing method assisted by nickel catalyst generated by in situ electrochemical plating
Authors: Toh Daisetsu , Van Bui Pho , Isohashi Ai , Matsuyama Satoshi , Yamauchi Kazuto , Sano Yasuhisa
Published: April 2020

An abrasive-free polishing method using water and a Pt catalyst, called catalyst-referred etching (CARE), has been developed for the finishing of optical and semiconductor surfaces. This method realizes well-ordered surfaces with a smoothness of several tens of picometers without crystallographic disturbance. In this study, we propose a new CARE method using a Ni catalyst with in situ electrochemical plating and dissolution, which enable enhancing the catalytic capability of Ni. This method has advantages to realize more than ten times higher removal rate and better stability compared with the conventional CARE method.
Reliable inkjet contact metallization on printed polymer semiconductors for fabricating staggered TFTs
Authors: Lee Yongwoo , Kwon Jimin , Jung Sungyeop , Kim Woojo , Baek Sanghoon , Jung Sungjune
Published: April 2020

Even though the fundamental benefits of the staggered bottom-gate top-contact geometry in organic thin-film transistors (TFTs) have been fully demonstrated for enhancing the charge injection efficiency, most printed organic TFTs with inkjet-printed source/drain electrodes have only been fabricated in bottom-contact configurations, probably due to the difficulty of printing with metal-nanoparticle ink on soluble organic semiconductor (OSC) without film deformation/dissolution. Here, we present the printing process and the electrical characteristics of inkjet-printed top contact OSC in bottom-gate TFTs. We first fabricated polymer bottom-gate TFTs by printing in two different top- and bottom-contact configurations. The physical carrier mobility of the two TFTs was extracted from a gated-contact organic TFT model to exclude the effect of geometric contact resistance RC. When compared to assess the OSC film damage from the printing metallization, the two mobility values were almost identical. This result indicates that the metal nanoparticle ink used in this work formed a top metal contact on the OSC film without significant chemical damage. Furthermore, the printed top-contact TFT exhibited I–V characteristics almost identical to those of a thermally evaporated Ag top-contact TFT. This study suggests the possibility of inkjet-printed top metal contacts for organic thin-film devices such as transistors, solar cells, and diodes.
Macroscopic modeling of plasma effects on heat and fluid flow in a dielectric barrier discharge based process for biosolid stabilization
Authors: Pasolari R. S. , Papadopoulos P. K. , Svarnas P. , Giannakopoulos E. , Kalavrouziotis I. , Georga S. , Krontiras C.
Published: April 2020

This work presents a simple, easily applicable macroscopic model for the simulation of the plasma effect on the fluid flow and the heat transfer, in a Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) reactor used for environmental applications, such as soil remediation and biosolid stabilization. The model uses inputs that are easy to obtain experimentally, such as the inlet flow rate, electric power consumption, and reduction in the moisture of the treated specimen, in order to provide information on features that are difficult to measure, such as the temperature distribution in the plasma region and inside the specimen. The model is presented here through the simulation of a floating-electrode DBD process, and the results are compared with experimental data. For the simulation, the reactor’s exact geometry is reconstructed in the computational domain, conjugate heat transfer is considered between the flowing air and the solid components, and the treated biosolid is modeled as a porous material. The findings show that, within the selected operating window, the temperature increase in the plasma area and inside the biosolid does not exceed 100 K. Such information is crucial for the assessment of the physicochemical modification of the specimen under treatment and the suitability of the treatment procedure for targeted applications.
Stacked organic solar cell increased to 15.9% efficiency
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: April 2020

Tandem organic photovoltaic cell with reduced electrical and optical losses, has reached 15.9% power conversion efficiency.
On permeability of corrugated pore membranes
Authors: Tran-Duc Thien , Phan-Thien Nhan , Thamwattana Natalie
Published: April 2020

Ceramic membranes have great potential for water treatment and filtering applications. However, one of the drawbacks of ceramic membrane filtration is its low permeability due to small functioning nanometer pore size. Increasing the membrane permeability without impairing its filtration function is, therefore, a crucial and practical problem. From hydrodynamical perspectives, keeping the inlet radius of membrane pores unchanged but only re-defining the pore geometry also could help to improve the permeate flow rate. In this paper, the membrane permeability with corrugated pores is investigated via hydrodynamical simulations using smoothed particle hydrodynamics. For a given corrugation length, it is found that there exists a range of values of the corrugation amplitude in which the membrane permeability is enhanced and a peak value is also achieved. On expanding the corrugation length, the range of the corrugation amplitude for permeability enhancement is larger and its permeability is further improved. The ratio of the corrugation amplitude to the corrugation length is found to be the key factor for permeability enhancement.
Left- and Right-Dislocation and the speaker’s perspective
Authors: Cardinaletti Anna
Published: April 2020

In Italian, topics appear in left- or right-dislocated position and are doubled by clause-internal clitic pronouns. In this paper, the syntax and the contribution to discourse of left- and right-dislocated topics are discussed. We focus on Familiar Topics, the only topic which can appear in either position. It is shown that Familiar Topics do not only involve the retrieval of given information, as is currently assumed, but also contribute to the conversational dynamics by adding the speaker’s perspective on shared information. It is also shown that left and right-dislocated topics have different properties, confirming that Left Dislocation is not the mirror image of Right Dislocation. The discussion includes the comparison between Italian Left and Right Dislocation and German modal particles.
Diagnosing verb raising
Authors: Tescari Neto Aquiles
Published: April 2020

Adverbs have been largely taken as diagnostics for movements. The enrichment of structures by the “Cartographic Program” brings about an important question to the theory of verb raising: which AdvPs should be considered reliable diagnostics? The paper brings data from Brazilian Portuguese and Peruvian Spanish to argue that low adverbs are bona fide diagnostics for verb raising. The position of the finite and the infinitive relative to the nine lowest adverbs of Cinque’s hierarchy in four possible orders is tested in these two languages. Data from BP, testing the position of high adverbs relative to the lexical verb, is presented in the sequence. Those data allow one to argue that high adverbs cannot be used as diagnostic tools for movements. Further data on VP-ellipsis confirms the contention that only low adverbs are bona fide diagnostics for V raising.
The N-terminal domain in TRPM2 channel is a conserved nucleotide binding site
Authors: Lü Wei , Du Juan
Published: April 2020

This study by Tóth et al. has defined that the N-terminal MHR1/2 domain is a conserved ADPR binding site in TRPM2 from ancient cnidarians to vertebrate, and that it is the key ligand binding site for invertebrate TRPM2 channel activation by ADPR, the same as observed in human and zebrafish TRPM2.
A Matter of the Heart: Daytime Relationship Functioning and Overnight Heart Rate in Young Dating Couples
Authors: Schacter Hannah L , Pettit Corey , Kim Yehsong , Sichko Stassja , Timmons Adela C , Chaspari Theodora , Han Sohyun C , Margolin Gayla
Published: April 2020

Background

Although past longitudinal research demonstrates that romantic partners affect one another’s health outcomes, considerably less is known about how romantic experiences “get under the skin” in everyday life.

Purpose

The current study investigated whether young couples’ naturally occurring feelings of closeness to and annoyance with each other during waking hours were associated with their overnight cardiovascular activity.

Methods

Participants were 63 heterosexual young adult dating couples (Mage = 23.07). Using ecological momentary assessments, couples reported their hourly feelings of closeness to and annoyance with their partners across 1 day; subsequent overnight heart rate was captured through wearable electrocardiogram biosensors. Actor–partner interdependence models tested whether individuals’ overnight heart rate varied as a function of (a) their own daytime feelings of closeness and annoyance (actor effects) and (b) their partner’s daytime feelings of closeness and annoyance (partner effects) while controlling for daytime heart rate.

Results

Although young adults’ feelings of romantic closeness and annoyance were unrelated to their own overnight heart rate (i.e., no actor effects), gender-specific partner effects emerged. Young men’s nocturnal heart rate was uniquely predicted by their female partner’s daytime relationship feelings. When women felt closer to their partners during the day, men exhibited lower overnight heart rate. When women felt more annoyed with their partners during the day, men exhibited heightened overnight heart rate.

Conclusions

The findings illustrate gender-specific links between couple functioning and physiological arousal in the everyday lives of young dating couples, implicating physiological sensitivity to partner experiences as one potential pathway through which relationships affect health.
Assessment of Specimen Pooling to Conserve SARS CoV-2 Testing Resources
Authors: Abdalhamid Baha , Bilder Christopher R , McCutchen Emily L , Hinrichs Steven H , Koepsell Scott A , Iwen Peter C
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To establish the optimal parameters for group testing of pooled specimens for the detection of SARS-CoV-2.

Methods

The most efficient pool size was determined to be five specimens using a web-based application. From this analysis, 25 experimental pools were created using 50 µL from one SARS-CoV-2 positive nasopharyngeal specimen mixed with 4 negative patient specimens (50 µL each) for a total volume of 250 µL. Viral RNA was subsequently extracted from each pool and tested using the CDC SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR assay. Positive pools were consequently split into individual specimens and tested by extraction and PCR. This method was also tested on an unselected group of 60 nasopharyngeal specimens grouped into 12 pools.

Results

All 25 pools were positive with cycle threshold (Ct) values within 0 and 5.03 Ct of the original individual specimens. The analysis of 60 specimens determined that 2 pools were positive followed by identification of 2 individual specimens among the 60 tested. This testing was accomplished while using 22 extractions/PCR tests, a savings of 38 reactions.

Conclusions

When the incidence rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection is 10% or less, group testing will result in the saving of reagents and personnel time with an overall increase in testing capability of at least 69%.
Characterization of clinical knowledge and problem-solving assessments employed in postgraduate year 1 pharmacy residency interviews
Authors: Eudaley Sarah T , Mihm Alexandra E , Hammond Drayton A , Szwak Jennifer , Swanson Joseph M
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Attainment of postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residency positions has become increasingly competitive. Inclusion of clinical knowledge and problem-solving assessments in onsite interviews has increased in recent years. Characterization of these assessments is necessary for applicants to best prepare for interviews and for mentors to provide guidance.

Methods

An online survey was emailed to program directors of PGY1 pharmacy residency programs accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare categorical data. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze nonparametric continuous data.

Results

Of the 221 respondents, most identified their programs as based at community (48%) or academic (39%) medical centers. Ninety percent of programs reported inclusion of clinical knowledge and problem-solving assessments in the onsite interview process. The most common assessments included asking clinical questions (70%), development of a SOAP (subjective, objective, assessment, plan) note or care plan (42%), and formal presentations that applicants prepared prior to arrival (39%). Most programs (71%) reported incorporating multiple assessments, with 2 assessments included most commonly (43%). Clinical assessment performance accounted for 10% to 25% of the overall interview score in approximately half of programs.

Conclusion

During onsite PGY1 residency interviews, applicants must be prepared to participate in at least 1 clinical knowledge and problem-solving assessment, including answering clinical questions, developing a SOAP note or care plan, and/or delivering a presentation. Applicants should expect that these assessments will account for a substantial portion of the interview evaluation.
Decolonizing Anglo-American Political Philosophy: The Case of Migration Justice
Authors: Jaggar I—Alison M
Published: April 2020

International migration is increasing not only in absolute terms but also as a percentage of the global population. In 2019, international migrants made up 3.5 per cent of the global population, compared to 2.8 per cent in the year 2000. Over the past two decades, a philosophical literature has emerged to investigate what justice requires with respect to these vast migrant flows. My article criticizes much of this philosophical work. Building on the work of Charles Mills (2015), I argue that the terms in which many Anglo-American philosophers presently debate migration justice neglect and even obscure consideration of the ways in which current migration flows may be shaped by Euro-American colonialism and neo-colonialism. Such exclusions produce systematic biases in much of our philosophical literature. To develop less biased understandings of migration justice, I propose that Anglo-American philosophers should revise our methods and our conceptual frameworks to enable exploring the possible extent and ethical implications of colonial and neo-colonial influence. This is one part of the much larger task of decolonizing our political philosophy.
Computational principles and practice for decoding immune contexture in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Zicheng , Bao Siqi , Yan Congcong , Hou Ping , Zhou Meng , Sun Jie
Published: April 2020

Tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) have been recognized as crucial components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and induced both beneficial and adverse consequences for tumorigenesis as well as outcome and therapy (particularly immunotherapy). Computer-aided investigation of immune cell components in the TME has become a promising avenue to better understand the interplay between the immune system and tumors. In this study, we presented an overview of data sources, computational methods and software tools, as well as their application in inferring the composition of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the TME. In parallel, we explored the future perspectives and challenges that may be faced with more accurate quantitative infiltration of immune cells in the future. Together, our study provides a little guide for scientists in the field of clinical and experimental immunology to look for dedicated resources and more competent tools for accelerating the unraveling of tumor-immune interactions with the implication in precision immunotherapy.
Codon optimization: a mathematical programing approach
Authors: Şen Alper , Kargar Kamyar , Akgün Esma , Pınar Mustafa Ç
Published: April 2020

Motivation

Synthesizing proteins in heterologous hosts is an important tool in biotechnology. However, the genetic code is degenerate and the codon usage is biased in many organisms. Synonymous codon changes that are customized for each host organism may have a significant effect on the level of protein expression. This effect can be measured by using metrics, such as codon adaptation index, codon pair bias, relative codon bias and relative codon pair bias. Codon optimization is designing codons that improve one or more of these objectives. Currently available algorithms and software solutions either rely on heuristics without providing optimality guarantees or are very rigid in modeling different objective functions and restrictions.

Results

We develop an effective mixed integer linear programing (MILP) formulation, which considers multiple objectives. Our numerical study shows that this formulation can be effectively used to generate (Pareto) optimal codon designs even for very long amino acid sequences using a standard commercial solver. We also show that one can obtain designs in the efficient frontier in reasonable solution times and incorporate other complex objectives, such as mRNA secondary structures in codon design using MILP formulations.

Availability and implementation

http://alpersen.bilkent.edu.tr/codonoptimization/CodonOptimization.zip.
Christian Integrity Regained: Reformational Worldview Engagement for Everyday Medical Practice
Authors: Tilburt Jon , Pacyna Joel , Rusthoven James
Published: April 2020

How does one committed to the claims of Christ and a biblical story of redemption live Christianly and navigate the competing worldviews encountered in everyday medical practice? Adopting the practical conceptual framework promoted by Reformed Christian philosopher and theologian Albert Wolters, we argue for an all-encompassing biblical understanding of God’s cosmic redemption plan for the entire creation order in contrast to a more typical sacred/secular duality. We then apply the concepts of structure and direction, drawn from a pretheological understanding of human life drawn from the Scripture, to a semi-fictional case study in discerning Christian faithfulness in everyday mundane aspects of medicine. Our subsequent analysis seeks to render an interpretation of what it means to live life consistent with that worldview when confronted with challenges like those presented in the case.
Cost-effectiveness of Antenatal Rescreening Among Pregnant Women for Hepatitis C in the United States
Authors: Chaillon Antoine , Wynn Adriane , Kushner Tatyana , Reau Nancy , Martin Natasha K
Published: April 2020

To inform proposed changes in hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening guidelines in the United States, we assessed the cost-effectiveness of HCV antenatal rescreening for women without evidence of HCV during a prior pregnancy, using a previously published model. Universal HCV rescreening among pregnant women was cost-effective (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio, $6000 per quality-adjusted life-year) and should be recommended nationally.
Revenant: a database of resurrected proteins
Authors: Carletti Matias Sebastian , Monzon Alexander Miguel , Garcia-Rios Emilio , Benitez Guillermo , Hirsh Layla , Fornasari Maria Silvina , Parisi Gustavo
Published: April 2020

Revenant is a database of resurrected proteins coming from extinct organisms. Currently, it contains a manually curated collection of 84 resurrected proteins derived from bibliographic data. Each protein is extensively annotated, including structural, biochemical and biophysical information. Revenant contains a browse capability designed as a timeline from where the different proteins can be accessed. The oldest Revenant entries are between 4200 and 3500 million years ago, while the younger entries are between 8.8 and 6.3 million years ago. These proteins have been resurrected using computational tools called ancestral sequence reconstruction techniques combined with wet-laboratory synthesis and expression. Resurrected proteins are commonly used, with a noticeable increase during the past years, to explore and test different evolutionary hypotheses such as protein stability, to explore the origin of new functions, to get biochemical insights into past metabolisms and to explore specificity and promiscuous behaviour of ancient proteins.
Patient preferences for preventive health checks in Danish general practice: a discrete choice experiment among patients at high risk of noncommunicable diseases
Authors: Larsen Lars Bruun , Thilsing Trine , Pedersen Line Bjørnskov
Published: April 2020

Background

Preventive health checks targeted at the at-risk population can be a way of preventing noncommunicable diseases. However, evidence on patient preferences for preventive health checks is limited, especially among patients with a high risk of noncommunicable diseases.

Objective

To examine patient preferences for preventive health checks in Danish general practice, targeting persons at high risk of a noncommunicable disease.

Methods

The method used in this study was a discrete choice experiment (DCE) with five attributes: assess, advice, agree, assist and arrange. The attributes were inspired by the 5A model for behaviour change counselling but was altered for the purpose of this study to grasp the entirety of the general practice-based intervention. Moreover, the attribute levels were defined to resemble daily clinical practice. The experimental design of the DCE was an efficient Bayesian main effects design and the results were analysed using a random utility theory framework.

Results

A total of 148 patients completed the DCE. Patients at high risk of a noncommunicable disease have positive preferences for: giving brief explanations about own lifestyle, practicing shared decision-making with the general practitioner (GP), follow-up counselling with the GP after the preventive health check and scheduling a new appointment right after the preventive health check.

Conclusions

The results provide Danish GPs with evidence on their patients’ preferences towards preventive health checks which will enable the GPs to tailor these consultations. Moreover, the results suggest that pre-appointment measures, such as a health profile, may mediate a preference for more action-oriented attributes.

Trial registration

Registered at Clinical Trial Gov (Unique Protocol ID: TOFpilot2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02797392?term=TOFpilot2016&rank=1). Prospectively registered on the 29th of April 2016.
Elucidating the unusual reaction kinetics of D-glucuronyl C5-epimerase
Authors: Vaidyanathan Deepika , Paskaleva Elena , Vargason Troy , Ke Xia , McCallum Scott A , Linhardt Robert J , Dordick Jonathan S
Published: April 2020

The chemoenzymatic synthesis of heparin, through a multienzyme process, represents a critical challenge in providing a safe and effective substitute for this animal-sourced anticoagulant drug. D-glucuronyl C5-epimerase (C5-epi) is an enzyme acting on a heparin precursor, N-sulfoheparosan, catalyzing the reversible epimerization of D-glucuronic acid (GlcA) to L-iduronic acid (IdoA). The absence of reliable assays for C5-epi has limited elucidation of the enzymatic reaction and kinetic mechanisms. Real time and offline assays are described that rely on 1D 1H NMR to study the activity of C5-epi. Apparent steady-state kinetic parameters for both the forward and the pseudo-reverse reactions of C5-epi are determined for the first time using polysaccharide substrates directly relevant to the chemoenzymatic synthesis and biosynthesis of heparin. The forward reaction shows unusual sigmoidal kinetic behavior, and the pseudo-reverse reaction displays nonsaturating kinetic behavior. The atypical sigmoidal behavior of the forward reaction was probed using a range of buffer additives. Surprisingly, the addition of 25 mM each of CaCl2 and MgCl2 resulted in a forward reaction exhibiting more conventional Michaelis–Menten kinetics. The addition of 2-O-sulfotransferase, the next enzyme involved in heparin synthesis, in the absence of 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate, also resulted in C5-epi exhibiting a more conventional Michaelis–Menten kinetic behavior in the forward reaction accompanied by a significant increase in apparent Vmax. This study provides critical information for understanding the reaction kinetics of C5-epi, which may result in improved methods for the chemoenzymatic synthesis of bioengineered heparin.
AMS Neve and Others (C-172/18): Looking for a Greater ‘Degree of Consistency’ Between the Special Jurisdiction Rule for EU Trade Marks and National Trade Marks
Authors: Lundstedt Lydia
Published: April 2020

The Court of Justice of the European Union’s (CJEU) judgment in AMS Neve and others (C-172/18) clarifies how to interpret the concept ‘the Member State in which the act of infringement has been committed or threatened’ in the rule on special jurisdiction in the European Union Trade Mark Regulation. The CJEU held that Art. 125(5) should be interpreted to mean that the right holder may bring an action before an EU trade mark court of the Member State within which the consumers or traders to whom advertising and offers for sale are directed are located, even if the defendant took decisions and steps in another Member State to bring about that electronic display.

With this judgment the CJEU introduces a targeting approach, which is something it has declined to do for the corresponding rule in Art. 7(2) Brussels Recast that applies to infringements of national trade marks. While the targeting approach is encouraging, the CJEU will need to clarify it to fulfil the objective of legal certainty. In addition, the CJEU appears to have interpreted Art. 125(5) EUTMR to exclude the Member State of activation. This is in contrast to Art. 7(2) Brussels Recast, which gives a right holder a choice between the Member State of activation and the Member State where the trade mark is registered. The article concludes that there is no justification for these differences in the special rules on jurisdiction applicable to EU trade marks and national trades.
Fisheries for the future: greenhouse gas emission consequences of different fishery reference points
Authors: Hornborg Sara , Smith Anthony D M
Published: April 2020

Global fisheries have for long been scrutinized in terms of ecosystem effects but only more recently for their greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions are dominated by fuel use on fishing vessels and the levels are often neglected side effects of resource overexploitation. Using a simple production model, Pella-Tomlinson, we illustrate how fuel efficiency (fuel use per unit of catch) varies with the level of exploitation and biomass depletion. For this model, fuel use per unit catch rises hyperbolically with fishing effort—it is relatively flat at low levels of effort but rises steeply as effort increases and biomass and catch decline. In light of these findings, the general fuel efficiency relationship with common fishery reference points on stock status is discussed, as well as other means of reducing fuel use and thus greenhouse gas emissions. We conclude that much may be gained by considering fuel efficiency in setting reference points for target stock biomass in fisheries and encourage further investigations.