bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of oxophilic Mo species in Pt/MgO catalysts as extremely active sites for enhanced hydrodeoxygenation of dibenzofuran
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhao Chengcheng , Li Chuang , Li Shenggang , Tsang Chi-Wing , Liang Changhai
Published: March 2020

The catalytic performance of the selective hydrodeoxygenation of dibenzofuran can be controlled by the MoOxsurface density and varied with the increased MoOxsurface density in a volcano-shape manner.
Atomistic insight in the flexibility and heat transport properties of the stimuli-responsive metal–organic framework MIL-53(Al) for water-adsorption applications using molecular simulations
Authors: Lamaire Aran , Wieme Jelle , Hoffman Alexander E. J. , Van Speybroeck Veronique
Published: March 2020

Insight into the heat transport and water-adsorption properties of the flexible MIL-53(Al) is obtained using advanced molecular dynamics simulations.
3D printing of anisotropic polymer nanocomposites with aligned BaTiO3 nanowires for enhanced energy density
Authors: Luo Hang , Zhou Xuefan , Guo Ru , Yuan Xi , Chen Hehao , Abrahams Isaac , Zhang Dou
Published: March 2020

High-performance flexible poly(vinylidene fluoride–chlorotrifluoroethylene) (P(VDF–CTFE)) nanocomposites with aligned BaTiO3 nanowires using 3D printing technology were demonstrated.
Ecofriendly ruthenium-containing nanomaterials: synthesis, characterization, electrochemistry, bioactivity and catalysis
Authors: Gupta Pranshu K. , Mishra Lallan
Published: March 2020

The review classifies these ecofriendly synthesized Ru nanomaterials designed to date on the basis of their synthetic strategy.
Supramolecular and theoretical perspectives of 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine based Ni(ii) and Cu(ii) complexes: on the importance of C–H⋯Cl and π⋯π interactions
Authors: Pal Pampi , Das Kinsuk , Hossain Anowar , Frontera Antonio , Mukhopadhyay Subrata
Published: March 2020

In this manuscript we report the synthesis and X-ray characterization of two new Ni(ii) and Cu(ii) complexes using 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine as a ligand and chloride as a coligand.
Synthesis of 2-aroylfuro[3,2-c]quinolines from quinolone-based chalcones and evaluation of their antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities
Authors: Ferreira João P. S. , Cardoso Susana M. , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Silva Artur M. S. , Silva Vera L. M.
Published: March 2020

A series of 2-aroylfuro[3,2-c]quinolines2a–ewas synthetized from quinolone-based chalcones1a–e. When R =ortho-OH, an unexpected compound3was also obtained. Compounds,2aand2c, showed significant inhibition of acetylcholinesterase enzyme.
N-Doped carbon-supported Au-modified NiFe alloy nanoparticle composite catalysts for BH4− electrooxidation
Authors: Yi Lanhua , Meng Yuan , Yang Shaobo , Fei Junjie , Ding Yonglan , Wang Xianyou , Lu Yebo
Published: March 2020

A nitrogen-doped carbon-supported Au-modified NiFe alloy nanoparticle composite catalyst (Au/NiFe/N–C) has been prepared by a simple method and used as an electrocatalyst for the BH4− oxidation reaction (BOR).
Exploring catecholase activity in dinuclear Mn(ii) and Cu(ii) complexes: an experimental and theoretical approach
Authors: Ahmad M. Shahwaz , Khalid Mohd , Khan M. Shahnawaz , Shahid M. , Ahmad Musheer , Monika  , Ansari Azaj , Ashafaq Mo
Published: March 2020

Two dinuclear Mn(ii) and Cu(ii) complexes were prepared, characterised and assessed for non-covalent interactions and catecholase oxidase properties. The catecholase activity of2is further corroborated by theoretical calculations using DFT.
Synthesis and investigation of the electrical properties of novel liquid-crystal phthalocyanines bearing triple branched alkylthia chains
Authors: Canımkurbey Betül , Taşkan Mustafa Can , Demir Sevde , Duygulu Ercan , Atilla Devrim , Yuksel Fatma
Published: March 2020

The synthesis and electrical characterization of liquid crystalline and conducting properties of novel peripheral- and non-peripheral-tetra 2-(tri(hexylthio))ethoxy- and 2-(tri(octylthio))ethoxy-substituted copper(ii) phthalocyanines have been reported.
The first example of “turn-off” red fluorescence photoswitching for the representatives of nitrile-rich negative photochromes
Authors: Belikov Mikhail Yu. , Ievlev Mikhail Yu. , Fedoseev Sergey V. , Ershov Oleg V.
Published: March 2020

The first example of reversible fluorescence photoswitching by visible light was shown for the representatives of negative photochromes containing a nitrile-rich acceptor.
Oxygen vacancy-rich amorphous porous NiFe(OH)x derived from Ni(OH)x/Prussian blue as highly efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Shuang , Ge Xingbo , Lv Chao , Hu Cun , Guan Hongtai , Wu Jing , Wang Zhengnan , Yang Xianhui , Shi Yan , Song Jiangfeng , Zhang Zhi , Watanabe Akira , Cai Jinguang
Published: March 2020

Oxygen vacancy-rich amorphous porous NiFe(OH)x on carbon paper is prepared through a two-step electrochemical depostion of Prussian blue nanocrystal layer and Ni(OH)x layer followed by an alkaline etching process for efficient OER catalysis.
Separation of nanoparticles via surfing on chemical wavefronts
Authors: Cui Ru-Fei , Chen Qing-Hu , Chen Jiang-Xing
Published: March 2020

A strategy for separating small suspending colloids by means of their surfing on substrate chemical wavefronts is put forward.
Biochemical characterisation of an α1,4 galactosyltransferase from Neisseria weaveri for the synthesis of α1,4-linked galactosides
Authors: Huang Kun , Marchesi Andrea , Hollingsworth Kristian , Both Peter , Mattey Ashley P. , Pallister Edward , Ledru Helene , Charnock Simon J. , Galan M. Carmen , Turnbull W. Bruce , Parmeggiani Fabio , Flitsch Sabine L.
Published: March 2020

A new α1,4 galactosyltransferase has been characterised and used for the synthesis of natural and non-natural cell surface trisaccharide antigens.
Highly efficient and stable CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots by encapsulation in dual-shell hollow silica spheres for WLEDs
Authors: Qiu Lei , Yang Hang , Dai Zhigao , Sun Fengxu , Hao Jiarui , Guan Mengyu , Dang Peipei , Yan Chunjie , Lin Jun , Li Guogang
Published: March 2020

A highly stable and efficient CsPbBr3@SiO2 composite phosphor is achieved by protecting the CsPbBr3 QDs from direct exposure to the atmosphere by encapsulating CsPbBr3 into dual-shell hollow silica nanospheres.
Spatially separated bimetallic cocatalysts on hollow-structured TiO2 for photocatalytic hydrogen generation
Authors: She Ping , Qin Jun-sheng , Rao Heng , Guan Buyuan , Yu Jihong
Published: March 2020

A hollow-structured TiO2 decorated with spatially separated bimetallic cocatalysts (Pd@TiO2@Au) was obtained, which exhibited superior photo-induced charge separation by combining the SPR effect of Au NPs and the smaller size effect of Pd NPs.
Halogen-sensitive solvatochromism based on a phenolic polymer of tetraphenylethene
Authors: Kakuta Takahiro , Nakanishi Ryota , Ogoshi Tomoki , Yamagishi Tada-aki
Published: March 2020

Herein, we describe novel phenolic polymer showed solvatochromism in response to halogenated organic solvents through halogen/π interactions.
Effect of synthesis pH and EDTA on iron hexacyanoferrate for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Neale Zachary G. , Liu Chaofeng , Cao Guozhong
Published: March 2020

Adjusting synthesis pH of EDTA chelate assisted precipitation of FeHCF affects particle size, vacancies, water content, and redox activity.
Near-infrared-driven water splitting for hydrogen evolution using a Cu2ZnSnS4-based photocathode by the application of upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Feng Kuang , Cai Zhiwang , Huang Dingwang , Li Lintao , Wang Kang , Li Yan , Wang Chenyang , Song Jie , Zhao Lingzhi , Wei Wei , Jiang Feng
Published: March 2020

A Cu2ZnSnS4 based photoelectrode is driven to water splitting by NIR light which is converted to green visible light by upconversion nanoparticles.
Growth of a bubble cloud in CO2-saturated water under microgravity
Authors: Vega-Martínez Patricia , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Javier , van der Meer Devaraj
Published: March 2020

Microgravity experiments allow the observation of the purely diffusive growth of a foam ball for long times.
Revealing the compositional effect on the intrinsic long-term stability of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Xie Liqiang , Song Peiquan , Shen Lina , Lu Jianxun , Liu Kaikai , Lin Kebin , Feng Wenjing , Tian Chengbo , Wei Zhanhua
Published: March 2020

The trap-density of perovskites can be suppressed by component doping, which is beneficial for improving the operational stability of perovskite solar cells.
Plasmonic gel nanocomposites for detection of high energy electrons
Authors: Pushpavanam Karthik , Inamdar Sahil , Dutta Subhadeep , Bista Tomasz , Sokolowski Thaddeus , Sapareto Stephen , Rege Kaushal
Published: March 2020

The development of a plasmonic gel nanocomposite to detect therapeutic levels of high energy electrons is demonstrated.
Effects of corticosteroids on COPD lung macrophage phenotype and function
Authors: Higham Andrew , Scott Tom , Li Jian , Gaskell Rosemary , Dikwa Aisha Baba , Shah Rajesh , Montero-Fernandez M. Angeles , Lea Simon , Singh Dave
Published: March 2020

The numbers of macrophages are increased in the lungs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. COPD lung macrophages have reduced ability to phagocytose microbes and efferocytose apoptotic cells. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) are widely used anti-inflammatory drugs in COPD; however, their role beyond suppression of cytokine release has not been explored in COPD macrophages. We have examined the effects of corticosteroids on COPD lung macrophage phenotype and function.

Lung macrophages from controls and COPD patients were treated with corticosteroids; effects on gene and protein expression of CD163, CD164, CD206, MERTK, CD64, CD80 and CD86 were studied. We also examined the effect of corticosteroids on the function of CD163, MERTK and cluster of differentiation 64 (CD64).

Corticosteroid increased CD163, CD164, CD206 and MERTK expression and reduced CD64, CD80 and CD86 expression. We also observed an increase in the uptake of the haemoglobin–haptoglobin complex (CD163) from 59 up to 81% and an increase in efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils (MERTK) from 15 up to 28% following corticosteroid treatment. We observed no effect on bacterial phagocytosis.

Corticosteroids alter the phenotype and function of COPD lung macrophages. Our findings suggest mechanisms by which corticosteroids exert therapeutic benefit in COPD, reducing iron available for bacterial growth and enhancing efferocytosis.
An inducible intestinal epithelial cell-specific NHE3 knockout mouse model mimicking congenital sodium diarrhea
Authors: Xue Jianxiang , Thomas Linto , Tahmasbi Maryam , Valdez Alexandria , Dominguez Rieg Jessica A. , Fenton Robert A. , Rieg Timo
Published: March 2020

The sodium–hydrogen exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3, SLC9A3) is abundantly expressed in the gastrointestinal tract and is proposed to play essential roles in Na+ and fluid absorption as well as acid–base homeostasis. Mutations in the SLC9A3 gene can cause congenital sodium diarrhea (CSD). However, understanding the precise role of intestinal NHE3 has been severely hampered due to the lack of a suitable animal model. To navigate this problem and better understand the role of intestinal NHE3, we generated a tamoxifen-inducible intestinal epithelial cell-specific NHE3 knockout mouse model (NHE3IEC-KO). Before tamoxifen administration, the phenotype and blood parameters of NHE3IEC-KO were unremarkable compared with control mice. After tamoxifen administration, NHE3IEC-KO mice have undetectable levels of NHE3 in the intestine. NHE3IEC-KO mice develop watery, alkaline diarrhea in combination with a swollen small intestine, cecum and colon. The persistent diarrhea results in higher fluid intake. After 3 weeks, NHE3IEC-KO mice show a ∼25% mortality rate. The contribution of intestinal NHE3 to acid–base and Na+ homeostasis under normal conditions becomes evident in NHE3IEC-KO mice that have metabolic acidosis, lower blood bicarbonate levels, hyponatremia and hyperkalemia associated with drastically elevated plasma aldosterone levels. These results demonstrate that intestinal NHE3 has a significant contribution to acid–base, Na+ and volume homeostasis, and lack of intestinal NHE3 has consequences on intestinal structural integrity. This mouse model mimics and explains the phenotype of individuals with CSD carrying SLC9A3 mutations.
Analysis of radionuclides in microsystem: application to the selective recovery of 55Fe by solvent extraction
Authors: Rassou Somasoudrame , Mariet Clarisse , Vercouter Thomas
Published: March 2020

The minimization of the sample quantities required by analytical laboratories, as well as the increase of the fastness of the analytical operations are emerging axes for improved radiochemical analyses related to D&D issues. Two microsystem-based protocols were developed for the selective recovery of 55Fe from radioactive samples by solvent extraction. Both protocols were tested on iron solutions in two different microchips. The yields of Fe extraction were compared with macroscale batch experiments. Better performances with more than 80% of iron extracted were obtained with the second protocol, which is based on a reactive transfer of the iron cation, and more suited to the use of microchannels and very low contact times. This study already demonstrate the high potential of microfluidic technology to improve analytical operations on D&D samples. This method will further be validated with radioactive samples.
Reinforcement of magnesium Elektron 21 with aluminium nitride (AlN) nanoparticles dispersed using a travelling magnetic field
Authors: Garrido Mariano , Davoust Laurent , Daudin Rémi , Salvo Luc , Sillekens Wim , Fautrelle Yves
Published: March 2020

Magnesium alloy Elektron 21 is commonly used in aerospace structural parts in which good creep resistance and lightness are required. This alloy maintains good mechanical properties at temperatures as high as 200 °C. One mechanism with high potential for improving mechanical properties of magnesium alloys at a high temperature is dispersion-strengthening based on nanoparticles. In this paper, we analyse the properties of magnesium Elektron 21 samples solidified with nanoparticles of aluminium nitride dispersed by an electromagnetic stirring provided from a travelling magnetic field. X-ray tomography and X-ray spectrometry as well as compression tests at several temperatures (350, 400 and 450 °C) are carried out on samples containing the nanoparticles. The present study extends the knowledge on the processing by alternative techniques and on the enhancement of creep behaviour at higher temperatures for such metal matrix composites compared to previous studies.
Réduire les émissions de particules des véhicules diesel par l’utilisation de biodiesel
Authors: Guizouarn Kristell
Published: March 2020

Les véhicules diesel ont un rendement énergétique plus élevé, mais ils produisent davantage de particules que les moteurs à essence ordinaires. Il existe deux moyens efficaces de réduire considérablement les émissions de particules du moteur diesel : le filtre à particules, et l’utilisation de biodiesel. En effet, la composition du carburant a un impact direct sur la combustion, et donc sur les émissions de polluants. Une teneur élevée en biodiesel permet de réduire le nombre de particules produites. Plus la quantité de biodiesel dans le carburant mélangé est importante, moins des particules sont émises. Lorsque les technologies de filtre et de biodiesel sont combinées, les émissions de particules sont quasi-inexistantes.
Auf der Suche nach Objektivität – das Reflexologie-Konzept als Versuch einer mechanistischen Seelenkunde
Authors: Engmann Birk
Published: March 2020

Mit der Reflexologie entstand in den ersten drei Jahrzehnten des 20. Jahrhunderts in Russland ein eigenständiges, Universalität beanspruchendes Konzept, welches sowohl psychische Störungen, psychisches Normalerleben als auch massenpsychologische Phänomene erklären sollte. Es beeinflusste den Behaviorismus und war wie jener eine Antwort auf die Suche nach einer objektiven Methode der Untersuchung psychischer Vorgänge. Wichtige Protagonisten waren Vladimir Michajlovič Bechterev und Naum Efimovič Išlondskij (Ischlondsky), deren Schriften internationale Verbreitung fanden.
A Phytochemical and Ethnopharmacological Recapitulation on Hamelia patens
Authors: Noor Gazala , Ahmad Md.Afroz , Ahsan Farogh , Mahmood Tarique , Arif Muhammad , Khushtar Mohammad
Published: March 2020

The world health organization reports that 80% of the population living within the developing countries depends basically on traditional medicine for his or her primary health care. Quite half the entire world's population still depends entirely on plants for medicines, and plants provides the active ingredients to the most traditional medical products. Hamelia patens that belong to the family Rubiaceae, is mainly found in tropical and sub-tropical areas. It is used in folk medicine against a wide range of diseases such as athlete’s foot, skin problems, insect sting, psychiatric disorder, rheumatism, headache, asthma, dysentery, menses, ovarian and uterine disorders. Hamelia consists of an important bioactive constituent such as oxindole alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic content. Due to the presence of chlorogenic acid and epicatechin constituent in the methanolic extract of Hamelia patens, there is a noticeable anti-hyperglycemic activity as well as it possesses antioxidant activity. Acute and sub-acute toxicity study has been performed on Hamelia patens which shows that it is safe and can be used for humans. Against fungi and bacteria, the ethanol leaf extract of Hamelia has a maximum inhibitory effect. The plant has various therapeutic effects like anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diarrheal, anthelmintic, antidepressant, hepatoprotective, antiurolithiatic, diuretic, wound healing, and many others. In this article, we have discussed chemical constituent, pharmacological activity and traditional use of Hamelia patens.
Reference values for quantitative parameters in renal scintigraphy with Tc-99m-MAG3
Authors: Eilsberger Friederike , Reiber Constantin , Luster Markus , Librizzi Damiano , Pfestroff Andreas , Verburg Frederik A.
Published: March 2020

Background Reference values are the basis for an increase of standardisation and examiner independence, and thus an improvement in the inter-institutional comparability. However for renal Mercaptoacetyltriglycin (MAG3)-scintigraphy the establishment of such values however did not find its way into clinical routine despite the convincing advantages.

Aim The aim was to establish reference values for the decisive quantitative parameters of MAG3 renal scintigraphy. The reference values should help to significantly improve and facilitate the interpretation of the examination results in everyday clinical practice.

Methods We retrospectively evaluated all MAG3 renal scintigraphies performed in the Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Marburg between 01/2014 and 08/2017. The total sample of non-pathological renal scintigrafies included 247 patients aged between 25 days and 88 years. All investigtions were performed according to the present guidelines of the German Association for Nuclear Medicine. We analysed the ratio from pulse count rate after 20 minutes/Time (T) max and the Tmax separately.

Results Reference values for the Tmax and 20 min/T(max) count ratio of the MAG3 renal scintigraphy were defined for all adults over 18 years and divided by age catogories. For children aged 0–0.5 years and 0.5–2 years reference values for Tmax were defined.

Conclusion The results show a high degree of consistency with the reference values screened out in previous studies. This underlines the reliability of the reference values as a diagnostic tool in clinical application. The defined values are clinically feasible and promise a simplified and improved interpretation of the MAG3 renal scintigraphy.
Cobalt(III)-Catalyzed Redox-Neutral Coupling of Acrylamides with Activated Alkenes via C–H Bond Activation
Authors: Jeganmohan Masilamani , Keerthana Meledath Sudhakaran , Manoharan Ramasamy
Published: March 2020

A cobalt(III)-catalyzed coupling of substituted acrylamides with maleimides in the presence of 30 mol% pivalic acid providing olefin-migrated succinimide derivatives in a redox-neutral manner is described. The coupling reaction was examined with various substituted acrylamides and maleimides. The scope of the C–H alkylation reaction was also examined with substituted acrylates. A possible reaction mechanism involving a five-membered cobaltocycle as a key intermediate is proposed.
Nickel-Catalyzed Favorskii-Type Rearrangement of Cyclobutanone Oxime Esters to Cyclopropanecarbonitriles
Authors: Fang Ping , Mei Tian-Sheng , Shuai Bin
Published: March 2020

A nickel-catalyzed base-promoted rearrangement of cyclo­butanone oxime esters to cyclopropanecarbonitriles was developed. The ring opening of cyclobutanone oxime esters occurs at the sterically less hindered side. A base-promoted nickelacyclobutane intermediate, formed in situ, is assumed to be involved in the formation of the product.
Diabetes and HIV
Authors: Salam Ranabir , Bajaj Sarita , Kapoor Nitin , Saboo Banshi , Dasgupta Arundhati
Published: March 2020

In India, the prevalence of HIV infection among adults (15–49 years) is estimated at 0.26%. The total number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in India was estimated at 21.17 lakhs in 2015. There has been a declining trend in the mortality rate of HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). With HIV becoming a chronic manageable disease, metabolic complications like diabetes mellitus (DM) and dyslipidemia are coming to the forefront. Generally, protease inhibitors (PI) are implicated in metabolic derangement; however, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) like stavudine can also cause diabetes. Among HIV-infected patients, the prevalence of diabetes is reported to range from 2 to 19%, so there is strong case for screening of diabetes among HIV-infected cases. The South Asian Consensus Guidelines recommend that both fasting and postprandial glucose values should be checked at screening and during monitoring of therapy. National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) recommends fasting plasma glucose with value ≥ 126 mg% diagnostic of diabetes mellitus. HbA1c may underestimate the degree of hyperglycemia in HIV-infected individuals and may not be a good diagnostic tool. Lifestyle modification is recommended as part of treatment. Metformin should be used with caution in HIV patients. Concomitant use of metformin with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) can cause lactic acidosis. Thiazolidinediones should be the drug of choice in HIV, particularly in patients with lipodystrophy. Insulin secretagogues (meglitinides and sulfonylureas) are safe but may not be effective in the presence of severe insulin resistance. There are concerns regarding the use of gliptins in HIV-infected patients as they have molecular targets on immune cells. Insulin should be the drug of choice for HIV-infected patients with marked hyperglycemia (HbA1c > 9%), ketonuria, severe liver disease, or severe kidney disease. SGLT2 inhibitor may increase the risk of urinary tract infection and genital mycotic infections in HIV-infected diabetics. Regarding the use of ART among HIV patients with diabetes, NACO guidelines recommend that Tenofovir, lamivudine, and efavirenz should be used as first-line ART for all new patients, except known cases of severe diabetes, severe hypertension, or renal disease. Tenofovir, lamivudine, and lopinavir/ritonavir should be used as first line in women ever exposed to single dose Nevirapine in the past and also for all confirmed HIV-2 or HIV-1 & 2 coinfected patients. HIV infected with diabetes mellitus and microalbuminuria or proteinuria need Abacavir-based regimen (Abacavir + Lamivudine + Efavirenz). There is some suggestion that PI-based regimes should be avoided in patients at high risk of developing diabetes, for example, those with a history of gestational diabetes, positive family history of diabetes, or impaired glucose tolerance on screening.
Assets, Aims, Actions, Alignment, Audit: 5As in Diabetes
Authors: Joshi Ameya
Published: March 2020

This brief communication shares the importance of the Alignment of the 3As, that is Assets, Aims, and Actions, while managing diabetes. It describes the essence of asset analysis, target decision-making, and therapeutic planning strategies. Calling for regular Audits of diabetes care, it reinforces the importance of this policy at the level of the person with diabetes, diabetes care provider, and healthcare system.
Common Controversies in Critical Care Nutrition: Review of Latest Evidences
Authors: Joshi Anshu , Mehta Yatin
Published: March 2020

Context Critical care nutrition favorably influences patient prognosis and remains an essential component of overall patient care. Various guidelines and literature discuss the modalities, benefits, and other finer details of nutrition in intensive care units. Critical care nutrition is still an emerging modality and hence, ambiguity/subjectivity exists in various aspects. Clear recommendations are not there, especially when it comes to diverse topics such as nutrition screening/assessment, underfeeding patients, types of nutrition formulae, monitoring nutrition adequacy, and tolerance and likewise. This article is an attempt to address couple of these concerns and review the latest evidences/guidelines in context of nutrition screening/assessment and monitoring tolerance by measuring gastric residual volumes (GRVs).

Evidence Acquisition Various literature including existing guidelines, original articles, and review articles published till September 2019 and discussing the specifics of nutrition screening/assessment and monitoring tolerance by measuring gastric residuals were searched on popular scientific databases such as PubMed, Scholar Google, and Embase and reviewed for contextual relevance.

Results Majority of the recommendations/evidences in this regard are either inconsistent or incomplete. Most of the tools that are recommended for nutrition screening/assessment of critical care patients are not validated for this population. Majority of literature is unanimous on not recommending biochemical parameters to be used for this purpose. Recommendations for the acceptable values of GRVs are consistent but subjectivity exits on the frequency of measurement, timing of measurement in relation to meals, and other variables.

Conclusion Till the time, nutrition screening/assessment tools for critical care patients are validated in large multicentric settings, it would be prudent to adhere to the recommendations of existing guidelines. Similarly, GRV practices and cutoff values can be followed from relevant guidelines.
Existence of solutions for a fractional equation in an unbounded domain
Authors: Esfahani Amin
Published: March 2020

This paper focuses on the scalar field equation Dx2αu−νu−uyy=f(u), where α ∈ (0, 1), (x,y)∈RN×(−L,L)⊂RN+1, with N ≥ 1 and Dx2α stands for the fractional Laplacian. By using several variational methods, we establish the existence, long behavior, and multiplicity of solutions of this equation under the Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions.
Unraveling the transition from secondary electron emission dominated to surface charge trap dominated electronic avalanche process along the solid dielectric surface in vacuum
Authors: Li Zhen , Xu Haoming , Zheng Xu , Zhang Le , Li Shengtao
Published: March 2020

Electron-surface interaction plays a fundamental role in surface science, which could evolve into an electronic avalanche under a high electrical field, resulting in devastating device failures. In the present study, using a thin polymer film approach, the effective surface layer, whose thickness is estimated to be about 200 nm, where the electron-surface interaction occurs is directly probed. The morphological evolution of thin polymer films with thicknesses from nanometers to micrometers is investigated with a focus on its influence on the electron avalanche process (or flashover) under a dc electric field in vacuum. It is found that the film thickness dependence of flashover is divided into three parts, i.e., fast increase, slow increase, and saturation, each of which has a dominant microscopic mechanism. The results indicate that the secondary electron emission (SEE) yield decreases significantly even when a discontinuous polymer layer is deposited, which varies little afterward. In contrast, the shallow surface traps develop into deep ones with the film thickness. The density ratio of deep traps increases exponentially after a continuous film is formed. The clear transition from SEE dominated to surface charge trap dominated flashover and their unique dependence on film morphology provide a deeper insight into the electron-surface interaction, which can be used for theoretical modeling, surface modification, and advanced functional devices.
Hybrid band offset calculation for heterojunction interfaces between disparate semiconductors
Authors: Zhang Zhaofu , Guo Yuzheng , Lu Haichang , Clark Stewart J. , Robertson John
Published: March 2020

Accurate band offset calculations are challenging for heterojunction interfaces that consist of two very different host materials. For this, the key requirement is to have the correct bandgap of each material at the same time. A hybrid calculation scheme (HSE/-U scheme) is proposed to model the band offsets of such interfaces. Our HSE/-U method applies the hybrid functional for the whole interface supercell, but with an additional “reverse GGA+U” on the narrow gap semiconductor side, guaranteeing the correct bandgaps on both sides. Several supercell calculations of dielectric films including HfO2, ZrO2, Al2O3, TiO2, and GaN on an insulating phase VO2 are tested to verify it. All the studied oxides show the type-I band alignment with VO2, and the band edge line-up agrees well with the available experimental reports, supporting the reliability of the proposed hybrid calculation scheme.
Continuous-wave operation of vertically emitting ring interband cascade lasers at room temperature
Authors: Knötig Hedwig , Hinkov Borislav , Weih Robert , Höfling Sven , Koeth Johannes , Strasser Gottfried
Published: March 2020

We present vertical light emission in continuous-wave mode from an interband cascade laser (ICL) at a record temperature of up to 38 °C. These results pave the way toward a more efficient and compact integration of this technology in mobile spectroscopic applications. Our approach employs ring cavity ICLs that are mounted epi-side down for efficient heat extraction from the devices. The vertical single-mode emission relies on a metallized second-order distributed-feedback grating designed for an emission wavelength of 3.8 μm. A single lateral mode operation is favored by a narrow waveguide width of 4 μm. Optical output powers of more than 6 mW were measured at 20 °C for rings with a diameter of ∼800 μm. At this temperature, the threshold current-density amounted to 0.60 kA/cm2 and the device showed continuous current and temperature tuning rates of 0.06 nm/mA and 0.37 nm/K, respectively.
Spin-wave resonance in gradient ferromagnets with concave and convex variations of magnetic parameters
Authors: Ignatchenko V. A. , Tsikalov D. S.
Published: March 2020

The theory of spin-wave resonance in gradient ferromagnetic films with magnetic parameters varying in space described by both concave and convex quadratic functions is developed. Gradient structures such as a potential well, a potential barrier, and a monotonic change in potential between the film surfaces for both quadratic functions are considered. The waveforms of oscillations mn(z), the laws of the dependence of discrete frequencies ωn, and relative susceptibilities χn/χ10 of spin-wave resonances on the resonance number n are studied. It is shown that the law ωn∝n for n<nc, where nc is the resonance level near the upper edge of the gradient inhomogeneity, which is well known for a parabolic potential well, is also valid for the potential barrier and for the monotonic change in potential, if these structures are formed by a concave quadratic function. It is shown that the law ωn∝(n−1/2)1/2, which we numerically derived and approximated by the analytical formula, is valid for all three structures formed by a convex quadratic function. It is shown that the magnetic susceptibility χn of spin-wave resonances for n<nc is much greater than the susceptibility of resonances in a uniform film. An experimental study of both laws ωn(n) and χn(n) would allow one to determine the type of quadratic function that formed the gradient structure and the form of this structure. The possibility of creating gradient films with different laws ωn(n) and the high magnitude of the high-frequency magnetic susceptibility χn(n) at n<nc make these metamaterials promising for practical applications.
Structural and transport properties of Cu/Ta(N)/Cu interfaces in vertical interconnects
Authors: Lanzillo Nicholas A. , Clevenger Lawrence , Robison Robert R. , Edelstein Daniel C.
Published: March 2020

We use first-principles calculations to investigate the structural and transport properties of various Cu/Ta(N)/Cu interface stacks, which are representative of the metal interfaces located at the bottom of vertical interconnects in state-of-the-art back-end-of-line technology. In particular, we consider approximately 2-nm thick layers of several different Ta-based barrier layers sandwiched between two Cu(111) layers, including TaN, α-Ta, β-Ta, and a bilayer TaN/α-Ta structure. Our results highlight that the bilayer Cu/TaN/α-Ta/Cu structure shows both an attractive combination of low electrical resistance and superior dielectric adhesion. We also find that inelastic phonon transport across the interface structures is largely determined by the frequency overlap of the bulk-like phonon density of states of each metal layer. Our results are fed into a simple interconnect performance benchmarking model based on a single-driver signal wire, where we find that metal barrier optimization can result in a net 2.5% stage delay reduction without comprising reliability.
Quasi-elastic neutron scattering study of the effects of metal cations on the hydration water between phospholipid bilayers
Authors: Seto H. , Yamada T.
Published: March 2020

The effects of metal cations bound at phospholipid headgroups on hydration water molecules were investigated by quasi-elastic neutron scattering experiments. The hydration water could be categorized into three types—tightly bound water, loosely bound water, and free water—as observed in the case of a mixture of phospholipid and water without salt. When CaCl2 was added to the mixture, the numbers of these three types of water molecules remained unchanged. In contrast, when MgCl2 or FeCl2 was added to the mixture, the number of tightly bound water molecules increased, while the number of loosely bound water molecules remained unaffected. These results are consistent with the x-ray diffraction results, which suggested that Mg2+ and Fe2+ ions bind near the phosphate groups and enhance the extent of hydration, while Ca2+ ions bind near the glycerol groups with no significant effect on hydration water. The results demonstrate that the number of loosely bound water molecules is determined by the nature of the phospholipid membrane.
Wavelength-independent optical fully differential operation based on the spin–orbit interaction of light
Authors: He Shanshan , Zhou Junxiao , Chen Shizhen , Shu Weixing , Luo Hailu , Wen Shuangchun
Published: March 2020

Optical technology may provide important architectures for future computing, such as analog optical computing and image processing. Compared with traditional electric operation, optical operation has shown some unique advantages including faster operating speeds and lower power consumption. Here, we propose an optical full differentiator based on the spin–orbit interaction of light at a simple optical interface. The optical differential operation is independent of the wavelength due to the purely geometric nature of the phenomenon. As an important application of the fully differential operation, the wavelength-independent image processing of edge detection is demonstrated. By adjusting the polarization of the incident beam, the one-dimension edge imaging at any desirable direction can be obtained. The wavelength-independent image processing of edge detection provides possible applications in autonomous driving, target recognition, microscopic imaging, and augmented reality.
Sperm display surprising reorientation and velocity recovery when encountering an obstacle
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: March 2020

Improved models of this behavior may help predict sperm dynamics during sperm selection for in vitro fertilization methods.
Constrained dipole moment density functional theory for charge distributions in force fields for the study of molecular fluids
Authors: Carmona-Espíndola Javier , Núñez-Rojas Edgar , García-Melgarejo Valeria , Gázquez José L. , Alejandre José
Published: March 2020

A new procedure, based on electronic structure calculations that only requires a dipole moment value for a given molecule as input and, from which the charges for all the atoms in it are uniquely determined, is developed and applied to the study of molecular fluids with classical dynamics. The dipole moment value considered for the isolated molecule is the one that reproduces the dielectric constant of its corresponding fluid. Following previous work, the Lennard-Jones parameters are determined to reproduce the liquid density and the surface tension at the liquid–vapor interface. The force field thus obtained leads to a reasonable description of several properties such as heats of vaporization, self-diffusion coefficients, shear viscosities, isothermal compressibilities, and volumetric expansion coefficients of pure substances.
Hydrogen-terminated diamond field-effect transistor with a bilayer dielectric of HfSiON/Al2O3
Authors: Hussain Jibran , Abbasi Haris Naeem , Wang Wei , Wang Yan-Feng , Wang Ruozheng , Wang Hong-Xing
Published: March 2020

The fabrication of a single-crystal hydrogen-terminated diamond metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) with HfSiON/Al2O3 bilayer dielectric has been carried out. HfSiON and Al2O3 layers were deposited by sputtering-deposition (SD) and atomic layer deposition (ALD) techniques. The maximum output current for SD-HfSiON/ALD-Al2O3 was 36 mA mm−1, and for ALD-Al2O3, it was 31 mA mm−1. We reported that the hysteresis shift voltage of the bilayer dielectric MOSFET was one fourth of the single dielectric layer MOSFET. The leakage current density of SD-HfSiON/ALD-Al2O3 was one order of magnitude lower than the single layer dielectric. We also determined the dielectric constants of HfSiON/Al2O3 and Al2O3 dielectrics based on capacitance–voltage characteristics. The values of VTH, on/off ratio, subthreshold swing, and low field mobility for the bilayer dielectric MOSFET were evaluated to be 4.5 V, 105, 296 mV/decade, and 154 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively.
Ultrafast dynamics of hole self-localization in
β
-Ga2O3
Authors: Marcinkevičius Saulius , Speck James S.
Published: March 2020

Hole self-localization into polaron states is a phenomenon characteristic of many wide bandgap compounds including transparent semiconducting oxide β-Ga2O3. While this effect has been recognized for some time, its dynamics remained elusive, and self-localization has often been considered instantaneous. In this work, using the two-color ultrafast pump–probe technique, we have measured the hole self-localization time in β-Ga2O3. At room temperature, this time has been found to be 0.5 ps increasing to 1.1 ps at 10 K. In terms of the configuration coordinate diagram, at room temperature, tunneling and thermal activation contribute to the process with similar weights. The hole self-trapping coefficient is estimated to be 6.4 × 10−8 cm3/s.
Chemo-mechanical coupling effect on bidirectional diffusion process during oxidation
Authors: Li Yan , Yue Mengkun , Zhang Jinsong , Tang Yunlong , Dong Xuelin , Fang Xufei , Jiang Jinsong , Lu Jianfeng , Feng Xue
Published: March 2020

The chemo-mechanical coupling effect has been widely investigated due to its important impact on many areas, such as Li-ion batteries, biomechanical engineering, hydrogen embrittlement, etc. Meanwhile, the chemo-mechanical coupling effect on the high temperature oxidation process is drawing increasing attention. During oxidation, stress can be induced in the oxide film and will in turn influence the diffusion process and oxidation kinetics. Understanding the coupling effect between stress and oxidation helps to illuminate the mechanism of material degradation and failure. In this work, a concise physical model is developed for oxidation kinetics at elevated temperatures considering the diffusion-stress coupling effect, where both the inward and outward diffusion are considered. The model prediction shows an excellent agreement with the experimental observation. Based on this physical model, we also proposed a parameter to characterize the effects of cation/anion diffusion as well as a phase diagram to describe the universal diffusion–oxidation growth process.
Cell phone and technology use by octogenarians
Authors: Atlas Astrid , Muru-Lanning Marama , Moyes Simon , Kerse Ngaire , Jatrana Santosh
Published: March 2020

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTIONMany countries, including New Zealand, have an aging population and new technologies such as cell phones may be useful for older people.
AIMTo examine cell phone and technology use by octogenarians.
METHODSTe Puawaitanga O Nga Tapuwae Kia Ora Tonu- Life and Living in Advanced Age: A Cohort Study In New Zealand (LILACs NZ) cohort study data of Māori (aged 80–90 years, 11-year age band) and non-Māori (aged 85 years, 1-year age band) followed for 3 years was used to describe the prevalence among study participants of the use of the internet, cell phones and watching pay-per-view television. Association of these activities with living arrangement, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive respiratory disease and participants’ cognition were examined.
RESULTSTechnology use was relatively low among study octogenarians. Fewer Māori used cell phones and the internet (16% and 6%) than non-Māori (30% and 19%). Māori participants supported only by a pension were less likely to use cell phones than Māori with more income. More men watched pay-per-view television (e.g. SKY) than women. Living alone and having chronic lung disease were associated with not watching pay-per-view television. Participants who used the internet had higher cognition scores than others. Non-Māori women were less likely to watch pay-per-view television and non-Māori on a pension only were less likely to watch pay-per-view television than people on a higher income. Participants who lived alone were less likely to watch pay-per-view.
CONCLUSIONRelatively low use of technology may limit potential for health technology innovation for people of advanced age. Socioeconomic and ethnic disparities will amplify this.
Seed size an important factor for the germination response of legume seeds subjected to simulated post-fire soil temperatures
Authors: Hill Sarah J. , Auld Tony D.
Published: March 2020

Potential impacts of soil temperatures in a post-fire environment were examined for seeds of legume species with a physical seed dormancy typically found in the eucalypt communities in eastern Australia. Soil temperatures in a post-fire environment may be elevated owing to increased solar radiation and this may influence germination of species with soil-stored seed banks. Seeds were heated at 50, 60 or 70°C, with one unheated control, for 3h per day for 5 days to simulate soil temperatures where canopy gaps existed. More germination of small-seeded species (<12.6mg) occurred owing to changes in simulated soil temperatures than large-seeded species (>14.0mg). Temperatures up to 70°C significantly increased the germination of species with relatively small-sized seeds than large-seeded species (>70°C). This study demonstrated that small-seeded species are able to germinate across a range of temperatures (50–70°C) and can have dormancy broken either during the passage of a fire, or after fire from increased solar radiation, potentially resulting in the decline of the post-fire residual soil seed bank. In contrast, post-fire germination of large-seeded species may be dependent solely on the degree of soil heating during the passage of fire and the species may have a relatively stable residual soil seed bank thereafter.
Influence of wildfire severity on geomorphic features and riparian vegetation of forested streams of the Sierra Nevada, California, USA
Authors: Jackson Breeanne K. , Sullivan S. Mažeika P.
Published: March 2020

Fires are a common feature of many landscapes, with numerous and complex ecological consequences. In stream ecosystems, fire can strongly influence fluvial geomorphic characteristics and riparian vegetation, which are structural components of stream–riparian ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem function. However, the effects of fire severity on stream–riparian ecosystems in California’s Sierra Nevada region (USA) are not well described, yet critical for effectively informing fire management and policy. At 12 stream reaches paired by fire severity (one high-severity burned, one low-severity burned), no significant differences were found in riparian plant community cover and composition or stream geomorphic characteristics 2–15 years following wildfire. In addition, minimal changes in riparian vegetation and stream geomorphic properties were observed in the first summer following the extensive and severe Rim Fire. However, an upstream-to-downstream influence of multiple fire occurrences was observed over the previous 81 years within each catchment on stream geomorphic metrics, including sediment size, embeddedness and channel geometry, at our study reaches. The inconsistent effects of wildfire on stream–riparian vegetation and geomorphic characteristics over space and time may be related to time since fire and precipitation.
How Learner Corpus Research can inform language learning and teaching
Authors: Schweinberger Martin
Published: March 2020

This study aims to exemplify how language teaching can benefit from learner corpus research (LCR). To this end, this study determines how L1 and L2 English speakers with diverse L1 backgrounds differ with respect to adjective amplification, based on theInternational Corpus of Learner English(ICLE) and theLouvain Corpus of Native English Essays(LOCNESS). The study confirms trends reported in previous research, in that L1 speakers amplify adjectives more frequently than L2 English speakers. In addition, the analysis shows that L1 and L2 English speakers differ substantially with respect to the collocational profiles of specific amplifier types and with respect to awareness of genre-specific constraints on amplifier use, and that even advanced L2 speakers tend to be unaware of stylistic constraints on adjective amplification because they model their academic output based on patterns generalized from informal conversation. These findings are useful for language teaching in that the data can be used to target L1-specific difficulties experienced by L2 English speakers.