bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental quantum network coding
Authors: Lu He , Li Zheng-Da , Yin Xu-Fei , Zhang Rui , Fang Xiao-Xu , Li Li , Liu Nai-Le , Xu Feihu , Chen Yu-Ao , Pan Jian-Wei
Published: October 2019

Distributing quantum state and entanglement between distant nodes is a crucial task in distributed quantum information processing on large-scale quantum networks. Quantum network coding provides an alternative solution for quantum-state distribution, especially when the bottleneck problems must be considered and high communication speed is required. Here, we report the first experimental realization of quantum network coding on the butterfly network. With the help of prior entanglements shared between senders, two quantum states can be transmitted perfectly through the butterfly network. We demonstrate this protocol by employing eight photons generated via spontaneous parametric downconversion. We observe cross-transmission of single-photon states with an average fidelity of 0.9685 ± 0.0013, and that of two-photon entanglement with an average fidelity of 0.9611 ± 0.0061, both of which are greater than the theoretical upper bounds without prior entanglement.
On the importance of field driven single particle processes in short pulse absorption of clusters
Authors: Sarkar Soubhik , Gopal R. , Anand M. , Kumar M. Praveen , Krishnamurthy M.
Published: October 2019

Nano-clusters are acclaimed to be very efficient absorbers of intense femto second light due to dominant collective mechanisms. Enhanced near 100% absorption due to collective linear plasma resonance compared to a small fraction of absorption by unclustered gas was an important drive in nano-plasma studies. Contrary to such perception, we show that if the pulse duration is (<100 fs), absorption is same irrespective of whether the systems are condensed to large clusters or not. So long as there are same number of similar ionizable systems in the focal volume, absorption is the same and such absorption can be accounted for by single particle response to the field and collisional ionization of atoms. Short pulse absorption by the single particle response can be comparable to the linear plasma resonance absorption for smaller clusters.
eVIDENCE: a practical variant filtering for low-frequency variants detection in cell-free DNA
Authors: Mizuno Kei , Akamatsu Shusuke , Sumiyoshi Takayuki , Wong Jing Hao , Fujita Masashi , Maejima Kazuaki , Nakano Kaoru , Ono Atushi , Aikata Hiroshi , Ueno Masaki , Hayami Shinya , Yamaue Hiroki , Chayama Kazuaki , Inoue Takahiro , Ogawa Osamu , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Fujimoto Akihiro
Published: October 2019

Plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing plays an increasingly important role in precision medicine for cancer. However, circulating cell-free tumor DNA (ctDNA) is highly diluted by cfDNA from non-cancer cells, complicating ctDNA detection and analysis. To identify low-frequency variants, we developed a program, eVIDENCE, which is a workflow for filtering candidate variants detected by using the ThruPLEX tag-seq (Takara Bio), a commercially-available molecular barcoding kit. We analyzed 27 cfDNA samples from hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Sequencing libraries were constructed and hybridized to our custom panel targeting about 80 genes. An initial variant calling identified 36,500 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and 9,300 insertions and deletions (indels) across the 27 samples, but the number was much greater than expected when compared with previous cancer genome studies. eVIDENCE was applied to the candidate variants and finally 70 SNVs and 7 indels remained. Of the 77 variants, 49 (63.6%) showed VAF of < 1% (0.20–0.98%). Twenty-five variants were selected in an unbiased manner and all were successfully validated, suggesting that eVIDENCE can identify variants with VAF of ≥ 0.2%. Additionally, this study is the first to detect hepatitis B virus integration sites and genomic rearrangements in the TERT region from cfDNA of HCC patients. We consider that our method can be applied in the examination of cfDNA from other types of malignancies using specific custom gene panels and will contribute to comprehensive ctDNA analysis.
Bioimaging structural signatures of the oomycete pathogen Sclerospora graminicola in pearl millet using different microscopic techniques
Authors: Shetty Hunthrike Shekar , Suryanarayan Sharada Mysore , Jogaiah Sudisha , Janakirama Aditya Rao Shimoga , Hansen Michael , Jørgensen Hans Jørgen Lyngs , Tran Lam-Son Phan
Published: October 2019

In this case study, the mycelium growth of Sclerospora graminicola in the infected tissues of pearl millet and the process of sporulation and liberation of sporangia and zoospores were observed using four different microscopic techniques. The cotton blue-stained samples observed under light microscope revealed the formation of zoospores with germ tubes, appressoria and initiation of haustorium into the host cells, while the environmental scanning electron microscopy showed the rapid emergence of sporangiophores with dispersed sporangia around the stomata. For fluorescence microscopy, the infected leaf samples were stained with Fluorescent Brightener 28 and Calcofluor White, which react with β-glucans present in the mycelial walls, sporangiophores and sporangia. Calcoflour White was found to be the most suitable for studying the structural morphology of the pathogen. Therefore, samples observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were pre-treated with Calcofluor White, as well as with Syto-13 that can stain the cell nuclei. Among the four microscopic techniques, CLSM is ideal for observing live host-pathogen interaction and studying the developmental processes of the pathogen in the host tissues. The use of different microscopic bioimaging techniques to study pathogenesis will enhance our understanding of the morphological features and development of the infectious propagules in the host.
Mitotic granule cell precursors undergo highly dynamic morphological transitions throughout the external germinal layer of the chick cerebellum
Authors: Hanzel Michalina , Rook Victoria , Wingate Richard J. T.
Published: October 2019

The developing cerebellum of amniotes is characterised by a unique, transient, secondary proliferation zone: the external germinal layer (EGL). The EGL is comprised solely of granule cell precursors, whose progeny migrate inwardly to form the internal granule cell layer. While a range of cell morphologies in the EGL has long been known, how they reflect the cells’ differentiation status has previously only been inferred. Observations have suggested a deterministic maturation from outer to inner EGL that we wished to test experimentally. To do this, we electroporated granule cell precursors in chick with plasmids encoding fluorescent proteins and probed labelled cells with markers of both proliferation (phosphohistone H3) and differentiation (Axonin1/TAG1 and NeuroD1). We show that granule cell precursors can display a range of complex forms throughout the EGL while mitotically active. Overexpression of full length NeuroD1 within granule cell precursors does not abolish proliferation, but biases granule cells towards precocious differentiation, alters their migration path and results in a smaller and less foliated cerebellum. Our results show that granule cells show a greater flexibility in differentiation than previously assumed. We speculate that this allows the EGL to regulate its proliferative activity in response to overall patterns of cerebellar growth.
Eating Style and the Frequency, Size and Timing of Eating Occasions: A cross-sectional analysis using 7-day weighed dietary records
Authors: Magklis Emmanouil , Howe Laura Diane , Johnson Laura
Published: October 2019

The tendencies to overeat in response to negative emotions (emotional eating) and environmental cues (external eating) have both been associated with BMI. However, it is unclear how they are expressed at the eating architecture level, for example, respecting frequency, timing and size of eating occasions, which could comprise ‘downstream’ specific behavioural intervention targets. In our analyses of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2000–2001, a 1-unit higher emotional eating score was associated with meals containing approximately 15 (3, 26) fewer kcals per occasion, consuming 1.4 (0.5, 2.3) more snacks per week and snacking over a 35- (16, 53) minute longer period a day. A 1-unit higher external eating score was associated with snacking over a 24- (1, 46) minute shorter period a day. Associations were independent of BMI and other potential confounders. The distinct pattern of eating architecture associated with emotional eating, suggests specific approaches to intervention, such as the number, timing and caloric content of snacks, could be considered further in experimental studies for their potential to prevent weight gain in people with a higher emotional eating tendency. Longitudinal studies and better measurement are also needed to strengthen causal inference in terms of the downstream effects of eating styles.
Retrieving magma composition from TIR spectra: implications for terrestrial planets investigations
Authors: Pisello Alessandro , Vetere Francesco P. , Bisolfati Matteo , Maturilli Alessandro , Morgavi Daniele , Pauselli Cristina , Iezzi Gianluca , Lustrino Michele , Perugini Diego
Published: October 2019

Emissivity and reflectance spectra have been investigated on two series of silicate glasses, having compositions belonging to alkaline and subalkaline series, covering the most common terrestrial igneous rocks. Glasses were synthesized starting from natural end-members outcropping at Vulcano Island (Aeolian Islands, Italy) and on Snake River Plain (USA). Results show that the shift of the spectra, by taking Christiansen feature (CF) as a reference point, is correlated with SiO2content, the SCFM factor and/or the degree of polymerization state via the NBO/T and temperature. The more evolved is the composition, the more polymerized the structure, the shorter the wavelength at which CF is observable. CF shift is also dependent on temperature. The shape of the spectra discriminates alkaline character, and it is related to the evolution of Qn structural units. Vulcano alkaline series show larger amount of Q4and Q3species even for mafic samples compared to the subalkaline Snake River Plain series. Our results provide new and robust insights for the geochemical characterization of volcanic rocks by remote sensing, with the outlook to infer origin of magmas both on Earth as well as on terrestrial planets or rocky bodies, from emissivity and reflectance spectra.
DSS-induced colitis produces inflammation-induced bone loss while irisin treatment mitigates the inflammatory state in both gut and bone
Authors: Metzger Corinne E. , Narayanan S. Anand , Elizondo Jon P. , Carter Anne Michal , Zawieja David C. , Hogan Harry A. , Bloomfield Susan A.
Published: October 2019

Chronic pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) leads to lack of bone accrual, bone loss, and increased fractures. Presently there is no cure, and many IBD treatments incur negative side effects. We previously discovered treatment with exogenous irisin resolved inflammatory changes in the colon, gut lymphatics, and bone in a mild IBD rodent model. Here we assess irisin treatment in severe IBD induced via dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Male Sprague Dawley rats (2-mo-old) were untreated (Con) or given 2% DSS in drinking water. In week two, half of each group (Con + Ir and DSS + Ir) received injections of recombinant irisin (i.p., 2x/wk). After 4 weeks, gut inflammation was associated with declines in bone mineral density and cancellous bone volume. Furthermore, elevated osteocyte TNF-α, interleukin-6, RANKL, OPG, and sclerostin corresponded with higher osteoclast surfaces and lower bone formation rate in DSS animals as well as lower ultimate load. While irisin treatment improved colon inflammation, there were no improvements in bone density or bone mechanical properties; however, irisin elevated bone formation rate, decreased osteoclast surfaces, and reduced osteocyte pro-inflammatory factors. These data highlight the negative impact of chronic gut inflammation on bone as well as the therapeutic potential of irisin as an anti-inflammatory treatment.
Pregabalin: Potential for Addiction and a Possible Glutamatergic Mechanism
Authors: Althobaiti Yusuf S. , Almalki Atiah , Alsaab Hashem , Alsanie Walaa , Gaber Ahmed , Alhadidi Qasim , Hardy Ana Maria Gregio , Nasr Abdulrahman , Alzahrani Omar , Stary Creed M. , Shah Zahoor A.
Published: October 2019

Drug addiction remains a prevalent and fatal disease worldwide that carries significant social and economic impacts. Recent reports suggest illicit pregabalin (Lyrica) use may be increasing among youth, however the addictive potential of pregabalin has not been well established. Drug seeking behavior and chronic drug use are associated with deficits in glutamate clearance and activation of postsynaptic glutamatergic receptors. In the current study, we investigated the abuse potential of pregabalin using conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Different doses of pregabalin (30, 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg) were used to assess the seeking behavior in mice. Glutamate homeostasis is maintained by glutamate transporter type-1 (GLT-1), which plays a vital role in clearing the released glutamate from synapses and drug seeking behavior. Therefore, we investigated the role of glutamate in pregabalin-seeking behavior with ceftriaxone (CEF), a potent GLT-1 upregulator. Mice treated with pregabalin 60 and 90 mg/kg doses demonstrated drug seeking-like behavior, which was significantly blocked by CEF pretreatment. These results suggest that pregabalin-induced CPP was successfully modulated by CEF which could serve as a lead compound for developing treatment for pregabalin abuse.
A Consumer Neuroscience Study of Conscious and Subconscious Destination Preference
Authors: Zoëga Ramsøy Thomas , Michael Noela , Michael Ian
Published: October 2019

In studying consumer behaviors, the inclusion of neuroscience tools and methods is improving our understanding of preference formation and choice. But such responses are mostly related to the consumption of goods and services that meet an immediate need. Tourism represents a consumer behavior that is related to a more complex decision-making process, involving a stronger relationship with a future self, and choices typically being of a higher level of involvement and of a transformational type. The aim of this study was to test whether direct emotional and cognitive responses to travel destination would be indicative of subsequent stated destination preference. Participants were shown images and videos from multiple travel destinations while being monitored using eye-tracking and electroencephalography (EEG) brain monitoring. The EEG responses to each image and video were further calculated into neurometric scores of emotional (frontal asymmetry and arousal) and cognitive load metrics. Our results show that arousal and cognitive load were significantly related to subsequent stated travel preferences, accounting for about 20% of the variation in preference. Still, results also suggested that subconscious emotional and cognitive responses are not identical to subjective travel preference, suggesting that other mechanisms may be at play in forming conscious, stated preference. This study both supports the idea that destination preferences can be studied using consumer neuroscience and brings further insights into the mechanisms at stake during such choices.
Identification of key protein-coding genes and lncRNAs in spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis
Authors: Jiang Nan , Zhang Xinzhuo , He Yancheng , Luo Bo , He Chengcheng , Liang Yu , Zeng Jingyuan , Li Wei , Xian Yujun , Zheng Xiaoli
Published: October 2019

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are the most abundant cells of the innate immune system in humans, and spontaneous PMN apoptosis plays crucial roles in maintaining neutrophil homeostasis and resolving inflammation. However, the detailed mechanisms of spontaneous PMN apoptosis remain to be elucidated. By analysis of the public microarray dataset GSE37416, we identified a total of 3050 mRNAs and 220 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) specifically expressed during PMN apoptosis in a time-dependent manner. By short time-series expression miner (STEM) analysis, Gene Ontology analysis, and lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network analyses, we identified some key molecules specifically related to PMN apoptosis. STEM analysis identified 12 gene profiles with statistically significance, including 2 associated with apoptosis. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of the genes from 2 profiles and lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network analysis identified a 12-gene hub (including NFκB1 and BIRC3) associated with apoptosis, as well as 2 highly correlated lncRNAs (THAP9-AS1, and AL021707.6). We experimentally examined the expression profiles of two mRNA (NFκB1 and BIRC3) and two lncRNAs (THAP9-AS1 andAL021707.6) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to confirm their time-dependent expressions. These data altogether demonstrated that these genes are involved in the regulation of spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis and the corresponding gene products could also serve as potential key regulatory molecules for PMN apoptosis and/or therapeutic targets for over-reactive inflammatory response caused by the abnormality in PMN apoptosis.
Tracking genome-editing and associated molecular perturbations by SWATH mass spectrometry
Authors: Lin Qifeng , Low Larry W. L. , Lau Adam , Chua Esther W. L. , Matsuoka Yuji , Lian Yilong , Monteiro Antónia , Tate Stephen , Gunaratne Jayantha , Carney Tom J.
Published: October 2019

Advances in gene editing now allow reverse genetics to be applied to a broad range of biological systems. Ultimately, any modification to coding sequences requires confirmation at the protein level, although immunoblotting is often hampered by antibody quality or availability especially in non-model species. Sequential Window Acquisition of All Theoretical Spectra (SWATH), a mass spectrometry (MS) technology with exceptional quantitative reproducibility and accuracy, offers an ideal alternative for protein-based confirmation. Here, using genome edits in mouse, zebrafish and Bicyclus anynana butterflies produced using either homologous recombination or targeted nucleases, we demonstrate absence of the targeted proteins using SWATH, thus confirming successful editing. We show that SWATH is a robust antibody-independent alternative for monitoring gene editing at the protein level and broadly applicable across diverse organisms and targeted genome manipulation techniques. Moreover, SWATH concomitantly defines the global proteome response in the edited organism, which may provide pertinent biological insights.
Fast and stable vapochromic response induced through nanocrystal formation of a luminescent platinum(II) complex on periodic mesoporous organosilica
Authors: Matsukawa Hiroki , Yoshida Masaki , Tsunenari Takahiro , Nozawa Shunsuke , Sato-Tomita Ayana , Maegawa Yoshifumi , Inagaki Shinji , Kobayashi Atsushi , Kato Masako
Published: October 2019

A hybrid vapoluminescent system exhibiting fast and repeatable response was constructed using periodic mesoporous organosilica with bipyridine moieties (BPy-PMO) and a Pt(II) complex bearing a potentially luminescent 2-phenylpyridinato (ppy) ligand. An intense red luminescence appeared when the Pt(II)-complex immobilised BPy-PMO was exposed to methanol vapour and disappeared on exposure to pyridine vapour. The ON-OFF vapochromic behaviour occurred repeatedly in a methanol/pyridine/heating cycle. Interestingly, a rapid response was achieved in the second cycle and cycles thereafter. Scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM/TEM), absorption and emission, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, and powder X-ray diffraction indicated that methanol vapour induced Si-C cleavage and thus liberated [Pt(ppy)(bpy)]Cl (bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine) from the BPy-PMO framework. Furthermore, the self-assembling properties of the Pt(II) complex resulted in the formation of highly luminescent micro/nanocrystals that were homogeneously dispersed on the porous support. The unique vapoluminescence triggered by the unprecedented protodesilylation on exposure to protic solvent vapour at room temperature is attributable to BPy-PMO being a giant ligand and an effective vapour condenser. Consequently, this hybrid system presents a new strategy for developing sensors using bulk powdery materials.
Mutations in Glucan, Water Dikinase Affect Starch Degradation and Gametophore Development in the Moss Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Mdodana Ntombizanele T. , Jewell Jonathan F. , Phiri Ethel E. , Smith Marthinus L. , Oberlander Kenneth , Mahmoodi Saire , Kossmann Jens , Lloyd James R.
Published: October 2019

The role of starch degradation in non-vascular plants is poorly understood. To expand our knowledge of this area, we have studied this process in Physcomitrella patens. This has been achieved through examination of the step known to initiate starch degradation in angiosperms, glucan phosphorylation, catalysed by glucan, water dikinase (GWD) enzymes. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that GWD isoforms can be divided into two clades, one of which contains GWD1/GWD2 and the other GWD3 isoforms. These clades split at a very early stage within plant evolution, as distinct sequences that cluster within each were identified in all major plant lineages. Of the five genes we identified within the Physcomitrella genome that encode GWD-like enzymes, two group within the GWD1/GWD2 clade and the others within the GWD3 clade. Proteins encoded by both loci in the GWD1/GWD2 clade, named PpGWDa and PpGWDb, are localised in plastids. Mutations of either PpGWDa or PpGWDb reduce starch phosphate abundance, however, a mutation at the PpGWDa locus had a much greater influence than one at PpGWDb. Only mutations affecting PpGWDa inhibited starch degradation. Mutants lacking this enzyme also failed to develop gametophores, a phenotype that could be chemically complemented using glucose supplementation within the growth medium.
A new class of nonreciprocal spin waves on the edges of 2D antiferromagnetic honeycomb nanoribbons
Authors: Ghader D. , Khater A.
Published: October 2019

Antiferromagnetic two-dimensional (2D) materials are currently under intensive theoretical and experimental investigations in view of their potential applications in antiferromagnet-based magnonic and spintronic devices. Recent experimental studies revealed the importance of magnetic anisotropy and of Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions (DMI) on the ordered ground state and the magnetic excitations in these materials. In this work we present a robust classical field theory approach to study the effects of anisotropy and the DMI on the edge and bulk spin waves in 2D antiferromagnetic nanoribbons. We predict the existence of a new class of nonreciprocal edge spin waves, characterized by opposite polarizations in counter-propagation. These novel edge spin waves are induced by the DMI and are fundamentally different from conventional nonreciprocal spin waves for which the polarization is independent of the propagation direction. We further analyze the effects of the edge structures on the magnetic excitations for these systems. In particular, we show that anisotropic bearded edge nanoribbons act as topologically trivial magnetic insulators with potentially interesting applications in magnonics. Our results constitute an important finding for current efforts seeking to establish unconventional magnonic devices utilizing spin wave polarization.
Visual DNA diagnosis of Tomato yellow leaf curl virus with integrated recombinase polymerase amplification and a gold-nanoparticle probe
Authors: Wang Tzu-Ming , Yang Jing-Tang
Published: October 2019

A visual DNA diagnosis with a rapid and simple procedure has been developed on integrating recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and a gold nanoparticle (AuNP) probe. The entire process is implemented in only one tube with no precision instrument and requires in total 20 min to amplify a DNA fragment with RPA and to discriminate a DNA fragment with an AuNP probe. The result in various colors is directly observable with the naked eye. Through discovering a small DNA fragment of Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), this system can detect one copy per microlitre of virus in a pure isolate of extracted DNA and can readily identify an infected plant with a healthy appearance. This system hence provides a highly sensitive and stable DNA diagnosis. This visual method has a potential for disease diagnosis and prognostication in the field based on advantages of simplicity, high speed, portability and sensitivity.
Impact of Biocompatible Nanosilica on Green Stabilization of Subgrade Soil
Authors: Buazar Foad
Published: October 2019

This study reports the synthesis and potential application of biocompatible silica nanoparticles for subgrade soil stabilization. Nanosilica preparation as a major component from wheat husk ash is systematically studied and confirmed by FTIR, ICP, XRD, and TEM analyses. The produced biogenic nanosilica showed an amorphous structure with an average size of 20 nm. Upon loading various green nanosilica contents, our results show an improvement in the key parameters including Atterberg’s limits, maximum dry density, optimum water content, and shear strength of treated soil. Under optimal loading condition, the nanosilica-mediated soil analyses reveal a significant increase in the plastic and liquid limits by factors of 1.60 and 1.24 whereas plasticity index is declined by a factor of 0.78 rather than untreated soil specimen. The treated soil demonstrates a superior increase in the angle of internal friction, cohesion, shear strength, and maximum dry unit weight by factors of 2.17, 3.07, 2.21 and 1.5, respectively. The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) strength of nanosilica-cured soil presents a substantial increase by a factor of 5.83 higher than the corresponding original subgrade soil. We obtained the maximum increase in strength parameters of modified soil at the optimum biogenic nanosilica content of 1.5%.
A non-calorimetric approach for investigating the moisture-induced ageing of a pyrotechnic delay material using spectroscopies
Authors: Ryu Ji-Hoon , Yang Jun-Ho , Yoh Jack J.
Published: October 2019

The degradation of thermal properties due to ageing such as burning rate and exothermic heat release are unsolved issues faced during a long-term storage of the pyrotechnic substances. Accordingly, we employed various non-calorimetric methods to investigate the thermal performance of pyrotechnic delay, which is exposed to various moisture-rich conditions at extended durations. The chemical and physical changes in the compositions of a pyrotechnic delay comprised of metal fuel (Zr-Ni alloy) and oxidants (KClO4, BaCrO4) are analysed for four different relative humidity levels using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. The calculations using the NASA Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA) software indicated that the heat of reaction for the components stored under the moisture-rich conditions is reduced by more than 50%. Unlike the conventional calorimetric analysis, the present non-calorimetric approach provided the compositional changes as well as the cause and effect of the relevant ageing process of pyrotechnic delay.
Prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and their association with sexual practices and substance use among 2238 MSM in Lebanon
Authors: Assi Ayman , Abu Zaki Sara , Ghosn Jade , Kinge Nizar , Naous Jihane , Ghanem Antoine , Abou Abbas Diana , Bakouny Ziad , Azzi Georges , Tomb Roland
Published: October 2019

UNAIDS report documents 95% increase in new HIV infections among key populations in Eastern Europe and Middle East and North Africa region. Data on HIV and STIs among MSM in Lebanon is still scarce. Therefore, the aim was to assess prevalence of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Lebanon and associations with sexual practices and substance-use. 2238 MSM attended a sexual health clinic in Lebanon between 2015–2018. Demographics, substance-use and sexual practices were collected. Attendees tested for HIV and other STIs. HIV infection was diagnosed in 5.6% of the sample. Only 19% received sexual health education from reliable sources (school/university/healthcare workers), 78% reported having multiple partners in the past three months (2–5 partners: 58%, 6+: 20%) and 67% reported inconsistent condom-use. Moreover, 40% of HIV + cases were returning attendees who already received information about condom-use. Additionally, having only a school level education (11%) increases the odds of having inconsistent condom-use with casual partners (adj.OR:1.9, p < 0.001). The results reflect the urgent need for: (1) accurate and comprehensive sexual health and harm reduction education and promotion in Lebanon; (2) making pre-exposure prophylaxis available for free to key populations to contain the epidemics at an early stage.
Surface modification of multilayer FePS3 by Ga ion irradiation
Authors: Xu Heng , Wang ShangWu , Ouyang JianMing , He Xin , Chen Hao , Li YuBo , Liu Yun , Chen Rui , Yang JunBo
Published: October 2019

In order to investigate the modification of the surface structure of FePS3 via Ga+ ion irradiation, we study the effect of thickness and Raman spectrum of multilayer FePS3 irradiated for 0 μs, 30 μs, and 40 μs, respectively. The results demonstrate that the intensity ratio of characteristic Raman peaks are obviously related to the thickness of FePS3. After Ga+ ion irradiation, the FePS3 sample gradually became thinner and the Eu peak and Eg(v11) peak in the Raman spectrum disappeared and the peak intensity ratio of A1g(v2) with respect to A1g(v1) weakened. This trend becomes more apparent while increasing irradiation time. The phenomenon is attributed to the damage of bipyramid structure of [P2S6]4− units and the cleavage of the P-P bands and the P-S bands during Ga+ ion irradiation. The results are of great significance for improving the two-dimensional characteristics of FePS3 by Ga+ ion beam, including structural and optical properties, which pave the way of surface engineering to improve the performance of various two-dimensional layered materials via ion beam irradiation.
Author Correction: Effects of aging on timing of hibernation and reproduction
Authors: Bieber Claudia , Turbill Christopher , Ruf Thomas
Published: October 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: FHL2 mediates podocyte Rac1 activation and foot process effacement in hypertensive nephropathy
Authors: Li Szu-Yuan , Chu Pao-Hsien , Huang Po-Hsun , Hsieh Tsung-Han , Susztak Katalin , Tarng Der-Cherng
Published: October 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Effects of sea salt aerosols on precipitation and upper troposphere/lower stratosphere water vapour in tropical cyclone systems
Authors: Jiang Baolin , Wang Dongdong , Shen Xiaodian , Chen Junwen , Lin Wenshi
Published: October 2019

The effects of sea salt aerosols (SSA) on cloud microphysical processes, precipitation, and upper troposphere/lower stratosphere water vapour in tropical cyclones were studied with the Weather Research and Forecasting with Chemistry model. Two numerical experiments were conducted: a control experiment (CTL) and an experiment with sea salt emission intensity one-tenth of that in the CTL experiment (CLEAN). Results show increased SSA concentrations, increased production rates of auto-conversion of cloud water to form rain, and increased accretion of cloud water by rain in the CTL experiment, leading to an increase in the precipitation amount. The peak value of precipitation is ~17 mm/h in the CTL experiment and ~13 mm/h in the CLEAN experiment, a difference of ~30%. The CTL experiment has more intense vertical movement in the eyewall and thus more water vapour is transported to the upper atmosphere, which promotes cloud ice deposition. This process consumes more water vapour, which makes the CTL experiment drier in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere layer (altitude above 17 km). At 18–20 km altitude, the domain-averaged water vapour mixing ratio of the CTL experiment is ~0.02 ppmv lower than that of the CLEAN experiment. SSA have the effect of strengthening tropical cyclones and increasing precipitation.
Dual Optical Signal-based Intraocular Pressure-sensing Principle Using Pressure-sensitive Mechanoluminescent ZnS:Cu/PDMS Soft Composite
Authors: Kim Yooil , Roy Sunanda , Jung Gwang-Yong , Oh Jung-Sik , Kim Gi-Woo
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a novel principle for intraocular pressure (IOP)-sensing (monitoring) based on a pressure-sensitive soft composite in which a dual optical signal is produced in response to impulsive pressure input. For the initial assessment of the new IOP sensing principle, a human eye is modeled as the spherically shaped shell structure filled with the pressurized fluid, including cornea, sclera, lens and zonular fiber, and a fluid–structure interaction (FSI) analysis was performed to determine the correlation between the internal pressure and deformation (i.e., strain) rate of the spherical shell structure filled with fluid by formulating the finite element model. The FSI analysis results for human eye model are experimentally validated using a proof-of-conceptual experimental model consisting of a pressurized spherical shell structure filled with fluid and a simple air-puff actuation system. In this study, a mechanoluminescent ZnS:Cu- polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based soft composite is fabricated and used to generate the dual optical signal because mechanically driven ZnS:Cu/PDMS soft composite can emit strong luminescence, suitable for soft sensor applications. Similar to the corneal behavior of the human eye, inward and outward deformations occur on the soft composite attached to the spherical shell structure in response to air puffing, resulting in a dual optical signal in the mechnoluminescence (ML) soft composite.
The impact of RHDV-K5 on rabbit populations in Australia: an evaluation of citizen science surveys to monitor rabbit abundance
Authors: Cox Tarnya E. , Ramsey David S. L. , Sawyers Emma , Campbell Susan , Matthews John , Elsworth Peter
Published: October 2019

The increasing popularity of citizen science in ecological research has created opportunities for data collection from large teams of observers that are widely dispersed. We established a citizen science program to complement the release of a new variant of the rabbit biological control agent, rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), known colloquially as K5, across Australia. We evaluated the impact of K5 on the national rabbit population and compared citizen science and professionally-collected spotlight count data. Of the citizen science sites (n = 219), 93% indicated a decrease in rabbit abundance following the release of K5. The overall finite monthly growth rate in rabbit abundance was estimated as 0.66 (95%CI, 0.26, 1.03), averaging a monthly reduction of 34% at the citizen science sites one month after the release. No such declines were observed at the professionally monitored sites (n = 22). The citizen science data submissions may have been unconsciously biased or the number of professional sites may have been insufficient to detect a change. Citizen science participation also declined by 56% over the post-release period. Future programs should ensure the use of blinded trials to check for unconscious bias and consider how incentives and/or the good will of the participants can be maintained throughout the program.
Polyphosphate, the physiological metabolic fuel for corneal cells: a potential biomaterial for ocular surface repair
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Gericke Adrian , Ackermann Maximilian , Wang Shunfeng , Neufurth Meik , Schröder Heinz C. , Pfeiffer Norbert , Müller Werner E. G.
Published: October 2019

Polyphosphate, a natural inorganic polymer that acts as a reservoir for metabolic fuel (ATP), increases the proliferation and migration potency of epithelial cells, covering the avascular cornea.
A new lysosome-targetable fluorescent probe for detection of endogenous hydrogen polysulfides in living cells and inflamed mouse model
Authors: Liang Li , Li Weiqing , Zheng Jinrong , Li Ruixi , Chen Haiyan , Yuan Zhenwei
Published: October 2019

H2Sn play significant roles in maintaining biological homeostasis in organisms. In this work, a new fluorescent probe PP-PS was designed for detecting endogenous H2Sn. The probe has good properties and was applied in living cancer cells and tissues.
Free volume, gas permeation, and proton conductivity in MIL-101-SO3H/Nafion composite membranes
Authors: Yin Chongshan , He Chunqing , Liu Qicheng , Xiong Bangyun , Zhang Xiaowei , Qian Libing , Li Jingjing , Zhou Yawei
Published: October 2019

The influence of free volume size on the gas permeability of MIL-101-SO3H/Nafion composite membranes is closely related to the size of the particular gas molecules.
Protective effects of tenuifolin isolated from Polygala tenuifolia Willd roots on neuronal apoptosis and learning and memory deficits in mice with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Lin , Jin Gui Fang , Yu He Han , Lu Xiao Hua , Zou Zhen Hua , Liang Jia Qi , Yang Hong
Published: October 2019

The roots of Polygala tenuifolia Willd have a long history of being used as a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of insomnia, forgetfulness, sorrow and depression. This research show the special function in Alzheimer's disease.
Thermal and oxidation stability of functional oleogels formed by edible wax/starch and Schisandra chinensis oil
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wu Shimin
Published: October 2019

This work was aimed at the evaluation of stability of components in oleogels and providing a quick, visual description of the relationship between the composition of an oleogel and its thermal and oxidation properties.
PTFEP–Al2O3 hybrid nanowires reducing thrombosis and biofouling
Authors: Haidar Ayman , Ali Awadelkareem A. , Veziroglu Salih , Fiutowski Jacek , Eichler Hermann , Müller Isabelle , Kiefer Karin , Faupel Franz , Bischoff Markus , Veith Michael , Aktas Oral Cenk , Abdul-Khaliq Hashim
Published: October 2019

Superhydrophobic PTFEP modified Al2O3 nanowires (NWs) reduce both platelet adhesion/activation and bacterial adherence/colonization.
Highly efficient and giant negative electrocaloric effect of a Nb and Sn co-doped lead zirconate titanate antiferroelectric film near room temperature
Authors: Zhao Quanliang , Sheng Tianyu , Pang Lei , He Guangping , Di Jiejian , Zhao Lei , Hou Zhiling , Cao Maosheng
Published: October 2019

A giant negative ECE of a PNZST film with a high electrocaloric coefficient and coefficient of performance near room temperature.
Boosting the hydrogen evolution activity of a Co–N–C electrocatalyst by codoping with Al
Authors: Zhou Xiao , Yu Haoran , Liu Yang , Kong Yong , Tao Yongxin , Qin Yong
Published: October 2019

The electrocatalytic activity of Co–N–C catalyst toward hydrogen evolution reaction can be significantly boosted by codoping with Al.
First principles calculations of the thermodynamic stability of Ba, Zr, and O vacancies in BaZrO3
Authors: Raja N. , Murali D. , Satyanarayana S. V. M. , Posselt M.
Published: October 2019

The temperature dependence of the free formation energy of Ba, Zr and O vacancies in BaZrO3 is investigated for all possible charge states and atomic reservoir conditions.
A solution-based ALD route towards (CH3NH3)(PbI3) perovskite via lead sulfide films
Authors: Koch Vanessa M. , Barr Maïssa K. S. , Büttner Pascal , Mínguez-Bacho Ignacio , Döhler Dirk , Winzer Bettina , Reinhardt Elisabeth , Segets Doris , Bachmann Julien
Published: October 2019

Lead sulfide is deposited from the salts in ‘solution ALD’ mode and converted directly to the hybrid perovskite CH3NH3PbI3.
Hierarchical nanoporous intermetallic compounds with self-grown transition-metal hydroxides as bifunctional catalysts for the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Han Li-Ping , Yao Rui-Qi , Wan Wu-Bin , Shi Hang , Wen Zi , Lang Xing-You , Jiang Qing
Published: October 2019

Transition metal (TM)-doped intermetallic compounds that are composed of a surface Pt-TM alloy with a self-grown hydroxide serve as bifunctional alkaline HER catalysts.
CNT coatings grown on the outer and inner surfaces of magnetic hollow carbon fibers with enhanced electromagnetic interference shielding performance
Authors: Wei Huawei , Zheng Wenhui , Jiang Zaixing , Huang Yudong
Published: October 2019

Attributed to the synergistic effect of CNTs, Fe3C and the 1D hollow structure, the prepared composites have excellent EMI shielding performance and are lightweight.
Synthetic GPCRs and signal transduction cascades
Authors: Mulvihill Colleen , Ellington Andrew
Published: October 2019

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large and diverse group of membrane proteins that constitute over 30% of FDA approved drug targets. Despite their importance, much remains unknown about GPCR signaling at a system's level. Efforts to engineer receptors with orthogonal components have attempted to provide tools to parse signaling and resultant phenotypes. Recent advances in synthetic biology provide opportunities to engineer receptors at scale and with additional properties that could further inform GPCR biology at a system's level, and enhance the ability to engineer complex signal transduction.
Synthetic bionanotechnology: synthetic biology finds a toehold in nanotechnology
Authors: Green Alexander A.
Published: October 2019

Enabled by its central role in the molecular networks that govern cell function, RNA has been widely used for constructing components used in biological circuits for synthetic biology. Nucleic acid nanotechnology, which exploits predictable nucleic acid interactions to implement programmable molecular systems, has seen remarkable advances in in vitro nanoscale self-assembly and molecular computation, enabling the production of complex nanostructures and DNA-based neural networks. Living cells genetically engineered to execute nucleic acid nanotechnology programs thus have outstanding potential to significantly extend the current limits of synthetic biology. This perspective discusses the recent developments and future challenges in the field of synthetic bionanotechnology. Thus far, researchers in this emerging area have implemented dozens of programmable RNA nanodevices that provide precise control over gene expression at the transcriptional and translational levels and through CRISPR/Cas effectors. Moreover, they have employed synthetic self-assembling RNA networks in engineered bacteria to carry out computations featuring up to a dozen inputs and to substantially enhance the rate of chemical synthesis. Continued advancement of the field will benefit from improved in vivo strategies for streamlining nucleic acid network synthesis and new approaches for enhancing network function. As the field matures and the complexity gap between in vitro and in vivo systems narrows, synthetic bionanotechnology promises to have diverse potential applications ranging from intracellular circuits that detect and treat disease to synthetic enzymatic pathways that efficiently produce novel drug molecules.
Promoting Counseling Skills in Audiology Clinical Supervisors: Considerations for Professional Development
Authors: Muñoz Karen , Ong Clarissa W. , Whicker John , Twohig Michael
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Clinical supervision for counseling skill development can be variable and can undermine student ability to learn patient-centered care communication. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of consultation and feedback sessions on counseling behavior, in actual clinical practice, among clinical audiology supervisors. We also collected qualitative data on participants' experiences and suggestions for improving the counseling intervention to increase counseling communication in audiology graduate training programs.

Method

We used a noncurrent multiple baseline design and staggered the counseling intervention to control for effects of concurrent events and passage of time.

Results

Two participants showed small but reliable increases in counseling behavior, whereas the 3rd participant showed bigger but less stable increases in counseling. Participants reported that brief feedback sessions were helpful; however, they also mentioned barriers to counseling, such as worries with how much time counseling could take when they have back-to-back appointments.

Conclusion

Clinical audiology supervisors were able to improve their counseling skills in real-life sessions with regular feedback. More structure may be needed to strengthen future counseling skills.
New deep coronal spectra from the 2017 total solar eclipse
Authors: Koutchmy S. , Baudin F. , Abdi Sh. , Golub L. , Sèvre F.
Published: October 2019

Context. The origin of the high temperature of the solar corona, in both the inner bright parts and the more outer parts showing flows toward the solar wind, is not understood well yet. Total eclipses permit a deep analysis of both the inner and the outer parts of the corona using the continuum white-light (W-L) radiations from electrons (K-corona), the superposed spectrum of forbidden emission lines from ions (E-corona), and the dust component with F-lines (F-corona).

Aims. By sufficiently dispersing the W-L spectrum, the Fraunhofer (F) spectrum of the dust component of the corona appears and the continuum Thomson radiation can be evaluated. The superposed emission lines of ions with different degrees of ionization are studied to allow the measurement of temperatures, non-thermal velocities, Doppler shifts, and abundances to constrain the proposed heating mechanisms and understand the origin of flows that lead to solar wind.

Methods. We describe a slit spectroscopic experiment of high spectral resolution to provide an analysis of the most typical parts of the quasi-minimum type corona observed during the total solar eclipse of Aug. 21, 2017 from Idaho, USA. Streamers, active region enhancements, and polar coronal holes (CHs) are measured well using deep spectra.

Results. Sixty spectra are obtained during the totality with a long slit, covering ±3 solar radii in the range of 510 nm to 590 nm. The K+F continuum corona is exposed well up to two solar radii. The F-corona can be measured even at the solar limb. New weak emission lines were discovered or confirmed. The rarely observed Ar X line is detected almost everywhere; the Fe XIV and Ni XIII lines are clearly detected everywhere. For the first time hot lines are also measured inside the CH regions. The radial variations of the non-thermal turbulent velocities of the lines do not show a great departure from the average values. No significantly large Doppler shifts are seen anywhere in the inner or the middle corona. The wings of the Fe XIV line show some non-Gaussianity.

Conclusions. Deep slit coronal spectra offered an opportunity for diagnosing several aspects of coronal physics during a well observed total eclipse without extended investments. The analysis of the ionic emission line profiles offers several powerful diagnostics of the coronal dynamics; the precise measurement of the F-continuum component provides insight into the ubiquitous dust corona at the solar limb.