bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unterscheiden sich Sonderpädagogikstudierende bezüglich Berufswahlmotivation und pädagogischer Vorerfahrungen von Primarstufen- und Sekundarstufenstudierenden?
Authors: Rutsch Juliane , Spinath Birgit , Rehm Markus , Vogel Markus , Dörfler Tobias
Published: January 2020

Zusammenfassung. Der vorliegende Beitrag untersucht die Berufswahlmotivation sowie die pädagogischen Vorerfahrungen bei Studierenden verschiedener Lehramtsstudiengänge. Hierzu werden drei Fragestellungen untersucht: Erstens wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob sich die Dimensionalität der Berufswahlmotivation, erfasst über den FEMOLA-Fragebogen ( Pohlmann & Möller, 2010 ), auch für Studierende verschiedener nicht-gymnasialer Lehrämter zeigt. Zweitens, ob sich Studierende nicht-gymnasialer Lehramtsstudiengänge hinsichtlich der Ausprägung der Berufswahlmotivation unterscheiden. Drittens, ob bezüglich pädagogischer Vorerfahrungen Unterschiede zwischen den Lehramtsstudiengängen vorliegen und ob diese mit Dimensionen der Berufswahlmotivation in Zusammenhang stehen. Die bisherige empirische Befundlage soll durch den Einbezug von Sonderpädagogikstudierenden um diese Personengruppe erweitert werden. Es wurden 2138 Lehramtsstudierende verteilt auf die Studiengänge der Primarstufe, Sekundarstufe I und Sonderpädagogik an Pädagogischen Hochschulen in Baden-Württemberg befragt. Die Dimensionalität des FEMOLA-Fragebogens konnte nur für vier Dimensionen bestätigt werden; Messinvarianz lag vor. Sonderpädagogikstudierende unterschieden sich bei geringen Effektstärken hinsichtlich ihrer Berufswahlmotivation von Regelschulstudierenden. Primarstufen- und Sonderpädagogikstudierende berichteten ähnliche pädagogische Vorerfahrungen, während sich die Sekundarstufenstudierenden hiervon unterschieden. Die erzielten Ergebnisse werden vor dem Hintergrund der bisherigen empirischen Befundlage diskutiert.
CoLaus: l’alimentation, la grande oubliée dans la prévention des maladies cardiovasculaires
Authors: Marques-Vidal Pedro , Waeber Gérard , Vollenweider Peter
Published: January 2020

Résumé. Une alimentation adéquate est un facteur fondamental de la prévention et de la prise en charge des maladies cardiovasculaires. Cependant, les résultats de l’étude CoLaus montrent que la prise en charge nutritionnelle des facteurs de risque ou des maladies cardiovasculaires est peu implémentée. Moins d’un cinquième des participants avec une dyslipémie suit un régime hypolipémiant, et seulement la moitié des participants avec un diabète suit un régime antidiabétique. Par ailleurs, la survenue d’un infarctus du myocarde ne se traduit pas par une amélioration de la qualité de l’alimentation.
Comment on “Retrieval of Atmospheric Fine Particulate Density Based on Merging Particle Size Distribution Measurements: Multi‐instrument Observation and Quality Control at Shouxian” by Li et al.
Authors: Peng Long , Bi Xinhui
Published: January 2020

This work raises questions about the omission of Cunningham Slip Correction Factor (Cc(D)) in geometric equivalent diameter (Dp) conversions from the electric mobility diameter (Dm) and the aerodynamic diameter (Da) in relation to the calculation of effective density (ρe) as defined by Li et al. (2018; https://doi.org/10.1029/2018JD028956). They reported that ρe could be calculated using the formula “(Da/Dm)2,” in which Cc(D) was not introduced into the conversion between two diameters involving Dm and Dp or Da and Dp. However, these conversions, which ignored Cc(D) in the transition regime, are not supported by current studies; nor did the group demonstrate their rationality. This comment shows that an error of up to 24.7% could be caused by ignoring the Cc(D) during conversions between the Dp and Dm for particles with a dynamic shape factor of 2.50 and a Dm of 550 nm; an error of 5.6% could be caused by ignoring the Cc(D) during conversions between Dp and Da for particles having a dynamic shape factor of 1.12, a density of 2.20 g/cm3, and a Da of 550 nm. The deviation of ρe could be amplified by 55.5% and 11.2% due to the squared term in the formula. Therefore, this comment argues that it is irrational to ignore Cc(D) when calculating Dp and ρe by using Dm and Da.
A new regulatory mechanism of protein phosphatase 2A activity via SET in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Arriazu Elena , Vicente Carmen , Pippa Raffaella , Peris Irene , Martínez-Balsalobre Elena , García-Ramírez Patricia , Marcotegui Nerea , Igea Ana , Alignani Diego , Rifón José , Mateos María C. , Cayuela María L. , Nebreda Angel R. , Odero María D.
Published: January 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy. Although novel emerging drugs are available, the overall prognosis remains poor and new therapeutic approaches are required. PP2A phosphatase is a key regulator of cell homeostasis and is recurrently inactivated in AML. The anticancer activity of several PP2A-activating drugs (e.g., FTY720) depends on their interaction with the SET oncoprotein, an endogenous PP2A inhibitor that is overexpressed in 30% of AML cases. Elucidation of SET regulatory mechanisms may therefore provide novel targeted therapies forSET-overexpressing AMLs. Here, we show that upregulation of protein kinase p38β is a common event in AML. We provide evidence that p38β potentiates SET-mediated PP2A inactivation by two mechanisms: facilitating SET cytoplasmic translocation through CK2 phosphorylation, and directly binding to and stabilizing the SET protein. We demonstrate the importance of this new regulatory mechanism in primary AML cells from patients and in zebrafish xenograft models. Accordingly, combination of the CK2 inhibitor CX-4945, which retains SET in the nucleus, and FTY720, which disrupts the SET-PP2A binding in the cytoplasm, significantly reduces the viability and migration of AML cells. In conclusion, we show that the p38β/CK2/SET axis represents a new potential therapeutic pathway in AML patients with SET-dependent PP2A inactivation.
Ectopia associated MN1 fusions and aberrant activation in myeloid neoplasms with t(12;22)(p13;q12)
Authors: Wang Tong , Chen Xue , Hui Shuang , Ni Jingbo , Yin Ying , Cao Wei , Zhang Yan , Wang Xinyu , Ma Xiaoli , Cao Panxiang , Liu Mingyue , Chen Kylan N. , wang Fang , Zhang Yang , Nie Daijing , Yuan Lili , Liu Hongxing
Published: January 2020

Chromosome translocation t(12;22)(p13;q12)/MN1-ETV6 and MN1 overexpression confer a subset of adverse prognostic AML but so far lack in-depth research. We focused on the clinical course and comprehensive genetic analysis of eight cases with t(12;22)(p13;q12) and one with t(12;17;22) (p13;q21;q13) to elucidate their molecular etiology and outcomes of allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The total incidence of t(12;22)(p13;q12) and related translocations was 0.32% in myeloid neoplasms. These patients were confirmed to have dismal prognosis when treated only with chemotherapy, and we firstly provided evidence that they can significantly benefit from timely allo-HSCT. Five cases were MN1-ETV6 positive, and a novel MN1-STAT3 fusion was identified in the patient with triadic translocation. Significant MN1 overexpression was observed in all three MN1-fusion-negative cases. Genetic analysis highlighted the evidence of an ectopic super-enhancer associated orchestrated mechanism of MN1 overexpression and ETV6 haploinsufficiency in t(12;22)(p13;q12) myeloid neoplasms, rather than the conventional thought of MN1-ETV6 fusion formation. We also disclosed the high concomitance of trisomy 8 and 531 Kbps focal 8q duplication in t(12;22)(p13;q12) cases. The new perspective about this entity of disease will enlighten further research to define the mechanism of tumorigenesis and discover effective treatments for MN1-driven malignancies.
Metal ions and sugar puckering balance single-molecule kinetic heterogeneity in RNA and DNA tertiary contacts
Authors: Steffen Fabio D. , Khier Mokrane , Kowerko Danny , Cunha Richard A. , Börner Richard , Sigel Roland K. O.
Published: January 2020

The fidelity of group II intron self-splicing and retrohoming relies on long-range tertiary interactions between the intron and its flanking exons. By single-molecule FRET, we explore the binding kinetics of the most important, structurally conserved contact, the exon and intron binding site 1 (EBS1/IBS1). A comparison of RNA-RNA and RNA-DNA hybrid contacts identifies transient metal ion binding as a major source of kinetic heterogeneity which typically appears in the form of degenerate FRET states. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest a structural link between heterogeneity and the sugar conformation at the exon-intron binding interface. While Mg2+ ions lock the exon in place and give rise to long dwell times in the exon bound FRET state, sugar puckering alleviates this structural rigidity and likely promotes exon release. The interplay of sugar puckering and metal ion coordination may be an important mechanism to balance binding affinities of RNA and DNA interactions in general.
Charge distribution guided by grain crystallographic orientations in polycrystalline battery materials
Authors: Xu Zhengrui , Jiang Zhisen , Kuai Chunguang , Xu Rong , Qin Changdong , Zhang Yan , Rahman Muhammad Mominur , Wei Chenxi , Nordlund Dennis , Sun Cheng-Jun , Xiao Xianghui , Du Xi-Wen , Zhao Kejie , Yan Pengfei , Liu Yijin , Lin Feng
Published: January 2020

Architecting grain crystallographic orientation can modulate charge distribution and chemomechanical properties for enhancing the performance of polycrystalline battery materials. However, probing the interplay between charge distribution, grain crystallographic orientation, and performance remains a daunting challenge. Herein, we elucidate the spatially resolved charge distribution in lithium layered oxides with different grain crystallographic arrangements and establish a model to quantify their charge distributions. While the holistic “surface-to-bulk” charge distribution prevails in polycrystalline particles, the crystallographic orientation-guided redox reaction governs the charge distribution in the local charged nanodomains. Compared to the randomly oriented grains, the radially aligned grains exhibit a lower cell polarization and higher capacity retention upon battery cycling. The radially aligned grains create less tortuous lithium ion pathways, thus improving the charge homogeneity as statistically quantified from over 20 million nanodomains in polycrystalline particles. This study provides an improved understanding of the charge distribution and chemomechanical properties of polycrystalline battery materials.
Chromatin fibers stabilize nucleosomes under torsional stress
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Artur , Meng He , Ordu Orkide , Noort John van , Dekker Nynke H.
Published: January 2020

Torsional stress generated during DNA replication and transcription has been suggested to facilitate nucleosome unwrapping and thereby the progression of polymerases. However, the propagation of twist in condensed chromatin remains yet unresolved. Here, we measure how force and torque impact chromatin fibers with a nucleosome repeat length of 167 and 197. We find that both types of fibers fold into a left-handed superhelix that can be stabilized by positive torsion. We observe that the structural changes induced by twist were reversible, indicating that chromatin has a large degree of elasticity. Our direct measurements of torque confirmed the hypothesis of chromatin fibers as a twist buffer. Using a statistical mechanics-based torsional spring model, we extracted values of the chromatin twist modulus and the linking number per stacked nucleosome that were in good agreement with values measured here experimentally. Overall, our findings indicate that the supercoiling generated by DNA-processing enzymes, predicted by the twin-supercoiled domain model, can be largely accommodated by the higher-order structure of chromatin.
Two dominant boreal conifers use contrasting mechanisms to reactivate photosynthesis in the spring
Authors: Yang Qi , Blanco Nicolás E. , Hermida-Carrera Carmen , Lehotai Nóra , Hurry Vaughan , Strand Åsa
Published: January 2020

Boreal forests are dominated by evergreen conifers that show strongly regulated seasonal photosynthetic activity. Understanding the mechanisms behind seasonal modulation of photosynthesis is crucial for predicting how these forests will respond to changes in seasonal patterns and how this will affect their role in the terrestrial carbon cycle. We demonstrate that the two co-occurring dominant boreal conifers, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies), use contrasting mechanisms to reactivate photosynthesis in the spring. Scots pine downregulates its capacity for CO2 assimilation during winter and activates alternative electron sinks through accumulation of PGR5 and PGRL1 during early spring until the capacity for CO2 assimilation is recovered. In contrast, Norway spruce lacks this ability to actively switch between different electron sinks over the year and as a consequence suffers severe photooxidative damage during the critical spring period.
Symbiont population control by host-symbiont metabolic interaction in Symbiodiniaceae-cnidarian associations
Authors: Xiang Tingting , Lehnert Erik , Jinkerson Robert E. , Clowez Sophie , Kim Rick G. , DeNofrio Jan C. , Pringle John R. , Grossman Arthur R.
Published: January 2020

In cnidarian-Symbiodiniaceae symbioses, algal endosymbiont population control within the host is needed to sustain a symbiotic relationship. However, the molecular mechanisms that underlie such population control are unclear. Here we show that a cnidarian host uses nitrogen limitation as a primary mechanism to control endosymbiont populations. Nitrogen acquisition and assimilation transcripts become elevated in symbiotic Breviolum minutum algae as they reach high-densities within the sea anemone host Exaiptasia pallida. These same transcripts increase in free-living algae deprived of nitrogen. Symbiotic algae also have an elevated carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and shift metabolism towards scavenging nitrogen from purines relative to free-living algae. Exaiptasia glutamine synthetase and glutamate synthase transcripts concomitantly increase with the algal endosymbiont population, suggesting an increased ability of the host to assimilate ammonium. These results suggest algal growth and replication in hospite is controlled by access to nitrogen, which becomes limiting for the algae as their population within the host increases.
Integrin-specific hydrogels modulate transplanted human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell survival, engraftment, and reparative activities
Authors: Clark Amy Y. , Martin Karen E. , García José R. , Johnson Christopher T. , Theriault Hannah S. , Han Woojin M. , Zhou Dennis W. , Botchwey Edward A. , García Andrés J.
Published: January 2020

Stem cell therapies are limited by poor cell survival and engraftment. A hurdle to the use of materials for cell delivery is the lack of understanding of material properties that govern transplanted stem cell functionality. Here, we show that synthetic hydrogels presenting integrin-specific peptides enhance the survival, persistence, and osteo-reparative functions of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) transplanted in murine bone defects. Integrin-specific hydrogels regulate hMSC adhesion, paracrine signaling, and osteoblastic differentiation in vitro. Hydrogels presenting GFOGER, a peptide targeting α2β1 integrin, prolong hMSC survival and engraftment in a segmental bone defect and result in improved bone repair compared to other peptides. Integrin-specific hydrogels have diverse pleiotropic effects on hMSC reparative activities, modulating in vitro cytokine secretion and in vivo gene expression for effectors associated with inflammation, vascularization, and bone formation. These results demonstrate that integrin-specific hydrogels improve tissue healing by directing hMSC survival, engraftment, and reparative activities.
zeo19: A thermodynamic database for assessing zeolite stability during the corrosion of nuclear waste immobilization glasses
Authors: Zhen-Wu Bi Yun , Prentice Dale P. , Ryan Joseph V. , Ellison Kirk , Bauchy Mathieu , Sant Gaurav
Published: January 2020

Stable, durable immobilization of radioactive wastes requires robust understanding of the sub-surface geochemical processes that occur in repository environments. For example, the accelerated dissolution (corrosion) of nuclear waste immobilization glasses (i.e., the so-called “Stage III” corrosion) following the precipitation of zeolitic phases is a significant issue that could result in radionuclide release. However, current uncertainties in establishing the tendency for the persistence of zeolites results in difficulties in estimating the chemical environments and state variables that favor zeolite precipitation. To assess the tendency for Stage III corrosion, we compiled a unified, internally-consistent thermodynamic database to estimate zeolite stability under conditions relevant to nuclear waste repositories (namely, p = 1 bar and T < 95 °C), i.e., for compounds including: analcime, clinoptilolite, mordenite, erionite, thomsonite, bikitaite, brewsterite, dachiardite, epistilbite, ferrierite, gonnardite, harmotome, leonhardite, paranatrolite, tetranatrolite, yugawaralite zeolite X, and zeolite P(Ca). The database, which features both existing and/or newly-derived thermodynamic properties, is integrated with a Gibbs (free) energy minimization (GEM) solver to estimate stable zeolite phase equilibria and their partitioning at equilibrium. The database offers favorable predictions of the solubility of the zeolite phases as a function of temperature. The validity of the database is ascertained by comparing newly-constructed equilibrium activity diagrams with experimental observations of zeolite formation during glass dissolution across conditions encompassing diverse solution chemistries, pH’s, and temperatures.
Characteristics of induced mutations in offspring derived from irradiated mouse spermatogonia and mature oocytes
Authors: Satoh Yasunari , Asakawa Jun-ichi , Nishimura Mayumi , Kuo Tony , Shinkai Norio , Cullings Harry M. , Minakuchi Yohei , Sese Jun , Toyoda Atsushi , Shimada Yoshiya , Nakamura Nori , Uchimura Arikuni
Published: January 2020

The exposure of germ cells to radiation introduces mutations in the genomes of offspring, and a previous whole-genome sequencing study indicated that the irradiation of mouse sperm induces insertions/deletions (indels) and multisite mutations (clustered single nucleotide variants and indels). However, the current knowledge on the mutation spectra is limited, and the effects of radiation exposure on germ cells at stages other than the sperm stage remain unknown. Here, we performed whole-genome sequencing experiments to investigate the exposure of spermatogonia and mature oocytes. We comparedde novomutations in a total of 24 F1 mice conceived before and after the irradiation of their parents. The results indicated that radiation exposure, 4 Gy of gamma rays, induced 9.6 indels and 2.5 multisite mutations in spermatogonia and 4.7 indels and 3.1 multisite mutations in mature oocytes in the autosomal regions of each F1 individual. Notably, we found two types of deletions, namely, small deletions (mainly 1~12 nucleotides) in non-repeat sequences, many of which showed microhomology at the breakpoint junction, and single-nucleotide deletions in mononucleotide repeat sequences. The results suggest that these deletions and multisite mutations could be a typical signature of mutations induced by parental irradiation in mammals.
GPU acceleration of a model-based iterative method for Digital Breast Tomosynthesis
Authors: Cavicchioli R. , Hu J. Cheng , Loli Piccolomini E. , Morotti E. , Zanni L.
Published: January 2020

Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) is a modern 3D Computed Tomography X-ray technique for the early detection of breast tumors, which is receiving growing interest in the medical and scientific community. Since DBT performs incomplete sampling of data, the image reconstruction approaches based on iterative methods are preferable to the classical analytic techniques, such as the Filtered Back Projection algorithm, providing fewer artifacts. In this work, we consider a Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction (MBIR) method well suited to describe the DBT data acquisition process and to include prior information on the reconstructed image. We propose a gradient-based solver named Scaled Gradient Projection (SGP) for the solution of the constrained optimization problem arising in the considered MBIR method. Even if the SGP algorithm exhibits fast convergence, the time required on a serial computer for the reconstruction of a real DBT data set is too long for the clinical needs. In this paper we propose a parallel SGP version designed to perform the most expensive computations of each iteration on Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). We apply the proposed parallel approach on three different GPU boards, with computational performance comparable with that of the boards usually installed in commercial DBT systems. The numerical results show that the proposed GPU-based MBIR method provides accurate reconstructions in a time suitable for clinical trials.
Identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling resistance to pea weevil (Bruchus pisorum) in a high-density integrated DArTseq SNP-based genetic map of pea
Authors: Aznar-Fernández Thais , Barilli Eleonora , Cobos María J. , Kilian Andrzej , Carling Jason , Rubiales Diego
Published: January 2020

Pea weevil (Bruchus pisorum) is a damaging insect pest affecting pea (Pisum sativum) production worldwide. No resistant cultivars are available, although some levels of incomplete resistance have been identified inPisumgermplasm. To decipher the genetic control underlying the resistance previously identify inP. sativumssp.syriacum, a recombinant inbred line (RIL F8:9) population was developed. The RIL was genotyped through Diversity Arrays Technology PL’s DArTseq platform and screened under field conditions for weevil seed infestation and larval development along 5 environments. A newly integrated genetic linkage map was generated with a subset of 6,540 markers, assembled into seven linkage groups, equivalent to the number of haploid pea chromosomes. An accumulated distance of 2,503 cM was covered with an average density of 2.61 markers cM−1. The linkage map allowed the identification of three QTLs associated to reduced seed infestation along LGs I, II and IV. In addition, a QTL for reduced larval development was also identified in LGIV. Expression of these QTLs varied with the environment, being particularly interesting QTLBpSI.IIIthat was detected in most of the environments studied. This high-saturated pea genetic map has also allowed the identification of seven potential candidate genes co-located with QTLs for marker-assisted selection, providing an opportunity for breeders to generate effective and sustainable strategies for weevil control.
Structural analysis of retinal blood vessels in patients with COPD during a pulmonary rehabilitation program
Authors: Vaes Anouk W. , Spruit Martijn A. , Van Keer Karel , Barbosa-Breda João , Wouters Emiel F. M. , Franssen Frits M. E. , Theunis Jan , De Boever Patrick
Published: January 2020

Cardiovascular diseases are frequently present in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Population-based studies found associations between retinal vessel diameters and cardiovascular health, but it is unknown whether this also applies to COPD patients. Therefore, we measured retinal vessel diameters in COPD patients and aimed to determine the association with cardiovascular risk factors, lung function, and functional outcomes. In addition, we investigated whether an exercise-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program would change retinal vessel diameters, as a proxy for improved microvascular health. Demographics and clinical characteristics, including pulmonary function, exercise capacity, blood pressure, blood measurements and level of systemic inflammation were obtained from 246 patients during routine assessment before and after PR. Retinal vessel diameters were measured from digital retinal images. Older age and higher systolic blood pressure were associated with narrower retinal arterioles (β: −0.224; p = 0.042 and β: −0.136; p < 0.001, respectively). Older age, higher systolic blood pressure and lower level of systemic inflammation were associated with narrower retinal venules (β: −0.654; −0.229; and −13.767, respectively; p < 0.05). No associations were found between retinal vessel diameters and lung function parameters or functional outcomes. After PR, no significant changes in retinal venular or arteriolar diameter were found. To conclude, retinal vessel diameters of COPD patients were significantly associated with systolic blood pressure and systemic inflammation, whilst there was no evidence for an association with lung function parameters, functional outcomes or other cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, an exercise-based PR program did not affect retinal vessel diameter.
Comparative study of stenting and ostium packing in Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy for Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Authors: Chin Joyce , Lam Vincent , Chan Regine , Li C. L. , Yeung Luke , Law Antony , Young Alvin , Yuen Hunter , Ali Mohammad Javed , Chong Kelvin K. L.
Published: January 2020

In this retrospective study, we compared the efficacy and safety of mechanical adjuvants in mucosal-sparing, mechanical endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (MMED) for primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO). 116 adult patients (90 female) aged 61 ± 11 received one of the following after MMED without topical mitomycin: no stenting or packing (group 1, n = 25), 1-week ostium packing by ribbon gauze (group 2, n = 29) or non-medicated absorbable gelatin sponge (group 3, n = 25), 8-week bicanalicular stenting (group 4, n = 28). 104 patients(92%) provided 12-month outcomes. Number of patients, age, gender, surgeon, and osteotomy size were comparable among groups (p = 0.4–0.9). Marginal significance was found in anatomical (group 1:80%, group 2:96.6%, group 3:96%, group 4:96.4%, p = 0.05) but not functional success (group 1:85%, group 2:85.7%, group 3:83.3%, group 4:88.9%, p = 0.75) at postoperative 12-month. Patients receiving any packing or stenting achieved better anatomical (96% versus 80%, p = 0.015) but not functional success (85% versus 86%, p = 0.90) compared to those receiving none. More patients receiving stenting developed postoperative granuloma than those who did not (87% versus 63%, p = 0.04). 1-week ostium packing was found to be as effective as 8-week bicanalicular intubation in improving anatomical outcome after MMED for PANDO. Functional outcome, however, did not differ among patients receiving mechanical adjuvant or not.
Perceived stress and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in apparently healthy men and women
Authors: Kang Danbee , Zhao Di , Ryu Seungho , Guallar Eliseo , Cho Juhee , Lazo Mariana , Shin Hocheol , Chang Yoosoo , Sung Eunju
Published: January 2020

Psychological stress may have adverse metabolic effects and induce unhealthy behaviors, but the role of stress in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is largely unexplored. We investigated the association between perceived stress and the prevalence of NAFLD in a large sample of apparently healthy men and women. We performed a cross-sectional study of 171,321 adults who underwent health screening examination between 2011 and 2013 in one health screening center. Perceived stress was assessed using the short version of the Perceived Stress Inventory (PSI). NAFLD was assessed using ultrasonography in the absence of excessive alcohol use or any other identifiable cause of liver disease. The prevalence of NAFLD was 27.8%. In fully-adjusted multivariable models, the odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) for NAFLD comparing participants in the 5th quintile of PSI score (≥23) with those in the lowest quintile (<12) was 1.17 (1.11, 1.22), with a moderately increased prevalence of NALFD across quintiles of PSI score. The positive association between PSI score and NAFLD was observed in all subgroups analyzed, although the association was stronger in men compared to women (p interaction <0.001), and in obese compared to non-obese (p interaction 0.005). In this large study of apparently healthy men and women, higher perceived stress was independently associated with an increased prevalence of NAFLD, supporting a possible relationship between perceived stress and NAFLD. Prospective study is needed to elucidate mediating mechanisms to warrant stress management to reduce NAFLD.
Publisher Correction: High-throughput analysis unveils a highly shared satellite DNA library among three species of fish genus Astyanax
Authors: Silva Duílio M. Z. de A. , Utsunomia Ricardo , Ruiz-Ruano Francisco J. , Daniel Sandro Natal , Porto-Foresti Fábio , Hashimoto Diogo Teruo , Oliveira Claudio , Camacho Juan Pedro M. , Foresti Fausto
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A method to disentangle and quantify host anabolic turnover in photosymbiotic holobionts with subcellular resolution
Authors: Gibbin Emma , Banc-Prandi Guilhem , Fine Maoz , Comment Arnaud , Meibom Anders
Published: January 2020

A wide range of organisms host photosynthesizing symbionts. In these animals the metabolic exchange between host and symbionts has prevented in situ host anabolic turnover to be studied without the confounding effect of translocated photosynthates. Using the symbiotic coral Stylophora pistillata as a model organism and [1-13C]-pyruvate and [2,3-13C]-pyruvate in different incubation conditions (light, light + DCMU, and darkness), we employed NanoSIMS isotopic imaging to quantify host anabolism, with and without translocated metabolites from their photosynthesizing dinoflagellate symbionts. Under our experimental conditions, host de novo lipid synthesis accounted for ~40% of the total holobiont lipid reserve, and dinoflagellate recycling of metabolic 13CO2 enhanced host tissue 13C-enrichment by 13–22% in the epidermis, 40–58% in the gastrodermis, and 135–169% in host lipid bodies. Furthermore, we show that host anabolic turnover in different tissue structures differs, in a manner consistent with the localisation, function and cellular composition of these structures.
Novel polyethyleneimine functionalized chitosan–lignin composite sponge with nanowall-network structures for fast and efficient removal of Hg(ii) ions from aqueous solution
Authors: Zhang Dan , Wang Lan , Zeng Hehua , Rhimi Baker , Wang Chuanyi
Published: January 2020

An environmental-friendly polyethyleneimine functionalized chitosan–lignin composite sponge with interconnected nanowall-network structures is feasibly fabricated for rapidly and selectively removing Hg(ii) ions from aqueous solution.
Increased applied voltage in the presence of GAC enhances microbial activity and methane production during anaerobic digestion of food waste
Authors: Harb Moustapha , Ermer Noel , BouNehme Sawaya Christelle , Smith Adam L.
Published: January 2020

Assessment of key microbial activities during the combined bioelectrochemical and conductive material-based enhancement of anaerobic digestion.
Effects of irradiation on the structure and properties of glycosylated soybean proteins
Authors: Wang Yuying , Zhang Anqi , Wang Yixiao , Wang Xibo , Xu Ning , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: January 2020

At present, there are few reports on the glycosylation modification of soybean proteins under irradiation.
One-step in vivo metabolic labeling as a theranostic approach for overcoming drug-resistant bacterial infections
Authors: Mao Duo , Hu Fang , Kenry  , Qi Guobin , Ji Shenglu , Wu Wenbo , Kong Deling , Liu Bin
Published: January 2020

A bacterial metabolic probe with AIE characteristics shows great potential in in vivo light-up imaging of bacteria and antibacterial therapy.
Correction: Nanoparticle binding attenuates the pathobiology of gastric cancer-associated Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Westmeier Dana , Posselt Gernot , Hahlbrock Angelina , Bartfeld Sina , Vallet Cecilia , Abfalter Carmen , Docter Dominic , Knauer Shirley K. , Wessler Silja , Stauber Roland H.
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘Nanoparticle binding attenuates the pathobiology of gastric cancer-associated Helicobacter pylori’ by Dana Westmeier et al., Nanoscale, 2018, 10, 1453–1463.
A rapid and reversible thermochromic supramolecular polymer hydrogel and its application in protected quick response codes
Authors: Li Bo , Lin Cuiling , Lu Chenjie , Zhang Jinjin , He Tian , Qiu Huayu , Yin Shouchun
Published: January 2020

A rapid and reversible thermochromic fluorescent supramolecular polymer hydrogel prepared by orthogonal self-assembly of host–guest and metal coordination interactions, has been used in protected quick response codes.
Preparation and optimization of activated nano-carbon production using physical activation by water steam from agricultural wastes
Authors: Nazem Mohammad Amin , Zare Masoud Habibi , Shirazian Saeed
Published: January 2020

Production of activated nano-carbon from agricultural wastes was studied in this work.
Recent developments in detoxication techniques for aristolochic acid-containing traditional Chinese medicines
Authors: Fan Yang , Li Zongming , Xi Jun
Published: January 2020

Aristolochic acids (AAs) have attracted significant attention because they have been proven to be the culprits in the mass incidents of AA nephropathy that occurred in Belgium in 1993.
Hierarchical porosityvialayer-tunnel conversion of macroporous δ-MnO2nanosheet assemblies
Authors: Metz Peter C. , Ladonis Alec C. , Gao Peng , Hey Trevyn , Misture Scott T.
Published: January 2020

This work reports the layer-tunnel conversion of porous dehydrated synthetic alkali-free δ-MnO2analogs prepared by exfoliation, flocculation, and heat treatment of nanosheets derived from highly crystalline potassium birnessite.
Aqueous-phase detection of antibiotics and nitroaromatic explosives by an alkali-resistant Zn-MOF directed by an ionic liquid
Authors: Qin Jian-Hua , Huang Ya-Dan , Shi Ming-Yu , Wang Hua-Rui , Han Min-Le , Yang Xiao-Gang , Li Fei-Fei , Ma Lu-Fang
Published: January 2020

An alkali-resistant 3D anionic Zn-MOF directed by [BMI]Br ionic liquid has been synthesized for aqueous-phase detection of antibiotics and nitroaromatic explosives.
The biosorptive uptake of enrofloxacin from synthetically produced contaminated water by tamarind seed derived activated carbon
Authors: Samanta Sucharita , Chowdhury Somnath , DasSharma Debasis , Halder Gopinath
Published: January 2020

The veterinary antibiotic enrofloxacin (ENR), an emerging contaminant, poses great concern due to its ubiquitous nature.
Nanostructure domains, voids, and low-frequency spectra in binary mixtures of N,N-dimethylacetamide and ionic liquids with varying cationic size
Authors: Reddy Th. Dhileep N. , Mallik Bhabani S.
Published: January 2020

Classical MD simulations were carried out on binary mixtures of DMA with hydroxide based ammonium ILs, TEAH, TPAH and TBAH, at three different mole fractions of IL.
Sub-millimeter size high mobility single crystal MoSe2 monolayers synthesized by NaCl-assisted chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Li Juncheng , Yan Wenjie , Lv Yanhui , Leng Jian , Zhang Duan , Ó Coileáin Cormac , Cullen Conor P. , Stimpel-Lindner Tanja , Duesberg Georg S. , Cho Jiung , Choi Miri , Chun Byong Sun , Zhao Yanfeng , Lv Chengzhai , Arora Sunil K. , Wu Han-Chun
Published: January 2020

Sub-millimeter single crystal MoSe2 monolayers with a mobility of 38 cm2 V−1 s−1 and responsivity of 42 mA W−1 were synthesized by NaCl-assisted chemical vapor deposition.
Improving the toughness of thermosetting epoxy resins via blending triblock copolymers
Authors: Tao Lei , Sun Zeyu , Min Wei , Ou Hanwen , Qi Liangliang , Yu Muhuo
Published: January 2020

In this study, the triblock copolymer poly(methyl methacrylate)-b-poly(butyl acrylate)-b-poly(methyl methacrylate) (MAM) was used to modify bisphenol A epoxy resin to improve its toughness.
Magnetic recyclable CoFe2O4@PPy prepared by in situ Fenton oxidization polymerization with advanced photo-Fenton performance
Authors: Deng Yuanming , Zhao Xiaoman , Luo Junxuan , Wang Zhong , Tang Jiaoning
Published: January 2020

Here we present a magnetic recyclable photo-Fenton catalyst CoFe2O4@PPy with uniform morphology and excellent dispersibility prepared via simple in situ Fenton oxidization polymerization.
Evaporation and drying kinetics of water-NaCl droplets via acoustic levitation
Authors: Maruyama Yutaro , Hasegawa Koji
Published: January 2020

The droplet levitation dynamics associated with the evaporation and precipitation facilitate a more universal understanding for potential lab-in-a-drop applications.
Enhanced cathode performance of Fe2O3, boron nitride-doped rGO nanosheets for microbial fuel cell applications
Authors: Mahalingam Shanmugam , Ayyaru Sivasankaran , Ahn Young-Ho
Published: January 2020

Iron(iii) oxide (Fe2O3) and boron nitride (BN)-doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets were prepared successfully using a surfactant-free hydrothermal method.
Novel gas sensing platform based on a stretchable laser-induced graphene pattern with self-heating capabilities
Authors: Yang Li , Yi Ning , Zhu Jia , Cheng Zheng , Yin Xinyang , Zhang Xueyi , Zhu Hongli , Cheng Huanyu
Published: January 2020

Laser-induced graphene based gas sensor conformable to skin with low detection limit at low temperature.
Two-stage reconstruction for flexor tendon injuries in zone II using a silicone rod and pedicled sublimis tendon graft
Authors: Abdul-Kader Mohammed Heshmat , Amin Mahmound A. M.
Published: January 2020

We report the results of staged flexor tendon reconstruction in 12 patients (12 fingers) with neglected or failed primary repair of flexor tendon injuries in zone II. Injuries involved both flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and flexor digitorum sublimis (FDS), with poor prognosis (Boyes grades II–IV). The procedure included placing a silicone rod and creating a loop between the FDP and FDS in the first stage and reflecting the latter as a pedicled graft through the pseudosheath created around the silicone rod in the second stage. At a mean follow-up of 18 months (range 12–30 months), results were assessed by clinical examination and questionnaire. The mean total active motion of these fingers was 188°. The mean power grip was 80.0% and pinch grip was 76% of the contralateral hand. The rate of excellent and good results was 75% according to the Buck-Gramcko scale. These results were better than the subjective scores given by the patients. Complications included postoperative hematoma in two, infection in one, silicone synovitis in one (after stage I) and three flexion contractures after stage II. This study confirmed the usefulness of two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction using the combined technique as a salvage procedure to restore flexor tendon function with a few complications.
Electronic, magnetic, and structural properties of Fe2MnSn Heusler alloy
Authors: Dahal Bishnu , Al Maruf Abdullah , Prophet Sam , Huh Yung , Lukashev Pavel V. , Kharel Parashu
Published: January 2020

We performed combined theoretical and experimental studies of electronic, structural, and magnetic properties of Fe2MnSn Heusler alloy. The density functional theory calculation shows that the Fe2MnSn alloy has two energetically close phases, namely, hexagonal D019 and cubic L21, which agrees well with the experimental results. Both the hexagonal and cubic phases are ferromagnetic, with large magnetization values of about 6 μB/f.u. and high Curie temperature above room temperature. The hexagonal phase shows high magnetic anisotropy of 5.1 Merg/cm3. These findings may be interesting for magnetic applications where large saturation magnetization, high Curie temperature, and high magnetic anisotropy are desired.
A soft sandwich structure enables voltage-induced actuation of liquid metal embedded elastomers
Authors: Wang Yin , Sun Geng , Yang Juancheng , Zhang Ling , Zhou Jinxiong
Published: January 2020

Dispersing liquid metal droplets in a soft elastomer matrix yields a composite, called liquid metal embedded elastomer (LMEE), with less modified stiffness but noticeably increased relative permittivity. Stretching and applying voltage through the thickness of the elastomer composite directly, it is vulnerable to the loss of being an insulator due to the conductive pathway formed during prestretching. Here, we describe a very simple sandwich structure that enables electromechanical actuation of LMEE. It consists of two very high bonding tapes as skins and a layer of LMEE as the core, making the sandwich all polymeric and thus stretchable. The electromechanical performance of a LMEE made of Ecoflex and Galinstan at various mass ratios was systematically measured. For a typical circular actuation made of the sandwich structure, a 90% areal actuation strain was achieved. Our efforts pave the way for various applications of LMEE.
Magnetic bipolar transistor based on ZnO/NiO/Si heterostructure using pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Kaur Harsimrat , Sharma Monika , Ghosh RamKrishna , Mohapatra Satyabrata , Kuanr Bijoy K.
Published: January 2020

Oxide semiconductors are promising candidates for next generation electronics. In this work, magnetic bipolar transistor was fabricated by growing thin films of p-NiO and n-ZnO on n-type silicon wafer by pulsed laser deposition technique with an in-situ annealing at 670° C in the presence of oxygen. The structural characterization of these films was done by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy and magnetic properties were studied by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). I-V characteristic of fabricated transistor was tested in common emitter configuration with DC biasing. Junction parameters such as ideality factor, series resistance, and transistor parameters like q-point were determined by using conventional transistor output characteristics. The diode and transistor showed an increase in current with the externally applied magnetic field due to the presence of Nickel or Oxygen vacancies in NiO attributing to spin polarized bipolar transport. Therefore the current amplification in these devices can be controlled by spin; making it attractive for spintronic applications.
Evaluation of magnetic properties in ferromagnetic martensite particle using type 304 stainless steel wire
Authors: Kinoshita K.
Published: January 2020

In this study, the magnetic properties of a single martensite particle were investigated using type 304 stainless wire, which can reduce the number of crystal grains per unit area. First, the magnetization curve of wire specimens with different martensite fractions was measured by a SQUID magnetic flux meter. Then, the coercivity and susceptibility parameters were evaluated from the magnetization curve and factors contributing to these parameters were discussed. It was found that the coercivity values along the long and short axes of wire specimens with a diameter of 0.4 mm increased and subsequently decreased with an increase in the martensite fraction. Further, the susceptibility values of the same specimen along the long axis increased and along the short axis decreased with increasing martensite fractions. The results indicate that the coercivity and susceptibility of a martensite particle are affected by the size of variant clusters and the shape anisotropy of the martensite particle.
A mixing formula accounting for inversion of matrix structure
Authors: Starostenko S. N. , Rozanov K. N. , Bovtun V. , Shiryaev A. O.
Published: January 2020

Known mixing models are analyzed with the aim to retrieve permeability of metal inclusions from the measured constitutive parameters of a binary composite. The application-oriented models are interpreted in terms of inclusion shape-factor and percolation threshold, which are two measurement-fitted parameters. A model that accounts for the inversion of the Maxwell Garnett matrix structure is proposed. The structure inversion point is close to the percolation threshold, and the inversion takes place within a transition filling range that is a third fitting parameter. The proposed model is compared with the effective medium model in terms of the complex susceptibility calculated as the function of filling and of frequency and in terms of Bergman-Milton shape-factor distribution charts. The model validity is illustrated by treatment of the measured microwave constitutive parameters of a composite filled with carbonyl nickel.
A first look at Pyu grammar
Authors: Miyake Marc
Published: January 2020

Pyu, an extinct Sino-Tibetan language once spoken in what is now Upper Burma, remains barely explored beyond the level of transliterating texts and the identification of individual words. Knowledge of Pyu grammar has advanced little over the past century. This article (1) presents a methodology for discovering the syntax of Pyu, (2) identifies five word classes and their combinatorial properties, (3) lists all known grammatical morphemes with notes on usage, (4) formulates rules of word order, and (5) demonstrates how all of the above can elucidate the meaning of a previously undeciphered Pyu inscription. Over 200 examples are provided.
High‐intensity cycling re‐warm up within a very short time‐frame increases the subsequent intermittent sprint performance
Authors: Yanaoka Takuma , Hamada Yuka , Fujihira Kyoko , Yamamoto Ryo , Iwata Risa , Miyashita Masashi , Hirose Norikazu
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the effect of high‐intensity cycling re‐warm up (RW) within a very short time‐frame on the subsequent intermittent sprint performance. Twelve active males completed three trials in random order: control (CON); 3‐min RW at 30% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (RW30); and 1‐min RW at 90% of VO2max (RW90). During the experimental trials, participants performed 40‐min intermittent cycling exercise followed by 15‐min rest. During the rest period, participants completed CON, RW30, or RW90. After the rest period, participants performed the Cycling Intermittent‐Sprint Protocol (CISP), which consisted of 10‐s rest, 5‐s maximal sprint, and 105‐s active recovery with the cycles repeated over 10 min. The mean work during sprint for the CISP was significantly higher in both RW trials than in the CON trial (mean±standard deviation; CON: 3539±698 J; RW30: 3724±720 J; RW90: 3739±736 J; p<0.05). The mean electromyogram amplitude during the sprint for the CISP was higher in the RW30 trial than in the CON trial; however, there was no significant difference between the two trials (p=0.06). The mean median frequency during sprint for the CISP was significantly higher in the RW90 trial than in the other trials (p<0.05). Rectal temperature did not differ among the three trials. Oxygenated haemoglobin during the initial 30 s of the CISP was significantly higher in the RW90 trial than in the CON trial (p<0.05). Compared with seated rest, RW, irrespective of whether it comprised 1‐min at 90% of VO2max or 3‐min at 30% of VO2max, increased the subsequent intermittent sprint performance.