bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-response association of serum alanine aminotransferase levels with multimorbidity
Authors: Zhang Yuxia , Yu Lugang , Wang Xiaoying , Qin Liqiang , Shen Yueping , Ke Chaofu
Published: May 2019

Multimorbidity has posed a major challenge to health care systems worldwide, but little is known about its association with biological factors. This study represents the first one to examine the association of serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with multimorbidity. The baseline category logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) between ALT and multimorbidity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the classification utility of ALT. Serum ALT levels were associated, in a dose-response manner, with multimorbidity. Compared with the first quartile, the adjusted OR (95% confidence interval) of the fourth quartile for multimorbidity was 4.71 (3.56–6.23). In addition, the AUC value for distinguishing the multimorbidity group from the control group reached 0.7185. In conclusion, high levels of ALT were significantly correlated with multimorbidity and this association was independent of other potential risk factors. Serum ALT might be a useful marker for identifying individuals with multimorbidity.
ZIKV Strains Differentially Affect Survival of Human Fetal Astrocytes versus Neurons and Traffic of ZIKV-Laden Endocytotic Compartments
Authors: Jorgačevski Jernej , Korva Miša , Potokar Maja , Lisjak Marjeta , Avšič-Županc Tatjana , Zorec Robert
Published: May 2019

Malformations of the fetal CNS, known as microcephaly, have been linked to Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. Here, the responses of mammalian and mosquito cell lines, in addition to primary human fetal astrocytes and neurons were studied following infection by ZIKV strains Brazil 2016 (ZIKV-BR), French Polynesia 2013 (ZIKV-FP), and Uganda #976 1947 (ZIKV-UG). Viral production, cell viability, infectivity rate, and mobility of endocytotic ZIKV-laden vesicles were compared. All cell types (SK-N-SH, Vero E6, C6/36, human fetal astrocytes and human fetal neurons) released productive virus. Among primary cells, astrocytes were more susceptible to ZIKV infection than neurons, released more progeny virus and tolerated higher virus loads than neurons. In general, the infection rate of ZIKV-UG strain was the highest. All ZIKV strains elicited differences in trafficking of ZIKV-laden endocytotic vesicles in the majority of cell types, including astrocytes and neurons, except in mosquito cells, where ZIKV infection failed to induce cell death. These results represent a thorough screening of cell viability, infection and production of three ZIKV strains in five different cell types and demonstrate that ZIKV affects vesicle mobility in all but mosquito cells.
Effects of açai on oxidative stress, ER stress, and inflammation-related parameters in mice with high fat diet-fed induced NAFLD
Authors: de Freitas Carvalho Mayara Medeiros , Lage Nara Nunes , de Souza Paulino Alice Helena , Pereira Renata Rebeca , de Almeida Letícia Trindade , da Silva Tales Fernando , de Brito Magalhães Cíntia Lopes , de Lima Wanderson Geraldo , Silva Marcelo Eustáquio , Pedrosa Maria Lucia , da Costa Guerra Joyce Ferreira
Published: May 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most predominant liver disease worldwide, is a progressive condition that encompasses a spectrum of disorders ranging from steatosis to steatohepatitis, and, ultimately, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the underlying mechanism is complex and multifactorial, several intracellular events leading to its progression have been identified, including oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and altered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis. Phenolic compounds, such as those present in açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), are considered promising therapeutic agents due to their possible beneficial effects on the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. We tested in vitro effects of aqueous açai extract (AAE) in HepG2 cells and its influence on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inflammation in a murine model of high fat diet-induced NAFLD. In vitro AAE exhibited high antioxidant capacity, high potential to inhibit reactive oxygen species production, and no cytotoxicity. In vivo, AAE administration (3 g/kg) for six weeks attenuated liver damage (alanine aminotransferase levels), inflammatory process (number of inflammatory cells and serum TNFα), and oxidative stress, through the reduction of lipid peroxidation and carbonylation of proteins determined by OxyBlot and modulation of the antioxidant enzymes: glutathione reductase, SOD and catalase. No change was observed in collagen content indicating an absence of fibrosis, stress-related genes in RE, and protein expression of caspase-3, a marker of apoptosis. With these results, we provide evidence that açai exhibits hepatoprotective effects and may prevent the progression of liver damage related to NAFLD by targeting pathways involved in its progression.
Modelling soil detachment by overland flow for the soil in the Tibet Plateau of China
Authors: Li Mingyi , Hai Xiao , Hong Huan , Shao Yanyan , Peng Doudou , Xu Wennian , Yang Yueshu , Zheng Yan , Xia Zhenyao
Published: May 2019

The overland flow erosion is common and became more serious because of the climate warming inducing more runoff in the Tibet Plateau. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the effects of flow rate, slope gradient, shear stress, stream power, unit stream power and unit energy of water-carrying section on the soil detachment capacity for the soil in the Tibet Plateau of China due to the information is limited. To achieve this aim, laboratory experiments were performed under six flow rates (5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 L min−1) and six slope gradients (8.74%, 17.63%, 26.79%, 36.40%, 46.63 and 57.73%) by using a slope-adjustable steel hydraulic flume (4 m length, 0.4 m width, 0.2 m depth). The results indicated that soil detachment capacity ranged from 0.173 to 6.325 kg m−2 s−1 with 1.972 kg m−2 s−1 on average. The soil detachment capacity increased with power function as the flow rate and the slope gradient augmented (R2 = 0.965, NRMSE = 0.177 and NSE = 0.954). The soil detachment capacity was more influenced by flow rate than by slope gradient in this study. The relation between soil detachment capacity and shear stress, stream power, unit stream power and unit energy of water-carrying section can be described by using the linear function and power function, the power function relationship performed better than the linear function in generally. The stream power exhibits the best performance in describing the soil detachment capacity among shear stress, stream power, unit stream power and unit energy of water-carrying section in this study. The erodibility value in this study was larger than and the critical shear stress was less than those for soil in the eastern China. There has a huge potential for the soil in the Tibet Plateau eroded by the water erosion when enough runoff exiting. More attention should be payed to the water erosion process and mechanism in the Tibet Plateau area in the future.
Lanthanide-doped KYb3F10 crystals: controllable phases, rich morphologies and Tb3+/Eu3+ down-conversion emission
Authors: Xia Wenpeng , Xiong Jie , Jiang Li , Ye Rui , Mao Yini , Hu Shanshan , Yang Jun
Published: May 2019

KYb3F10:Ln3+ (Ln = Er, Ho, Tb, Gd, Eu, Sm, Ce and La) micro/nanocrystals with abundant morphologies were synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal route without employing any surfactants.
Molecular fractionation and sub-nanoscale distribution of dissolved organic matter on allophane
Authors: Ding Yang , Lu Yang , Liao Peng , Peng Shimeng , Liang Yuzhen , Lin Zhang , Dang Zhi , Shi Zhenqing
Published: May 2019

We elucidated the spatial distribution of DOM on allophane and the mechanisms controlling the adsorptive fractionation of DOM molecules.
Emerging investigator series: transformation of common antibiotics during water disinfection with chlorine and formation of antibacterially active products
Authors: Kennedy Neth Nicole L. , Carlin Clifford M. , Keen Olya S.
Published: May 2019

This study determined that at chlorination conditions representative of wastewater treatment, fluoroquinolones, one of the common antibiotic classes, form antibacterially active products.
Self-assembled ultrathin film of CNC/PVA–liquid metal composite as a multifunctional Janus material
Authors: Zhang Pengju , Wang Qian , Guo Rui , Zhang Mingkuan , Wang Shunqi , Lu Chennan , Xue Mianqi , Fan Junbing , He Zhizhu , Rao Wei
Published: May 2019

A new way to fabricate asymmetric, flexible, and ultrathin liquid metal Janus films with electrical, optical, and thermal anisotropies is demonstrated.
One stone two birds: cobalt-catalyzed in situ generation of isocyanates and benzyl alcohols for the synthesis of N-aryl carbamates
Authors: Li Sida , Khan Ruhima , Zhang Xia , Yang Yong , Wang Zheting , Zhan Yong , Dai Yuze , Liu Yue-e , Fan Baomin
Published: May 2019

An efficient method for the synthesis of N-aryl carbamates from N-Boc-protected amines has been developed.
Transition-metal-free direct nucleophilic substitution of carboranyllithium and 2-halopyridines
Authors: Lu Ju-You , Zhao Bo , Du Yongmei , Yang Jianxin , Lu Jian
Published: May 2019

An efficient C(cage)–heteroarylation of carborane is presented,viadirect nucleophilic substitution of carboranyllithium with 2-halopyridines under transition-metal-free conditions. The process utilizes readily available carboranyllithium nucleophile, and exhibits a broad substrate scope.
Ring closing metathesis (RCM) approach to the synthesis of conduramine B-2, ent-conduramine F-2, aminocyclopentitol and trihydroxyazepane
Authors: Harit Vimal Kant , Ramesh Namakkal G.
Published: May 2019

A Diversity Oriented Synthesis (DOS) strategy has been applied to obtain three skeletally distinct molecules from a common precursor derived from tri-O-benzyl-d-glucal.
Teachers personalize videos and animations of biochemical processes: results from a professional development workshop
Authors: Dorfman Bat-Shahar , Terrill Bronwyn , Patterson Kate , Yarden Anat , Blonder Ron
Published: May 2019

Despite the advancements in the production and accessibility of videos and animations, a gap exists between their potential for science teaching and their actual use in the classroom. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate an approach to boost chemistry and biology teachers’ Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) and their confidence regarding the use of videos and animations in class, which are required for their effective implementation. Twelve experienced high-school chemistry and biology teachers participated in a professional development workshop including biochemistry and technological–pedagogical lectures along with video-editing instruction and practice. Teachers were provided with digital videos including high-resolution scientifically based animations and were encouraged to edit them based on their pedagogical experience and the needs of their class. We investigated how the workshop affected teachers' TPACK-confidence and TPACK. TPACK-confidence was assessed by pre- and post-workshop questionnaires and open-ended feedback questionnaires. TPACK was assessed by analyses of the edited digital videos and pedagogical considerations submitted by the teachers. It was found that teachers' TPACK-confidence was significantly higher following the workshop. There was also a development in the teachers' TPACK. They were able to recommend to use digital videos in a variety of classroom situations based on the technological pedagogical knowledge (e.g., as an opening to a new topic) and their TPACK (e.g., to visualize complex biochemical processes). We also found a development in their video-editing skills and their knowledge of how to use this technology effectively in biochemistry lessons. Results indicate that training teachers in using technological tools while providing them with relevant Content Knowledge and TPACK, and relying on their pre-existing Pedagogical Content Knowledge may assist them develop their TPACK and TPACK-confidence. This may promote the effective use of videos and animations in biochemistry teaching.
Nickel phosphide decorated with trace amount of platinum as an efficient electrocatalyst for the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Xia Jiawei , Dhaka Kapil , Volokh Michael , Peng Guiming , Wu Zhen , Fu Yongsheng , Caspary Toroker Maytal , Wang Xin , Shalom Menny
Published: May 2019

Electrocatalytic water-splitting is considered as a highly promising technology for the sustainable production of hydrogen.
A Ca2+ MOF combining highly efficient sorption and capability for voltammetric determination of heavy metal ions in aqueous media
Authors: Pournara Anastasia D. , Margariti Antigoni , Tarlas Georgios D. , Kourtelaris Andreas , Petkov Valeri , Kokkinos Christos , Economou Anastasios , Papaefstathiou Giannis S. , Manos Manolis J.
Published: May 2019

The two-dimensional Ca-MOF shows a dual function as a sorbent and an electrochemical sensor for heavy metal ions, which is reported for the first time for a MOF material.
Expanding the upper limits of robustness of cellulose nanocrystal aerogels: outstanding mechanical performance and associated pore compression response of chiral-nematic architectures
Authors: Tripathi Anurodh , Tardy Blaise L. , Khan Saad A. , Liebner Falk , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: May 2019

Anisotropy in liquid crystal dispersions of cellulose nanocrystals is demonstrated to drastically enhance the mechanical attributes of derived aerogels.
Association between TGF-β1 -913G/C polymorphism and myocardial infarction risk in a Chinese Han population: a case–control study
Authors: Wu Lili , Chen Guofan , Song Jia
Published: May 2019

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 contributed to angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated collagen accumulation after myocardial infarction (MI). The present study aimed to investigate the association of genetic variant of TGF-β1 gene with the risk of MI. The present study recruited a total of 530 MI patients and 651 healthy controls. The genomic DNA was extracted and subjected into polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing. The present study indicated that TGF-β1 -913G/C polymorphism was associated with increased risk for MI under the co-dominant, dominant and allelic models. The increased risk effect was also evident among the females, younger subjects (age < 60 years), smokers, non-drinkers and individuals with hypertension. Additionally, the present study observed significant differences among cases and controls in terms of total cholesterol (TC). In conclusion, TGF-β1 -913G/C polymorphism is associated with increased risk for MI. TGF-β1 -913G/C polymorphism may be a potential prognostic biomarker for MI.
Combining use of Phillyrin and autophagy blocker alleviates laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma via AMPK/mTOR/p70S6K signaling
Authors: Wang Da-hua , He Xi , He Qing
Published: May 2019

Phillyrin (PHN), one of the major active constituents of Forsythia suspensa and F. koreana, has been reported to produce antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects. However, no study has demonstrated the role of PHN in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). We aimed to investigate the effects of PHN on the proliferation and apoptosis of HEp-2 cells. In the present study, PHN alone showed little effect on HEp-2 cell proliferation and apoptosis. Subsequent tests showed that PHN could largely enhance the level of autophagy on HEp-2 cells. Combining use of PHN and autophagy blockers including 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and chloroquine (CQ) significantly inhibited HEp-2 cell proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner and induced apoptosis after 24 h in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, we found that the possible underlying molecular mechanism of PHN-induced autophagy might be through the AMPK/mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathway. Taken together, our study indicates that combining use of PHN and autophagy blockers may serve as a novel strategy in LSCC treatment.
Loss mechanism of the SISL and the experimental verifications
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Ma Kaixue
Published: May 2019

In this study, the loss mechanism of substrate integrated suspended line (SISL) is investigated and the experimental verification is given. The strategy to reduce the total circuit losses, including the radiation loss, the conductor loss, and the dielectric loss based on SISL platform, is investigated. For the three cases in the form of uniform transmission lines, their characteristic impedance, phase constant, and attenuation constant are simulated and compared. The influences caused by the height of the air cavity, the distance between the centre trace to the side wall, dielectric loss tangent, and metal conductivity are also investigated. Finally, the experimental verifications using uniform transmission lines are given.
A Single-Center Experience with a Pregnant Immigrant Population and Zika Virus Serologic Screening in New York City
Authors: Merriam Audrey A. , Nhan-Chang Chia-Ling , Huerta-Bogdan B. Isabel , Wapner Ronald , Gyamfi-Bannerman Cynthia
Published: May 2019

Objective Our institution is in an area of New York City with a large population of immigrants from Zika virus endemic areas. With the recent Zika virus outbreak, we sought to examine our center's experience with screening for Zika virus and outcomes among patients who tested positive for the disease during pregnancy.

Study Design We performed a chart review of all pregnant patients who tested positive (positive serum or urine polymerase chain reaction [PCR]) or presumed positive (immunoglobulin M [IgM] enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA] positive or IgM ELISA equivocal with positive plaque reduction neutralization test) for Zika virus. All tests were performed by the Department of Health (DOH) and followed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines in effect at the time of specimen collection. Testing of cord blood, placenta, and/or neonatal blood were/was performed by the DOH for New York County. Prenatal ultrasounds for fetal head size and surveillance for calcifications were performed by maternal–fetal medicine specialists. Infant head ultrasound results were included when available.

Results Between March 2016 and April 2017, 70 pregnant patients were positive or presumed positive for Zika infection during pregnancy. Of those, 16 women had positive urine or serum PCR and the remaining 54 were presumed positive. Among positive cases, five women tested positive via urine PCR only, nine women tested positive via serum PCR only, and two women had both positive urine and serum PCR. Fifteen of 67 infants (22%) born during the study period were born to mothers with positive urine or serum PCR testing. Sixty-five newborns were clinically normal with normal head measurements. Of the intracranial ultrasound performed, one infant had a grade 1 intraventricular hemorrhage, four had incidental choroid plexus cysts, and one had severe ventriculomegaly that was also noted antenatally. There were 2 positive and 15 equivocal infant serum IgM samples and 1 positive placental PCR from these pregnancies. There were four pregnancy terminations and two cases with fetal anomalies in this population that were split evenly between patients who tested positive and those who tested presumed positive for Zika virus during pregnancy.

Conclusion We found no differences in pregnancy or neonatal outcomes between women who tested positive and presumed positive for Zika virus during pregnancy. Testing of infants and placenta tissue after delivery was largely inconclusive. Improvement in testing for Zika virus infection is needed to determine which pregnancies are at risk for congenital anomalies. Further research is still needed to determine which children are at risk for poor neurodevelopmental outcomes related to Zika virus and how to best coordinate care among the immigrant population during a new disease epidemic.
Is Delaying Cord Clamping until Placenta Delivery Beneficial? Oxygen Saturation and Heart Rate Transition during the Initial 5 Minutes after Delivery in Indian Healthy Newborns
Authors: Mukherjee Suchandra , Bulsara Jignesh S. , Das Manoja Kumar , Waratakar Yogendra , Saha Anindya Kumar , Dubey Sunil , Mehta Pratima , Gupta Bini , Singh Arun K. ,   for Indian Delayed Cord Clamp Study Group
Published: May 2019

Objective This study aimed to compare the preductal oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) in newborns during the initial 5 minutes after birth with delayed cord clamping (DCC) and early cord clamping (ECC) practices at sea level.

Study Design This prospective observational study included newborns born at >34 weeks vaginally (Dharampur, Gujarat) or through caesarean section (CS) (Kolkata, West Bengal). In Dharampur, the newborns received ECC practice (8 weeks) followed by DCC practice (10 weeks). In Kolkata, the newborns received ECC practice only (8 weeks).

Results The newborns with DCC (n = 170) had significantly higher SpO2 (3–8%) throughout than those with ECC born either vaginally (n = 178) or through CS (n = 101). The newborns with DCC had slower rise in HR during the first 2 minutes than those with ECC. The 5th and 10th percentile values of SpO2 for newborns with DCC practice were higher than those with ECC practice.

Conclusion The trends of SpO2 and HR during the first 5 minutes after birth indicate a relatively smoother cardiopulmonary transition by delaying cord clamping till placental delivery compared with early clamping. The reference ranges can be used for Indian newborns born by uncomplicated vaginal delivery with DCC during the first 5 minutes.
Measurements of ultrafast dissociation in resonant inelastic x-ray scattering of water
Authors: Yamazoe Kosuke , Miyawaki Jun , Niwa Hideharu , Nilsson Anders , Harada Yoshihisa
Published: May 2019

There has been a discussion on the interpretation of the resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) spectra of liquid water in terms of either different structural environments or that core hole dynamics can generate well-resolved dissociative spectral components. We have used RIXS with high resolution in the OH stretch vibration energy part, at extremely high overtones going toward the continuum of full OH bond breakage, to identify the amount of dissociative contributions in the valence band RIXS spectra at different excitation energies. We observe that at low excitation energies, corresponding to population of states with strongly antibonding character, the valence band RIXS spectra have a large contribution from a well-resolved dissociative feature. Instead, at higher excitations, this spectral component diminishes and becomes a weak structure on the high-energy side of one of the spectral peaks related to the 1b1 state from tetrahedral configurations. This result brings both interpretations to be essential for the understanding of RIXS spectra of liquid water.
Development of an in situ diagnostic system for mapping the deposition distribution on plasma facing components of the HL-2M tokamak
Authors: Cai Laizhong , Wang Zhenzhong , Li Cong , Huang Xiangmei , Zhao Dongye , Ding Hongbin
Published: May 2019

The assessment of material deposition and fuel retention on Plasma Facing Components (PFCs) is of primary importance for the steady-state operations of future fusion devices. In this paper, an in situ diagnostic for mapping the deposition distribution (IMap) on a wide area of PFCs for HL-2M (Huan Liu Qi-2 Modification) is developed. The design, fabrication, integration, and lab test of the IMap have been implemented. This system is built with the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy technique which is an in situ diagnostic technique to determine the constituents and the depth profile of deposition compositions on PFCs. With a molybdenum reflection mirror inside the chamber and its manipulator, the IMap system can scan from the inner wall across the lower divertor to the outer middle plane. The system can be remotely controlled, and its optical lenses, mirrors, and fibers can be adjusted automatically when scanning over the PFCs. Therefore, the wall properties over a wide area of the vessel can be measured. All elements with the emission lines in the range of 380–850 nm can be analyzed, and the isotope species H and D can also be identified clearly with this diagnostic. Moreover, the depth profiles of the deposited materials can be determined, and the fuel retention on PFCs can be evaluated in situ. This gives a clear picture of the deposition and retention over the wall of HL-2M.
Elucidation of the pressure induced amorphization of tetrahydrofuran clathrate hydrate
Authors: Brant Carvalho Paulo H. B. , Mace Amber , Bull Craig L. , Funnell Nicholas P. , Tulk Chris A. , Andersson Ove , Häussermann Ulrich
Published: May 2019

The type II clathrate hydrate (CH) THF·17 H2O (THF = tetrahydrofuran) is known to amorphize on pressurization to ∼1.3 GPa in the temperature range 77–140 K. This seems to be related to the pressure induced amorphization (PIA) of hexagonal ice to high density amorphous (HDA) ice. Here, we probe the PIA of THF-d8 · 17 D2O (TDF-CD) at 130 K by in situ thermal conductivity and neutron diffraction experiments. Both methods reveal amorphization of TDF-CD between 1.1 and 1.2 GPa and densification of the amorphous state on subsequent heating from 130 to 170 K. The densification is similar to the transition of HDA to very-high-density-amorphous ice. The first diffraction peak (FDP) of the neutron structure factor function, S(Q), of amorphous TDF-CD at 130 K appeared split. This feature is considered a general phenomenon of the crystalline to amorphous transition of CHs and reflects different length scales for D-D and D-O correlations in the water network and the cavity structure around the guest. The maximum corresponding to water-water correlations relates to the position of the FDP of HDA ice at ∼1 GPa. Upon annealing, the different length scales for water-water and water-guest correlations equalize and the FDP in the S(Q) of the annealed amorph represents a single peak. The similarity of local water structures in amorphous CHs and amorphous ices at in situ conditions is confirmed from molecular dynamics simulations. In addition, these simulations show that THF guest molecules are immobilized and retain long-range correlations as in the crystal.
Polarization control in nitride quantum well light emitters enabled by bottom tunnel-junctions
Authors: Turski Henryk , Bharadwaj Shyam , Xing Huili (Grace) , Jena Debdeep
Published: May 2019

The frozen internal polarization-induced electric fields due to broken inversion symmetry in all conventional blue and green nitride semiconductor light-emitting semiconductor quantum well heterostructures point in a direction opposite to what is desired for efficient flow of electrons and holes. This state of affairs has persisted because of the desire to have p-type hole injectors on top of the quantum well active region. Because of the internal polarization fields in nitride heterostructures, there exist four permutations of doping and polarization for the realization of such light emitters. Which permutation is the most desirable for efficient light emission? In this work, we answer this question by demonstrating a fundamentally new approach toward efficient light emission with “bottom-tunnel junctions.” The bottom-tunnel junction design aligns the polarization fields in the desired direction in the quantum well while simultaneously eliminating the need for p-type contacts and allowing efficient current spreading. By preventing electron overshoot past quantum wells, it disables carrier recombination in undesired regions of the quantized heterostructures and opens up the possibility for new geometries of integrating and stacking multiple light emitters.
Observation of spin glass behavior in chiral Mn48Fe34Si18 with a β-Mn related structure
Authors: Kroder Johannes , Gooth Johannes , Schnelle Walter , Fecher Gerhard H. , Felser Claudia
Published: May 2019

The ternary silicide system Fe-Mn-Si exhibits several complex magnetic phases and the chemical similarity of Fe and Mn enables these two elements to be mutually substituted over a wide compositional range. Because this substitution results in chemical disorder and often causes competing magnetic exchange interactions, frustrated spin glass ordering is expected to occur for some Fe-Mn-Si phases. However, the observation of a spin glass state within these alloys has been elusive to date. This paper reports magnetization and ac susceptibility measurements on Mn48Fe34Si18. The compound crystallizes in a Mn3IrSi-type structure, which is closely related to that of β-Mn. Typical spin glass behavior is observed at low temperatures. This comprises a bifurcation of field-cooled and zero-field-cooled magnetization, a displacement of the field-cooled hysteresis loop, magnetic relaxation, a memory effect, and a sharp, frequency-dependent cusp in the ac susceptibility at the freezing temperature. Mn48Fe34Si18 is demonstrated to be a canonical spin glass.
High-performance planar-type electron source based on a graphene-oxide-semiconductor structure
Authors: Murakami Katsuhisa , Miyaji Joji , Furuya Ryo , Adachi Manabu , Nagao Masayoshi , Neo Yoichiro , Takao Yoshinori , Yamada Yoichi , Sasaki Masahiro , Mimura Hidenori
Published: May 2019

A graphene-oxide-semiconductor (GOS) planar-type electron source was fabricated by direct synthesis of graphene on an oxide layer via low-pressure chemical vapor deposition. It achieved a maximum electron emission efficiency of 32.1% by suppressing the electron inelastic scattering within the topmost gate electrode using a graphene electrode. In addition, an electron emission current density of 100 mA/cm2 was observed at an electron emission efficiency of 16.2%. The electron energy spread was well fitted to Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution, which indicates that the emitted electrons are the thermally equilibrium state within the electron source. The full-width at half-maximum energy spread of the emitted electrons was approximately 1.1 eV. The electron emission efficiency did not deteriorate after more than 42 h of direct current operation. Thus, the GOS planar-type electron source has the potential to be an excellent electron gun for electron microscopy.
Active Janus colloids at chemically structured surfaces
Authors: Uspal W. E. , Popescu M. N. , Dietrich S. , Tasinkevych M.
Published: May 2019

If catalytically active Janus particles are dispersed in certain liquid solutions, they can create a gradient in the chemical composition of this solution along their surfaces, as well as along any nearby confining surfaces. This gradient drives self-propulsion via a self-phoretic mechanism, while the compositional gradient along a wall gives rise to chemiosmosis, which additionally contributes to self-motility. In this study, we analyze theoretically the dynamics of an active colloid near chemically patterned walls. We use a point-particle approximation combined with a multipole expansion in order to discuss the effects of pattern geometry and chemical contrast on the particle trajectories. In particular, we consider planar walls patterned with chemical steps and stripes. We investigate in detail the changes in the topology of the corresponding phase portraits upon varying the chemical contrast and the stripe width.
Nanoelectrokinetic bufferchannel-less radial preconcentrator and online extractor by tunable ion depletion layer
Authors: Lee Sangjun , Park Sungmin , Kim Wonseok , Moon Suhong , Kim Ho-Young , Lee Hyomin , Kim Sung Jae
Published: May 2019

Among various preconcentration strategies using nanofluidic platforms, a nanoscale electrokinetic phenomenon called ion concentration polarization (ICP) has been extensively utilized due to several advantages such as high preconcentration factor and no need of complex buffer exchange process. However, conventional ICP preconcentrator had difficulties in the recovery of preconcentrated sample and complicated buffer channels. To overcome these, bufferchannel-less radial micro/nanofluidic preconcentrator was developed in this work. Radially arranged microchannel can maximize the micro/nano membrane interface so that the samples were preconcentrated from each microchannel. All of preconcentrated plugs moved toward the center pipette tip and can be easily collected by just pulling out the tip installed at the center reservoir. For a simple and cost-effective fabrication, a commercial printer was used to print the nanoporous membrane as “Nafion-junction device.” Various analytes such as polystyrene particle, fluorescent dye, and dsDNA were preconcentrated and extracted with the recovery ratio of 85.5%, 79.0%, and 51.3%, respectively. Furthermore, we used a super inkjet printer to print the silver electrode instead of nanoporous membrane to preconcentrate either type of charged analytes as “printed-electrode device.” A Faradaic reaction was used as the main mechanism, and we successfully demonstrated the preconcentration of either negatively or positively charged analytes. The presented bufferchannel-less radial preconcentrator would be utilized as a practical and handy platform for analyzing low-abundant molecules.
Quantum information-based analysis of electron-deficient bonds
Authors: Brandejs Jan , Veis Libor , Szalay Szilárd , Barcza Gergely , Pittner Jiří , Legeza Örs
Published: May 2019

Recently, the correlation theory of the chemical bond was developed, which applies concepts of quantum information theory for the characterization of chemical bonds, based on the multiorbital correlations within the molecule. Here, for the first time, we extend the use of this mathematical toolbox for the description of electron-deficient bonds. We start by verifying the theory on the textbook example of a molecule with three-center two-electron bonds, namely, diborane(6). We then show that the correlation theory of the chemical bond is able to properly describe the bonding situation in more exotic molecules which have been synthesized and characterized only recently, in particular, the diborane molecule with four hydrogen atoms [diborane(4)] and a neutral zerovalent s-block beryllium complex, whose surprising stability was attributed to a strong three-center two-electron π bond stretching across the C–Be–C core. Our approach is of high importance especially in the light of a constant chase after novel compounds with extraordinary properties where the bonding is expected to be unusual.
Ionized, electron-attached, and excited states of molecular systems with spin–orbit coupling: Two-component GW and Bethe–Salpeter implementations
Authors: Holzer Christof , Klopper Wim
Published: May 2019

We have implemented and applied the GW method and the static screened Bethe–Salpeter equation (BSE) for calculating linear-response properties for quasirelativistic molecular systems. Our ansatz is based on a two-component (2c) scheme that includes spin–orbit coupling as well as scalar relativistic effects. Efficient, state-of-the-art approaches including the analytic continuation (employing Padé approximants, scaling as N 4 with system size N ) and contour deformation schemes are presented to obtain the required 2c quasirelativistic GW quasiparticle energies. Screened exchange contributions are computed within the resolution-of-the-identity approximation, and working equations for the 2c GW/BSE method are given. The performance of the 2c GW/BSE method is assessed, and results are compared to other methods and experimental data. A robust iterative scheme for solving the eigenvalue problems occurring in the 2c GW/BSE and hybrid time-dependent density functional theories is presented.
An analytical theory for propagation in graphene
Authors: Dooley Phil
Published: May 2019

A new approach to modeling scattering within the hexagonal lattice of graphene produces a theory that could be useful for predicting graphene’s properties, and perhaps for topological insulators as well.
Direct visualization of cAMP signaling in primary cilia reveals up-regulation of ciliary GPCR activity following Hedgehog activation
Authors: Jiang Jason Y. , Falcone Jeffrey L. , Curci Silvana , Hofer Aldebaran M.
Published: May 2019

Significance

The primary cilium, a small organelle essential to normal development, has recently been thrust into the limelight owing to its involvement in adult disease states such as cancer, obesity, neurodegeneration, and polycystic kidney disease. Here we developed optical approaches to interrogate the function of receptors that work through cAMP-PKA signaling within the primary cilium of live cells. Our data provide a key piece of the puzzle concerning the way in which localized cAMP signals regulate the Hedgehog pathway, another ciliary signaling system with emerging roles in multiple disease processes.
NAD tagSeq reveals that NAD
+
-capped RNAs are mostly produced from a large number of protein-coding genes in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Hailei , Zhong Huan , Zhang Shoudong , Shao Xiaojian , Ni Min , Cai Zongwei , Chen Xuemei , Xia Yiji
Published: May 2019

The 5′ end of a eukaryotic mRNA transcript generally has a 7-methylguanosine (m
7
G) cap that protects mRNA from degradation and mediates almost all other aspects of gene expression. Some RNAs in
Escherichia coli
, yeast, and mammals were recently found to contain an NAD
+
cap. Here, we report the development of the method NAD tagSeq for transcriptome-wide identification and quantification of NAD
+
-capped RNAs (NAD-RNAs). The method uses an enzymatic reaction and then a click chemistry reaction to label NAD-RNAs with a synthetic RNA tag. The tagged RNA molecules can be enriched and directly sequenced using the Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology. NAD tagSeq can allow more accurate identification and quantification of NAD-RNAs, as well as reveal the sequences of whole NAD-RNA transcripts using single-molecule RNA sequencing. Using NAD tagSeq, we found that NAD-RNAs in
Arabidopsis
were produced by at least several thousand genes, most of which are protein-coding genes, with the majority of these transcripts coming from <200 genes. For some
Arabidopsis
genes, over 5% of their transcripts were NAD capped. Gene ontology terms overrepresented in the 2,000 genes that produced the highest numbers of NAD-RNAs are related to photosynthesis, protein synthesis, and responses to cytokinin and stresses. The NAD-RNAs in
Arabidopsis
generally have the same overall sequence structures as the canonical m
7
G-capped mRNAs, although most of them appear to have a shorter 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR). The identification and quantification of NAD-RNAs and revelation of their sequence features can provide essential steps toward understanding the functions of NAD-RNAs.
The Predictive Validity of the HCR20v3 within Scottish Forensic Inpatient Facilities: A Closer Look at Key Dynamic Variables
Authors: Smith Kerry Johanna , O’Rourke Suzanne , Macpherson Gary
Published: May 2019

The predictive validity of the HCR-20v3 has not been demonstrated in a UK forensic inpatient population. In particular, the validity of insight and positive symptoms of psychosis, two clinical risk factors within the HCR-20v3, require further evidence of their validity in this patient group. In this pseudo-prospective study of N = 167 forensic inpatients, the predictive validity of the HCR-20v3 for violence was examined over the course of a 2–12 month follow-up. The predictive validity of insight and positive symptoms were examined in a sub-sample of n = 135. Baseline data were extracted from case-files with violent incidents collected prospectively following HCR-20v3 publication. HCR-20v3 total, clinical and risk management subscale scores significantly predicted violence and physical violence specifically. For violence overall, the clinical subscale demonstrated strongest predictive validity. Post-hoc analyses indicated that even when combined with the risk management subscale, itself a significant predictor, the clinical subscale remained the strongest predictor of violence. Subgroup analyses indicated positive symptoms significantly predicted physical violence, while poor insight did not. Forensic inpatient resources should be focused on the risk assessment and management of the HCR-20v3 clinical subscale, with particular emphasis on positive symptoms which show a robust relationship with violence.
Scribble, Erbin, and Lano redundantly regulate epithelial polarity and apical adhesion complex
Authors: Choi Jongho , Troyanovsky Regina B. , Indra Indrajyoti , Mitchell Brian J. , Troyanovsky Sergey M.
Published: May 2019

The basolateral protein Scribble (Scrib), a member of the LAP protein family, is essential for epithelial apicobasal polarity (ABP) in Drosophila. However, a conserved function for this protein in mammals is unclear. Here we show that the crucial role for Scrib in ABP has remained obscure due to the compensatory function of two other LAP proteins, Erbin and Lano. A combined Scrib/Erbin/Lano knockout disorganizes the cell–cell junctions and the cytoskeleton. It also results in mislocalization of several apical (Par6, aPKC, and Pals1) and basolateral (Llgl1 and Llgl2) identity proteins. These defects can be rescued by the conserved “LU” region of these LAP proteins. Structure–function analysis of this region determined that the so-called LAPSDb domain is essential for basolateral targeting of these proteins, while the LAPSDa domain is essential for supporting the membrane basolateral identity and binding to Llgl. In contrast to the key role in Drosophila, mislocalization of Llgl proteins does not appear to be critical in the scrib ABP phenotype.
Global soil acidification impacts on belowground processes
Authors: Meng Cheng , Tian Dashuan , Zeng Hui , Li Zhaolei , Yi Chuixiang , Niu Shuli
Published: May 2019

With continuous nitrogen (N) enrichment and sulfur (S) deposition, soil acidification has accelerated and become a global environmental issue. However, a full understanding of the general pattern of ecosystem belowground processes in response to soil acidification due to the impacting factors remains elusive. We conducted a meta-analysis of soil acidification impacts on belowground functions using 304 observations from 49 independent studies, mainly including soil cations, soil nutrient, respiration, root and microbial biomass. Our results show that acid addition significantly reduced soil pH by 0.24 on average, with less pH decrease in forest than non-forest ecosystems. The response ratio of soil pH was positively correlated with site precipitation and temperature, but negatively with initial soil pH. Soil base cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+) decreased while non-base cations (Al3+, Fe3+) increased with soil acidification. Soil respiration, fine root biomass, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen were significantly reduced by 14.7%, 19.1%, 9.6% and 12.1%, respectively, under acid addition. These indicate that soil carbon processes are sensitive to soil acidification. Overall, our meta-analysis suggests a strong negative impact of soil acidification on belowground functions, with the potential to suppress soil carbon emission. It also arouses our attention to the toxic effects of soil ions on terrestrial ecosystems.
Stochastically modeling the projected impacts of climate change on rainfed and irrigated US crop yields
Authors: Zhu Xiao , Troy Tara J , Devineni Naresh
Published: May 2019

Food demands are rising due to an increasing population with changing food preferences, placing pressure on agricultural production. Additionally, climate extremes have recently highlighted the vulnerability of the agricultural system to climate variability. This study seeks to fill two important gaps in current knowledge: how irrigation impacts the large-scale response of crops to varying climate conditions and how we can explicitly account for uncertainty in yield response to climate. To address these, we developed a statistical model to quantitatively estimate historical and future impacts of climate change and irrigation on US county-level crop yields with uncertainty explicitly treated. Historical climate and crop yield data for 1970–2009 were used over different growing regions to fit the model, and five CMIP5 climate projections were applied to simulate future crop yield response to climate. Maize and spring wheat yields are projected to experience decreasing trends with all models in agreement. Winter wheat yields in the Northwest will see an increasing trend. Results for soybean and winter wheat in the South are more complicated, as irrigation can change the trend in projected yields. The comparison between projected crop yield time series for rainfed and irrigated cases indicates that irrigation can buffer against climate variability that could lead to negative yield anomalies. Through trend analysis of the predictors, the trend in crop yield is mainly driven by projected trends in temperature-related indices, and county-level trend analysis shows regional differences are negligible. This framework provides estimates of the impact of climate and irrigation on US crop yields for the 21st century that account for the full uncertainty of climate variables and the range of crop response. The results of this study can contribute to decision making about crop choice and water use in an uncertain future climate.
Clinical and Histopathologic Predictors of Disaccharidase Deficiency in Duodenal Biopsy Specimens
Authors: Reed Robyn C , Pacheco M Cristina
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Disaccharidase (DS) activity in duodenal biopsy specimens is the gold standard for diagnosing DS deficiency. We investigated strategies to reduce the need for DS testing and whether clinical or histopathologic factors predict DS deficiency.

Methods

A retrospective chart review analyzed 1,678 DS results in children, biopsy indication(s), and duodenal histopathology.

Results

One or more DSs were abnormal in 42.8%. Sufficient lactase predicted sucrase, palatinase, and maltase sufficiency (negative predictive value 97.7%). Three patients had sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (0.2%). DS deficiency was more common in biopsy specimens for positive celiac serology (78.0%). Villous blunting, intraepithelial lymphocytosis, and active inflammation predicted DS deficiency; a combination of any two had an 81.4% positive predictive value.

Conclusions

Utilization could be reduced by only testing cases with normal duodenal histopathology and ongoing clinical suspicion for DS deficiency after reviewing pathology. In cases with suspected celiac disease and/or mucosal injury, DS deficiency is common and likely secondary, limiting test utility.
Are drought resistance strategies associated with life history strategy? A commentary on: ‘Arabidopsis species deploy distinct strategies to cope with drought stress’
Authors: Kooyers Nicholas
Published: May 2019

This article comments on:

M. Bouzid, F. He, G. Schmitz, R. E. Häusler, A. P. M. Weber, T. Mettler-Altmann and J. de Meaux. 2019. Arabidopsis species deploy distinct strategies to cope with drought stress. Annals of Botany 124(1): 27–40.