bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-scale metabolic models of Microbacterium species isolated from a high altitude desert environment
Authors: Mandakovic Dinka , Cintolesi Ángela , Maldonado Jonathan , Mendoza Sebastián N. , Aïte Méziane , Gaete Alexis , Saitua Francisco , Allende Miguel , Cambiazo Verónica , Siegel Anne , Maass Alejandro , González Mauricio , Latorre Mauricio
Published: March 2020

The Atacama Desert is the most arid desert on Earth, focus of important research activities related to microbial biodiversity studies. In this context, metabolic characterization of arid soil bacteria is crucial to understand their survival strategies under extreme environmental stress. We investigated whether strain-specific features of two Microbacterium species were involved in the metabolic ability to tolerate/adapt to local variations within an extreme desert environment. Using an integrative systems biology approach we have carried out construction and comparison of genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) of two Microbacterium sp., CGR1 and CGR2, previously isolated from physicochemically contrasting soil sites in the Atacama Desert. Despite CGR1 and CGR2 belong to different phylogenetic clades, metabolic pathways and attributes are highly conserved in both strains. However, comparison of the GEMs showed significant differences in the connectivity of specific metabolites related to pH tolerance and CO2 production. The latter is most likely required to handle acidic stress through decarboxylation reactions. We observed greater GEM connectivity within Microbacterium sp. CGR1 compared to CGR2, which is correlated with the capacity of CGR1 to tolerate a wider pH tolerance range. Both metabolic models predict the synthesis of pigment metabolites (β-carotene), observation validated by HPLC experiments. Our study provides a valuable resource to further investigate global metabolic adaptations of bacterial species to grow in soils with different abiotic factors within an extreme environment.
Polymorphic Aβ42 fibrils adopt similar secondary structure but differ in cross-strand side chain stacking interactions within the same β-sheet
Authors: Wang Hongsu , Duo Lan , Hsu Frederick , Xue Christine , Lee Yoon Kyung , Guo Zhefeng
Published: March 2020

Formation of polymorphic amyloid fibrils is a common feature in neurodegenerative diseases involving protein aggregation. In Alzheimer’s disease, different fibril structures may be associated with different clinical sub-types. Structural basis of fibril polymorphism is thus important for understanding the role of amyloid fibrils in the pathogenesis and progression of these diseases. Here we studied two types of Aβ42 fibrils prepared under quiescent and agitated conditions. Quiescent Aβ42 fibrils adopt a long and twisted morphology, while agitated fibrils are short and straight, forming large bundles via lateral association. EPR studies of these two types of Aβ42 fibrils show that the secondary structure is similar in both fibril polymorphs. At the same time, agitated Aβ42 fibrils show stronger interactions between spin labels across the full range of the Aβ42 sequence, suggesting a more tightly packed structure. Our data suggest that cross-strand side chain packing interactions within the same β-sheet may play a critical role in the formation of polymorphic fibrils.
Host density and habitat structure influence host contact rates and Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans transmission
Authors: Malagon Daniel A. , Melara Luis A. , Prosper Olivia F. , Lenhart Suzanne , Carter Edward Davis , Fordyce J. A. , Peterson Anna C. , Miller Debra L. , Gray Matthew J.
Published: March 2020

Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans(Bsal) is an emerging invasive pathogen that is highly pathogenic to salamander species. Modeling infection dynamics in this system can facilitate proactive efforts to mitigate this pathogen's impact on North American species. Given its widespread distribution and high abundance, the eastern newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) has the potential to significantly influenceBsalepidemiology. We designed experiments to 1) estimate contact rates given different host densities and habitat structure and 2) estimate the probability of transmission from infected to susceptible individuals. Using parameter estimates from data generated during these experiments, we modeled infection and disease outcomes for a population of newts using a system of differential equations. We found that host contact rates were density-dependent, and that adding habitat structure reduced contacts. The probability ofBsaltransmission given contact between newts was very high (>90%) even at early stages of infection. Our simulations show rapid transmission ofBsalamong individuals following pathogen introduction, with infection prevalence exceeding 90% within one month and >80% mortality of newts in three months. Estimates of basic reproductive rate (R0) ofBsalfor eastern newts were 1.9 and 3.2 for complex and simple habitats, respectively. Although reducing host density and increasing habitat complexity might decrease transmission, these management strategies may be ineffective at stoppingBsalinvasion in eastern newt populations due to this species’ hyper-susceptibility.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the CBF/DREB1 gene family in lettuce
Authors: Park Sunchung , Shi Ainong , Mou Beiquan
Published: March 2020

The C-repeat binding factor (CBF)/dehydration-responsive element binding (DREB1) proteins play a prominent role in freezing tolerance and are highly conserved in higher plants. Here we performed a genome-wide search of the CBF/DREB1 gene family in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and identified 14 members of the family with one member gene containing a non-sense mutation within the AP2 DNA-binding domain. A comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the CBF/DREB1 family members in 20 plant species from the Asterid or Rosid clade provided evidence that tandem duplication played an important role in the expansion of the CBF/DREB1 family. Expression analysis showed that twelve of the lettuce CBF genes were responsive to low temperature (4 °C), and that three and six of them could also be responsive to salt and heat stresses, respectively. Unlike Arabidopsis thaliana whose members of the CBF/DREB1 family respond only to a particular stress, lettuce CBFs provide wider protection from combinations of abiotic stresses. A global transcriptome analysis revealed distinctive temporal expression patterns among the cold-regulated genes in lettuce plants exposed to low temperature. Genes induced throughout the cold treatment are enriched in functions associated with protection from UV and high-light intensity and the genes suppressed after 7 days of cold exposure are enriched in photosynthesis-associated functions. These results provide insight into the molecular evolutionary properties of the CBF/DREB1 gene family in lettuce and a reference for genetic improvement of the lettuce response to cold acclimation.
Characterisation of the dynamic nature of lipids throughout the lifespan of genetically identical female and male Daphnia magna
Authors: Constantinou Julia K. , Southam Andrew D. , Kvist Jouni , Jones Martin R. , Viant Mark R. , Mirbahai Leda
Published: March 2020

Lipids play a significant role in regulation of health and disease. To enhance our understanding of the role of lipids in regulation of lifespan and healthspan additional studies are required. Here, UHPLC-MS/MS lipidomics was used to measure dynamic changes in lipid composition as a function of age and gender in genetically identical male and female Daphnia magna with different average lifespans. We demonstrate statistically significant age-related changes in triglycerides (TG), diglycerides (DG), phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, ceramide and sphingomyelin lipid groups, for example, in males, 17.04% of TG lipid species decline with age whilst 37.86% increase in relative intensity with age. In females, 23.16% decrease and 25.31% increase in relative intensity with age. Most interestingly, the rate and direction of change can differ between genetically identical female and male Daphnia magna, which could be the cause and/or the consequence of the different average lifespans between the two genetically identical genders. This study provides a benchmark dataset to understand how lipids alter as a function of age in genetically identical female and male species with different average lifespan and ageing rate.
Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential of Angelica dahurica and Rheum officinale extract accelerates wound healing in Staphylococcus aureus-infected wounds
Authors: Yang Wan-Ting , Ke Chun-Yen , Wu Wen-Tien , Tseng Yi-Hsiung , Lee Ru-Ping
Published: March 2020

Wound infection is a serious clinical problem, and the most common infection-causing bacteria are Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Angelica dahurica and Rheum officinale extract (ARE) was reported to accelerate excisional wound healing in rats. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of ARE on bacterial-infected wounds. Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: normal saline (NS), ARE, and biomycin ointment (BO). Full-thickness dorsal excisions in all the rats were infected with 108 colony-forming units of S. aureus; the treatments were applied once daily for 7 days. Results showed that the residual wound area in ARE group was smaller than those in NS and BO groups. TBCs on wound sites gradually decreased in ARE and BO groups. The body temperature and plasma inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) levels increased after bacterial infection at 24 h in all groups. After treatment, BT and inflammatory cytokines levels decreased in ARE group. Histological observations showed ARE group exhibited earlier scab formation, denser dermal granulation tissue, thicker epidermis, and more angiogenesis markers than the other groups. In conclusion, ARE accelerated wound healing in S. aureus-infected wounds. We proposed ARE exhibited potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and stimulated angiogenesis, thus improving healing in infected wounds.
Investigating LGALS3BP/90 K glycoprotein in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with neurological diseases
Authors: Costa Júlia , Pronto-Laborinho Ana , Pinto Susana , Gromicho Marta , Bonucci Sara , Tranfield Erin , Correia Catarina , Alexandre Bruno M. , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: March 2020

Galectin-3 binding protein (LGALS3BP or 90 K) is a secreted glycoprotein found in human body fluids. Deregulated levels were observed in cancer and infection and its study in neurological diseases is more recent. Here, we have investigated 90 K from human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, n = 35) and other neurological diseases (n = 23). CSF was fractionated by ultrafiltration/size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and eluted fractions were analysed by complementary techniques including immunoblotting, electron microscopy and nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A fraction of 90 K appeared as nanoparticles of irregular shape with heterogeneous dimensions of 15–60 nm that co-eluted with extracellular vesicles in SEC. Median levels of 90 K quantified by ELISA were not different between ALS patients (215.8 ng/ml) and controls (213.3 ng/ml) in contrast with the benchmark biomarker for ALS phosphoneurofilament heavy chain (1750 and 345 pg/ml, respectively). A multiregression model supported age is the only independent predictor of 90 K level in both groups (p < 0.05). Significant correlation was found between 90 K levels and age for the ALS group (r = 0.366, p = 0.031) and for all subjects (r = 0.392, p = 0.003). In conclusion, this study unveils the presence of 90 K-containing nanoparticles in human CSF and opens novel perspectives to further investigate 90 K as potential aging marker.
Scaling Behavior of Quasi-One-Dimensional Vortex Avalanches in Superconducting Films
Authors: Qviller A. J. , Qureishy T. , Xu Y. , Suo H. , Mozhaev P. B. , Hansen J. B. , Vestgården J. I. , Johansen T. H. , Mikheenko P.
Published: March 2020

Scaling behaviour of dynamically driven vortex avalanches in superconducting YBa2Cu3O7−δ films deposited on tilted crystalline substrates has been observed using quantitative magneto-optical imaging. Two films with different tilt angles are characterized by the probability distributions of avalanche size in terms of the number of moving vortices. It is found in both samples that these distributions follow power-laws over up to three decades, and have exponents ranging between 1.0 and 1.4. The distributions also show clear finite-size scaling, when the system size is defined by the depth of the flux penetration front – a signature of self-organized criticality. A scaling relation between the avalanche size exponent and the fractal dimension, previously derived theoretically from conservation of the number of magnetic vortices in the stationary state and shown in numerical simulations, is here shown to be satisfied also experimentally.
Duck plague virus gE serves essential functions during the virion final envelopment through influence capsids budding into the cytoplasmic vesicles
Authors: Liu Tian , Wang Mingshu , Cheng Anchun , Jia Renyong , Yang Qiao , Wu Ying , Liu Mafeng , Zhao Xinxin , Chen Shun , Zhang Shaqiu , Zhu Dekang , Tian Bin , Rehman Mujeeb Ur , Liu Yunya , Yu Yanling , Zhang Ling , Pan Leichang , Chen Xiaoyue
Published: March 2020

Duck plague virus (DPV), a member of the alphaherpesviruses subfamily, causes massive ducks death and results in a devastating hit to duck industries in China. It is of great significance for us to analyze the functions of DPV genes for controlling the outbreak of duck plague. Thus, glycoproteins E (gE) of DPV, which requires viral cell-to-cell spreading and the final envelopment in herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and pseudorabies virus (PRV), was chosen herein. The gE mutant virus BAC-CHv-ΔgE was constructed by using a markerless two-step Red recombination system implemented on the DPV genome cloned into a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC). Viral plaques on duck embryo fibroblast (DEF) cells of BAC-CHv-ΔgE were on average approximately 60% smaller than those produced by BAC-CHv virus. Viral replication kinetics showed that BAC-CHv-ΔgE grew to lower titers than BAC-CHv virus did in DEF cells. Electron microscopy confirmed that deleting of DPV gE resulted in a large number of capsids accumulating around vesicles and very few of them could bud into vesicles. The drastic inhibition of virion formation in the absence of the DPV gE indicated that it played an important role in virion morphogenesis before the final envelopment of intracytoplasmic nucleocapsids.
Western North Pacific Tropical Cyclone Activity in 2018: A Season of Extremes
Authors: Gao Si , Zhu Langfeng , Zhang Wei , Shen Xinyong
Published: March 2020

The 2018 tropical cyclone (TC) season over the western North Pacific (WNP) underwent two extreme situations: 18 TCs observed during June–August (JJA) and ranked the second most active summer in the satellite era; only 5 TCs that occurred during September–October (SO), making it the most inactive period since the late 1970s. Here we attribute the two extreme situations based on observational analyses and numerical experiments. The extremely active TC activity and northward shift of TC genesis during JJA of 2018 can be attributed to the WNP anomalous low-level cyclone, which is due primarily to El Niño Modoki and secondarily to the positive phase of the Pacific Meridional Mode (PMM). Overall, the extremely inactive TC activity during SO of 2018 is due to the absence of TC formation over the South China Sea and Philippine Sea, which can be attributed to the in-situ anomalous low-level anticyclone associated with the positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole, although the positive PMM phase and El Niño Modoki still hold.
Evaluation of Stratiolaelaps scimitus (Acari: Laelapidae) for controlling the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Tylenchida: Heteroderidae)
Authors: Yang Si-Hua , Wang Dan , Chen Chun , Xu Chun-Ling , Xie Hui
Published: March 2020

Root-knot nematodes are one of the most harmful plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs). In this paper, the predation of Stratiolaelaps scimitus against Meloidogyne incognita was tested in an individual arena, and the control efficiency of the mite on the nematode in the water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) rhizosphere was studied with a pot experiment. The results showed that S. scimitus could develop normally and complete its life cycle by feeding on second-stage juveniles of M. incognita (Mi-J2). The consumption rate of a 24 h starving female mite on Mi-J2 increased with the increase of prey density at 25 °C. Among the starvation treatments, the nematode consumption rate of a female mite starved for 96 h at 25 °C was highest; and among temperature treatments, the maximum consumption rate of a 24 h starving female mite on Mi-J2 was at 28 °C. The number of M. incognita in the spinach rhizosphere could be reduced effectively by releasing S. scimitus into rhizosphere soil, and 400 mites per pot was the optimum releasing density in which the numbers of root knots and egg masses decreased by 50.9% and 62.8%, respectively. Though we have gained a greater understanding of S. scimitus as a predator of M. incognita, the biocontrol of M. incognita using S. scimitus under field conditions remains unknown and requires further study.
Drug misuse, tobacco smoking, alcohol and other social determinants of tuberculosis in UK-born adults in England: a community-based case-control study
Authors: Nguipdop-Djomo Patrick , Rodrigues Laura C. , Smith Peter G. , Abubakar Ibrahim , Mangtani Punam
Published: March 2020

Addressing social determinants of tuberculosis (TB) is essential to achieve elimination, including in low-incidence settings. We measured the association between socio-economic status and intermediate social determinants of health (SDHs, including drug misuse, tobacco smoking and alcohol), and TB, taking into account their clustering in individuals. We conducted a case-control study in 23–38 years old UK-born White adults with first tuberculosis episode, and randomly selected age and sex frequency-matched community controls. Data was collected on education, household overcrowding, tobacco smoking, alcohol and drugs use, and history of homelessness and prison. Analyses were done using logistic regression models, informed by a formal theoretical causal framework (Directed Acyclic Graph). 681 TB cases and 1183 controls were recruited. Tuberculosis odds were four times higher in subjects with education below GCSE O-levels, compared to higher education (OR = 3.94; 95%CI: 2.74, 5.67), after adjusting for other TB risk factors (age, sex, BCG-vaccination and stays ≥3 months in Africa/Asia). When simultaneously accounting for respective SDHs, higher tuberculosis risk was independently associated with tobacco smoking, drugs use (especially injectable drugs OR = 5.67; 95%CI: 2.68, 11.98), homelessness and area-level deprivation. Population Attributable Fraction estimates suggested that tobacco and class-A drug use were, respectively, responsible for 18% and 15% of TB cases in this group. Our findings suggest that socio-economic deprivation remains a driver of tuberculosis in England, including through drugs misuse, tobacco smoking, and homelessness. These findings further support the integration of health and social services in high-risk young adults to improve TB control efforts.
Understanding of copolymers containing pyridine and selenophene simultaneously and their polarity conversion in transistors
Authors: Kang So-Huei , Han Myeonggeun , Cho Yongjoon , Hong Jisu , Heo Seongmin , Jeong Seonghun , Noh Yong-Young , Yang Changduk
Published: March 2020

Two n-type pyridine and selenophene-containing polymers were synthesized and the structure–property relationships were investigated, followed by polarity switching from ambipolarity to unipolar characteristics via the doping method.
Intrinsic chemical reactivity of solid-electrolyte interphase components in silicon–lithium alloy anode batteries probed by FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Pekarek Ryan T. , Affolter Alec , Baranowski Lauryn L. , Coyle Jaclyn , Hou Tingzheng , Sivonxay Eric , Smith Brenda A. , McAuliffe Rebecca D. , Persson Kristin A. , Key Baris , Apblett Christopher , Veith Gabriel M. , Neale Nathan R.
Published: March 2020

The chemical reactivity of silicon surface species with LiPF6/carbonate electrolyte are detailed via FTIR spectroscopy and verified by MD/DFPD simulations.
Evaluation of segmented non-target data acquisition (SWATH/vDIA) in a QToF and QOrbitrap for pesticide residue analysis
Authors: Rajski Łukasz , Beraza Iciar , Gómez Ramos María José , Ferrer Carmen , Fernández-Alba Amadeo R.
Published: March 2020

Two high-resolution instruments (a QToF and a QOrbitrap) were used to evaluate a segmented non-target MS2 (SWATH/vDIA) acquisition for pesticide residue analysis.
A fluorinated low-molecular-weight PEI/HIF-1α shRNA polyplex system for hemangioma therapy
Authors: Guo Xiaoshuang , Yuan Zihan , Xu Yang , Wei Minyan , Fang Zhiwei , Yuan Wei-En
Published: March 2020

RNAi technology targeting HIF-1α could benefit hemangioma therapy effectively and FPEI polyplexes which could inhibit the expression of HIF-1α at the translational level can provide a practicable strategy for clinical hemangioma treatment in the future.
Tunable in-plane thermal conductivity of a single PEDOT:PSS nanotube
Authors: Lee Hye Jeong , Shin Hosun , Anoop Gopinathan , Yoo Tae Jin , So Soonsung , Ryu Jeongjae , Lee Byoung Hun , Song Jae Yong , Lee Eunji , Hong Seungbum , Lee Joo-Hyoung , Jo Ji Young
Published: March 2020

A strategy to directly measure the in-plane thermal conductivity of PEDOT:PSS nanotube (NT) using a micro-device is presented. We tuned the in-plane thermal conductivity of PEDOT:PSS NT in a wide range between 0.19 to 1.92 W·m−1·K−1.
Room-temperature developed flexible biomemristor with ultralow switching voltage for array learning
Authors: Wang Tian-Yu , Meng Jia-Lin , He Zhen-Yu , Chen Lin , Zhu Hao , Sun Qing-Qing , Ding Shi-Jin , Zhou Peng , Zhang David Wei
Published: March 2020

A flexible biomemristor fabricated at room temperature with ultralow switching voltage and array learning capability.
Advanced functional polymer materials
Authors: Wang Kaojin , Amin Kamran , An Zesheng , Cai Zhengxu , Chen Hong , Chen Hongzheng , Dong Yuping , Feng Xiao , Fu Weiqiang , Gu Jiabao , Han Yanchun , Hu Doudou , Hu Rongrong , Huang Die , Huang Fei , Huang Feihe , Huang Yuzhang , Jin Jian , Jin Xin , Li Qianqian , Li Tengfei , Li Zhen , Li Zhibo , Liu Jiangang , Liu Jing , Liu Shiyong , Peng Huisheng , Qin Anjun , Qing Xin , Shen Youqing , Shi Jianbing , Sun Xuemei , Tong Bin , Wang Bo , Wang Hu , Wang Lixiang , Wang Shu , Wei Zhixiang , Xie Tao , Xu Chunye , Xu Huaping , Xu Zhi-Kang , Yang Bai , Yu Yanlei , Zeng Xuan , Zhan Xiaowei , Zhang Guangzhao , Zhang Jie , Zhang Ming Qiu , Zhang Xian-Zheng , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhao Changsheng , Zhao Weifeng , Zhou Yongfeng , Zhou Zhuxian , Zhu Jintao , Zhu Xinyuan , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: March 2020

This review presents the recent developments in the research hotspots of advanced functional polymers; their concepts, design strategies, and applications are briefly discussed.
RhIII-Catalyzed one-pot cascade synthesis of quinazolines with N-alkoxyamide as an amidating reagent
Authors: Xu Hui-Bei , Zhu Yan-Ying , Yang Jia-Hui , Chai Xin-Yue , Dong Lin
Published: March 2020

Novel and efficient rhodium(iii)-catalyzed C–H bond activation and tandem annulation for the synthesis of structurally complex quinazolines have been successfully developed.
One-pot chemoselective domino condensation to form a fused pyrrolo–pyrazino–indolizine framework: discovery of novel AIE molecules
Authors: Li Jinbiao , Zhang Shuaizhong , Zou Hongbin
Published: March 2020

A fused pyrrolo–pyrazino–indolizine (5-6-6-5) framework with excellent AIE properties and application in living cell imaging was constructedviachemoselective domino condensation.
Nitrogen-containing switchable solvents for separation of hydrocarbons and their derivatives
Authors: Liu Yunfeng , Qiu Zhengsong , Zhong Hanyi , Zhao Xin , Huang Weian , Xing Xijin
Published: March 2020

Solvent extraction is commonly used to separate mixtures of hydrocarbons and their derivatives, and solvent choice is strongly influenced by the affinity to the target component, cost and safety.
Influence of molecular weight and concentration of carboxymethyl chitosan on biomimetic mineralization of collagen
Authors: Wang Ruoxun , Guo Jiaxin , Lin Xiaoxuan , Chen Sipeng , Mai Sui
Published: March 2020

The study systematically investigated the influence of molecular weight and concentration of CMC on CMC-ACP nanoparticles and biomimetic mineralization.
Microwave-assisted catalytic conversion of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural using “three dimensional” graphene oxide hybrid catalysts
Authors: Hirano Yui , Beltramini Jorge N. , Mori Atsushi , Nakamura Manami , Karim Mohammad Razaul , Kim Yang , Nakamura Masaaki , Hayami Shinya
Published: March 2020

High glucose → 5-HMF conversion was yielded with conversion of 99% and yield of 95% by 3D structured NiGO-FD and microwave-assisted reaction.
Synthesis of plasmonic Fe/Al nanoparticles in ionic liquids
Authors: Schmitz Alexa , Meyer Hajo , Meischein Michael , Garzón Manjón Alba , Schmolke Laura , Giesen Beatriz , Schlüsener Carsten , Simon Paul , Grin Yuri , Fischer Roland A. , Scheu Christina , Ludwig Alfred , Janiak Christoph
Published: March 2020

Fe/Al NPs of the right size mimic with their red color the electronic surface structure of Au NPs.
NH3-SCR of NO with novel active, supported vanadium-containing Keggin-type heteropolyacid catalysts
Authors: Bukowski Anna , Schill Leonhard , Nielsen David , Mossin Susanne , Riisager Anders , Albert Jakob
Published: March 2020

Supported vanadium-substituted Keggin polyoxometalates (POMs) were applied as catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NO using NH3 as reductant (NH3-SCR).
SAXS studies of the thermally-induced fusion of diblock copolymer spheres: formation of hybrid nanoparticles of intermediate size and shape
Authors: Cornel E. J. , O'Hora P. S. , Smith T. , Growney D. J. , Mykhaylyk O. O. , Armes S. P.
Published: March 2020

Dilute dispersions of poly(lauryl methacrylate)-poly(benzyl methacrylate) diblock copolymer spheres of differing mean diameter are mixed and thermally annealed at 150 °C to produce either spherical or non-spherical nanoparticles of intermediate size.
Skeletal diversity in Pt- and Au-catalyzed annulations of allenedienes: dissecting unconventional mechanistic pathways
Authors: Nelson Ronald , Calvelo Martín , García-Fandiño Rebeca , Lledós Agustí , Ujaque Gregori , Mascareñas José L. , López Fernando
Published: March 2020

Unprecedented Pt- and Au-catalyzed divergent annulations of allenedienes are uncovered, together with mechanistic studies that reveal unanticipated pathways wherein homo-hyperconjugative interactions play a key role.
Kinetics of cooperative CO2 adsorption in diamine-appended variants of the metal–organic framework Mg2(dobpdc)
Authors: Martell Jeffrey D. , Milner Phillip J. , Siegelman Rebecca L. , Long Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2020

An in-depth investigation of the CO2 adsorption kinetics of a promising class of cooperative carbon capture materials offers new insight into their structure-performance properties.
Improving the capacity and cycling-stability of Lithium–sulfur batteries using self-healing binders containing dynamic disulfide bonds
Authors: Duan Lei , Kong Weihua , Yan Wen , Li Cheng-Hui , Jin Zhong , Zuo Jing-Lin
Published: March 2020

A self-healing poly(dimethylsiloxane) polymer containing disulfide bonds is synthesized for application in lithium–sulfur batteries. The reversible breakage/formation of the disulfide bonds can capture polysulfides and accelerate their conversion.
The superior electrochemical performance of a Li-rich layered cathode material with Li-rich spinel Li4Mn5O12 and MgF2 double surface modifications
Authors: Zhu Wei , Tai Zige , Shu Chengyong , Chong Shaokun , Guo Shengwu , Ji Lijie , Chen Yuanzhen , Liu Yongning
Published: March 2020

Li-rich spinel Li4Mn5O12 and MgF2 are constructed on the surface of a Li-rich layered material, and the material exhibits superior electrochemical performance.
Surfactant-based lyotropic liquid crystal gels – the interplay between anisotropic order and gel formation
Authors: Steck Katja , Dieterich Sonja , Stubenrauch Cosima , Giesselmann Frank
Published: March 2020

Surfactant-based lyotropic liquid crystal gels (LLCGs) are soft materials which combine the anisotropic order of a surfactant-based lyotropic liquid crystal with the mechanical stability of a gel.
Bismuth triiodide complexes: structure, spectroscopy, electronic properties, and memristive properties
Authors: Wlaźlak Ewelina , Kalinowska-Tłuścik Justyna , Przyczyna Dawid , Zawal Piotr , Szaciłowski Konrad
Published: March 2020

A clockwise and anticlockwiseI–Vpattern observed for memristive devices based on bismuth(iii) iodide organic–inorganic complexes and different metal electrodes.
Les syndromes de surcroissance segmentaire et les stratégies thérapeutiques
Authors: Venot Quitterie , Canaud Guillaume
Published: March 2020

Les syndromes de surcroissance sont un groupe de pathologies caractérisées par une croissance excessive généralisée ou segmentaire. Les syndromes de surcroissance segmentaires sont principalement dus à des anomalies génétiques apparaissant durant l’embryogenèse et aboutissant à un mosaïcisme. Le nombre de patients atteints d’un syndrome de surcroissance avec une mutation identifiée a fortement augmenté grâce à des avancées récentes en génétique moléculaire, en utilisant le séquençage de nouvelle génération (NGS). Cette revue détaille les différents syndromes de surcroissance segmentaire ainsi que les voies moléculaires impliquées et les options thérapeutiques envisageables.
A new Monte Carlo tool for organ dose estimation in computed tomography
Authors: Adrien C. , Le Loirec C. , Dreuil S. , Bordy J.-M.
Published: March 2020

The constant increase of computed tomography (CT) exams and their major contribution to the collective dose led to international concerns regarding patient dose in CT imaging. Efforts were made to manage radiation dose in CT, mostly with the use of the CT dose index (CTDI). However CTDI does not give access to organ dose information, while Monte Carlo (MC) simulation can provide it if detailed information of the patient anatomy and the source are available. In this work, the X-ray source and the geometry of the GE VCT Lightspeed 64 were modelled, based both on the manufacturer technical note and some experimental data. Simulated dose values were compared with measurements performed in homogeneous conditions with a pencil chamber and then in CIRS ATOM anthropomorphic phantom using both optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLD) for point doses and XR-QA Gafchromic® films for relative dose maps. Organ doses were ultimately estimated in the ICRP 110 numerical female phantom and compared to data reported in the literature. Comparison of measured and simulated values show that our tool can be used for a patient specific and organ dose oriented radiation protection tool in CT medical imaging.
Haben Sie einen Verdacht? – Araber mit Lahmheit
Authors: Schmidhalter Marta
Published: March 2020

Vorgestellt wurde ein 10-jähriger Shagya-Araber-Wallach, eingesetzt im Hochleistungssport auf Distanzritten (120 km).
3D-Customized Guiding Template for Posterior Fixation in Complex Atlantoaxial Instability—Preliminary Experiences of National Cheng Kung University Hospital
Authors: Chen Yi-Yun , Chao Liang-Chun , Fang Jing-Jing , Lee E-Jian
Published: March 2020

Objective Atlantoaxial fixation is technically demanding and challenging, especially in cases with anatomical abnormality. The purpose of this study is to report the effectiveness of the three-dimensional (3D)-customized guiding template for placement of C1 and C2 screws in cases with abnormalities.

Method Two patients with anatomical abnormality and one without were included. The preoperative computed tomography (CT) image was analyzed using our software. The entry point, trajectory, and depth of the screws were designed based on these images. Templates with screw guiding cylinders and cervical spine model were created. In operation, guiding templates were applied directly to the laminae. Drilling, tapping, and screwing were performed through the cylinders. To evaluate the accuracy, deviation of the screw axis from the preplanned trajectory was measured on postoperative CT. A classification system was taking to evaluate the pedicle screw insertion.

Results In complex cases, one of C2 screws has grade 2 deviation, and two has grade 1. There was no deviation in screws of C1. All patients achieved symptoms free after 6 months follow-up.

Conclusion Although 3D-printed template for atlantoaxial fixation still has limitation in complex cases, it has been proved usefulness and makes the most difficult and dangerous spinal posterior fixation easy to achieve.
C1 Hemilaminectomy for Resection of Foramen Magnum Meningioma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Lieber Stefan , Evangelista-Zamora Rocio , Nunez Maximiliano , Tatagiba Marcos
Published: March 2020

We present a case of a sizeable foramen magnum meningioma that was resected through a C1 hemilaminectomy in prone (concorde) position. The patient is a 51-year-old woman with a 3-month history of progressive paresthesia of the upper and lower extremities, followed by gait disturbance, and hand apraxia. There was no complaint of nuchal pain.

On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) a briskly enhancing extra-axial, intradural craniospinal lesion, extending from the basion of the lower clivus, over the tectorial membrane to the middle of the axis' body was discovered. There was significant transposition and compression of the medulla and corresponding focal hyperintensity on T2-weighted imaging.

On physical examination, the patient was ambulatory independently, notwithstanding a pronounced spinal ataxia. There were deficits in sensation and proprioception, as well as urinary retention, but preserved function of the lower cranial nerves.

In view of the profound transposition of the medulla, utilization of the corridor created by the tumor seemed feasible and we felt that a limited C1 hemilaminectomy would provide sufficient microsurgical access thus obviating a more extensive and invasive approach to the craniocervical junction.

A gross-total resection was achieved; histopathology confirmed a World Health Organization (WHO) grade I angiomatous meningioma with a low-proliferation index. The patient was discharged home 3 days after surgery and her spinal ataxia resolved completely within 3 months of out-patient rehabilitation. At 3-year follow-up, there was no indication of residual or recurrence.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/WyShbfr-xi0.
Anatomic Variability of the Morphometric Parameters of the Third Ventricle of the Brain and Its Relations to the Shape of the Skull
Authors: Zhuravlova Iuliia , Kornieieva Maryna
Published: March 2020

Objective The defining of the normal parameters of spacious relations and symmetry of the ventricular system of the brain depending on the gender and age is currently one of the topical research problems of clinical anatomy. The present research aims to identify the correlation between the morphometric parameters of the third ventricle of the brain and the shape of the skull in the middle aged people.

Design This is a prospective cohort study.

Setting This study was set at the Trinity School of Medicine.

Participants A total of 118 normal computed tomography scans of the head of people aged from 21 to 86 years (mean age: 48.6 years ± 17.57) were selected for the study.

Main Outcome Measures The anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, and height of the third ventricle were measured and compared in dolichocranial, mesocranial, and brachycranial individuals.

Results The study has shown the presence of a statistically significant difference between morphometric parameters of the third ventricle of the brain in dolichocranial, mesocranial, and brachycranial individuals.

Conclusion The morphometric parameters of the third ventricle of the brain, such as height, anteroposterior diameter, and transverse diameter, depend on the individual anatomic variability of the skull shape and gender.
Endoscope-Assisted Middle Fossa Approach: Optimizing the Surgical Corridor for the Resection of Multicompartmental Chordomas
Authors: Beer-Furlan André , Vellutini Eduardo de Arnaldo Silva , Balsalobre Leonardo , Stamm Aldo Cassol
Published: March 2020

Background Skull base chordomas are a major therapeutic challenge. The surgical management involves selecting an approach that will offer the patient the best chance of largest/complete removal while minimizing morbidity and mortality.

Methods Medical records and imaging review of two skull base chordomas involving the middle fossa and posterior fossa that were successfully treated with an endoscope-assisted middle fossa approach.

Results The use of angled endoscopes provided better identification of anatomical landmarks and improved tumor resection when compared with the microscopic surgical exposure. The approach selection, anatomical landmarks, and technical aspects of the intraoperative setting of the endoscope-assisted approach are discussed.

Conclusion Endoscopic assistance in the middle fossa approach is a safe and valuable tool for maximizing the reach of the surgical corridor when treating skull base chordomas.
Laparoscopic Removal of Modified Vertical Uterine Compression Sutures due to Postoperative Focal Pain
Authors: Suzuki Toshifumi , Takeda Jun , Jinushi Makoto , Seyama Rie , Maruyama Yojiro , Makino Shintaro , Kitade Mari , Itakura Atsuo
Published: March 2020

Previously we reported laparoscopic removal of compression sutures due to uterine ischemia and related pain, which has two of the difficult aspects: (1) maneuvering the curved needle to perform compression suturing in the narrow surgical field, and (2) distinguishing between the threads of the cesarean section wound sutures versus the vertical compression sutures during removal, as the threads are the same white color. We performed vertical compression sutures for intrapartum hemorrhage with total placental previa, and modified both the needle type and the color of the thread used for uterine compression sutures during cesarean section. After the operation, we performed successful laparoscopic removal of compression sutures for postoperative focal pain. Changing the needle type and color helped to perform operations. The present case supports the concept that the laparoscopic removal of uterine compression suturing is useful for controlling pain in cases where general analgesics are ineffective.
Impact of high resistivity transparent (HRT) layer in cadmium telluride solar cells from numerical simulation
Authors: Doroody C. , Rahman K. S. , Rosly H. N. , Harif M. N. , Haque F. , Tiong S. K. , Amin N.
Published: March 2020

In this study, Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS-1D) is utilized to examine the properties of cadmium telluride (CdTe) based solar cell. The key aim of this study is to explore the prospects of enhancing the efficiency of CdTe solar cells by adding a high resistivity transparent (HRT) layer to the conventional cell structure. For that purpose, novel HRT layer structures are suggested in CdTe solar cells between a cadmium sulfide (CdS) window layer and transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer. Simulation results presented in this paper are from four proposed structures with three different HRT materials compared to the conventional design. The optimal parameters that offer the optimum functionality of the conventional design (SnO2/CdS/CdTe/MoTe2), with and without the HRT layer, are determined. Obtained results validate an enhancement in efficiency of the solar cell with Zn2SO4 as the HRT layer due to lower recombination loss and barrier height at the back contact region. The suggested cell with Zn2SO4 demonstrates an efficiency of 17.61% (Voc = 0.92 V, Jsc = 25.41 mA/cm2, FF = 75.35), with only 20 nm HRT layer and 25 nm CdS as a window layer. In the meantime, the reference cell (no HRT layer) depicts an efficiency of 17.01% with 4000 nm thick CdTe as an absorber layer. However, the normalized efficiency of the suggested cells decreases linearly with increased temperature.
Synthetic photonic lattice for single-shot reconstruction of frequency combs
Authors: Titchener James G. , Bell Bryn , Wang Kai , Solntsev Alexander S. , Eggleton Benjamin J. , Sukhorukov Andrey A.
Published: March 2020

We formulate theoretically and demonstrate experimentally an all-optical method for reconstruction of the amplitude, phase, and coherence of frequency combs from a single-shot measurement of the spectral intensity. Our approach exploits synthetic frequency lattices with pump-induced spectral short- and long-range couplings between different signal components across a broad bandwidth of hundreds of GHz in a single nonlinear fiber. When combined with ultra-fast signal conversion techniques, this approach has the potential to provide real-time measurement of pulse-to-pulse variations in the spectral phase and coherence properties of exotic light sources.
Changes in soil organic carbon and nitrogen after 47 years with different tillage, stubble and fertiliser management in a Vertisol of north-eastern Australia
Authors: Page K. L. , Dalal R. C. , Reeves S. H. , Wang W. J. , Jayaraman Somasundaram , Dang Y. P.
Published: March 2020

No-till (NT) farming has been widely adopted to assist in reducing erosion, lowering fuel costs, conserving soil moisture and improving soil physical, chemical and biological characteristics. Improvements in soil characteristics are often driven by the greater soil organic matter accumulation (as measured by soil organic carbon (SOC)) in NT compared to conventional tillage (CT) farming systems. However, to fully understand the effect of NT it is important to understand temporal changes in SOC by monitoring over an extended period. We investigated the long-term effect of NT and stubble retention (SR) on changes in SOC and total soil nitrogen (STN) using results from an experiment that has been running for 50 years in a semi-arid subtropical region of north-eastern Australia. In this experiment, the effects of tillage (CT vs NT), residue management (stubble burning (SB) vs SR), and nitrogen (N) fertiliser (0 and 90 kg-N ha–1) were measured in a balanced factorial experiment on a Vertisol (Ustic Pellusert). The use of NT, SR and N fertiliser generally improved SOC (by up to 12.8%) and STN stocks (by up to 31.7%) in the 0–0.1 m layer relative to CT, SB and no N fertiliser, with the greatest stocks observed where all three treatments were used in combination. However, declines in SOC (up to 20%) and STN (up to 25%) occurred in all treatments over the course of the experiment, indicating that changes in management practices were unable to prevent a loss of soil organic matter over time in this farming system. However, the NT and SR treatments did lose less SOC than CT and SB treatments, and SR also reduced STN loss. The δ13C analysis of samples collected in 2008 and 2015 highlighted that crop residues have significantly contributed to SOC stocks at the site and that their contribution is increasing over time.
Alkali magmatism on a carbonaceous chondrite planetesimal
Authors: Aléon Jérôme , Aléon-Toppani Alice , Platevoet Bernard , Bardintzeff Jacques-Marie , McKeegan Kevin D. , Brisset François
Published: March 2020

Significance

In spite of magnetic and isotopic evidence revealing connections between the most primitive outer Solar System materials and differentiated bodies with a layered structure akin to terrestrial planets, the meteoritic record lacks samples that document the initiation of partial melting and the onset of planetary differentiation. Here, we describe a trachybasalt formed by very limited partial melting of a carbonaceous chondrite and crystallized as a dyke during ascent through the chondritic crust. This sample testifies of partial differentiation of outer Solar System carbonaceous planetesimals and can be considered as the long-sought first melt produced in differentiating small bodies.
The positioning of English-medium of instruction
Authors: Trent John
Published: March 2020

The proliferation of English-medium instruction (EMI) in higher education institutions (HEIs) across
non-English-speaking Europe has been recently documented in several large-scale surveys. The opportunities and challenges of
designing and implementing EMI policies are also widely recognized. However, our understanding of the use of EMI in Russian HEIs
is limited. This study responds to this research need by exploring the experiences and perspectives of instructors teaching
business-related subjects using the English language in two different Russian HEIs. A contribution of the study is to investigate
these perspectives and experiences using the analytic lens of positioning theory. Results reveal the ways in which instructors are
positioned by the university, as well how they position themselves, within an EMI environment. Acknowledging the potential
antagonism that might result between different EMI stakeholders because of this positioning and repositioning, suggestions are
then made as how this outcome could be avoided. Implications for future research are also considered.
“They are just a danger”
Authors: Jereza Rachelle , Perrino Sabina
Published: March 2020

In recent years, there has been much discussion about the role of social media platforms in the reproduction of
exclusionary rhetoric leveled against social “others” in far-right contexts across the globe. While scholars have examined the
ideologies underpinning exclusionary discourses, few have analyzed the discursive mechanisms through which such ideologies and
“othered” social types become meaningful to ordinary citizens. In this article, we extend this conversation by analyzing digital
discourses on Facebook and YouTube that pertain to Philippine “drug users” and racialized remarks against migrants in Italy
through a chronotopic lens. We demonstrate that despite the historical, economic, and social differences,
far-right ideologies are ordered through chronotopes of national crisis in both cases. Through these chronotopic
worlds, despicable, “othered” social types such as “extracomunitari” in Italy and drug users in the Philippines,
acquire coherence.
Instrumentation of NCAM developed coffee roasting machine
Authors: Ogunjirin O A , Olayinka M , Farounbi A J , Oyedokun J A , Ola O A
Published: March 2020

The increase in demand of coffee in the world as well as high cost of imported coffee roasting machines has made many local fabricators to develop coffee roaster. Unfortunately, the roasted coffee from the machines is not too different from the locally roasted coffee in terms of qualities revealed during sensory and organoleptic tests. This paper presents the development of coffee roaster operational sequence which has a temperature controller, stirring and cooling mechanism embedded into it, which mitigate the effect of poor and irregular heating pattern of most traditional roasting methods. Optimum Coffee roasting temperature is 200°C. However, the roaster can attain a temperature of 400°C.The evaluation of the coffee roaster revealed that the machine attained a steady temperature of 200°C, 250°C and 300°C at 6, 7 and 10 minutes respectively. It was observed that uniform and even roasting was achieved by proper stirring of the coffee bean inside the roaster at the desired temperature which reduced the drudgery, operators’ interference and contamination of the roasted coffee.