bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refining the genetic structure and relationships of European cattle breeds through meta-analysis of worldwide genomic SNP data, focusing on Italian cattle
Authors: Mastrangelo Salvatore , Tolone Marco , Ben Jemaa Slim , Sottile Gianluca , Di Gerlando Rosalia , Cortés Oscar , Senczuk Gabriele , Portolano Baldassare , Pilla Fabio , Ciani Elena
Published: September 2020

The availability of genotyping assays has allowed the detailed evaluation of cattle genetic diversity worldwide. However, these comprehensive studies did not include some local European populations, including autochthonous Italian cattle. In this study, we assembled a large-scale, genome-wide dataset of single nucleotide polymorphisms scored in 3,283 individuals from 205 cattle populations worldwide to assess genome-wide autozygosity and understand better the genetic relationships among these populations. We prioritized European cattle, with a special focus on Italian breeds. Moderate differences in estimates of molecular inbreeding calculated from runs of homozygosity (FROH) were observed among domesticated bovid populations from different geographic areas, except for Bali cattle. Our findings indicated that some Italian breeds show the highest estimates of levels of molecular inbreeding among the cattle populations assessed in this study. Patterns of genetic differentiation, shared ancestry, and phylogenetic analysis all suggested the occurrence of gene flow, particularly among populations originating from the same geographical area. For European cattle, we observed a distribution along three main directions, reflecting the known history and formation of the analyzed breeds. The Italian breeds are split into two main groups, based on their historical origin and degree of conservation of ancestral genomic components. The results pinpointed that also Sicilian breeds, much alike Podolian derived-breeds, in the past experienced a similar non-European influence, with African and indicine introgression.
Comparative quantitative LC–MS/MS analysis of 13 amylase/trypsin inhibitors in ancient and modern Triticum species
Authors: Geisslitz Sabrina , Longin C. Friedrich H. , Koehler Peter , Scherf Katharina Anne
Published: September 2020

Amylase/trypsin inhibitors (ATIs) are major wheat allergens and they are also implicated in causing non-celiac gluten sensitivity and worsening other inflammatory conditions. With only few studies on ATI contents in different Triticum species available so far, we developed a targeted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method based on stable isotope dilution assays to quantitate the 13 most important ATIs in a well-defined sample set of eight cultivars of common wheat and durum wheat (modern species), as well as spelt, emmer and einkorn (ancient species) grown at three locations in Germany, respectively. Only few ATIs with low contents were detected in einkorn. In contrast, spelt had the highest total ATI contents. Emmer and common wheat had similar total ATI contents, with durum wheat having lower contents than common wheat. Due to the lack of correlation, it was not possible to estimate ATI contents based on crude protein contents. The wheat species had a higher influence on ATI contents than the growing location and the heritability of this trait was high. Despite comparatively low intra-species variability, some cultivars were identified that may be promising candidates for breeding for naturally low ATI contents.
TNF genetic polymorphism (rs1799964) may modify the effect of the dietary inflammatory index on gastric cancer in a case–control study
Authors: Kim Jeeeun , Lee Jeonghee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Il , Sung Joohon , Kim Jeongseon
Published: September 2020

The inflammatory process is known to increase the risk of gastric carcinogenesis, and both genetic and dietary factors are associated with inflammation. In the present study of 1,125 participants (373 cases and 752 controls), we determined whether the dietary inflammatory index (DII) is associated with the risk of gastric cancer (GC) and investigated whether a TNF polymorphism (rs1799964) modifies this association. Semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire derived data were used to calculate the DII scores. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multivariable logistic models adjusted for confounders. When we stratified the data by sex, the association between GC and the DII was significant only among the women (OR, 2.27; 95% CI 1.25–4.19), and the DII effect on the risk of GC differed depending on the TNF genotype (OR, 2.30; 95% CI 1.27–4.24 in TT genotype; OR, 0.78; 95% CI 0.37–1.65 in CC + CT, p for interaction = 0.035). Furthermore, the association between the DII and GC was significant in the Helicobacter pylori-positive group; similarly, the effect differed based on the TNF genotype (OR, 1.76; 95% CI 1.13–2.73 in TT genotype; OR,0.98; 95% CI 0.54–1.77 in CT + CC, p for interaction = 0.034). In conclusion, rs1799964 may modify the effect of the DII on GC.
Health-related quality of life amongst people diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysm and peripheral artery disease and the effect of fenofibrate
Authors: Golledge Jonathan , Pinchbeck Jenna , Rowbotham Sophie E. , Yip Lisan , Jenkins Jason S. , Quigley Frank , Moxon Joseph V.
Published: September 2020

The aims of this study were, firstly, to assess the effect of concurrent peripheral artery disease (PAD) on the health-related quality of life (QOL) of people diagnosed with a small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA); and secondly, to test whether the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α agonist fenofibrate improved QOL of people diagnosed with a small AAA, including those diagnosed with concurrent PAD. The study included both a cross-sectional observational study and a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. 140 people diagnosed with a 35–49 mm diameter AAA, 56 (40%) of whom had concurrent PAD, and 25 healthy controls were prospectively recruited. QOL was assessed with the short form (SF) 36. Findings in participants that were diagnosed with both AAA and PAD were compared separately with those of participants that had a diagnosis of AAA alone or who had neither AAA nor PAD diagnosed (healthy controls). All participants diagnosed with an AAA were then randomly allocated to 145 mg of fenofibrate per day or identical placebo. Outcomes were assessed by changes in the domains of the SF-36 and ankle brachial pressure Index (ABPI) from randomization to 24 weeks. Data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U tests. Participants diagnosed with both AAA and PAD had significantly worse QOL than participants diagnosed with AAA alone or healthy controls. Fenofibrate did not significantly alter SF-36 scores or ABPI over 24 weeks. Fenofibrate does not improve QOL of people diagnosed with small AAA, irrespective of whether they have concurrent PAD.

Trial registration: ACTN12613001039774 Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry.
Serological cytokine signature in paediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease impacts diagnosis
Authors: Tatsuki Maiko , Hatori Reiko , Nakazawa Tomoko , Ishige Takashi , Hara Tomoko , Kagimoto Seiichi , Tomomasa Takeshi , Arakawa Hirokazu , Takizawa Takumi
Published: September 2020

Endoscopy is a central tool for diagnosing and evaluating paediatric inflammatory bowel diseases (PIBD), but is too invasive to be frequently repeated in young children. Furthermore, it is challenging to distinguish Crohn’s disease (CD) from ulcerative colitis (UC) endoscopically. This study aimed to determine biomarkers useful for the diagnosis of PIBD. Cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were quantified in the sera of 15 patients with CD or UC, at disease onset prior to treatment, and 26 age-matched controls. Correlation of cytokine levels with the paediatric CD activity index (PCDAI) and the paediatric UC activity index (PUCAI) was analysed. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-13, IL-7, and vascular endothelial growth factor were higher in the CD group than in the UC group. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that IL-7 was a putative biomarker for distinguishing CD from UC (area under the curve: 0.94). Granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor was associated with PCDAI, and an IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-6, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1β were associated with PUCAI. These findings indicate significant differences in cytokine signatures among patients with new-onset PIBD, which may improve accuracy in diagnosing PIBD.
Generation and characterization of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated MEN1 knockout BON1 cells: a human pancreatic neuroendocrine cell line
Authors: Monazzam Azita , Li Su-Chen , Wargelius Hanna , Razmara Masoud , Bajic Duska , Mi Jia , Bergquist Jonas , Crona Joakim , Skogseid Britt
Published: September 2020

Among patients with the rare diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (P-NET), a substantial proportion suffer from the inherited cancer syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), which is caused by germline mutations of the MEN1 suppressor gene. Somatic mutations and loss of the MEN1 protein (menin) are frequently also found in sporadic P-NETs. Thus, a human neuroendocrine pancreatic cell line with biallelic inactivation of MEN1 might be of value for studying tumorigenesis. We used the polyclonal human P-NET cell line BON1, which expresses menin, serotonin, chromogranin A and neurotensin, to generate a monoclonal stable MEN1 knockout BON1 cell line (MEN1-KO-BON1) by CRISPR/Cas9 editing. Changes in morphology, hormone secretion, and proliferation were analyzed, and proteomics were assessed using nanoLC-MS/MS and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). The menin-lacking MEN1-KO-BON1 cells had increased chromogranin A production and were smaller, more homogenous, rounder and grew faster than their control counterparts. Proteomic analysis revealed 457 significantly altered proteins, and IPA identified biological functions related to cancer, e.g., posttranslational modification and cell death/survival. Among 39 proteins with at least a two-fold difference in expression, twelve are relevant in glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. The stable monoclonal MEN1-KO-BON1 cell line was found to have preserved neuroendocrine differentiation, increased proliferation, and an altered protein profile.
The effect on clinical outcomes when targeting spinal manipulation at stiffness or pain sensitivity: a randomized trial
Authors: Nim Casper Glissmann , Kawchuk Gregory Neil , Schiøttz-Christensen Berit , O’Neill Søren
Published: September 2020

The mechanisms underlying pain relief following spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) are not understood fully although biomechanical and neurophysiological processes have been proposed. As such, we designed this randomized trial to elucidate the contributions of biomechanical and neurophysiological processes. A total of 132 participants with low back pain were randomly assigned to receive SMT at either the lumbar segment measured as the stiffest or the segment measured as having the lowest pain threshold. The primary outcome was patient reported low back pain intensity following treatment. Secondary outcomes were biomechanical stiffness and neurophysiological pressure pain threshold. All outcomes were measured at baseline, after the fourth and final session and at 2-weeks follow-up. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models, and demonstrated that the SMT application site did not influence patient reported low back pain intensity or stiffness. However, a large and significant difference in pressure pain threshold was observed between groups. This study provides support that SMT impacts neurophysiological parameters through a segment-dependent neurological reflex pathway, although this do not seem to be a proxy for improvement. This study was limited by the assumption that the applied treatment was sufficient to impact the primary outcome.
Language is the missing link in action-perception coupling: an EEG study
Authors: Billard Pauline , Coll Sélim Yahia , Glowinski Donald , Grandjean Didier
Published: September 2020

The paper reports an electrophysiological (EEG) study investigating how language is involved in perception–action relations in musically trained and untrained participants. Using an original backward priming paradigm, participants were exposed to muted point-light videos of violinists performing piano or forte nuances followed by a congruent vs. incongruent word. After the video presentation, participants were asked to decide whether the musician was playing a piano or forte musical nuance. EEG results showed a greater P200 event-related potential for trained participants at the occipital site, and a greater N400 effect for untrained participants at the central site. Musically untrained participants were more accurate when the word was semantically congruent with the gesture than when it was incongruent. Overall, language seems to influence the performance of untrained participants, for which perception–action couplings are less automatized.
Population-based epidemiological data of follicular lymphoma in Poland: 15 years of observation
Authors: Szumera-Ciećkiewicz Anna , Wojciechowska Urszula , Didkowska Joanna , Poleszczuk Jan , Rymkiewicz Grzegorz , Paszkiewicz-Kozik Ewa , Sokół Kamil , Prochorec-Sobieszek Monika , Walewski Jan
Published: September 2020

Available epidemiological reports on follicular lymphoma (FL) often highlight a significant discrepancy between its high and low incidence rates in Western and Eastern Europe, respectively. The reasons behind that difference are not fully understood, but underreporting is typically presumed as one of the main factors. This study aimed to assess FL epidemiology in Poland based on 2000–2014 data from the Polish National Cancer Registry, which has 100% population coverage and over 90% completeness of the registration. All cases were coded according to ICD-10 and ICD-O-3 recommendations. The total number of registered FL cases was 3,928 with crude (CR) and standardized (SR) incidence rates of 0.72/105 and 0.87/105, respectively. The median age of FL diagnosis was 61 years, with the male to female incidence ratio of 1.06. The distribution of morphological types of FL: not otherwise specified (NOS), grades 1, 2, or 3 were 72.58, 4.81, 12.88, and 9.73%, respectively. Among all reported mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, FL was ranked the fourth in incidence, just after chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CR 3.62/105, SR 4.99/105), plasma cell neoplasms (CR 3.78/105, SR 4.97/105) and diffuse B-cell lymphoma, NOS (CR 2.13/105, SR 2.65/105). The systematic increase in FL incidence among females was observed. Our study confirms a lower FL incidence rate in Poland as compared to other European countries. Moreover, as our analysis was based on a registry with high data completeness, it provides evidence that reasons other than underreporting are responsible for FL incidence discrepancies between Eastern and Western Europe.
Towards personalized induction therapy for esophageal adenocarcinoma: organoids derived from endoscopic biopsy recapitulate the pre-treatment tumor
Authors: Derouet Mathieu F. , Allen Jonathan , Wilson Gavin W. , Ng Christine , Radulovich Nikolina , Kalimuthu Sangeetha , Tsao Ming-Sound , Darling Gail E. , Yeung Jonathan C.
Published: September 2020

Esophageal adenocarcinoma has few known recurrent mutations and therefore robust, reliable and reproducible patient-specific models are needed for personalized treatment. Patient-derived organoid culture is a strategy that may allow for the personalized study of esophageal adenocarcinoma and the development of personalized induction therapy. We therefore developed a protocol to establish EAC organoids from endoscopic biopsies of naïve esophageal adenocarcinomas. Histologic characterization and molecular characterization of organoids by whole exome sequencing demonstrated recapitulation of the tumors’ histology and genomic (~ 60% SNV overlap) characteristics. Drug testing using clinically appropriate chemotherapeutics and targeted therapeutics showed an overlap between the patient’s tumor response and the corresponding organoids’ response. Furthermore, we identified Barrett’s esophagus epithelium as a potential source of organoid culture contamination. In conclusion, organoids can be robustly cultured from endoscopic biopsies of esophageal adenocarcinoma and recapitulate the originating tumor. This model demonstrates promise as a tool to better personalize therapy for esophageal adenocarcinoma patients.
Proposal for an electrostrictive logic device with the epitaxial oxide heterostructure
Authors: Anam Md. Khirul , Gopalakrishnan Pratheek , Sebastian Ann , Ahn Ethan C.
Published: September 2020

The possible use of electrostrictive materials for information processing devices has been widely discussed because it could allow low-power logic operation by overcoming the fundamental limit of subthreshold swing greater than 60 mV/decade in conventional MOSFETs. However, existing proposals for electrostrictive FET applications typically adopt approaches that are entirely theoretical and simulative, thus lacking practical insights into how an electrostrictive material can be best interfaced with a channel material. Here we propose an electrostrictive FET device, involving the epitaxial oxide heterostructure as an ideal material platform for maximum strain transfer. The ON/OFF switching occurs due to a stress-induced concentration change of oxygen vacancies in the memristive oxide channel layer. Based on finite-element simulations, we show that the application of a minimal gate voltage bias can induce stress in the channel layer as high as 108 N/m2 owing to the epitaxial interface between the electrostrictive and memristive oxide layers. Conductive AFM experiments further support the feasibility of the proposed device by demonstrating the stress-induced conductivity modulation of a perovskite oxide thin film, SrTiO3, that is well known to serve as the substrate for epitaxial growth of other functional oxide layers.
Using proteomics to identify host cell interaction partners for VgrG and IglJ
Authors: Proksova Magdalena , Rehulkova Helena , Rehulka Pavel , Lays Claire , Lenco Juraj , Stulik Jiri
Published: September 2020

Francisella tularensis is a highly virulent intracellular bacterium and the causative agent of tularemia. The disease is characterized by the suboptimal innate immune response and consequently by the impaired adaptive immunity. The virulence of this pathogen depends on proteins encoded by a genomic island termed the Francisella Pathogenicity Island (FPI). However, the precise biological roles of most of the FPI-encoded proteins remain to be clarified. In this study, we employed stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) in combination with affinity protein purification coupled with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to identify potential protein-effector binding pairs for two FPI virulence effectors IglJ and VgrG. Our results may indicate that while the IglJ protein interactions primarily affect mitochondria, the VgrG interactions affect phagosome and/or autophagosome biogenesis via targeting components of the host’s exocyst complex.
A CRISPR activation and interference toolkit for industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain KE6-12
Authors: Cámara Elena , Lenitz Ibai , Nygård Yvonne
Published: September 2020

Recent advances in CRISPR/Cas9 based genome editing have considerably advanced genetic engineering of industrial yeast strains. In this study, we report the construction and characterization of a toolkit for CRISPR activation and interference (CRISPRa/i) for a polyploid industrial yeast strain. In the CRISPRa/i plasmids that are available in high and low copy variants, dCas9 is expressed alone, or as a fusion with an activation or repression domain; VP64, VPR or Mxi1. The sgRNA is introduced to the CRISPRa/i plasmids from a double stranded oligonucleotide by in vivo homology-directed repair, allowing rapid transcriptional modulation of new target genes without cloning. The CRISPRa/i toolkit was characterized by alteration of expression of fluorescent protein-encoding genes under two different promoters allowing expression alterations up to ~ 2.5-fold. Furthermore, we demonstrated the usability of the CRISPRa/i toolkit by improving the tolerance towards wheat straw hydrolysate of our industrial production strain. We anticipate that our CRISPRa/i toolkit can be widely used to assess novel targets for strain improvement and thus accelerate the design-build-test cycle for developing various industrial production strains.
Semi-automated identification of biological control agent using artificial intelligence
Authors: Liao Jhih-Rong , Lee Hsiao-Chin , Chiu Ming-Chih , Ko Chiun-Cheng
Published: September 2020

The accurate identification of biological control agents is necessary for monitoring and preventing contamination in integrated pest management (IPM); however, this is difficult for non-taxonomists to achieve in the field. Many machine learning techniques have been developed for multiple applications (e.g., identification of biological organisms). Some phytoseiids are biological control agents for small pests, such asNeoseiulus barkeriHughes. To identify a precise biological control agent, a boosting machine learning classification, namely eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), was introduced in this study for the semi-automated identification of phytoseiid mites. XGBoost analyses were based on 22 quantitative morphological features among 512 specimens ofN. barkeriand related phytoseiid species. These features were extracted manually from photomicrograph of mites and included dorsal and ventrianal shield lengths, setal lengths, and length and width of spermatheca. The results revealed 100% accuracy rating, and setaj4achieved significant discrimination among specimens. The present study provides a path through which skills and experiences can be transferred between experts and non-experts. This can serve as a foundation for future studies on the automated identification of biological control agents for IPM.
Constraint on precipitation response to climate change by combination of atmospheric energy and water budgets
Authors: Dagan Guy , Stier Philip
Published: September 2020

Global mean precipitation is expected to increase with increasing temperatures, a process which is fairly well understood. In contrast, local precipitation changes, which are key for society and ecosystems, demonstrate a large spread in predictions by climate models, can be of both signs and have much larger magnitude than the global mean change. Previously, two top-down approaches to constrain precipitation changes were proposed, using either the atmospheric water or energy budget. Here, using an ensemble of 27 climate models, we study the relative importance of these two budgetary constraints and present analysis of the spatial scales at which they hold. We show that specific geographical locations are more constrained by either one of the budgets and that the combination of water and energy budgets provides a significantly stronger constraint on the spatial scale of precipitation changes under anthropogenic climate change (on average about 3000 km, above which changes in precipitation approach the global mean change). These results could also provide an objective way to define the scale of ‘regional’ climate change.
Publisher Correction: Transcriptomic and proteomic signatures of stemness and differentiation in the colon crypt
Authors: Habowski Amber N. , Flesher Jessica L. , Bates Jennifer M. , Tsai Chia-Feng , Martin Kendall , Zhao Rui , Ganesan Anand K. , Edwards Robert A. , Shi Tujin , Wiley H. Steven , Shi Yongsheng , Hertel Klemens J. , Waterman Marian L.
Published: September 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Dual-recognition-based determination of ctDNA via the clamping function of peptide nucleic acid and terminal protection of small-molecule-linked DNA
Authors: Chen Chaohui , He Rongxiang , Zhang Zhengtao , Chen Yong
Published: September 2020

A new dual-recognition fluorescent biosensor for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) detection has been developed, which combines the clamping function of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) and terminal protection of small-molecule-linked DNA (TPSMLD).
The discovery of lactoferrin dual aptamers through surface plasmon resonance imaging combined with a bioinformation analysis
Authors: Jia Wenchao , Wang Zecheng , Lu Zhongyi , Ding Baiwen , Li Zhoumin , Xu Danke
Published: September 2020

An analytical method for screening multi-site recognition aptamers in lactoferrin molecules has been developed based on Surface Plasmon Resonance imaging, combined with the cluster classification calculation and molecular docking simulation.
Rationally designed rare earth separation by selective oxalate solubilization
Authors: Prodius Denis , Klocke Matthew , Smetana Volodymyr , Alammar Tarek , Perez Garcia Marilu , Windus Theresa L. , Nlebedim Ikenna C. , Mudring Anja-Verena
Published: September 2020

A simple, eco-friendly and efficient chemical separation of rare earth oxalates (CSEREOX) in water within two rare earth metals subgroups has been elaborated.
Dephosphorylation-directed tricyclic DNA amplification cascades for sensitive detection of protein tyrosine phosphatase
Authors: Li Yueying , Sun Shuli , Tian Xiaorui , Qiu Jian-Ge , Jiang BingHua , Wang Li-juan , Zhang Chun-yang
Published: September 2020

A new fluorescence method is developed for the sensitive detection of protein tyrosine phosphatase based on dephosphorylation-directed tricyclic DNA amplification cascades.
A luminescent terbium coordination polymer as a multifunctional water-stable sensor for detection of Pb2+ ions, PO43− ions, Cr2O72− ions, and some amino acids
Authors: Li Zhang , Zhan Zhiying , Hu Ming
Published: September 2020

It is the first Ln-CP fluorescence probe for synchronous determination of Tyr and Trp in the presence of other amino acids.
Environmentally responsible, safe, and chemoselective catalytic hydrogenation of olefins: ppm level Pd catalysis in recyclable water at room temperature
Authors: Takale Balaram S. , Thakore Ruchita R. , Gao Eugene S. , Gallou Fabrice , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: September 2020

Textbook catalytic hydrogenations are typically presented as reactions done in organic solvents and oftentimes under varying pressures of hydrogen using specialized equipment.
A computational workflow to discover novel liquid organic hydrogen carriers and their dehydrogenation routes
Authors: Paragian Kristin , Li Bowen , Massino Morgan , Rangarajan Srinivas
Published: September 2020

A novel strategy to discover two-way liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) – organic molecules that store hydrogen as reversible chemical bonds – and discern their dehydrogenation chemistry.
Ctenophore-inspired hydrogels for efficient and repeatable underwater specific adhesion to biotic surfaces
Authors: Su Xing , Luo Yang , Tian Zhuoling , Yuan Zuoying , Han Yiming , Dong Runfeng , Xu Liang , Feng Yuting , Liu Xiaozhi , Huang Jianyong
Published: September 2020

Adhesive hydrogels hold great promise in multiple biomedical applications.
Constructing S-doped Ni–Co LDH intercalated with Fe3O4 heterostructure photocatalysts for enhanced pesticide degradation
Authors: Rashidimoghaddam Mohadeseh , Saljooqi Asma , Shamspur Tayebeh , Mostafavi Ali
Published: September 2020

A S-doped Ni–Co LDH/Fe3O4 nanocomposite was synthesised and its photocatalytic activity was tested for the degradation of CP.
The oxygen reduction reaction of two electron transfer of nitrogen-doped carbon in the electro-Fenton system
Authors: Feng Jiayi , Zhang Yonggang
Published: September 2020

Degradation mechanism of ORR for the NGO-Ti mesh cathode material in the EF process.
A facile surface modification of a PVDF membrane via CaCO3 mineralization for efficient oil/water emulsion separation
Authors: Wu Junda , Xie Atian , Yang Jin , Dai Jiangdong , Li Chunxiang , Yan Yongsheng , Cui Jiuyun
Published: September 2020

A facile modification of a PVDF membrane using CaCO3 inorganic particles via a layer-by-layer self-assembly process for efficient oil/water separation.
Experimental and DFT mechanistic insights into one-pot synthesis of 1H-pyrazolo[1,2-b]phthalazine-5,10-diones under catalysis of DBU-based ionic liquids
Authors: Fallah-Ghasemi Gildeh Sara , Mehrdad Morteza , Roohi Hossein , Ghauri Khatereh , Fallah-Ghasemi Gildeh Sahar , Rad-Moghadam Kurosh
Published: September 2020

Kinetic impacts of two DBU-based ionic liquids in the three-component synthesis of 1H-pyrazolo[1,2-b]phthalazine-5,10-diones and the mechanism of the reaction were investigated by DFT calculations.
Stay positive: catalysis with 1,3,2-diazaphospholenes
Authors: Reed John H. , Klett Johannes , Steven Craig , Cramer Nicolai
Published: September 2020

Fundamental properties and recent advances in the catalytic application of 1,3,2-diazaphospholenes are reviewed, and future directions for the field are presented.
Nickel-catalyzed enantioselective electroreductive cross-couplings
Authors: Zhou Zhijun , Xu Sheng , Zhang Jing , Kong Wangqing
Published: September 2020

Ni-Catalyzed reductive cross-coupling of two electrophiles has evolved into a powerful means for building diverse carbon-carbon bonds in an enantioselective manner. Here we summarize the recent progress in Ni-catalyzed enantioselective electroreductive coupling reactions.
A decennary update on applications of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) in the synthesis of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing heterocyclic scaffolds
Authors: Dhameliya Tejas M. , Donga Hiren A. , Vaghela Punit V. , Panchal Bhoomi G. , Sureja Dipen K. , Bodiwala Kunjan B. , Chhabria Mahesh T.
Published: September 2020

Metal nanoparticle (MNP)-catalyzed synthesis of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing heterocyclic scaffolds.
Recent progress to construct calixarene-based polymers using covalent bonds: synthesis and applications
Authors: Zadmard Reza , Hokmabadi Fahimeh , Jalali Mohammad Reza , Akbarzadeh Ali
Published: September 2020

The combination of supramolecular chemistry and polymer sciences creates a great possibility to afford calixarene-based polymers offering unique features and applications.
BaSrTiO3 ceramic‐polymer composite material lens antennas at 220–330 GHz telecommunication applications
Authors: Myllymäki S. , Teirikangas M. , Kokkonen M.
Published: September 2020

Ceramic (Ba0.55 Sr0.45 Ti1.01 O3 ) – polypropylene polymer ER182 composites‐based materials were applied for sub‐THz range antenna lens application in telecommunications. Typical plano‐convex ‐shaped lenses were simulated and measured with a standard rectangular waveguide at 220–330 GHz frequency band and applied on 150 mm on‐air distance. The lens fabricated with ER182 polymer material increased the signal strength by 15 dB, ER182/7 vol% BST by 6 dB and ER182/30 vol% BST by −23 dB. Material loss tangent values were 0.008 for ER182, 0.034 for ER182/7%BST and 0.081 for ER182/30%BST. The directivity of ER182 material lens and WR3 waveguide combination was 26 dBi at 300 GHz.
An inverse analysis to identify the Johnson-Cook constitutive model parameters for cold wire drawing process
Authors: Aghdami Ashkan Mahmoud , Davoodi Behnam
Published: September 2020

Johnson-Cook constitutive equation was utilized to model the 10100 copper and AA 1100 aluminum wires at the cold wire drawing process. Initial Johnson cook parameters were determined through quasi-static tensile tests at different strain rates. Analytical and finite element with VUHARD subroutine solutions were implemented to calculate the drawing forces using the Johnson cook parameters. Wire drawing experiments were carried out at different drawing conditions with two areal reductions and four drawing speeds with the strain rate ranged from 37 s−1 to 115 s−1 and wire drawing forces were measured using a load cell connected to the drawing die. Results showed that the Johnson cook model with parameters determined from a quasi-static condition was not able to predict the material behavior at the wire drawing process with a moderate strain rate. In order to modify the initial JC parameters an inverse analysis approach was adopted. An objective function was defined based on analytical and experimental drawing forces differences with respect to JC parameters. Using the Newton–Raphson method, new JC parameters were identified by minimizing the objective function. Updated Johnson cook parameters showed much more correlation with experimental results.
Towards an algebraic method of solar cycle prediction
Authors: Petrovay Kristóf , Nagy Melinda , Yeates Anthony R.
Published: September 2020

We discuss the potential use of an algebraic method to compute the value of the solar axial dipole moment at solar minimum, widely considered to be the most reliable precursor of the activity level in the next solar cycle. The method consists of summing up the ultimate contributions of individual active regions to the solar axial dipole moment at the end of the cycle. A potential limitation of the approach is its dependence on the underlying surface flux transport (SFT) model details. We demonstrate by both analytical and numerical methods that the factor relating the initial and ultimate dipole moment contributions of an active region displays a Gaussian dependence on latitude with parameters that only depend on details of the SFT model through the parameter η/Δu where η is supergranular diffusivity and Δu is the divergence of the meridional flow on the equator. In a comparison with cycles simulated in the 2 × 2D dynamo model we further demonstrate that the inaccuracies associated with the algebraic method are minor and the method may be able to reproduce the dipole moment values in a large majority of cycles.
Ein langer Prozess – Verhandlungen zwischen Verbänden und Krankenkassen
Authors: Mischner Julia
Published: September 2020

Derzeit verhandeln die maßgeblichen Berufsverbände mit dem GKV-Spitzenverband den neuen Vertrag, der die Einzelheiten der Heilmittelversorgung in Deutschland klärt. Er soll am 1. Oktober 2020 bundesweit in Kraft treten. ergopraxis zeigt, wie der Verhandlungsprozess abläuft und welche Parteien daran beteiligt sind.
Impact of Patient Alignment on Image Quality in C-Arm Computed Tomography – Evaluation Using an ACR Phantom
Authors: Alikhani Babak , Renne Julius , Maschke Sabine , Hinrichs Jan B. , Wacker Frank K. , Werncke Thomas
Published: September 2020

Purpose To evaluate the influence of patient alignment and thereby heel effect on the image quality (IQ) of C-arm flat-panel detector computed tomography (CACT).

Materials and Methods An ACR phantom placed in opposite directions along the z-axis (setup A and B) on the patient support was imaged using CACT. Image acquisition was performed with three different image acquisition protocols. The images were reconstructed with four convolution kernels. IQ was assessed in terms of high contrast using the modulation transfer function (MTF) and low contrast by assessing the image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) as well as the reliability of density measurements. Furthermore, the dose intensity profiles were measured free-in-air.

Results The MTF in setup B is higher than the MTF measured in setup A (p < 0.01). The image noises measured in setup A for the air and bone inserts were higher compared to those measured in setup B (p > 0.05). Opposite behavior has been observed for the polyethylene, water-equivalent and acrylic inserts. The SNR for all inserts is inversely related to the image noise. A systematically increasing or decreasing trend of CNR could not be observed (p > 0.05). The intensity profile measured by the detector system free-in-air showed that the anode heel effect is perpendicular to the z-axis.

Conclusion The patient alignment has a minor influence on the IQ of CACT. This effect is not based on the X-ray anode heel effect but is caused mainly by the non-symmetrical rotation of CACT.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Metabolic and Endocrine Challenges
Authors: Martucci Gennaro , Bonicolini Eleonora , Parekh Dhruv , Thein Onn Shaun , Scherkl Mario , Amrein Karin
Published: September 2020

This review aims to provide an overview of metabolic and endocrine challenges in the setting of intensive care medicine. These are a group of heterogeneous clinical conditions with a high degree of overlap, as well as nonspecific signs and symptoms. Several diseases involve multiple organ systems, potentially causing catastrophic dysfunction and death. In the majority of cases, endocrine challenges accompany other organ failures or manifest as a complication of prolonged intensive care unit stay and malnutrition. However, when endocrine disorders present as an isolated syndrome, they are a rare and extreme manifestation. As they are uncommon, these can typically challenge both with diagnosis and management. Acute exacerbations may be elicited by triggers such as infections, trauma, surgery, and hemorrhage. In this complex scenario, early diagnosis and prompt treatment require knowledge of the specific endocrine syndrome. Here, we review diabetic coma, hyponatremia, hypercalcemia, thyroid emergencies, pituitary insufficiency, adrenal crisis, and vitamin D deficiency, highlighting diagnostic tools and tricks, and management pathways through defining common clinical presentations.
Blow up of solutions of semilinear wave equations in Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker spacetime
Authors: Tsutaya Kimitoshi , Wakasugi Yuta
Published: September 2020

Consider a nonlinear wave equation for a massless scalar field with self-interaction in the spatially flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker spacetimes. For the case of decelerating expansion, we show upper bounds of the lifespan of blow-up solutions by distinguishing subcritical and critical cases. Comparing to the case of the Minkowski spacetime, we discuss how the scale factor affects the lifespan of blow-up solutions of the equation.
Technologies for magnetic induction tomography sensors and image reconstruction in medical assisted diagnosis: A review
Authors: Chen Ruijuan , Huang Juan , Li Bingnan , Wang Jinhai , Wang Huiquan
Published: September 2020

Magnetic induction tomography (MIT) is a non-invasive and non-contact imaging technology, which can be used in medical diagnosis by reconstructing the electrical distribution of biological tissues. Unlike other large medical imaging equipment, the device of MIT is with small size and low cost. The theoretical basis of MIT is by measuring the phase difference of magnetic flux density generated around the imaging objects, analyzing the eddy current distribution, and then using the reconstruction algorithms to obtain the electrical characteristic distribution of the object. This review introduces the development of imaging systems and the reconstruction algorithms of MIT as a medical assisted diagnostic technology, including the optimal design of the sensors, the excitation methods of the system, the calculation methods of the eddy current, and the improved methods of different reconstruction algorithms.
Investigation on the main characteristics of dynamic hohlraum formation at the Julong-1 facility
Authors: Ye Fan , Xiao Delong , Qin Yi , Huang Zhanchang , Ding Ning , Yang Jun , Lu Jian , Ning Jiamin , Meng Shijian , Yan Xiaosong , Jiang Shuqing , Yang Ruihua , Wen Xia , Yang Jianlun , Xu Zeping , Xu Rongkun , Li Zhenghong
Published: September 2020

Z-pinch dynamic hohlraum experiments have been carried out at the Julong-1 facility by imploding a nested tungsten wire array, which is configured with 20/10 mm diameter and 168/84 wires of 6.0 μm in diameter for the outer/inner array, onto a 10 mg/cc C15H20O6 foam converter with a radius of 2.3 mm. Detailed processes of shock formation, propagation, and radiation transfer of dynamic hohlraum were experimentally observed using an on-axis x-ray imaging system with simultaneous dual spectral channels. When the wire array plasma impacts onto the foam converter, thermalization of kinetic energy at the interaction zone generates a shock that propagates inward. The energy dissipated by imploding plasmas increases gradually, resulting in the strengthening of shock wave and finally the formation of the main radiating shock. During the propagating period of radiating shock, thermal radiation gradually transfers into the inner region, and a uniform hohlraum is produced when the main shock arrives at a radius of 0.8 mm in the experiments at the Julong-1 facility. The experimental results first describe the physics of about 100 eV hohlraum formations and may extend our understanding of Z-pinch dynamic hohlraums for future inertial confinement fusion applications.
Structural and magnetic properties of superconductor NiBi3/α-Bi2O3 synthesized by mechanical alloying
Authors: Rebelo Q. H. F. , de Oliveira A. E. S. , Chaudhuri P. , Trichês D. M. , de Lima J. C. , Michielon de Souza S.
Published: September 2020

A nanostructured NiBi3/α-Bi2O3 superconductor composite has been synthesized by the process of mechanical alloying through 19 h of high energy ball milling. The kinetics of formation is analyzed in detail by x-ray diffraction and the Rietveld method. A simple method is proposed to determine the crystallinity of the resulting sample by using the background Rietveld fitting that permits a quantitative analysis of the diffuse x-ray profile taking into account the air and Compton scattering. The diffuse scattering is attributed to the formation of a nanocluster of α-Bi2O3 which is confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and Raman measurements. The magnetic measurements show superconducting transition at around 4 K and the existence of NiBi3/α-Bi2O3 nanophases with a low irreversibility field at around 1.01 T at 2 K. Analysis of magnetic susceptibility and isothermal magnetic hysteresis of the NiBi3/α-Bi2O3 nanocomposite indicates the simultaneous existence of bulk superconductivity and ferromagnetism below 4 K.
Signature of p-type semiconductor features in paper-based back gate metal-organic framework thin-film transistors
Authors: Jiang Zhi , Liu Desheng , Li Caihong , Liu Hezhuang , Zou Jihua , Xu Zhaoquan , Wu Jiang , Wang Zhiming
Published: September 2020

A kind of continuous flexible paper substrate thin film transistors (TFTs) of the ratio of a controllable length to width nickel (Ni) two-dimensionally connected metal-organic frameworks, Ni-TCNQ (TCNQ = 7, 7, 8, 8-tetracyanoquinodimethane), has been prepared skillfully by using all ink-jet printing Ni(NO3)2·6H2O and the TCNQ hydrothermal interface in situ reaction method. The structure analysis of Ni-TCNQ on copper electrodes was revealed by combining transmission electron microscope and powder x-ray diffraction techniques, indicating that it has a lamellar and porous structure. The morphology and structure of the transistor channel are stacked up by nanosheets of 2D lattice of [Ni(C12H4N4)2]n, which is further verified by scanning electron microscope, FT-IR, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. I–V characteristics show that electrical behaviors of the p-type junctionless TFT are fabricated at room temperature.
Dynamics of the gas discharge in noble gases sustained by the powerful radiation of 0.67 THz gyrotron
Authors: Sidorov A. , Razin S. , Veselov A. , Viktorov M. , Vodopyanov A. , Luchinin A. , Glyavin M.
Published: September 2020

This work was carried out in a frame of the study of the discharge propagation in noble gases in focused beams of the terahertz frequency range radiation. A 40 kW at 670 GHz pulsed gyrotron was used as a source of heating radiation. The propagation velocity of the discharge front in various noble gases (argon, krypton, and a helium–argon mixture) was measured over a wide pressure range (from several atmospheres to several Torr, depending on the type of gas). It is shown that the discharge propagation velocity decreases with increasing gas pressure. Moreover, the velocity decreases with an increase in the atomic mass of the gas from several units of 107 cm/s in the case of a helium–argon mixture to 106–105 cm/s (depending on pressure) in the case of krypton over the entire pressure range. Measurements of the discharge propagation velocity were carried out in several ways: from instant snapshots from the high-speed camera and images of the discharge from a streak-camera. The mechanisms responsible for the propagation of the discharge are currently the subject of further research.
Effect of quantum confinement on the defect-induced localized levels in 4H-SiC(0001)/SiO2 systems
Authors: Ito Koji , Kobayashi Takuma , Kimoto Tsunenobu
Published: September 2020

In the present study, we characterize the nature of interface states in silicon carbide (SiC) metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) systems by analyzing the electrical characteristics of MOS field effect transistors (MOSFETs) based on the results of numerical calculations. In the calculation, the potential distributions and energy sub-bands were calculated by solving Poisson and Schrödinger equations, respectively. As a result, we demonstrate that the defect-induced localized levels in the bandgap are subjected to quantum confinement at the inversion layer, leading to the increase in their energy levels. The result implies that the conventional interface defects (e.g., near-interface oxide traps), which create defect states at certain energy levels measured from the vacuum level, are unlikely to be the major origin of the interface states in SiC MOS systems. The interface state density is almost uniquely determined by the oxide formation process (as oxidation or interface nitridation) and independent of the acceptor concentration (3 × 1015–1 × 1018 cm−3). It is also suggested that the drain current decrease observed in heavily doped MOSFETs is mainly due to the decrease in the drift mobility rather than that in the free carrier density.
Metallic nanoparticle production and exposure/deposition system for toxicological research applications using zebrafish
Authors: Nayek Subhayu , Aguilar Roberto , Juel Lauren A. , Verbeck Guido F.
Published: September 2020

Metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have been accepted for various applications ranging from cosmetics to medicine. However, no method has been established in the scientific community that is capable of analyzing various metals, sizes, and levels of exposures without the concern of background chemical contaminations. We present here a system utilizing soft-landing ion mobility (SLIM) exposures of laser ablated metallic clusters capable of operating pressures of reduced vacuum (1 Torr) up to ambient (760 Torr) in the presence of a buffer gas. Clusters experience kinetic energies of less than 1 eV upon exiting the SLIM, allowing for the exposure of NPs to take place in a passive manner. While there is no mass-selection of cluster sizes in this work, it does show for the first time the creation and soft-landing of nanoclusters at ambient pressures. Factors such as area coverage and percentage distribution were studied, as well as the different effects that varying surfaces may cause in the agglomeration of the clusters. Furthermore, the system was successfully used to study the effects of silver nanoparticle exposure and determine the specific organs the NPs accumulate in using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model organism. This method provides a novel way to synthesize NPs and expose biological organisms for various toxicological analysis.