bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with galectin-9 serum levels
Authors: Seifert Adrian M. , Reiche Charlotte , Heiduk Max , Tannert Anna , Meinecke Ann-Christin , Baier Stephanie , von Renesse Janusz , Kahlert Christoph , Distler Marius , Welsch Thilo , Reissfelder Christoph , Aust Daniela E. , Miller George , Weitz Jürgen , Seifert Lena
Published: February 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) responds poorly to checkpoint blockade, such as anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1. Galectin-9, a β-galactoside-binding lectin, promotes immune suppression through T-cell inhibition, and programming of tolerogenic macrophages. Of all cancers tested, PDAC showed the highest expression of LGALS9 (galectin-9) mRNA. We analyzed formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded specimens from 83 patients with PDAC stained for galectin-9. Using flow cytometry, we determined galectin-9 expression on immune cells from tumor and matched blood samples from 12 patients with resectable PDAC. Furthermore, we analyzed galectin-9 serum levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using serum samples from 70 patients with PDAC, from 36 individuals with benign pancreatic disease, and from 28 healthy controls. Galectin-9 was highly expressed in human PDAC compared with normal pancreas and present on both tumor and immune cells. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells, especially CD3+ T cells, showed upregulation of galectin-9 compared with immune cells from matched blood. Blood γδ T cells from PDAC patients had higher galectin-9 expression than γδ T cells from healthy individuals. Galectin-9 polarized macrophages toward a protumoral M2 phenotype leading to suppressed T-cell cytokine secretion. Furthermore, serum concentration of galectin-9 was able to discriminate PDAC from benign pancreatic disease and healthy individuals, and was prognostic for stage IV patients. Galectin-9 is a new biomarker for the detection of PDAC.
Dysregulation of the miR-148a–GLUT1 axis promotes the progression and chemoresistance of human intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Tiemin Pei , Peng Xiao , Qingfu lang , Yan Wang , Junlin Xue , Zhefeng He , Ming Zhao , Desen Liang , Qinghui Meng
Published: February 2020

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly fatal malignant cancer worldwide. Elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism of iCCA progression is critical for the identification of new therapeutic targets. The present study explored the role of the miR-148a–GLUT1 axis in the progression of iCCA. The expression of GLUT1 was detected by using immunohistochemistry, western blot assays, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The effects of GLUT1 on cell proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. A luciferase reporter assay was used to explore the effect of miR-148a on GLUT1 expression. GLUT1 was overexpressed in iCCA tissues. GLUT1 overexpression was associated with shorter overall and disease-free survival. Knockdown of GLUT1 reduced, while overexpression of GLUT1 promoted, the proliferation, motility, and invasiveness of iCCA cells in vitro and in vivo. Silencing GLUT1 significantly sensitized iCCA cells to gemcitabine in vitro and in vivo. GLUT1 was directly regulated by miR-148a, whose downregulation was associated with the proliferation, migration, and invasion of iCCA cells. WZB117, a GLUT1 inhibitor, inhibited tumor growth in an iCCA patient-derived xenograft model. These results indicate that downregulation of miR-148a levels results in GLUT1 overexpression in iCCA, leading to iCCA progression and gemcitabine resistance.
Comparative genomics: Dominant coral-bacterium Endozoicomonas acroporae metabolizes dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP)
Authors: Tandon Kshitij , Lu Chih-Ying , Chiang Pei-Wen , Wada Naohisa , Yang Shan-Hua , Chan Ya-Fan , Chen Ping-Yun , Chang Hsiao-Yu , Chiou Yu-Jing , Chou Ming-Shean , Chen Wen-Ming , Tang Sen-Lin
Published: February 2020

Dominant coral-associated Endozoicomonas bacteria species are hypothesized to play a role in the coral sulfur cycle by metabolizing dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) into dimethylsulfide (DMS); however, no sequenced genome to date harbors genes for this process. In this study, we assembled high-quality (>95% complete) draft genomes of strains of the recently added species Endozoicomonas acroporae (Acr-14T, Acr-1, and Acr-5) isolated from the coral Acropora sp. and performed a comparative genomic analysis on the genus Endozoicomonas. We identified DMSP CoA-transferase/lyase—a dddD gene homolog in all sequenced genomes of E. acroporae strains—and functionally characterized bacteria capable of metabolizing DMSP into DMS via the DddD cleavage pathway using RT-qPCR and gas chromatography (GC). Furthermore, we demonstrated that E. acroporae strains can use DMSP as a carbon source and have genes arranged in an operon-like manner to link DMSP metabolism to the central carbon cycle. This study confirms the role of Endozoicomonas in the coral sulfur cycle.
Long-living and highly efficient bio-hybrid light-emitting diodes with zero-thermal-quenching biophosphors
Authors: Espasa Anna , Lang Martina , Aguiño Carmen F. , Sanchez-deAlcazar Daniel , Fernández-Blázquez Juan P. , Sonnewald Uwe , Cortajarena Aitziber L. , Coto Pedro B. , Costa Rubén D.
Published: February 2020

Bio-hybrid light-emitting diodes (Bio-HLEDs) based on color down-converting filters with fluorescent proteins (FPs) have achieved moderate efficiencies (50 lm/W) and stabilities (300 h) due to both thermal- and photo-degradation. Here, we present a significant enhancement in efficiency (~130 lm/W) and stability (>150 days) using a zero-thermal-quenching bio-phosphor design. This is achieved shielding the FP surface with a hydrophilic polymer allowing their homogenous integration into the network of a light-guiding and hydrophobic host polymer. We rationalize how the control of the mechanical and optical features of this bio-phosphor is paramount towards highly stable and efficient Bio-HLEDs, regardless of the operation conditions. This is validated by the relationships between the stiffness of the FP-polymer phosphor and the maximum temperature reached under device operation as well as the transmittance of the filters and device efficiency.
A retrospective database study of oral corticosteroid and bisphosphonate prescribing patterns in England
Authors: Chalitsios Christos V. , Shaw Dominick E. , McKeever Tricia M.
Published: February 2020

Exposure to oral corticosteroids (OCS) is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Guidelines suggest bisphosphonate (BP) therapy as the first-line treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP). This population study used publicly available data, including prescription annual cost analysis and monthly practice-level data. Our aim was to examine the prescribing of OCS and BP at practice level and investigate reasons for variation using a mixed-effect negative binomial regression analysis. There was a rise in OCS and BP prescriptions of 55% and 1200% from 1998 to 2018, respectively. Of the 6586 included practices, the median (IQR) of OCS and BP prescriptions were 120.8 (84.8–160.4) and 107.7 (73.8–147.4) per 1000 patients, respectively. Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were significantly associated with OCS use (p < 0.0001), but only COPD was associated with BP use (p < 0.0001). Higher OCS prescribing rates were associated with higher BP prescribing rates (5th to 1st quintile—IRR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.88–2.10). Practice list size, deprivation and advanced age were all associated with both drugs (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, although OCS use is positively associated with BP prescription, variation among practices and CCGs exists. The variation in prescribing suggests there is still a need to improve GIOP prevention.
Quantum coherence and state conversion: theory and experiment
Authors: Wu Kang-Da , Theurer Thomas , Xiang Guo-Yong , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can , Plenio Martin B. , Streltsov Alexander
Published: February 2020

The resource theory of coherence studies the operational value of superpositions in quantum technologies. A key question in this theory concerns the efficiency of manipulation and interconversion of the resource. Here, we solve this question completely for qubit states by determining the optimal probabilities for mixed-state conversions via stochastic incoherent operations. Extending the discussion to distributed scenarios, we introduce and address the task of assisted incoherent state conversion, where the process is enhanced by making use of correlations with a second party. Building on these results, we demonstrate experimentally that the optimal state-conversion probabilities can be achieved in a linear optics setup. This paves the way towards real world applications of coherence transformations in current quantum technologies.
Combined lithotripsy of mechanical clamping and electrohydraulics in facilitating endoscopic management of refractory residual biliary calculi after surgery
Authors: Wen Xu-dong , Ren Li-na , Wang Tao , Wang Xiao-juan , Navarro-Alvarez Nalu , Li Liang-ping , Liu Wei-hui
Published: February 2020

Although postoperative cholangioscopy (POC) guided electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) is considered to be a conventional technique for residual biliary calculi, its efficacy still needs to be improved to fit in the managemet of refractory calculi. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of combined lithotripsy of mechanical clamping and electrohydraulics in fragmentation and removal of refractory calculi. Totally, 281 patients, who suffered from residual biliary calculi after hepatectomy and underwnet POC from August 2016 to June 2018 were involved. The first 128 patients were subjected to conventional EHL, and later consective 153 to combined lithotripsyof mechanical clamping and EHL. Perioperative data, technical information, treatment outcomes and follow-up results were collected. Clinical characteristics were statistically comparable (P > 0.05). The overall POC interventional sessions (2.0 ± 0.65 vs. 2.9 ± 1.21 sessions), average operating time (99.1 ± 34.88 vs. 128.6 ± 72.87 minutes), incidence of intraoperative hemobilia (4.58% vs. 10.93%), cholangitis (6.54% vs. 14.06%), postoperative complications (10.45% vs. 21.87%), T-tube retaining time after first POC (20.7 ± 5.35 vs. 28.1 ± 8.28 days), and treatment costs ($2375 ± 661.72 vs. $3456.7 ± 638.07) were significantly lower in the combined lithotripsy group than those in the EHL group (P < 0.05). There were no differences between the two groups in calculi recurrence at half-a year, or one year follow-up. In conclusion, combined lithotripsy of mechanical clamping and electrohydraulics can safely and effectively benefit postoperative patients along with refractory residual biliary calculi.
Composite diagnostic criteria are problematic for linking potentially distinct populations: the case of frailty
Authors: Chao Yi-Sheng , Wu Chao-Jung , Wu Hsing-Chien , Hsu Hui-Ting , Tsao Lien-Cheng , Cheng Yen-Po , Lai Yi-Chun , Chen Wei-Chih
Published: February 2020

Composite diagnostic criteria are common in frailty research. We worry distinct populations may be linked to each other due to complicated criteria. We aim to investigate whether distinct populations might be considered similar based on frailty diagnostic criteria. The Functional Domains Model for frailty diagnosis included four domains: physical, nutritive, cognitive and sensory functioning. Health and Retirement Study participants with two or more deficiencies in the domains were diagnosed frail. The survival distributions were analyzed using discrete-time survival analysis. The distributions of the demographic characteristics and survival across the groups diagnosed with frailty were significantly different (p < 0.05). A deficiency in cognitive functioning was associated with the worst survival pattern compared with a deficiency in the other domains (adjusted p < 0.05). The associations of the domains with mortality were cumulative without interactions. Cognitive functioning had the largest effect size for mortality prediction (Odds ratios, OR = 2.37), larger than that of frailty status (OR = 1.92). The frailty diagnostic criteria may take distinct populations as equal and potentially assign irrelevant interventions to individuals without corresponding conditions. We think it necessary to review the adequacy of composite diagnostic criteria in frailty diagnosis.
SLIM: Simultaneous Logic-in-Memory Computing Exploiting Bilayer Analog OxRAM Devices
Authors: Kingra Sandeep Kaur , Parmar Vivek , Chang Che-Chia , Hudec Boris , Hou Tuo-Hung , Suri Manan
Published: February 2020

von Neumann architecture based computers isolate computation and storage (i.e. data is shuttled between computation blocks (processor) and memory blocks). The to-and-fro movement of data leads to a fundamental limitation of modern computers, known as the Memory wall. Logic in-Memory (LIM)/In-Memory Computing (IMC) approaches aim to address this bottleneck by directly computing inside memory units thereby eliminating energy-intensive and time-consuming data movement. Several recent works in literature, propose realization of logic function(s) directly using arrays of emerging resistive memory devices (example- memristors, RRAM/ReRAM, PCM, CBRAM, OxRAM, STT-MRAM etc.), rather than using conventional transistors for computing. The logic/embedded-side of digital systems (like processors, micro-controllers) can greatly benefit from such LIM realizations. However, the pure storage-side of digital systems (example SSDs, enterprise storage etc.) will not benefit much from such LIM approaches as when memory arrays are used for logic they lose their core functionality of storage. Thus, there is the need for an approach complementary to existing LIM techniques, that’s more beneficial for the storage-side of digital systems; one that gives compute capability to memory arrays not at the cost of their existing stored states. Fundamentally, this would require memory nanodevice arrays that are capable of storing and computing simultaneously. In this paper, we propose a novel ‘Simultaneous Logic in-Memory’ (SLIM) methodology which is complementary to existing LIM approaches in literature. Through extensive experiments we demonstrate novel SLIM bitcells (1T-1R/2T-1R) comprising non-filamentary bilayer analog OxRAM devices with NMOS transistors. Proposed bitcells are capable of implementing both Memory and Logic operations simultaneously. Detailed programming scheme, array level implementation, and controller architecture are also proposed. Furthermore, to study the impact of proposed SLIM approach for real-world implementations, we performed analysis for two applications: (i) Sobel Edge Detection, and (ii) Binary Neural Network- Multi layer Perceptron (BNN-MLP). By performing all computations in SLIM bitcell array, huge Energy Delay Product (EDP) savings of ≈75× for 1T-1R (≈40× for 2T-1R) SLIM bitcell were observed for edge-detection application while EDP savings of ≈3.5× for 1T-1R (≈1.6× for 2T-1R) SLIM bitcell were observed for BNN-MLP application respectively, in comparison to conventional computing. EDP savings owing to reduction in data transfer between CPU ↔ memory is observed to be ≈780× (for both SLIM bitcells).
Three multi-allelic gene pairs are responsible for self-sterility in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis
Authors: Sawada Hitoshi , Yamamoto Kazunori , Yamaguchi Akira , Yamada Lixy , Higuchi Arata , Nukaya Haruhiko , Fukuoka Masashi , Sakuma Tetsushi , Yamamoto Takashi , Sasakura Yasunori , Shirae-Kurabayashi Maki
Published: February 2020

Many hermaphroditic organisms possess a self-incompatibility system to avoid inbreeding. Although the mechanisms of self-incompatibility in flowering plants are well known, little is known about the mechanisms of self-sterility in hermaphroditic marine invertebrates. Ascidians are hermaphroditic sessile marine invertebrates that release sperm and eggs into the surrounding seawater. Several species, includingCiona intestinalistype A(Ciona robusta), exhibit strict self-sterility. In a previous study, we found that the candidate genes responsible for self-sterility inCionareside in chromosome 2q (locus A) and chromosome 7q (locus B). Two pairs of multi-allelic genes, nameds(sperm)-Themis-Aandv(vitelline-coat)-Themis-Ain locus A ands-Themis-Bandv-Themis-Bin locus B, are responsible for self-sterility. In this study, we identified a third multi-allelic gene pair,s-Themis-B2andv-Themis-B2, within locus B that is also involved in this system. Genetic analysis revealed that the haplotypes ofs/v-Themis-A, s/v-Themis-Bands/v-Themis-B2play essential roles in self-sterility. When three haplotypes were matched betweens-Themisandv-Themis, fertilization never occurred even in nonself crossing. Interestingly, gene targeting of eithers/v-Themis-B/B2ors/v-Themis-Aby genome editing enabled self-fertilization. These results indicate thats/v-Themis-A, -Band-B2areS-determinant genes responsible for self-sterility in the ascidianC. intestinalistype A.
Distinct pressure half-time values by transthoracic echocardiography for grading of paravalvular regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Schröder Joerg , Almalla Mohammad , Saad Mohammed , Mezger Matthias , Keszei Andras , Frick Michael , Lotfi Shahram , Hoffmann Rainer , Becker Michael , Altiok Ertunc
Published: February 2020

Postprocedural aortic regurgitation (AR) has negative impact on patient outcome after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Standard assessment of AR severity by echocardiography is hampered after TAVR. Measurement of pressure half-time (PHT) by echocardiography is not limited in these patients but it may be affected by concomitant left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). This study sought to evaluate distinct cut-off values of PHT differentiating between patients without and with more than mild LVH for grading of AR after TAVR with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as the reference method for comparison. 71 patients (age 81 ± 6 years) with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR were included into the study. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and CMR were performed after TAVR. Left ventricular mass index was calculated by TTE. PHT was measured by continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography of aortic regurgitation jet. In 18 patients (25%) PHT could not be obtained due to no or very faint Doppler signal. Aortic regurgitant volume and regurgitant fraction were calculated by CMR by flow analysis of the ascending aorta. In 14 of 53 patients (26%) AR after TAVR was moderate or severe as categorized by CMR analysis. More than mild LVH was present in 27 of 53 patients (51%). PHT correlated inversely less to regurgitant fraction by CMR analysis in patients with LVH (r = −0.293; p = 0.138) than in patients without LVH (r = −0.455; p = 0.020). In patients without relevant LVH accuracy of PHT to predict moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation AUC was 0.813 using a cut-off value of 347 ms and AUC was 0.729 in patients with more than mild LVH using a cut-off value of 420 ms. Analysis of PHT by TTE with distinct cut-off values for patients without and with more than mild LVH allows detection of moderate or severe AR after TAVR as defined by CMR. In none of the patients in which PHT could not be measured AR was categorized as more than trace by CMR analysis.
Superparamagnetic state in La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 thin films obtained by rf-sputtering
Authors: Ramírez Camacho M. C. , Sánchez Valdés C. F. , Curiel M. , Sánchez Llamazares J. L. , Siqueiros J. M. , Raymond Herrera O.
Published: February 2020

A novel superparamagnetic state has been observed in high quality La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO) thin films directly grown by rf-sputtering on SiOx/Si(100) substrates. The films are nanostructured without grain boundaries, constituted by locally epitaxial nanoregions grown layer-by-layer with out-of-plane (012) preferential orientation, induced by the constrain of the native silicon oxide. Low magnetic field ZFC-FC magnetization curves show a cross-over from superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic state dependent of the thickness. The thicker film (140 nm) exhibits typical ferromagnetic order. The thinner films (40 and 60 nm) exhibit superparamagnetic behavior attributed to interacting ferromagnetic monodomain nanoregions with critical size, random in-plane oriented, where the inter-monodomain boundaries with surface spin-glass structure regulate the blocking of magnetization depending on the magnetic field intensity. M(H) hysteresis loops showed noticeable coercive fields in all samples, larger than those reported for LSMO. Such properties of half-metal LSMO film foresee potential integration in new Si-technology nanodevices in Spintronics.
Full annual monitoring of Subantarctic Emiliania huxleyi populations reveals highly calcified morphotypes in high-CO2 winter conditions
Authors: Rigual-Hernández A. S. , Trull T. W. , Flores J. A. , Nodder S. D. , Eriksen R. , Davies D. M. , Hallegraeff G. M. , Sierro F. J. , Patil S. M. , Cortina A. , Ballegeer A. M. , Northcote L. C. , Abrantes F. , Rufino M. M.
Published: February 2020

Ocean acidification is expected to have detrimental consequences for the most abundant calcifying phytoplankton speciesEmiliania huxleyi. However, this assumption is mainly based on laboratory manipulations that are unable to reproduce the complexity of natural ecosystems. Here,E. huxleyicoccolith assemblages collected over a year by an autonomous water sampler and sediment traps in the Subantarctic Zone were analysed. The combination of taxonomic and morphometric analyses together within situmeasurements of surface-water properties allowed us to monitor, with unprecedented detail, the seasonal cycle ofE. huxleyiat two Subantarctic stations.E. huxleyisubantarctic assemblages were composed of a mixture of, at least, four different morphotypes. Heavier morphotypes exhibited their maximum relative abundances during winter, coinciding with peak annual TCO2and nutrient concentrations, while lighter morphotypes dominated during summer, coinciding with lowest TCO2and nutrients levels. The similar seasonality observed in both time-series suggests that it may be a circumpolar feature of the Subantarctic zone. Our results challenge the view that ocean acidification will necessarily lead to a replacement of heavily-calcified coccolithophores by lightly-calcified ones in subpolar ecosystems, and emphasize the need to consider the cumulative effect of multiple stressors on the probable succession of morphotypes.
Radiogenomics predicts the expression of microRNA-1246 in the serum of esophageal cancer patients
Authors: Hoshino Isamu , Yokota Hajime , Ishige Fumitaka , Iwatate Yosuke , Takeshita Nobuyoshi , Nagase Hiroki , Uno Takashi , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: February 2020

Radiogenomics is a new field that provides clinically useful prognostic predictions by linking molecular characteristics such as the genetic aberrations of malignant tumors with medical images. The abnormal expression of serum microRNA-1246 (miR-1246) has been reported as a prognostic factor of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). To evaluate the power of the miR-1246 level predicted with radiogenomics techniques as a predictor of the prognosis of ESCC patients. The real miR-1246 expression (miR-1246real) was measured in 92 ESCC patients. Forty-five image features (IFs) were extracted from tumor regions on contrast-enhanced computed tomography. A prediction model for miR-1246real was constructed using linear regression with selected features identified in a correlation analysis of miR-1246real and each IF. A threshold to divide the patients into two groups was defined according to a receiver operating characteristic analysis for miR-1246real. Survival analyses were performed between two groups. Six IFs were correlated with miR-1246real and were included in the prediction model. The survival curves of high and low groups of miR-1246real and miR-1246pred showed significant differences (p = 0.001 and 0.016). Both miR-1246real and miR-1246pred were independent predictors of overall survival (p = 0.030 and 0.035). miR-1246pred produced by radiogenomics had similar power to miR-1246real for predicting the prognosis of ESCC.
Mysterious long-living ultrahigh-pressure or secondary impact crisis
Authors: Shumilova T. G. , Zubov A. A. , Isaenko S. I. , Karateev I. A. , Vasiliev A. L.
Published: February 2020

High-pressure glass has attracted interest in terms of both its fundamental state under extreme conditions and its possible applications as an advanced material. In this context, natural impact glasses are of considerable interest because they are formed under ultrahigh-pressure and high-temperature (UHPHT) conditions in larger volumes than laboratory fabrication can produce. Studying the UHPHT glasses of the unique giant Kara astrobleme (Russia), we found that the specific geological position of the UHPHT melt glass veins points to an origin from a secondary ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) melt according to the characteristics of the host suevites, which suggest later bottom flow. Here, we propose a fundamentally novel model involving an upward-injected UHP melt complex with complicated multi-level and multi-process differentiation based on observations of the UHP silica glass, single-crystal coesite and related UHP smectite that crystallized from an impact-generated hydrous melt. This model proposes a secondary UHP crisis during the modification stage of the Kara crater formation. The results are very important for addressing fundamental problems in fields as diverse as condensed matter states under extreme pressure and temperature (PT) conditions, material and geological reconstructions of impact structures, water conditions in mineral substances under UHP conditions in the deep Earth, and the duration and magnitude of the catastrophic effects of large asteroid impacts.
Chronic circadian misalignment accelerates immune senescence and abbreviates lifespan in mice
Authors: Inokawa Hitoshi , Umemura Yasuhiro , Shimba Akihiro , Kawakami Eiryo , Koike Nobuya , Tsuchiya Yoshiki , Ohashi Munehiro , Minami Yoichi , Cui Guangwei , Asahi Takuma , Ono Ryutaro , Sasawaki Yuh , Konishi Eiichi , Yoo Seung-Hee , Chen Zheng , Teramukai Satoshi , Ikuta Koichi , Yagita Kazuhiro
Published: February 2020

Modern society characterized by a 24/7 lifestyle leads to misalignment between environmental cycles and endogenous circadian rhythms. Persisting circadian misalignment leads to deleterious effects on health and healthspan. However, the underlying mechanism remains not fully understood. Here, we subjected adult, wild-type mice to distinct chronic jet-lag paradigms, which showed that long-term circadian misalignment induced significant early mortality. Non-biased RNA sequencing analysis using liver and kidney showed marked activation of gene regulatory pathways associated with the immune system and immune disease in both organs. In accordance, we observed enhanced steatohepatitis with infiltration of inflammatory cells. The investigation of senescence-associated immune cell subsets from the spleens and mesenteric lymph nodes revealed an increase in PD-1+CD44high CD4 T cells as well as CD95+GL7+ germinal center B cells, indicating that the long-term circadian misalignment exacerbates immune senescence and consequent chronic inflammation. Our results underscore immune homeostasis as a pivotal interventional target against clock-related disorders.
Butterfly-shaped magnetoresistance in triangular-lattice antiferromagnet Ag2CrO2
Authors: Taniguchi Hiroki , Watanabe Mori , Tokuda Masashi , Suzuki Shota , Imada Eria , Ibe Takashi , Arakawa Tomonori , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Ishizuka Hiroaki , Kobayashi Kensuke , Niimi Yasuhiro
Published: February 2020

Spintronic devices using antiferromagnets (AFMs) are promising candidates for future applications. Recently, many interesting physical properties have been reported with AFM-based devices. Here we report a butterfly-shaped magnetoresistance (MR) in a micrometer-sized triangular-lattice antiferromagnet Ag2CrO2. The material consists of two-dimensional triangular-lattice CrO2 layers with antiferromagnetically coupled S = 3/2 spins and Ag2 layers with high electrical conductivity. The butterfly-shaped MR appears only when the magnetic field is applied perpendicularly to the CrO2 plane with the maximum MR ratio (≈15%) at the magnetic ordering temperature. These features are distinct from those observed in conventional magnetic materials. We propose a theoretical model where fluctuations of partially disordered spins with the Ising anisotropy play an essential role in the butterfly-shaped MR in Ag2CrO2.
Author Correction: Relationship between body mass index and renal function deterioration among the Taiwanese chronic kidney disease population
Authors: Chang Tian-Jong , Zheng Cai-Mei , Wu Mei-Yi , Chen Tzu-Ting , Wu Yun-Chun , Wu Yi-Lien , Lin Hsin-Ting , Zheng Jing-Quan , Chu Nain-Feng , Lin Yu-Me , Su Sui-Lung , Lu Kuo-Cheng , Chen Jin-Shuen , Sung Fung-Chang , Lee Chien-Te , Yang Yu , Hwang Shang-Jyh , Wang Ming-Cheng , Hsu Yung-Ho , Chiou Hung-Yi , Kao Senyeong , Lin Yuh-Feng
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Surface plasmon enhanced Organic color image sensor with Ag nanoparticles coated with silicon oxynitride
Authors: Heo Sung , Lee Jooho , Lee Gae Hwang , Heo Chul-Joon , Kim Seong Heon , Yun Dong-Jin , Park Jong-Bong , Kim Kihong , Kim Yongsung , Lee Dongwook , Park Gyeong-Su , Cho Hoon Young , Shin Taeho , Yun Sung Young , Kim Sunghan , Jin Yong Wan , Park Kyung-Bae
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Functional analysis of new human Bardet-Biedl syndrome loci specific variants in the zebrafish model
Authors: Castro-Sánchez Sheila , Suarez-Bregua Paula , Novas Rossina , Álvarez-Satta María , Badano Jose L. , Rotllant Josep , Valverde Diana
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: PIC&RUN: An integrated assay for the detection and retrieval of single viable circulating tumor cells
Authors: Kamal Mohamed , Saremi Shahin , Klotz Remi , Iriondo Oihana , Amzaleg Yonatan , Chairez Yvonne , Tulpule Varsha , Lang Julie E. , Kang Irene , Yu Min
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
An expeditious method for the ultra-level chemosensing of uranyl ions
Authors: Halali Vishaka V. , Balakrishna R. Geetha
Published: February 2020

In this study, a new colorimetric chemosensor based on intramolecular charge transfer was designed for the qualitative and quantitative detection of uranyl ions at trace concentrations in environmental water samples.
Mass spectrometry reveals the assembly pathway of encapsulated ferritins and highlights a dynamic ferroxidase interface
Authors: Ross Jennifer , Lambert Thomas , Piergentili Cecilia , He Didi , Waldron Kevin J. , Mackay C. Logan , Marles-Wright Jon , Clarke David J.
Published: February 2020

Encapsulated ferritins assemble into an annular decamer structure via an iron-dependent assembly pathway where dimers associate to form the ferroxidase active site.
Two-in-one: construction of hydroxyl and imidazolium-bifunctionalized ionic networks in one-pot toward synergistic catalytic CO2fixation
Authors: Zhang Yadong , Chen Guojian , Wu Lei , Liu Ke , Zhong Hu , Long Zhouyang , Tong Minman , Yang Zhenzhen , Dai Sheng
Published: February 2020

Two-in-one hydroxyl-incorporated imidazolium ionic network was constructed in one-pot quaternization for enhancing synergistic catalytic conversion of CO2under mild conditions.
Synthesis, self-assembly and nonlinear optical activity of selenium-annulated perylene diimide
Authors: Huang Guo-Bin , Shen Lei , Liu Jie , Zhou Wen-Fa , Traskovskis Kaspars , Song Ying-Lin , Jiang Wei , Wang Zhao-Hui , Ren Xiang-Kui
Published: February 2020

A novel Se-annulated PDI derivative with a reverse saturable absorption characteristic and an optical limiting effect was designed and synthesized.
Favourable growth conditions for the preparation of bulk AlN single crystals by PVT
Authors: Hartmann C. , Matiwe L. , Wollweber J. , Gamov I. , Irmscher K. , Bickermann M. , Straubinger T.
Published: February 2020

A high seed temperature (2251 °C) reveals the highest deep UV transparency (α265nm = 27 cm−1), a high structural perfection (EPD = 9 × 103 cm−2) and a suitable growth rate (R = 200 μm h−1).
Steady semiconducting properties of monolayer PtSe2 with non-metal atom and transition metal atom doping
Authors: Zhao Xu , Huang Ranzhuo , Wang Tianxing , Dai Xianqi , Wei Shuyi , Ma Yaqiang
Published: February 2020

Based on density functional theory, the electronic structure and magnetic properties of monolayer PtSe2 doped with different atoms were studied.
G4 accuracy at DFT cost: unlocking accurate redox potentials for organic molecules using systematic error cancellation
Authors: Maier Sarah , Thapa Bishnu , Raghavachari Krishnan
Published: February 2020

This study presents a cost-effective error cancellation protocol to predict the redox potentials of 46 organic molecules with near-G4 accuracy.
Anti-Alzheimer's disease activity of secondary metabolites fromXanthoceras sorbifoliaBunge
Authors: Li Wei , Lu Qiuli , Li Xiang , Liu Hongcui , Sun Liangdi , Lu Xiao , Zhao Yuqing , Liu Peng
Published: February 2020

Xanthoceras sorbifoliaBunge is an edible oil tree species peculiar to China and it has long been used as a traditional medicine for enuresis in children. In this paper,X. sorbifoliawas found to have significant anti-Alzheimer's activity.
Theoretical study on the structure and electronic properties of alkylimidazolium iodide ionic liquids: the effect of alkyl chain length
Authors: Darabi Leila , Zare Morteza
Published: February 2020

Study on the cation–anion interaction energies of 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide ionic liquids using electronic structure calculations and investigation of their correlations with thermophysical properties.
Synthesis of gadolinium/iron–bimetal–phenolic coordination polymer nanoparticles for theranostic applications
Authors: Qin Jing , Liang Guohai , Feng Youyou , Feng Bingxi , Wang Gen , Wu Na , Zhao Yongxi , Wei Jing
Published: February 2020

Gd/Fe–bimetal–phenolic coordination polymer nanoparticles are successfully synthesized and used for enhanced T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and photothermal therapy.
Relation between work function and structural properties of triangular defects in 4H-SiC epitaxial layer: Kelvin probe force microscopic and spectroscopic analyses
Authors: Kim Hong-Ki , Kim Soo In , Kim Seongjun , Lee Nam-Suk , Shin Hoon-Kyu , Lee Chang Woo
Published: February 2020

In the defective SiC epitaxial layer, the work function variation was observed by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and the work function difference came from the variation of polytype and the disordered surface.
Concise synthesis of thiophene C-nucleoside analogues bearing sugar residues and aromatic residues through dimerization and sulfur heterocyclization of sugar alkynes and substituted iodoethynylbenzene
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Jia Tongtong , Luo Yang , Liu Hong , Zhang Fuyi , Zhao Yufen
Published: February 2020

The synthesis of thiophene C-nucleoside analogues has been achieved by symmetric dimerization of terminal sugar alkynes or unsymmetric dimerization of terminal sugar alkynes and substituted iodoethynylbenzene followed by sulfur heterocyclization.
Synthesis of α-functionalized ketones by visible-light promoted oxygenation of alkenes
Authors: Gong Xinchi , Zhu Chunyin , Ye Long-Wu
Published: February 2020

This article gives a short review on the visible-light promoted synthesis of α-functionalized ketones from alkenes.
Soybean straw biomass-derived Fe–N co-doped porous carbon as an efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction in both alkaline and acidic media
Authors: Liu Yong , Su Miaojun , Li Dahuan , Li Shenshen , Li Xiying , Zhao Junwei , Liu Fujian
Published: February 2020

Fe–N co-doped porous carbon (Fe–N–PC) was prepared by a facile one-step pyrolysis strategy using biomass soybean straw as the precursor, which exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic performance for ORR, excellent stability and methanol tolerance.
Mesenchymal stem cell interaction with Ti6Al4V alloy pre-exposed to simulated body fluid
Authors: Jarolimova Petra , Voltrova Barbora , Blahnova Veronika , Sovkova Vera , Pruchova Eva , Hybasek Vojtech , Fojt Jaroslav , Filova Eva
Published: February 2020

Titanium and its alloys are widely used for substitution of hard tissues, especially in orthopaedic and dental surgery.
Phase dependent encapsulation and release profile of ZIF-based biocomposites
Authors: Carraro F. , Velásquez-Hernández M. de J. , Astria E. , Liang W. , Twight L. , Parise C. , Ge M. , Huang Z. , Ricco R. , Zou X. , Villanova L. , Kappe C. O. , Doonan C. , Falcaro P.
Published: February 2020

We report two ternary phase diagrams that show the synthesis conditions to prepare protein@ZIF biocomposites with different phases, including BSA@ZIF-C and insulin@ZIF-C. For each biocomposite, we measured distinct encapsulation efficiency and release profile properties.
Phase separation and state oscillation of active inertial particles
Authors: Dai Chengyu , Bruss Isaac R. , Glotzer Sharon C.
Published: February 2020

We simulate an Active Inertial Particle (AIP) model and find that inertia reduces particle motility, suppresses phase separation and results in interesting oscillatory behavior between a phase separated steady-state and a homogeneous fluid state.
Rational design of pyrrolopyrrole-aza-BODIPY-based acceptor–donor–acceptor triads for organic photovoltaics application
Authors: Feng Ru , Sato Narumi , Yasuda Takuma , Furuta Hiroyuki , Shimizu Soji
Published: February 2020

Acceptor–donor–acceptor triads consisting of diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) or pyrrolopyrrole aza-BODIPY (PPAB) or both as acceptors and cyclopentadithiophene as a donor were rationally designed for near infrared (NIR) photovoltaics application.
Chemoenzymatic, biomimetic total synthesis of (−)-rugulosin B, C and rugulin analogues and their biosynthetic implications
Authors: Mondal Amit , Singh Shailesh Kumar , Manna Tanaya , Husain Syed Masood
Published: February 2020

Flavoskyrins, (−)-rugulosin B, C and rugulin analogues are synthesized chemoenzymatically from anthraquinones in two, three and four steps, respectively.
Short-wavelength probes in time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy: an extended view of the excited state dynamics in acetylacetone
Authors: Kotsina Nikoleta , Candelaresi Marco , Saalbach Lisa , Zawadzki Magdalena M. , Crane Stuart W. , Sparling Chris , Townsend Dave
Published: February 2020

Time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy using a vacuum ultraviolet probe brings new insight to the excited state dynamics operating in acetylacetone.
Insights into pressure tunable reaction rates for electrochemical reduction of CO2 in organic electrolytes
Authors: Shaughnessy Charles I. , Sconyers David J. , Lee Hyun-Jin , Subramaniam Bala , Blakemore James D. , Leonard Kevin C.
Published: February 2020

Modeling and simulation reveal the mechanistic basis for the pressure-tunable rates of CO2 reduction at elevated pressures of CO2.
Covalent triazine framework/carbon nanotube hybrids enabling selective reduction of CO2 to CO at low overpotential
Authors: Laemont Andreas , Abednatanzi Sara , Derakshandeh Parviz Gohari , Verbruggen Florian , Fiset Erika , Qin Qing , Van Daele Kevin , Meledina Maria , Schmidt Johannes , Oschatz Martin , Van Der Voort Pascal , Rabaey Korneel , Antonietti Markus , Breugelmans Tom , Leus Karen
Published: February 2020

Nitrogen-rich covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) were grown in situ onto surface-functionalized carbon nanotubes. These novel hybrid catalysts electrochemically reduce CO2 to CO with a faradaic efficiency up to 81% at an overpotential of 380 mV.
A strategy to control the grain boundary density and Cu+/Cu0 ratio of Cu-based catalysts for efficient electroreduction of CO2 to C2 products
Authors: Chen Chunjun , Sun Xiaofu , Yan Xupeng , Wu Yahui , Liu Mingyang , Liu Shuaishuai , Zhao Zhijuan , Han Buxing
Published: February 2020

Cu(OH)2/CuO nanocomposite-derived Cu2O/Cu achieves a total faradaic efficiency for C2 products of 65% via tuning the grain boundary density and Cu+/Cu0 ratio.
Antibody-coated microstructures for selective isolation of immune cells in blood
Authors: Li Jiyu , Liu Ya , Ren Jifeng , Tay Benjamin Zikai , Luo Tao , Fan Lei , Sun Dong , Luo Guannan , Lau Denvid , Marcos  , Lam Raymond H. W.
Published: February 2020

Selective immune cell isolation from diluted blood achieved with antibody-coated micropillar and micro-sieve structures in a microfluidic system.
Preparation of MoS2 nanoflowers with rich active sites as an efficient adsorbent for aqueous organic dyes
Authors: Xiao Xin , Wang Yihui , Cui Bowen , Zhang Xiaobo , Zhang Dongen , Xu Xingyou
Published: February 2020

In this study, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) was used as an adsorbent to quickly and efficiently remove Rhodamine B (RhB) from wastewater.
Simultaneous degradation and reduction of multiple organic compounds by poly(vinyl imidazole) cryogel-templated Co, Ni, and Cu metal nanoparticles
Authors: Tercan Melek , Demirci Sahin , Dayan Osman , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: February 2020

Simultaneous degradation of methylene blue, eosin Y and 4-nitrophenol reduction by p(vinyl imidazole)–Co cryogel composite catalyst in aqueous environments.
Synthesis, characterization and crystal structure of a copper-glutamate metal organic framework (MOF) and its adsorptive removal of ciprofloxacin drug from aqueous solution
Authors: Olawale Margaret D. , Tella Adedibu C. , Obaleye Joshua A. , Olatunji Juwon S.
Published: February 2020

A novel [Cu(Glu)2(H2O)]·H2O MOF proved to be an effective adsorbent for the removal of ciprofloxacin drug from aqueous solution with an adsorption capacity of 61.35 mg g−1.
Co5.47N loaded N-doped carbon as an efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst for a Zn–air battery
Authors: Rong Zichao , Dong Chenlong , Zhang Shaoning , Dong Wujie , Huang Fuqiang
Published: February 2020

Highly active bifunctional electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) play a pivotal role in Zn–air batteries.
Thermally reduced pillared GO with precisely defined slit pore size
Authors: Nordenström Andreas , Iakunkov Artem , Sun Jinhua , Talyzin Alexandr V.
Published: February 2020

The porous structure of tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)methane (TKAM)-pillared graphene oxide preserves after thermal reduction providing rare example of true pillared reduced GO material with precise slit pore size and sizable surface area.
Analysis of 17 elements in cow, goat, buffalo, yak, and camel milk by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Authors: Chen Lu , Li Xia , Li Zengmei , Deng Ligang
Published: February 2020

17 elements in cow, goat, buffalo, yak, and camel milk were determined by ICP-MS; element analysis combined with chemometrics can be used to distinguish milk types.
Light and magnetism dual-gated photoinduced electron transfer-reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization
Authors: Hu Lingjuan , Wang Qi , Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhao Haitao , Cui Zhe , Fu Peng , Liu Minying , Liu Nan , He Shengbao , Pang Xinchang , Qiao Xiaoguang
Published: February 2020

PET-RAFT polymerization can be reversibly ceased in the absence of light or under an external magnetic field with a novel raspberry-like γ-Fe2O3@CD nanocatalyst.
Achieving organic solar cells with efficiency over 14% based on a non-fullerene acceptor incorporating a cyclopentathiophene unit fused backbone
Authors: Cai Yao , Meng Lingxian , Gao Huanhuan , Guo Ziqi , Zheng Nan , Xie Zengqi , Zhang Hongtao , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Chen Yongsheng
Published: February 2020

An acceptor molecule with a cyclopentathiophene fused backbone, BCPT-4F, has been designed and synthesized. A power conversion efficiency of 14.23% was achieved for BCPT-4F based organic solar cells.
Promoter polymorphisms in the lncRNA-MIAT gene associated with acute myocardial infarction in Chinese Han population: a case–control study
Authors: Ma Ruchao , He Xiaohui , Zhu Xiaoyun , Pang Shuchao , Yan Bo
Published: February 2020

Background: Coronary atherosclerotic disease (CAD) is one of the greatest causes of death and disability around the world, and has emerged as a major public health problem. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the most serious type of CAD. Myocardial infarction (MI) association transcript (MIAT) has demonstrated that it plays an important role in AMI. Purpose: To investigate the association between MIAT promoter polymorphisms and AMI in Chinese Han population. Methods: A total of 212 AMI patients and 218 healthy controls were recruited. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-MIAT promoter polymorphisms (single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)) were obtained using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing techniques. Chi-square test was used to analyze the allele and genotype frequencies of each SNP in two groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association of each SNP with AMI. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) and haplotype analysis were performed using SHEsis software. A JASPAR database search predicts transcription factors transition of linked polymorphism in MIAT promoter. Results: Ten SNPs were found, including rs56371714, rs55892869, rs151057042, rs2157598, rs150465374, rs5761664, rs8142890, rs5752375, rs9608515 and rs1055293700, whereas rs1055293700 was found only in the control group. Single and logistic regression analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between rs5752375 and rs9608515 polymorphisms and AMI, while other sites had no relationship with AMI. These MI association polymorphisms may change the binding sites with transcription factor. Conclusions: The polymorphisms of lncRNA-MIAT promoter rs5752375 and rs9608515 were significantly associated with AMI in Chinese Han population. This result would be of clinical importance for the early diagnosis of AMI.
Accurate determination of transport block size for 5G new radio
Authors: Wu Hao
Published: February 2020

The data payload from the medium access control layer to the physical layer is referred to as the transport block (TB). In fifth‐generation new radio, the TB size is determined by using a formula due to large variations of available resource elements (REs) per resource block (RB). To ensure that a matching TB size can easily be scheduled in the retransmission instance, the reference number of REs is used to determine the TB size. As a result, the actual code rate may be much higher than the target code rate. This degrades the performance of the channel coding and increases the likelihood of the decoding failure. To solve these problems, the authors quantise the number of REs within the scheduled duration that are not available for the data transmission and the demodulation reference signal transmission. The difference between the reference number of REs of the traditional scheme and the quantised number is used to determine the TB size in the proposed scheme. Compared to the traditional scheme, the proposed scheme reduces the difference between the actual code rate and the target code rate.
180 GHz high‐gain cascode power amplifier in a 130 nm SiGe process
Authors: Li Xingcun , Chen Wenhua , Wang Yunfan , Feng Zhenghe
Published: February 2020

A positive feedback gain‐enhanced technique for power amplifiers has been introduced in this Letter. With the proposed circuit design method for optimal inductive feedback, a 180 GHz high‐gain single‐stage cascode power amplifier in a 130 nm SiGe process is implemented. The measurement results show a power gain of 10 dB and 20 GHz bandwidth with 110 mW dc power are achieved, and 6.5 dBm of output power referred to P1dB and 3.5% collector efficiency are attained. The chip area of the power amplifier is only 0.50 × 0.48 mm2.