bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High risk of septic complications following surgery for Crohn's disease in patients with preoperative anaemia, hypoalbuminemia and high CRP
Authors: Ghoneima Ahmed S. , Flashman Karen , Dawe Victoria , Baldwin Eleanor , Celentano Valerio
Published: November 2019

Aim

Bowel resection in Crohn's disease still has a high rate of complications due to risk factors including immune suppression, malnutrition and active inflammation or infection at the time of operating. In this study, we use serological levels and inflammatory markers to predict the potential of complications in patients undergoing resections for complicated Crohn's disease.

Methods

All patients undergoing laparoscopic bowel resection for Crohn’s disease from 5th of November 2012 to 11th of October 2017 were included in this retrospective observational study. Patients were divided into 4 groups scoring 0, 1, 2 or 3 depending on their pre-operative haemoglobin concentration (Hb), C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin (Alb) where 1 point was given for an abnormal value in each as detailed in the definitions. They were then grouped into a low risk group comprised of those scoring 0 and 1, and a high risk group for those scoring 2 and 3 and data was collected to compare outcomes and the incidence of septic complications.

Results

Seventy-nine patients were included. Eleven (13.9%) and 2 (2.5%) patients had 2 or 3 abnormal values of CRP, Alb and Hb and were categorized as high risk. High risk patients had a significantly higher rate of post-operative septic complications (30.7%) compared with low risk patients (10.6%) p value < 0.0001.

Conclusion

Pre-operative CRP, haemoglobin and albumin can serve as predictors of septic complications after surgery for Crohn’s disease and can therefore be used to guide pre-operative optimisation and clinical decision-making.
Autophagy as a consequence of seasonal functions of testis and epididymis in adult male European bison (Bison bonasus, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Tabecka-Lonczynska Anna , Mytych Jennifer , Solek Przemyslaw , Koziorowski Marek
Published: November 2019

The European bison is still an animal endangered with extinction, so by learning factors that regulate its reproduction, we can contribute to the survival of this species. On the other hand, autophagy is a dynamic, lisosomal, and evolutionary conserved process which is essential for animal cell survival, homeostasis, and differentiation. This process was demonstrated in many species and in many organs; however, information on the metabolic course of autophagy in the male reproductive system in seasonally reproducing species is lacking. Therefore, in this study, we examined for the first time several autophagy-related factors (mTOR, ULK1, Atg13, PI3K, beclin1, beclin2, Atg14, Atg5, Atg16L, LC3) in testicular and epididymal tissues obtained from adult male individuals of the European bison. We compared the level of gene expression, protein synthesis, and localization of autophagy-related factors between June, September, and December (before, during, and after reproductive activity, respectively). We confirmed that the induction of autophagy was at the highest level in the period after reproductive activity, i.e., in December, when a significant increase in the gene and protein expression was observed for the majority of these factors, probably to ensure cellular protection. However, autophagy was also clearly marked in September, during the intense spermatogenesis, and this may indicate a great demand for autophagy-related proteins required for the normal development of reproductive cells. Obtained results seem to confirm that autophagy pathway, as a consequence of seasonal reproduction, may control the normal course of spermatogenesis in the male European bison.
Nonlinear dynamic behaviour of severely corroded reinforced concrete columns: shaking table study
Authors: Ge Xiao , Dietz Matthew S. , Alexander Nicholas A. , Kashani Mohammad M.
Published: November 2019

A set of benchmark, medium scale, shaking table tests on corroded reinforced concrete (RC) columns is conducted with the aim of investigating the effects of corrosion damage on the nonlinear dynamic behaviour of RC bridge piers. The experimental programme consists of an uncorroded control specimen and two corroded RC column specimens, with identical structural details. An accelerated corrosion procedure is used to corrode the RC columns. The uncorroded and corroded specimens are subjected to far-field long duration ground motion excitations. The two corroded columns had 51% and 65% average mass loss ratios. The testing sequence includes slight, extensive, and complete damage levels, followed by an aftershock to examine the cascade effect on the nonlinear dynamic response of the proposed RC columns. The experimental results show that corrosion changes the failure mode of the RC columns, and has a significant negative impact on the residual strength (about 50% mass loss results in about 80% strength reduction) and drift capacity of RC columns.
Hidden Object Detection and Recognition in Passive Terahertz and Mid-wavelength Infrared
Authors: Kowalski M.
Published: November 2019

The study presents the comparison of detection and recognition of concealed objects covered with various types of clothing by using passive imagers operating in a terahertz (THz) range at 1.2 mm (250 GHz) and a mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) at 3–6 μm (50–100 THz). During this study, large dataset of images presenting various items covered with various types of clothing has been collected. The detection and classification algorithms aimed to operate robustly at high processing speed across these two spectrums. Properties of both spectrums, theoretical limitations, performance of imagers and physical properties of fabrics in both spectral domains are described. The paper presents a comparison of two deep learning–based processing methods. The comparison of the original results of various experiments for the two spectrums is presented.
Extended Modal Realism — a New Solution to the Problem of Intentional Inexistence
Authors: Thomas Andrew D.
Published: November 2019

Kriegel described the problem of intentional inexistence as one of the ‘perennial problems of philosophy’ (KriegelPhilosophical Perspectives21(1), 307–340, 2007: 307). In the same paper, Kriegel alluded to a modal realist solution to the problem of intentional inexistence. However, Kriegel does not state by name who defends the kind of modal realist solution he has in mind. Kriegel also points out that even what he believes to be the strongest version of modal realism does not pass the ‘principle of representation’ and thus modal realism is not an adequate solution to the problem of intentional inexistence. In this paper, I respond to Kriegel by defending a modal realist solution that he did not consider in 2007, called ‘extended modal realism’ (EMR). EMR is a version of modal realism where possible worlds are not completely isolated as they are under the Lewisian model. Rather, under EMR worlds are, in a way, spatiotemporally related. The fact EMR worlds are related allows EMR to sufficiently pass the principle of representation and thus can be deemed a legitimate solution to the problem of intentional inexistence. I conclude that either EMR can pass the principle of representation in some cases or, and I think the more sensible option, we give up on the principle of representation altogether.
Molecular profiling in gastroesophageal cancer—clinical routine and future perspective
Authors: Puhr Hannah Christina , Ilhan-Mutlu Aysegül
Published: November 2019

Although several large clinical trials have been conducted in order to investigate targeted inhibition of several molecular pathways in gastric cancer, only a limited number of targeted therapies have been introduced in clinical routine. Besides scientific interest, international guidelines recommend investigation of some distinct molecular alterations, which are associated with therapeutic consequences. These are (i) human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), (ii) programmed death receptor 1 (PD-L1) and (iii) microsatellite instability (MSI). There are some emerging markers, such as Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), which might also be associated with a favorable response to immunotherapy. These routine and potential markers will be further discussed in the scope of this short review.
Nutrition behaviour and compliance with the Mediterranean diet pyramid recommendations: an Italian survey-based study
Authors: Bracale Renata , Vaccaro Concetta M. , Coletta Vittoria , Cricelli Claudio , Gamaleri Francesco Carlo , Parazzini Fabio , Carruba Michele
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Adopting a Mediterranean-like dietary pattern may help in preventing several chronic diseases. We assessed the eating behaviour and compliance with the Mediterranean diet pyramid recommendations in Italy.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in subjects aged ≥ 20 years. A 14-question survey based on the updated Mediterranean diet pyramid was launched online from April 2015 to November 2016. At test completion, a personalized pyramid displaying the possible deficiencies and/or excesses was generated, that could be the basis to plan diet and lifestyle modifications.

Results

Overall, 27,540 subjects completed the survey: the proportion of females (75.6%), younger subjects (20.7%) and people with a University degree (33.1%) resembled those of the Italian population of Internet users rather than of the general population. 37.8% of participants declared a sedentary lifestyle, including 29.6% of those aged 20–29 years. A lower-than-recommended intake of all food categories included in the Mediterranean diet pyramid, along with excess of sweets, red and processed meats, emerged, that may affect health in the long term. Low adherence to recommendations was observed especially among females and older people. Notably, a discrepancy surfaced between the responders’ perceived and actual behaviour toward the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables (81.8% vs 22.7–32.8%, respectively).

Conclusions

The nutritional habits and lifestyle of Italian participants are poorly adherent to the Mediterranean diet recommendations. The personalized pyramid tool may help in raising the awareness of individuals and their families on where to intervene, possibly with the support of healthcare professionals, to improve their behaviour.

Level of evidence

Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
5G device-to-device communication security and multipath routing solutions
Authors: Celik Aslihan , Tetzner Jessica , Sinha Koushik , Matta John
Published: November 2019

Through direct communication, device-to-device (D2D) technology can increase the overall throughput, enhance the coverage, and reduce the power consumption of cellular communications. Security will be of paramount importance in 5G, because 5G devices will directly affect our safety, such as by steering self-driving vehicles and controlling health care applications. 5G will be supporting millions of existing devices without adequate built-in security, as well as new devices whose extreme computing power will make them attractive targets for hackers.This paper presents a survey of the literature on security problems relating to D2D communications in mobile 5G networks. Issues include eavesdropping, jamming, primary user emulation attack, and injecting attack. Because multipath routing emerges as a strategy that can help combat many security problems, particularly eavesdropping, the paper contains an extensive discussion of the security implications of multipath routing. Finally, the paper describes results of a simulation that tests three path selection techniques inspired by the literature. The simulation reveals that routing information through interference disjoint paths most effectively inhibits eavesdropping.
Impact of a Central-Line Insertion Site Assessment (CLISA) score on localized insertion site infection to prevent central-line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI)
Authors: Gohil Shruti K. , Yim Jennifer , Quan Kathleen , Espinoza Maurice , Thompson Deborah J. , Kong Allen P. , Bahadori Bardia , Tjoa Tom , Paiji Chris , Rudkin Scott , Rashid Syma , Hong Suzie S. , Dickey Linda , Alsharif Mohamad N. , Wilson William C. , Amin Alpesh N. , Chang Justin , Khusbu Usme , Huang Susan S.
Published: November 2019

Objective:

To assess the impact of a newly developed Central-Line Insertion Site Assessment (CLISA) score on the incidence of local inflammation or infection for CLABSI prevention.

Design:

A pre- and postintervention, quasi-experimental quality improvement study.

Setting and participants:

Adult inpatients with central venous catheters (CVCs) hospitalized in an intensive care unit or oncology ward at a large academic medical center.

Methods:

We evaluated CLISA score impact on insertion site inflammation and infection (CLISA score of 2 or 3) incidence in the baseline period (June 2014–January 2015) and the intervention period (April 2015–October 2017) using interrupted times series and generalized linear mixed-effects multivariable analyses. These were run separately for days-to-line removal from identification of a CLISA score of 2 or 3. CLISA score interrater reliability and photo quiz results were evaluated.

Results:

Among 6,957 CVCs assessed 40,846 times, percentage of lines with CLISA score of 2 or 3 in the baseline and intervention periods decreased by 78.2% (from 22.0% to 4.7%), with a significant immediate decrease in the time-series analysis (P < .001). According to the multivariable regression, the intervention was associated with lower percentage of lines with a CLISA score of 2 or 3, after adjusting for age, gender, CVC body location, and hospital unit (odds ratio, 0.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.06–0.34; P < .001). According to the multivariate regression, days to removal of lines with CLISA score of 2 or 3 was 3.19 days faster after the intervention (P < .001). Also, line dwell time decreased 37.1% from a mean of 14 days (standard deviation [SD], 10.6) to 8.8 days (SD, 9.0) (P < .001). Device utilization ratios decreased 9% from 0.64 (SD, 0.08) to 0.58 (SD, 0.06) (P = .039).

Conclusions:

The CLISA score creates a common language for assessing line infection risk and successfully promotes high compliance with best practices in timely line removal.
Text2Quit: an analysis of user experiences with a mobile smoking cessation program
Authors: Abroms L. C. , Heminger C. L. , Boal A. L. , Van Alstyne J. M. , Krishnan N.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Studies have shown that Text2Quit and other mobile cessation programs increase quit rates in adult smokers, but the mechanism of effects and user experiences are not well understood.

Aims

This study reports on participants' experiences with the program and explores aspects of the program that they liked and disliked.

Methods

Self-reported experiences of the program were collected through a follow-up survey conducted 1 month after enrollment (n = 185). Participant responses to open-ended items were dual coded by independent coders.

Results

Overall participants agreed that they liked the program (4.2/5), that the program was helpful (4.1/5) and that they would recommend the program to a friend (4.3/5). Top reasons for liking the program included that it served as a constant reminder of quitting (17.8%), the content (16.7%), the encouragement provided (13.3%), and the on-demand tools (12.2%). Top reasons for disliking the program were message frequency (20.5%), content (7.0%), and the lack of personal interaction (7.0%).

Conclusions

The constancy of messaging was both liked as a reminder and disliked as an annoyance. Future programs might be improved by pre-testing and customizing the content based on user preferences, and by adding in human interactions, while keeping a supportive tone and offering on-demand tools.
Nonlinear gyrokinetic Coulomb collision operator
Authors: Jorge R. , Frei B. J. , Ricci P.
Published: November 2019

A gyrokinetic Coulomb collision operator is derived, which is particularly useful to describe the plasma dynamics at the periphery region of magnetic confinement fusion devices. The derived operator is able to describe collisions occurring in distribution functions arbitrarily far from equilibrium with variations on spatial scales at and below the particle Larmor radius. A multipole expansion of the Rosenbluth potentials is used in order to derive the dependence of the full Coulomb collision operator on the particle gyroangle. The full Coulomb collision operator is then expressed in gyrocentre phase-space coordinates, and a closed formula for its gyroaverage in terms of the moments of the gyrocentre distribution function in a form ready to be numerically implemented is provided. Furthermore, the collision operator is projected onto a Hermite–Laguerre velocity space polynomial basis and expansions in the small electron-to-ion mass ratio are provided.
Interplay between Kelvin–Helmholtz and lower-hybrid drift instabilities
Authors: Dargent Jérémy , Lavorenti Federico , Califano Francesco , Henri Pierre , Pucci Francesco , Cerri Silvio S.
Published: November 2019

Boundary layers in space and astrophysical plasmas are the location of complex dynamics where different mechanisms coexist and compete, eventually leading to plasma mixing. In this work, we present fully kinetic particle-in-cell simulations of different boundary layers characterized by the following main ingredients: a velocity shear, a density gradient and a magnetic gradient localized at the same position. In particular, the presence of a density gradient drives the development of the lower-hybrid drift instability (LHDI), which competes with the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KHI) in the development of the boundary layer. Depending on the density gradient, the LHDI can even dominate the dynamics of the layer. Because these two instabilities grow on different spatial and temporal scales, when the LHDI develops faster than the KHI an inverse cascade is generated, at least in two dimensions. This inverse cascade, starting at the LHDI kinetic scales, generates structures at scale lengths at which the KHI would typically develop. When that is the case, those structures can suppress the KHI itself because they significantly affect the underlying velocity shear gradient. We conclude that, depending on the density gradient, the velocity jump and the width of the boundary layer, the LHDI in its nonlinear phase can become the primary instability for plasma mixing. These numerical simulations show that the LHDI is likely to be a dominant process at the magnetopause of Mercury. These results are expected to be of direct impact to the interpretation of the forthcoming BepiColombo observations.
Cyclospora cayetanensis infection in humans: biological characteristics, clinical features, epidemiology, detection method and treatment
Authors: Li Junqiang , Wang Rongjun , Chen Yuancai , Xiao Lihua , Zhang Longxian
Published: November 2019

Cyclospora cayetanensis, a coccidian parasite that causes protracted and relapsing gastroenteritis, has a short recorded history. At least 54 countries have documented C. cayetanensis infections and 13 of them have recorded cyclosporiasis outbreaks. Cyclospora cayetanensis infections are commonly reported in developing countries with low-socioeconomic levels or in endemic areas, although large outbreaks have also been documented in developed countries. The overall C. cayetanensis prevalence in humans worldwide is 3.55%. Among susceptible populations, the highest prevalence has been documented in immunocompetent individuals with diarrhea. Infections are markedly seasonal, occurring in the rainy season or summer. Cyclospora cayetanensis or Cyclospora-like organisms have also been detected in food, water, soil and some other animals. Detection methods based on oocyst morphology, staining and molecular testing have been developed. Treatment with trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (TMP–SMX) effectively cures C. cayetanensis infection, whereas ciprofloxacin is less effective than TMP–SMX, but is suitable for patients who cannot tolerate co-trimoxazole. Here, we review the biological characteristics, clinical features, epidemiology, detection methods and treatment of C. cayetanensis in humans, and assess some risk factors for infection with this pathogen.
A psychometric evaluation of the Family Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale among surrogate decision-makers of the critically ill
Authors: Pignatiello Grant A. , Irani Elliane , Tahir Sadia , Tsivitse Emily , Hickman Ronald L.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to report the psychometric properties, in terms of validity and reliability, of the Unconscious Version of the Family Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale (FDMSE).

Methods

A convenience sample of 215 surrogate decision-makers for critically ill patients undergoing mechanical ventilation was recruited from four intensive care units at a tertiary hospital. Cross-sectional data were collected from participants between days 3 and 7 of a decisionally impaired patient's exposure to acute mechanical ventilation. Participants completed a self-report demographic form and subjective measures of family decision-making self-efficacy, preparation for decision-making, and decisional fatigue. Exploratory factor analyses, correlation coefficients, and internal consistency reliability estimates were computed to evaluate the FDMSE's validity and reliability in surrogate decision-makers of critically ill patients.

Results

The exploratory factor analyses revealed a two-factor, 11-item version of the FDMSE was the most parsimonious in this sample. Furthermore, modified 11-item FDMSE demonstrated discriminant validity with the measures of fatigue and preparation for decision-making and demonstrated acceptable internal consistency reliability estimates.

Significance of results

This is the first known study to provide evidence for a two-factor structure for a modified, 11-item FDMSE. These dimensions represent treatment and palliation-related domains of family decision-making self-efficacy. The modified FDMSE is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used to measure family decision-making self-efficacy among surrogate decision-makers of the critically ill.
The Potential of Flight: U.S. Aviation and Pan-Americanism During the Early Twentieth Century
Authors: Bryne Alex
Published: November 2019

This article examines the formative years of flight in the United States and argues that Pan-Americanism served as a guiding ideology in the development of the nation's early aeronautic endeavors. With the advent of the airplane at the turn of the twentieth century, U.S. Pan-Americanists believed that aviation would provide a solution to the sociological and practical problems that hindered the development of international unity among the American republics. By physically transporting individuals, products, and cultural media rapidly across the hemisphere via the sky, aircraft would unite the peoples of Latin America and the United States and promote inter-American cooperation. To see the Pan-American potential of aircraft fulfilled, Pan-Americanists cooperated with private U.S. aviation organizations to expound the value of flight and to generate interest in aviation across the Western Hemisphere. Although a variety of Pan-American initiatives were successfully undertaken during the 1910s, the outbreak of the First World War hindered the movement and ultimately led to the transformation of aviation into a tool of U.S. imperialism in Latin America. By examining the origins of U.S. aviation through the lens of Pan-Americanism, this article seeks to reevaluate the pervading imperial narrative of the history of U.S. aviation in the Western Hemisphere.
Effect of processing conditions on the stability of native vitamin A and fortified retinol acetate in milk
Authors: Sachdeva Bhawana , Kaushik Ravinder , Arora Sumit , Khan Azhar
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the stability of vitamin A in fortified milk which was exposed to different processing conditions  viz. heat treatments (pasteurization, boiling and sterilization), light exposure treatments (1485, 2970 and 4455 lux for 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 h) and different packaging materials (polyethylene pouches and glass bottles) and also to evaluate the effect of fortified iron (ferric pyrophosphate soluble (FPP) and ferrous gluconate hydrate (FG) on vitamin A stability during processing and storage. Toned milk was fortified with 25 ppm iron and vitamin A acetate 2500 IU/L, singly and also in combination. The vitamin A analysis method was optimized and accuracy and precision were below ± 5%. The results indicated that vitamin A was heat-labile and its degradation increased with the increase in the intensity of heat treatments. Pasteurized milk (318.11 IU/L) showed non-significant (p > 0.05) decrease, however, boiling (250.21 IU/L) and sterilization (205.65 IU/L) showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in vitamin A content in comparison to control (324.71 IU/L). Similarly, vitamin A was light sensitive and its degradation significantly increased (p < 0.05) with an increase in the intensity of light exposure (34.82 to 92.53%). Loss of vitamin A (%) was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in iron-fortified milk suggesting that iron might have played a role in accelerating the degradation of vitamin A. Extent of losses were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in FG compared to FPP fortified milk. Vitamin A (microencapsulated form) which was added externally was more stable than the inherent vitamin A present in milk.
Effects of Biomass Burning on Stratocumulus Droplet Characteristics, Drizzle Rate, and Composition
Authors: Hossein Mardi Ali , Dadashazar Hossein , MacDonald Alexander B. , Crosbie Ewan , Coggon Matthew M. , Azadi Aghdam Mojtaba , Woods Roy K. , Jonsson Haflidi H. , Flagan Richard C. , Seinfeld John H. , Sorooshian Armin
Published: November 2019

This study reports on airborne measurements of stratocumulus cloud properties under varying degrees of influence from biomass burning (BB) plumes off the California coast. Data are reported from five total airborne campaigns based in Marina, California, with two of them including influence from wildfires in different areas along the coast of the western United States. The results indicate that subcloud cloud condensation nuclei number concentration and mass concentrations of important aerosol species (organics, sulfate, nitrate) were better correlated with cloud droplet number concentration (Nd) as compared to respective above‐cloud aerosol data. Given that the majority of BB particles resided above cloud tops, this is an important consideration for future work in the region as the data indicate that the subcloud BB particles likely were entrained from the free troposphere. Lower cloud condensation nuclei activation fractions were observed for BB‐impacted clouds as compared to non‐BB clouds due, at least partly, to less hygroscopic aerosols. Relationships between Nd and either droplet effective radius or drizzle rate are preserved regardless of BB influence, indicative of how parameterizations can exhibit consistent skill for varying degrees of BB influence as long as Nd is known. Lastly, the composition of both droplet residual particles and cloud water changed significantly when clouds were impacted by BB plumes, with differences observed for different fire sources stemming largely from effects of plume aging time and dust influence.
Publisher Correction: Efficiently measuring a quantum device using machine learning
Authors: Lennon D. T. , Moon H. , Camenzind L. C. , Yu Liuqi , Zumbühl D. M. , Briggs G. A. D. , Osborne M. A. , Laird E. A. , Ares N.
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Socioeconomic and environmental predictors of estuarine shoreline hard armoring
Authors: Peterson Nicole E. , Landry Craig E. , Alexander Clark R. , Samples Kevin , Bledsoe Brian P.
Published: November 2019

Rising sea levels and growing coastal populations are intensifying interactions at the land-sea interface. To stabilize upland and protect human developments from coastal hazards, landowners commonly emplace hard armoring structures, such as bulkheads and revetments, along estuarine shorelines. The ecological and economic consequences of shoreline armoring have garnered significant attention; however, few studies have examined the extent of hard armoring or identified drivers of hard armoring patterns at the individual landowner level across large geographical areas. This study addresses this knowledge gap by using a fine-scale census of hard armoring along the entire Georgia U.S. estuarine coastline. We develop a parsimonious statistical model that accurately predicts the probability of armoring emplacement at the parcel level based on a set of environmental and socioeconomic variables. Several interacting influences contribute to patterns of shoreline armoring; in particular, shoreline slope and the presence of armoring on a neighboring parcel are strong predictors of armoring. The model also suggests that continued sea level rise and coastal population growth could trigger future increases in armoring, emphasizing the importance of considering dynamic patterns of armoring when evaluating the potential effects of sea level rise. For example, evolving distributions of armoring should be considered in predictions of future salt marsh migration. The modeling approach developed in this study is adaptable to assessing patterns of hard armoring in other regions. With improved understanding of hard armoring distributions, sea level rise response plans can be fully informed to design more efficient scenarios for both urban development and coastal ecosystems.
Low temperature synthesis via molten-salt method of r-BN nanoflakes, and their properties
Authors: Chen Yang , Wang Xing , Yu Chao , Ding Jun , Deng Chengji , Zhu Hongxi
Published: November 2019

r-BN nanoflakes were synthesized using KBH4 and NH4Cl as the main raw material in a high-purity nitrogen atmosphere. The effects of salt and salt-free conditions and heating temperature on the synthesis of BN were studied. The molten-salt method was used to synthesize BN at 650 °C, which was 250 °C lower than the BN synthesis method without salt. Furthermore, at 1000 °C the prepared flake-like BN crystals showed good crystallinity, uniform morphology, a particle diameter of 200–300 nm, and a thickness of 40–70 nm. Moreover, the specific surface area of BN was 294.26 m2/g. In addition, the BN synthesized at 1100 °C had a large elastic modulus value and good oxidation resistance.
Potential of Pantoea dispersa as an effective biocontrol agent for black rot in sweet potato
Authors: Jiang Lingmin , Jeong Jae Chul , Lee Jung-Sook , Park Jeong Mee , Yang Jung-Wook , Lee Myoung Hui , Choi Seung Hee , Kim Cha Young , Kim Dae-Hyuk , Kim Suk Weon , Lee Jiyoung
Published: November 2019

Biocontrol offers a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides for the control of a variety of pre- and post-harvest diseases of crops. Black rot, which is caused by the pathogenic fungus Ceratocytis fimbriata, is the most destructive post-harvest disease of sweet potato, but little is currently known about potential biocontrol agents for this fungus. Here, we isolated several microorganisms from the tuberous roots and shoots of field-grown sweet potato plants, and analyzed their ribosomal RNA gene sequences. The microorganisms belonging to the genus Pantoea made up a major portion of the microbes residing within the sweet potato plants, and fluorescence microscopy showed these microbes colonized the intercellular spaces of the vascular tissue in the sweet potato stems. Four P. dispersa strains strongly inhibited C. fimbriata mycelium growth and spore germination, and altered the morphology of the fungal hyphae. The detection of dead C. fimbriata cells using Evans blue staining suggested that these P. dispersa strains have fungicidal rather than fungistatic activity. Furthermore, P. dispersa strains significantly inhibited C. fimbriata growth on the leaves and tuberous roots of a susceptible sweet potato cultivar (“Yulmi”). These findings suggest that P. dispersa strains could inhibit black rot in sweet potato plants, highlighting their potential as biocontrol agents.
Calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate synergistically enhances the balance between regulatory and proinflammatory T cells in a murine psoriasis model
Authors: Satake Kyosuke , Amano Toru , Okamoto Tadao
Published: November 2019

A topical medication combining calcipotriol (Cal) and betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) has proven effective in a number of randomized controlled trials performed in patients with psoriasis, but its mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated. We investigated whether the combination of Cal and BDP (Cal/BDP) in this topical medication had a synergistic effect on psoriasis-like dermatitis and explored the underlying immunological mechanisms in a murine psoriasis model induced by application of imiquimod. Cal/BDP synergistically inhibited ear thickening induced by imiquimod compared to monotherapy with either Cal or BDP. In addition, Cal/BDP significantly suppressed the interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17-producing T (T17) pathogenic axis, including expression of IL-17a, IL-23a, IL-22 and TNF-α mRNA in skin lesions and expansion of CCR6+ γδ T17 cells in the draining lymph nodes. Notably, Cal/BDP synergistically induced regulatory CD8+ T cells and also improved the balance between regulatory CD8+ or CD4+ T cells and proinflammatory CCR6+ γδ T17 cells in the draining lymph nodes. These results suggest synergistic anti-psoriatic activity of Cal/BDP with normalization of the imbalance between regulatory CD8+ or CD4+ T cells and proinflammatory CCR6+ γδ T17 cells, which contributes to successful control of psoriasis by Cal-BDP combination therapy.
Author Correction: Targeting CLDN18.2 by CD3 Bispecific and ADC Modalities for the Treatments of Gastric and Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhu Guoyun , Foletti Davide , Liu Xiaohui , Ding Sheng , Melton Witt Jody , Hasa-Moreno Adela , Rickert Mathias , Holz Charles , Aschenbrenner Laura , Yang Amy H. , Kraynov Eugenia , Evering Winston , Obert Leslie , Lee Chenyu , Sai Tao , Mistry Tina , Lindquist Kevin C. , Van Blarcom Thomas , Strop Pavel , Chaparro-Riggers Javier , Liu Shu-Hui
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Usefulness of peripapillary nerve fiber layer thickness assessed by optical coherence tomography as a biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sánchez Domingo , Castilla-Marti Miguel , Rodríguez-Gómez Octavio , Valero Sergi , Piferrer Albert , Martínez Gabriel , Martínez Joan , Serra Judit , Moreno-Grau Sonia , Hernández-Olasagarre Begoña , De Rojas Itziar , Hernández Isabel , Abdelnour Carla , Rosende-Roca Maitée , Vargas Liliana , Mauleón Ana , Santos-Santos Miguel A. , Alegret Montserrat , Ortega Gemma , Espinosa Ana , Pérez-Cordón Alba , Sanabria Ángela , Ciudin Andrea , Simó Rafael , Hernández Cristina , Villoslada Pablo , Ruiz Agustín , Tàrraga Lluís , Boada Mercè
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Properties and efficient scrap-and-build repairing of mechanically sheared 3’ DNA ends
Authors: Ohtsubo Yoshiyuki , Sakai Keiichiro , Nagata Yuji , Tsuda Masataka
Published: November 2019

Repairing of DNA termini is a crucial step in a variety of DNA handling techniques. In this study, we investigated mechanically-sheared DNA 3’-ends (MSD3Es) to establish an efficient repair method. As opposed to the canonical view of DNA terminus generated by sonication, we showed that approximately 47% and 20% of MSD3Es carried a phosphate group and a hydroxyl group, respectively. The others had unidentified abnormal terminal structures. Notably, a fraction of the abnormal 3’ termini (about 20% of the total) was not repaired after the removal of 3’ phosphates and T4 DNA polymerase (T4DP) treatment. To overcome this limitation, we devised a reaction, in which the 3’− > 5’ exonuclease activity of exonuclease III (3’− > 5’ exonuclease, insensitive to the 3’ phosphate group) was counterbalanced by the 5’− > 3’ polymerase activity of T4DP. This combined reaction, termed “SB-repairing” (for scrap-and-build repairing), will serve as a useful tool for the efficient repair of MSD3Es.
Outer surface interactions to drive cucurbit[8]uril-based supramolecular frameworks: possible application in gold recovery
Authors: Chen Li-Xia , Liu Ming , Zhang Yun-Qian , Zhu Qian-Jiang , Liu Jing-Xin , Zhu Bi-Xue , Tao Zhu
Published: November 2019

Q[8]-based honeycomb-like frameworks could be obtained in [AuCl4]− free aqueous HNO3 solution, aqueous HCl and HNO3 solutions that contain [AuCl4]−. These frameworks exhibit a high selectivity for imprisoning [AuCl4]−.
A hybrid camphor–camphene wax material for studies on self-propelled motion
Authors: Löffler Richard J. G. , Hanczyc Martin M. , Gorecki Jerzy
Published: November 2019

A new material that combines self-propelled motion with wax-like mechanical properties and can be formed into non-trivial shapes is presented.
Considerable matrix shift in the electronic transitions of helium-solvated cesium dimer cation Cs2He+n
Authors: Kranabetter Lorenz , Bersenkowitsch Nina K. , Martini Paul , Gatchell Michael , Kuhn Martin , Laimer Felix , Schiller Arne , Beyer Martin K. , Ončák Milan , Scheier Paul
Published: November 2019

Small atom, large effects: solvation of cesium dimer cation, Cs2+, by helium leads to large shifts in the electronic spectrum.
Mechanical properties and superconductivity in two-dimensional B2O under extreme strain
Authors: Li Hefei , Hao Yinqiao , Sun Dan , Zhou Dan , Liu Guangtao , Wang Hui , Li Quan
Published: November 2019

A new monolayer B2O is proposed with a cleavage energy of 26 meV Å−2.
Hydrogenation and N-alkylation of anilines and imines via transfer hydrogenation with homogeneous nickel compounds
Authors: Benitez-Medina G. Eliad , García Juventino J.
Published: November 2019

The nickel-catalyzed N-alkylation of a variety of arylamines via transfer hydrogenation in the absence of pressurized hydrogen and basic or acidic additives was achieved in a tandem reaction.
Identifying mechanisms underlying the amelioration effect ofChrysanthemum morifoliumRamat. ‘Boju’ extract on hyperuricemia using biochemical characterization and UPLC-ESI-QTOF/MS-based metabolomics
Authors: Peng An , Lin Lianzhu , Zhao Mouming , Sun Baoguo
Published: November 2019

This study was aimed at evaluating the prospect of edible chrysanthemum extract as a potential substance for the prevention and treatment of hyperuricemia.
Direct extraction of copper from copper sulfide minerals using deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Anggara Syahrie , Bevan Francesca , Harris Robert C. , Hartley Jennifer M. , Frisch Gero , Jenkin Gawen R. T. , Abbott Andrew P.
Published: November 2019

Copper can be extracted from the main copper mineral, chalcopyrite, without the formation of hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide.
Less may be more: an informed reflection on molecular descriptors for drug design and discovery
Authors: Barnard Trent , Hagan Harry , Tseng Steven , Sosso Gabriele C.
Published: November 2019

The phenomenal advances of machine learning in the context of drug design have led to the development of a plethora of molecular descriptors. And yet, there might be value in using just a handful of them – inspired by our physical intuition.
Effects of mercuric chloride on spatial memory deficit-induced by beta-amyloid and evaluation of mitochondrial function markers in the hippocampus of rats
Authors: Behzadfar Ladan , Hassani Shokoufeh , Feizpour Hossein , Abbasian Nakisa , Salek Maghsoudi Armin , Taghizadeh Ghorban , Pourahmad Jalal , Sharifzadeh Mohammad
Published: November 2019

Mercury is a highly poisonous heavy metal abundantly found in the environment in its inorganic form. Although evidence have been provided about the possible role of inorganic mercury in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), its effect on cognitive and mitochondrial functions have not yet been completely understood. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of the chronic exposure to mercuric chloride (0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 mg kg−1 per day for 3 weeks) through drinking water (by gavage) on spatial learning and memory and hippocampal mitochondrial function in beta-amyloid treated rats (1 μg per μL per side, intrahippocampally). The acquisition and retention of spatial memory were evaluated by the Morris water maze (MWM) test. Several parameters of hippocampal mitochondrial function were also measured. The results indicated that mercury impaired spatial learning and memory as well as aggravated Aβ-induced memory impairments in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, mercury exposure resulted in a significant increase in ROS generation, MMP collapse, mitochondrial swelling, glutathione oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and outer membrane damage. In addition, a reduced cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV) activity and elevated ADP/ATP ratio in the rats’ hippocampus was also observed. The findings of the current study revealed that chronic mercury exposure led to mitochondrial dysfunction, which resulted in spatial memory impairments. The results also showed that mercury can exacerbate the toxic effects of Aβ on spatial memory and hippocampal mitochondrial function.
Thermodynamic and spectroscopic study of Cu(ii) and Zn(ii) complexes with the (148–156) peptide fragment of C4YJH2, a putative metal transporter ofCandida albicans
Authors: Bellotti Denise , Tocchio Cinzia , Guerrini Remo , Rowińska-Żyrek Magdalena , Remelli Maurizio
Published: November 2019

The linker sequence between the two main Cu(ii) and Zn(ii) coordination sites of C4YJH2, a putative metal transporter ofCandida albicans, contributes in a non-negligible way to the protein chelating capability.
Determination of fast gas–liquid reaction kinetics in flow
Authors: Zhang Jisong , Teixeira Andrew R. , Zhang Haomiao , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: November 2019

A flow concept is developed to measure fast gas–liquid reaction kinetics based on a tube-in-tube reactor.
Improving the surface insulating performance of epoxy resin/Al2O3 composite materials by extending chain of liquid epoxy resin with Me‐THPA
Authors: Zhao Yushun , He Yuanhan , Yang Kerong , Wang Xuepei , Bai Jinhui , Du Bin
Published: November 2019

Basin‐type insulators are made by epoxy resin composite materials. Curing defects are easily formed in basin‐type insulators, and degrade their insulating performances. High curing exothermic rates of epoxy resin composite materials have deemed as the main cause of curing defects formation. In this study, methyl tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (Me‐THPA) was used to extend the molecular chain of liquid epoxy resin to prepare epoxy resin composite materials with low curing exothermic rates. Curing exothermic properties, molecular weight distribution, curing stress, microstructures, and surface flashover characteristics of the composite materials were investigated. The results showed that chain‐extended epoxy resin had low curing exothermic rates. The curing stress of the chain‐extended epoxy resin composite materials was small. The curing defects forming in the composite materials were inhibited. Negative DC surface flashover characteristics of these composite materials were improved. Furthermore, variation of functional groups of the composite materials was studied before and after surface flashover tests. Results showed that the content of carbon–oxygen single bonds (–C–O) in the chain‐extended epoxy resin composite materials was observed to decrease. The –C–O bonds also affect the voltage withstand capability of the epoxy resin composite materials.
Ultra‐compact 3 × 3 Nolen matrix beamforming network
Authors: Ren Han , Zhang Hanxiang , Arigong Bayaner
Published: November 2019

A novel compact 3 × 3 Nolen matrix beamforming network is proposed in this study. Unlike the Butler matrix and Blass matrix, in this design, the proposed feeding network only requires couplers and phase shifters and removes crossovers and load terminations. To minimise the size, the authors’ proposed novel Nolen matrix is realised by lumped‐element couplers. First, the design theory for 3 × 3 Nolen matrix is derived, and the associated pyramidal layout consisting of three couplers with two coupling ratios and three‐phase shifters is proposed. Based on the determined topology, the S‐parameters of the proposed feeding network and desired coupling ratios are derived, and it is found that the phase differences among the output ports are dependent on the characteristics of the couplers. Then, each coupler is realised by using lumped‐elements (including inductors and capacitors) in the proposed topologies, where the values of the elements are obtained by analysing the ABCD‐matrix of the branch lines in the couplers. To verify the proposed concept, an experimental prototype working at 1 GHz is fabricated and tested. The simulation and measurement results agree well with each other, and an ultra‐compact size 0.17λ × 0.06λ is implemented to achieve more than 90% size reduction comparing with the previous designs.
Coupled‐inductor‐based high‐gain converter utilising magnetising inductance to achieve soft‐switching with low voltage stress on devices
Authors: Upadhyay Prashant , Kumar Rajneesh , Sathyan Shelas
Published: November 2019

This work proposes a soft‐switched quadratic quadrupler boost converter with high voltage step up gain and low voltage stress on devices. With this converter topology, high voltage gain is achieved at low duty ratio operation of MOSFETs and few number of turns in coupled inductor. Operation at low duty ratio keeps boost converter gain in linear region and smaller number of turns in coupled inductor reduces the lossy part of the winding. Further, the magnetising inductance of coupled inductor is utilised to achieve zero voltage switching of MOSFETs to minimise the switching loss. In addition, secondary side diodes are operating under zero current switching conditions using resonance between leakage inductance and the capacitors of voltage quadrupler circuit. This greatly reduces the reverse recovery losses of the secondary side diodes. A detailed analysis of converter dynamics is discussed in one of the subsections to find out small‐signal transfer functions with respect to variations in input voltage and duty ratio variation of MOSFETs. A 250 W prototype of the proposed converter is built and tested in laboratory with a maximum efficiency of ∼93% at 175 W output power.
Virtual synchronous generator strategy for suppressing output power fluctuation without additional energy storage
Authors: Sheng Wanxing , Wang Yawei , Liu Bangyin , Duan Shanxu , Wu Ming
Published: November 2019

The virtual synchronous generator (VSG) is beneficial to reduce the fluctuation of the output power of the renewable energy sources, but its output power characteristics are sensitive to the disturbance of the grid frequency. Grid frequency disturbance causes the oscillation of the output power of the VSG‐controlled grid‐tied converter. In order to solve this problem, a virtual inertial control method for renewable energy sources without additional energy storage is proposed. In the view of renewable power generation, the renewable energy source behaves as a VSG, which minimises the impact of power generation disturbances on frequency characteristics. In the view of grid frequency disturbance, the renewable energy source behaves as a droop‐controlled grid‐tied converter, which adapts to the grid frequency to avoid the power oscillation of grid‐tied renewable power source caused by the grid frequency disturbance. Grid frequency is introduced into the closed loop control through feedforward techniques, and the frequency extraction method is implemented based on a frequency‐locked loop (FLL) modified by a moving average filter. Based on the small‐signal model of the proposed VSG method, the influence of the equivalent FLL gain and time constant is analysed. The experimental results verify the performance improvement of the modified VSG method.