bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the interchangeability of sea-surface and near-surface air temperature anomalies in climatologies
Authors: Rubino Angelo , Zanchettin Davide , De Rovere Francesco , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: May 2020

On global and hemispheric scales, sea-surface temperature (SST) anomalies are assumed to be good surrogates for near-surface marine air temperature (MAT) anomalies. In fact, global gridded temperature datasets commonly blend SST and near-surface air temperature anomalies to overcome the lack of geographically homogeneous and reliable MAT observations. Here, we show that SST and MAT anomalies differ regarding crucial statistical properties such as multiannual trends and probabilistic distributions of daily and monthly averages. We provide evidence of the lack of interchangeability from an array of moored buoys in the tropical Pacific Ocean. We identify statistically significant discrepancies between SST and MAT anomalies for single as well as groups of such buoys. Thus, caution is required when characterizing and interpreting MAT variability through SST observations, especially at shorter than decadal timescale.
Adherence with brand versus generic bisphosphonates among osteoporosis patients: a new-user cohort study in the French National Healthcare Insurance database
Authors: Viprey Marie , Xue Yufeng , Rousseau Aurélie , Payet Cécile , Chapurlat Roland , Caillet Pascal , Dima Alexandra , Schott Anne-Marie
Published: May 2020

Several studies documented declines in treatment adherence with generic forms of oral bisphosphonates in osteoporosis compared to branded forms, while others did not support this relation. Our aim was to compare medication adherence with brand versus generic forms of oral bisphosphonates. A new-user cohort study was conducted using routinely collected administrative and healthcare data linked at the individual level extracted from a nationwide representative sample of the French National Healthcare Insurance database. We included all patients aged 50 and older, new users of oral bisphosphonates for primary osteoporosis between 01/01/2009 and 31/12/2015. Two components of adherence were measured: implementation (continuous multiple-interval measure of medication availability version 7; CMA7) and persistence (time to discontinuation). The sample was composed of 1,834 in the “brand bisphosphonate” group and 1,495 patients in the “generic bisphosphonate” group. Initiating oral bisphosphonate treatment with brand was associated with a higher risk of discontinuation within 12 months (Hazard Ratio = 1.08; 95%CI = [1.02;1.14]). The risk of good implementation (CMA7 ≥ 0.90) was significantly lower in “brand bisphosphonate” group (Risk Ratio = 0.90; 95%CI = [0.85; 0.95]). We did not find any evidence to support the hypothesis of a lower adherence to generic bisphosphonates. In fact, prescribing of generic bisphosphonates led to a higher persistence rate and to better implementation at 1 year.
Topical rifampicin for prevention of deep sternal wound infections in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: De Santo Luca Salvatore , Rubino Antonino Salvatore , Torella Michele , De Feo Marisa , Galgano Viviana , Guarente Nicola , Mango Emilio , Savarese Leonardo , Iorio Francesco , Zebele Carlo
Published: May 2020

Deep sternal wound infections (DSWI), although an infrequent complication, significantly impair postoperative outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. Among several preventive strategies, topical antibiotic therapy immediately before sternal closure has been strongly advocated. In this retrospective analysis, the incidence of DSWI in 517 patients undergoing isolated CABG and receiving rifampicin irrigation of mediastinum, sternum and suprasternal tissues was compared to an historical consecutive cohort of 448 patients. To account for the inherent selection bias, a 1:1 propensity matched analysis was performed. Patients receiving topical rifampicin experienced significantly less occurrence of postoperative DSWI (0.2% vs 2.5%, p = 0.0016 in the unmatched analysis; 0.3% vs 2.1%, p = 0.0391 in the matched analysis). Intensive care unit stay, hospital stay, and operative mortality were similar between groups. This study shows that topical rifampicin in combination with commonly prescribed preventative strategies significantly reduces the incidence of DSWI to less than 0.3% in unselected patients undergoing a full median sternotomy for CABG. Further studies, including a larger number of patients and with a randomization design, would establish the potential preventative role of topical rifampicin in reducing the occurrence of DSWI.
The Jurassic magmatism of the Demerara Plateau (offshore French Guiana) as a remnant of the Sierra Leone hotspot during the Atlantic rifting
Authors: Basile Christophe , Girault Igor , Paquette Jean-Louis , Agranier Arnaud , Loncke Lies , Heuret Arnauld , Poetisi Ewald
Published: May 2020

We report the discovery of 173.4 Ma hotspot-related magmatic rocks in the basement of the Demerara Plateau, offshore French Guiana and Suriname. According to plate reconstructions, a single hotspot may be responsible for the magmatic formation of (1) both the Demerara Plateau (between 180 and 170 Ma) and the Guinea Plateau (circa 165 Ma) during the end of the Jurassic rifting of the Central Atlantic; (2) both Sierra Leone and Ceara Rises (mainly from 76 to 68 Ma) during the upper Cretaceous oceanic spreading of the Equatorial Atlantic ocean; (3) the Bathymetrists seamount chain since the upper Cretaceous. The present-day location of the inferred Sierra Leone hotspot should be 100 km west of the Knipovich Seamount.
Ecosystem state change in the Arabian Sea fuelled by the recent loss of snow over the Himalayan-Tibetan Plateau region
Authors: Goes Joaquim I. , Tian Hongzhen , Gomes Helga do Rosario , Anderson O. Roger , Al-Hashmi Khalid , deRada Sergio , Luo Hao , Al-Kharusi Lubna , Al-Azri Adnan , Martinson Douglas G.
Published: May 2020

The recent trend of global warming has exerted a disproportionately strong influence on the Eurasian land surface, causing a steady decline in snow cover extent over the Himalayan-Tibetan Plateau region. Here we show that this loss of snow is undermining winter convective mixing and causing stratification of the upper layer of the Arabian Sea at a much faster rate than predicted by global climate models. Over the past four decades, the Arabian Sea has also experienced a profound loss of inorganic nitrate. In all probability, this is due to increased denitrification caused by the expansion of the permanent oxygen minimum zone and consequent changes in nutrient stoichiometries. These exceptional changes appear to be creating a niche particularly favorable to the mixotroph, Noctiluca scintillans which has recently replaced diatoms as the dominant winter, bloom forming organism. Although Noctiluca blooms are non-toxic, they can cause fish mortality by exacerbating oxygen deficiency and ammonification of seawater. As a consequence, their continued range expansion represents a significant and growing threat for regional fisheries and the welfare of coastal populations dependent on the Arabian Sea for sustenance.
Analysis of corneal real astigmatism and high order aberration changes that cause visual disturbances after lower eyelid epiblepharon repair surgery
Authors: Lee Dong Cheol
Published: May 2020

This retrospective, cross-sectional study investigated changes in corneal low and high order aberrations (LOAs and HOAs) after lower eyelid epiblepharon repair surgery. In total, 108 eyes from 54 patients were evaluated. Wavefront analyses for calibrated LOAs and HOAs were performed using a Galilei G4 Dual Scheimpflug Analyzer before surgery and during the first and second follow-ups (f/u), adjusting for several risk factors. Flat keratometry (K) and axis values decreased significantly from baseline at the first f/u. At the second f/u, mean K and axis values decreased. Coma and trefoil increased from baseline at the first f/u and normalized by the second f/u. Spherical aberrations (SA) only decreased at the second f/u. After correction for risk factors, cylinder, coma, trefoil, and SA significantly increased at the first f/u; axis and flat K values decreased. At the second f/u, cylinder increased while axis and mean K values significantly decreased. Epiblepharon repair surgery may result in a shift from ‘with-the-rule’ to ‘against-the-rule’ axis change. Flat K, coma, and trefoil may be affected by mechanical force changes immediately post-surgery, while mean K values and SA may also change with corneal state changes including corneal erosion healing after the second f/u during the postoperative period.
Challenges to rutile-based geoscientific tools: low-temperature polymorphic TiO2 transformations and corresponding reactive pathways
Authors: Pinto André Jorge , Sanchez-Pastor Nuria , Callegari Ivan , Pracejus Bernhard , Scharf Andreas
Published: May 2020

Rutile, a common accessory mineral in a wide variety of rocks, is the most stable naturally occurring TiO2 polymorph. The relationship between its trace element composition and formation conditions has provided geoscientists with discriminant tools for fingerprinting geological processes, such as magmatic evolution and subduction zone metamorphism, alongside applications to the study of sediment provenance. In the present work, volcaniclastic rock samples belonging to Fara and Saiq Formations, outcropping in Jebel Akhdar mountains, Oman, are studied with Raman spectroscopy and Electron Microprobe (EMP) aiming: of (i) the identification of different naturally-occurring TiO2 polymorphs, (ii) the evaluation of their trace element contents in relation with hydrothermal alteration features, and (iii) the analysis of the mineral reactive pathways behind the observed textural relationships. Raman investigations demonstrated that interstitial, fine-grained TiO2 corresponds to anatase, whereas rutile occurs as isolated single grains. EMP determinations further revealed that an identified Nb-enrichment in anatase is coupled with a corresponding Nb-depletion in rutile. The combination of the obtained results with petrographic observations enabled unravelling the TiO2 reactive pathways affecting the studied samples. Thus, a coupled polymorphic dissolution-precipitation reaction assisting rutile-to-anatase conversion has been defined, together with the role of Nb in further stabilizing the structure of the lower temperature polymorph. Semi-quantitative thermometric considerations suggest that rutile substrates are likely of magmatic origin, whereas anatase formation is clearly associated with a lower temperature aqueous environment. The gathered results raise fundamental questions concerning the application of commonly used rutile-based geochemical and thermometric tools.
Electronegativity and doping in Si1-xGex alloys
Authors: Christopoulos Stavros-Richard G. , Kuganathan Navaratnarajah , Chroneos Alexander
Published: May 2020

Silicon germanium alloys are technologically important in microelectronics but also they are an important paradigm and model system to study the intricacies of the defect processes on random alloys. The key in semiconductors is that dopants and defects can tune their electronic properties and although their impact is well established in elemental semiconductors such as silicon they are not well characterized in random semiconductor alloys such as silicon germanium. In particular the impact of electronegativity of the local environment on the electronic properties of the dopant atom needs to be clarified. Here we employ density functional theory in conjunction with special quasirandom structures model to show that the Bader charge of the dopant atoms is strongly dependent upon the nearest neighbor environment. This in turn implies that the dopants will behave differently is silicon-rich and germanium-rich regions of the silicon germanium alloy.
Inhibitory action of phenothiazinium dyes against Neospora caninum
Authors: Pereira Luiz Miguel , Mota Caroline Martins , Baroni Luciana , Bronzon da Costa Cássia Mariana , Brochi Jade Cabestre Venancio , Wainwright Mark , Mineo Tiago Wilson Patriarca , Braga Gilberto Úbida Leite , Yatsuda Ana Patrícia
Published: May 2020

Neospora caninum is an Apicomplexan parasite related to important losses in livestock, causing abortions and decreased fertility in affected cows. Several chemotherapeutic strategies have been developed for disease control; however, no commercial treatment is available. Among the candidate drugs against neosporosis, phenothiazinium dyes, offer a low cost-efficient approach to parasite control. We report the anti-parasitic effects of the phenothiaziums Methylene Blue (MB), New Methylene Blue (NMB), 1,9–Dimethyl Methylene Blue (DMMB) and Toluidine Blue O (TBO) on N. caninum, using in vitro and in vivo models. The dyes inhibited parasite proliferation at nanomolar concentrations (0.019–1.83 μM) and a synergistic effect was achieved when Methylene Blue was combined with New Methylene Blue (Combination Index = 0.84). Moreover, the phenothiazinium dyes improved parasite clearance when combined with Pyrimethamine (Pyr). Combination of Methylene Blue + 1,9–Dimethyl Methylene Blue demonstrated superior efficacy compared to Pyrimethamine based counterparts in an in vivo model of infection. We also observed that Methylene Blue, New Methylene Blue and 1,9–Dimethyl Methylene Blue increased by 5000% the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in N. caninum tachyzoites. Phenothiazinium dyes represent an accessible group of candidates with the potential to compound future formulations for neosporosis control.
Integrative analysis of Mendelian randomization and Bayesian colocalization highlights four genes with putative BMI-mediated causal pathways to diabetes
Authors: Liu Qian , Pan Jianxin , Berzuini Carlo , Rutter Martin K. , Guo Hui
Published: May 2020

Genome-wide association studies have identified hundreds of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with BMI and diabetes. However, lack of adequate data has for long time prevented investigations on the pathogenesis of diabetes where BMI was a mediator of the genetic causal effects on this disease. Of our particular interest is the underlying causal mechanisms of diabetes. We leveraged the summary statistics reported in two studies: UK Biobank (N = 336,473) and Genetic Investigation of ANthropometric Traits (GIANT, N = 339,224) to investigate BMI-mediated genetic causal pathways to diabetes. We first estimated the causal effect of BMI on diabetes by using four Mendelian randomization methods, where a total of 76 independent BMI-associated SNPs (R2 ≤ 0.001, P < 5 × 10−8) were used as instrumental variables. It was consistently shown that higher level of BMI (kg/m2) led to increased risk of diabetes. We then applied two Bayesian colocalization methods and identified shared causal SNPs of BMI and diabetes in genes TFAP2B, TCF7L2, FTO and ZC3H4. This study utilized integrative analysis of Mendelian randomization and colocalization to uncover causal relationships between genetic variants, BMI and diabetes. It highlighted putative causal pathways to diabetes mediated by BMI for four genes.
DNA methylation and gene expression signatures are associated with ataxia-telangiectasia phenotype
Authors: McGrath-Morrow Sharon A. , Ndeh Roland , Helmin Kathryn A. , Khuder Basil , Rothblum-Oviatt Cynthia , Collaco Joseph M. , Wright Jennifer , Reyfman Paul A. , Lederman Howard M. , Singer Benjamin D.
Published: May 2020

People with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) display phenotypic variability with regard to progression of immunodeficiency, sino-pulmonary disease, and neurologic decline. To determine the association between differential gene expression, epigenetic state, and phenotypic variation among people with A-T, we performed transcriptional and genome-wide DNA methylation profiling in patients with mild and classic A-T progression as well as healthy controls. RNA and genomic DNA were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells for transcriptional and DNA methylation profiling with RNA-sequencing and modified reduced representation bisulfite sequencing, respectively. We identified 555 genes that were differentially expressed among the control, mild A-T, and classic A-T groups. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling revealed differential promoter methylation inciswith 146 of these differentially expressed genes. Functional enrichment analysis identified significant enrichment in immune, growth, and apoptotic pathways among the methylation-regulated genes. Regardless of clinical phenotype, all A-T participants exhibited downregulation of critical genes involved in B cell function (PAX5,CD79A,CD22, andFCRL1) and upregulation of several genes associated with senescence and malignancy, includingSERPINE1. These findings indicate that gene expression differences may be associated with phenotypic variability and suggest that DNA methylation regulates expression of critical immune response genes in people with A-T.
Super-resolution in situ analysis of active ribosomal DNA chromatin organization in the nucleolus
Authors: Maiser Andreas , Dillinger Stefan , Längst Gernot , Schermelleh Lothar , Leonhardt Heinrich , Németh Attila
Published: May 2020

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transcription by RNA polymerase I (Pol I) is the first key step of ribosome biogenesis. While the molecular mechanisms of rRNA transcription regulation have been elucidated in great detail, the functional organization of the multicopy rRNA gene clusters (rDNA) in the nucleolus is less well understood. Here we apply super-resolution 3D structured illumination microscopy (3D-SIM) to investigate the spatial organization of transcriptionally competent active rDNA chromatin at size scales well below the diffraction limit by optical microscopy. We identify active rDNA chromatin units exhibiting uniformly ring-shaped conformations with diameters of ~240 nm in mouse and ~170 nm in human fibroblasts, consistent with rDNA looping. The active rDNA chromatin units are clearly separated from each other and from the surrounding areas of rRNA processing. Simultaneous imaging of all active genes bound by Pol I and the architectural chromatin protein Upstream Binding Transcription Factor (UBF) reveals a random spatial orientation of regular repeats of rDNA coding sequences within the nucleoli. These observations imply rDNA looping and exclude potential formation of systematic spatial assemblies of the well-ordered repetitive arrays of transcription units. Collectively, this study uncovers key features of the 3D organization of active rDNA chromatin units and their nucleolar clusters providing a spatial framework of nucleolar chromatin organization at unprecedented detail.
Genetic basis of sleep bruxism and sleep apnea—response to a medical puzzle
Authors: Wieckiewicz Mieszko , Bogunia-Kubik Katarzyna , Mazur Grzegorz , Danel Dariusz , Smardz Joanna , Wojakowska Anna , Poreba Rafal , Dratwa Marta , Chaszczewska-Markowska Monika , Winocur Efraim , Emodi-Perlman Alona , Martynowicz Helena
Published: May 2020

Sleep bruxism (SB) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are co-occurring sleep conditions. The study aimed to evaluate the association of selected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) occurring within the genes of the serotonin and dopamine pathways in SB and OSA and investigate the relationship between them. The study group included 100 Caucasian patients. SB and OSA were diagnosed in 74 and 28 patients, respectively. In addition, 125 unrelated Caucasian healthy blood donors served as randomly selected controls to enable comparison of polymorphisms. The following SNPs were analyzed: rs2770304 and rs6313 within the serotonin receptor encoding gene (HTR2A), rs4680 polymorphism of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene, and rs686 within the dopamine receptor (DRD1) encoding gene. The prevalence of the DRD1 rs686 G variant (GG homozygosity) was found to be high in the study group compared to the control group. Bruxism episode index (BEI) was found to be significantly increased in the HTR2A rs6313 TT homozygotes compared to the heterozygous patients. Moreover, within a group of the HTR2A rs2770304 TT homozygous cases, a statistically significant correlation was observed between BEI and apnea–hypopnea index. These results indicate that DRD1 rs686 may potentially affect predisposition to SB, that HTR2A rs6313 SNP may be involved in SB pathogenesis, and that HTR2A rs2770304 polymorphism might contribute to the association between SB and OSA. This suggests a possible genetic contribution to the etiology of primary SB.
Factors governing the competition between group IA and IB cations for monensin A: a DFT/PCM study
Authors: Dudev Todor , Cheshmedzhieva Diana , Dimitrova Radoslava , Dorkov Peter , Pantcheva Ivayla
Published: May 2020

The results obtained suggest that the metal selectivity of monensin can be modulated by changing the solvents used.
Surface engineering of titanium alloy using metal-polyphenol network coating with magnesium ions for improved osseointegration
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Chang Yun-Young , Lee Jinkyu , Madhurakkat Perikamana Sajeesh Kumar , Kim Eun Mi , Jung Yang-Hun , Yun Jeong-Ho , Shin Heungsoo
Published: May 2020

Although titanium-based implants are widely used in orthopedic and dental clinics, improved osseointegration at the bone–implant interface is still required.
An easy way to identify high performing covalent organic frameworks for hydrogen storage
Authors: Tong Minman , Zhu Weichen , Li Jian , Long Zhouyang , Zhao Shuang , Chen Guojian , Lan Youshi
Published: May 2020

The complexity of secondary building units (SBUs) is proposed as an easily estimated but highly indicative predictor of hydrogen storage performance.
Lanthanide-doped bismuth-based fluoride nanoparticles: controlled synthesis and ratiometric temperature sensing
Authors: Lei Pengpeng , An Ran , Li Chengyu , Feng Jing , Zhang Hongjie
Published: May 2020

Controllable NaBiF4 nanoparticles have been synthesized through Gd3+ doping for ratiometric temperature sensing in a wide range.
Precursor chemistry of h-BN: adsorption, desorption, and decomposition of borazine on Pt(110)
Authors: Haug Leander , Roth Jannik P. , Thaler Marco , Steiner Dominik , Menzel Alexander , Tosoni Sergio , Pacchioni Gianfranco , Bertel Erminald
Published: May 2020

Adsorption, desorption and fragmentation of borazine on Pt(110) are studied by temperature-programmed desorption, ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy, workfunction measurements and density functional theory.
Bifunctional rhenium–copper nanostructures for intensified and stable ethanol synthesis via hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate
Authors: Du Zhongnan , Chen Meng , Wang Xuepeng , Chen Xingkun , Mou Xiaoling , Tan Yuan , Yang Wenshao , Huang Chuanqi , Zhu Hejun , Lin Ronghe , Ding Yunjie
Published: May 2020

Small copper nanoparticles decorated with isolated and clustered oxophilic rhenium species are designed for intensified ethanol production through hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate with unprecedented stability performance.
Mg3(Bi,Sb)2 single crystals towards high thermoelectric performance
Authors: Pan Yu , Yao Mengyu , Hong Xiaochen , Zhu Yifan , Fan Fengren , Imasato Kazuki , He Yangkun , Hess Christian , Fink Jörg , Yang Jiong , Büchner Bernd , Fu Chenguang , Snyder G. Jeffrey , Felser Claudia
Published: May 2020

Ternary Mg3(Bi,Sb)2 single crystals showing high thermoelectric performance are for the first time grown by the Mg flux method.
Chemistry of electrochemical oxidative reactions of sulfinate salts
Authors: Mei Haibo , Pajkert Romana , Wang Li , Li Ziyi , Röschenthaler Gerd-Volker , Han Jianlin
Published: May 2020

Recent advances in the oxidative reactions of sulfinate salts under electrochemical conditions, and the reaction mechanism are discussed.
Divergent syntheses of okaramines C, J, L, and S–U
Authors: Li Xiao-Wan , Si Tong-Xu , Liu Ya-Ping , Wang Ming-Zhong , Chan Albert S. C.
Published: May 2020

The first total synthesis of okaramines L and S–U, and the concise synthesis of okaramines C and J have been accomplished using a common intermediate bromohexahydropyrroloindole in 5–8 steps with an overall yield of 6.7%–23.0%.
Novel Ru nanoparticle catalysts for the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of biomass-derived furanic compounds
Authors: Nagpure Atul S. , Gogoi Pranjal , Lucas Nishita , Chilukuri Satyanarayana V.
Published: May 2020

Highly dispersed Ru nanoparticles supported on N-doped mesoporous carbon demonstrated an admirable catalytic activity in catalytic transfer hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-dimethylfuran and furfural to 2-methylfuran.
Roll-to-roll slot-die coated P–I–N perovskite solar cells using acetonitrile based single step perovskite solvent system
Authors: Burkitt Daniel , Patidar Rahul , Greenwood Peter , Hooper Katherine , McGettrick James , Dimitrov Stoichko , Colombo Matteo , Stoichkov Vasil , Richards David , Beynon David , Davies Matthew , Watson Trystan
Published: May 2020

Roll-to-roll coating of all active layers is demonstrated for a P–I–N perovskite solar cell stack, using a single step perovskite ink with an acetonitrile solvent system and flexible plastic substrate.
Developing super tough gelatin-based hydrogels by incorporating linear poly(methacrylic acid) to facilitate sacrificial hydrogen bonding
Authors: Zhang Hui Jie , Wang Lini , Wang Xuechuan , Han Qingxin , You Xiangyu
Published: May 2020

This work developed super tough gelatin-based hydrogels by incorporating linear poly(methacrylic acid) to facilitate sacrificial hydrogen bonding.
[NH3(CH2)6NH3]PbI4 as Dion–Jacobson phase bifunctional capping layer for 2D/3D perovskite solar cells with high efficiency and excellent UV stability
Authors: Lv Yanping , Ma Hongru , Yin Yanfeng , Dong Qingshun , Zhao Weidong , Jin Shengye , Shi Yantao
Published: May 2020

A Dion–Jacobson phase (DJP)-2D/3D perovskite demonstrates superior UV stability accompanied with improved optoelectronic properties.
Decreasing energy loss and optimizing band alignment for high performance CsPbI3solar cells through guanidine hydrobromide post-treatment
Authors: Yan Changjie , Li Zhizai , Sun Yi , Zhao Jing , Huang Xuchun , Yang Junliang , Ci Zhipeng , Ding Liming , Jin Zhiwen
Published: May 2020

GABr post-treatment was applied to optimize the CsPbI3PSCs, which resulted in a greatly enhanced PCE from 16.58% to 18.02%.
Interlayer design based on carbon materials for lithium–sulfur batteries: a review
Authors: Chen Lei , Yu Hui , Li Wenxiao , Dirican Mahmut , Liu Yong , Zhang Xiangwu
Published: May 2020

This review summarizes recently developed Li–S batteries with novel interlayers based on carbon materials.
Controllable hydrogen bonded self-association for the formation of multifunctional antimicrobial materials
Authors: White Lisa J. , Boles Jessica E. , Allen Nyasha , Alesbrook Luke S. , Sutton J. Mark , Hind Charlotte K. , Hilton Kira L. F. , Blackholly L. R. , Ellaby Rebecca J. , Williams George T. , Mulvihill Daniel P. , Hiscock Jennifer R.
Published: May 2020

Solution dependent self-association leads to the production of tuneable hydrogels and spherical aggregates with antimicrobial activity against MRSA and E. coli.
miR-618 rs2682818 C>A polymorphism decreases Hirschsprung disease risk in Chinese children
Authors: Zheng Yi , Lu Tongyi , Xie Xiaoli , He Qiuming , Lu Lifeng , Zhong Wei
Published: May 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous non-coding small RNAs that play an important role in the development of many malignant tumors. In addition, recent studies have reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in the miRNA functional region was inextricably linked to tumor susceptibility. In the present study, we investigated the susceptibility between miR-618 rs2682818 C>A and Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) in the Southern Chinese population (1470 patients and 1473 controls). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for estimating the strength of interrelation between them. We found that the CA/AA genotypes of miR-618 rs2682818 were associated with a decreased risk of HSCR when compared with the CC genotype (OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.72–0.99, P=0.032). Based on the stratified analysis of HSCR subtypes, the rs2682818 CA/AA genotypes were able to significantly lessen the risk of HSCR compared with CC genotype in patients with long-segment HSCR (adjusted OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.52–0.93, P=0.013). In conclusion, our results indicated that the miR-618 rs2682818 C>A polymorphism was associated with a reduced risk of HSCR in Chinese children, especially in patients with long-segment HSCR (L-HSCR) subtype.
Therapeutics—how to treat phase separation-associated diseases
Authors: Wheeler Richard John
Published: May 2020

Liquid–liquid phase separation has drawn attention as many neurodegeneration or cancer-associated proteins are able to form liquid membraneless compartments (condensates) by liquid–liquid phase separation. Furthermore, there is rapidly growing evidence that disease-associated mutation or post-translational modification of these proteins causes aberrant location, composition or physical properties of the condensates. It is ambiguous whether aberrant condensates are always causative in disease mechanisms, however they are likely promising potential targets for therapeutics. The conceptual framework of liquid–liquid phase separation provides opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches. This review summarises how the extensive recent advances in understanding control of nucleation, growth and composition of condensates by protein post-translational modification has revealed many possibilities for intervention by conventional small molecule enzyme inhibitors. This includes the first proof-of-concept examples. However, understanding membraneless organelle formation as a physical chemistry process also highlights possible physicochemical mechanisms of intervention. There is huge demand for innovation in drug development, especially for challenging diseases of old age including neurodegeneration and cancer. The conceptual framework of liquid–liquid phase separation provides a new paradigm for thinking about modulating protein function and is very different from enzyme lock-and-key or structured binding site concepts and presents new opportunities for innovation.
Full 5D characterisation of the Sagittarius stream with Gaia DR2 RR Lyrae
Authors: Ramos P. , Mateu C. , Antoja T. , Helmi A. , Castro-Ginard A. , Balbinot E. , Carrasco J. M.
Published: May 2020

Context. The Sagittarius (Sgr) stream is one of the best tools that we currently have to estimate the mass and shape of our Galaxy. However, assigning membership and obtaining the phase-space distribution of the stars that form the tails of the stream is quite challenging.

Aims. Our goal is to produce a catalogue of the RR Lyrae stars of Sgr and obtain an empiric measurement of the trends along the stream in sky position, distance, and tangential velocity.

Methods. We generated two initial samples from the Gaia DR2 RR Lyrae catalogue: one selecting only the stars within ±20° of the orbital plane of Sagittarius (Strip), and the other resulting from application of the Pole Count Map (nGC3) algorithm. We then used the model-independent, deterministic method developed in this work to remove most of the contamination by detecting and isolating the stream in distance and proper motions.

Results. The output is two empiric catalogues: the Strip sample (higher-completeness, lower-purity) which contains 11 677 stars, and the nGC3 sample (higher-purity, lower-completeness) with 6608 stars. We characterise the changes along the stream in all the available dimensions, namely the five astrometric dimensions plus the metallicity, covering more than 2π rad in the sky, and obtain new estimates for the apocentres and the mean [Fe/H] of the RR Lyrae population. Also, we show the first map of the two components of the tangential velocity thanks to the combination of distances and proper motions. Finally, we detect the bifurcation in the leading arm and report no significant difference between the two branches in terms of metallicity, kinematics, or distance.

Conclusions. We provide the largest sample of RR Lyrae candidates of Sgr, which can be used as input for a spectroscopic follow-up or as a reference for the new generation of models of the stream through the interpolators in distance and velocity that we constructed.
TESS unveils the phase curve of WASP-33b
Authors: von Essen C. , Mallonn M. , Borre C. C. , Antoci V. , Stassun K. G. , Khalafinejad S. , Tautvaišienė G.
Published: May 2020

We present the detection and characterization of the full-orbit phase curve and secondary eclipse of the ultra-hot Jupiter WASP-33b at optical wavelengths, along with the pulsation spectrum of the host star. We analyzed data collected by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) in sector 18. WASP-33b belongs to a very short list of highly irradiated exoplanets that were discovered from the ground and were later visited by TESS. The host star of WASP-33b is of δ Scuti-type and shows nonradial pulsations in the millimagnitude regime, with periods comparable to the period of the primary transit. These completely deform the photometric light curve, which hinders our interpretations. By carrying out a detailed determination of the pulsation spectrum of the host star, we find 29 pulsation frequencies with a signal-to-noise ratio higher than 4. After cleaning the light curve from the stellar pulsations, we confidently report a secondary eclipse depth of 305.8 ± 35.5 parts-per-million (ppm), along with an amplitude of the phase curve of 100.4 ± 13.1 ppm and a corresponding westward offset between the region of maximum brightness and the substellar point of 28.7 ± 7.1 degrees, making WASP-33b one of the few planets with such an offset found so far. Our derived Bond albedo, AB = 0.369 ± 0.050, and heat recirculation efficiency, ɛ = 0.189 ± 0.014, confirm again that he behavior of WASP-33b is similar to that of other hot Jupiters, despite the high irradiation received from its host star. By connecting the amplitude of the phase curve to the primary transit and depths of the secondary eclipse, we determine that the day- and nightside brightness temperatures of WASP-33b are 3014 ± 60 K and 1605 ± 45 K, respectively. From the detection of photometric variations due to gravitational interactions, we estimate a planet mass of MP = 2.81 ± 0.53 MJ. Based on analyzing the stellar pulsations in the frame of the planetary orbit, we find no signals of star-planet interactions.
Von der Super-Admin-Nanny verbannt – Kolumne
Authors: Schiewack Michael
Published: May 2020

Die Social-Media-Welt ist ein Sammelsurium von Fettnäpfchen und hinterhältig gelegten Bomben. Ob das ein wenig zu krass ausgedrückt ist? Eher angemessen, so die Einschätzung von Michael Schiewack. Bei so viel Drama hilft nur eins: Popcorn raus!
Age of First Exposure to Soccer Heading and Sensory Reweighting for Upright Stance
Authors: Caccese Jaclyn B. , Santos Fernando V. , Yamaguchi Felipe , Jeka John J.
Published: May 2020

US Soccer eliminated soccer heading for youth players ages 10 years and younger and limited soccer heading for children ages 11–13 years. Limited empirical evidence associates soccer heading during early adolescence with medium-to-long-term behavioral deficits. The purpose of this study was to compare sensory reweighting for upright stance between college-aged soccer players who began soccer heading ages 10 years and younger (AFE ≤ 10) and those who began soccer heading after age 10 (AFE > 10). Thirty soccer players self-reported age of first exposure (AFE) to soccer heading. Sensory reweighting was compared between AFE ≤ 10 and AFE > 10. To evaluate sensory reweighting, we simultaneously perturbed upright stance with visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive stimulation. The visual stimulus was presented at two different amplitudes to measure the change in gain to vision, an intra-modal effect; and change in gain to galvanic vestibular stimulus (GVS) and vibration, both inter-modal effects. There were no differences in gain to vision (p=0.857, η2=0.001), GVS (p=0.971, η2=0.000), or vibration (p=0.974, η2=0.000) between groups. There were no differences in sensory reweighting for upright stance between AFE ≤ 10 and AFE > 10, suggesting that soccer heading during early adolescence is not associated with balance deficits in college-aged soccer players, notwithstanding potential deficits in other markers of neurological function
Startklar für die Schule – Förderung von Kindern und Eltern in der Schuleingangsphase
Authors: Peppler Martina
Published: May 2020

Manchmal kommen Kinder nur schwer mit den schulischen Anforderungen zurecht. Dies ist meist nicht so gravierend, dass eine Diagnose gestellt oder Ergotherapie verordnet wird. Hier setzt das Projekt PFIFF in Essen an: Es unterstützt Kinder in belastenden Lebenssituationen oder die wenig Förderung erfahren, dabei, ihr Lernpotenzial auszuschöpfen.
Exploring the Potential of Traditional Herbs in the Management of
Diabetic Retinopathy: An Overview
Authors: Singh Soumya , Kushwaha Poonam , Gupta Sujeet Kumar
Published: May 2020

Diabetic retinopathy is a microvascular complication in diabetes that affects
eyes and is responsible for most visual impairment in diabetic patients.
Diabetic retinopathy affects up to 80% of those who have had
diabetes for 20 years or more. At least 90% of new cases could be
reduced with proper treatment and monitoring of the eyes. The longer a
person has diabetes, the higher his or her chances of developing diabetic
retinopathy. Hence, it compels need for its prevention and cure. There is an
increasing interest in natural products in pharmacotherapy as the chemical
diversity of natural products has better matches than the diversity of
synthetic compounds. The current review summarises the potential of leading
traditional herbs like Azadirachta indica, Ginkgo biloba,
Anisodus tanguticus, Pinus pinaster, Salvia
miltiorrhiza, Stephania tetrandra and Gymnema sylvestre in
the management and potential reversal of DR-related pathogenesis. It also
discusses the probable mechanism of actions, which are based on
epidemiological, in-vitro and in-vivo studies carried out
within past few years. Graphical
Abstract.
STATUS OF LIPID PEROXIDATION AND TOTAL ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY IN REGULAR VOLUNTARY BLOOD DONORS
Authors: Kumari Suchetha , K. Jayaprakash Shetty , V. Sharada ,   Chandrika,   Kathyayani
Published: May 2020

Oxygen free radicals and products of oxidative cell damage are known as biomarkers that escalate in the pathophysiology of many diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate association between blood donation and total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde(MDA). The levels of MDA and total antioxidant capacity(TAC) were studied in serum of 90 male voluntary blood donors aged from 20 to 45 years attending K. S. Hegde charitable hospital, Blood bank, for determination of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status, respectively. The donors were divided into nine groups depending on number of blood donation. With increase in number of blood donation the serum MDA level were significantly reduced (p>0.01) but total antioxidant activity was significantly increased (p>0.01). High frequency of blood donors had evidence of decreased lipid peroxidation and enhanced activity of total antioxidants when compared with low frequency blood donors. which can be considered as one of the fringe benefits of regular blood donation.
COMPARISON OF THE AMOUNT OF APICAL EXTRUSION OF BACTERIA FOLLOWING THE USE OF DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTATION TECHNIQUES – AN IN VITRO STUDY
Authors: Hegde Mithra N. , Thatte Snehal
Published: May 2020

Objectives: The objective of this study is to compare the amount of extrusion of bacteria beyond the apical foramen after instrumentation with Crown down and Step-back techniques using a manual and engine driven nickel-titanium instruments

Materials and Methods: Seventy-five mandibular premolars with similar dimensions were used for the study. Access cavities prepared and root canals contaminated with a suspension of Enterococcus faecalis. The contaminated teeth were then divided into three experimental groups. Group 1(Crowndown group) divided into two: Group 1–A Hand files: root canals were instrumented using K-files and Group 1B – Rotary files: root canals were instrumented using ProTaper instruments. Group II (Step-back group) divided into two: Group II A– Hand files: root canals were instrumented using K-files and group II B–Rotary files: the root canals were instrumented using Light Speed LSX instruments. Group III (control group): no instrumentation was done.

Bacteria were extruded after preparation were collected into vials, microbiological samples were incubated in culture media for 24hrs. The CFUs were determined for each sample. The data obtained was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis one way analysis of variance and Mann-Whitney U-tests.

Result: There was a significant difference in the amount of bacteria extruded by both Crowndown and Step-back. The Step- back hand method extruded significantly more bacteria when compared with Crowndown hand technique.

Conclusion: All instrumentation techniques extruded intracanal bacteria apically. There was a significant difference in both the engine driven instrumentation techniques, while the hand instrumentation by Step-back extruded more bacteria.
RADIO ULNAR SYNOSTOSIS: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Avadhani Ramakrishna , S. Bindhu , U. Dhanesh Kumar K. , Kumar Arunachalam ,   Vikram
Published: May 2020

Congenital radio-ulnar synostosis is caused by a failure of segmentation between the radius and ulna. It occurs rarely, with approximately 350 cases reported. Congenital radioulnar synostosis is equally affected in males and females with half of patients showing bilateral involvement. While most cases of congenital radio-ulnar synostosis occur spontaneously around one in five cases is associated with a family history of the same affliction. This condition can also occur as part of an underlying syndrome or in association with other developmental abnormalities. Congenital radio ulnar synostosis is diagnosed by clinicians through medical history and careful physical examination. X-rays or CT scans are be used to confirm the deformity. The diagnosis of congenital radio-ulnar synostosis is more often made in late childhood or at adolescence, as pain is rarely a complaint and much mobility of elbow flexion and extension preserved. In relatively mild cases, when patients themselves may notice subtle limitations or differences in forearm rotation the diagnosis is typically made at an earlier age.
MULTIPLE BILATERAL ANOMALIES OF CAROTID ARTERIES - A CASE REPORT
Authors: Avadhani Ramakrishna , Chakravarthi K. Kalyan
Published: May 2020

Anatomical variations of carotid arterial system which are not infrequently encountered have a great impact on the surgical approaches of the neck. Although the described individual variations of the carotid arteries are well-known in the literature, the combination of anomalies reported in this case has not been, to the best of our knowledge, previously described. We present a rare case of high bifurcation of the common carotid artery, unusual tortuosity (''S”-shape) of the common carotid and external carotid arteries, anomalous origin of the superior thyroid artery and linguofacial trunk on both sides. The anomalies in the present case were compared with those reported before. The embryogenesis of such a combination of anomalies is not clear, but the anatomic consequences may have important clinical implications.
FIBROMA OF OVARY PRESENTING AS MEIGS' SYNDROME - A CASE REPORT
Authors: Rajesh Aparna , Kanagal Deepa , Shetty Harish , Shetty Prasanna
Published: May 2020

Meigs' syndrome is a rare but well known syndrome defined as the association of ascites, pleural effusion and a benign solid ovarian tumor usually a fibroma in which tumor removal leads to complete resolution of pleural and peritoneal effusions. We report a case of Meigs' syndrome in a post menopausal woman which mimicked ovarian malignancy creating a diagnostic dilemma where the lady had complete recovery after surgery. Considering the good prognosis of Meigs' syndrome, prompt and accurate diagnosis is necessary to differentiate the syndrome from other ovarian malignancies.
HYPERHOMOCYSTEINEMIA AND PULMONARY EMBOLISM WITHOUT DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS IN A YOUNG PATIENT PRESENTING AS PNEUMONIA - A RARE CASE REPORT
Authors: Aroor Akshatha Rao , Attar Nazir Rahim , S. Rama Prakasha , S. Dileep K. , Sharma Raghav , Prakash P. S.
Published: May 2020

We report a 40 year old male who presented with fever, dyspnoea, right sided pleuritic chest pain and hemoptysis. His physical examination and chest X-ray revealed features of right sided consolidation with pleural effusion. Worsening of his condition despite adequate antibiotic therapy prompted us to consider an alternative cause. Repeat ECG after 3 days showed S1q3T3 pattern. CT angiogram evidenced thrombus in right pulmonary artery and doppler study of both the lowerlimbs showed normal superficial and deep venous system. Hypercoagulation workup revealed high levels of homocysteine. This is a rare case report of hyperhomocysteinemia presenting as pulmonary embolism without documented deep vein thrombosis, and the patient presented with classical clinical and radiological findings of pneumonia.
ENTEROCOCCUS FAECALIS CAN SURVIVE EXTREME CHALLENGES - OVERVIEW
Authors: Halkai Rahul , Hegde Mithra N. , Halkai Kiran
Published: May 2020

Enterococcus faecalis is a micro-organism that can survive extreme challenges. Its pathogenicity ranges from life-threatening diseases in compromised individuals to less severe conditions, systemic diseases such as endocarditis, brain abscesses, and septicaemia to infection of obturated root canals with chronic apical periodontitis. This article highlights some of the virulence factors of E. faecalis that may be related to endodontic infections and the periradicular inflammatory response. The most-cited virulence factors are aggregation substance, surface adhesins, sex pheromones, lipoteichoic acid, extracellular superoxide production, the lytic enzymes gelatinase and hyaluronidase, and the toxin cytolysin. Each of them may be associated with various stages of an endodontic infection as well as with periapical inflammation. While some products of the bacterium may be directly linked to damage of the periradicular tissues, a large part of the tissue damage is probably mediated by the host response to the bacterium and its products.
SOCIO-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES ON HEALTH AND ILLNESS
Authors: Nayak Malathi G. , Geroge Anice ,   Sharada
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Every society has its own traditional beliefs and practices related to health care. Some practices are effective whereas others may be harmful or ineffective. These beliefs and practices are linked to culture, environment and education. Health workers must have concern for the community's cultural values and beliefs so that they can utilize the harmless practices for effective use as well as eliminate harmful practices. Objectives of the study were to explore the adults perception on health and illness, Identify the health care seeking behavior and to find the relationship between perceptions on health and illness with the study variables.

Method: Explorative cross sectional survey study was conducted among rural adults in the selected villages of Udupi district. The study subjects (75) were interviewed through a questionnaire and selected by purposive sampling

Results: Data shows that majority (52.9%) of them were in the age group of 20-40 years and most (76.6%) of them were females. 52% were illiterate and 73% were lived in nuclear family. 64% of the samples take the decision to seek medical help by themselves. Majority of the samples (85%) perceived that yoga and exercises reduces the health risks. Most of the samples (70%) perceived smoking, alcohol, using unsafe water & food, multiple sex partner, stress, obesity, are the risk factors to cause the diseases.

Conclusion: Present study samples perceived diseases like epilepsy, tuberculosis, leprosy is due to sin of god and past sins. Further studies may require giving awareness program on particular area to remove such false beliefs.