bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A dissymmetric [Gd2] coordination molecular dimer hosting six addressable spin qubits
Authors: Luis Fernando , Alonso Pablo J. , Roubeau Olivier , Velasco Verónica , Zueco David , Aguilà David , Martínez Jesús I. , Barrios Leoní A. , Aromí Guillem
Published: November 2020

Artificial magnetic molecules can host several spin qubits, which could then implement small-scale algorithms. In order to become of practical use, such molecular spin processors need to increase the available computational space and warrant universal operations. Here, we design, synthesize and fully characterize dissymetric molecular dimers hosting either one or two Gadolinium(III) ions. The strong sensitivity of Gadolinium magnetic anisotropy to its local coordination gives rise to different zero-field splittings at each metal site. As a result, the [LaGd] and [GdLu] complexes provide realizations of distinct spin qudits with eight unequally spaced levels. In the [Gd2] dimer, these properties are combined with a Gd-Gd magnetic interaction, sufficiently strong to lift all level degeneracies, yet sufficiently weak to keep all levels within an experimentally accessible energy window. The spin Hamiltonian of this dimer allows a complete set of operations to act as a 64-dimensional all-electron spin qudit, or, equivalently, as six addressable qubits. Electron paramagnetic resonance experiments show that resonant transitions between different spin states can be coherently controlled, with coherence times TM of the order of 1 µs limited by hyperfine interactions. Coordination complexes with embedded quantum functionalities are promising building blocks for quantum computation and simulation hybrid platforms.
Fundamentals
Authors: Qin N.
Published: November 2020

Droplet microfluidics is not simply a coalescence of “droplets” and “microfluidics”; beyond its role as an enabling technology, it also carries beautiful physics, and these factors have huge significance and implications for its future evolution. Droplet microfluidics has constantly found increasing influences across various disciplines. A good understanding of the fundaments of droplets in microfluidics apparently becomes an essential need. This chapter offers a brief tutorial on some fundamental aspects of droplets in microfluidics. Here, several basic concepts of capillarity are first introduced. And then, commonly used dimensionless numbers in microfluidics are presented and paraphrased. Next, conventional methods of droplet generation and size scaling of generated droplets are reviewed. Lastly, some key hydrodynamic issues of droplets flowing in microchannels are discussed.
Droplet Microfluidics: Applications in Synthetic Biology
Authors: Little Samuel R. , Perry James M. , Samlali Kenza , Shih Steve C. C.
Published: November 2020

Synthetic biology is rapidly growing to meet the demand for inexpensive and sustainable resources. So far, the field has developed microbial strains producing biofuels, materials, drugs, as well as new tools for clinical diagnostics and gene therapy. Although rich in potential, synthetic biology still requires development – particularly in the area of automation. The price and footprint of commercially available automation equipment is restrictive to research and these tools are often not tailored to complete the entire workflow of a given project. In response to this, droplet microfluidic platforms are being developed to expedite synthetic biology. In particular, droplet microfluidic devices have been developed to assemble and transform DNA, perform high-throughput screening assays and perform directed evolution. By consolidating these capabilities and pairing them with design automation and analysis tools, droplet microfluidics will launch a new generation of synthetic biology.
A versatile magnetic bead-based flow cytometric assay for the detection of thyroid cancer related hsa-miR-221-3p in blood and tissues
Authors: Gao Jiaxue , Wei Jia , Wang Yaoqi , Li Zhenshengnan , Ma Lina , Meng Xianying , Wang Zhenxin
Published: November 2020

An MB-FCM assay for the sensitive detection of hsa-miR-221-3p in native biological samples in one step at room temperature.
Layer-by-layer assembly into bulk-like g-C3N4via artificial manipulation of electrostatic forces
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Guangshe , Zhang Yuelan , Li Liping , Shang Mingyu
Published: November 2020

For the first time, protonated and oxygen doped g-C3N4 nanosheets were assembled via an electrostatic force into a bulk-like photocatalyst with superior hydrogen production ability.
Hydrocarbon staple constructing highly efficient α-helix cell-penetrating peptides for intracellular cargo delivery
Authors: Li Shu , Zhang Xingjiao , Guo Chen , Peng Yali , Liu Xiaojing , Wang Bo , Zhuang Ran , Chang Min , Wang Rui
Published: November 2020

Hydrocarbon staple constructing α-helix cell-penetrating peptides are potent tools for bioactive cargo delivery to the cytosol of cells.
Facile strategy for obtaining luminescent polymorphs based on the chirality of a boron-fused azomethine complex
Authors: Ohtani Shunsuke , Takeda Yusuke , Gon Masayuki , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: November 2020

A chloro-substituted boron-fused azomethine complex (BAmCl) having a stereogenic boron center was synthesized for obtaining a luminescent chiral crystal.
Effect of temperature and exfoliation time on the properties of chemically exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Janica Iwona , Iglesias Daniel , Ippolito Stefano , Ciesielski Artur , Samorì Paolo
Published: November 2020

Here we show how temperature and reaction time are key towards efficient chemical exfoliation of MoS2 into monolayer thick flakes with controlled content of metallic vs. semiconductive sheets.
Photoredox radical borylation of electron-deficient alkenes with NHC-boranes
Authors: Zhu Congjun , Gao Shan , Li Weipeng , Zhu Chengjian
Published: November 2020

An efficient photoredox radical borylation of electron-deficient Morita–Baylis–Hillman type alkenes is achieved to afford multi-functionalized allylic boranes.
Mildly acidic pH and room temperature triggered peroxidase-mimics of rGO–Cu3(OH)2(MoO4)2 cuboidal nanostructures: an effective colorimetric detection of neurotransmitter dopamine in blood serum and urine samples
Authors: Gajendar Singh , Amisha Kushwaha , Manu Sharma
Published: November 2020

Graphical representation of dopamine detection.
The interaction strength of an intrinsically disordered protein domain with its binding partner is little affected by very different cosolutes
Authors: Schnatwinkel Jan , Herrmann Christian
Published: November 2020

Cosolutes have strong but compensating enthalpy and entropy effects on the formation of the c-Myb/KIX complex changing its stability only slightly.
Towards H2O catalyzed N2-fixation over TiO2 doped Run clusters (n = 5, 6): a mechanistic and kinetic approach
Authors: Ghoshal Sourav , Pramanik Anup , Sarkar Pranab
Published: November 2020

TiO2 doped Run clusters can effectively liberate NH3 from N2via an H2O oxidation reaction.
Kinetic analysis of Ag particle redispersion into ZSM-5 in the presence of coke using in situ XAFS
Authors: Murata Kazumasa , Ohyama Junya , Satsuma Atsushi
Published: November 2020

In the present study, the redispersion behavior of Ag particles on ZSM-5 in the presence of coke was observed using in situ X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy.
Photoactivatable diazido Pt(iv) anticancer complex can bind to and oxidize all four nucleosides
Authors: Cheng Yiyu , Zhang Jishuai , Wu Kui , Gao Fang , Cheng Yang , Zou Tao , Wu Xiaoqin , Zhao Yao , Wang Fuyi
Published: November 2020

Photoactivatable diazido Pt(iv) anticancer complex can bind to all four nucleosides and induce their base oxidants upon light irradiation.
Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)@ZIF-67 composites—a new type of heterogeneous catalyst for the Knoevenagel condensation reaction
Authors: Hou Buwei , Wu Jie
Published: November 2020

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are encapsulated in 50 nm thick shells of ZIF-67, producing novel nano-sized composites HNTs@ZIF-67.
Oroxylin A attenuates osteoarthritis progression by dual inhibition of cell inflammation and hypertrophy
Authors: Chen De-Heng , Zheng Gang , Zhong Xin-Yang , Lin Zi-Hao , Yang Shi-Wei , Liu Hai-Xiao , Shang Ping
Published: November 2020

Oroxylin A is a promising agent to prevent osteoarthritis development by targeting cell inflammation and hypertrophy.
Re-usable thermally reversible crosslinked adhesives from robust polyester and poly(ester urethane) Diels–Alder networks
Authors: Sridhar Laxmisha M. , Oster Murielle O. , Herr Donald E. , Gregg Jonathan B. D. , Wilson James A. , Slark Andrew T.
Published: November 2020

Monomer-free and solvent-free thermally reversible crosslinked adhesives from Diels–Alder networks with high performance and capable of multiple re-use.
A new sol–gel route towards Nd3+-doped SiO2–LaF3 glass-ceramics for photonic applications
Authors: Cruz María Eugenia , Durán Alicia , Balda Rolindes , Fernández Joaquín , Mather Glenn C. , Castro Yolanda
Published: November 2020

Optical luminescence emission of 0.9Nd3+–80SiO2–LaF3 glass ceramic.
Bioinspired design for the assembly of Glypromate® neuropeptide conjugates with active pharmaceutical ingredients
Authors: Silva-Reis Sara C. , V. D. dos Santos A. Catarina , García-Mera Xerardo , Rodríguez-Borges José E. , Sampaio-Dias Ivo E.
Published: November 2020

A robust and bioinspired methodology for the efficient conjugation of Glypromate® with active pharmaceutical ingredients for neurodegenerative diseases.
High performance cobalt nanoparticle catalysts supported by carbon for ozone decomposition: the effects of the cobalt particle size and hydrophobic carbon support
Authors: Li Dandan , Cen Bingheng , Fang Chentao , Leng Xingyue , Wang Weiyue , Wang Yuejuan , Chen Jian , Luo Mengfei
Published: November 2020

Catalytic gaseous ozone decomposition under high humidity is not only an urgent need but also a significant challenge because of the low stability over the available catalysts.
In situ imaging electrocatalytic CO2 reduction and evolution reactions in all-solid-state Li–CO2 nanobatteries
Authors: Yang Tingting , Li Hui , Chen Jingzhao , Ye Hongjun , Yao Jingming , Su Yuwei , Guo Baiyu , Peng Zhangquan , Shen Tongde , Tang Yongfu , Zhang Liqiang , Huang Jianyu
Published: November 2020

We herein present a real time study of a Li–CO2 battery with a Ni–Ru/MnO2 cathode by using the in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy (ETEM) technique.
Biodegradable nanoparticle-assisted and multiplexed imaging of asymmetric RNA expressions in live cells for precise cancer diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Li Xia , Yang Fang , Gan Chunfang , Yuan Ruo , Xiang Yun
Published: November 2020

Simultaneous and amplified imaging of asymmetrically expressed RNAs in live cancer cells by the biodegradable ZnO/DNAzyme nanoparticle probe.
Poly(ε-lysine) and its derivatives via ring-opening polymerization of biorenewable cyclic lysine
Authors: Li Maosheng , Tao Youhua
Published: November 2020

Minireview focused on poly(ε-lysine) and its derivatives via ring-opening polymerization of biorenewable cyclic lysine.
Adsorption and sensing of CO and NH3 on chemically modified graphene surfaces
Authors: Sahithi A. , Sumithra K.
Published: November 2020

We have studied the electronic structure and adsorption characteristics of environmentally potent gaseous molecules like carbon monoxide (CO) and ammonia (NH3) on chemically modified surfaces of graphene, employing ab initio density functional methods.
Synthesis of 2D MoS2(1−x)Se2x semiconductor alloy by chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Yao Wenwen , Kang Zhilin , Deng Jiajun , Chen Yan , Song Qian , Ding Xun Lei , Lu Fangchao , Wang Wenjie
Published: November 2020

Alloying/doping in two-dimensional (2D) materials is emerging as an increasingly important strategy due to the wide-range bandgap tunability and versatility of these materials.
Tracking nucleic acid nanocapsule assembly, cellular uptake and disassembly using a novel fluorescently labeled surfactant
Authors: Arifuzzaman Md , Hartmann Alyssa K. , Rouge Jessica L.
Published: November 2020

By introducing a solvatochromatic chromophore to a DNA–surfactant conjugate, the dynamics of its assembly and disassembly can be monitored using fluorescence spectroscopy.
Correction: A 3-D NanoMagnetoElectrokinetic model for ultra-high precision assembly of ferromagnetic NWs using magnetic-field assisted dielectrophoresis
Authors: Singh Sachin K. , Rajib Md Mahadi , Drobitch Justine L. , Atulasimha Jayasimha , Bandyopadhyay Supriyo , Subramanian Arunkumar
Published: November 2020

Correction for ‘A 3-D NanoMagnetoElectrokinetic model for ultra-high precision assembly of ferromagnetic NWs using magnetic-field assisted dielectrophoresis’ by Sachin K. Singh et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 39763–39770, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA08381J.
Carbon monoxide and hydrogen (syngas) as a C1-building block for selective catalytic methylation
Authors: Kaithal Akash , Hölscher Markus , Leitner Walter
Published: November 2020

A broadly applicable catalytic process for the selective β-methylation of alcohols is presented using syngas (CO/H2) directly as a C1 building block and the shown manganese complex in the presence of a base as the catalytic system.
Cu-catalyzed hydroxycyclopropanol ring-opening cyclization to tetrahydrofurans and tetrahydropyrans: short total syntheses of hyperiones
Authors: Liang Weida , Cai Xinpei , Dai Mingji
Published: November 2020

A novel Cu-catalyzed hydroxycyclopropanol ring-opening cyclization was developed to synthesize substituted tetrahydrofuran/tetrahydropyran molecules including two norlignan natural products hyperiones A and B.
Compositional optimization of a 2D–3D heterojunction interface for 22.6% efficient and stable planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: He Maosheng , Liang Jianghu , Zhang Zhanfei , Qiu Yuankun , Deng Zihao , Xu Heng , Wang Jianli , Yang Yajuan , Chen Zhenhua , Chen Chun-Chao
Published: November 2020

Compositional optimization of a 2D–3D heterojunction interface can achieve 22.6% efficient perovskite solar cells with improved stability.
An ‘ice-melting’ kinetic control strategy for highly photocatalytic organic nanocrystals
Authors: Chen Yingzhi , Jiang Dongjian , Zhang Yujuan , Yao Shenglian , Rosei Federico , Zhang Xiaohong , Huang Zheng-Hong , Wang Lu-Ning , Kang Feiyu
Published: November 2020

A facile and general ‘ice melting’ kinetic control strategy is proposed to synthesize highly photocatalytic organic nanocrystals.
Unified decentralised control for both grid‐connected and islanded operation of cascaded‐type microgrid
Authors: Li Lang , Sun Yao , Hou Xiaochao , Su Mei , Zhang Xin , Wang Peng , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: November 2020

In order to ensure the uninterrupted power supply, it is necessary for the microgrid to operate in both grid‐connected mode and islanded mode. To address this concern, this study proposes a unified decentralised control strategy for both grid‐connected and islanded operation of the cascaded‐type microgrid (CMG). It can realise the smooth mode switching without the need of changing controllers. In terms of the proposed scheme, the system always holds a unique equilibrium point regardless of the grid‐connected or islanded operation. Since the CMG is performed in a decentralised manner without any communication, it is a reliable and cost‐effective solution. Moreover, the self‐synchronisation of each DG is obtained under both the resistance–inductance (RL) and resistance–capacitance (RC) loads. The small‐signal stability is proved and the design of control parameters is given. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method is verified by simulation and OPAL‐RT‐based real‐time simulation results.
Direct detection of the kinetic Sunyaev-Zel’dovich effect in galaxy clusters
Authors: Tanimura Hideki , Zaroubi Saleem , Aghanim Nabila
Published: November 2020

We report the direct detection of the kinetic Sunyaev-Zel’dovich (kSZ) effect in galaxy clusters with a 3.5σsignificance level. The measurement was performed by stacking thePlanckmap at 217 GHz at the positions of galaxy clusters from the Wen-Han-Liu (WHL) catalog. To avoid the cancelation of positive and negative kSZ signals, we used the large-scale distribution of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) galaxies to estimate the peculiar velocities of the galaxy clusters along the line of sight and incorporated the sign in the velocity-weighted stacking of the kSZ signals. Using this technique, we were able to measure the kSZ signal around galaxy clusters beyond 3 × R500. Assuming a standardβ-model, we also found that the gas fraction withinR500isfgas, 500 = 0.12 ± 0.04 for the clusters with the mass ofM500 ∼ 1.0 × 1014h−1 M⊙. We compared this result to predictions from the Magneticum cosmological hydrodynamic simulations as well as other kSZ and X-ray measurements, most of which show a lower gas fraction than the universal baryon fraction for the same mass of clusters. Our value is statistically consistent with results from the measurements and simulations and also with the universal value within our measurement uncertainty.
Impact of conduction band non-parabolicity and dielectric mismatch on photoionization cross section of donor bound polaron in spherical GaN/InN core-shell nanoparticle
Authors: Talbi Abdelali , El Haouari Mohamed , Nouneh Khalid , Feddi El Mustapha , Addou Mohammed
Published: November 2020

Understanding the behavior of single dopant in semiconductors is a challenge to attain a high control on optoelectronic devices. Based on the fact that the external perturbations have an important impact on properties of doped nanocrystals, we have studied the simultaneous effects of phonons and conduction band non-parabolicity combined to dielectric mismatch and donor position on the photoionization cross section of an off-center donor in spherical GaN/InN core-shell quantum dots. The calculations were carried out within the framework of the effective-mass approximation and the eigenvalues equation has been solved using the Ritz variational method. The examination of the photoionization cross section, corresponding to the first donor energy level and the non-parabolic conduction band optical transition, shows clearly that the existence of non-parabolicity band or dielectric environment causes a blue shift of resonance peaks while the existence of phonon red shift them with a non-neglected variations in their intensity. The donor position has also an important effect on peaks position and amplitude.
Cell differentiation unravelled by single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Alemany Anna
Published: November 2020

All of us originate from a single cell, known as the zygote. Nevertheless, we are made of thousands of cells with different functionalities and morphologies: a skin cell is not the same as a neuron, yet they share the same genetic information. It is during embryo development that, through multiple cell divisions, the zygote gives rise to each of the cell types present in the different organs of each organism. One main challenge of developmental biology is to understand how, when, and where lineage commitment to each cell type takes place.
Insect bite of the lip with secondary impetiginization: a case report
Authors: Debré Timothé , El Mansouf Loubna , Meyaz Laila , Moussaceb Saida , Alantar Alp
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Impetiginization is defined as a surinfection of Staphylococcus aureus on a preexistent dermatosis: Observation: A 19-year-old patient in good general health was admitted to general emergency and then hospitalized in internal medicine for an abscess of the labial commissure. The anamnesis revealed a 24 hours old insect bite. An abscess of the labial commissure of 20 mm in diameter with a necrotic surroundings and associated induration was observed. After 3 days of antibiotic i.v (amoxicillin + clavulanic acid), the patient went home. By 14 days, healing was complete. Bacteriological examination detected numerous staphylococcus aureus (SA) that were sensitive to meticillin. Discussion: SA by their pathogenicity are responsible for many infections, potentially serious. For several decades, mainly in hospitals, SA have acquired resistance to penicillins A and G. Infections considered as banal could evolve into very serious necrotic infections. Conclusion: This case is unusual because of its localization and its quick evolution on a young adult. It underlines the importance of early bacteriological sampling before the introduction of probabilistic antibiotherapy in order to anticipate extremely serious necrotic infections that may lead to aesthetic and functional sequelae.
A model for pandemic control through isolation policy
Authors: Moyo Sibusiso , Cruz Luis Gustavo Zelaya , Carvalho Rafael Lima de , Faye Roger Marcelin , Tabakov Pavel Yaroslav , Mora-Camino Felix
Published: November 2020

In this paper we model the dynamics of a spreading pandemic over a country using a new dynamical and decentralised differential model with the main objective of studying the effect of different policies of social isolation (social distancing) over the population to control the spread of the pandemic. A probabilistic infection process with time lags is introduced in the dynamics with the main contribution being the proposed model to explicitly look at levels of interaction between towns and regions within the considered country. We believe the strategies and findings here will help practitioners, planners and Governments to put in place better strategies to control the spread of pandemics, thus saving lives and minimizing the impact of pandemia on socio-economic development and the populations livelihood.
Communication challenges with older adults patients during clinical learning: A qualitative study among students nurse in Indonesia
Authors: Setiyani R , Sumarwati M , Iskandar A , Rismawati I
Published: November 2020

One of consequences of population aging is the increase of health care utilization by elderly population. Student nurse who will work as a professional nurse in the future are expected to be able to communicate effectively with elderly patients, in order to delivering high quality care. This research aimed at exploring communication challenges with older adult patients experienced by students nurse during clinical practice in Indonesia. In-depth interview conducted among 6 final year students nurse, who selected using purposive sampling method. Data were analyzed using Charmaz’s constructivist grounded theory. There are four categories of participant’s experience communicating with elderly patients were emerged from the data analysis: 1) “less functioning”; 2) „kromo’ language as a symbol of respect; 3) “bridging the gap” and 4) “intimate connection”. The present findings revealed that communication challenges could be either from patient or nurse’s students. Improving communication skills by learning the basics of elderly first language (Jawa “Kromo”) are necessary to students nurse for an effective communication with elderly. Developing constructive view to elderly is also pivotal for successful intergenerational communication.
What is Behind Green Industry Motive to Maintain Rural Areas?
Authors: Akbar Anggara Ali , Agus Pramuka Bambang
Published: November 2020

The environmental damage is one of the essential factors that determine of disasters. Industrial activities that are mostly in urban areas are contributors to this problem. These activities often exploit resources from rural to an urban area. So that industry is required to be actively involved in maintaining the rural area alike implementing a green industry thatcan be represent through the application of green accounting which is disclose environmental information. The purpose of this paper is to explain the involved an industry in rural areas. Especially, to explain benefit and industry motive. This study uses legitimacy theory and stakeholder theory as a theoretical framework to explain the role of industry. The research method used a quantitative approach and seconder data from Indonesia stock exchange with the LQ45 index as a sample. The data analyzed using multiple regression and path analysis to examine environmental factors that influence the economic performance. The result of this study shows that environmental performance and environmental cost has an influence on environmental disclosure then influence economic performance. Furthermore, it can be identified that the company get the benefit from environmental performance and environmental cost. Also, Economic performance is a reason why an industry involved in maintaining the rural area.
An Integrative Model of Place Image, Product Image and Consumer Receptivity
Authors: Roostika Ratna , Muafi  , Permata Agnès Retno
Published: November 2020

Place image as an intangible cue has the power to influence the behavior of the buyer. Place in marketing discipline has been analyzed from country level to regional/territorial level. Focusing on a territorial context, the purpose of this study is to examine the place image effects on both the perception of local product and place as destination to visit. A local hand made batik industry from Yogyakarta is chosen to test the model. By analyzing 110 valid sample using SEM-PLS method, some findings from this study are: 1) Place image influences local product beliefs. 2) Product beliefs influence product choice intention. 3) Place image influences place beliefs. 4) Place beliefs influence place visit intention. This study contributes to the place image and product image integration model where majority of previous study were empirically examined as a separate model. By combining place image and its local product image, the local government may design distinct local product marketing strategy align with its local place image.
DiTenun, Smart Application Producing Ulos Motif
Authors: Barus Arlinta C. , Simanjuntak Marianna , Situmorang Verawati
Published: November 2020

Indonesia is a country which is rich of various traditional cultures and values. One of its representation is traditional woven clothes (well known in Indonesian as kain tenun) which is wide spread throughout Indonesian regions. To support the traditional woven industry, as a relevancy to the industry 4.0 era, we develop DiTenun which is a multiplatform application that is able to produce new motifs of traditional woven intelligently using machine learning approach. The presence of the apps aims to support the growth of traditional weaving industry particularly the small and medium scale ones. The dissemination of the apps is very challenging as traditional woven centers are mostly located in rural area where the digital world has been rarely accessed. In this paper, we present “Ulos” as a case study in the utilization of DiTenun. The implementation of the sustainability of the Ulos industry by DiTenun needs to be adjusted to the development of the industrial era 4.0. Ulos is a traditional woven cloth from Batak tribe, which is located in several rural regions surrounding Toba highland in North Sumatera Utara province. The workflow for producing an item that is marketable is to produce woven fabrics with motifs that have been produced by smart devices. The results of DiTenun can have an impact on the technology produced and on the social life and culture of the weavers. The study shows how DiTenun is designed to support Ulos weavers in creating new motifs of Ulos and to support the economy of relevant small and medium scale industry of Ulos.
Cerebral Imaging in Patients with COVID-19 and Neurological Symptoms: First Experience from two University Hospitals in Northern Germany
Authors: Jensen-Kondering Ulf , Neumann Alexander , Margraf Nils G. , Gövert Felix , Brüggemann Norbert , Schunk Domagoj , Bahmer Thomas , Schramm Peter , Schreiber Stefan , Jansen Olav
Published: November 2020

Purpose To describe findings on cerebral imaging in patients with COVID-19 and neurological symptoms at two German university hospitals.

Materials and Methods Patients with COVID-19 and neurological symptoms and cerebral imaging (CT or MRI) were included. A chart review regarding neurological symptoms, COVID-19 and imaging findings was conducted.

Results 12 patients (4 females, age 68 ± 12 years) could be included. Three patients had acute findings. Two patients had acute and subacute cerebral ischemia, one patient had additional intracranial hemorrhages and presumed central pontine myelinolysis. One patient had presumed COVID-19-associated pansinusitis.

Conclusion Findings on cerebral imaging in patients with COVID-19 are uncommon and nonspecific. However, cerebral ischemia is regularly encountered and patients should be evaluated for stroke symptoms.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
A Novel Way of Standardization of ICG Lymphangiography Reporting
Authors: Chandrappa Ashok Basur , Batth Ritu , Vasudevan Srikanth , N. Anantheswar Yellambalase , Sreekumar Dinkar
Published: November 2020

Background Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphangiography is being increasingly employed to assess the severity of lymphedema, locate the areas of patent linear lymphatics and dermal backflow and plan treatment. This study suggests a novel method of reporting ICG findings in extremities to enable easy understanding among surgeons and physiotherapists and avoid repeat testing when a patient visits a disparate lymphedema center or clinician.

Methods A reporting protocol was developed in the lymphedema clinic of the plastic surgery department, and patients were asked to bring along the report in every subsequent review. The ICG findings were recorded on the fluorescence imaging system as well. The report was prepared by one and analyzed by two different clinicians without repeating the test on 10 consecutive patients.

Results The interrater reliability of findings in the report was found to be 98.7% among the three clinicians.

Conclusion The reporting system was found to be illustratable and reproducible
Noninvasive Cardiac Output Monitoring Using Electrical Cardiometry and Outcomes in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Sumbel Lydia , Annamalai Muthiah R. , Wats Aanchal , Salameh Mohammed , Agarwal Arpit , Bhalala Utpal
Published: November 2020

Cardiac output (CO) measurement is an important element of hemodynamic assessment in critically ill children and existing methods are difficult and/or inaccurate. There is insufficient literature regarding CO as measured by noninvasive electrical cardiometry (EC) as a predictor of outcomes in critically ill children. We conducted a retrospective chart review in children <21 years, admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) between July 2018 and November 2018 with acute respiratory failure and/or shock and who were monitored with EC (ICON monitor). We collected demographic information, data on CO measurements with EC and with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and data on ventilator days, PICU and hospital days, inotrope score, and mortality. We analyzed the data using Chi-square and multiple linear regression analysis. Among 327 recordings of CO as measured by EC in 61 critically ill children, the initial, nadir, and median CO (L/min; median [interquartile range (IQR)]) were 3.4 (1.15, 5.6), 2.39 (0.63, 4.4), and 2.74 (1.03, 5.2), respectively. Low CO as measured with EC did not correlate well with TTE (p = 0.9). Both nadir and mean CO predicted ventilator days (p = 0.05 and 0.01, respectively), and nadir CO was correlated with peak inotrope score (correlation coefficient of –0.3). In our cohort of critically ill children with respiratory failure and/or shock, CO measured with EC did not correlate with TTE. Both nadir and median CO measured with EC predicted outcomes in critically ill children.
Tibial Apophyseal Percutaneous Pinning in Skeletally Immature Dogs: 25 Cases (2016–2019)
Authors: von Pfeil Dirsko J.F. , Megliolia Sara , Malek Sarah , Rochat Mark , Glassman Mathieu
Published: November 2020

Objective The aim of this study was to report the clinical experience with fluoroscopically guided tibial apophyseal percutaneous pinning (TAPP) for tibial tuberosity avulsion fractures (TTAF).

Study Design This is a retrospective case series.

Materials and Methods Medical records of skeletally immature dogs (n = 25) were reviewed. The association of pin design [smooth (SP); negatively threaded (NTP)], pin insertion angles, TTAF-type, age and breed with various outcome variables was statistically evaluated. Long-term follow-up was assessed via direct examination, radiographs, questionnaires and videos.

Results Mean age, weight and surgery times were 6.2 months, 9.6 kg and 21 minutes respectively. No major complications occurred among the 19 SP and 6 NTP; no pin broke. Seromas and patellar desmitis rates were higher with SP (11/19; 16/19) versus NTP (0/6; 2/6) (p = 0.02; 0.03). The median horizontal pin cross angles for cases without and with desmitis were 40 and 26 degrees respectively (p = 0.047). Explantation was needed in 5/19 SP and 0/6 NTP cases. The mean tibial plateau angle (TPA) changed significantly between initial (25.6 degrees) and follow-up (18.8 degrees) radiographs (p = 0.0002). Long-term outcome, obtained at a mean of 19.9 months, was excellent in all cases.

Conclusion Tibial apophyseal percutaneous pinning can be considered to treat TTAF. Divergent pin placement and using NTP might reduce complications. Tibial plateau angle should be monitored until skeletal maturity has been reached. Long-term outcome post TAPP can be expected to be excellent.
In-gel fluorescence detection by DNA polymerase elongation
Authors: Moss Alden C. , Herr Amy E.
Published: November 2020

Fluorescence-based DNA readouts are increasingly important in biological research, owing to enhanced analytical sensitivity and multiplexing capability. In this study, we characterize an in-gel polymerase elongation process to understand the reaction kinetics and transport limitations, and we evaluate DNA sequence design to develop signal amplification strategies. Using fluorescently labeled nucleotides, we scrutinize polymerase elongation on single-stranded overhangs of DNA immobilized in polyacrylamide hydrogels. When polymerase elongation reactions were carried out with reactants diffused into the gels, we observed reaction completion after 2 h, indicating that the process was efficient but much slower than that predicted by models. Confocal microscopy revealed a nonuniform post-reaction fluorescence profile of the elongated DNA throughout the depth of the gel and that the time for complete fluorescence penetration was proportional to the immobilized DNA concentration. These observations suggest retarded diffusion of the polymerase, attributable to interactions between diffusing polymerase and immobilized DNA. This study will ultimately inform assay design by providing insight into the reaction completion time to ensure spatial uniformity of the fluorescence signal. In agreement with our hypothesis that incorporation of multiple labeled nucleotides per DNA strand results in an increased signal, incorporation of four labeled nucleotides resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in fluorescence intensity over one labeled nucleotide. Our results further suggest that the fluorescence signal increases with spacing between labeled nucleotides, validating the number of and spacing between labeled nucleotides as tunable parameters for signal amplification. In-gel polymerase-based fluorescence readout is promising for signal amplification when considering both transport limitations and DNA sequence design.
Effect of SiO2 capping layer on the ferroelectricity of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 films
Authors: Zhai Minglong , Sun Bing , Huang Kailiang , Chang Hudong , Liu Honggang
Published: November 2020

In this paper, SiO2 capping layers were introduced to improve the ferroelectric properties of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) thin films. HZO thin films with the SiO2 capping layers exhibit excellent ferroelectric characteristics. The largest remnant polarization (2Pr) was about 35.6 µC/cm2 for the HZO film with the SiO2 capping layer. The remnant polarization was larger than that for the film with the W capping layer after annealing at 550 °C and 600 °C and there was more oxygen content in the film with the SiO2 capping layer.
Experimental study of miscible viscous fingering with different effective interfacial tension
Authors: Suzuki Ryuta X. , Quah Fu Wei , Ban Takahiko , Mishra Manoranjan , Nagatsu Yuichiro
Published: November 2020

Viscous fingering (VF) occurs when a more viscous fluid is displaced by a less viscous one in porous media or in Hele-Shaw cells. Generally, VF can be divided into two types: immiscible VF and miscible VF. The typical immiscible finger is wider than the equivalent miscible finger because of interfacial tension. Recently, it has been pointed out that an effective interfacial tension (EIT) is present even in miscible systems when there is a steep concentration gradient of chemical species at the interface. The effects of EIT on miscible VF have so far mainly been studied numerically showing that the fingers become wider owing to EIT. Here, we perform an experimental investigation of the effects of EIT on miscible VF by establishing two solution systems that have different concentration differences but the same viscosity contrast. One is a glycerol solution with a concentration of 99 wt. % and water and has a higher water concentration difference of ∆Cw = 99 wt. %. The other is a polymer solution with a concentration of 8.5 wt. % and water and has a lower water concentration difference of ∆Cw = 8.5 wt. %. We show by direct measurement with a spinning drop tensiometer that the glycerol–water system exhibits greater EIT, and we demonstrate experimentally that typical fingers with high EIT become wider than those with low EIT. We suggest that under the experimental condition employed, the VF in the glycerol–water system with high EIT exhibits a characteristic property of immiscible VF, although it has generally been regarded as a typical representative of classical miscible VF.
Reduction of non-radiative recombination by inserting a GaAs strain-relaxation interlayer in InGaAs/GaAsP superlattice solar cells investigated by photo-thermal spectroscopy
Authors: Watanabe Airi , Ikari Tetsuo , Furukawa Ryo , Sugiyama Masakazu , Fukuyama Atsuhiko
Published: November 2020

The role of a GaAs strain-relaxation interlayer inserted into InGaAs/GaAsP superlattice solar cells was evaluated by measuring the piezoelectric photothermal (PPT) signals in the temperature range from 100 K to a device operation temperature of around 340 K. The PPT signals caused by the non-radiative recombination of electrons photo-excited to the first quantized level were observed. The temperature-dependent PPT signal intensities were assessed using an electron carrier relaxation model comprising four processes: radiative recombination, non-radiative recombination, thermionic emission, and tunneling of carriers through the e2-miniband after thermal excitation from the e1-level. The contribution of holes in the hh1 state was also included in this model, in which e1 and e2 are the first and second electron levels in the conduction band, respectively, and hh1 is the first heavy hole level in the valence band of the quantum wells. A similar analysis was conducted using photoluminescence (PL) spectra to elucidate the carrier transition dynamics in greater detail, because PPT and PL measurements are complementary to each other in terms of non-radiative and radiative electron transitions. Consequently, although the non-radiative recombination remained dominant around room temperature, the quantum yield of the carrier tunneling process increased and became comparable to that of non-radiative recombination. This implies that the recombination loss of the photo-excited carriers is suppressed by the insertion of the GaAs interlayer. By clarifying the role of the inserted interlayer with respect to the non-radiative recombination process, the usefulness of the PPT method is demonstrated.
Provision of home medicines reviews in Australia: linking population need with service provision and available pharmacist workforce
Authors: Spinks Jean , Birch Stephen , Wheeler Amanda J. , Nissen Lisa , Freeman Christopher , Thai Thao , Byrnes Joshua
Published: November 2020

ObjectiveIdentifying and quantifying the health needs of a population are the basis of evidence-based health policy and workforce planning. The motivation for undertaking the present study was to evaluate whether the current level of medication review services corresponds to population need, as proxied by the rate of polypharmacy, and to undertake a preliminary analysis of the sufficiency of the current workforce. This paper: (1) estimates the age- and sex-standardised rates of polypharmacy as a proxy for population need for home medicines review; (2) compares the rate of polypharmacy with current service provision of home medicines reviews; and (3) links the estimated need for services with the current number and location of pharmacist providers.
MethodsAge- and sex-adjusted polypharmacy rates, by state, were estimated from the National Health Survey of Australia (2017–18), service levels were estimated from national-level administrative claims data (2017–18) and the current workforce was estimated from the Australian Association of Consultant Pharmacists (2018). The current level of service provision was compared to the estimated population need for services, alongside the size of the pharmacy workforce required if need was met.
ResultsThe adjusted rate of polypharmacy in Australia, using the strictest definition of ≥10 medications and ≥3 current chronic illnesses, was 1389 per 100000 population. The illustrative needs-based analysis suggests that there may be a disconnect between the current level of service provision and population health needs.
ConclusionGiven that polypharmacy is a risk factor for medication-related problems, and that medication review is one of the few targeted strategies currently available to address medication-related problems in the population, service provision may be inadequate. Policy options to improve service provision could include interventions to increase workforce productivity and relaxing the current eligibility criteria for review, especially in rural and remote areas.
What is known about the topic?Polypharmacy is a risk factor for medication-related problems, which can cause increased morbidity and mortality in the population.
What does this paper add?This paper provides representative, population-based rates of polypharmacy in Australia and uses these rates in a needs-based analysis of service provision and workforce adequacy to provide home medicines review services.
What are the implications for practitioners?Several policy options are available for consideration, including interventions to increase workforce productivity and relaxation of the current eligibility criteria for medicines review, especially in rural and remote areas.
Livestock plants and COVID-19 transmission
Authors: Taylor Charles A. , Boulos Christopher , Almond Douglas
Published: November 2020

Significance

The COVID-19 pandemic is a public health and economic crisis in which policymakers face tradeoffs between maintaining essential economic activities and mitigating disease spread. Our study suggests that, among essential industries, livestock processing poses a particular public health risk extending far beyond meatpacking companies and their employees. We estimate livestock plants to be associated with 236,000 to 310,000 COVID-19 cases (6 to 8% of total) and 4,300 to 5,200 deaths (3 to 4% of total) as of July 21. We also illustrate potential contributions of plant size, industrial concentration, plant shutdowns, and policy actions to this phenomenon. These results motivate investigation into supply chains, operating procedures, and labor relations within the meatpacking industry.
Retinol binding protein 4 primes the NLRP3 inflammasome by signaling through Toll-like receptors 2 and 4
Authors: Moraes-Vieira Pedro M. , Yore Mark M. , Sontheimer-Phelps Alexandra , Castoldi Angela , Norseen Julie , Aryal Pratik , Simonyté Sjödin Kotryna , Kahn Barbara B.
Published: November 2020

Significance

There is a growing need for insulin-sensitizing therapies to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D). In obese T2D humans, NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to insulin resistance. Serum levels of retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) are elevated in obese, insulin-resistant humans and RBP4 SNPs that increase adipose RBP4 expression confer greater T2D risk. RBP4 levels correlate with many metabolic syndrome-related components, including cardiovascular disease. RBP4 elevation induces insulin resistance in mice by increasing proinflammatory cytokine secretion from macrophages. Reducing RBP4 in mice with dietary obesity decreases adipose inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity. Here we show RBP4 primes the NLRP3 inflammasome which plays a critical role in RBP4-induced insulin resistance. Thus, the NLRP3-RBP4 axis may provide therapeutic strategies for T2D and its comorbidities.
Event-specific interventions to minimize COVID-19 transmission
Authors: Tupper Paul , Boury Himani , Yerlanov Madi , Colijn Caroline
Published: November 2020

Significance

We provide a simple model of COVID-19 transmission at workplaces, events, and other settings. We use data from reported single-event, short-duration outbreaks to estimate the transmission rate, number of contacts, and turnover at events. We use these to predict how many new infections are expected to occur at various events given the presence of a single infectious individual. We then determine which types of interventions will be the most effective in reducing the number of infections: reducing transmission rates (such as with masks), social distancing (reducing the number of people in contact), or bubbling (keeping contact groups small and consistent).
Enhanced detectivity of PbS quantum dots infrared photodetector by introducing the tunneling effect of PMMA
Authors: Ma Zhenzhen , Li Jiahui , Zhang Yating , Zhao Hongliang , Li Qingyan , Ma Chengqi , Yao Jianquan
Published: November 2020

With extremely high optical absorption coefficient in infrared regime, lead sulfide (PbS) quantum dots (QDs)-based photodetectors are promising for diverse applications. In recent years, synthesis of materials has made great progress, but the problem of low sensitivity of quantum dots photodetector still unresolved. In this work, the introduction of a tunneling organic layer effectively address this problem. The dark current is decreased by the appropriate thickness of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) barrier layer by suppressing the spontaneous migration of ions, and the photogenerated carriers are little effected, thereby the responsivity of the device is improved. As a result, the device exhibits a high responsivity of 3.73 × 105 mA W−1 and a giant specific detectivity of 4.01 × 1013 Jones at a low voltage of −1 V under 1064 nm illumination. In the self-powered mode, the responsivity reaches a value of 157.6 mA W−1, and the detectivity up to 5.9 × 1011 Jones. The performance of the photodetectors is obviously better than most of the reported QDs photodetectors. The design of this device structure provides a new solution to the problem of low sensitivity and high leakage current of quantum dots based infrared photodetectors.