bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mortality risk in atrial fibrillation: the role of aspirin, vitamin K and non-vitamin K antagonists
Authors: Gieling Emilie , de Vries Frank , Williams Rachael , van Onzenoort Hein A. W. , de Boer Anthonius , ten Cate Vincent , Kramers Cornelis , Burden Andrea
Published: October 2019

Background As an alternative to vitamin K antagonist and low-dose aspirin (< 325 mg), non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants are available for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, the mortality risk associated with these drugs in daily practice remains unclear. Objective To evaluate the risk of all-cause mortality associated with non-Vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants, vitamin K antagonists or aspirin in patients with atrial fibrillation. Setting A cohort study conducted among atrial fibrillation patients using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (March 2008–October 2014). Method New users of vitamin K antagonists, non vitamin K oral anticoagulants, low-dose aspirin, or combination therapy were followed from the date of first prescription to the date of death, as recorded in the UK datalink. Cox proportional hazard models estimated the hazard ratio (HR) of all-cause mortality for users of NOACs, aspirin, or combination use, as compared to vitamin K antagonist. Analyses were adjusted for confounders. Main outcome measure All-cause mortality. Results We identified 31,497 patients. Non vitamin K antocoagulant use (adjusted HR [aHR] = 1.42; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.18–1.71) and aspirin use (aHR = 1.64; 95% CI 1.57–1.77) were both significantly associated with a higher mortality risk than use of vitamin K antagonists. The higher mortality risk for the non vitamin K anticoagulant use was observed in men (aHR = 1.72; 95% CI 1.25–2.36), but not in women (aHR = 1.28; 95% CI 0.92–1.79. Compared to  vitamin K antagonists, mortality risk associated with the non vitamin K anticoagulants and aspirin use was significantly increased in patients with higher stroke risk (CHA2DS2-VASc > 2). Conclusion Non vitamin K oral anticoagulants are  associated with a higher risk on all-cause mortality, particularly in men and in patients with higher stroke risk.
Statistical methods for dementia risk prediction and recommendations for future work: A systematic review
Authors: Goerdten Jantje , Čukić Iva , Danso Samuel O. , Carrière Isabelle , Muniz‐Terrera Graciela
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Numerous dementia risk prediction models have been developed in the past decade. However, methodological limitations of the analytical tools used may hamper their ability to generate reliable dementia risk scores. We aim to review the used methodologies.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the literature from March 2014 to September 2018 for publications presenting a dementia risk prediction model. We critically discuss the analytical techniques used in the literature.

Results

In total 137 publications were included in the qualitative synthesis. Three techniques were identified as the most commonly used methodologies: machine learning, logistic regression, and Cox regression.

Discussion

We identified three major methodological weaknesses: (1) over‐reliance on one data source, (2) poor verification of statistical assumptions of Cox and logistic regression, and (3) lack of validation. The use of larger and more diverse data sets is recommended. Assumptions should be tested thoroughly, and actions should be taken if deviations are detected.
The bidirectional association between maternal speech and child characteristics
Authors: MIMEAU Catherine , CANTIN Édith , TREMBLAY Richard E. , BOIVIN Michel , DIONNE Ginette
Published: October 2019

Our aim was to assess whether infants influence the quantity and quality of their mothers’ speech to them and, in turn, whether this maternal speech influences children's later language. As 189 mothers interacted with each of their twins at age 0;5, we calculated the number of utterances, the proportion of sensitive utterances, and the proportion of self-repeated utterances they produced. We later assessed the twins’ language comprehension and production when they were 1;6, 2;6, and 5;2. Quantity of maternal speech predicted child language at 5;2, whereas sensitivity predicted child language at 2;6 and 5;2 and partial self-repetition predicted child language at 1;6. Conversely, sensitivity and partial self-repetition in maternal speech at 0;5 were associated with genetic factors from the child, indicating that infant characteristics influence the quality of maternal speech. Overall, our findings stress the importance of considering both directions in the association between maternal speech and child characteristics.
Expansion trees with cut
Authors: Aschieri Federico , Hetzl Stefan , Weller Daniel
Published: October 2019

Herbrand’s theorem is one of the most fundamental insights in logic. From the syntactic point of view, it suggests a compact representation of proofs in classical first- and higher-order logics by recording the information of which instances have been chosen for which quantifiers. This compact representation is known in the literature as Miller’s expansion tree proof. It is inherently analytic and hence corresponds to a cut-free sequent calculus proof. Recently several extensions of such proof representations to proofs with cuts have been proposed. These extensions are based on graphical formalisms similar to proof nets and are limited to prenex formulas.

In this paper, we present a new syntactic approach that directly extends Miller’s expansion trees by cuts and also covers non-prenex formulas. We describe a cut-elimination procedure for our expansion trees with cut that is based on the natural reduction steps and shows that it is weakly normalizing.
Extensions of the Erdős–Gallai theorem and Luo’s theorem
Authors: Ning Bo , Peng Xing
Published: October 2019

The famous Erdős–Gallai theorem on the Turán number of paths states that every graph with n vertices and m edges contains a path with at least (2m)/n edges. In this note, we first establish a simple but novel extension of the Erdős–Gallai theorem by proving that every graph G contains a path with at least
$${{(s + 1){N_{s + 1}}(G)} \over {{N_s}(G)}} + s - 1$$
edges, where Nj(G) denotes the number of j-cliques in G for 1≤ j ≤ ω(G). We also construct a family of graphs which shows our extension improves the estimate given by the Erdős–Gallai theorem. Among applications, we show, for example, that the main results of [20], which are on the maximum possible number of s-cliques in an n-vertex graph without a path with ℓ vertices (and without cycles of length at least c), can be easily deduced from this extension. Indeed, to prove these results, Luo [20] generalized a classical theorem of Kopylov and established a tight upper bound on the number of s-cliques in an n-vertex 2-connected graph with circumference less than c. We prove a similar result for an n-vertex 2-connected graph with circumference less than c and large minimum degree. We conclude this paper with an application of our results to a problem from spectral extremal graph theory on consecutive lengths of cycles in graphs.
Dielectric metasurfaces for complete and independent control of the optical amplitude and phase
Authors: Overvig Adam C. , Shrestha Sajan , Malek Stephanie C. , Lu Ming , Stein Aaron , Zheng Changxi , Yu Nanfang
Published: October 2019

Metasurfaces are optically thin metamaterials that promise complete control of the wavefront of light but are primarily used to control only the phase of light. Here, we present an approach, simple in concept and in practice, that uses meta-atoms with a varying degree of form birefringence and rotation angles to create high-efficiency dielectric metasurfaces that control both the optical amplitude and phase at one or two frequencies. This opens up applications in computer-generated holography, allowing faithful reproduction of both the phase and amplitude of a target holographic scene without the iterative algorithms required in phase-only holography. We demonstrate all-dielectric metasurface holograms with independent and complete control of the amplitude and phase at up to two optical frequencies simultaneously to generate two- and three-dimensional holographic objects. We show that phase-amplitude metasurfaces enable a few features not attainable in phase-only holography; these include creating artifact-free two-dimensional holographic images, encoding phase and amplitude profiles separately at the object plane, encoding intensity profiles at the metasurface and object planes separately, and controlling the surface textures of three-dimensional holographic objects.
Developing neuroscience-based treatments for alcohol addiction: A matter of choice?
Authors: Heilig Markus , Augier Eric , Pfarr Simone , Sommer Wolfgang H.
Published: October 2019

Excessive alcohol use is the cause of an ongoing public health crisis, and accounts for ~5% of global disease burden. A minority of people with recreational alcohol use develop alcohol addiction (hereafter equated with “alcohol dependence” or simply “alcoholism”), a condition characterized by a systematically biased choice preference for alcohol at the expense of healthy rewards, and continued use despite adverse consequences (“compulsivity”). Alcoholism is arguably the most pressing area of unmet medical needs in psychiatry, with only a small fraction of patients receiving effective, evidence-based treatments. Medications currently approved for the treatment of alcoholism have small effect sizes, and their clinical uptake is negligible. No mechanistically new medications have been approved since 2004, and promising preclinical results have failed to translate into novel treatments. This has contributed to a reemerging debate whether and to what extent alcohol addiction represents a medical condition, or reflects maladaptive choices without an underlying brain pathology. Here, we review this landscape, and discuss the challenges, lessons learned, and opportunities to retool drug development in this important therapeutic area.
HIF1α inhibition facilitates Leflunomide-AHR-CRP signaling to attenuate bone erosion in CRP-aberrant rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Liang Chao , Li Jie , Lu Cheng , Xie Duoli , Liu Jin , Zhong Chuanxin , Wu Xiaohao , Dai Rongchen , Zhang Huarui , Guan Daogang , Guo Baosheng , He Bing , Li Fangfei , He Xiaojuan , Zhang Wandong , Zhang Bao-Ting , Zhang Ge , Lu Aiping
Published: October 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by progressive bone erosion. Leflunomide is originally developed to suppress inflammation via its metabolite A77 1726 to attenuate bone erosion. However, distinctive responsiveness to Leflunomide is observed among RA individuals. Here we show that Leflunomide exerts immunosuppression but limited efficacy in RA individuals distinguished by higher serum C-reactive protein (CRPHigher, CRPH), whereas the others with satisfactory responsiveness to Leflunomide show lower CRP (CRPLower, CRPL). CRP inhibition decreases bone erosion in arthritic rats. Besides the immunomodulation via A77 1726, Leflunomide itself induces AHR-ARNT interaction to inhibit hepatic CRP production and attenuate bone erosion in CRPL arthritic rats. Nevertheless, high CRP in CRPH rats upregulates HIF1α, which competes with AHR for ARNT association and interferes Leflunomide-AHR-CRP signaling. Hepatocyte-specific HIF1α deletion or a HIF1α inhibitor Acriflavine re-activates Leflunomide-AHR-CRP signaling to inhibit bone erosion. This study presents a precision medicine-based therapeutic strategy for RA.
Fungal dissemination is limited by liver macrophage filtration of the blood
Authors: Sun Donglei , Sun Peng , Li Hongmei , Zhang Mingshun , Liu Gongguan , Strickland Ashley B. , Chen Yanli , Fu Yong , Xu Juan , Yosri Mohammed , Nan Yuchen , Zhou Hong , Zhang Xiquan , Shi Meiqing
Published: October 2019

Fungal dissemination into the bloodstream is a critical step leading to invasive fungal infections. Here, using intravital imaging, we show that Kupffer cells (KCs) in the liver have a prominent function in the capture of circulatingCryptococcus neoformansandCandida albicans, thereby reducing fungal dissemination to target organs. Complement C3 but not C5, and complement receptor CRIg but not CR3, are involved in capture ofC. neoformans. Internalization ofC. neoformansby KCs is subsequently mediated by multiple receptors, including CR3, CRIg, and scavenger receptors, which work synergistically along with C5aR signaling. Following phagocytosis, the growth ofC. neoformansis inhibited by KCs in an IFN-γ independent manner. Thus, the liver filters disseminating fungi from circulation via KCs, providing a mechanistic explanation for the enhanced risk of cryptococcosis among individuals with liver diseases, and suggesting a therapeutic strategy to prevent fungal dissemination through enhancing KC functions.
Dipole states and coherent interaction in surface-acoustic-wave coupled phononic resonators
Authors: Raguin Laetitia , Gaiffe Olivier , Salut Roland , Cote Jean-Marc , Soumann Valérie , Laude Vincent , Khelif Abdelkrim , Benchabane Sarah
Published: October 2019

Manipulation of mechanical motion at the micro-scale has been attracting continuous attention, leading to the successful implementation of various strategies with potential impact on classical and quantum information processing. We propose an approach based on the interplay between a pair of localised mechanical resonators and travelling surface acoustic waves (SAW). We demonstrate the existence of a two-sided interaction, allowing the use of SAW to trigger and control the resonator oscillation, and to manipulate the elastic energy distribution on the substrate through resonator coupling. Observation of the vectorial structure of the resonator motion reveals the existence of two coupling regimes, a dipole-dipole-like interaction at small separation distance versus a surface-mediated mechanical coupling at larger separation. These results illustrate the potential of this platform for coherent control of mechanical vibration at a resonator level, and reciprocally for manipulating SAW propagation using sub-wavelength elements.
Upconversion superballs for programmable photoactivation of therapeutics
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Jayakumar Muthu Kumara Gnanasammandhan , Zheng Xiang , Shikha Swati , Zhang Yi , Bansal Akshaya , Poon Dennis J. J. , Chu Pek Lim , Yeo Eugenia L. L. , Chua Melvin L. K. , Chee Soo Khee , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2019

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are the preferred choice for deep-tissue photoactivation, owing to their unique capability of converting deep tissue-penetrating near-infrared light to UV/visible light for photoactivation. Programmed photoactivation of multiple molecules is critical for controlling many biological processes. However, syntheses of such UCNPs require epitaxial growth of multiple shells on the core nanocrystals and are highly complex/time-consuming. To overcome this bottleneck, we have modularly assembled two distinct UCNPs which can individually be excited by 980/808 nm light, but not both. These orthogonal photoactivable UCNPs superballs are used for programmed photoactivation of multiple therapeutic processes for enhanced efficacy. These include sequential activation of endosomal escape through photochemical-internalization for enhanced cellular uptake, followed by photocontrolled gene knockdown of superoxide dismutase-1 to increase sensitivity to reactive oxygen species and finally, photodynamic therapy under these favorable conditions. Such programmed activation translated to significantly higher therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo in comparison to conventional, non-programmed activation.
Development of high-throughput ATR-FTIR technology for rapid triage of brain cancer
Authors: Butler Holly J. , Brennan Paul M. , Cameron James M. , Finlayson Duncan , Hegarty Mark G. , Jenkinson Michael D. , Palmer David S. , Smith Benjamin R. , Baker Matthew J.
Published: October 2019

Non-specific symptoms, as well as the lack of a cost-effective test to triage patients in primary care, has resulted in increased time-to-diagnosis and a poor prognosis for brain cancer patients. A rapid, cost-effective, triage test could significantly improve this patient pathway. A blood test using attenuated total reflection (ATR)-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for the detection of brain cancer, alongside machine learning technology, is advancing towards clinical translation. However, whilst the methodology is simple and does not require extensive sample preparation, the throughput of such an approach is limited. Here we describe the development of instrumentation for the analysis of serum that is able to differentiate cancer and control patients at a sensitivity and specificity of 93.2% and 92.8%. Furthermore, preliminary data from the first prospective clinical validation study of its kind are presented, demonstrating how this innovative technology can triage patients and allow rapid access to imaging.
Electro-optic imaging enables efficient wide-field fluorescence lifetime microscopy
Authors: Bowman Adam J. , Klopfer Brannon B. , Juffmann Thomas , Kasevich Mark A.
Published: October 2019

Nanosecond temporal resolution enables new methods for wide-field imaging like time-of-flight, gated detection, and fluorescence lifetime. The optical efficiency of existing approaches, however, presents challenges for low-light applications common to fluorescence microscopy and single-molecule imaging. We demonstrate the use of Pockels cells for wide-field image gating with nanosecond temporal resolution and high photon collection efficiency. Two temporal frames are obtained by combining a Pockels cell with a pair of polarizing beam-splitters. We show multi-label fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), single-molecule lifetime spectroscopy, and fast single-frame FLIM at the camera frame rate with 103–105 times higher throughput than single photon counting. Finally, we demonstrate a space-to-time image multiplexer using a re-imaging optical cavity with a tilted mirror to extend the Pockels cell technique to multiple temporal frames. These methods enable nanosecond imaging with standard optical systems and sensors, opening a new temporal dimension for wide-field low-light microscopy.
Global ocean methane emissions dominated by shallow coastal waters
Authors: Weber Thomas , Wiseman Nicola A. , Kock Annette
Published: October 2019

Oceanic emissions represent a highly uncertain term in the natural atmospheric methane (CH4) budget, due to the sparse sampling of dissolved CH4 in the marine environment. Here we overcome this limitation by training machine-learning models to map the surface distribution of methane disequilibrium (∆CH4). Our approach yields a global diffusive CH4 flux of 2–6TgCH4yr−1 from the ocean to the atmosphere, after propagating uncertainties in ∆CH4 and gas transfer velocity. Combined with constraints on bubble-driven ebullitive fluxes, we place total oceanic CH4 emissions between 6–12TgCH4yr−1, narrowing the range adopted by recent atmospheric budgets (5–25TgCH4yr−1) by a factor of three. The global flux is dominated by shallow near-shore environments, where CH4 released from the seafloor can escape to the atmosphere before oxidation. In the open ocean, our models reveal a significant relationship between ∆CH4 and primary production that is consistent with hypothesized pathways of in situ methane production during organic matter cycling.
Robust thermoelastic microactuator based on an organic molecular crystal
Authors: Duan Yulong , Semin Sergey , Tinnemans Paul , Cuppen Herma , Xu Jialiang , Rasing Theo
Published: October 2019

Mechanically responsive molecular crystals that reversibly change shape triggered by external stimuli are invaluable for the design of actuators for soft robotics, artificial muscles and microfluidic devices. However, their strong deformations usually lead to their destruction. We report a fluorenone derivative (4-DBpFO) showing a strong shear deformation upon heating due to a structural phase transition which is reproducible after more than hundred heating/cooling cycles. Molecular dynamic simulations show that the transition occurs through a nucleation-and-growth mechanism, triggered by thermally induced rotations of the phenyl rings, leading to a rearrangement of the molecular configuration. The applicability as actuator is demonstrated by displacing a micron-sized glass bead over a large distance, delivering a kinetic energy of more than 65 pJ, corresponding to a work density of 270 J kg−1. This material can serve as a prototype structure to direct the development of new types of robust molecular actuators.
Activated carbon fibers for toxic gas removal based on electrical investigation: Mechanistic study of p-type/n-type junction structures
Authors: Bai Byong Chol , Lee Young-Seak , Im Ji Sun
Published: October 2019

In this study, we evaluated the potential use of CuO-ZnO combination structures with activated carbon fibers (ACFs) for the adsorption (by ACFs) and electrochemical detection (by CuO-ZnO) by of SO2 gas. The gas adsorptivity was concluded to improve as a result of the synergetic effects of physical adsorption by the micropores and mesopores, the specific surface area developed by chemical activation and the chemical adsorption reaction between SO2 and the transition metals introduced in the CuO-ZnO combination structures. From comparison of the SO2 sensing properties, the CuO-ZnO combination structures with ACFs exhibited the fastest sensing capability. This result can be attributed to the larger specific surface area of the semiconductor, which extended its depletion layer by forming p-type CuO/n-type ZnO junctions. This phenomenon led to good SO2 detection through a decrease in the resistance; thus, the contributions of the sensing responses of p-type CuO and n-type ZnO represent a predominant characteristic of the sensor. These types of mechanisms were proven through various physicochemical and electrical characterization methods, especially through evaluation of the SO2 sensing capability of the CuO-ZnO combination structures with ACFs. The reversible sensing capability indicates that the p-n junction structure changed the electrical properties of the ACFs, leading to an intriguing sensing mechanism.
Differential Impact of Emotion on Semantic Processing of Abstract and Concrete Words: ERP and fMRI Evidence
Authors: Pauligk Sophie , Kotz Sonja A. , Kanske Philipp
Published: October 2019

Emotional valence is known to influence word processing dependent upon concreteness. Whereas some studies point towards stronger effects of emotion on concrete words, others claim amplified emotion effects for abstract words. We investigated the interaction of emotion and concreteness by means of fMRI and EEG in a delayed lexical decision task. Behavioral data revealed a facilitating effect of high positive and negative valence on the correct processing of abstract, but not concrete words. EEG data yielded a particularly low amplitude response of the late positive component (LPC) following concrete neutral words. This presumably indicates enhanced allocation of processing resources to abstract and emotional words at late stages of word comprehension. In fMRI, interactions between concreteness and emotion were observed within the semantic processing network: the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) and the left middle temporal gyrus (MTG). Higher positive or negative valence appears to facilitate semantic retrieval and selection of abstract words. Surprisingly, a reversal of this effect occurred for concrete words. This points towards enhanced semantic control for emotional concrete words compared to neutral concrete words. Our findings suggest fine-tuned integration of emotional valence and concreteness. Specifically, at late processing stages, semantic control mechanisms seem to integrate emotional cues depending on the previous progress of semantic retrieval.
Tristetraprolin targets Nos2 expression in the colonic epithelium
Authors: Eshelman Melanie A. , Matthews Stephen M. , Schleicher Emily M. , Fleeman Rebecca M. , Kawasawa Yuka Imamura , Stumpo Deborah J. , Blackshear Perry J. , Koltun Walter A. , Ishmael Faoud T. , Yochum Gregory S.
Published: October 2019

Tristetraprolin (TTP), encoded by the Zfp36 gene, is a zinc-finger protein that regulates RNA stability primarily through association with 3′ untranslated regions (3′ UTRs) of target mRNAs. While TTP is expressed abundantly in the intestines, its function in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) is unknown. Here we used a cre-lox system to remove Zfp36 in the mouse epithelium to uncover a role for TTP in IECs and to identify target genes in these cells. While TTP was largely dispensable for establishment and maintenance of the colonic epithelium, we found an expansion of the proliferative zone and an increase in goblet cell numbers in the colon crypts of Zfp36ΔIEC mice. Furthermore, through RNA-sequencing of transcripts isolated from the colons of Zfp36fl/fl and Zfp36ΔIEC mice, we found that expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNos or Nos2) was elevated in TTP-knockout IECs. We demonstrate that TTP interacts with AU-rich elements in the Nos2 3′ UTR and suppresses Nos2 expression. In comparison to control Zfp36fl/fl mice, Zfp36ΔIEC mice were less susceptible to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced acute colitis. Together, these results demonstrate that TTP in IECs targets Nos2 expression and aggravates acute colitis.
Dissemination of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae harbouring blaNDM or blaIMI in local market foods of Yangon, Myanmar
Authors: Sugawara Yo , Hagiya Hideharu , Akeda Yukihiro , Aye Mya Mya , Myo Win Hpoo Pwint , Sakamoto Noriko , Shanmugakani Rathina Kumar , Takeuchi Dan , Nishi Isao , Ueda Akiko , Htun Moh Moh , Tomono Kazunori , Hamada Shigeyuki
Published: October 2019

The spread of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) poses a serious threat to clinical practice and public health. These bacteria are present both in clinical settings and non-clinical environments. The presence of CPE in food stuffs has been reported, but sporadically so. Here, we screened for CPE in meat, seafood, and vegetable samples from local markets of Yangon, Myanmar. We obtained 27 CPE isolates from 93 food samples and identified 13 as Escherichia coli, six as Klebsiella pneumoniae, seven as Enterobacter cloacae complex, and one as Serratia marcescens. All except the E. cloacae complex harboured the carbapenemase genes blaNDM-1 or blaNDM-5, while all Enterobacter isolates carried the carbapenemase gene blaIMI-1. The blaIMI-1 gene was located in putative mobile elements EcloIMEX-2, -3, or -8. Using multi-locus sequence typing, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and E. cloacae complex isolates were classified into 10, six, and five different sequence types, respectively. Our results demonstrate that diverse organisms with various carbapenemase genes are widespread in the market foods in Yangon, highlighting the need for promoting proper food hygiene and effective measures to prevent further dissemination.
Global airborne microbial communities controlled by surrounding landscapes and wind conditions
Authors: Tignat-Perrier Romie , Dommergue Aurélien , Thollot Alban , Keuschnig Christoph , Magand Olivier , Vogel Timothy M. , Larose Catherine
Published: October 2019

The atmosphere is an important route for transporting and disseminating microorganisms over short and long distances. Understanding how microorganisms are distributed in the atmosphere is critical due to their role in public health, meteorology and atmospheric chemistry. In order to determine the dominant processes that structure airborne microbial communities, we investigated the diversity and abundance of both bacteria and fungi from the PM10 particle size (particulate matter of 10 micrometers or less in diameter) as well as particulate matter chemistry and local meteorological characteristics over time at nine different meteorological stations around the world. The bacterial genera Bacillus and Sphingomonas as well as the fungal species Pseudotaeniolina globaosa and Cladophialophora proteae were the most abundant taxa of the dataset, although their relative abundances varied greatly based on sampling site. Bacterial and fungal concentration was the highest at the high-altitude and semi-arid plateau of Namco (China; 3.56 × 106 ± 3.01 × 106 cells/m3) and at the high-altitude and vegetated mountain peak Storm-Peak (Colorado, USA; 8.78 × 104 ± 6.49 × 104 cells/m3), respectively. Surrounding ecosystems, especially within a 50 km perimeter of our sampling stations, were the main contributors to the composition of airborne microbial communities. Temporal stability in the composition of airborne microbial communities was mainly explained by the diversity and evenness of the surrounding landscapes and the wind direction variability over time. Airborne microbial communities appear to be the result of large inputs from nearby sources with possible low and diluted inputs from distant sources.
Author Correction: Neuronal firing rates diverge during REM and homogenize during non-REM
Authors: Miyawaki Hiroyuki , Watson Brendon O. , Diba Kamran
Published: October 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Osteogenic potential of Zn2+-passivated carbon dots for bone regeneration in vivo
Authors: Wang Bo , Yang Mingxi , Liu Lijun , Yan Guangxing , Yan Hongjing , Feng Jing , Li Zhimin , Li Daowei , Sun Hongchen , Yang Bai
Published: October 2019

Zn-CDs showed good osteogenic capability, biocompatibility and fluorescence properties for bone regeneration.
Recent progress in supramolecular peptide assemblies as virus mimics for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Cai Ying , Ran Wei , Zhai Yihui , Wang Junyang , Zheng Chao , Li Yaping , Zhang Pengcheng
Published: October 2019

Supramolecular peptide assemblies can mimic natural viruses and serve as well-defined, dynamic and multifunctional nanoplatforms for cancer immunotherapy, where the peptide segments act as antigens, adjuvants and carriers.
Affinity prediction computations and mechanosynthesis of carbamazepine based cocrystals
Authors: Roca-Paixão Luisa , Correia Natália T. , Affouard Frédéric
Published: October 2019

A combination of the excess enthalpy with the fusion entropy of the pure coformer is suggested to be of interest for coformers screening in order to form a multicomponent system with a given API (cocrystal/co-amorphous).
Fullerene C24 as a potential carrier of ephedrine drug – a computational study of interactions and influence of temperature
Authors: Tomić Bogdan T. , Abraham Christina Susan , Pelemiš Svetlana , Armaković Sanja J. , Armaković Stevan
Published: October 2019

Interactions between fullerene C24 and a frequently used supplement for sport activities, ephedrine (EPH), have been studied in detail by a combination of DFT, TDDFT and SAPT calculations, and MD simulations.
Hyperconjugation promoted by hydrogen bonding between His98/His241 and a carboxyl group contributes to tyrosine decarboxylase catalysis
Authors: Ni Jie , Xu Guochao , Dai Wei , Zhao Yi-Lei , Ni Ye
Published: October 2019

This article first demonstrates the utility of the σ → π* hyperconjugation by His98 and His241 in pyridoxal 5′-phosphate-dependent tyrosine decarboxylase.
Exceptional performance of hierarchical Ni–Fe oxyhydroxide@NiFe alloy nanowire array electrocatalysts for large current density water splitting
Authors: Liang Caiwu , Zou Peichao , Nairan Adeela , Zhang Yongqi , Liu Jiaxing , Liu Kangwei , Hu Shengyu , Kang Feiyu , Fan Hong Jin , Yang Cheng
Published: October 2019

Exceptionally high OER & HER performances were achieved by rationally designing the electrode structure of non-noble NiFe materials.
Effects of strawberry supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hadi Amir , Askarpour Moein , Miraghajani Maryam , Symonds Michael E. , Sheikhi Ali , Ghaedi Ehsan
Published: October 2019

Based on our findings, strawberry supplements that contained 10–454 g day−1 freeze-dried/fresh strawberries and taken for 3–12 weeks can improve DBP, CRP, MDA and LDL.
It's a trap! On the nature of localised states and charge trapping in lead halide perovskites
Authors: Jin Handong , Debroye Elke , Keshavarz Masoumeh , Scheblykin Ivan G. , Roeffaers Maarten B. J. , Hofkens Johan , Steele Julian A.
Published: October 2019

The recent surge of scientific interest for lead halide perovskite semiconductors and optoelectronic devices has seen a mix of materials science sub-fields converge on the same “magical” crystal structure.
Simultaneous magnetic dispersive micro solid phase extraction of valsartan and atorvastatin using a CMC-coated Fe3O4 nanocomposite prior to HPLC-UV detection: multivariate optimization
Authors: Azadi Ali , Ahmadi Shahin
Published: October 2019

In this study, a sensitive, rapid, accurate and practical procedure is established for determination of atorvastatin and valsartan from human biological fluids by dispersive micro solid phase extraction (D-μ-SPE) combined with HPLC-UV detector.
Rapid template-free synthesis of nanostructured conducting polymer films by tuning their morphology using hyperbranched polymer additives
Authors: Lu Chun-Fu , Liao Song-Fu , Wang Ke-Hsin , Chen Chin-Ti , Chao Chi-Yang , Su Wei-Fang
Published: October 2019

Surface morphology of conducting polymer thin films can be tuned into a porous continuous nanofibril network by employing hyperbranched polymer additives.
Asymmetric synthesis of spiro-structural 2,3-dihydrobenzofuransviathe bifunctional phosphonium salt-promoted [4 + 1] cyclization ofortho-quinone methides with α-bromoketones
Authors: Zhang Song , Yu Xiaojun , Pan Jianke , Jiang Chunhui , Zhang Hongsu , Wang Tianli
Published: October 2019

A practical and scalable method for highly stereoselective construction of spiro-2,3-dihydrobenzofuransviacyclization ofortho-quinone methides and α-bromoketones by bifunctional phosphonium salt catalysis was developed.
Extractable impurities from fluoropolymer-based membrane filters – interference in high-throughput, untargeted analysis
Authors: Puah Perng Yang , Herng Lee Dexter Jiunn , Mak Ken Hing , Ang Hui Jun , Chen Hsing-Chang , Moh Pak Yan , Fong Siat Yee , Ling Yee Soon
Published: October 2019

Investigation of the impurities leaching behavior of the syringe filters.
Synthesis of bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanes by (3 + 2) annulation of cyclopropenes with aminocyclopropanes
Authors: Muriel Bastian , Gagnebin Alec , Waser Jerome
Published: October 2019

(3 + 2) annulation of cyclopropenes and aminocyclopropanes under mild photoredox conditions leading to bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanes with high diastereoselectivity for fluorinated derivatives.
Chemical biology tools for probing transcytosis at the blood–brain barrier
Authors: Beard Rhiannon , Gaboriau David C. A. , Gee Antony D. , Tate Edward W.
Published: October 2019

A BBB vehicle library is validated, establishing a SAR for uptake. Merging AMT/RMT motifs chemoselectively increased permeability.
Diverse balances of tubulin interactions and shape change drive and interrupt microtubule depolymerization
Authors: Bollinger Jonathan A. , Stevens Mark J.
Published: October 2019

Microtubules undergo catastrophically-fast depolymerization that can be reversed during “rescue” events. Coarse-grained molecular simulations reveal how these behaviors may be controlled tubulin conformation.
Laser-engineered oxygen vacancies for improving the NO2 sensing performance of SnO2 nanowires
Authors: Kwon Yong Jung , Kim Hyoun Woo , Ko Woo Chul , Choi Heechae , Ko Yong-Ho , Jeong Young Kyu
Published: October 2019

The NO2 sensing performance of SnO2 nanowires was enhanced through the formation of oxygen vacancies which were generated by laser irradiation.
The effect of Ag alloying of Cu2(Zn,Cd)SnS4 on the monograin powder properties and solar cell performance
Authors: Timmo Kristi , Altosaar Mare , Pilvet Maris , Mikli Valdek , Grossberg Maarja , Danilson Mati , Raadik Taavi , Josepson Raavo , Krustok Jüri , Kauk-Kuusik Marit
Published: October 2019

The reported results confirm that the positive effect of Ag in (Cu1−xAgx)1.85(Zn0.8Cd0.2)1.1SnS4 MGL solar cells appears only at very low Ag concentrations (x ≤ 1%).
Plasma-activated CoOx nanoclusters supported on graphite intercalation compounds for improved CO2 electroreduction to formate
Authors: Zhang Qiang , He Anbang , Yang Yong , Du Jun , Liu Zuohua , Tao Changyuan
Published: October 2019

The CO2 electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) to chemicals and fuels is of both fundamental and practical significance, since it can lead to the more efficient storage of renewable energy and promote the carbon cycle.
Low-temperature synthesis of small-sized high-entropy oxides for water oxidation
Authors: Wang Dongdong , Liu Zhijuan , Du Shiqian , Zhang Yiqiong , Li Hao , Xiao Zhaohui , Chen Wei , Chen Ru , Wang Yanyong , Zou Yuqin , Wang Shuangyin
Published: October 2019

A novel low temperature strategy was developed for preparing high entropy oxide, which is conducive to solve the bottlenecks encountered by traditional methods and broaden their application areas.
Facile fabrication of a hierarchical NiCoFeP hollow nanoprism for efficient oxygen evolution in the Zn–air battery
Authors: He Bin , Xu Chunyu , Tang Yawen , Qian Yong , Liu Hongke , Hao Qingli , Su Zhi
Published: October 2019

The Ni2P–Co2P–Fe2P hybrid hollow nanoprism has been synthesized under facile conditions and utilized in the Zn–air battery with excellent stability.
Progress in electrospun composite nanofibers: composition, performance and applications for tissue engineering
Authors: Gao Xize , Han Shuyan , Zhang Ruhe , Liu Guiting , Wu Jun
Published: October 2019

The discovery of novel methods to fabricate optimal scaffolds that mimic both mechanical and functional properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) has always been the “holy grail” in tissue engineering.
Ti2VGe Heuslerene: theoretical prediction of a novel 2D material
Authors: Boochani Arash , Jamal Morteza , Shahrokhi Masoud , Nowrozi Bromand , Gholivand Mohammad Bagher , Khodadadi Jabbar , Sartipi Elmira , Amiri Maliheh , Asshabi Moein , Yari Arash
Published: October 2019

The possibility of a new graphene-like slice of the Heusler compounds, named Heuslerene, is predicted.
The mechanical, electronic and optical properties of two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides MX2 and M2X3 (M = Ni, Pd; X = S, Se, Te) with hexagonal and orthorhombic structures
Authors: Xiong Wenqi , Huang Kaixiang , Yuan Shengjun
Published: October 2019

Orthorhombic TMCs are found to be potential auxetics and photocatalysts.
Ferromagnetic Ising chains in frustrated LnODCO3: the influence of magnetic structure in magnetocaloric frameworks
Authors: Dixey Richard J. C. , Stenning Gavin B. G. , Manuel Pascal , Orlandi Fabio , Saines Paul J.
Published: October 2019

Understanding how to tune magnetic interactions to optimise the magnetocaloric effect is crucial for designing more efficient solid state refrigerants; this work probes this relationship for the promising LnODCO3phases.
Adaptive suppression of main‐lobe spread Doppler clutter with high directivity for HFSSWR using oblique projection
Authors: Ding Mingkai , Wei Yinsheng , Yu Lei , Tong Peng
Published: October 2019

The performance of high‐frequency hybrid sky‐surface wave radar (HFSSWR) is known to suffer from the spread Doppler clutter (SDC). As a major source of the SDC, ionospheric clutter generally possesses high directivity within the main detection range. Classical coherent sidelobe cancellation method provides an efficient way to suppress the highly directional clutter. However, it performs poorly when the directions of a target and the clutter are both in the main lobe. To address this problem, a novel clutter suppression method using oblique projection is proposed, which does not require priori knowledge of the targets, such as directions, Doppler frequencies, strength etc. By combining training data selection based on oblique projection with SDC suppression in the Doppler domain, this method is implemented in the interested range cell for all target directions. Experimental results indicate that the proposed method can achieve better clutter suppression performance based on real data.
Data‐driven human‐like cut‐in driving model using generative adversarial network
Authors: Yun Y. , Jeong D. , Lim S.
Published: October 2019

In this Letter, the authors developed a data‐driven human‐like cut‐in driving model using a generative adversarial network (GAN). When a vehicle cuts into the lane of another vehicle, complex interactions occur among the various vehicles. The purpose of the GAN driver model is to learn the human‐driving abilities in complex and diverse situations. Using the Kullback–Leibler divergence evaluation method, the authors confirmed that the GAN driver model shows more human‐like driving than the rule‐based driver model.
Orbital angular momentum beamforming for index modulation with partial arc reception
Authors: Zhao Yufei , Zhang Chao
Published: October 2019

A novel beamforming (BF) method for orbital angular momentum (OAM) index modulation (IM) scheme is proposed in this Letter. Since the OAM wave has an inverted cone‐shaped beam structure, only partial phase plane can be received during long distance transmission. Based on this partial phase plane information, an OAM–IM system can be established. Since the receiver is only located on a partial arc of the cone‐shaped beam, the energy of the whole beam cannot be fully received. However, by adjusting the combinations of multiple OAM beams, the energy of the cone‐shaped beam will be converged to a specific direction where the receiver is located. Compared with the traditional BF method, as a new degree of freedom, the OAM–BF method can not only increase the flexibility of beam steering, but also realise the IM information transmission on the partial receiving phase plane.
Virtual linear measurement system for accurate quantification of medical images
Authors: Wheeler Gavin , Deng Shujie , Pushparajah Kuberan , Schnabel Julia A. , Simpson John M. , Gomez Alberto
Published: October 2019

Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to aid in the understanding of complex volumetric medical images, by providing an immersive and intuitive experience accessible to both experts and non‐imaging specialists. A key feature of any clinical image analysis tool is measurement of clinically relevant anatomical structures. However, this feature has been largely neglected in VR applications. The authors propose a Unity‐based system to carry out linear measurements on three‐dimensional (3D), purposefully designed for the measurement of 3D echocardiographic images. The proposed system is compared to commercially available, widely used image analysis packages that feature both 2D (multi‐planar reconstruction) and 3D (volume rendering) measurement tools. The results indicate that the proposed system provides statistically equivalent measurements compared to the reference 2D system, while being more accurate than the commercial 3D system.
Deep segmentation leverages geometric pose estimation in computer‐aided total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro , Antunes Michel , Raposo Carolina , Marques Pedro , Fonseca Fernando , Barreto Joao P.
Published: October 2019

Knee arthritis is a common joint disease that usually requires a total knee arthroplasty. There are multiple surgical variables that have a direct impact on the correct positioning of the implants, and an optimal combination of all these variables is the most challenging aspect of the procedure. Usually, preoperative planning using a computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging helps the surgeon in deciding the most suitable resections to be made. This work is a proof of concept for a navigation system that supports the surgeon in following a preoperative plan. Existing solutions require costly sensors and special markers, fixed to the bones using additional incisions, which can interfere with the normal surgical flow. In contrast, the authors propose a computer‐aided system that uses consumer RGB and depth cameras and do not require additional markers or tools to be tracked. They combine a deep learning approach for segmenting the bone surface with a recent registration algorithm for computing the pose of the navigation sensor with respect to the preoperative 3D model. Experimental validation using ex‐vivo data shows that the method enables contactless pose estimation of the navigation sensor with the preoperative model, providing valuable information for guiding the surgeon during the medical procedure.
Augmented reality mastectomy surgical planning prototype using the HoloLens template for healthcare technology letters
Authors: Amini Sara , Kersten‐Oertel Marta
Published: October 2019

In breast reconstruction following a single mastectomy, the surgeon needs to choose between tens of available implants to find the one that can reproduce the symmetry of the patient's breasts. However, due to the lack of measurement tools this decision is made purely visually, which means the surgeon has to order multiple implants to confirm the size for every single patient. In this Letter, the authors present an augmented reality application, which enables surgeons to see the shape of the implants, as 3D holograms on the patient's body. They custom developed a two‐chamber implant that can gain different shapes and be used to test the system. Furthermore, the system was tested in a user study with 13 subjects. The study showed that subjects were able to do a comparison between real and holographic implants and come to a decision about which should be used. This method can be quicker than the traditional way and eliminates sizer implants from the process. Further advantages of the method include the use of a more accurate, user‐friendly device, which is easily extendable as new implants that are on the market can be easily added to the system dataset.
Multiuser detection for uplink non‐orthogonal multiple access system
Authors: Chen Min , Burr Alister
Published: October 2019

Non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) makes multiple users to overload the same wireless resources by utilising the superposition coding principle, so that NOMA can improve the system capacity and spectral efficiency. Therefore, NOMA has recently received considerable attention as a promising candidate to address some of the challenges for 5G. Various NOMA schemes including the power‐domain NOMA (PD‐NOMA) are proposed, and successive interference cancellation (SIC) is applied for detection, which limits the promised performance gain brought by NOMA due to the error propagation. In this study, the authors introduce an iterative interference cancellation (IIC) detection scheme for uplink PD‐NOMA system by using parallel interference cancellation (PIC) scheme. The interleave division multiple access is also employed for improving system performance. A new detection scheme based on IIC is proposed, which is called advanced IIC (AIIC). The simulation results show that the bit error rate performance of AIIC is much better than that of SIC, and is close to that of maximum a posteriori. The AIIC can obtain the promised performance gain brought by NOMA.