bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indirect exposure to socially defeated conspecifics using recorded video activates the HPA axis and reduces reward sensitivity in mice
Authors: Nakatake Yuko , Furuie Hiroki , Ukezono Masatoshi , Yamada Misa , Yoshizawa Kazumi , Yamada Mitsuhiko
Published: October 2020

Rodents perceive the emotional states of conspecifics using vision. In the present study, we demonstrated that exposure to the video-recorded distress of conspecifics induces stress responses in male C57BL/6J mice. A single exposure to a video-recorded scene of the social defeat stress (SDS) increased plasma corticosterone levels in these mice. This physiological change was suppressed by blocking the visual information, suggesting that vision plays a crucial role in inducing stress responses. Furthermore, after exposure to the video, there were increased numbers of c-Fos-positive neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex and other brain areas that are associated with the negative valence and empathy systems, but not in the regions related to the pain signaling. In addition, repeated exposure to SDS videos induced an apparent reduction in reward sensitivity in the sucrose preference test, but did not affect avoidance behaviour in the social interaction test or immobility behaviour in the forced swim test. Reduced reward sensitivity in mice reflects anhedonia, which is a core symptom of depression in humans. Our video SDS model therefore provides a unique opportunity to not only understand the mechanisms underlying stress-induced anhedonia, but also to screen effective candidate molecules for stress-related disorders with greater reproducibility.
A bioinformatic study of antimicrobial peptides identified in the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)
Authors: Moretta Antonio , Salvia Rosanna , Scieuzo Carmen , Di Somma Angela , Vogel Heiko , Pucci Pietro , Sgambato Alessandro , Wolff Michael , Falabella Patrizia
Published: October 2020

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) play a key role in the innate immunity, the first line of defense against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. AMPs are small molecules, ranging from 10 to 100 amino acid residues produced by all living organisms. Because of their wide biodiversity, insects are among the richest and most innovative sources for AMPs. In particular, the insect Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) shows an extraordinary ability to live in hostile environments, as it feeds on decaying substrates, which are rich in microbial colonies, and is one of the most promising sources for AMPs. The larvae and the combined adult male and female H. illucens transcriptomes were examined, and all the sequences, putatively encoding AMPs, were analysed with different machine learning-algorithms, such as the Support Vector Machine, the Discriminant Analysis, the Artificial Neural Network, and the Random Forest available on the CAMP database, in order to predict their antimicrobial activity. Moreover, the iACP tool, the AVPpred, and the Antifp servers were used to predict the anticancer, the antiviral, and the antifungal activities, respectively. The related physicochemical properties were evaluated with the Antimicrobial Peptide Database Calculator and Predictor. These analyses allowed to identify 57 putatively active peptides suitable for subsequent experimental validation studies.
Comparison of soil microbial community between reseeding grassland and natural grassland in Songnen Meadow
Authors: Zhu Ruifen , Liu Jielin , Wang Jianli , Han Weibo , Shen Zhongbao , Muraina Taofeek O. , Chen Jishan , Sun Dequan
Published: October 2020

Microorganisms have important ecological functions in ecosystems. Reseeding is considered as one of the main strategies for preventing grassland degradation in China. However, the response of soil microbial community and diversity to reseeding grassland (RG) and natural grassland (NG) remains unclear, especially in the Songnen Meadow. In this study, the soil microbial community compositions of two vegetation restoration types (RG vs NG) were analyzed using a high-throughput sequencing technique. A total of 23,142 microbial OTUs were detected, phylogenetically derived from 11 known bacterial phyla. Soil advantage categories includedProteobacteria,Acidobacteria,Actinobacteria, andBacteroidetes, which together accounted for > 78% of the all phyla in vegetation restoration. The soil microbial diversity was higher in RG than in NG. Two types of vegetation restoration had significantly different characteristics of soil microbial community (P< 0.001). Based on a molecular ecological network analysis, we found that the network in RG had a longer average path distance and modularity than in NG network, making it more resilient to environment changes. Meanwhile, the results of the canonical correspondence analysis and molecular ecological network analysis showed that soil pH (6.34 ± 0.35 in RG and 7.26 ± 0.28 in NG) was the main factor affecting soil microbial community structure, followed by soil moisture (SM) in the Songnen meadow, China. Besides, soil microbial community characteristics can vary significantly in different vegetation restoration. Thus, we suggested that it was necessary and reasonable for this area to popularize reseeding grassland in the future.
A comprehensive study on classification of COVID-19 on computed tomography with pretrained convolutional neural networks
Authors: Pham Tuan D.
Published: October 2020

The use of imaging data has been reported to be useful for rapid diagnosis of COVID-19. Although computed tomography (CT) scans show a variety of signs caused by the viral infection, given a large amount of images, these visual features are difficult and can take a long time to be recognized by radiologists. Artificial intelligence methods for automated classification of COVID-19 on CT scans have been found to be very promising. However, current investigation of pretrained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for COVID-19 diagnosis using CT data is limited. This study presents an investigation on 16 pretrained CNNs for classification of COVID-19 using a large public database of CT scans collected from COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 subjects. The results show that, using only 6 epochs for training, the CNNs achieved very high performance on the classification task. Among the 16 CNNs, DenseNet-201, which is the deepest net, is the best in terms of accuracy, balance between sensitivity and specificity, $$F_1$$

F
1

score, and area under curve. Furthermore, the implementation of transfer learning with the direct input of whole image slices and without the use of data augmentation provided better classification rates than the use of data augmentation. Such a finding alleviates the task of data augmentation and manual extraction of regions of interest on CT images, which are adopted by current implementation of deep-learning models for COVID-19 classification.
Author Correction: The potential of gypsum speleothems for paleoclimatology: application to the Iberian Roman Humid Period
Authors: Gázquez Fernando , Bauska Thomas K. , Comas‑Bru Laia , Ghaleb Bassam , Calaforra José‑María , Hodell David A.
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: B4GALNT1 induces angiogenesis, anchorage independence growth and motility, and promotes tumorigenesis in melanoma by induction of ganglioside GM2/GD2
Authors: Yoshida Hideki , Koodie Lisa , Jacobsen Kari , Hanzawa Ken , Miyamoto Yasuhide , Yamamoto Masato
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Multifunctional properties of a star-shaped triphenylamine-benzene-1,3,5-tricarbohydrazide fluorescent molecule containing multiple flexible chains
Authors: Feng Xin , Chen Yating , Lei Yunxiang , Zhou Yunbing , Gao Wenxia , Liu Miaochang , Huang Xiaobo , Wu Huayue
Published: October 2020

A star-shaped triphenylamine-benzene-1,3,5-tricarbohydrazide molecule containing multiple flexible hydrazide chains displays solvatochromism, gelation, aggregation-induced emission, polymorphism, and mechanochromism.
AIE-active mechanoluminescent discotic liquid crystals for applications in OLEDs and bio-imaging
Authors: De Joydip , M. M. Abdul Haseeb , Yadav Rohit Ashok Kumar , Gupta Santosh Prasad , Bala Indu , Chawla Prateek , Kesavan Kiran Kishore , Jou Jwo-Huei , Pal Santanu Kumar
Published: October 2020

A multifunctional molecular design of a fluorescent discotic liquid crystal consisting of a tetraphenylethylene core is reported for OLEDs, mechanochromism and bio-imaging applications.
Laser-induced nano-bismuth decorated CdS–graphene hybrid for plasmon-enhanced photoelectrochemical analysis
Authors: Li Hui , Xia Xin , Guo Chengxiang , Ge Lei , Li Feng
Published: October 2020

Direct-laser-writing of a plasmonic Bi0-based hybrid photoelectrode with a significantly amplified and stable photocurrent response is successfully demonstrated to provide a highly sensitive PEC sensing platform.
The elemental analysis and multi-nuclear NMR study of an alkali molten salt used to digest reference and commercial SWCNT powders
Authors: Simoes Filipa R. F. , Abou-Hamad Edy , Kamenik Jan , Kučera Jan , Costa Pedro M. F. J.
Published: October 2020

Borate fusion as an ICP-OES digestion method of carbon nanotubes.
A microfluidic device for TEM sample preparation
Authors: Hauser Janosch , Kylberg Gustaf , Colomb-Delsuc Mathieu , Stemme Göran , Sintorn Ida-Maria , Roxhed Niclas
Published: October 2020

We present a capillary-driven microfluidic single-use device that prepares a TEM grid with minimal user interaction. The user only initiates the sample preparation process, waits for about one minute and then collects the TEM grid, ready for imaging.
Solvothermal synthesis and characterization of novel [Ni(ii)(Tpy)(Pydc)]·2H2O metal–organic framework as an adsorbent for the uptake of caffeine drug from aqueous solution
Authors: Olawale Margaret D. , Obaleye Joshua O. , Oladele Ebenezer O.
Published: October 2020

[Ni(ii)(Tpy)(Pydc)]·2H2O metal–organic framework is capable of adsorbing 98.4 mg g−1 of caffeine at 30 °C, pH 4 for 1 hour.
The development of an antifouling interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel film for salivary glucose monitoring
Authors: Zhang Zifeng , Dou Qian , Wang Shiwen , Hu Debo , Yang Bei , Zhao Zhipeng , Liu Hongliang , Dai Qing
Published: October 2020

A stable hydration layer is formed in an IPN hydrogel that can achieve high protein resistance and high glucose sensitivity.
In vivo live imaging of bone using shortwave infrared fluorescent quantum dots
Authors: Che Yanjun , Feng Sijia , Guo Jiangbo , Hou Junjun , Zhu Xuesong , Chen Liang , Yang Huilin , Chen Mo , Li Yunxia , Chen Shiyi , Cheng Zhen , Luo Zongping , Chen Jun
Published: October 2020

Bone plays an increasingly critical role in human health and disease.
Reduction-responsive disulfide linkage core-cross-linked polymeric micelles for site-specific drug delivery
Authors: Kuang Gaizhen , Zhang Qingfei , He Shasha , Wu Yanjuan , Huang Yubin
Published: October 2020

Reduction-responsive disulfide linkage core-cross-linked polymeric micelles (CLM@DOX) were developed for effective site-specific doxorubicin delivery.
Suzuki–Miyaura catalyst-transfer polycondensation of triolborate-type fluorene monomer: toward rapid access to polyfluorene-containing block and graft copolymers from various macroinitiators
Authors: Kobayashi Saburo , Fujiwara Kaiyu , Jiang Dai-Hua , Yamamoto Takuya , Tajima Kenji , Yamamoto Yasunori , Isono Takuya , Satoh Toshifumi
Published: October 2020

We demonstrated that the Suzuki–Miyaura catalyst transfer polycondensation of a triolborate-type fluorene monomer can be an efficient and versatile approach to the synthesis of polyfluorenes (PFs) and PF-containing block and graft copolymers.
Simultaneous estimation of dimenhydrinate, cinnarizine and their toxic impurities benzophenone and diphenylmethylpiperazine; in silico toxicity profiling of impurities
Authors: Abdelwahab Nada S. , Edrees Fadwa H. , Alsaadi Mohammed T. , Amin Noha H. , Saad Ahmed S.
Published: October 2020

TLC-densitometric analysis of dimenhydrinate, cinnarizine and their highly toxic impurities.
Highly cost-effective platinum-free anion exchange membrane electrolysis for large scale energy storage and hydrogen production
Authors: Vincent Immanuel , Lee Eun-Chong , Kim Hyung-Man
Published: October 2020

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis eradicates platinum group metal electrocatalysts and diaphragms and is used in conventional proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis and alkaline electrolysis.
A comparison of experimental and theoretical studies of benzoquinone modified poly(thiophene): effect of polymerization techniques on the structure and properties
Authors: Singh Neetika , Singh Sumit , Kumar Prabhat , Riaz Ufana
Published: October 2020

The present manuscript reports the synthesis of benzoquinone (BQ) modified polythiophene (PTh) by chemical and microwave-assisted polymerization techniques.
Co-digestion of microalgae with potato processing waste and glycerol: effect of glycerol addition on methane production and the microbial community
Authors: Zhang Yanghanzi , Caldwell Gary S. , Blythe Philip T. , Zealand Andrew M. , Li Shuo , Edwards Simon , Xing Jin , Goodman Paul , Whitworth Paul , Sallis Paul J.
Published: October 2020

Glycerol as an additional co-substrate enhanced methane yields by up to 128% when co-digestion with microalgae and potato waste.
Ag, Ge dual-gradient substitution for low-energy loss and high-efficiency kesterite solar cells
Authors: Fu Junjie , Kou Dongxing , Zhou Wenhui , Zhou Zhengji , Yuan Shengjie , Qi Yafang , Wu Sixin
Published: October 2020

A generic Ag, Ge dual gradient substitution is proposed to minimize the bulk and interface recombination losses in kesterite solar cells.
Lanthanide nanoparticles with efficient near-infrared-II emission for biological applications
Authors: Ge Xiaoqian , Wei Ruoyan , Sun Lining
Published: October 2020

We discuss designing efficient NIR-II-emitting lanthanide NPs and summarize their recent progress in bioimaging, therapy, and biosensing, as well as their limitations and future opportunities.
Transparent electrodes based on spray coated fluorine-doped tin oxide with enhanced optical, electrical and mechanical properties
Authors: Kim Jaewon , Wong Sherman , Kim Gahui , Park Young-Bae , van Embden Joel , Della Gaspera Enrico
Published: October 2020

Transparent and conducting FTO coatings are fabricated via ultrasonic spray pyrolysis achieving exceptional optical, electrical and mechanical properties.
Three-dimensional porous borocarbonitride BC2N with negative Poisson's ratio
Authors: Hussain Kashif , Younis Umer , Muhammad Imran , Qie Yu , Guo Yaguang , Li Tingwei , Xie Huanhuan , Sun Qiang
Published: October 2020

Motivated by the recent synthesis of three-dimensional (3D) porous borocarbonitride (Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., 2019,58, 6033–6037), we propose a porous 3D-BC2N structure composed of BC2N nanoribbons.
Endothelial-specific overexpression of cationic amino acid transporter-1 prevents loss of kidney function in heart failure
Authors: Giam Beverly , Nomura Haru , Kuruppu Sanjaya , Chu Po-Yin , Essid Sumia , Kiriazis Helen , Du Xiao-Jun , Kaye David M. , Rajapakse Niwanthi W.
Published: October 2020

Heart failure (HF) is associated with impaired L-arginine transport. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that augmented L-arginine transport prevents the loss of kidney function in HF. Renal function was assessed in wildtype mice (WT), transgenic mice with HF (dilated cardiomyopathy, DCM) and double transgenic mice (double transgenic mice with DCM and CAT-1 overexpression, HFCAT-1) with HF and endothelial-specific overexpression of the predominant L-arginine transporter, cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1) (n=4-8/group). Cardiac function was assessed via echocardiography and left ventricular catheterisation. Renal function was assessed via quantification of albuminuria and creatinine clearance. Plasma nitrate and nitrite levels together with renal fibrosis and inflammatory markers were also quantified at study end. Albumin/creatinine ratio was two-fold greater in DCM mice than in WT mice (P=0.002), and tubulointerstitial and glomerular fibrosis were approximately eight- and three-fold greater, respectively, in DCM mice than in WT mice (P≤0.02). Critically, urinary albumin/creatinine ratio and tubulointerstitial and glomerular fibrosis were less in HFCAT-1 mice than in DCM mice (P<0.05). Renal CAT-1 expression and plasma nitrate and nitrite levels were less in DCM mice compared with WT (P≤0.03) but was greater in HFCAT-1 mice than in DCM mice (P≤0.009). Renal expression of IL-10 was less in DCM mice compared with WT (P<0.001) but was greater in HFCAT-1 mice compared with DCM mice (P=0.02). Our data provide direct evidence that augmented L-arginine transport prevents renal fibrosis, inflammation and loss of kidney function in HF.
The EDGE-CALIFA survey: exploring the role of molecular gas on galaxy star formation quenching
Authors: Colombo D. , Sanchez S. F. , Bolatto A. D. , Kalinova V. , Weiß A. , Wong T. , Rosolowsky E. , Vogel S. N. , Barrera-Ballesteros J. , Dannerbauer H. , Cao Y. , Levy R. C. , Utomo D. , Blitz L.
Published: October 2020

Understanding how galaxies cease to form stars represents an outstanding challenge for galaxy evolution theories. This process of “star formation quenching” has been related to various causes, including active galactic nuclei activity, the influence of large-scale dynamics, and the environment in which galaxies live. In this paper, we present the first results from a follow-up of CALIFA survey galaxies with observations of molecular gas obtained with the APEX telescope. Together with the EDGE-CARMA observations, we collected12CO observations that cover approximately one effective radius in 472 CALIFA galaxies. We observe that the deficit of galaxy star formation with respect to the star formation main sequence (SFMS) increases with the absence of molecular gas and with a reduced efficiency of conversion of molecular gas into stars, which is in line with the results of other integrated studies. However, by dividing the sample into galaxies dominated by star formation and galaxies quenched in their centres (as indicated by the average value of the Hαequivalent width), we find that this deficit increases sharply once a certain level of gas consumption is reached, indicating that different mechanisms drive separation from the SFMS in star-forming and quenched galaxies. Our results indicate that differences in the amount of molecular gas at a fixed stellar mass are the primary drivers for the dispersion in the SFMS, and the most likely explanation for the start of star formation quenching. However, once a galaxy is quenched, changes in star formation efficiency drive how much a retired galaxy differs in its star formation rate from star-forming ones of similar masses. In other words, once a paucity of molecular gas has significantly reduced star formation, changes in the star formation efficiency are what drives a galaxy deeper into the red cloud, hence retiring it.
The temperature dependence of the work function of oxide electrodes in fluorescent lamps
Authors: Langer Reinhard , Tidecks Reinhard
Published: October 2020

In the present work the temperature dependence of the work function of oxide cathodes in operating fluorescent lamps was investigated experimentally. A detailed review on the theory is presented, including a thermodynamic and a quantum mechanical view on the problem. Aspects such as the role of the electrochemical potential, external and internal potentials, the constituents of the electron affinity, the patch effect and surface states are discussed. For solids in contact the Volta and Galvani potentials are related to their work functions. The importance of colour centres in oxide electrodes on the temperature dependence of the work function and the impact of ultraviolet radiation is emphasized. The measurements have been carried out under zero field emission of electrons from the electrode, using the Waymouth (rf) and Eisenmann (visual) methods as indicators. By inserting an empirical ansatz into the Richardson equation, it was possible to determine the temperature dependence of the work function from the experiments.
The process of production of liquefied methane - the component of rocket propellant
Authors: Domashenko Anatoly M. , Dovbish Andrey L.
Published: October 2020

The use of new fuel components, such as LNG or liquefied methane, in rocket-space, aviation and other special-purpose engineering is promising. On the basis of these fuel components it is possible to provide a number of technical and tactical parameters of aircrafts, which are not achievable when using standard fuels.

Considered were the cryogenic systems developed by PJSC "Cryogenmash" for natural gas liquefaction with liquid methane recovery by the method of low-temperature condensation, stage separation and rectification. The second method allows to reduce the content of not only low boiling but also high boiling liquids in methane liquefied.
Use of cryogenic components of propellants for liquid-propellant rocket engines and in life support systems of manned space vehicles
Authors: Orlin Sergei A.
Published: October 2020

The cited materials show the use of oxygen, hydrogen, liquefied natural gases (methane) and fluorine as components of the fuel for liquid-propellant rocket engines (LRE). The reasons for the need to use oxygen as an oxidizing agent are indicated. The advantages and disadvantages are disclosed from the point of view of using the listed components as fuel elements for liquid-propellant rocket engines. The issues of ecology when using the considered fuels are reviewed. Shown not only the use of cryogenic components as fuel for LRE, but also in life support systems in manned spacecraft in space research.
Analysis of argon isotope separation by low temperature adsorption
Authors: Bondarenko Vitaly L. , Kupriyanov Maxim Y. , Verkhovnyi Artem I.
Published: October 2020

In this work, the estimated calculated values of the critical parameters of argon isotopes 36Ar, 38Ar, 40Ar and the corresponding values of the constants of the Van der Waals, Redlich-Kwong and Peng-Robinson equations of state are obtained. The data obtained make it possible to calculate the adsorption isotherms of argon isotopes on microporous adsorbents. The technique proposed for obtaining analytical expressions for the adsorption isotherms of argon isotopes at cryogenic temperatures makes it possible to estimate the degree of influence of the pressure of the isotope mixture and its composition on the mixture separations coefficients.
Mathematical modeling of non-steady heat exchange process in cryogenic coil-wound heat exchangers
Authors: Vorob’ev Aleksandr A. , Posanchukov Dmitriy P. , Kozlov Aleksandr A. , Ivanov Aleksey V.
Published: October 2020

The paper discusses a dynamic model of coil-wound heat exchanger and its implementation in the MathWorks SimulinkTM computer simulation system. As a simulation object was chosen a coil-wound heat exchanger with wire-finned tubes of a commercial low-capacity air separation unit. The methods for obtaining experimental data has been described, the non-steady heat exchange process has been simulated, and the obtained results have been analyzed.
Matching Testing Possibilities and Needed Experiments for Successful Vapor Compression Cycles in Microgravity
Authors: Brendel Leon P. M. , Braun James E. , Groll Eckhard A.
Published: October 2020

The literature shows five decades of interest in vapor compression cooling for spacecraft, while only very few conclusions can be drawn because of either non-systematic approaches or sparsely documented experiments. In contrast, the demand for high COP refrigerators and freezers has increased with the emerging plans of long duration manned space travel. Research is needed exploiting all available testing approaches to investigate two-phase cycles in microgravity environments. This paper presents relevant testing possibilities with their characteristics and outlines open questions regarding vapor compression cycles in space. Beneficial experiments are derived from open questions and matched with available testing methods to prescribe a path towards reliable and efficient refrigeration systems in microgravity.
The Comparative Analysis of External Heat Transfer Calculation Methods for a Solar Aircraft Spacesuit
Authors: Rezanov E.A. , Merkulov V.I. , Rossova K.V. , Tishchenko I.V.
Published: October 2020

This article presents an assessment of the external thermal load on the life support system of a solar aircraft under extreme operating conditions. The calculation was carried out for the maximum and minimum possible heat flows in the key points of the aircraft flight. In this article the conditions on the Earth’s surface and at the operating altitude of the aircraft were taken as calculated. The dependence of the quantitative changes in the heat load on the aircraft from altitude was revealed, taking into account changes of thermal properties of the environment and mechanisms of heat transfer.
Foreword for Visualized Cancer Medicine: The era for dynamic visuals is here
Authors: Qian Chao-Nan , Pezzella Francesco , Lu Zhimin
Published: October 2020

We have seen in many circumstances of cancer research and clinical practice that the process itself is more critical and valuable than the result. For better presenting the natural movements of studied subject as well as the processes of medical intervention in treating patient, we proudly launch Visualized Cancer Medicine as a peer-reviewed publication platform covering all relevant topics in which videos play a critical role for presenting the results or the procedures. We appreciate the constant supports from our rigorous authors, dedicating editorial staff members, creative informative technology engineers, and enthusiastic readers. We hope that our small step of establishing Visualized Cancer Medicine for better scientific presentation would foster giant leaps of our understanding on cancer, which would subsequently benefit human being in many ways.
The Impact of Artificial Tear Viscosity on the Results of Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Hannemann Elisa , Erb Carl
Published: October 2020

Background In earlier studies, an irregular tear film could be responsible for artifacts in imaging procedures in ophthalmology. As a result, this study will investigate the influence of hyaluronic acid-containing tear substitutes of different viscosities on the measurement results of optical coherence tomography and on the non-invasive tear film break-up time.

Methods The study included three sessions in which three hyaluronic acid tear substitutes of different viscosities (Hylo-Vision 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, OmniVision GmbH, Puchheim, Germany) were applied to each subject. In 20 healthy volunteers, the non-invasive tear film break-up time was measured before and after the application of the tear substitutes using Keratograph 5M (Oculus GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) and optical coherence tomography using 3D OCT-2000 (Topcon, Hamburg, Germany).

Results The median age of the volunteers was 28.5 years. 11 women (55%) and 9 men (45%) were examined. The non-invasive tear film break-up time improved significantly (p = 0.027) after the application of 0.3% hyaluronic acid. In the study, no significant difference was found in all OCT parameters used before and after application of the different viscous hyaluronic acid-containing tear substitutes.

Conclusion In this study, no influence of tear substitutes containing different viscosities of hyaluronic acid on the measurement results of optical coherence tomography could be determined. Therefore, 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3% hyaluronic acid can be applied to the patient to improve the corneal surface before the examination with optical coherence tomography, without influencing the measurement results of optical coherence tomography.
Addendum to S3-Guidelines Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: Management of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the COVID-19 Pandemic – open questions and answers
Authors: Stallmach Andreas , Sturm Andreas , Dignass Axel , Kucharzik Torsten , Blumenstein Irina , Helwig Ulf , Koletzko Sibylle , Lynen Petra , Schmidt Carsten ,   Collaborators:
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global outbreak of new onset infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. To date, more than 3.4 million people have been infected throughout the world. In Germany, approximately 450,000 patients suffer from inflammatory bowel disease; these patients generally require continuous expert care and support. Against the background of a rapidly accumulating knowledge base on SARS-CoV-2, 68 expert authors of the current DGVS guidelines for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis took part in a virtual meeting to compile up-to-date, practice-orientated recommendations aimed at improving the care of patients with IBD. These recommendations address the risk of infection, including the risk for specific patient groups, the possible course of the disease, and consequences for pharmacological and surgical therapies of the underlying disease, as well as general measures for infection prevention and adjuvant prophylactic and therapeutic options.
Let7b-5p is Upregulated in the Serum of Emirati Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Regulates Insulin Secretion in INS-1 Cells
Authors: Aljaibeji Hayat , Elemam Noha Mousaad , Mohammed Abdul Khader , Hasswan Hind , Thahyabat Mahammad Al , Alkhayyal Noura , Sulaiman Nabil , Taneera Jalal
Published: October 2020

Let7b-5p is a member of the Let-7 miRNA family and one of the top expressed miRNAs in human islets that implicated in glucose homeostasis. The levels of Let7b-5p in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients or its role in β-cell function is still unclear. In the current study, we measured the serum levels of let7b-5p in Emirati patients with T2DM (with/without complications) and control subjects. Overexpression or silencing of let7b-5p in INS-1 (832/13) cells was performed to investigate the impact on insulin secretion, content, cell viability, apoptosis, and key functional genes. We found that serum levels of let7b-5p are significantly (p<0.05) higher in T2DM-patients or T2DM with complications compared to control subjects. Overexpression of let7b-5p increased insulin content and decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, whereas silencing of let7b-5p reduced insulin content and secretion. Modulation of the expression levels of let7b-5p did not influence cell viability nor apoptosis. Analysis of mRNA and protein expression of hallmark genes in let7b-5p transfected cells revealed a marked dysregulation of Insulin, Pancreatic And Duodenal Homeobox 1 (PDX1), glucokinase (GCK), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), and INSR. In conclusion, an appropriate level of let7b-5p is essential to maintain β-cell function and may be regarded as a biomarker for T2DM.
Imaging Anatomy of the Jaw and Dentition with Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Dhont Kathleen , Bernaerts Anja , Vanhoenacker Charlotte , Vanhoenacker Filip M. , De Foer Bert
Published: October 2020

Knowledge of dental, maxillary, and mandibular anatomy and the use of correct nomenclature is critical in the evaluation of a mandibulofacial and/or maxillofacial imaging data set. The use of the correct diagnostic imaging tool tailored to the patient's needs is of equal importance. This article highlights imaging anatomy and cross-sectional imaging modalities mainly focusing on cone beam computed tomography of the mandibulofacial and maxillofacial region.
Nano-indentation mechanical characterizations of solution processed inorganic metal oxide thin films and influence of grain size
Authors: Ullah Sana , De Matteis Fabio , Lucci Massimiliano , Davoli Ivan
Published: October 2020

Aluminum-doped zinc oxide thin films were prepared by solution synthesis where molarity concentrations and mixing ratios for oxide and dopant sources were changed while deposition and pre- and post-deposition annealing steps remained the same. Post-deposition high-temperature annealing is known to improve conductivity and transparency but may deteriorate the mechanical characteristics of films. However, we report the successful preparation of thin films with high mechanical hardness (>11 MPa) and reduced modulus (>102 MPa) along with high electro-optical characteristics even after multiple annealing steps. Changes in grain sizes because of changes in molarity concentrations and difference of atomic radii caused mechanical characteristics of films. Both regular and inverse Hall–Petch relations were observed.
Chemical trends of n-type doping of Al, Ga, In, and Ti donors for ZnO polycrystalline films deposited by direct-current magnetron sputtering
Authors: Nomoto Junichi , Makino Hisao , Tsuchiya Tetsuo , Yamamoto Tetsuya
Published: October 2020

We investigated the effects of various donors such as Al, Ga, In, and Ti atoms on the properties of ZnO polycrystalline films. The contents of the dopants in the sintered targets ranged from 0.25 to 5.0 mol. %. To reduce the contribution of grain boundary scattering to the carrier transport, we used an amorphous glass substrate with 10-nm-thick Ga-doped ZnO films showing a texture with a well-defined (0001) orientation. 490-nm-thick n-type doped ZnO films were deposited at a substrate temperature of 200 °C by direct current magnetron sputtering with a power of 200 W. We found that Ga doping resulted in a high carrier concentration at any given donor content, whereas Al doping was an effective way of achieving ZnO polycrystalline films with a high Hall mobility. We also found that In-doped ZnO films have a high density of in-gap states, resulting in high optical absorption in the visible wavelength region. X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurement results clearly show the dependence of the occupation sites of incorporated Ti atoms on Ti contents.
Flowing cryogenic liquid target for terahertz wave generation
Authors: E Yiwen , Cao Yuqi , Ling Fang , Zhang X.-C.
Published: October 2020

Terahertz wave emission from liquids excited by intense laser pulses not only reflects the details in laser–matter interaction but also offers bright terahertz wave sources. Flowing liquid targets possess the advantage of providing a fresh area for each laser pulse. To demonstrate a debris-free target under laser excitation, we investigate the use of liquid nitrogen as a target. By creating a flowing liquid nitrogen line in an ambient environment, we successfully observe broadband terahertz wave emission under short pulse excitation. Our cryogenic line is able to sustain the excitation of a high-repetition-rate (1 kHz) laser. The terahertz peak field emitted from liquid nitrogen is comparable to that from liquid water, yet a broader bandwidth is observed. This demonstration prompts opportunities in choosing potential materials for studying terahertz wave generation processes and in understanding laser-induced ionization of different liquids.
The effects of oxygen-induced phase segregation on the interfacial electronic structure and quantum efficiency of Cs3Sb photocathodes
Authors: Galdi Alice , DeBenedetti William J. I. , Balajka Jan , Cultrera Luca , Bazarov Ivan V. , Maxson Jared M. , Hines Melissa A.
Published: October 2020

High-performance photocathodes for many prominent particle accelerator applications, such as x-ray free-electron lasers, cannot be grown in situ. These highly reactive materials must be grown and then transported to the electron gun in an ultrahigh-vacuum (UHV) suitcase, during which time monolayer-level oxidation is unavoidable. Thin film Cs3Sb photocathodes were grown on a variety of substrates. Their performance and chemical state were measured by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy after transport in a UHV suitcase as well as after O2-induced oxidation. The unusual chemistry of cesium oxides enabled trace amounts of oxygen to drive structural reorganization at the photocathode surface. This reorganization pulled cesium from the bulk photocathode, leading to the development of a structurally complex and O2-exposure-dependent cesium oxide layer. This oxidation-induced phase segregation led to downward band bending of at least 0.36 eV as measured from shifts in the Cs 3d5/2 binding energy. At low O2 exposures, the surface developed a low work function cesium suboxide overlayer that had little effect on quantum efficiency (QE). At somewhat higher O2 exposures, the overlayer transformed to Cs2O; no antimony or antimony oxides were observed in the near-surface region. The development of this overlayer was accompanied by a 1000-fold decrease in QE, which effectively destroyed the photocathode via the formation of a tunnel barrier. The O2 exposures necessary for degradation were quantified. As little as 100 L of O2 irreversibly damaged the photocathode. These observations are discussed in the context of the rich chemistry of alkali oxides, along with potential material strategies for photocathode improvement.
Hybrid optogenetic and electrical stimulation for greater spatial resolution and temporal fidelity of cochlear activation
Authors: Thompson Alex C , Wise Andrew K , Hart William L , Needham Karina , Fallon James B , Gunewardene Niliksha , Stoddart Paul R , Richardson Rachael T
Published: October 2020

Objective. Compared to electrical stimulation, optogenetic stimulation has the potential to improve the spatial precision of neural activation in neuroprostheses, but it requires intense light and has relatively poor temporal kinetics. We tested the effect of hybrid stimulation, which is the combination of subthreshold optical and electrical stimuli, on spectral and temporal fidelity in the cochlea by recording multiunit activity in the inferior colliculus of channelrhodopsin (H134R variant) transgenic mice. Approach. Pulsed light or biphasic electrical pulses were delivered to cochlear spiral ganglion neurons of acutely deafened mice, either as individual stimuli or as hybrid stimuli for which the timing of the electrical pulse had a varied delay relative to the start of the optical pulse. Response thresholds, spread of activation and entrainment data were obtained from multi-unit recordings from the auditory midbrain. Main results. Facilitation occurred when subthreshold electrical stimuli were applied at the end of, or up to 3.75 ms after subthreshold optical pulses. The spread of activation resulting from hybrid stimulation was significantly narrower than electrical-only and optical-only stimulation (p < 0.01), measured at equivalent suprathreshold levels of loudness that are relevant to cochlear implant users. Furthermore, temporal fidelity, measured as maximum following rates to 300 ms pulse trains bursts up to 240 Hz, was 2.4-fold greater than optical-only stimulation (p < 0.05). Significance. By significantly improving spectral resolution of electrical- and optical-only stimulation and the temporal fidelity of optical-only stimulation, hybrid stimulation has the potential to increase the number of perceptually independent stimulating channels in a cochlear implant.
Network structure of cascading neural systems predicts stimulus propagation and recovery
Authors: Ju Harang , Kim Jason Z , Beggs John M , Bassett Danielle S
Published: October 2020

Objective. Many neural systems display spontaneous, spatiotemporal patterns of neural activity that are crucial for information processing. While these cascading patterns presumably arise from the underlying network of synaptic connections between neurons, the precise contribution of the network’s local and global connectivity to these patterns and information processing remains largely unknown. Approach. Here, we demonstrate how network structure supports information processing through network dynamics in empirical and simulated spiking neurons using mathematical tools from linear systems theory, network control theory, and information theory. Main results. In particular, we show that activity, and the information that it contains, travels through cycles in real and simulated networks. Significance. Broadly, our results demonstrate how cascading neural networks could contribute to cognitive faculties that require lasting activation of neuronal patterns, such as working memory or attention.
Efficiency of the crystallizing waterproofing admixture in lower-quality concrete
Authors: Figmig R
Published: October 2020

The article deals with the topic of a crystallizing waterproof admixture using in concrete. This type of admixture is designated for making a hardened concrete more durable by minimizing its permeability. Considering that concretes of higher strength classes meet the requirements for durability parameters in most cases, in this experiment 3 low-durability (in terms of high w/c ratio) concrete (Dmax8) batches were mixed. From each of mixture, 2 sets of samples (with and without the admixture) were prepared for depth of penetration of water under pressure test, strength test and water absorption test after 28 days of curing. Likewise, samples for microscopic visual assessment of crack-filling process were produced. Cracks onto these samples were intentionally introduced after their curing in time of 7 days and subsequently were further cured under water and regularly observed. According to the results, tested admixture acted more counter-productive than helpfully.
Indoor air quality in classrooms of a newly built school
Authors: Harčárová K
Published: October 2020

The presented paper deals with the evaluation of the quality of the indoor environment in a new school building with modular construction. The required short-term measurements were carried out in two selected classrooms. Selected physical-chemical factors such as thermal comfort, sound level, lighting conditions, concentration of CO2, particulate matter (PM0.5-PM10) and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) were monitored. Based on the obtained results, it was shown that the values of operative temperature, relative humidity and air velocity measured in selected rooms meet the requirements given by legislation. The average CO2 concentration was exceeded in both classes, which may lead to headaches and concentration problems in pupils. Concentrations of PM2.5 were below the acceptable limit, while PM10 concentrations were exceeded in both classes. The recommended TVOC concentration of 200 ug/m3, which does not yet cause discomfort and has no adverse health effects, was exceeded in both classrooms.
Improvement of the backfilling characteristics by activation of halite waste for non-waste geotechnology
Authors: Khayrutdinov A M , Kongar-Syuryun Ch , Kowalik T , Faradzhov V
Published: October 2020

To reduce the frequency of man-made disasters it is recommended to use development of deposits systems with backfilling of working space at potash mines. The use of halite enrichment waste in the filing mixture is proposed in order to improve the technical and economic indicators of the mine and the environmental situation in the mining area. The factors influencing the choice of development technology with artificial maintaining of winning area are considered. The advantages and disadvantages of using the technology of the backfilling are indicated. Aspects of preparation of hardening backfill and questions of improvement of its quality by disintegration activation of components are revealed. The possibility of activation of halite enrichment waste used as an inert aggregate in disintegrators is considered.
Blast load analysis of overpass columns with various cross-sections
Authors: Lukić S , Draganić H
Published: October 2020

The column is one of the most important elements of the bridge because its destruction can cause a collapse of the entire bridge. The aim of the research is to analyse the blast behaviour of the overpass columns on Croatian roads and highways. Based on the archive documents of design plans the most common cross-sectional shapes of the reinforced concrete column were selected. The literature provides formulas for calculation of blast pressure that depends on the distance of the explosive from the target and the amount of explosive. However, the cross-sectional shape of the column plays a significant role in retaining the pressure and impulse on the column and its distribution by column height and width. This cannot be predicted by theoretical expressions, and therefore a numerical simulation that takes into account the column geometry is required. The columns were modelled in the Ansys Autodyn hydrocode software for a supposed scenario in which an auto bomb was placed below the bridge at a distance of 2 m from the column. Based on the numerical simulations it was concluded that the circular column had the lowest pressure on the surface directly exposed to the blast load. This is due to its roundness and the angles at which the pressure was reflected. In contrast, the back surface of the circular column has the highest pressure of all the analysed columns. Generally, rectangular cross-sections have a higher pressure on the directly loaded surface. For more detailed analysis and experimental testing, a rectangular column (P6) with recesses was selected due to its high pressures on both, the front and back surfaces. Selected overpass i.e. its column was designed using the old seismic regulations and as a part of further research, its blast behaviour will be compared to the column designed using modern seismic regulations.
The Effect of the changing cover thickness on the stability of cellars
Authors: Zenah J , Görög P
Published: October 2020

The stability of natural and man-made cavities is a very important topic nowadays especially if it is located under new construction areas. There are a lot of residential areas in Budapest and other cities of Europe such as Rome, Paris, and Cracow with stability problems because of cavities. For stability calculations, the geometry of the cavity, strength properties of the rock mass and joints are needed as input parameters, which can be obtained by field and laboratory tests. The FEM software is effective for stability calculations and with them; it is not so difficult to perform parametric analysis. This paper is focusing on the effect of the thickness of the cellar cover on their stability. The investigation site is in Budapest, Hungary, where there are several cellars cut into porous limestone. These cellars are more than 100 years old and nowadays cause difficulties for the building improvements. The geometrical parameters of the cellars and strength properties were measured. The cover of the studied cellar is around 6.0 m, but other cellars in the area have various cover thicknesses from 2.0 to 9.0 m. Therefore, the paper studied the effect of the cover on the stability to find the relation between the depth and the cellar stability. The modelling has been done by Rocscience software (RS2), using a real cross-section that crosses six branches of the cellar system.
The grapes of dispute resolution: arbitration and wine
Authors: Menjucq Michel , Gouiffès Laurent
Published: October 2020

This article explores the interplay between arbitration and wine law and the possibility of having increased recourse to arbitration in wine-related disputes. Since Antiquity, wine production and commercialization have been subject to specific regulations, which have progressively given rise to modern wine law. Wine law is primarily focused on the protection of the geographical origin and branding of wine as well as consumer protection, fields typically inadequate for arbitration. However, wine law also covers wine commercialization and related operations such as vineyard sales, which offer many opportunities for arbitration in the wake of the internationalization of wine production and trade. This is particularly true since the wine sector is characterized by both very specific trade usages and a high degree of technicality, which require adjudicators of wine-related disputes to have a high degree of sectorial expertise. Arbitration therefore appears to be a particularly well-suited means of dispute adjudication for wine-related litigation, as illustrated by the authors’ experience.