bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A narrative of conservative student affairs professionals: Silenced in an inclusive profession?
Authors: Davis Jeremy N. , Birnbaum Matthew , Law Rosa I.
Published: April 2020

Public universities are often perceived as predominantly liberal environments where conservative voices are silenced. This stands in contrast to the idea that higher education, and student affairs in particular, should foster an environment in which multiple perspectives are valued. In this narrative study, we share the stories of ten self-identified conservative student affairs professionals and their experience at a public institution of higher education. To inform our study we used the spiral of silence theory, which suggests individuals having opinions diverging from the majority will remain silent about their beliefs rather than face negative consequences. Data analysis and findings provide an understanding of how conservative ideology influenced relationships, professional engagement and overall work environment.
Produtividade de milho e retorno econômico em sistema integrado de produção com doses de nitrogênio
Authors: Besen Marcos Renan , Ribeiro Ricardo Henrique , Goetten Marina , Fioreze Samuel Luiz , Guginski-Piva Claudia Aparecida , Piva Jonatas Thiago
Published: April 2020

O milho é altamente exigente e responsivo à adubação com nitrogênio (N), estando inserido em vários sistemas produtivos, com destaque recente para os sistemas integrados de produção. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de doses de N sob o milho, bem como o aspecto econômico em sistema integrado. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi de blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Foram avaliadas quatro doses de N em cobertura (0, 40, 80 e 120 kg ha-1). O milho foi cultivado sob palhada do consórcio de aveia e azevém. Verificou-se que diâmetro do colmo, altura de inserção da espiga, e características da espiga, com exceção do número de fileiras por espiga aumentaram linearmente em função das doses de N, por sua vez, a altura da planta respondeu de forma quadrática até a dose de 81 kg ha-1 de N. A produtividade aumentou de forma expressiva em função do N, indicando efeito residual da adubação no inverno e elevada eficiência de uso do N no sistema produtivo. A maior produtividade e lucratividade foram obtidas na dose de 120 kg ha-1 N.
Modification of the position of the angulus oris with a rotation flap and a YV flap in lip reconstruction
Authors: Kiuchi Tomoki , Yazawa Masaki , Ohshiro Takafumi , Kishi Kazuo
Published: April 2020

Functionally, the lip serves to prevent food and drink from spilling out of the beginning of the gastrointestinal tract, and it is also used for vocalization. In addition, the lip has cosmetic importance as part of the face involved in making expressions, and in many cultures, it is considered to be sexually appealing. The results of lip reconstruction procedures must therefore be both functionally and cosmetically satisfactory. When the orbicularis oris muscle and oral mucosa are excised, functional reconstruction is prioritized. In contrast, if there are no functional problems, cosmetic reconstruction is the main focus. This case involved the reconstruction of a right upper lip defect caused by a dog bite. When the skin defect was covered with a local flap, the right angulus oris shifted medially, so we incorporated a YV flap at the right angulus oris to modify its position and allow for a cosmetically satisfactory result. We believe that this method can be used not only for cases in which asymmetry of the angulus oris is expected to occur at the time of lip reconstruction, but also for cases in which it has already occurred in the initial operation.
Surface Iron Species in Palladium–Iron Intermetallic Nanocrystals that Promote and Stabilize CO2 Methanation
Authors: Luo Laihao , Wang Menglin , Cui Yi , Chen Ziyuan , Wu Jiaxin , Cao Yulu , Luo Jie , Dai Yizhou , Li Wei‐Xue , Bao Jun , Zeng Jie
Published: April 2020

It is of pivotal importance to develop efficient catalysts and investigate the intrinsic mechanism for CO2 methanation. Now, it is reported that PdFe intermetallic nanocrystals afforded high activity and stability for CO2 methanation. The mass activity of fct‐PdFe nanocrystals reached 5.3 mmol g−1 h−1, under 1 bar (CO2:H2=1:4) at 180 °C, being 6.6, 1.6, 3.3, and 5.3 times as high as that of fcc‐PdFe nanocrystals, Ru/C, Ni/C, and Pd/C, respectively. After 20 rounds of successive reaction, 98 % of the original activity was retained for PdFe intermetallic nanocrystals. Further mechanistic studies revealed that PdFe intermetallic nanocrystals enabled the maintenance of metallic Fe species via a reversible oxidation–reduction process in CO2 methanation. The metallic Fe in PdFe intermetallic nanocrystals induced the direct conversion of CO2 into CO* as the intermediate, contributing to the enhanced activity.
Voraussage absoluter Geschwindigkeitskonstanten von Huisgen‐ Reaktionen ungesättigter Iminium‐Ionen mit Diazoalkanen
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Chen Quan , Mayer Robert J. , Yang Jin‐Dong , Ofial Armin R. , Cheng Jin‐Pei , Mayr Herbert
Published: April 2020

Kinetik und Stereochemie der Reaktionen von aus Zimtaldehyden und MacMillans Imidazolidinonen erzeugten Iminiumionen mit Diphenyldiazomethan und Aryldiazomethanen wurden experimentell und mit Hilfe von DFT‐Rechnungen untersucht. Die Reaktionen von Diphenyldiazomethan mit von MacMillans Katalysatoren der 2. Generation abgeleiteten Iminium‐Ionen ergaben 3‐Aryl‐2,2‐diphenylcyclopropancarbaldehyde in >90 % Ausbeute und Enantiomerenverhältnissen ≥90:10. Überwiegend 2:1‐Produkte erhielt man bei den entsprechenden Reaktionen mit Monoaryldiazomethanen. Die gemessenen Geschwindigkeitskonstanten stehen in Einklang mit den aus den Einzentren‐Nucleophilie‐Parametern N und sN der Diazomethane und den Einzentren‐Elektrophilie‐Parametern E der Iminium‐Ionen berechneten Geschwindigkeitskonstanten sowie mit quantenchemisch berechneten Aktivierungsenergien.
Catalytic Synthesis of 8‐Membered Ring Compounds via Cobalt(III)‐Carbene Radicals
Authors: Zhou Minghui , Lankelma Marianne , van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar , de Bruin Bas
Published: April 2020

The metalloradical activation of o‐aryl aldehydes with tosylhydrazide and a cobalt(II) porphyrin catalyst produces cobalt(III)‐carbene radical intermediates, providing a new and powerful strategy for the synthesis of medium‐sized ring structures. Herein we make use of the intrinsic radical‐type reactivity of cobalt(III)‐carbene radical intermediates in the [CoII(TPP)]‐catalyzed (TPP=tetraphenylporphyrin) synthesis of two types of 8‐membered ring compounds; novel dibenzocyclooctenes and unprecedented monobenzocyclooctadienes. The method was successfully applied to afford a variety of 8‐membered ring compounds in good yields and with excellent substituent tolerance. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental results suggest that the reactions proceed via hydrogen atom transfer from the bis‐allylic/benzallylic C−H bond to the carbene radical, followed by two divergent processes for ring‐closure to the two different types of 8‐membered ring products. While the dibenzocyclooctenes are most likely formed by dissociation of o‐quinodimethanes (o‐QDMs) which undergo a non‐catalyzed 8π‐cyclization, DFT calculations suggest that ring‐closure to the monobenzocyclooctadienes involves a radical‐rebound step in the coordination sphere of cobalt. The latter mechanism implies that unprecedented enantioselective ring‐closure reactions to chiral monobenzocyclooctadienes should be possible, as was confirmed for reactions mediated by a chiral cobalt‐porphyrin catalyst.
Graphdiyne: Bridging SnO2and Perovskite in Planar Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Suicai , Si Haonan , Fan Wenqiang , Shi Mingyue , Li Minghua , Xu Chenzhe , Zhang Zheng , Liao Qingliang , Sattar Abdul , Kang Zhuo , Zhang Yue
Published: April 2020

The matching of charge transport layer and photoactive layer is critical in solar energy conversion devices, especially for planar perovskite solar cells based on the SnO2electron‐transfer layer (ETL) owing to its unmatched photogenerated electron and hole extraction rates. Graphdiyne (GDY) with multi‐roles has been incorporated to maximize the matching between SnO2and perovskite regarding electron extraction rate optimization and interface engineering towards both perovskite crystallization process and subsequent photovoltaic service duration. The GDY doped SnO2layer has fourfold improved electron mobility due to freshly formed C−O σ bond and more facilitated band alignment. The enhanced hydrophobicity inhibits heterogeneous perovskite nucleation, contributing to a high‐quality film with diminished grain boundaries and lower defect density. Also, the interfacial passivation of Pb−I anti‐site defects has been demonstrated via GDY introduction.
USDA Source Water Protection Funding: Successes and Opportunities
Authors: Murphy John D. , Carpenter Adam T.
Published: April 2020

Key Takeaways

Source water protection (SWP) programs funded in the 2018 Farm Bill require highly motivated partners for implementation in priority watersheds.

Three categories of past and current SWP projects are discussed: conservation partnership projects, conservation programs for farmers and ranchers, and forestry programs.

There are several examples of utilities and US Department of Agriculture partnering to implement SWP programs.
Metabolic engineering of E. coli for improving mevalonate production to promote NADPH regeneration and enhance acetyl‐CoA supply
Authors: Satowa Daichi , Fujiwara Ryosuke , Uchio Shogo , Nakano Mariko , Otomo Chisako , Hirata Yuuki , Matsumoto Takuya , Noda Shuhei , Tanaka Tsutomu , Kondo Akihiko
Published: April 2020

Microbial production of mevalonate from renewable feedstock is a promising and sustainable approach for the production of value‐added chemicals. We describe the metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli to enhance mevalonate production from glucose and cellobiose. First, the mevalonate‐producing pathway was introduced into E. coli and the expression of the gene atoB, which encodes the gene for acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase, was increased. Then, the deletion of the pgi gene, which encodes phosphoglucose isomerase, increased the NADPH/NADP+ ratio in the cells but did not improve mevalonate production. Alternatively, to reduce flux toward the tricarboxylic acid cycle, gltA, which encodes citrate synthetase, was disrupted. The resultant strain, MGΔgltA‐MV, increased levels of intracellular acetyl‐CoA up to sevenfold higher than the wild‐type strain. This strain produced 8.0 g/L of mevalonate from 20 g/L of glucose. We also engineered the sugar supply by displaying β‐glucosidase (BGL) on the cell surface. When cellobiose was used as carbon source, the strain lacking gnd displaying BGL efficiently consumed cellobiose and produced mevalonate at 5.7 g/L. The yield of mevalonate was 0.25 g/g glucose (1 g of cellobiose corresponds to 1.1 g of glucose). These results demonstrate the feasibility of producing mevalonate from cellobiose or cellooligosaccharides using an engineered E. coli strain.
Direct High‐Throughput Screening Assay for mRNA Cap Guanine‐N7 Methyltransferase Activity
Authors: Kasprzyk Renata , Fido Mateusz , Mamot Adam , Wanat Przemyslaw , Smietanski Miroslaw , Kopcial Michal , Cowling Victoria H. , Kowalska Joanna , Jemielity Jacek
Published: April 2020

In eukaryotes, mature mRNA is formed through modifications of precursor mRNA, one of which is 5’ cap biosynthesis, involving RNA cap guanine‐N7 methyltransferase (N7‐MTase). N7‐MTases are also encoded by some eukaryotic viruses and facilitate their replication. N7‐MTase inhibitors have therapeutic potential, but their discovery is difficult because long RNA substrates are usually required for activity. Herein, we report a universal N7‐MTase activity assay based on small‐molecule fluorescent probes. We synthesized 12 fluorescent substrate analogues (GpppA and GpppG derivatives) varying in the dye type, dye attachment site, and linker length. GpppA labeled with pyrene at the 3’‐O position of adenosine acted as an artificial substrate with the properties of a turn‐off probe for all three tested N7‐MTases (human, parasite, and viral). Using this compound, a N7‐MTase inhibitor assay adaptable to high‐throughput screening was developed and used to screen synthetic substrate analogues and a commercial library. Several inhibitors with nanomolar activities were identified.
Design of Drug‐Like Protein–Protein Interaction Stabilizers Guided By Chelation‐Controlled Bioactive Conformation Stabilization
Authors: Bosica Francesco , Andrei Sebastian A. , Neves João Filipe , Brandt Peter , Gunnarsson Anders , Landrieu Isabelle , Ottmann Christian , O'Mahony Gavin
Published: April 2020

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) of 14‐3‐3 proteins are a model system for studying PPI stabilization. The complex natural product Fusicoccin A stabilizes many 14‐3‐3 PPIs but is not amenable for use in SAR studies, motivating the search for more drug‐like chemical matter. However, drug‐like 14‐3‐3 PPI stabilizers enabling such studies have remained elusive. An X‐ray crystal structure of a PPI in complex with an extremely low potency stabilizer uncovered an unexpected non‐protein interacting, ligand‐chelated Mg2+ leading to the discovery of metal‐ion‐dependent 14‐3‐3 PPI stabilization potency. This originates from a novel chelation‐controlled bioactive conformation stabilization effect. Metal chelation has been associated with pan‐assay interference compounds (PAINS) and frequent hitter behavior, but chelation can evidently also lead to true potency gains and find use as a medicinal chemistry strategy to guide compound optimization. To demonstrate this, we exploited the effect to design the first potent, selective, and drug‐like 14‐3‐3 PPI stabilizers.
Synthesis of 9‐(6‐Deoxy‐α‐L‐Talofuranosyl)‐6‐Methylpurine and 9‐(6‐Deoxy‐β‐D‐Allofuranosyl)‐6‐Methylpurine Nucleosides
Authors: Hassan Abdalla E. A. , Abou‐Elkhair Reham A. I. , Maaroof Hend M. , Secrist John A.
Published: April 2020

6‐Methylpurine (MeP) is a cytotoxic adenine analog that does not exhibit selectivity when administered systemically and could be very useful in a gene therapy approach to cancer treatment involving Escherichia coli purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). 9‐(6‐Deoxy‐β‐D‐allofuranosyl)‐6‐methylpurine [methyl(allo)‐MePR, 18] and 9‐(6‐deoxy‐α‐L‐talofuranosyl)‐6‐methylpurine [methyl(talo)‐MePR, 21] were synthesized as potential prodrugs for MeP in the E. coli PNP/prodrug cancer gene therapy approach. The detailed syntheses of [methyl(allo)‐MePR] and [methyl(talo)‐MePR] are described. The glycosyl donors, 1,2‐di‐O‐acetyl‐3,5‐di‐O‐benzyl‐α‐D‐allofuranose (12) and 1‐O‐acetyl‐3‐O‐benzyl‐2,5‐di‐O‐benzoyl‐α‐L‐talofuranose (16) were prepared from 1,2:5,6‐di‐O‐isopropylidene‐α‐D‐glucofuranose (4) in nine and eleven steps, respectively. Vorbrüggen coupling of the latter glycosyl donors with 6‐methylpurine (3), followed by deprotection of the sugar hydroxyl groups, gave the title compounds in good overall yields. © 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of 6‐methylpurine

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of the D‐allofuranose derivative (12)

Basic Protocol 3: Preparation of 6‐deoxy‐α‐L‐talofuranoside

Basic Protocol 4: Preparation of methyl(allo)‐MePR (18)

Basic Protocol 5: Preparation of methyl(talo)‐MePR (21)
Genomic prediction for resistance to Fusarium ear rot and fumonisin contamination in maize
Authors: Holland James B. , Marino Thiago P. , Manching Heather C. , Wisser Randall J.
Published: April 2020

Fusarium ear rot (FER) disease of maize (Zea mays L.) is caused by Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg, which produces fumonisin (FUM), a mycotoxin linked to human and animal health risks. Extensive field trials, laborious inoculations and ear evaluations, and expensive antibody assays are required to reliably assess resistances to FER and FUM contamination in breeding populations. To evaluate the potential utility of genomic selection (GS) to improve FER and FUM in maize, we genotyped 6086 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on 449 S0:1 lines from a recurrent selection population. Two different partitions of the S0:1 evaluation data were made to test the ability of models trained on 251 or 201 lines evaluated at three locations in 2014–2015 to predict FER and FUM of 198 or 248 different lines evaluated at three locations in 2016. Single‐stage univariate and multivariate genomic best linear unbiased predictor (GBLUP) models and two‐stage GBLUP, Bayes Cπ, Bayesian LASSO, and extreme gradient boosting models were compared for prediction. Maximum prediction accuracy for untested lines in a new year was 0.46 for FER and 0.67 for FUM. Bayesian models optimized for predicting traits influenced by major‐effect loci were best for FUM in one set, despite no evidence for significant individual SNP–trait associations from genome‐wide association study (GWAS) in the training sets; otherwise, GBLUP models were best. These results suggest that GS can help improve resistance to FER and FUM contamination in an applied breeding program.
Macrophage Metabolomics Reveals Differential Metabolic Responses to Subtoxic Levels of Silver Nanoparticles and Ionic Silver
Authors: Carrola Joana , Bastos Verónica , Daniel‐da‐Silva Ana L. , Gil Ana M. , Santos Conceição , Oliveira Helena , Duarte Iola F.
Published: April 2020

This study employed NMR metabolomics to characterize macrophage responses to subtoxic concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs ca. 30 nm) and ionic silver (Ag+), with a view to further elucidate their immunomodulatory activity at the cell metabolism level. Exposure to AgNPs caused RAW 264.7 macrophages to decrease intracellular glucose utilization, possibly due to interference with glycolytic enzymes, and to reprogram the TCA cycle towards anaplerotic fueling and production of anti‐inflammatory metabolites (e.g. itaconate and creatine). Moreover, AgNPs‐exposed cells were able to control the levels of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), likely through upregulation of glutathione synthesis. On the other hand, macrophages exposed to Ag+ at equivalent subtoxic concentrations showed reduced metabolic activity, lower ability to counterbalance ROS/RNS and alterations in membrane‐related lipids. Overall, the metabolomics approach hereby employed provided novel insights into the differential effects of AgNPs and Ag+, which help explain the lower toxic potential of nanosilver than silver ions.
Effect of “X” Ligands on the Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to CO with Re(pyridylNHC‐CF3)(CO)3X Complexes
Authors: Shirley Hunter , Sexton Thomas More , Liyanage Nalaka P. , Palmer C. Zachary , McNamara Louis E. , Hammer Nathan I. , Tschumper Gregory S. , Delcamp Jared H.
Published: April 2020

A series of five Re(pyNHC‐aryl)(CO)3X complexes varying the “X” ligand where pyNHC is a pyridyl N‐heterocyclic carbene have been synthesized and characterized through NMR, UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy, IR, mass spectrometry, time‐correlated single photon counting, computational analysis, and cyclic voltammetry. The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor with these complexes is evaluated using a simulated solar spectrum (AM 1.5G). Comparison of Br and CH3CN as the “X” ligand shows the same photocatalytic activity (both 32 TON). The use of Cl, NCS and P(OEt)3 “X” ligands all led to diminished reactivity with as little as 2 TON for the P(OEt)3 complex. These results were rationalized through computational analysis of “X” dissociation and excited‐state lifetime measurements. These results highlight the importance of the “X” ligand selection on catalysis with Re‐pyNHC complexes.
Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Thioglycals from Carbohydrate‐Derived Ketene Dithioacetals
Authors: Merieux Guillaume , Buchotte Marie , Muzard Murielle , Plantier‐Royon Richard
Published: April 2020

A novel strategy for the synthesis of 2‐substituted thioglycals has been developed from a carbohydrate‐derived ketene dithioacetal in a two‐step sequence. The introduction of various electrophilic groups at the double bond of the ketene dithioacetal was achieved before the elimination of the thioalkyl group to yield 2‐substituted thioglycals. Removal of the exocyclic thioalkyl group was obtained by the selective formation of the exocyclic glycosyl sulfoxide followed by treatment by an organolithium reagent. The synthetic potential of these 2‐substituted thioglycals was illustrated by the alkylation at the sulfur atom leading to unsaturated carbohydrate‐derived sulfonium salts.
Tocilizumab treatment in COVID‐19: A single center experience
Authors: Luo Pan , Liu Yi , Qiu Lin , Liu Xiulan , Liu Dong , Li Juan
Published: April 2020

Tocilizumab (TCZ), a monoclonal antibody against interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), emerged as an alternative treatment for COVID‐19 patients with a risk of cytokine storms recently. In the present study, we aimed to discuss the treatment response of TCZ therapy in COVID‐19 infected patients. The demographic, treatment, laboratory parameters of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and IL‐6 before and after TCZ therapy and clinical outcome in the 15 COVID‐19 patients were retrospectively assessed. Totally 15 patients with COVID‐19 were included in this study. Two of them were moderately ill, six were seriously ill and seven were critically ill. The TCZ was used in combination with methylprednisolone in eight patients. Five patients received the TCZ administration twice or more. Although TCZ treatment ameliorated the increased CRP in all patients rapidly, for the four critically ill patients who received an only single dose of TCZ, three of them (No. 1, 2, and 3) still dead and the CRP level in the rest one patient (No. 7) failed to return to normal range with a clinical outcome of disease aggravation. Serum IL‐6 level tended to further spiked firstly and then decreased after TCZ therapy in 10 patients. A persistent and dramatic increase of IL‐6 was observed in these four patients who failed treatment. TCZ appears to be an effective treatment option in COVID‐19 patients with a risk of cytokine storms. And for these critically ill patients with elevated IL‐6, the repeated dose of the TCZ is recommended.
Optical Coherence Tomography in the Evaluation of the Scalp and Hair: Common Features and Clinical Utility
Authors: Ekelem Chloe , Feil Nate , Csuka Ella , Juhasz Margit , Lin Jessica , Choi Franchesca , Asghari Arya , Heydarlou Dorsa , Mesinkovska Natasha A.
Published: April 2020

Background and Objective

Early diagnosis and treatment of hair loss disorders is vital in providing patients with improved psychological outcomes. Non‐invasive imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT) may be useful in characterizing and managing alopecia. Despite expanding clinical applications of OCT in dermatology, guidelines demonstrating in vivo features of normal and alopecic scalp images remain scant. This pilot study aims to provide an atlas of OCT findings of healthy and alopecia subjects, explore diagnostic quantitative endpoints of alopecia, and compare epidermal thickness and follicular density between scalp regions.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A total of 32 patients (19–76 years old) were enrolled in the study, including healthy patients (n = 6), and patients with scarring alopecia (n = 12) or non‐scarring alopecia (n = 14). An in‐line fiber‐based swept source OCT was used to image five scalp locations at baseline and 6‐month visits. Three investigators evaluated each image for gross features, epidermal thickness, and follicular density.

Results

Only data from baseline imaging analysis is discussed in this manuscript. Qualitative differences of OCT images are identified in sample images from healthy scalp and each subtype of alopecia studied. Scarring alopecia is characterized by significantly increased epidermal thickness (average Image J pixel units 32 ± 2 compared with non‐scarring alopecia [average 28 ± 3] and control [average 27 ± 3]) (P = 0.022) and decreased follicle count (average 35 ± 5 in a 5 × 7 mm2 area compared with control (50 ± 3) and non‐scarring patients (47 ± 6)) (P = 0.0052). Scalp location had no impact on epidermal thickness (P = 0.861) or follicular density (P = 0.15).

Conclusion

OCT holds promise as a non‐invasive technique to further characterize and objectively measure alopecia. Larger sample sizes and longitudinal data are needed to improve reliability and determine if additional distinction between alopecia subtypes and treatment monitoring is possible. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Review of Emerging Pharmacotherapy for the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Barlow Ashley , Landolf Kaitlin M. , Barlow Brooke , Yeung Siu Yan Amy , Heavner Jason J. , Claassen Cassidy W. , Heavner Mojdeh S.
Published: April 2020

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has evolved into an emergent global pandemic. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can manifest on a spectrum of illness from mild disease to severe respiratory failure requiring intensive care unit admission. As the incidence continues to rise at a rapid pace, critical care teams are faced with challenging treatment decisions. There is currently no widely accepted standard of care in the pharmacologic management of patients with COVID‐19. Urgent identification of potential treatment strategies is a priority. Therapies include novel agents available in clinical trials or through compassionate use, and other drugs, repurposed antiviral and immunomodulating therapies. Many have demonstrated in vitro or in vivo potential against other viruses that are similar to SARS‐CoV‐2. Critically ill patients with COVID‐19 have additional considerations related to adjustments for organ impairment and renal replacement therapies, complex lists of concurrent medications, limitations with drug administration and compatibility, and unique toxicities that should be evaluated when utilizing these therapies. The purpose of this review is to summarize practical considerations for pharmacotherapy in patients with COVID‐19, with the intent of serving as a resource for health care providers at the forefront of clinical care during this pandemic.
Blue High‐Power Laser Diodes ‐‐ Beam Sources for Novel Applications
Authors: Behringer Martin , König Harald
Published: April 2020

High‐power diode lasers are possibly the most efficient way of making electrical energy usable for material processing, like welding, cutting, soldering or other high‐power applications. While IR laser were invented over fifty years ago and have been used in industry for more than two decades, GaN high‐power lasers have only recently been used for material processing, especially for welding and soldering of copper. Although the blue wavelength offers unique and undisputable advantages over IR for the latter application, some difficulties still had to be overcome. Here is an overview of the development steps of GaN lasers from their commercial beginnings as a 1 mW light source in Blue‐ray players to today's 1.5 kW system. Also, important investigations to reach power efficiencies of 40 % will be explained as well as considerations to reach lifetimes of 65 khr and longer. We also venture a prediction of future developments based on a comparison to IR laser diodes.
Novel coronavirus infection in children outside of Wuhan, China
Authors: Shen Qinxue , Guo Wei , Guo Ting , Li Jinhua , He Wenlong , Ni Shanshan , Ouyang Xiaoli , Liu Jiyang , Xie Yuanlin , Tan Xin , Zhou Zhiguo , Peng Hong
Published: April 2020

Background

Since December 8, 2019, an epidemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has spread rapidly, but information about children with COVID‐19 is limited.

Methods

This retrospective and the single‐center study were done at the Public Health Clinic Center of Changsha, Hunan, China. We identified all hospitalized children diagnosed with COVID‐19 between January 8, 2019 and February 19, 2020, in Changsha. Epidemiological and clinical data of these children were collected and analyzed. Outcomes were followed until February 26th, 2020.

Results

By February 19, 2020, nine pediatric patients were identified as having 2019‐nCoV infection in Changsha. Six children had a family exposure and could provide the exact dates of close contact with someone who was confirmed to have 2019‐nCoV infection, among whom the median incubation period was 7.5 days. The initial symptoms of the nine children were mild, including fever (3/9), diarrhea (2/9), cough (1/9), and sore throat (1/9), two had no symptoms. Two of the enrolled patients showed small ground‐glass opacity of chest computed tomography scan. As of February 26, six patients had a negative RT‐PCR for 2019‐nCoV and were discharged. The median time from exposure to a negative RT‐PCR was 14 days.

Conclusions

The clinical symptoms of the new coronavirus infection in children were not typical and showed a less aggressive clinical course than teenage and adult patients. Children who have a familial clustering or have a family member with a definite diagnosis should be reported to ensure a timely diagnosis.
Courant Sigma Model and ‐algebras
Authors: Grewcoe Clay James , Jonke Larisa
Published: April 2020

The Courant sigma model is a 3‐dimensional topological sigma model of AKSZ type which has been used for the systematic description of closed strings in non‐geometric flux backgrounds. In particular, the expression for the fluxes and their Bianchi identities coincide with the local form of the axioms of a Courant algebroid. On the other hand, the axioms of a Courant algebroid also coincide with the conditions for gauge invariance of the Courant sigma model. In this paper we embed this interplay between background fluxes of closed strings, gauge (or more precisely BRST) symmetries of the Courant sigma model and axioms of a Courant algebroid into an ‐algebra structure. We show how the complete BV‐BRST formulation of the Courant sigma model is described in terms of ‐algebras. Moreover, the morphism between the ‐algebra for a Courant algebroid and the one for the corresponding sigma model is constructed.
Gravity-mediated dark matter in clockwork/linear dilaton extra-dimensions
Authors: Folgado Miguel G. , Donini Andrea , Rius Nuria
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We study for the first time the possibility that Dark Matter (represented by particles with spin 0, 1/2 or 1) interacts gravitationally with Standard Model particles in an extra-dimensional Clockwork/Linear Dilaton model. We assume that both, the Dark Matter and the Standard Model, are localized in the IR-brane and only interact via gravitational mediators, namely the Kaluza-Klein (KK) graviton and the radion/KK-dilaton modes. We analyse in detail the Dark Matter annihilation channel into Standard Model particles and into two on-shell Kaluza-Klein towers (either two KK-gravitons, or two radion/KK- dilatons, or one of each), finding that it is possible to obtain the observed relic abundance via thermal freeze-out for Dark Matter masses in the range m
DM ∈ [1, 15] TeV for a 5- dimensional gravitational scale M
5 ranging from 5 to a few hundreds of TeV, even after taking into account the bounds from LHC Run II and irrespectively of the DM particle spin.
Abelian Chern-Simons vortices at finite chemical potential
Authors: Kumar S. Prem , Stratiev Stanislav
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We examine vortices in Abelian Chern-Simons theory coupled to a relativistic scalar field with a chemical potential for particle number or U(1) charge. The Gauss constraint requires chemical potential for the local symmetry to be accompanied by a constant background charge density/magnetic field. Focussing attention on power law scalar potentials ∼ |Φ|2s
which do not support vortex configurations in vacuum but do so at finite chemical potential, we numerically study classical vortex solutions for large winding number |n| ≫ 1. The solutions depending on a single dimensionless parameter α, behave as uniform incompressible droplets with radius

$$ \sim \sqrt{\alpha \left|n\right|} $$

∼

α

n

, and energy scaling linearly with |n|, independent of coupling constant. In all cases, the vortices transition from type I to type II at a critical value of the dimensionless parameter,

$$ {\alpha}_c=\frac{s}{s-1} $$

α
c

=

s

s
−
1

, which we confirm with analytical arguments and numerical methods.
A Continuum of Evolving De Novo Genes Drives Protein-Coding Novelty in Drosophila
Authors: Heames Brennen , Schmitz Jonathan , Bornberg-Bauer Erich
Published: April 2020

Orphan genes, lacking detectable homologs in outgroup species, typically represent 10–30% of eukaryotic genomes. Efforts to find the source of these young genes indicate that de novo emergence from non-coding DNA may in part explain their prevalence. Here, we investigate the roots of orphan gene emergence in the Drosophila genus. Across the annotated proteomes of twelve species, we find 6297 orphan genes within 4953 taxon-specific clusters of orthologs. By inferring the ancestral DNA as non-coding for between 550 and 2467 (8.7–39.2%) of these genes, we describe for the first time how de novo emergence contributes to the abundance of clade-specific Drosophila genes. In support of them having functional roles, we show that de novo genes have robust expression and translational support. However, the distinct nucleotide sequences of de novo genes, which have characteristics intermediate between intergenic regions and conserved genes, reflect their recent birth from non-coding DNA. We find that de novo genes encode more disordered proteins than both older genes and intergenic regions. Together, our results suggest that gene emergence from non-coding DNA provides an abundant source of material for the evolution of new proteins. Following gene birth, gradual evolution over large evolutionary timescales moulds sequence properties towards those of conserved genes, resulting in a continuum of properties whose starting points depend on the nucleotide sequences of an initial pool of novel genes.
Log expansions from combinatorial Dyson–Schwinger equations
Authors: Krüger Olaf
Published: April 2020

We give a precise connection between combinatorial Dyson–Schwinger equations and log expansions for Green’s functions in quantum field theory. The latter are triangular power series in the coupling constant $$\alpha $$
α
and a logarithmic energy scale L—a reordering of terms as $$G(\alpha ,L) = 1 \pm \sum _{j \ge 0} \alpha ^j H_j(\alpha L)$$

G

(
α
,
L
)

=
1
±

∑

j
≥
0

α
j

H
j

(
α
L
)

is the corresponding log expansion. In a first part of this paper, we derive the leading log order $$H_0$$

H
0

and the next-to$$^{(j)}$$

(
j
)

-leading log orders $$H_j$$

H
j

from the Callan–Symanzik equation. In particular, $$H_j$$

H
j

only depends on the $$(j+1)$$

(
j
+
1
)

-loop $$\beta $$
β
-function and anomalous dimensions. In two specific examples, our formulas reproduce the known expressions for the next-to-next-to-leading log approximation in the literature: for the photon propagator Green’s function in quantum electrodynamics and in a toy model, where all Feynman graphs with vertex sub-divergences are neglected. In a second part of this work, we review the connection between the Callan–Symanzik equation and Dyson–Schwinger equations, i.e., fixed-point relations for the Green’s functions. Combining the arguments, our work provides a derivation of the log expansions for Green’s functions from the corresponding Dyson–Schwinger equations.
Cognition-Oriented Treatments for Older Adults: a Systematic Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Gavelin Hanna Malmberg , Lampit Amit , Hallock Harry , Sabatés Julieta , Bahar-Fuchs Alex
Published: April 2020

Cognition-oriented treatments – commonly categorized as cognitive training, cognitive rehabilitation and cognitive stimulation – are promising approaches for the prevention of cognitive and functional decline in older adults. We conducted a systematic overview of meta-analyses investigating the efficacy of cognition-oriented treatments on cognitive and non-cognitive outcomes in older adults with or without cognitive impairment. Review quality was assessed by A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR). We identified 51 eligible reviews, 46 of which were included in the quantitative synthesis. The confidence ratings were “moderate” for 9 (20%), “low” for 13 (28%) and “critically low” for 24 (52%) of the 46 reviews. While most reviews provided pooled effect estimates for objective cognition, non-cognitive outcomes of potential relevance were more sparsely reported. The mean effect estimate on cognition was small for cognitive training in healthy older adults (mean Hedges’ g = 0.32, range 0.13–0.64, 19 reviews), mild cognitive impairment (mean Hedges’ g = 0.40, range 0.32–0.60, five reviews), and dementia (mean Hedges’ g = 0.38, range 0.09–1.16, seven reviews), and small for cognitive stimulation in dementia (mean Hedges’ g = 0.36, range 0.26–0.44, five reviews). Meta-regression revealed that higher AMSTAR score was associated with larger effect estimates for cognitive outcomes. The available evidence supports the efficacy of cognition-oriented treatments improving cognitive performance in older adults. The extent to which such effects are of clinical value remains unclear, due to the scarcity of high-quality evidence and heterogeneity in reported findings. An important avenue for future trials is to include relevant non-cognitive outcomes in a more consistent way and, for meta-analyses in the field, there is a need for better adherence to methodological standards. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018084490.
Experimental Investigation on the Friction and Wear Characteristics of Palm Seed Powder Reinforced Brake Pad Friction Composites
Authors: Jeganmohan Sudhanraj , Sugozu Banu , Kumar Mukesh , Selvam David Raja
Published: April 2020

In this research work, palm seed power (0–9 wt%, step of 3%; four composites sample, namely P0, P3. P6, P9) were used to reinforce master batch of friction composite materials containing phenolic resin binder, steel swarf fibre, cashew, alumina, graphite, copper and zinc. The fabrications were as per standard industrial practice via hot compression moulding route. Thereafter, samples were cut and characterized for their tribological characteristics on specifically designed braking dynamometer using grey cast iron disc as per TS 555 and TS 9076 standards. Physical and mechanical properties such as hardness and density of the samples were also determined. Further, multi-criteria-decision-making like Preference Selection Index methods are used to ascertain ranking of material alternatives based on performance criteria. Both the subjective analysis and PSI output are in agreement with each other. Hence, such techniques often found suitable for decision-making or ranking of materials alternatives when performance criteria are of conflicting in nature.
Emission modelling of hydrodynamic AGN jet simulations
Authors: van der Westhuizen Izak P. , van Soelen Brian , Meintjes Petrus J.
Published: April 2020

Radio-loud Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) produce relativistic jets that can be modelled with relativistic hydrodynamic (RHD) simulations. In this study we present two such simulations of jets, used to investigate the parameters required to reproduce structures consistent with both FR I and FRII jets. In the first simulation a Lorentz factor of 10 and supersonic flow of Mach 30 were chosen, while for the second simulation a Lorentz factor of 1.0014 with a supersonic flow of Mach 4 was used. Over similar distances scales the first case shows a well collimated beam with a strong shock at the interface between the jet and ambient medium while the second case shows a less stable beam and a larger cocoon. To determine whether the simulated physical structures are consistent with the observed FR I/II jets, the synchrotron emission has been calculated to produce radio maps at a single frequency of 1.5 GHz.
Copper-catalyzed [2+3]-annulation of N–H imines with vinyl azides: access to polyaryl 2H-imidazoles
Authors: Zhu Zhongzhi , Lin Hanze , Liang Baihui , Huang Junjie , Liang Wanyi , Chen Lu , Huang Yubing , Chen Xiuwen , Li Yibiao
Published: April 2020

A copper-catalyzed [2+3] annulation of N–H imines with vinyl azides to generate polyaryl 2H-imidazoles with N2 and H2O as the only by-products has been developed.
Anisotropic hydrogen bond structures and orientation dependence of shock sensitivity in crystalline 1,3,5-tri-amino-2,4,6-tri-nitrobenzene (TATB)
Authors: Huang Xiaona , Guo Feng , Yao Kuiguang , Lu Zhipeng , Ma Yu , Wen Yushi , Dai Xiaogan , Li Ming , Long Xinping
Published: April 2020

Anisotropic shock sensitivity in TATB is interpreted from its anisotropic structure and physicochemical responses during shock loading.
Synthesis of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds by carbonylation reactions
Authors: Zhang Shaoke , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: April 2020

Carbonylation reactions represent one of the most important tool box for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds which are key building blocks in organic chemistry. This paper summarizes the most important advances in this field.
Ionophore-based pH independent detection of ions utilizing aggregation-induced effects
Authors: Wang Renjie , Du Xinfeng , Ma Xueqing , Zhai Jingying , Xie Xiaojiang
Published: April 2020

Here, aggregation-induced emission and quenching were incorporated for the first time in ionophore-based optical nanosensors.
Understanding the nature of quinoidal and zwitterionic states in carbazole-based diradicals
Authors: Xue Guodong , Hu Xiaoguang , Chen Hanjiao , Ge Lingbing , Wang Wenxiang , Xiong Jingyuan , Miao Fang , Zheng Yonghao
Published: April 2020

Systematic studies of quinoidal and zwitterionic resonance patterns in diradicals.
Superior thermally robust energetic materials featuring Z–E isomeric bis(3,4-diamino-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl)-1H-pyrazole: self-assembly nitrogen-rich tubes and templates with Hofmeister anion capture architecture
Authors: Geng Wenjing , Jia Yunfei , Chen Ya , Ma Qing , Fan Guijuan , Liao Longyu
Published: April 2020

A super thermally robust nitrogen-rich framework was synthesized, and Z → E isomerization as well as supramolecular assembly inclusion strategy gave rise to two different nitrogen-rich tubes and templates with Hofmeister anions capture architecture.
Intrinsically porous molecular building blocks for metal organic frameworks tailored by the bridging effect of counter cations
Authors: Yang Peng , Alshankiti Buthainah , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: April 2020

Intrinsically porous molecular building blocks are used for the rational design and construction of molecular-level controlled porous materials.
Principal interacting spin orbital: understanding the fragment interactions in open-shell systems
Authors: Sheong Fu Kit , Zhang Jing-Xuan , Lin Zhenyang
Published: April 2020

PISO analysis we presented in this work can clearly picture and quantify the interaction between fragments of open shell species, and nicely complements the PIO analysis framework we have developed previously for understanding chemical interactions.
Two-dimensional few-layered PC3 as a promising photocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Yao Hui , Wang Qiang , Li Jianwei , Cai Weishan , Wei Yadong , Wang Bin , Wang Jian
Published: April 2020

A schematic structure and strain related photocatalytic properties at different pH values for the AA pattern of bilayered PC3.
Use of Imitation Training for Targeting Grammar: A Narrative Review
Authors: Eisenberg Sarita L. , Bredin-Oja Shelley L. , Crumrine Kasey
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this narrative review was to examine the evidence for imitation training for targeting grammar in children with developmental language disorder.

Method

Studies investigating imitation training were compiled from two databases—PsycINFO and Linguistics and Language Behavior Abstracts—as well as from reference lists of several books and articles reviewing language therapy.

Results

Twenty-one studies were reviewed. We summarized the demographic and methodological characteristics of the included studies. We identified substantial differences in the implementation of imitation training across the studies and noted a lack of studies considering how those differences might affect therapy outcome. Studies showed a rapid increase in the production of grammatical targets during imitation training activities, higher performance relative to a control group that did not receive any therapy, and generalization to untrained exemplars. However, the studies did not unequivocally link the increased performance to the imitation training therapy. Studies also showed limited generalization to conversational speech. Conversationally based therapy resulted in faster or higher usage in conversational speech, while imitation training resulted in faster immediate gains in usage during therapy trials.

Conclusion

We believe that imitation training can continue to be a useful tool in a speech-language pathologist's toolbox, but with suggested modifications. Specifically, we suggest use of imitation training as a means for rapidly achieving production of previously absent grammatical targets. However, we do not recommend sole or long-term use of imitation training for working on grammar. Further research is needed to refine our use of the procedure.
Comparing Subsurface Energy Storage Systems: Underground Pumped Storage Hydropower, Compressed Air Energy Storage and Suspended Weight Gravity Energy Storage
Authors: Menéndez Javier , Schmidt Falko , Loredo Jorge
Published: April 2020

In the current energy context, intermittent and non-dispatchable renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar photovoltaic (generation does not necessarily correspond to demand), require flexible solutions to store energy. Energy storage systems (ESS) are able to balance the intermittent and volatile generation outputs of variable renewable energies (VRE). ESS provide ancillary services such as: frequency, primary and voltage control to the power grid. In order to fulfil the power system control, ESS can switch within seconds for different operation modes. Many times, ESS imply environment impacts on landscape and society. To solve this problem, disused underground spaces, such as closed mines, can be used as underground reservoir for energy storage plants. In this paper, a comparative analysis between underground pumped storage hydropower (UPSH), compressed air energy storage (CAES) and suspended weight gravity energy storage (SWGES) with suspended weights in abandoned mine shafts is carried out. Pumped storage hydropower (PSH) is the most mature concept and account for 99% of bulk storage capacity worldwide. The results obtained show that in UPSH and CAES plants, the amount of stored energy depends mainly on the underground reservoir capacity, while in SWGES plants depends on the depth of the mine shafts and the mass. The energy stored in a SWGES plant (3.81 MWh cycle-1 with 600 m of usable depth assuming 3,000 tonne suspended weight) is much lower than UPSH and CAES plants.
Experimental and Numerical Studies of a Recuperator in Micro Turbines
Authors: Shi Xusheng , Wang Yongwei , Huai Xiulan
Published: April 2020

In this paper, a recuperator model is established to simulate the real working state of the recuperator in the micro turbine. The relative error between simulated and experimental data doesn't exceed 5%, which indicates that the model can better reflect the changing law of the recuperator performance. Therefore, the recuperator model proposed in this paper is reasonable and reliable. In addition, the simulation results indicate that heat transfer efficiency is not sensitive to the change of hot inlet temperature, however, it increases with the decrease of mass flow rate. On the other hand, the decrease of inlet mass flow leads to the relative pressure loss decreased on hot and cold sides.