bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis of redox modulation on chloroplast ATP synthase
Authors: Yang Jay-How , Williams Dewight , Kandiah Eaazhisai , Fromme Petra , Chiu Po-Lin
Published: September 2020

In higher plants, chloroplast ATP synthase has a unique redox switch on its γ subunit that modulates enzyme activity to limit ATP hydrolysis at night. To understand the molecular details of the redox modulation, we used single-particle cryo-EM to determine the structures of spinach chloroplast ATP synthase in both reduced and oxidized states. The disulfide linkage of the oxidized γ subunit introduces a torsional constraint to stabilize the two β hairpin structures. Once reduced, free cysteines alleviate this constraint, resulting in a concerted motion of the enzyme complex and a smooth transition between rotary states to facilitate the ATP synthesis. We added an uncompetitive inhibitor, tentoxin, in the reduced sample to limit the flexibility of the enzyme and obtained high-resolution details. Our cryo-EM structures provide mechanistic insight into the redox modulation of the energy regulation activity of chloroplast ATP synthase.
Native detection of protein O-GlcNAcylation by gel electrophoresis
Authors: Fu Chuan , van Aalten Daan M. F.
Published: September 2020

O-GlcNAcylated proteins are spatially separated by a novel gel (SOPAGE), enabling the measurement of O-GlcNAc stoichiometry and dynamics.
Peptide nanotubes self-assembled from leucine-rich alpha helical surfactant-like peptides
Authors: Castelletto Valeria , Seitsonen Jani , Ruokolainen Janne , Piras Cristian , Cramer Rainer , Edwards-Gayle Charlotte J. C. , Hamley Ian W.
Published: September 2020

The designed arginine-rich surfactant-like peptide R3L12 (arginine3–leucine12) is shown to form diversity of self-assembled nanostructures in aqueous solution, depending on pH, including nanotubes, tubular networks in 3D and square planar arrays in 2D.
Exploiting arginine distributions for the selective and efficient depletion of arginine-rich plasma proteins
Authors: Hu Xue , Wang Jian-Hua , Chen Xu-Wei
Published: September 2020

The distribution of arginine residues in protein chains provides a new basis for the efficient capturing of arginine-rich proteins from complex matrices.
p-Synephrine enantiomers: binary phase diagram, crystal structure and kinetic stability of a metastable conglomerate monitored by nonlinear optics
Authors: Ianno Veronica , Clevers Simon , Négrier Philippe , Dupray Valérie , Coquerel Gérard , Espeau Philippe
Published: September 2020

Crystal structure and kinetic stability of a conglomerateversusthe racemic compound ofp-synephrine.
Influence of modifier cations on the local environment of aluminum in La2O3–Al2O3 and Y2O3–Al2O3 binary glasses
Authors: Watanabe Yasuhiro , Masuno Atsunobu , Inoue Hiroyuki , Yanaba Yutaka , Kato Katsuyoshi
Published: September 2020

In aluminate glasses, the oxygen coordination number around Al depends mainly on packing density.
Construction and optoelectronic applications of organic core/shell micro/nanostructures
Authors: Zhuo Ming-Peng , Wang Xue-Dong , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: September 2020

This review summarizes recent advances in organic core–shell structures from the aspects of fabrication methods and optoelectronic applications, providing inspiration for the rational design of organic core–shell structures with desired performance.
Selenoprotein Gpx3 knockdown induces myocardial damage through Ca2+ leaks in chickens
Authors: Gong Yafan , Yang Jie , Cai Jingzeng , Liu Qi , Zhang Ziwei
Published: September 2020

Glutathione peroxidase 3 (Gpx3) is a pivotal selenoprotein that acts as an antioxidant. However, the role of Gpx3 in maintaining the normal metabolism of cardiomyocytes remains to be elucidated in more detail. Herein, we employed a model of Gpx3 interference in chicken embryos in vivo and Gpx3 knockdown chicken cardiomyocytes in vitro. Real-time PCR, western blotting and fluorescent staining were performed to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS), the calcium (Ca2+) concentration, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, myocardial contraction, inflammation and heat shock proteins (HSPs). Our results revealed that Gpx3 suppression increased the level of ROS, which induced Ca2+ leakage in the cytoplasm by blocking the expression of Ca2+ channels. The imbalance of Ca2+ homeostasis triggered ER stress and blocked myocardial contraction. Furthermore, we found that Ca2+ imbalance in the cytoplasm induced severe inflammation, and HSPs might play a protective role throughout these processes. In conclusion, Gpx3 suppression induces myocardial damage through the activation of Ca2+-dependent ER stress.
Photochemical reduction of Cr(vi) compounds by amino acid Schiff base copper complexes with a hydroxyl group and titanium oxide composites in aqueous solutions
Authors: Miyagawa Yoshito , Tsatsuryan Arshak , Haraguchi Tomoyuki , Shcherbakov Igor , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: September 2020

The photo-driven reduction reaction of Cr(vi) to Cr(iii) by Schiff base Cu(ii) complexes was studied in aqueous and methanol solutions. The Cr(vi) reduction ratio with the CuVDB–TiO2 system reached 91%.
Synthesis of an amphibious superamphiphilic carbon-based materials with unique properties
Authors: Liu Xin , Guo Fengjuan , Dong Yaping , Li Wu
Published: September 2020

The synthesis of carbon cloth and polyurethane foam possessing amphibious superamphiphilicity (i.e., superamphiphilicity simultaneously in air and in pre-wetted state).
Morphology, structure and cytotoxicity of dye-loaded lipid nanoparticles based on monoamine pillar[5]arenes
Authors: Yakimova L. S. , Guralnik E. G. , Shurpik D. N. , Evtugyn V. G. , Osin Y. N. , Subakaeva E. V. , Sokolova E. A. , Zelenikhin P. V. , Stoikov I. I.
Published: September 2020

New synthesized pillar[5]arenes form solid lipid nanoparticles with fluorescent dyes that have a distinctive morphology and low toxicity to A549 cells.
Orientational order in dense suspensions of elliptical particles in the non-Stokesian regime
Authors: Tegze György , Podmaniczky Frigyes , Somfai Ellák , Börzsönyi Tamás , Gránásy László
Published: September 2020

Suspensions of neutrally buoyant elliptic particles are modeled in 2D using fully resolved simulations that provide two-way interaction between the particle and the fluid medium.
A minireview of viscosity-sensitive fluorescent probes: design and biological applications
Authors: Ma Chenggong , Sun Wen , Xu Limin , Qian Ying , Dai Jianan , Zhong Guoyan , Hou Yadan , Liu Jialong , Shen Baoxing
Published: September 2020

Microenvironment-related parameters like viscosity, polarity, and pH play important roles in controlling the physical or chemical behaviors of local molecules, which determine the physical or chemical behaviors of surrounding molecules.
Siamese hyperspectral target detection using synthetic training data
Authors: Kim J.‐H. , Kim J. , Joung J.
Published: September 2020

This Letter presents a method for training convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that detect targets of interest in hyperspectral images. Collecting suitable and abundant training data has been the main obstacle to the successful application of CNNs to hyperspectral target detection. To solve the problem, the authors propose a scheme to generate synthetic training data. Publicly available spectral reflectance library and an easy‐to‐obtain radiative transfer model are utilised in their scheme. Using the synthetic training data only, a Siamese CNN is trained to learn robust features for the detection task. Experimental results on the real hyperspectral image show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Transient stability analysis and stability margin evaluation of phase‐locked loop synchronised converter‐based generators
Authors: Wang Wenzong , Huang Garng M. , Ramasubramanian Deepak , Farantatos Evangelos
Published: September 2020

As the penetration level of converter‐based generators (CBGs) continues to grow in electric power systems, their impact on power system dynamics and control becomes increasingly significant. Maintaining a stable operation of the CBGs is becoming more and more critical. Since their controls and dynamic behaviour differ from synchronous generators, in this study, the transient stability mechanism of CBGs is analysed and the key influencing factors are identified and investigated. Moreover, a stability margin index, which can be obtained analytically, is proposed to identify potential transient stability issues of CBGs and can be used as a screening technique before conducting time‐consuming electromagnetic simulation studies. This index can be used for both planning and operations studies and it outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art index of short circuit ratio that is presently used to identify potential CBG instabilities due to weak grid scenarios. Dynamic simulations on a real power system model have been conducted to validate the accuracy and applicability of the proposed stability margin index.
Synthesis of open structures starting from closed‐cross‐section waveguide devices
Authors: Torrisi Giuseppe , Leonardi Ornella , Mauro Giorgio Sebastiano , Celona Luigi , Sorbello Gino
Published: September 2020

This study presents a new methodology, based on the field modal expansion theory, to derive and analyse millimetre wave (mm‐wave) ‘open’ cross‐sections structures starting from standard closed cross‐section design. The method is of great interest since W‐band open devices offer many advantages over traditional closed structures in terms of risks for manufacturing, tuning and power handling in critical high‐power devices. A hybrid scalar product, or ‘overlap’ integral, between the ‘open’ and ‘closed’ orthogonal basis of the open structure and the reference closed one has been defined, so introducing a figure of merit to evaluate if the derived open structure can have the same performances of the closed one in terms of fields confinement and distribution. As an example of the methodology, an ‘open’ version of a Gaussian horn and of a rectangular‐to‐circular WR10 waveguide transition have been successfully derived starting from classic ‘closed’ design. In order to fully test the method, the mm‐wave rectangular‐to‐circular open‐waveguide transition has been manufactured and measured (thanks to tapered close‐to‐open transitions and standard WR10 interfaces). The measurements well agree with full‐wave numerical simulations and provide experimental validation of the proposed approach and fabrication technology. The method can be applied to other open microwave structures as well.
Improved dielectric properties of PVDF nanocomposites with core–shell structured BaTiO3 @polyurethane nanoparticles
Authors: Zheng Ming‐Sheng , Zhang Chong , Yang Yu , Xing Zhao‐Liang , Chen Xin , Zhong Shao‐Long , Dang Zhi‐Min
Published: September 2020

Polymer nanocomposites with improved dielectric permittivity and high breakdown strength are extremely desirable for the flexible electronic devices and power systems. The compatibility of fillers and polymer matrix is important in determining the dielectric and breakdown strength properties. The core–shell structure concept is useful to improve the compatibility of fillers with polymer matrix. Herein, an organic thermoplastic urethanes (TPU) polymer shell was successfully grafted on the surface of barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) and such a TPU shell improved the permittivity and breakdown strength of TPU@BT/PVDF polymer nanocomposites greatly. The permittivity of TPU@BT/PVDF nanocomposites with 12 wt% fillers at 102 Hz was up to 13.5, which was 1.5 times higher than that of pure poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). The improvement of the dielectric properties could be attributed to the enhanced interfacial polarisation between BT nanoparticles and TPU shell. Besides, the compatibility of BT nanoparticles and PVDF matrix was improved after the introduction of TPU shell. Accordingly, a highest breakdown strength value about 373 MV/m was obtained for the TPU@BT/PVDF nanocomposites with 7 wt% fillers. The core–shell strategy could be extended to a variety of inorganic fillers to improve the dielectric and breakdown strength properties of polymer nanocomposites.
Spectroscopic study of the HII regions in the NGC 1232 galaxy
Authors: Lima-Costa F. , Martins L. P. , Rodríguez-Ardila A. , Fraga L.
Published: September 2020

Context. NGC 1232 is a face-on spiral galaxy that serves as an excellent laboratory for the study of star formation due to its proximity. Recent studies have revealed interesting features about this galaxy: X-ray observations suggest that it recently collided with a dwarf galaxy, however, no apparent remnant is observed.

Aims. In this study, we search for evidence of this possible collision.

Methods. We used long-slit optical spectra of the galaxy in two different positions obtained with the Goodman spectrograph at the SOAR telescope.

Results. We detected 18 HII regions in the north-south direction and 22 HII regions in the east-west direction and a background galaxy, NGC 1232B, for which we present the first redshift measurement and spectral analysis. We used the stellar population fitting technique to study the underlying stellar population of NGC 1232 and NGC 1232B and to subtract it from the spectra to measure the emission lines. The emission lines were used to determine the extinction, electron density, chemical abundance, and the star-formation rate gradient of NGC 1232.

Conclusions. As is common in spiral galaxies, we found a stellar population gradient with older populations at the central regions and younger ones towards the outskirts, along with a negative oxygen abundance gradient of −0.16 dex/re. Due to the difficulty of measuring important emission lines, the number of objects for the abundance gradient is small, but there is a hint that this galaxy has a broken gradient profile, with a drop towards the center. Some authors have explained this effect as the result of a satellite collision, but observations of a large sample of spiral galaxies shows evidence that goes against such a mechanism. If the collision caused any disturbance in the galaxy, we believe it would be small and hard to detect with a limited number of objects. From all the other measurements, we found no deviations from a typical spiral galaxy and no significant difference between different directions in the galaxy. The stellar population and emission line analysis of NGC 1232B suggest that it is a starburst galaxy.
A comparative analysis of the outer-belt primitive families
Authors: De Prá M. N. , Pinilla-Alonso N. , Carvano J. , Licandro J. , Morate D. , Lorenzi V. , de León J. , Campins H. , Mothé-Diniz T.
Published: September 2020

Context.Asteroid families are witnesses to the intense collisional evolution that occurred on the asteroid belt. The study of the physical properties of family members can provide important information about the state of differentiation of the parent body and provide insights into how these objects were formed. Several of these asteroid families identified across the main belt are dominated by low-albedo, primitive asteroids. These objects are important for the study of Solar System formation because they were subject to weaker thermophysical processing and provide information about the early conditions of our planetary system.

Aims.We aim to study the diversity of physical properties among the Themis, Hygiea, Ursula, Veritas, and Lixiaohua families.

Methods.We present new spectroscopic data, combined with a comprehensive analysis using a variety of data available in the literature, such as albedo and rotational properties.

Results.Our results show that Themis and Hygiea families, the largest families in the region, present similar levels of hydration. Ursula and Lixiaohua families are redder in comparison to the others and present no sign of hydrated members based on the analysis of visible spectra. Conversely, Veritas presents the highest fraction of hydrated members.

Conclusions.This work demonstrates a diverse scenario in terms of the physical properties of primitive outer-belt families, which could be associated with dynamical mixing of asteroid populations and the level of differentiation of the parental body.
Expansile Endocervical Crypt Involvement by CIN2 – 3 as a Risk Factor for High Grade Cytology Recurrence After Cold Coagulation Cervical Treatment
Authors: Papoutsis Dimitrios , Underwood Martyn , Williams Joanna , Parry-Smith William , Panikkar Jane
Published: September 2020

Introduction To determine whether expansile endocervical crypt involvement (ECI) on pretreatment cervical punch biopsies is a risk factor for high grade cytology recurrence in women following cold coagulation for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

Materials and Methods This was a secondary analysis on the results of an observational study of women who had a single cold coagulation cervical treatment between 2001 – 2011 and who were followed up for cytology recurrence. Women with a previous cervical treatment were excluded.

Results 559 women were identified with a mean age of 28.7 ± 6.2 years. Expansile and non-expansile ECI were identified in 5.4 and 4.3% of women, respectively. The proportion of women with high grade cytology recurrence was 10% for those with expansile ECI and 2.3% for those without. Multivariate analysis showed that women with expansile ECI when compared to those without, had a four-fold greater risk for high grade cytology recurrence (HR = 4.22; 95% CI: 1.10 – 16.29, p = 0.036). There was no significant association found between non-expansile ECI and overall or high grade cytology recurrence. The increased biopsy depth and the CIN3 grade of pretreatment cervical punch biopsies were significantly associated with greater odds for the detection of expansile ECI. We calculated that the optimal-cut off of pretreatment cervical punch biopsy depth for the detection of expansile ECI was 4 mm (sensitivity: 73.3%; specificity: 55.1%).

Conclusions Expansile ECI is a risk factor that increases the likelihood of high grade cytology recurrence following cold coagulation. Deeper pretreatment cervical punch biopsies need to be taken so as not to miss expansile ECI prior to ablative treatment.
The Significance of Preoperative Computed Tomography for Predicting Optimal Cytoreduction in Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Stachs Angrit , Engel Karen , Stubert Johannes , Reimer Toralf , Gerber Bernd , Dieterich Max
Published: September 2020

Introduction Optimal cytoreduction is the most important prognostic factor in advanced ovarian cancer. Although staging and assessment of operability are made by exploratory surgery, preoperative computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen is regarded as standard. The aim of this study was to examine various CT parameters with regard to prediction of optimal cytoreduction.

Patients and Methods The retrospective study included 131 patients with ovarian cancer newly diagnosed between 2010 and 2014. Of these, n = 36 with FIGO stage I to IIB were excluded from the study. A preoperative abdominal CT was available for n = 75 of the 95 patients with FIGO stage IIC to IV. The CT scans underwent blinded review. The 11 evaluated CT parameters were examined by means of χ2 test and logistic regression analysis with regard to the endpoints of macroscopic residual tumour and residual tumour > 1 cm. Survival analyses used the Kaplan-Meier method and log rank test.

Results Of 75 patients, 28 (37.3%) had complete tumour resection and 26 (34.7%) had residual tumour ≤ 1 cm. Residual tumours > 1 cm were found in 21 (28%) patients, five of which were not resectable. Overall survival with residual tumour > 1 cm differed significantly from the group with no macroscopic residual tumour (p = 0.003) and with residual tumour ≤ 1 cm (p = 0.04). The CT parameters tumour foci in the diaphragm, mesocolon, greater omentum and peritoneum as well as ascites correlated with macroscopic residual tumour. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis only the CT parameter intraparenchymal liver metastasis was statistically significant with regard to prediction of suboptimal tumour resection (> 1 cm) (OR 8.04; 95% CI 1.57 – 42.4; p = 0.0134). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were 37.5, 89.7, 66.7 and 72.2%.

Conclusion Although risk parameters for suboptimal tumour reduction can be identified by CT of the abdomen, surgical exploration with histological confirmation of the diagnosis is essential because of the poor diagnostic accuracy.
Demenzprävention und hausärztliche Versorgung: Schätzung der Zielpopulation
Authors: Bohlken Jens , Riedel-Heller Steffi , Gothe Holger , Kostev Karel
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund Die Demenzprävention, insbesondere die kardiovaskulare Prävention kognitiver Störungen, gerät zunehmend mehr ins Blickfeld der Versorgungsforschung. Ziel dieser Studie ist die Ermittlung der möglichen Zielpopulation für demenzpräventive Ansätze sowie der Häufigkeit der Gesundheitsuntersuchungen (GU) in den einzelnen Hausarztpraxen (HA).

Methode 987 Hausarztpraxen, die 2018 für die deutschlandweite IMS Disease Analyzer Datenbank (IQVIA) Daten geliefert haben, wurden bezüglich der Prävalenz folgender Diagnosen untersucht, die als Risikofaktoren für die Entwicklung von demenziellen Erkrankungen gelten: Hypertonie, Adipositas, Hörstörung jeweils im Alter von 45–65 und Diabetes und Depression im Alter über 65 Jahre. Darüber hinaus wurde erfasst, wie viele dieser Patienten eine Gesundheitsuntersuchung (GU) erhielten.

Ergebnisse In einer Stichprobe von 2398405 hausärztlich versorgten Patienten bestand die für demenzpräventive Maßnahmen relevante Zielpopulation 2018 aus 191883 Patienten mit Hypertonie, 23308 mit Adipositas, 5059 mit Hörstörung, 120200 mit Diabetes und 43233 mit Depression. Bei über einem Viertel dieser Patienten erfolgte bereits eine GU. Bezogen auf die einzelne Hausarztpraxis, wurden 2018 n am häufigsten Patienten mit Hypertonie (N = 51), Diabetes (N = 30,5) und Depression (N = 11,3) behandelt, seltener Patienten mit Adipositas (N = 8,2) und Hörstörung (N = 1,6).

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung Auf der Grundlage bestimmter Diagnosen in bestimmten Lebensphasen kann eine überschaubare Kerngruppe von Hausarztpatienten identifiziert werden, die für spezifische demenzpräventive Interventionen infrage kommen. Eine Implementierung demenzpräventiver Interventionen in den Praxen wird bei den selteneren Behandlungsdiagnosen Adipositas und Hörstörung schwieriger sein als bei den wesentlich häufigeren Behandlungsdiagnosen Hypertonie, Diabetes und Depression.
Apically Extruded Debris following Programmed Over Instrumentation of Curved Canals with Three Nickel Titanium Rotary Instruments
Authors: Yammine Salwa Daoud , Jabbour Edgard Antoine
Published: September 2020

Objectives This in vitro study aimed to compare the amount of mixed and dried debris extruded with three endodontic NiTi (nickel–titanium) systems at three levels beyond the major apical foramen. The null hypothesis is that there would be no differences between the different rotary systems in terms of apically extruded debris.

Materials and Methods  Forty-eight roots of human extracted molars with 20 to 40-degrees curvature were divided randomly into three groups (n = 16) instrumented with ProTaper Next, BT RaCe, and WaveOne Gold, respectively. Instrumentation was performed at the major foramen and over instrumented 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm beyond. Irrigation was performed with sodium hypochlorite. Apically extruded debris was collected.

Results Comparison of mixed extruded debris (solution/debris)and dried debris according to group and level of instrumentation showed that WaveOne Gold at the foramen and ProTaper Next beyond the foramen (p < 0.0001) resulted in significantly less extruded debris than other files and within the four levels using repeated measures analysis of variance (p < 0.0001b).

Conclusions All systems exhibit extruded debris during instrumentation but in different amounts.
Partial Trisomy 16q21-q24.3 with Novel Cardiac Manifestation of Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Dwivedi Aradhana , Kumar Vivek , Ramamurthy H. Ravi
Published: September 2020

Partial trisomy 16q is most often a consequence of malsegregation from a balanced parental translocation involving chromosome 16q. It is characterized by nonspecific craniofacial dysmorphic features, hypotonia, developmental delay, psychomotor retardation, and systemic manifestations of cardiac defect, renal abnormalities, and lung abnormalities. The survival of these patients depends upon the extent and severity of the organs involved. The present literature was replete with cases of partial trisomy 16q having structural cardiac defects. However, in the present report we described a novel finding of myocardial disease in the form of left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) cardiomyopathy associated with this genetic condition.
Anticoagulation Treatment in Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism: Assessment of Patient Preferences Using a Discrete Choice Experiment (COSIMO Study)
Authors: Picker Nils , Lee Agnes Y. , Cohen Alexander T. , Maraveyas Anthony , Beyer-Westendorf Jan , Mantovani Lorenzo G. , Abdelgawwad Khaled , Fatoba Samuel , Thate-Waschke Inga-Marion , Bach Miriam , Wilke Thomas
Published: September 2020

Introduction Clinical guidelines recommend anticoagulation therapy for the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE), but little is known about preferences. Therefore, the objective of this discrete choice experiment (DCE) was to elucidate patient preferences regarding anticoagulation convenience attributes.

Methods Adult patients with cancer-associated VTE who switched to direct oral anticoagulants were included in a single-arm study (COSIMO). Patients were asked to decide between hypothetical treatment options based on a combination of the following attributes: route of administration (injection/tablet), frequency of intake (once/twice daily), need for regular controls of the international normalized ratio (INR) at least every 3 to 4 weeks (yes/no), interactions with food/alcohol (yes/no), and distance to treating physician (1 vs. 20 km) as an additional neutral attribute. DCE data were collected by structured telephone interviews and analyzed based on a conditional logit regression.

Results Overall, 163 patients (mean age 63.7 years, 49.1% female) were included. They strongly preferred oral administration compared with self-injections (importance of this attribute for overall treatment decisions: 73.8%), and a treatment without dietary restrictions (11.8%). Even if these attributes were less important (7.2% and 6.5%, respectively), patients indicated a preference for a shorter distance to the treating physician and once-daily dosing compared with twice-daily intake. “Need for regular controls of INR at least every 3 to 4 weeks” showed no significant impact on the treatment decision (0.7%).

Conclusion This study showed that treatment-related decision making in cancer-associated VTE, assuming comparable effectiveness and safety of anticoagulant treatments, is predominantly driven by “route of administration,” with patients strongly preferring oral administration.
Hematology Laboratory Abnormalities in Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Christensen Bianca , Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Lippi Giuseppe , Van Cott Elizabeth M.
Published: September 2020

Over the past few months, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread across much of the world leading to a pandemic. Many infected individuals do not experience signs or symptoms, or experience only mild symptoms, whilst a subset experience severe disease, which is often fatal. A number of laboratory tests have been found to be abnormal in hospitalized patients, and some studies suggest some of these tests can predict an unfavorable outcome. These include markers of acute phase reaction (elevated C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell count, fibrinogen, procalcitonin, factor VIII, von Willebrand factor), signs of tissue injury (elevated lactic dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase, cardiac troponins), changes in hemostasis and coagulation (elevated D-dimer, prolonged prothrombin time, decreased platelets, decreased antithrombin, elevated factor VIII and von Willebrand factor), and decreased lymphocytes. Additional studies are needed to confirm the most ideal panel of tests, and to confirm the efficiency of laboratory tests to predict clinical outcome, as well as the ideal anticoagulation management.
Atrial Cardiopathy and Likely Pathogenic Patent Foramen Ovale in Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source
Authors: Leventis Ioannis A. , Sagris Dimitrios , Strambo Davide , Perlepe Kalliopi , Sirimarco Gaia , Nannoni Stefania , Korompoki Eleni , Manios Efstathios , Makaritsis Konstantinos , Vemmos Konstantinos , Michel Patrik , Ntaios George
Published: September 2020

Background Atrial cardiopathy and likely pathogenic patent foramen ovale (PFO) are two potential embolic sources in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). The relationship between these two mechanisms among ESUS patients remains unclear.

Methods Atrial cardiopathy was defined as increased left atrial diameter index (> 23 mm/m2) or left atrial volume index (> 34 mL/m2), or PR prolongation (≥ 200 ms), or presence of supraventricular extrasystoles in the electrocardiograms performed during hospitalization for the index stoke. The presence of PFO was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography with microbubble test or by transesophageal echocardiography. The presence of PFO was considered as likely pathogenic if the Risk of Paradoxical Embolism score was 7 to 10.

Results Among 367 ESUS patients with available information about the presence of PFO and the presence of atrial cardiopathy (median age: 61 years, 40.6% women), likely pathogenic PFO was diagnosed in 62 (16.9%) and atrial cardiopathy in 122 (33.2%). Only 4 patients (1.1%) had both likely pathogenic PFO and atrial cardiopathy. The prevalence of atrial cardiopathy was lower in patients with likely pathogenic PFO (6.5%) compared with patients with likely incidental PFO (31.2%) or without PFO (40.6%) (Pearson's chi-square test: 26.08, p < 0.001; adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09–0.86). The prevalence of likely pathogenic PFO was lower in patients with atrial cardiopathy compared with patients without atrial cardiopathy (3.3% vs. 23.7%, respectively [Pearson's chi-square test: 24.13, p < 0.001; adjusted OR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.02–0.6]).

Conclusion The presence of atrial cardiopathy is inversely related to the presence of likely pathogenic PFO in patients with ESUS.
Comparison of Speech Perception Abilities of Children using Bimodal Hearing with Children using Cochlear Implant Alone
Authors: Belsare Gauri , Sarda Sharda , Bhardwaj Prakash , Belsare Sai
Published: September 2020

Introduction There are very few studies comparing speech perception abilities of children using bimodal hearing over monaural cochlear implant and factors related to benefit of bimodal hearing. The aim of this study is to compare speech perception abilities of children using bimodal fitting versus children using cochlear implant alone and explore factors related to benefit of bimodal hearing.

Materials and Methods In the present study, 20 cochlear implantees with the hearing age range of 3 to 8 years were included. Speech perception performance was assessed by means of Parent’s Evaluation of Aural/Oral Performance of Children scale and early speech perception (ESP) test: Pattern Perception Words, Monosyllabic Words, Bisyllabic, and Trisyllabic Words Identification test. ESP test was carried out in two conditions cochlear implant with hearing aid in opposite ear (CIHA), bimodal, and cochlear implant (CI) alone. Aided audiometry was also carried out in above mentioned two conditions.

Results and Discussion On aided audiometry test, aided thresholds were improved by 5 to 6 dB in CIHA condition as compared to CI alone condition in 14 out of 20 children. Whereas on speech perception test, there was a significant improvement of 15 to 20% on domains of ESP test in these children. Factors such as implant age, chronological age, and number of hours of hearing aid usage were not significantly associated with benefit. Nevertheless aided threshold at 4,000 Hz was found to be significantly associated with bimodal benefit.

Conclusion Bimodal hearing is beneficial in most of the children than monaural hearing through cochlear implant.
Identification and Sensitivity of Vaginal and Probiotic Lactobacillus species to Urinary Antibiotics
Authors: Singhal Lipika , Gupta Varsha , Gupta Menal , Goel Poonam , Chander Jagdish
Published: September 2020

Objectives Healthy vaginal microbiota is mainly dominated by Lactobacillus species namely L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, and L. iners. Lactobacilli are thought to play an important role in the prevention of urogenital infections, and Lactobacillus probiotics to restore and/or maintain vaginal health has been advocated. These can interfere with the adherence, growth, and colonization by uropathogenic bacteria, thus reducing the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). This study aims to isolate and evaluate the susceptibility of healthy vaginal and probiotic Lactobacillus spp. to urinary antibiotics.

Materials and methods A total of 50 premenopausal, nonmenstruating women with no symptoms of vaginal infection or UTI or antimicrobial use in the past 2 weeks were enrolled. Two high vaginal swabs were collected for Nugent’s scoring and anaerobic culture. Colonies yielding gram-positive rods were confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Lactobacillus strains in a vaginal probiotic tablet were also isolated, and the sensitivity of both sets to urinary antibiotics was determined.

Results A total of 29 Lactobacillus spp. were isolated, including L. crispatus (15), L. gasseri (5), L. vaginalis (4), L. paracasei (2), L. curvatus (1), L. fermentum (1), and L. paraplantarum (1). All strains were susceptible to nitrofurantoin and resistant to norfloxacin, gentamicin, and cotrimoxazole (except L. paracasei). The probiotic strains were pan-sensitive.

Conclusions Prophylactic antibiotics are capable of eliminating the normal vaginal inhabitants, which may increase the probability of UTI. The administration of vaginal probiotics as an alternate or multidrug therapy can restore vaginal microbiota and help prevent recurrent UTI.
Ground state solitary waves for nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger systems
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Zuo Anjie , Liu Sanyang
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we studied a class of nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger systems modeling the propagation of two polarized and coherent light beams in nematic liquid crystals. The existences of local and global solutions for the corresponding Cauchy problems were derived first upon applying Strichartz’s estimates and conservation laws. The solitary wave solutions of the Schrödinger system were investigated next, and the existence of positive radially ground state vector solitary wave solutions was proved by using the rearrangement method and the minimization argument.
Multimodal behavior of the dynamic magnetic susceptibility spectrum in amorphous CoZrTaB magnetic thin films
Authors: Jordan D. , Wei G. , Masood A. , O'Mathuna C. , McCloskey P.
Published: September 2020

The origins of sub-Ferromagnetic Resonance (FMR) multimodal behavior in the magnetic susceptibility spectrum of amorphous CoZrTaB magnetic thin films are investigated using Brown's diffusion model describing continuous diffusion of magnetic spins. Brown's diffusion model is regressed onto experimental data for the amorphous CoZrTaB magnetic thin films with thicknesses spanning 80–530 nm. The mathematical model presented successfully reproduces the thickness dependent dynamic magnetic susceptibility of the amorphous CoZrTaB magnetic thin films with strong statistical significance. The model proposes the formation of additional energy wells in the uniaxial anisotropy energy plane of the material after a critical film thickness. The sub-FMR resonance peaks arise when the frequency of the external excitation field approaches the natural frequency of the well. Furthermore, the additional energy wells in the anisotropy energy plane cause a breakdown in the axial symmetry of the anisotropy energy plane. This breakdown of axial symmetry results in dynamic coupling between the transverse (χ⊥) and longitudinal (χ∥) magnetic susceptibility. This dynamic coupling results in the initial low frequency step-down in the magnetic susceptibility observed in the thicker CoZrTaB magnetic thin films. It is found that the application of an external bias magnetic field along the easy axis of the amorphous CoZrTaB magnetic thin films suppresses the sub-FMR resonance peaks by restoring the axial symmetry of the anisotropy energy plane.
Modulation of spin conversion in a 1.5 nm-thick Pd film by ionic gating
Authors: Yoshitake Shin-Ichiro , Ohshima Ryo , Shinjo Teruya , Ando Yuichiro , Shiraishi Masashi
Published: September 2020

Gate-induced modulation of the spin–orbit interaction (SOI) in a 1.5 nm-thick Pd thin film grown on a ferrimagnetic insulator was investigated. Efficient charge accumulation by ionic gating enables a substantial upshift in the Fermi level of the Pd film, which was corroborated by the suppression of the resistivity in the Pd. Electromotive forces arising from the inverse spin Hall effect in Pd under spin pumping were substantially modulated by the gating, in consequence of the modulation of the spin Hall conductivity of Pd as in an ultrathin Pt film. The same experiment using a thin Cu film, for which the band structure is largely different from Pd and Pt and its SOI is quite small, provides further results supporting our claim. The results obtained help in developing a holistic understanding of the gate-tunable SOI in solids and confirm a previous explanation of the significant modulation of the spin Hall conductivity in an ultrathin Pt film by gating.
Hydrodynamics of gas/shear-thinning liquid two-phase flow in a co-flow mini-channel: Flow pattern and bubble length
Authors: Fan Wen Yuan , Li Shuai Chao , Li Li Xiang , Zhang Xi , Du Meng Qi , Yin Xiao Hong
Published: September 2020

The flow patterns and bubble characteristics formed during gas–liquid flows in a circular co-flow mini-channel with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) aqueous solutions are investigated experimentally. The pattern transition and bubble length are elucidated by systematically analyzing the influences of the various factors of the ratio of gas–liquid flow rates, CMC solution mass fraction, and surfactant [sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)] mass fraction. Five kinds of flow regimes, namely, bubbly flow, Taylor flow, Taylor-annular flow, annular flow, and churn flow, are identified visually in the fully developed region of the inlet side of the channel, and a universal flow-regime map in terms of the gas and liquid inlet flow rates is constructed using water, CMC solution, and polyacrylamide solution to cover a broad range of material properties. It is found that the ratio of gas–liquid flow rates has a remarkable influence on the flow pattern transitions. The CMC solution mass fraction and SDS mass fraction can also affect the flow-regime map by varying the flow drag force and surface tension acting on the bubble in the mini-channel. The bubble length increases with the ratio of gas–liquid flow rates but decreases with the increase in the CMC fraction and SDS fraction. Based on consideration of the rheological properties of the liquid, a scaling law of bubble length in a co-flow mini-channel with shear-thinning liquids is developed, and the results predicted by it can agree with the measurement data very well under present conditions.
A sharp Clifford wavelet Heisenberg-type uncertainty principle
Authors: Banouh Hicham , Ben Mabrouk Anouar
Published: September 2020

In the present work, we are concerned with the development of a new uncertainty principle based on the wavelet transform in the Clifford analysis/algebra framework. We precisely derive a sharp Heisenberg-type uncertainty principle for the continuous Clifford wavelet transform.
Detection of standing internal gravity waves in experiments with convection over a wavy heated wall
Authors: Barel L. , Eidelman A. , Elperin T. , Fleurov G. , Kleeorin N. , Levy A. , Rogachevskii I. , Shildkrot O.
Published: September 2020

Convection over a wavy heated bottom wall in the air flow has been studied in experiments with the Rayleigh number of ∼108. It is shown that the mean temperature gradient in the flow core inside a large-scale circulation is directed upward, which corresponds to the stably stratified flow. In the experiments with a wavy heated bottom wall, we detect large-scale standing internal gravity waves (IGWs) excited in the regions with the stably stratified flow. The wavelength and the period of these waves are much larger than the turbulent spatial and time scales, respectively. In particular, the frequencies of the observed large-scale waves vary from 0.006 Hz to 0.07 Hz, while the turbulent time in the integral scale is about 0.5 s. The measured spectra of these waves contain several localized maxima that imply an existence of waveguide resonators for large-scale standing IGWs. For comparisons, experiments with convection over a smooth plane bottom wall at the same mean temperature difference between the bottom and upper walls have also been conducted. In these experiments, various locations with a stably stratified flow are also found, and large-scale standing IGWs are observed in these regions.
High-power waveguide phase shifters for phased array applications
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhao Xuhao , Yuan Chengwei , Zhang Jiande , Sun Yunfei
Published: September 2020

Two kinds of high-power waveguide phase shifters targeting the application of phased arrays are proposed in this paper. To enhance the power handling capacity, both linear phase shifters are designed to be mechanically tunable without the introduction of a dielectric and a semiconductor. For the waveguide-inserting-fin phase shifter, the phase shifting function is achieved by adjusting the length of the inserting metal fin. As for the narrow-side slot-waveguide phase shifter, the regulation of the position of the metal choke plunger placed at the end of the 3-dB power divider is used to adjust the output phase. The simulation results show that both phase shifters can realize 2π phase shift, and the transmission efficiencies are over 99% at the central frequency of 9.5 GHz. Meantime, the power handling capacity of the designed shifters is expected to be over 100 MW, which can be applied in the high-power microwave region. The slot-waveguide phase shifter is fabricated and tested along with the slotted array antenna. The experimental results coincide well with the simulations, which demonstrates the feasibility and the power capacity of the designed shifter.
FORC signatures and switching-field distributions of dipolar coupled nanowire-based hysterons
Authors: Pierrot A. , Béron F. , Blon T.
Published: September 2020

Analysis of first-order reversal curves (FORCs) is a powerful tool to probe irreversible switching events in nanomagnet assemblies. As in essence switching events are related to the intrinsic properties of the constituents and their interactions, the resulting FORC diagrams contain much information that can be cross-linked and complex to deconvolute. In order to quantify the relevant parameters that drive the FORC diagrams of arrays of perpendicularly magnetized nanomagnets, we present step-by-step simulations of assemblies of hysterons to determine the specific signatures related to different known inputs. While we explored the consequences of dipolar interactions using either mean field or magnetostatic approaches, we completed by taking the hysteron switching field distribution (SFD) as either normal or lognormal. We demonstrated that the transition between FORC diagrams composed of an isolated interaction field distribution (IFD) and a wishbone shape operates via the SFD deviation, σHsw, in the presence of a weakly dispersed interaction field. In the presence of a magnetostatic interaction field, the IFD profile is peaked and a coercive field distribution (CFD) sums to the IFD as σHsw increases. A transition between IFD + CFD and wishbone shapes is clearly demonstrated as a function of the interaction field deviation σHint. In addition, we demonstrate that whatever the considered cases, σHswcan be quantitatively extracted from the FORC diagrams within an error inferior to 10%. These findings are of interest for dipolar coupled perpendicularly magnetized nanomagnets, as in assemblies of magnetic nanowires and nanopillars, as well as bit patterned media.
Pseudo-thermal ghost imaging with “learned” wavelength conversion
Authors: Ye Zhiyuan , Sheng Dian , Hao Zhendong , Wang Hai-Bo , Xiong Jun , Wang Xia , Jin Weiqi
Published: September 2020

Ghost imaging (GI) is an imaging modality using light that has never physically interacted with the object to be imaged. The success of GI relies on the strong spatial correlation of photons. However, not all optical systems in nature are strongly spatially correlated. Two-color pseudo-thermal GI (PGI) can be viewed as such a weakly correlated system with two independent light sources. In this Letter, Deep Learning is introduced to learn the correlation between two-color speckle patterns, which solves the problem of two-color PGI with a wavelength gap of 101 nm (from 633 nm to 532 nm). Further, we retrieved dual-band ghost images using one broad-spectrum bucket detector and the reference speckle patterns at 633 nm. Our scheme provides insights into all PGI with weak correlation and also is a potential approach for multi-spectral PGI with “learned” wavelength conversion, especially for invisible wavebands.
Analyzing Data from the Park
Authors: Bakken Clarence
Published: September 2020

The previous section describes how to collect force or acceleration data using hand-held and electronic means as well as barometer data that can be turned into a ride profile. This section will discuss the analysis of data, including how to approach the sets of “wiggles and squiggles” one sees in typical roller coaster graphs.
Taking a Class to Physics Day
Authors: Bakken Clarence
Published: September 2020

Having decided to take your class to Physics Day, you need to work out many details. The items that follow are keyed to a checklist on p. 58. While not every item may be applicable to your situation, most of them will be.
Physics and 21st Century Science Standards
Authors:   AAPT
Published: September 2020

This book aims to help K–12 physics teachers understand how their classroom practice aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), first drafted in 2012. It provides an overview and history of the NGSS, as well as guidelines to reading and interpreting performance expectations, which are embedded with the three dimensions of science learning. Teachers can find out how they can effectively align their practice should their state adopt the NGSS.

Key highlights:Identifies physics concepts across all kindergarten through high school grade bandsAnalyzes the high school physics standards that are included in and excluded from performance expectationsIdentifies weaknesses and omissions in the guidelines, with recommendations for improvement.

Physics and 21st Century Science Standards will help K–12 physics and science teachers better understand how their classroom practice is or could be aligned with the NGSS.
Tension Forces
Authors: Camp Charles W. , Clement John J.
Published: September 2020

The design of this unit assumes some earlier work with springs. The earlier units on Normal Forces and Friction Forces and a lab experience working with springs are recommended.1
Inertia and Gravitational Force
Authors: Camp Charles W. , Clement John J.
Published: September 2020

This unit builds on previous lessons establishing ideas of the existence of inertia and gravitational force. It addresses two major objectives: the existence of inertia in space (and its dependence on mass) without gravitation and the ability to give a coherent explanation of events in which the inertial and the gravitational property must be considered simultaneously. The major case we will consider is the problem of why objects with unequal mass fall at the same rate.