bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sports participation improves metabolic profile in adolescents: ABCD growth study
Authors: Cayres‐Santos Suziane Ungari , Urban Jacqueline Bexiga , Barbosa Maurício Fregonesi , Lemes Italo Ribeiro , Kemper Han C. G. , Fernandes Romulo Araújo
Published: December 2019

To analyze the impact of participation in sports with different cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) demands on changes in metabolic and cardiovascular markers in adolescents. Longitudinal study with 12 months of follow‐up (Analysis of Behaviors of Children During Growth [ABCD Growth Study]). Overall, 184 adolescents (age 15.6 ± 2.1) were classified according to sports participation: non‐sport (control), low CRF sports, and high CRF sports. Metabolic outcomes were total cholesterol (TC) and its fractions, triacylglycerol (TG), glucose, insulin levels, and the insulin resistance index. Cardiovascular outcomes were arterial thickness (carotid and femoral [ultrasound]), blood pressure, and resting heart rate. Adolescents engaged in sports classified as high CRF demand presented a significant increase in HDL‐c (1.2 mg/dL [95%CI: −0.5 to 3.0]) when compared to the non‐sport group (−2.4 mg/dL [95%CI: −4.4 to −0.5]). Regular engagement in high CRF sports was significantly related to changes in TC (β = −0.027 [95%CI: −0.048 to −0.005]), HDL‐c (β = 0.009 [95%CI: 0.001 to 0.019]), LDL‐c (β = −0.032 [95%CI: −0.049 to −0.016]), and glucose (β = −0.017 [95%CI: −0.025 to −0.008]), while engagement in low CRF sports was related to changes in TG (β = −0.065 [95%CI: −0.112 to −0.019]). No significant relationships for cardiovascular parameters were observed in the low CRF group, but one significant relationship was found between high CRF sports and changes in SBP (β = −0.063 [95%CI: −0.117 to −0.009]). In conclusion, engagement in sports seems to be beneficial for improvements in metabolic and cardiovascular parameters in adolescents, mainly sports with higher CRF demand.
Further delineation of the phenotypic spectrum associated with hemizygous loss‐of‐function variants in NONO
Authors: Sewani Maham , Nugent Kimberly , Blackburn Patrick R. , Tarnowski Jessica M. , Hernandez‐Garcia Andres , Amiel Jeanne , Whalen Sandra , Keren Boris , Courtin Thomas , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Yang Yaping , Patterson Marc C. , Pichurin Pavel , McLean Scott D. , Scott Daryl A.
Published: December 2019

The non‐POU domain containing, octamer‐binding gene, NONO, is located on chromosome Xq13.1 and encodes a member of a small family of RNA and DNA binding proteins that perform a variety of tasks involved in RNA synthesis, transcriptional regulation and DNA repair. Hemizygous loss‐of‐function variants in NONO have been shown to cause mental retardation, X‐linked, syndromic 34 in males. Features of this disorder can include a range of neurodevelopmental phenotypes, left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC), congenital heart defects, and CNS anomalies. To date only eight cases have been described in the literature. Here we report two unrelated patients and a miscarried fetus with loss‐of‐function variants in NONO. Their phenotypes, and a review of previously reported cases, demonstrate that hemizygous loss‐of‐function variants in NONO cause a recognizable genetic syndrome. The cardinal features of this condition include developmental delay, intellectual disability, hypotonia, macrocephaly, structural abnormalities affecting the corpus callosum and/or cerebellum, LVNC, congenital heart defects, and gastrointestinal/feeding issues. This syndrome also carries an increased risk for strabismus and cryptorchidism and is associated with dysmorphic features that include an elongated face, up/down‐slanted palpebral fissures, frontal bossing, and malar hypoplasia.
DNA Origami Post‐Processing by CRISPR‐Cas12a
Authors: Xiong Qiancheng , Xie Chun , Zhang Zhao , Liu Longfei , Powell John T , Shen Qi , Lin Chenxiang
Published: December 2019

Customizable nanostructures built through the DNA‐origami technique hold tremendous promise in nanomaterial fabrication and biotechnology. Despite the cutting‐edge tools for DNA‐origami design and preparation, it remains challenging to separate structural components of an architecture built from—thus held together by—a continuous scaffold strand, which in turn limits the modularity and function of the DNA‐origami devices. To address this challenge, here we present an enzymatic method to clean up and reconfigure DNA‐origami structures. We target single‐stranded (ss) regions of DNA‐origami structures and remove them with CRISPR‐Cas12a, a hyper‐active ssDNA endonuclease without sequence specificity. We demonstrate the utility of this facile, selective post‐processing method on DNA structures with various geometrical and mechanical properties, realizing intricate structures and structural transformations that were previously difficult to engineer. Given the biocompatibility of Cas12a‐like enzymes, this versatile tool may be programmed in the future to operate functional nanodevices in cells.
The Effect of the Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon in the Formation of Fullerenes
Authors: Wu Bo , Jiang Li , Luo Yi , Wang Chunru
Published: December 2019

Tremendous advances in nanoscience have been made since the discovery of fullerenes. However, the short timescale of the growth process and high‐energy conditions of synthesis result in severe constraints to investigation of the mechanism of fullerene formation. In this work, we attempted to reveal the formation process by analyzing the variation in the yield of fullerenes under different conditions. Experiments and theoretical analysis show that the formation of fullerenes could be affected by the addition of polycyclic aromatic compounds. It is proposed that the formation of C60 during arc‐discharge synthesis is fragment assembling, while the yield of C2m (m=35, 38, 39) is strongly enhanced by building‐block splicing. In addition, several features of the building blocks are put forward to predict the extent of their influence to the formation of larger fullerenes C2n (n≥42). This work not only provides essential insight into the formation process of fullerenes, but more importantly also paves the way to improving the yield of larger fullerenes selectively.
Novel green synthesis of Boswellia serrata leaf aqueous extract conjugated gold nanoparticles with excellent anti‐acute myeloid leukemia property in comparison to mitoxantrone in a leukemic mice model: Introducing a new chemotherapeutic drug
Authors: Ahmeda Ahmad , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi
Published: December 2019

The present research confirms the capacity of aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata grown under in vitro condition for the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Also, we showed the cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and anti‐acute myeloid leukemia properties of AuNPs compared to mitoxantrone in a leukemic mouse model. The synthesized AuNPs were characterized using several techniques including XRD, TEM, FE‐SEM, UV–Vis, and FT‐IR. From the XRD pattern, four distinct diffraction peaks at 38.2°, 44.2°, 64.7° and 77.4° are indexed as (111), (200), (220) and (311) planes of FCC metallic gold. TEM and FE‐SEM images revealed an average diameters of 15–30 nm for the nanoparticles. FT‐IR findings offered antioxidant compounds in the nanoparticles were the sources of reducing power, reducing gold ions to AuNPs. UV–Vis revealed an absorption band at 536 nm that is related to the surface plasmon resonance of AuNPs. In vivo design, induction of acute myeloid leukemia was done by DMBA in 75 mice. Then, the mice were randomly divided into six subgroups, including untreated, control, HAuCl4, B. serrata, AuNPs, and mitoxantrone. AuNPs (In the dose of 1 mg/kg body weight) similar to mitoxantrone, significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased the platelet, lymphocyte, and RBC parameters and the anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL4, IL5, IL10, IL13, and IFNα) and reduced the weights and volumes of liver and spleen and their sub‐compartment, the total WBC, blast, monocyte, neutrophil, eosinophil, and basophil counts, and the pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL1, IL6, IL12, IL18, IFNY, and TNFα) as compared to the untreated mice. By quantitative Real‐Time PCR, S1PR1 and S1PR5 mRNA expression in lymphocytes were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased by treating the leukemic mice with the AuNPs and mitoxantrone. In vitro design, AuNPs similar to mitoxantrone had low cell viability dose‐dependently against Human HL‐60/vcr, 32D‐FLT3‐ITD, and Murine C1498 cell lines without any cytotoxicity on HUVEC cell line. Besides, the DPPH assay showed similar antioxidant potentials for AuNPs and mitoxantrone. In conclusion, the results of this research indicated the excellent capacity of synthesized gold nanoparticles using B. serrata leaf aqueous extract in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia in leukemic mice.
Cyclometalated Iridium (III) complexes: Recent advances in phosphorescence bioimaging and sensing applications
Authors: Abbas Sumaira , Din Imtiaz‐ud‐Din , Raheel Ahmad , Tameez ud Din Asim
Published: December 2019

The phosphorescence bioimaging and sensing applications of Iridium (III) complexes, in particular to subcellular organelle staining as well as sensing of biologically important analytes, have been reviewed here. The bioimaging applications of the metal complexes provide an attractive alternative to fluorescent organic compounds in the construction of biosensors and biolabels because of having certain advantages.
How different Are crowdfunders? Examining archetypes of crowdfunders
Authors: Lin Yan , Boh Wai Fong
Published: December 2019

We unpack the complexities of the crowdfunder community by identifying different archetypes of crowdfunders funding technology projects on Kickstarter.com. Drawing on the extant literature on innovation adoption and opinion leadership, we propose two dimensions of crowdfunders that capture the heterogeneity in crowdfundersʼ behavior: opinion leadership and interest specialization of crowdfunders. Using a set of variables representing these two dimensions, our analysis revealed five distinct archetypes of crowdfunders: the Vocal Actives, the Silent Actives, the Focused Enthusiasts, the Trend Followers, and the Star Seekers, who each adopted distinct crowdfunding strategies. We established external and criterion‐related validity of the cluster solutions in multiple ways. Our results suggest that the composition of crowdfunders is complex, even within a single platform.
Optimal Control of Forward‐Backward Stochastic Jump‐Diffusion Differential Systems with Observation Noises: Stochastic Maximum Principle
Authors: Wang Meijiao , Shi Qiuhong , Meng Qingxin
Published: December 2019

This paper is concerned with a partially observed optimal control problem for a controlled forward‐backward stochastic system with correlated noises between the system and the observation, which generalizes the result of a previous work to a jump‐diffusion system. Under some convexity assumptions, necessary and sufficient optimality conditions for such an optimal control are established in the form of Pontryagin type maximum principle in a unified way by means of duality analysis and convex variational techniques
Electrochemical Activation of 2D MXene‐Based Hybrid for High Volumetric Mg‐Ion Storage Capacitance
Authors: Gyu Jung Min , Sambhaji Gund Girish , Gogotsi Yury , Seok Park Ho
Published: December 2019

Electrochemical capacitors are considered as a strong candidate of energy storage device due to their high power density and long cycle lifetime. However, commercial carbon‐based electrochemical capacitors provide only about 60 F cm−3 of volumetric capacitance due to low packing density and intrinsic areal capacitance. Two‐dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides/nitrides, known as MXenes, have received attention due to their high electronic conductivity, surface modification, and abilities to achieve superior ion intercalation and packing density. Here, we report the improved volumetric Mg‐ion storage capacitance of 2D MXene/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid through electrochemical activation. Along with high volumetric capacitance of 439 F cm−3 at 2 mV s−1, MXene/rGO hybrid electrode exhibits superior capacitive retention of 87 % after 10,000 cycles in aqueous Mg‐ion system. Thus, our hybrid electrode and electrochemical activation approach opens new avenues to store Mg and other multivalent ions for high volumetric capacitance of electrochemical capacitors.
Of embryos and tumors: Cyclopia and the relevance of mechanistic teratology
Authors: DeSesso John M.
Published: December 2019

Embryos and tumors share several characteristics, but embryos differ from tumors in their coordination of cellular‐ and tissue‐level processes, including organized differentiation, remodeling of tissues through apoptosis, and disciplined migrations of cells. Embryonic cellular events are kept on track through orderly cell–cell communication via signal transduction pathways. If the pathways are disrupted, development is perturbed, and malformation may result. Despite profound differences between embryos and tumors, the study of one has benefited our understanding of the other. Using cyclopia as an example, the history of humans' beliefs concerning and reactions to this horrific malformation are explored. During the latter half of the 20th century, interest in cyclopic sheep from high pastures in western Idaho led to the discovery that cyclopia occurred after pregnant ewes foraged in fields containing corn lily (Veratrum californicum). Eventually, the proximate teratogen was identified as cyclopamine (a steroidal alkaloid). The teratogenic mechanism was identified as inhibition of the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signal transduction pathway. Alert cancer researchers noted that a prominent form of medulloblastoma (a devasting childhood brain tumor) overexpressed Shh. Cyclopamine effectively inhibited the tumor in mice and killed human medulloblastoma cells in vitro. Thus, over a 60‐year period, a molecule causing hideous malformations and much emotional pain was discovered and then found capable of restraining a destructive tumor, potentially saving children's lives and sparing emotional devastation of their families. The success of identifying cyclopamine as a cause of cyclopia and a potential cure for medulloblastoma emerged from mechanistic research shared by multiple disciplines.
Dosimetric features and kinetic parameters of a glass system dosimeter
Authors: Mhareb M.H.A. , Alajerami Y.S.M. , Alqahtani Muna , Alshahri Fatimh , Saleh Noha , Alonizan N. , Maghrabi M. , Hashim S. , Ghoshal S.K.
Published: December 2019

Lithium borate (LB) glasses doped with dysprosium oxide (Dy2O3) have been prepared by utilizing the conventional melt‐quench technique. The prepared glass samples were exposed to 60Co to check their dosimetric features and kinetic parameters. These features involve glow curves, annealing, fading, reproducibility, minimum detectable dose (MDD), and effective atomic number (Zeff). Kinetic parameters including the frequency factors and activation energy were also determined using three methods (glow curve analysis, initial rise, and peak shape method) and were thoroughly interpreted. In addition, the incorporation of Dy impurities into LB enhanced the thermoluminescence sensitivity ~170 times. The glow from LB:Dy appeared as a single prominent peak at 190°C. The best annealing proceeding was obtained at 300°C for 30 min. Signal stability was reported for a period of 1 and 3 months with a reduction of 26% and 31%, respectively. The proposed glass samples showed promising dosimeter properties that can be recommended for personal radiation monitoring.
Sensory innervation of the human elbow joint and surgical considerations
Authors: Laumonerie Pierre , Tiercelin Joris , Tibbo Meagan E. , Robert Suzanne , Sophie Vardon , Bertagnoli Clemence , Bonnevialle Nicolas , Chaynes Patrick , Mansat Pierre
Published: December 2019

Based on the currently available literature, total denervation of the elbow joint is considered impossible. However, consensus with respect to the anatomic location of sensory branches is lacking. The aim of this literature review was to establish consensus with respect to the anatomic features of the articular branches innervating the elbow joint, as well as the distribution of sensory receptors about its capsule. Four electronic databases were queried, between January 1945 and June 2019. Twenty‐one original articles providing a detailed description of the distribution of sensory receptors about the elbow joint capsule (5) and its articular branches (16) were reviewed. The posterior capsule was found to be primarily innervated by the ulnar and radial nerves via combined articular branches and sensory branches of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. The anterior capsule was found to be primarily innervated by a plexus of articular ramifications from muscular branches of mixed nerves (ulnar, musculocutaneous, radial, and median nerves). A higher density of nociceptors and mechano‐receptors was identified within the posterior and anterior capsules, respectively. Thorough denervation, via the technique proposed herein, is likely to be sufficient in eliminating pain from degenerative conditions of the elbow joint.
Morphological evaluation of the scapula by three‐dimensional computed tomography to elucidate shoulder joint function
Authors: Iwashita Satoshi , Sugamoto Kazuomi , Hashiguchi Hiroshi , Yoneda Minoru , Takai Shinro
Published: December 2019

Introduction

There are many variations of scapula morphology. Evaluation of scapula morphology is necessary to elucidate shoulder joint movement. We aimed to analyze the bone morphology of various parts constituting the scapula to identify certain conserved features among them.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐one healthy individuals were the subjects. We created a scapular three‐dimensional (3D) model using computed tomography (CT). X and Y axes were set on a glenoid surface. We measured the approximate plane of the upper and lower scapular bodies and scapular spine and the central axis of the coracoid and acromion. The anatomical position of the scapular spine, upper and lower bodies, coracoid, and acromion was measured. The positional relationship between the upper and lower bodies and scapular spine and the coracoid and acromion was evaluated. The average angle of the upper and lower scapular bodies and the scapular spine with respect to the XZ plane was calculated. The average angle of the coracoid and acromion with the X‐axis on the XY plane and Z‐axis on the YZ plane was calculated.

Results

On the XY plane, approximate planes of the upper and lower part of the body and the scapular spine were significantly correlated to each inclination. On the XY plane, inclinations of the central axes of the coracoid and acromion were significantly correlated.

Conclusions

The findings revealed for the first time the correlation between the inclinations of the scapular body and scapular spine and the inclination angle between the coracoid and acromion.
Assessment of residual thrombus burden in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing bivalirudin versus unfractionated heparin infusion: The MATRIX (minimizing adverse hemorrhagic events by transradial access site and angioX) OCT study
Authors: Garcia‐Garcia Hector M. , Adamo Marianna , Soud Mohamad , Yacob Omar , Picchi Andrea , Sardella Gennaro , Frigoli Enrico , Limbruno Ugo , Rigattieri Stefano , Diletti Roberto , Boccuzzi Giacomo , Zimarino Marco , Contarini Marco , Russo Filippo , Calabrò Paolo , Andò Giuseppe , Varbella Ferdinando , Garducci Stefano , Palmieri Cataldo , Briguori Carlo , Karagiannis Alexios , Valgimigli Marco
Published: December 2019

Background

Residual stent strut thrombosis after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), negatively affects myocardial perfusion, may increase stent thrombosis risk, and it is associated with neointima hyperplasia at follow‐up.

Objectives

To study the effectiveness of any bivalirudin infusion versus unfractionated heparin (UFH) infusion in reducing residual stent strut thrombosis in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

Multi‐vessel STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI and requiring staged intervention were selected among those randomly allocated to two different bivalirudin infusion regimens in the MATRIX (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by TRansradial Access Site and angioX) Treatment‐Duration study. Those receiving heparin only were enrolled into a registry arm.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the infarct‐related artery was performed at the end of primary PCI and 3–5 days thereafter during a staged intervention. The primary endpoint was the change in minimum flow area (ΔMinFA) defined as (stent area + incomplete stent apposition [ISA] area) − (intraluminal defect + tissue prolapsed area) between the index and staged PCI.

Results

123 patients in bivalirudin arm and 28 patients in the UFH arm were included. Mean stent area, percentage of malapposed struts, and mean percent thrombotic area were comparable after index or staged PCI. The ΔMinFA in the bivalirudin group was 0.25 versus 0.05 mm2 in the UFH group, which resulted in a between‐group significant difference of 0.36 [95% CI: (0.05, 0.71); p = .02]. This was mostly related to a decrease in tissue protrusion in the bivalirudin group (p = .03). There was a trend towards more patients in the bivalirudin group who achieved a 5% difference in the percentage of OCT frames with the area >5% (p = .057).

Conclusions

The administration of bivalirudin after primary PCI significantly reduces residual stent strut thrombosis when compared to UFH. This observation should be considered hypothesis‐generating since the heparin‐treated patients were not randomly allocated.
Accelerated Semihydrogenation of Alkynes over a Copper/Palladium/Titanium (IV) Oxide Photocatalyst Free from Poison and H2 Gas
Authors: Imai Shota , Nakanishi Kousuke , Tanaka Atsuhiro , Kominami Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Selective hydrogenation of alkynes to alkenes (semihydrogenation) without the use of a poison and H2 is challenging because alkenes are easily hydrogenated to alkanes. In this study, a titanium (IV) oxide photocatalyst having Pd core‐Cu shell nanoparticles (Pd@Cu/TiO2) was prepared by using the two‐step photodeposition method, and Pd@Cu/TiO2 samples having various Cu contents were characterized by electron transmission microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV‐vis spectroscopy. Thus‐prepared Pd@Cu/TiO2 samples were used for photocatalytic hydrogenation of 4‐octyne in alcohol and the catalytic properties were compared with those of Pd/TiO2 and Cu/TiO2. 4‐Octyne was fully hydrogenated to octane over Pd/TiO2 at a high rate and 4‐octyne was semihydrogenated to cis‐4‐octene over Cu/TiO2 at a low rate. Rapid semihydrogenation of 4‐octyne was achieved over Pd(0.2 mol%)@Cu(1.0 mol%)/TiO2, indicating that the Pd core greatly activated the Cu shell that acted as reaction sites. A slight increase in the reaction temperature greatly increased the rate with a suppressed rate of H2 evolution as the side reaction. Changes in the reaction rates of the main and side reactions are discussed on the basis of results of kinetic studies. Reusability and expandability of Pd@Cu/TiO2 in semihydrogenation are also discussed.
Amplified Electrochemical Aptasensor for Sialic Acid Based on Carbon‐Cloth‐Supported Gold Nanodendrites and Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Lv Yubing , Zhou Yanli , Dong Hui , Liu Lantao , Mao Guoliang , Zhang Yintang , Xu Maotian
Published: December 2019

The abnormal expression of sialic acid (SA) on the cell surface or in bodily fluids has been proven to correlate with several diseases. An electrochemical approach has been developed for the sensitive and accurate determination of SA in human serum samples. Gold nanodendrites (AuNDs) electrodeposited on a carbon cloth (CC) electrode were utilized as the substrate electrode and provided high surface area and conductivity. The thiolated nucleic acid aptamer of SA was immobilized and recognized SA specifically, followed by the attachment of the nanocomposite of gold nanoparticles with 4‐mercaptophenylboric acid and thionine (MPBA−AuNP−Th) via boronic acid‐diol binding. An amplified signal by the electrochemical reduction of Th could be obtained because of high conductivity of substrate and high loading of Th on AuNPs. The proposed sensor exhibited remarkable selectivity and high sensitivity with a low detection limit of 60 nM, owing to the high affinity of aptamer and the signal amplification strategy, respectively. The feasibility of the aptasensor was verified by evaluation of SA level in human serum.
A field‐split preconditioning technique for fluid‐structure interaction problems with applications in biomechanics
Authors: Calandrini Sara , Aulisa Eugenio , Ke Guoyi
Published: December 2019

We present a novel preconditioning technique for Krylov subspace algorithms to solve fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) linearized systems arising from finite element discretizations. An outer Krylov subspace solver preconditioned with a geometric multigrid (GMG) algorithm is used, where for the multigrid level subsolvers, a field‐split (FS) preconditioner is proposed. The block structure of the FS preconditioner is derived using the physical variables as splitting strategy. To solve the subsystems originated by the FS preconditioning, an additive Schwarz (AS) block strategy is employed. The proposed FS preconditioner is tested on biomedical FSI applications. Both 2D and 3D simulations are carried out considering aneurysm and venous valve geometries. The performance of the FS preconditioner is compared with that of a second preconditioner of pure domain decomposition type.
New Insight into the Role of Mn Doping on the Bulk Structure Stability and Interfacial Stability of Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide
Authors: Li Wenjin , Zhuang Weidong , Gao Min , Zhou Yunan , Zhang Jian , Li Ning , Liu Xianghuan , Huang Wei , Lu Shigang
Published: December 2019

Nickel‐rich layered oxides have developed into appealing cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries in recent years for the sake of high energy density and low cost, but they suffer from severe capacity deterioration during long‐term cycling. Herein, Mn‐doped nickel‐rich Li(Ni0.88Co0.09Al0.03)1‐δMnδO2 (δ=0, 0.01, 0.02) cathode materials with a nanoscale NixMn1−xO‐type pillar layer are synthesized using a facile high‐shear dry mixing and high‐temperature calcination process in this study. The as‐fabricated M0.01−NCA electrode with a NixMn1−xO‐type layer about 20 nm exhibits excellent cycle performance compared with the pristine in coin‐cells and in pouch cells (the long‐term cycle number is four times that of the pristine). Detailed investigation of the fading mechanism is performed by HRTEM, ex‐situ XRD, XPS et al. The enhanced performance is directly related to the synergetic effects of bulk inactive Mn4+ doping and the increased nanoscale NixMn1−xO‐type pillar layer. The Mn dopants stabilize the lattice structure thus decreasing the microcracks, and the pillar layer protects the cathode from parasitic reactions with electrolytes during long‐term cycling. This work gives a new insight into the role of Mn doping on the enhanced structure of nickel‐rich layered oxides.
Parallel time series join using spark
Authors: Rong Chuitian , Chen Lili , Silva Yasin N.
Published: December 2019

A time series is a sequence of data points in successive temporal order. Time series data is produced in many applications scenarios, and the techniques for its analysis have generated substantial interest. Time series join is a primitive operation that retrieves all pairs of correlated subsequences from two given time series. As the Pearson correlation coefficient, a measure of the correlation between two variables, has multiple beneficial mathematical properties, for example, the fact that it is invariant with respect to scale and offset, it is used to measure the correlation between two time series. Considering the need to analyze big time series data, we focus on the study of scalable and distributed techniques to process massive data sets. Specifically, we propose a parallel approach to perform time series joins using Spark, a popular analytics engine for large‐scale data processing. Our solution builds on (1) a fast method to compute the fast Fourier transform on the times series to calculate the correlation between two time series, (2) a lossless partition method to divide the time series into multiple subsequences and enable a parallel and correct computation of the join result, and (3) optimization techniques to avoid redundant computations. We performed extensive tests and showed that the proposed approach is efficient and scalable across different data sets and test configurations.
Priority‐based online flow scheduling for network throughput maximization in software defined networking
Authors: Liu Liang , Guo Songtao , Liu Guiyan , Zeng Yue
Published: December 2019

Data transmission in current networks is usually associated with strict priority enforcement for the purpose of quality of service (QoS). Under the case that priority flow requests are injected into the network sequentially without the information of future flow request arrivals, it is a challenging to achieve network throughput maximization for on‐line flow requests under the joint constraints of the flow's priority, bandwidth demand, and resource capacity. Software Defined Networking (SDN) can effectively solve the flow scheduling equilibrium problem between the priority of dynamic flow requests and the maximization of network throughput. Therefore, in this paper, we study on‐line flow request admission in SDN, the goal of which is to maximize the network throughput under the constraints of critical network bandwidth resources, flow priority, and bandwidth demands. First, we present the concept of flow routing cost and profit and a model to characterize the cost of using link resources and routing paths. Then, we propose an efficient on‐line priority flow scheduling algorithm (OPFSA) to solve priority flow request scheduling problem and analyze the competitive ratio of OPFSA. Our on‐line algorithm can reach throughput within
of the highest possible throughput that can be achieved by an off‐line algorithm, where n is the number of node in the network. Finally, experimental results demonstrate that compared with SHORTEST‐SC, our proposed algorithm can enhance the cumulative bandwidth about 9% and 40% when general network size is 30 and 170 nodes, respectively, and improve the throughput about 25% in Fat‐tree network when pod size is 4.
Association of physical performance with oral function in older women participating in community‐based health exercise programs
Authors: Miyoshi Sanae , Saito Ayumi , Shigeishi Hideo , Sugiyama Masaru
Published: December 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between physical performance and oral function in older women participating in community‐based physical and oral exercise programs.

Material and methods

We included 163 older women (mean age: 77.4 ± 8.6 years) who participated in weekly health programs in Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, from August to December 2018. Physical fitness was assessed using a handgrip strength test, a timed up and go test, a one‐leg standing time with eyes open test, and a 30‐s chair stand test (CS‐30). Tongue pressure, oral diadochokinesis, and dysphagia risk assessment for the community‐dwelling elderly were used to assess oral function.

Results

Participants were divided into women aged 65–74 years (younger group) and those aged ≥75 years (older group). There was no significant difference in oral function measures between the groups. A significant correlation was found between CS‐30 and oral diadochokinesis for /pa/, /ta/, and /ka/ (Spearman's rank correlation; /pa/: r = .234, p = .009; /ta/: r = .299, p = .001; and /ka/: r = .283, p = .002) in the older group. Multivariable analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between CS‐30 and /ta/ repetition in the older group (p = .016).

Conclusions

Oral function (i.e., tongue motor function) may be associated with physical performance (i.e., lower leg muscle strength) in women aged ≥75 years. Further study is necessary to clarify sex differences in oral function deterioration.
Market differentiation threshold and the relationship between corporate social responsibility and corporate financial performance
Authors: Lin Woon Leong , Law Siong Hook , Azman‐Saini W. N. W.
Published: December 2019

This study assesses the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on corporate financial performance (CFP) by using an innovative threshold estimation technique. We examine whether the CSR effect on CFP is varied with the distinct levels of market differentiation. The empirical analysis is based on a world automotive panel dataset for the period of 2011–2017. We unveil an inverted V‐shaped relationship between CSR and CFP and confirm that the increasing nonparametric regression line up to a certain threshold level indicates a positive effect on CFP, whereas a decreasing line indicates a negative effect. Hence, these findings support the idea that engagement in CSR can boost firm performance by incorporating with market differentiation, since higher firm performance is associated with strong differentiation (i.e., less substitutability), but CSR may not provide large benefits in firms with too high market differentiation.
The role of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration liquid‐based cytology in the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy
Authors: Xu Chuancai , Qin Lingyan , Lei Wei , Jiang Junhong , Ni Chongjun , Huang Jian'an
Published: December 2019

Background

Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) is a minimally invasive, reliable technique for sampling mediastinal lymph nodes (LNs). Liquid‐based cytology (LBC) is widely used for cervical cancer screening because it provides reliable and feasible results. The present study aimed to evaluate effectiveness of the combination of EBUS‐TBNA and LBC in the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Methods

A total of 602 LNs that were retrospectively analyzed were sampled in 442 patients who underwent EBUS‐TBNA between January 2014 and December 2016. The histopathological result of TBNA tissue or cell blocks was considered as the gold standard to evaluate diagnostic utility of LBC and conventional smears (CS) for the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Results

Of the 602 LNs, 265 were mediastinal LN metastases from lung cancer, four were lymphoma, and 333 were benign. The sensitivity of LBC and CS in the diagnosis of mediastinal LN metastases from lung cancer was 72.8% and 63%, respectively, and the specificity was 98.5% and 97%, respectively. The positive predictive values for LBC and CS were 97.5% and 94.4%, respectively, whereas the negative predictive values were 82.2% and 76.9%, respectively. The accuracy of LBC and CS was 88% and 83.7%, respectively. The diagnostic value of LBC was significantly higher than that of CS (P = .001).

Conclusions

The combination of EBUS‐TBNA and LBC is a highly reliable and feasible procedure that optimizes diagnostic utility for the diagnosis of lung cancer and mediastinal LN staging.
Rationale and design of the AFFIRM‐AHF trial: a randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial comparing the effect of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose on hospitalisations and mortality in iron‐deficient patients admitted for acute heart failure
Authors: Ponikowski Piotr , Kirwan Bridget‐Anne , Anker Stefan D. , Dorobantu Maria , Drozdz Jarosław , Fabien Vincent , Filippatos Gerasimos , Haboubi Teba , Keren Andre , Khintibidze Irakli , Kragten Hans , Martinez Felipe A. , McDonagh Theresa , Metra Marco , Milicic Davor , Nicolau José C. , Ohlsson Marcus , Parhomenko Alexander , Pascual‐Figal Domingo A. , Ruschitzka Frank , Sim David , Skouri Hadi , van der Meer Peter , Jankowska Ewa A.
Published: December 2019

Aims

Iron deficiency (ID) is a common co‐morbidity in heart failure (HF), associated with impaired functional capacity, poor quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality. Treatment with intravenous (i.v.) ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) has shown improvements in functional capacity, symptoms and quality of life in stable HF patients with reduced ejection fraction. The effect of i.v. iron supplementation on morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalised for acute HF (AHF) and who have ID has yet to be established. The objective of the present article is to present the rationale and design of the AFFIRM‐AHF trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02937454) which will investigate the effect of i.v. FCM (vs. placebo) on recurrent HF hospitalisations and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in iron‐deficient patients hospitalised for AHF.

Methods

AFFIRM‐AHF is a multicentre, randomised (1:1), double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial which recruited 1100 patients hospitalised for AHF and who had iron deficiency ID defined as serum ferritin <100 ng/mL or 100–299 ng/mL if transferrin saturation <20%. Eligible patients were randomised (1:1) to either i.v. FCM or placebo and received the first dose of study treatment just prior to discharge for the index hospitalisation. Patients will be followed for 52 weeks. The primary outcome is the composite of recurrent HF hospitalisations and CV mortality. The main secondary outcomes include the composite of recurrent CV hospitalisations and CV mortality, recurrent HF hospitalisations and safety‐related outcomes.

Conclusion

The AFFIRM‐AHF trial will evaluate, compared to placebo, the effect of i.v. FCM on morbidity and mortality in iron‐deficient patients hospitalised for AHF.
Highly Efficient and Uncommon Photoluminescence Behavior Combined with Multiple Dielectric Response in Manganese(II) Based Hybrid Phase Transition Compounds
Authors: Wu Ya‐Xing , Wang Chang‐Feng , Li Hui‐Hui , Jiang Fan , Shi Chao , Ye Heng‐Yun , Zhang Yi
Published: December 2019

A series of multifunctional photoluminescent materials, [pyrrolidinium]2MnBr4 (1), [N‐methylpyrrolidinium]2MnBr4 (2), and [N‐methylpyrrolidinium]MnBr3 (3), were obtained by means of regulating diverse organic cations and different coordination modes of inorganic metal ions. Interestingly, compounds 1, 2, and 3 exhibit different dielectric switching and relaxation behavior in the process of structural transformations. Furthermore, compounds 1, 2, and 3 possess intriguing photoluminescence properties. When subjected to UV light, tetrahedrally coordinated compound 1 shows extraordinarily strong green light emission with a high quantum yield of 51.41 %. By changing the organic cation, compound 2 exhibits an unusual orange emission under ultraviolet excitation, which is different from that of conventional tetrahedrally coordinated manganese‐based compounds. By the regulation of coordination modes of inorganic metal ions, octahedrally coordinated compound 3 emits bright red light with a high quantum yield of 36.76 %. This finding may open a new approach toward designing multifunctional photoluminescent materials.
Electrolysis phenomena in electrophoresis
Authors: Novotný Tomáš , Gaš Bohuslav
Published: December 2019

We present a new theoretical approach for calculating changes in the physico‐chemical properties of BGEs for measurements by CZE due to the electrolysis in electrode vials (vessels). Electrolysis is an inevitable phenomenon in any measurement in CZE. Water electrolysis, which occurs in most measurements, can significantly alter the composition of the BGE in electrode vials and in the separation capillary and has a negative influence on the robustness and quality of separations. The ability to predict changes in the composition of the BGE is important for evaluation of the suitability of the BGEs for repeating electrophoretic runs. We compared theoretically calculated changes in the physico‐chemical properties (pH, conductivity) with those measured using pH‐microelectrode and contactless conductivity detection of the BGE after the electrophoretic run. We confirmed the validity of our theoretical approach with a common BGE composed of acid‐base pair, where one constituent is fully dissociated while the second constituent is dissociated by only half, and with Good's buffer. As predicted by theoretical approach, the changes in the physico‐chemical properties of the Good's buffer after the electrophoretic run were several times lower than in the case of a common BGE composed of a weak acid – strong base pair.
Design, modeling, prototyping, and comparison of a low‐cost, small‐size, and accurate sensorless driver for switched reluctance motor
Authors: Siadatan Alireza , Torkaman Hossein , Rafie Mehran
Published: December 2019

A switched reluctance motor (SRM) is a low‐cost motor with a simple structure and variable speed industrial and home applications. This article presents the design, simulation, and development of a low‐cost, accurate, and small‐size sensorless driver for a 6/4 three‐phase SRM. In the algorithm, the (nonlinear) relation of the flux, current, and rotor (FCR) position is linearized to achieve a modified FCR model, in which the values of the most important points of the primary FCR are emphasized. The SRM parameters required for the design process are obtained using a 3D finite‐element method (FEM). The proposed method is simulated and then tested under different load and speed conditions. The results are compared with a conventional sensorless algorithm's results, and the reference data are obtained by a direct with‐sensor algorithm. The algorithm estimates the rotor position (error of 1.3%) between low to nominal speed of the selected SRM under both nominal and no‐load conditions. In comparison with the conventional algorithm, the proposed FCR model significantly reduces the calculation cost and memory demand by 66%. Finally, the proposed algorithm decreases the driver size and price by 64% and 85%, respectively.
Are Technological Developments Improving the Environmental Sustainability of Photovoltaic Electricity?
Authors: Blanco Carlos Felipe , Cucurachi Stefano , Peijnenburg Willie J. G. M. , Beames Alistair , Vijver Martina G.
Published: December 2019

Innovation in photovoltaics (PV) is mostly driven by the cost per kilowatt ratio, making it easy to overlook environmental impacts of technological enhancements during early research and development stages. As PV technology developers introduce novel materials and manufacturing methods, the well‐studied environmental profile of conventional silicon‐based PV may change considerably. Herein, existing trends and hotspots across different types of emerging PV technologies are investigated through a systematic review and meta‐analysis of life‐cycle assessments (LCAs). To incorporate as many data points as possible, a comprehensive harmonization procedure is applied, producing over 600 impact data points for organic, perovskite (PK), dye‐sensitized, tandem, silicon, and other thin‐film cells. How the panel and balance of system components affect environmental footprints in comparable installations is also investigated and discussed. Despite the large uncertainties and variabilities in the underlying LCA data and models, the harmonized results show clear positive trends across the sector. Seven potential hotspots are identified for specific PV technologies and impact categories. The analysis offers a high‐level guidance for technology developers to avoid introducing undesired environmental trade‐offs as they advance to make PV more competitive in the energy markets.
Depressurizing boreholes for mitigating large deformation of the main entry
Authors: Wang Meng , Zheng Dongjie , Shen Wenlong , Wang Xiangyu , Li Wenfeng
Published: December 2019

The main entries in longwall coal mine frequently encounter large deformation, depending on the stress environment. Depressurizing boreholes are applicable to reduce the large deformation; however, it is difficult to determine the proper parameters (diameter and spacing) for an effective implementation. This study aims to propose feasible design criteria for the quantification of those parameters. We first developed a rigorous numerical model, for a roadway in Zhangshuanglou coal mine, using the rock mechanical properties determined from extensive laboratory measurements and analyses. We then investigated the dependency of the stress transfer and roadway deformation on the ratio of borehole diameter and spacing (D/R and D/I). The symbols of D, R, and I represented the diameter, row spacing, and interspacing of the boreholes, respectively. We found that (a) D/R has to be between 1:6 and 1:2; and (b) D/I has to be between 1:6 and 1:4, for sufficient depressurization in the surrounding rocks. The optimized borehole diameter and spacing parameters were applied in the field where the deformation of roadway was significantly reduced. Finally, we proposed a criterion to determine those parameters of depressurization boreholes for application in other geological and mining conditions.
In Situ Reproductive Bioassay with Caged Gammarus fossarum (Crustacea): Part 2—Evaluating the Relevance of Using a Molt Cycle Temperature-Dependent Model as a Reference to Assess Toxicity in Freshwater Monitoring
Authors: Lopes Christelle , Chaumot Arnaud , Xuereb Benoit , Coulaud Romain , Jubeaux Guillaume , Quéau Hervé , François Adeline , Geffard Olivier
Published: December 2019

Active biomonitoring approaches are now recognized as relevant for monitoring water contamination and toxicity. Nevertheless, due to the confounding influence of variable and uncontrolled environmental conditions such as temperature, biological markers measured on transplanted individuals to assess water quality are difficult to interpret. The purpose of the present study is to propose a methodology for adapting a laboratory test of chronic sublethal toxicity based on the molting cycle of Gammarus fossarum to in situ assays. To this end, we 1) adapted the molt cycle temperature-dependent model developed in Part 1 (Chaumot et al. 2020, this issue) to the fluctuating temperatures measured in the field; 2) assessed the predictive power of our approach as a “reference value” from gammarids caged in 9 nonimpacted sites at different seasons; and 3) tested the relevance of our tool to interpret in situ reproductive bioassays from 5 upstream/downstream studies and a large-scale deployment in 12 sites. Our approach based on modeling the progress of gammarid molting cycle as a function of temperature appeared to be a relevant and robust tool for interpreting in situ observations in different environmental contexts in time and space. By avoiding using a “reference” or upstream situation as a baseline from which water quality could be assessed, this approach provides a real added value to water quality diagnosis in biomonitoring programs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:678–691. © 2019 SETAC
Application of network security penetration technology in power internet of things security vulnerability detection
Authors: Chen Ze , Zuo Xiaojun , Dong Na , Hou Botao
Published: December 2019

The emergence of network penetration attacks makes network security problems more and more prominent. To better detect network penetration attacks, this article first proposes an attack detection method based on ant colony classification rules mining algorithm based on swarm intelligence theory. Classification rules perform pattern matching to detect attack behavior. Second, the quantitative problem in the evaluation mechanism of power internet security vulnerability is analyzed. The addition and deletion of power internet of things (IoT) security assessment elements introduces a probabilistic computing model, improves the vulnerability assessment mechanism of power object networks, and solves the problem of power object network security and quantitative computing. Finally, after performing a series of preprocessing on the dataset, using the above method to find the classification rule or classification center, respectively, perform pattern matching or similarity calculation, and finally obtain the attack detection result. A series of evaluation functions are established in the experiment, and the experimental results are compared with other related algorithms. The results show that the method can effectively detect network penetration attacks and IoT security vulnerabilities, and the effectiveness of attack detection methods is greatly improved.