bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum profile of cytokines and their genetic variants in metabolic syndrome and healthy subjects: a comparative study
Authors: Zafar Uzma , Khaliq Saba , Ahmad Hafiz Usman , Lone Khalid Pervaiz
Published: January 2019

Aim: To identify genetic variants in promoter areas of IL-6 -174 G>C and TNF-α -308 G>A in metabolic syndrome (Met S) and controls and associate them with Met S and serum cytokine levels.

It was a cross-sectional study, including 224 cases of Met S and 200 controls. A fasting blood sample was taken and biochemical parameters including serum glucose, insulin, lipid profile, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) were measured. Restriction fragment length polymorphism was used to identify the genetic variants of IL-6 and TNF-α. Serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and insulin resistance were significantly higher in cases than the controls. IL-6 showed significant positive correlation with HOMA-IR and TNF-α. CC genotype of IL-6 was associated with the increased risk of Met S (P=0.016, OR for CC vs GC+GG = 2.33, CI: 1.15–4.71). There was no significant difference of TNF-α genotypes between the cases and the controls. Serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in AA and CC genotypes of TNF-α (-308 G>A) and IL-6 (-174 G>C) as compared with the GG (P=0.00 and P=0.001). Significant correlation of IL-6 with TNF-α and insulin resistance was observed that may provide us a therapeutic target for preventing metabolic derangements from insulin resistance.
Association of IL-6, IL-8, MMP-13 gene polymorphisms with knee osteoarthritis susceptibility in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Sun Gang , Ba Cheng-Lei , Gao Ren , Liu Wenqing , Ji Qiang
Published: January 2019

Objective: To identify the association between the interleukin (IL) 6 (IL-6) rs1800795 (-174 G>C), IL-8 rs4073 (-251T>A), and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) rs2252070 (-77G>A) gene polymorphisms and knee osteoarthritis (KOA) susceptibility in the Chinese Han population. Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from a total of 400 KOA patients and 400 healthy subjects. Sanger sequencing was performed to determine the genotypes of the IL-6 rs1800795 (-174 G/C), IL-8 rs4073 (-251A/T), and MMP-13 rs2252070 (-77A/G) loci. The mRNA expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, and MMP-13 in osteoblasts and the protein expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, and MMP-13 in the synovial fluids of KOA patients were analyzed. Results: The recessive model of IL-6 rs1800795 locus was found to be associated with KOA risk (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.657, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.396–1.866, P<0.001). The IL-8 rs4073 locus dominant and recessive model showed no significant association with KOA risk (P>0.05). The dominant and recessive models of the MMP-13 rs2252070 locus showed higher risk for developing KOA (dominant model: adjusted OR = 1.271, 95%CI = 1.095–1.480, P=0.001; recessive model: adjusted OR = 1.361 95%CI = 1.151–1.569, P<0.001). The G>C mutation in IL-6 rs1800795 and the G>A mutation in MMP-13 rs2252070 were associated with significantly higher KOA disease severity. The G>C mutation in the IL-6 rs1800795 locus was associated with up-regulation of IL-6 expression. The G>A mutation in the MMP-13 rs2252070 locus was associated with up-regulation of MMP-13 expression. Conclusion: The IL-8 rs4073 (-251T>A) mutation was not associated with KOA susceptibility. The IL-6 rs1800795 (-174 G>C) and MMP-13 rs2252070 (-77G>A) mutations were associated with KOA susceptibility, increased disease severity, and up-regulation of IL-6 and MMP-13 expression levels.
ADAM8 in invasive cancers: links to tumor progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance
Authors: Conrad Catharina , Benzel Julia , Dorzweiler Kristina , Cook Lena , Schlomann Uwe , Zarbock Alexander , Slater Emily P. , Nimsky Christopher , Bartsch Jörg W.
Published: January 2019

Ectodomain shedding of extracellular and membrane proteins is of fundamental importance for cell–cell communication in neoplasias. A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase (ADAM) proteases constitute a family of multifunctional, membrane-bound proteins with traditional sheddase functions. Their protumorigenic potential has been attributed to both, essential (ADAM10 and ADAM17) and ‘dispensable’ ADAM proteases (ADAM8, 9, 12, 15, and 19). Of specific interest in this review is the ADAM proteinase ADAM8 that has been identified as a significant player in aggressive malignancies including breast, pancreatic, and brain cancer. High expression levels of ADAM8 are associated with invasiveness and predict a poor patient outcome, indicating a prognostic and diagnostic potential of ADAM8. Current knowledge of substrates and interaction partners gave rise to the hypothesis that ADAM8 dysregulation affects diverse processes in tumor biology, attributable to different functional cores of the multidomain enzyme. Proteolytic degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, cleavage of cell surface proteins, and subsequent release of soluble ectodomains promote cancer progression via induction of angiogenesis and metastasis. Moreover, there is increasing evidence for significance of a non-proteolytic function of ADAM8. With the disintegrin (DIS) domain ADAM8 binds integrins such as β1 integrin, thereby activating integrin signaling pathways. The cytoplasmic domain is critical for that activation and involves focal adhesion kinase (FAK), extracellular regulated kinase (ERK1/2), and protein kinase B (AKT/PKB) signaling, further contributing to cancer progression and mediating chemoresistance against first-line therapies. This review highlights the remarkable effects of ADAM8 in tumor biology, concluding that pharmacological inhibition of ADAM8 represents a promising therapeutic approach not only for monotherapy, but also for combinatorial therapies.
Quantifying the bearing surface wear of retrieved hip replacements
Authors: Bergiers Sean , Hothi Harry , Richards Robin , Henckel Johann , Hart Alister
Published: January 2019

Accurate quantification of bearing material loss from retrieved metal‐on‐metal (MOM) hip replacements is key to understanding their failure. Geometric methods are currently the only means of estimating volumetric wear from retrieved implants and numerous contrasting approaches to obtain these measures have been published. Data collection strategies have been thoroughly discussed and refined to minimise the effect of error incurring factors; however, there is an opportunity to optimise the current methods of estimating the pre‐wear geometry and, therefore, improve the accuracy of wear volume measurements. An automated analysis strategy to quantify volumetric wear is proposed in this study, which utilises the entire bearing surface to determine the implants pristine geometry. This involves the iterative removal of geometrically effected data points to optimise the fit and size of a perfect sphere. Once fitted, this reference geometry is compared with the measured data, in its entirety, to calculate the volume change representative of the quantity of material lost. Improving the reliability of this parameter could influence the care of a million patients that remain with MOM hip implants. Rigorous validation of this method will dominate future work, ensuring that the accuracy and reliability of this approach are sufficient to provide clinically meaningful data.
Ultra‐wide band bowtie slot waveguide antenna array for SAR application
Authors: Wang Nan , Ou Naiming , Wang Pei , Wang Robert
Published: January 2019

An ultra‐wide bandwidth, high‐efficiency, small‐size and low‐profile waveguide antenna is presented in this study. To extend the bandwidth without increasing the antenna size, the bowtie shape slot and the stepped square coaxial transition in a ridged waveguide cavity are utilised. The proposed antenna is well suited to use as an element for the phased array with the wide‐angle scanning capability, and such array is a good candidate for the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) application. The development of an active solid phased array (ASPA) utilising bowtie slot waveguide antenna as the element is presented to illustrate the design procedure. The proposed ASPA is fabricated and the measured results are provided to demonstrate that the proposed array has good performance in field pattern and impedance matching over the full X‐band (8–12 GHz). The ASPA's operating frequency band is cantered at 10 GHz with bandwidth 40%. This ASPA has been integrated into the latest SAR system with the maximum ground resolution of 0.05 m, and the SAR image is also provided at the end of this study.
Characteristic investigation of MMC‐HVDC system under internal AC bus fault conditions
Authors: Ma Shuo , Xu Jianyuan , Wu Guannan , Wang Yuxiao , Song Yi , Yu Gaole , Liu Ziyi
Published: January 2019

In order to ensure the high‐efficient and stable operation of the MMC‐HVDC transmission system, it is necessary to analyse the failure mode and failure mechanism of MMC‐HVDC in detail. First, this article briefly introduced the MMC‐HVDC system working principle. Then, we deeply analyse characteristic investigation under internal AC bus fault including single‐phase ground fault and two‐phase short circuit fault. It is proved theoretically that when asymmetrical fault occurs in AC bus, negative sequence components will appear in the system and cause double frequency fluctuations in the active power. Finally, a simulation model of modular multilevel converter DC transmission is built in the PSCAD/EMTDC electromagnetic transient simulation platform, which validates the correctness of the theoretical derivation, and provides a basis for the research of system protection strategy.
Economic dispatch of distribution network with inn for electric vehicles and photovoltaic
Authors: Zhao Zhiyu , Wang Keyou , Li Guojie , Jiang Xiuchen , Wang Xingang
Published: January 2019

Inn for electric vehicles (EVs) and photovoltaic (PV) is a typical integration of EVs locally consuming renewable energy sources (RES), with features of EV charging, energy storage, and RES consumption. In the existing research works, scholars focus on the energy storage system (ESS) as a medium to charge EVs and send back the power to the utility grid and alleviating the information asymmetry between EV owners and grid dispatching agencies with lower costs of distribution network. In this study, a mixed operational mode based on inn for EV and PV with a replaceable EV battery is analysed. The fragmented energy transferring can shift the load more effectively, balance fluctuation of RES, of great significance to optimise the operation of distribution network system. In summary, a comprehensive model of power flow in distribution network with inn for EV and PV is proposed. Based on an improved IEEE 33‐node case, the effects of fragmented energy management mode are analysed. Numerical results show that replacing the full‐charged battery for EV is more effective for peak load time‐shifting and improving consuming of RES power based on the interaction among RES, ESS, and the replaceable EV battery.
Starspot rotation rates versus activity cycle phase: Butterfly diagrams ofKeplerstars are unlike that of the Sun
Authors: Nielsen M. B. , Gizon L. , Cameron R. H. , Miesch M.
Published: January 2019

Context. During the solar magnetic activity cycle the emergence latitudes of sunspots change, leading to the well-known butterfly diagram. This phenomenon is poorly understood for other stars since starspot latitudes are generally unknown. The related changes in starspot rotation rates caused by latitudinal differential rotation can, however, be measured.

Aims. Using the set of 3093Keplerstars with measured activity cycles, we aim to study the temporal change in starspot rotation rates over magnetic activity cycles, and how this relates to the activity level, the mean rotation rate of the star, and its effective temperature.

Methods. We measured the photometric variability as a proxy for the magnetic activity and the spot rotation rate in each quarter over the duration of theKeplermission. We phase-folded these measurements with the cycle period. To reduce random errors, we performed averages over stars with comparable mean rotation rates and effective temperature at fixed activity-cycle phases.

Results. We detect a clear correlation between the variation of activity level and the variation of the starspot rotation rate. The sign and amplitude of this correlation depends on the mean stellar rotation and – to a lesser extent – on the effective temperature. For slowly rotating stars (rotation periods between 15 − 28 days), the starspot rotation rates are clearly anti-correlated with the level of activity during the activity cycles. A transition is observed around rotation periods of 10 − 15 days, where stars with an effective temperature above 4200 K instead show positive correlation.

Conclusions. Our measurements can be interpreted in terms of a stellar “butterfly diagram”, but these appear different from that of the Sun since the starspot rotation rates are either in phase or anti-phase with the activity level. Alternatively, the activity cycle periods observed byKeplerare short (around 2.5 years) and may therefore be secondary cycles, perhaps analogous to the solar quasi-biennial oscillations.
Observation and analysis of the spatial frequency response of an atomic magnetometer
Authors: Dong Hai-Feng , Yin Ling-Xiao , Li Ai-Xian , Zhao Nan , Chen Jing-Ling , Sun Ming-Jie
Published: January 2019

An atomic magnetometer is an ultra-high-sensitivity sensor that measures magnetic fields by means of atomic spin polarization. The spatial frequency response (SFR), which describes the spin polarizations corresponding to the field at different spatial frequencies, is an important property of atomic magnetometers. To characterize the SFR, one must generate a spatially varying field with scannable spatial frequencies (in units of mm−1), a concept that is similar to that in the time domain. However, it is much more difficult to generate a varying magnetic field spatially using traditional magnetic coils than it is to do so temporally. We generate an equivalent field Bysin⁡(ξx) with spatial frequency ξ from 0.14 mm−1 to 36.5 mm−1 by modulating the pump laser beam with a digital micromirror device and then obtain the SFR of a Cs atomic magnetometer by measuring the spin polarization of Cs at different spatial frequencies. The experimentally obtained SFR agrees well with the response calculated based on the Bloch equations and Fick’s second diffusion law. We also discuss a new definition of spatial resolution that can be used to characterize and compare the background spatial resolutions of different atomic magnetometers.
Solitary states in multiplex networks owing to competing interactions
Authors: Majhi Soumen , Kapitaniak Tomasz , Ghosh Dibakar
Published: January 2019

Recent researches in network science demonstrate the coexistence of different types of interactions among the individuals within the same system. A wide range of situations appear in ecological and neuronal systems that incorporate positive and negative interactions. Also, there are numerous examples of systems that are best represented by the multiplex configuration. The present article investigates a possible scenario for the emergence of a newly observed remarkable phenomenon named as solitary state in coupled dynamical units in which one or a few units split off and behave differently from the other units. For this, we consider dynamical systems connected through a multiplex architecture in the presence of both positive and negative couplings. We explore our findings through analysis of the paradigmatic FitzHugh-Nagumo system in both equilibrium and periodic regimes on the top of a multiplex network having positive inter-layer and negative intra-layer interactions. We further substantiate our proposition using a periodic Lorenz system with the same scheme and show that an opposite scheme of competitive interactions may also work for the Lorenz system in the chaotic regime.
Carrier reduction studies of type-II superlattice materials for very long wavelength infrared sensing
Authors: Haugan H. J. , Szmulowicz F. , Elhamri S.
Published: January 2019

There are continuing efforts to develop type-II superlattice (SL) materials for very long wavelength infrared (VLWIR) detector applications. However, the SLs have high residual electron background doping densities that depend on SL growth conditions, which lead to shorter minority carrier lifetime and lower performance parameters than theoretically predicted. In this study, the authors compare the technical advantages of using InAs/GaInSb over InAs/GaSb SL with respect to reducing the electron doping levels. Our temperature-dependent electrical transport measurements show that the InAs/GaInSb SL design has a lower electron density than the InAs/GaSb SL with the same bandgap and have electron densities (mobilities) on the order of the mid 1011 cm−2 (25 000 cm2/V s). Since small period InAs/GaInSb SLs also produce greater Auger recombination suppression for a given VLWIR gap than the large period InAs/GaSb SL, the InAs/GaInSb SL appears to be a better candidate for long lifetime IR materials for future very long wavelength infrared devices.
Theoretical analysis on optical frequency response of tunnel-junction transistor lasers operated in different configurations
Authors: Tung Chien-Ting , Chang Shu-Wei , Wu Chao-Hsin
Published: January 2019

The optical frequency responses of tunnel junction transistor lasers (TJTLs) in the presence of the intra-cavity photon-assisted tunneling (ICPAT) effect in different small-signal configurations are demonstrated. With the Franz-Keldysh (F-K) absorption, TLs can be modulated with the voltage across the base-collector junction in the reverse-bias regime. We simulate both the responses through current and voltage modulations of TJTLs based on the modified rate equations and small-signal model incorporating the F-K and ICPAT effects. The input electrical signal is transferred to both the base-collector junction voltage and base current through the equivalent circuit, leading to simultaneous modulations of voltage and current. It is shown that the resistance and capacitance of the base-collector tunnel-junction play essential roles in electrical transfer functions and modulation bandwidth. With the small-signal optical responses, the eye diagrams of TJTLs under current and voltage modulations are also calculated. The device can be potentially modulated at a speed over 20 Gb/s with clear eye-opening.
Smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) for complex fluid flows: Recent developments in methodology and applications
Authors: Ye Ting , Pan Dingyi , Huang Can , Liu Moubin
Published: January 2019

Computer modeling of complex fluid flows usually presents great challenges for conventional grid-based numerical methods. Smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) is a meshfree Lagrangian particle method and has special advantages in modeling complex fluid flows, especially those with large fluid deformations, fluid-structure interactions, and multi-scale physics. In this paper, we review the recent developments of SPH in methodology and applications for modeling complex fluid flows. Specifically, in methodology, some important issues including modified SPH particle approximation schemes for improving discretization accuracy, different particle regularization techniques, and various boundary treatment algorithms for solid boundary, free surface, or multiphase interface are described. More importantly, the SPH method with ideas from the dissipative particle dynamics for complex fluids in macro- or meso-scales is discussed. In applications, different complex fluid flows, including biological flows, microfluidics and droplet dynamics, non-Newtonian fluid flows, free surface flows, multiphase flows, and flows with fluid-structure interaction, are reviewed. Some concluding remarks in SPH modeling of complex fluid flows are provided.
Phononic heat transport in molecular junctions: Quantum effects and vibrational mismatch
Authors: Moghaddasi Fereidani Roya , Segal Dvira
Published: January 2019

Problems of heat transport are ubiquitous to various technologies such as power generation, cooling, electronics, and thermoelectrics. In this paper, we advocate for the application of the quantum self-consistent reservoir method, which is based on the generalized quantum Langevin equation, to study phononic thermal conduction in molecular junctions. The method emulates phonon-phonon scattering processes while taking into account quantum effects and far-from-equilibrium (large temperature difference) conditions. We test the applicability of the method by simulating the thermal conductance of molecular junctions with one-dimensional molecules sandwiched between solid surfaces. Our results satisfy the expected behavior of the thermal conductance in anharmonic chains as a function of length, phonon scattering rate, and temperature, thus validating the computational scheme. Moreover, we examine the effects of vibrational mismatch between the solids’ phonon spectra on the heat transfer characteristics in molecular junctions. Here, we reveal the dual role of vibrational anharmonicity: It raises the resistance of the junction due to multiple scattering processes, yet it promotes energy transport across a vibrational mismatch by enabling phonon recombination and decay processes.
Experimental conditions required for accurate measurements of electrical resistivity, thermal conductivity, and dimensionless figure of merit (ZT) using Harman and impedance spectroscopy methods
Authors: Beltrán-Pitarch Braulio , Prado-Gonjal Jesús , Powell Anthony V. , García-Cañadas Jorge
Published: January 2019

The Harman method is used extensively for the characterization of the dimensionless figure of merit ZT of thermoelectric (TE) materials and devices. However, its accuracy has often been questioned, since in many cases there are relatively high errors associated with the method. The impedance spectroscopy technique, which has recently been shown as a suitable tool to also characterize TE materials and devices, has some similarities with the Harman method and can also directly provide ZT. In order to obtain reliable measurements in both methods, there are some common critical points that must be taken into account, such as the requirement of fully adiabatic conditions and a negligible Joule effect. In this study, we have evaluated the effect of different experimental conditions in the accuracy of both methods using a sample with known TE properties. Our analysis has led to the identification of different sources of errors and other issues that have not been clearly identified to date that can lead to inaccurate results, namely, the need of a homogeneous Peltier effect at the junctions, problems arising from the use of Ag paint, and the selection of the right value for the current perturbation applied to the system. These problems and sources of errors need to be identified and carefully considered if accurate results are to be obtained.
Application of fractional calculus to combined modified function projective synchronization of different systems
Authors: El-Dessoky M. M. , Khan M. A.
Published: January 2019

This paper presents the analysis of fractional order dynamical system of combined modified function projective synchronization of different systems. Initially, we formulate the model in fractional order and then investigate their associated properties. We then investigate the chaotic behavior of different systems by considering the fractional order parameter. To obtain the simulation results of the models, we use the Runge-Kutta order four scheme and Adams-Bashforth scheme. The obtained results are discussed in detail for the various values of the fractional order parameters. The obtained graphical results reveal the significance of the fractional order modeling.
Analysis of residual stress around a Berkovich nano-indentation by micro-Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ma Lulu , Xing Huadan , Ding Qi , Han Yuetao , Li Qiu , Qiu Wei
Published: January 2019

Nano-indentation is a destructive measurement that introduces non-uniform residual stress around each nano-indentation. Herein, the residual stress distribution around a Berkovich nano-indentation on (001)- and (111)-plane silicon was studied by micro-Raman mapping. All of the in-plane stress state components around the indentation were obtained specifically for the (001)- and (111)-plane silicon based on the expanding cavity model and the Raman-mechanical relationship. Calculating the distribution regularity of the residual stress, the effect of different crystal planes and crystal orientations was further analyzed. Finally, the stress near the vertex of the indentation was revised owing to the crack.
Two-body intermolecular potentials from second virial coefficient properties
Authors: Sadus Richard J.
Published: January 2019

A method is reported that enables second virial coefficient properties to be used to obtain relatively simple two-body intermolecular potentials. Generic n-m Lennard-Jones/Mie potentials are transformed into two-body potentials for neon, argon, krypton, and xenon. Comparison with results from highly accurate ab initio potentials indicates good agreement. A complete potential for real fluids is obtained by combining the two-body potentials with a density-dependent term for three-body interactions. Vapor-liquid equilibria molecular simulation data for the new potentials are compared with the experiment, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the two- and three-body contributions. The combination of the two-body 10-8 Lennard-Jones/Mie potential and three-body term is a good overall choice for the noble gases.
On the hysteresis in fireball formation and extinction
Authors: Scheiner Brett , Beving Lucas , Baalrud Scott D.
Published: January 2019

A model is proposed to explain hysteresis observed in fireball formation and extinction as electrode bias is varied in partially ionized plasmas. Formation is predicted after a sufficiently deep potential well for electrons is established in the electron sheath of the electrode. Under the experimental conditions considered, once the fireball forms, the plasma potential rapidly increases, resulting in electrons being only lost to the electrode. Previous predictions suggest that once formed, the fireball double layer must maintain a potential close to the ionization potential of the neutral gas to remain in a steady state. In this paper, it is predicted that changes in electrode bias after formation result in a corresponding change in the fireball size and plasma potential. This change in plasma potential allows the double layer potential to be maintained at biases both above and below the electrode bias at onset. The fireball extinguishes when the required double layer potential can no longer be maintained with the balance of current loss of the bulk plasma. These predictions are tested experimentally and are found to be in good agreement with the measurements.
Finite-time stability analysis of fractional differential systems with variable coefficients
Authors: Zhang Fengrong , Qian Deliang , Li Changpin
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we study finite-time stability of fractional differential systems with variable coefficients, which includes the homogeneous and nonhomogeneous delayed cases. Based on the theories of fractional differential equations, we obtain three theorems on the finite-time stability, which give some sufficient conditions on finite-time stability, respectively, for homogeneous systems without and with time delay and for the nonhomogeneous system with time delay.

This article is being retracted effective 25 June 2019.
Failure to eliminate a phosphorylated glucose analog leads to neutropenia in patients with G6PT and G6PC3 deficiency
Authors: Veiga-da-Cunha Maria , Chevalier Nathalie , Stephenne Xavier , Defour Jean-Philippe , Paczia Nicole , Ferster Alina , Achouri Younes , Dewulf Joseph P. , Linster Carole L. , Bommer Guido T. , Van Schaftingen Emile
Published: January 2019

Significance

Neutropenia presents an important clinical problem in patients with G6PC3 or G6PT deficiency, yet why neutropenia occurs is unclear. We discovered that G6PC3 and G6PT collaborate to dephosphorylate a noncanonical metabolite (1,5-anhydroglucitol-6-phosphate; 1,5AG6P) which is produced when glucose-phosphorylating enzymes erroneously act on 1,5-anhydroglucitol, a food-derived polyol present in blood. In patients or mice with G6PC3 or G6PT deficiency, 1,5AG6P accumulates and inhibits the first step of glycolysis. This is particularly detrimental in neutrophils, since their energy metabolism depends almost entirely on glycolysis. Consistent with our findings, we observed that treatment with a 1,5-anhydroglucitol-lowering drug treats neutropenia in G6PC3-deficient mice. Our findings highlight that the elimination of noncanonical side products by metabolite-repair enzymes makes an important contribution to mammalian physiology.
Impoliteness and the moral order in online gaming
Authors: Lambert Graham Sage
Published: January 2019

In recent years, eSports, online gaming, and live computer game streaming have grown into a global, multi-million dollar industry. In the context of online gaming, however, there is a prevailingmoral order(Kádár 2017) that allows and perhaps even encourages impoliteness against female gamers, positioning them as inferior, unwelcome, or peripheral. Drawing from a corpus of over 150 hours of live game streams and concurrent open-forum chat, this paper identifies rituals and tropes (such as spam and banter) that reinforce gendered practices as they relate to the moral order in the online gaming setting. It then explores strategies used by one female gamer to manipulate the expectations of the online gaming medium and its hegemonic notions of femininity. In this way, she can resist a moral order which positions her as disempowered, and thereby gain social capital within the community.
The meta-conventionalisation and moral order of e-practices
Authors: Kádár Dániel Z. , Fukushima Saeko
Published: January 2019

This paper overviews the phenomenon of the meta-conventionalisation of interpersonal practices in the context of computer-mediated communication. The term ‘meta-conventionalisation’ refers to the coding of the conventional interpersonal practices of a particular group, or various groups, in the form of entertainment as films and novels. The word ‘meta’ refers to the fact that such pieces of artwork narrate a set of conventional practices from a quasi-observer point of view, without involving their audience in these practices as language users – in this sense they are different from good practice guides (typically described as ‘netiquette, in the context of e-pragmatics), which assume that readers will internalise the practices they describe. Meta-conventionalisation has been an understudied phenomenon, in spite of representing an important aspect of our daily lives. We illustrate how this phenomenon operates by examining a Japanese case study: a popular novel which features the online interactions of a group of otaku, that is, asocial young people who lock themselves up and interact in highly specific ways.
Cell biology and mechanopathology of laminopathic cardiomyopathies
Authors: Miroshnikova Yekaterina A. , Hammesfahr Tim , Wickström Sara A.
Published: January 2019

Miroshnikova, Hammesfahr, and Wickström illustrate the complex cell biological changes observed in cells of patients with Lamin A/C cardiomyopathies.
Final report on force key comparison APMP.M.F-K2.a and APMP.M.F-K2.b (50 kN and 100 kN)
Authors: Park Yon-Kyu , Sawi Muktar , Osman Seif M , Titus S S K , Lee Shih Mean , Leung Raymond , Ha Pham Thanh , Chen Sheng-Jui , Chaemthet Kittipong , Hafid  , Bangi Josephat O , Zhang Zhimin , Ueda Kazunaga
Published: January 2019

This report gives the results of the APMP.M.F-K2.a and APMP.M.F-K2.b key comparison in 50 kN and 100 kN force range. This regional key comparison was conducted under the Asia Pacific Metrology Program (APMP) to establish a link to the global CCM.F-K2 (http://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/0026-1394/49/1A/07002/meta) key comparison.

13 laboratories participated in this key comparison. The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) served as the pilot laboratory. The National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ/AIST) and the National Metrology Institute (NIM) of China together with KRISS provided links to the CCM.F-K2.a and CCM.F-K2.b key comparison. Two pairs of force transducers of 50 kN and 100 kN nominal capacities were circulated among the participants in a star formation.

The final results suggest that the nominal 50 kN force generated at one laboratory and 100 kN force at another laboratory may be different from the CCM.F-K2 key comparison reference value.

KEY WORDS FOR SEARCH

Force, 50 kN, 100 kN, APMP

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Report on key comparison CCQM-K138: determination of aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and total AFs) in dried fig
Authors: Bilsel Mine , Goren Ahmet C , Gokcen Taner , Gunduz Simay , Koch Mathias , Kakoulides, Elias , Giannikopoulou Panagiota , Wai-tong Gary Tang , Chan Andy , Kneeteman Estela , Mugenya Isaac , Murııra Geoffrey , Boonyakong Cheerapa , Fernandes-Whaley Maria , Krylov, Anatoliy , Mikheeva Alena
Published: January 2019

Nine NMI/DI participated in the CCQM Organic Analysis WG Track C Key Comparison CCQM-K138 Determination of aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and Total AFs) in Dried Fig. Participants were requested to evaluate the mass fractions expressed in ng/g units, of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2 and total aflatoxin in a dried fig. Aflatoxins are part of the mycotoxin family of contaminants which are a major issue for the food production industry internationally.

The CCQM-K138 results ranged from 5.17 to 7.27 ng/g with an %RSD of 10.47 for AFB1, ranging from 0.60 to 0.871 ng/g with an %RSD of 11.69 for AFB2, ranging from 1.98 to 2.6 ng/g with an %RSD of 10.36 for AFG1, ranging from 0.06 to 0.32 ng/g with an %RSD of 35.6 for AFG2, and ranging from 8.29 to 10.31 ng/g with an %RSD of 7.69 for Total AFs. All participants based their analyses on Liquid Chromatography, seven utilizing LC-MS/MS with labelled internal standards and two utilizing HPLC-FLD. Linear Pool estimators were used to assign the Key Comparison Reference Values (KCRVs) for B1, B2, G1, G2 and total aflatoxins.

Successful participation in CCQM-K138 demonstrates the following measurement capabilities in determining mass fraction of organic compounds, with molecular mass of 100 g/mol to 500 g/mol, having high polarity (pKow > -2), in mass fraction range from 0.05 ng/g to 500 ng/g in dried food matrices. It was noted that the results for CCQM-K138 represent a highly challenging set of measurands and involve very low level measurement of complex analytes in a situation where there is very limited availability of appropriate calibration materials. Due to the variability in results the degrees of equivalence for these analytes were reasonably large and this will need to be taken into consideration in the assessment of proposed CMCs.

KEY WORDS FOR SEARCH

Aflatoxins, AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2,Total AFs, LCMS/MS, HPLC, Dried Fig, mycotoxins, food contaminants

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Linking dose delivery accuracy and planning target margin in radiosurgery based on dose-volume histograms derived from measurement-guided dose reconstruction
Authors: Chan Mark K H , Leung Ronnie W K , Lee Venus W Y , Wong Matthew Y P , Chiang Chi-Leung , Law Gilbert M L , Blanck Oliver
Published: January 2019

In radiosurgery (SRS), the geometric uncertainties of machine-related delivery including image-guidance and hence the planning target volume (PTV) are often evaluated by the end-to-end gamma (γ) comparison that carries no information about the clinical relevance of deviations of individual SRS plans during delivery quality assurance (DQA). A proof-of-concept method was proposed to derive the PTV against both the plan- and the machine-specific delivery errors directly from the clinically relevant dose-volume histograms (DVHs) using measured-guided dose reconstruction (MGDR) during DQA. A liquid-filled detector array and a rotating phantom were used to measure sixteen arc-based radiosurgery treatments with 1 and 2 mm gross tumor volume (GTV)-to-PTV margins, producing MGDR-3D dose distribution on both the phantom and the patient CT for γ index and clinical DVH evaluations, respectively. The PTV was considered optimal when the MGDR showed the desired prescription dose coverage (V

pres
) of the GTV (100% in this study). Associations of the binary V

pres
outcomes (<or  =100%) of the GTV with the acceptance level of percent γ pass rate (γPR%) at 90 versus 95% were assessed. Further receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess the distance-to-agreement (DTA) and local dose difference (ΔD) criteria that may be suitable for treatment acceptance. From the MGDR, 100% GTV V

pres
was achieved in 68.8% and 100% of plans with 1 and 2 mm PTV, respectively. V

pres
outcomes were neither associated with γPR% at 1–2 mm DTA and 1%–3% ΔD nor the acceptance level for MGDR in the patient CT. ROC analysis shows statistically significant AUC values from 0.78–0.84 and 0.79–0.80 for MGDR phantom and patient doses, respectively. DQA by MGDR-DVH objectives offers the unique opportunity of direct assessment of the dose delivery accuracy and hence the optimal PTV without subject to the statistical correlation between γPR% and clinical metrics. Based on multi-criteria DVH objectives, clinical decision can be instantly made to adjust the treatment plan prescription.
Susceptibility of Cardiac Troponin Assays to Biotin Interference
Authors: Frame Ithiel J , Joshi Parag H , Mwangi Caroline , Gunsolus Ian , De Lemos James A , Das Sandeep R , Sarode Ravi , Balani Jyoti , Apple Fred S , Muthukumar Alagarraju
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To investigate biotin interference on three cardiac troponin (cTn) assays and demonstrate a method to overcome biotin interference.

Methods

cTn levels were measured in (1) plasma from healthy volunteers on 10-mg daily biotin supplementation mixed with a plasma with known elevated troponin, (2) plasmas with known elevated cTn after mixing in reagent biotin to simulate supplementation, and (3) biotin-spiked plasma specimens pretreated with streptavidin-agarose beads.

Results

Daily biotin ingestion (10 mg) and studies simulating daily biotin use resulted in significant interference in the Gen5 cardiac troponin T (cTnT) assay; the contemporary Gen 4 cTnT and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) assays were unaffected. The biotin interference threshold was 31, 315, and more than 2,000 ng/mL for Gen5 cTnT, cTnT, and hs-cTnI assays, respectively. Streptavidin pretreatment blocked biotin interference in cTn assays.

Conclusions

Biotin interference is possible at plasma concentrations achievable by ingestion of over-the-counter supplements that may lead to delayed or missed diagnosis of myocardial injury with the Gen5 cTnT assay.
Race, Representation, and Diversity in the American Association for Applied Linguistics
Authors: Bhattacharya Usree , Jiang Lei , Canagarajah Suresh
Published: January 2019

Since its inception, the American Association for Applied Linguistics (AAAL) has advocated for diversity within the organization and in the discipline. This culminated in the passing of the resolution, ‘Affirming Commitment to Promoting Diversity’ (2013), hailing racial and other kinds of diversity as ‘an asset within our community and a source of learning and opportunity’. Despite this resolution, AAAL faces continuing challenges in realizing diversity in practice. This study turns the spotlight on the uneven professional mobility and visibility of scholars of color (SOCs) within AAAL, examining historical trends in the representation of SOCs in structures of power within AAAL as well as in recognition of meritorious scholarship. The data were mined from annual conference programs and official websites, and analyzed using computer software. Our analysis reveals stark disparity in the representation of SOCs across both metrics. We finally argue that cultivating greater racial diversity within AAAL is imperative for highlighting issues of race and inequality in applied linguistics; in expanding our epistemological field; and, ultimately, sustaining our vibrancy and strength as a discipline.
Visual Object Perception in Premanifest and Early Manifest Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Coppen Emma M , Jacobs Milou , van der Zwaan Kasper F , Middelkoop Huub A M , Roos Raymund A C
Published: January 2019

Objective

In Huntington’s disease (HD), a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder, cognitive impairment in early disease stages mainly involves executive dysfunction. However, visual cognitive deficits have additionally been reported and are of clinical relevance given their influence on daily life and overall cognitive performance. This study aimed to assess visual perceptual skills in HD gene carriers.

Methods

Subtasks of the Visual Object and Space Perception battery and Groningen Intelligence Test were administered in 62 participants (18 healthy controls, 22 participants with a genetic confirmation of HD without symptoms, i.e., premanifest HD, and 22 participants with a genetic confirmation of HD with symptoms, i.e., manifest HD). Group differences in task performance were measured using analysis of covariance with and without correction for age. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed to examine which task best discriminated between groups and cut-off scores were provided.

Results

Manifest HD performed significantly worse compared to both controls and premanifest HD on all visual perceptional tasks. Premanifest HD did not differ in task performance from controls. Besides the Shape Detection, all tasks were robust in discriminating between groups. The Animal Silhouettes test was most accurate in discriminating manifest HD from premanifest HD (AUC = 0.90, SE = 0.048, p < .001).

Conclusion

Visual perceptual deficits are present in early manifest HD, especially an impaired recognition of animals and objects from sketched silhouettes, and not in premanifest HD. This suggests that decline in visual processing only occurs in clinical disease stages. The visual cognitive battery, especially the Silhouettes tasks used in this study is sensitive in discriminating manifest HD from premanifest HD and controls.
General Educational Development (GED) and Educational Attainment Equivalency for Demographically Adjusted Norms†
Authors: Hewitt Kelsey C , Cody Meghan W , Marker Craig D , Loring David W
Published: January 2019

Objective

To investigate whether the General Educational Development (GED) certificate should be considered equivalent to a standard 12-year high school education when performing demographic corrections on neuropsychological performance levels. If the GED certificate and high school diploma reflect comparable levels of educational achievement, then performance on the Test of Premorbid Function (TOPF) and selected WAIS-IV indices should not differ between groups.

Method

Archival neuropsychology data were reviewed to identify patients who either (1) did not complete high school and did not subsequently obtain a GED, (2) did not complete high school but subsequently obtained a GED, or (3) completed high school and did not obtain any further formal education. Most patients were programmatic referrals for epilepsy surgery evaluation, although referrals from the general neurology clinic were also included. The primary dependent measures were the TOPF and WAIS-IV Full Scale IQ (FSIQ).

Results

High school graduates obtained higher scores on the TOPF (p < .01, partial η2 = 0.16) and FSIQ (p < .01, partial η2 = 0.14) as compared to both GED subjects and subjects withdrawing from high school with no GED. The non-GED group and the GED group did not differ from each other.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that the GED is not equivalent to a standard 12-year high school education when characterizing educational background. Although these data do not address what the appropriate year equivalent should be for the GED when adjusting performance for educational background, using 12 years will likely identify more areas of neuropsychological weakness simply by suggesting higher levels of premorbid ability.
Microdermal Grafting for Color Regeneration of White Scars
Authors: Tsao Su-Ben , Yang Pei-jung , Lin Tsan-Shiun
Published: January 2019

White scars are defined in this study as mature hypopigmented surgical or traumatic scars whose color is much lighter than surrounding skin, to the extent that they appear white. These scars are often obvious and very difficult to treat or mask. This 3-year retrospective study reports the outcomes from 38 recipients of a new microdermal grafting surgery we developed, which introduces melanocytes into the white scar lesion to regenerate skin color. The study shares 18 years of experience with this procedure, describes the surgical steps, offers videos of the procedures, and presents 4 cases. Between September 2013 and December 2016, 38 patients (30 females; 8 males) underwent microdermal grafting for color regeneration of white scars in our plastic surgery clinic. Most patients, 78.9%, received 1 treatment, 15.8% received 2 treatments, and 5.3% received 3 treatments. Three lay judges were asked to assess percentage pigmentation recovery by comparing photographic images of patients’ preoperative and postoperative scars. Patients were also asked to assess, via a questionnaire, satisfaction and percentage improvement 1 year after surgical treatment. Lay judges found an average of 49% improvement after 1 session, 75% after 2 sessions, and 90% after 3 sessions. In total, 71.1% of the patients completed the questionnaire 1 year after the surgery. Average subjective improvement was 55% after 1 session, 88% after 2 sessions, and 95% after 3 sessions. The patient satisfaction rate was high. Microdermal grafting provides adequate treatment of white scars by regenerating melanocytes, although more than 1 session treatment may be needed.