bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the extent of fracture toughness transfer from 1D/2D nanomodified epoxy matrices to glass fibre composites
Authors: Domun Nadiim , Paton Keith R. , Blackman Bamber R. K. , Kaboglu Cihan , Vahid Samireh , Zhang Tao , Dear John P. , Kinloch Anthony J. , Hadavinia Homayoun
Published: January 2020

In this study, the effects of adding nanofillers to an epoxy resin (EP) used as a matrix in glass fibre-reinforced plastic (GFRP) composites have been investigated. Both 1D and 2D nanofillers were used, specifically (1) carbon nanotubes (CNTs), (2) few-layer graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), as well as hybrid combinations of (3) CNTs and boron nitride nanosheets, and (4) GNPs and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). Tensile tests have shown improvements in the transverse stiffness normal to the fibre direction of up to about 25% for the GFRPs using the ‘EP + CNT’ and the ‘EP + BNNT + GNP’ matrices, compared to the composites with the unmodified epoxy (‘EP’). Mode I and mode II fracture toughness tests were conducted using double cantilever beam (DCB) and end-notched flexure (ENF) tests, respectively. In the quasi-static mode I tests, the values of the initiation interlaminar fracture toughness, $$ G_{\text{IC}}^{\text{C}} $$GICC, of the GFRP composites showed that the transfer of matrix toughness to the corresponding GFRP composite is greatest for the GFRP composite with the GNPs in the matrix. Here, a coefficient of toughness transfer (CTT), defined as the ratio of mode I initiation interlaminar toughness for the composite to the bulk polymer matrix toughness, of 0.68 was recorded. The highest absolute values of the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness at crack initiation were achieved for the GFRP composites with the epoxy matrix modified with the hybrid combinations of nanofillers. The highest value of the CTT during steady-state crack propagation was ~ 2 for all the different types of GFRPs. Fractographic analysis of the composite surfaces from the DCB and ENF specimens showed that failure was by a combination of cohesive (through the matrix) and interfacial (along the fibre/matrix interface) modes, depending on the type of nanofillers used.
Temperature-controlled synthesis of hollow, porous gold nanoparticles with wide range light absorption
Authors: Depciuch J. , Stec M. , Maximenko A. , Baran J. , Parlinska-Wojtan M.
Published: January 2020

An easy synthesis method of hollow, porous gold nanoparticles (AuHP NPs) with controlled diameter and pores sizes and with a wide range of light absorbance (continuous between 500 and 900 nm) is presented together with the explanation of the nanoparticle formation mechanism. The NPs were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) combined with the selected area electron diffraction patterns, X-ray diffraction and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. TEM images showed that changing the synthesis temperature allows to obtain AuHP NPs with sizes from 35 ± 4 nm at 60 °C to 76 ± 8 nm at 90 °C. The effects of nanoscale porosity on the far- and near-field optical properties of the nanoparticles, as well as on effective conversion of electromagnetic energy into thermal energy, were applied in simulated photothermal cancer therapy. The latter one was simulated by irradiation of two cancer cell lines SW480 and SW620 with lasers operating at 650 nm and 808 nm wavelengths. The mortality of cells after using the synthesized AuHP NPs as photosensitizers is between 20 and 50% and increases with the decrease in the diameter of the AuHP NPs. All these attractive properties of the AuHP NPs make them find application in many biomedical studies.
Double-Arc Parallel Coordinates and its Axes re-Ordering Methods
Authors: Lu Liangfu , Wang Wenbo , Tan Zhiyuan
Published: January 2020

The Parallel Coordinates Plot (PCP) is a popular technique for the exploration of high-dimensional data. In many cases, researchers apply it as an effective method to analyze and mine data. However, when today’s data volume is getting larger, visual clutter and data clarity become two of the main challenges in parallel coordinates plot. Although Arc Coordinates Plot (ACP) is a popular approach to address these challenges, few optimization and improvement have been made on it. In this paper, we do three main contributions on the state-of-the-art PCP methods. One approach is the improvement of visual method itself. The other two approaches are mainly on the improvement of perceptual scalability when the scale or the dimensions of the data turn to be large in some mobile and wireless practical applications. 1) We present an improved visualization method based on ACP, termed as double arc coordinates plot (DACP). It not only reduces the visual clutter in ACP, but use a dimension-based bundling method with further optimization to deals with the issues of the conventional parallel coordinates plot (PCP). 2)To reduce the clutter caused by the order of the axes and reveal patterns that hidden in the data sets, we propose our first dimensional reordering method, a contribution-based method in DACP, which is based on the singular value decomposition (SVD) algorithm. The approach computes the importance score of attributes (dimensions) of the data using SVD and visualize the dimensions from left to right in DACP according the score in SVD. 3) Moreover, a similarity-based method, which is based on the combination of nonlinear correlation coefficient and SVD algorithm, is proposed as well in the paper. To measure the correlation between two dimensions and explains how the two dimensions interact with each other, we propose a reordering method based on non-linear correlation information measurements. We mainly use mutual information to calculate the partial similarity of dimensions in high-dimensional data visualization, and SVD is used to measure global data. Lastly, we use five case scenarios to evaluate the effectiveness of DACP, and the results show that our approaches not only do well in visualizing multivariate dataset, but also effectively alleviate the visual clutter in the conventional PCP, which bring users a better visual experience.
A Theory of Change for Improving Children’s Perceptions, Aspirations and Uptake of STEM Careers
Authors: Davenport Carol , Dele-Ajayi Opeyemi , Emembolu Itoro , Morton Richard , Padwick Annie , Portas Antonio , Sanderson Jonathan , Shimwell Joe , Stonehouse Jane , Strachan Rebecca , Wake Leanne , Wells Gary , Woodward John
Published: January 2020

There is concern about the low numbers and diversity of young people choosing careers and study subjects in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) at university and beyond. Many interventions aimed at addressing this issue have focused on young people aged 14+ years old. However, these interventions have resulted in little improvement in the numbers and diversity of young people progressing into STEM careers. The aim of this study is to ask “What are the affordances of a Theory of Change (ToC) for increasing the diversity and number of young people choosing a career in STEM post-18?” An innovative ToC is introduced which provides the theoretical underpinnings and context for the complex mix of interventions necessary to lead to a significant change in the number and diversity of those choosing STEM careers. Case studies of interventions developed using the ToC are presented. This approach, and associated ToC, is widely applicable across STEM, education and public engagement fields.
Implicit and Explicit Gender Stereotypes at the Bargaining Table: Male Counterparts’ Stereotypes Predict Women’s Lower Performance in Dyadic Face-to-Face Negotiations
Authors: Pardal Vaani , Alger Madeliene , Latu Ioana
Published: January 2020

In every major occupational group and at every level of educational attainment, U.S. women earn less than men (Carnevale et al. 2018). Besides a component explained by objective factors (e.g., hours worked, occupation, experience), the gender wage gap includes a large component unexplained by objective factors. This latter component may be attributed, at least in part, to factors such as gender stereotyping and discrimination. In one study, we focus specifically on negotiation partners’ gender stereotypes by investigating mock face-to-face negotiations around salary and benefits mimicking real world job settings. We specifically investigated whether U.S. women’s (n = 83) negotiation performance was predicted by their negotiation counterparts’ implicit and explicit gender stereotypes and whether these effects depended on the gender of the negotiation counterpart and their randomly assigned power role in the negotiation (recruiter vs. candidate). Overall, our findings suggest that regardless of women’s power role in negotiations, women’s lower performance is predicted by their male counterparts’ higher implicit stereotypes. For female recruiters, this effect is further qualified by their male counterparts’ explicit stereotypes. Our discussion explores how temporary power roles contribute to the expression of implicit and explicit gender stereotypes in negotiations. We also discuss practice implications for reducing negative effects of stereotypes on women’s negotiation performance.
Correction of Galileo Energetic Particle Detector, Composition Measurement System High Rate Data: Semiconductor Dead Layer Correction
Authors: Lee-Payne Z. , Kollmann P. , Grande M. , Knight T.
Published: January 2020

The Energetic particle detector (EPD) on-board the Galileo orbiter measured ions in the keV to MeV energy range in Jupiter’s equatorial plane, generating a unique data set. However, as a result of its time in the highly hostile Jovian radiation environment the EPD and its composition measurement system (CMS), suffered damage to its silicon semiconductor detectors. This resulted in misidentification of ion species and an underestimation of fluxes. We use in-flight measurements to understand the nature of the damage and how much it has affected the data. A method of mass and energy identification and reallocation was developed to identify and correct affected data thus improving the usability and accuracy of the Jovian data sets. This study aims to calculate the extent of the damage to the main CMS detector, $K_{ {T}}$KT; estimating the build-up of a non-sensitive dead layer on its surface. By the end of mission this dead layer has increased and is estimated to top out at $0.35 \pm 0.02$0.35±0.02 μm. A corrected set of data is produced, which fits better within expected boundaries, and will be made available for future use.
Elevated Type 1 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Availability in a Mouse Model of Huntington’s Disease: a Longitudinal PET Study
Authors: Bertoglio Daniele , Verhaeghe Jeroen , Korat Špela , Miranda Alan , Cybulska Klaudia , Wyffels Leonie , Stroobants Sigrid , Mrzljak Ladislav , Dominguez Celia , Skinbjerg Mette , Liu Longbin , Munoz-Sanjuan Ignacio , Staelens Steven
Published: January 2020

Impairment of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) results in altered glutamate signalling, which is associated with several neurological disorders including Huntington’s Disease (HD), an autosomal neurodegenerative disease. In this study, we assessed in vivo pathological changes in mGluR1 availability in the Q175DN mouse model of HD using longitudinal positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with the radioligand [11C]ITDM. Ninety-minute dynamic PET imaging scans were performed in 22 heterozygous (HET) Q175DN mice and 22 wild-type (WT) littermates longitudinally at 6, 12, and 16 months of age. Analyses of regional volume of distribution with an image-derived input function (VT (IDIF)) and voxel-wise parametric VT (IDIF) maps were performed to assess differences between genotypes. Post-mortem evaluation at 16 months was done to support in vivo findings. [11C]ITDM VT (IDIF) quantification revealed higher mGluR1 availability in the brain of HET mice compared to WT littermates (e.g. cerebellum: + 15.0%, + 17.9%, and + 17.6% at 6, 12, and 16 months, respectively; p < 0.001). In addition, an age-related decline in [11C]ITDM binding independent of genotype was observed between 6 and 12 months. Voxel-wise analysis of parametric maps and post-mortem quantifications confirmed the elevated mGluR1 availability in HET mice compared to WT littermates. In conclusion, in vivo measurement of mGluR1 availability using longitudinal [11C]ITDM PET imaging demonstrated higher [11C]ITDM binding in extra-striatal brain regions during the course of disease in the Q175DN mouse model.
Double outlet right ventricle, pulmonary stenosis and congenital mitral stenosis
Authors: Samuel Lincoln , Kurien George Varghese , Vazhakatt Joel Devasia , Koshy Sajan
Published: January 2020

A 4-year-old girl child was diagnosed with double outlet right ventricle (DORV), severe pulmonary stenosis, and supramitral ring. This case is presented to bring to light this rare association. Through this report, we aim to stress importance of assessing mitral apparatus on echocardiography during evaluation for situations like DORV and Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). The physiological differences in such situations as opposed to their isolated counterparts and special postoperative outcomes are also discussed.
Cryo-EM Studies of Virus-Antibody Immune Complexes
Authors: Li Na , Li Zhiqiang , Fu Yan , Cao Sheng
Published: January 2020

Antibodies play critical roles in neutralizing viral infections and are increasingly used as therapeutic drugs and diagnostic tools. Structural studies on virus-antibody immune complexes are important for better understanding the molecular mechanisms of antibody-mediated neutralization and also provide valuable information for structure-based vaccine design. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has recently matured as a powerful structural technique for studying bio-macromolecular complexes. When combined with X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM provides a routine approach for structurally characterizing the immune complexes formed between icosahedral viruses and their antibodies. In this review, recent advances in the structural understanding of virus-antibody interactions are outlined for whole virions with icosahedral T = pseudo 3 (picornaviruses) and T = 3 (flaviviruses) architectures, focusing on the dynamic nature of viral shells in different functional states. Glycoprotein complexes from pleomorphic enveloped viruses are also discussed as immune complex antigens. Improving our understanding of viral epitope structures using virus-based platforms would provide a fundamental road map for future vaccine development.
Graph-based data clustering via multiscale community detection
Authors: Liu Zijing , Barahona Mauricio
Published: January 2020

We present a graph-theoretical approach to data clustering, which combines the creation of a graph from the data with Markov Stability, a multiscale community detection framework. We show how the multiscale capabilities of the method allow the estimation of the number of clusters, as well as alleviating the sensitivity to the parameters in graph construction. We use both synthetic and benchmark real datasets to compare and evaluate several graph construction methods and clustering algorithms, and show that multiscale graph-based clustering achieves improved performance compared to popular clustering methods without the need to set externally the number of clusters.
Future developments in standardisation of cyber risk in the Internet of Things (IoT)
Authors: Radanliev Petar , De Roure David C. , Nurse Jason R. C. , Mantilla Montalvo Rafael , Cannady Stacy , Santos Omar , Maddox La’Treall , Burnap Peter , Maple Carsten
Published: January 2020

In this research article, we explore the use of a design process for adapting existing cyber risk assessment standards to allow the calculation of economic impact from IoT cyber risk. The paper presents a new model that includes a design process with new risk assessment vectors, specific for IoT cyber risk. To design new risk assessment vectors for IoT, the study applied a range of methodologies, including literature review, empirical study and comparative study, followed by theoretical analysis and grounded theory. An epistemological framework emerges from applying the constructivist grounded theory methodology to draw on knowledge from existing cyber risk frameworks, models and methodologies. This framework presents the current gaps in cyber risk standards and policies, and defines the design principles of future cyber risk impact assessment. The core contribution of the article therefore, being the presentation of a new model for impact assessment of IoT cyber risk.
Challenge in the new era: Translational medicine in gastrointestinal endoscopy and early cancer
Authors: Yu Yang , Yin Yan‐Hua , Min Li , Zhu Sheng‐Tao , Li Peng , Zhang Shu‐Tian
Published: January 2020

Translational medicine is a new medical model that has emerged over the past 20 years and is dedicated to bridging the gap between basic and clinical research. At the same time, the diagnosis and treatment of digestive diseases, especially gastrointestinal endoscopy, have been rapidly developed. The emergence of new techniques for gastrointestinal endoscopy has changed the therapeutic spectrum of some diseases and brought huge benefits to patients. Targeted therapy has positively affected the individualized and precise treatment of patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer. The construction of a standardized biobank provides a strong guarantee for clinicians to conduct translational medical research. Translational medicine has brought good development opportunities, but it also faces challenges. The training of translational medicine researchers and the transformation of educational models require sufficient attention for further development.
Diagnosis and treatment ofHelicobacter pyloriinfections in children and elderly populations
Authors: Peng Chao , Hu Yi , Ge Zhong‐Ming , Zou Quan‐Ming , Lyu Nong‐Hua
Published: January 2020

Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection is associated with various gastric and extra‐gastric diseases. Importantly, this infection is the strongest known risk factor for gastric cancer (GC).H. pylorieradication can effectively preventH. pyloriinfection‐associated diseases inH. pylori‐positive patients, including children and elderly subjects. However, a limited selection of antibiotics, a higher reinfection rate, and certain spontaneous clearance rates, to some extent, restrict the choice ofH. pyloritreatments in pediatrics. In addition, it is imperative to perform an accurate diagnosis ofH. pyloriinfection in children by determining the presence of theH. pyloriinfection and the underlying cause of symptoms. In elderly patients, poor tolerance to drugs and higher sensitivity to adverse effects are major concerns duringH. pyloritherapy. Recent studies have demonstrated thatH. pylorieradication could significantly lower the GC risk in the elderly population. The benefit and risk ofH. pylorieradication in elderly patients should be comprehensively considered and balanced. If available, susceptibility‐based tailored therapies may be preferable in eradicatingH. pylori. In addition, to increase the eradication rate and reduce adverse effects, new therapeutic strategies (e.g., probiotic supplementation, berberine supplementation, dual therapy) forH. pyloriinfection are being extensively investigated. The impact ofH. pylorieradication with antibiotics on the microbiota in children has been explored, but further high‐quality studies are crucial to delineate the extent ofH. pylorieradication affecting the microbial community in children. In this review, we summarize the current understanding ofH. pyloridiagnosis and treatment in children and the elderly population and aim to provide insights into the efficient management and treatment implementation in these populations.
Long non‐coding RNAs as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets in kidney disease
Authors: Zhou Qin , Chen Wei , Yu Xue‐Qing
Published: January 2020

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have critical roles in the development of many diseases including kidney disease. An increasing number of studies have shown that lncRNAs are involved in kidney development and that their dysregulation can result in distinct disease processes, including acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Understanding the roles of lncRNAs in kidney disease may provide new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities in the clinic. This review provides an overview of lncRNA characteristics, biological function and discusses specific studies that provide insight into the function and potential application of lncRNAs in kidney disease treatment.
Underweight, body image, and weight loss measures among adolescents in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hijji Talal M. , Saleheen Hassan , AlBuhairan Fadia S.
Published: January 2020

Background and Objective:

Adolescence is considered to be a pivotal point in which optimum nutrition and eating habits are developed. Although tackling the obesity epidemic has been much discussed, addressing the issue of underweight and body image is often neglected. This study was carried out to get a better understanding of underweight status among adolescents in Saudi Arabia, and exploring self-perceptions of body image and weight loss measures among underweight adolescents.

Methods:

Data from Jeeluna®, a national cross-sectional school-based survey were utilized. Jeeluna® assessed the health status and health-risk behaviors of adolescents in school through data obtained by a self-administered questionnaire, anthropologic measurements, and laboratory investigations.

Results:

A total of 12,463 adolescents participated. Eighteen percent of adolescent males and 12.4% of females were found to be underweight, representing 14.9% of adolescents collectively. Forty-five percent of underweight participants were happy with their weight. Underweight females between the age group of 10 and 14 years were the most likely to believe that they still need to lose weight (16.0%) followed by females aged 15–19 years (9.7%). Underweight females aged 10–14 years were also the group most likely to engage in purging (1.6%). Stepwise logistic regression found that the strongest association with being underweight was with having a lower household income (OR 2.0, CI 1.5–2.7) and having more than 5 siblings (OR 1.8, CI 1.5–2.3).

Conclusion:

Underweight status is prevalent among adolescents in Saudi Arabia and deserves more attention as a public health issue. Distorted body image and disordered eating behaviors exist, necessitating further investigation of underlying causes.
QUASICONFORMAL HARMONIC MAPPINGS BETWEEN DOMAINS CONTAINING INFINITY
Authors: KALAJ DAVID
Published: January 2020

Assume that $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FA}$ and $D$ are two domains with compact smooth boundaries in the extended complex plane $\overline{\mathbf{C}}$. We prove that every quasiconformal mapping between $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FA}$ and $D$ mapping $\infty$ onto itself is bi-Lipschitz continuous with respect to both the Euclidean and Riemannian metrics.
Interaction of recommended levels of physical activity and protein intake is associated with greater physical function and lower fat mass in older women: Kuopio Osteoporosis Risk Factor- (OSTPRE) and Fracture-Prevention Study
Authors: Sjöblom Samu , Sirola Joonas , Rikkonen Toni , Erkkilä Arja T. , Kröger Heikki , Qazi Sarang L. , Isanejad Masoud
Published: January 2020

The aim of the study was to investigate whether the interaction of physical activity (PA) and protein intake is associated with physical function (PF). The women from the Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Fracture Prevention Study (n 610) completed a questionnaire on lifestyle factors and PA and underwent PF and body composition measurements at baseline (BL) and over 3 years of follow-up (3y-FU). PA was categorised according to WHO cut-off PA = 0, 0 < PA < 2·5 and PA ≥ 2·5 h/week. Protein intake was calculated from the 3-d food record at baseline and categorised according to the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations <1·1 and ≥1·1 g/kg body weight (BW). The results showed in univariate ANOVA at the baseline and at the 3-year follow-up, women with high PA ≥ 2·5 h/week and protein intake ≥ 1·1 g/kg BW had higher grip strength adjusted for BMI, higher mean number of chair rises, faster mean walking speed, higher modified mean short physical performance battery score and lower mean fat mass compared with other interaction groups. High PA and protein intake were associated with lower BMI despite significantly higher energy intake. In conclusion, higher PA and protein intake interaction was associated with greater PF and lower fat mass, but the association with relative skeletal muscle index and muscle mass was inconclusive. The present study gives noteworthy information for preventing sarcopenia.
Catering and dividend policy: evidence from the Netherlands over the twentieth century
Authors: de Jong Abe , Fliers Philip , van Beusichem Henry
Published: January 2020

This article investigates the determinants of Dutch firms’ dividend policies in the twentieth century. We identify three distinct episodes and document shifts in dividend policies in the 1930s and 1980s, because firm managers cater to the changing preferences of shareholders. The first episode, prior to World War II, was characterised by dividends that were fixed contracts between shareholder and management and the payouts were mechanically determined by earnings. The second epoch of Dutch dividend policy, until the 1980s, was characterised by dividend smoothing. Dividends were still strongly related to earnings, but because of shareholder's preferences for stable dividend income, earnings changes are incorporated in dividends with a lag. Finally, dividend policy in the most recent episode is inspired by shareholder wealth maximisation, based on agency and signalling motives. In this period, dividends have become largely decoupled from earnings.
ROUGH INTEGERS WITH A DIVISOR IN A GIVEN INTERVAL
Authors: FORD KEVIN
Published: January 2020

We determine, up to multiplicative constants, the number of integers

$n\leq x$

that have a divisor in

$(y,2y]$

and no prime factor

$\leq w$

. Our estimate is uniform in

$x,y,w$

. We apply this to determine the order of the number of distinct integers in the

$N\times N$

multiplication table, which are free of prime factors

$\leq w$

, and the number of distinct fractions of the form

$(a_{1}a_{2})/(b_{1}b_{2})$

with

$1\leq a_{1}\leq b_{1}\leq N$

and

$1\leq a_{2}\leq b_{2}\leq N$

.
ON -GROUPS WITH AUTOMORPHISM GROUPS RELATED TO THE CHEVALLEY GROUP
Authors: BAMBERG JOHN , FREEDMAN SAUL D. , MORGAN LUKE
Published: January 2020

Let $p$ be an odd prime. We construct a $p$-group $P$ of nilpotency class two, rank seven and exponent $p$, such that $\text{Aut}(P)$ induces $N_{\text{GL}(7,p)}(G_{2}(p))=Z(\text{GL}(7,p))G_{2}(p)$ on the Frattini quotient $P/\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F7}(P)$. The constructed group $P$ is the smallest $p$-group with these properties, having order $p^{14}$, and when $p=3$ our construction gives two nonisomorphic $p$-groups. To show that $P$ satisfies the specified properties, we study the action of $G_{2}(q)$ on the octonion algebra over $\mathbb{F}_{q}$, for each power $q$ of $p$, and explore the reducibility of the exterior square of each irreducible seven-dimensional $\mathbb{F}_{q}[G_{2}(q)]$-module.
Evolution of the Charge Structure and Lightning Discharge Characteristics of a Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau Thunderstorm Dominated by Negative Cloud‐to‐Ground Flashes
Authors: Li Yajun , Zhang Guangshu , Zhang Yijun
Published: January 2020

The correlation between the charge structure evolution and lightning type and frequency for a multicell thunderstorm dominated by negative cloud‐to‐ground (CG) flash on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau was analyzed using observations from a three‐dimensional lightning very high frequency radiation source location system. The analysis results showed the following. (1) In the initial developing stage of the thunderstorm, each cell developed independently and presented an inverted dipole charge structure. As the thunderstorm developed into its mature stage, multiple cells merged, and the charge structure changed to a tripole structure. In the dissipation stage of each thunderstorm region, the charge structure reverted to an inverted dipole or a normal dipole. (2) When the extent of the charge region expanded, the upper and lower charge regions became uneven and asymmetric. (3) In the inverted dipole charge structure, negative CG flashes accounted for 77.2% of the total number of lightning flashes, whereas negative intracloud flashes accounted for only 22.8%. In the tripole charge structure, negative CG flashes, positive intracloud flashes, and negative intracloud flashes accounted for 62%, 21%, and 16%, respectively, of all lightning flashes. These results indicate that the middle negative charge region was the strongest layer of the thunderstorm, while the upper positive charge region was slightly stronger, and the lower positive charge region was the weakest. These findings also indicate that the relative intensity of the charge layers directly determined the lightning quantity and frequency.
Simulations of Winter Arctic Clouds and Associated Radiation Fluxes Using Different Cloud Microphysics Schemes in the Polar WRF: Comparisons With CloudSat, CALIPSO, and CERES
Authors: Cho Heeje , Jun Sang‐Yoon , Ho Chang‐Hoi , McFarquhar Greg
Published: January 2020

Key Points

Winter Arctic clouds simulated by the polar version of the Weather Research and Forecasting model are compared with satellite retrievals

The cloud amount and cloud top height of model simulations agree well with those of satellite retrievals

The downward longwave radiation at the surface shows realistic temporal variations, but is sensitive to the cloud microphysics scheme choice
N-glycosylated SGK196 suppresses the metastasis of basal-like breast cancer cells
Authors: Xu Ci , Zhang Meichao , Bian Lei , Li Yanyan , Yao Yuan , Li Dong
Published: January 2020

SGK196 is a protein O-mannose kinase involved in an indispensable phosphorylation step during laminin-binding glycan synthesis on alpha-dystroglycan (α-DG). However, the function of SGK196 in cancer diseases remains elusive. In the current study, we demonstrated that SGK196 is primarily modified by N-glycosylation in breast cancer (BC) cells. Furthermore, gain and loss-of-function studies showed that N-glycosylated SGK196 suppresses cell migration, invasion, and metastasis in BC, particularly in the basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) type. In addition, we found that SGK196 N-glycosylation performs the regulatory function through the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Collectively, our results show that N-glycosylated SGK196 plays suppression roles in BLBC metastases, therefore providing new insights into SGK196 function in BC.
Long-term outcomes of IMiD-based trials in patients with immunoglobulin light-chain amyloidosis: a pooled analysis
Authors: Warsame Rahma , LaPlant Betsy , Kumar Shaji K. , Laumann Kristina , Perez Burbano Gabriela , Buadi Francis K. , Gertz Morie A. , Kyle Robert A. , Lacy Martha Q. , Dingli David , Leung Nelson , Hayman Suzanne R. , Kapoor Prashant , Hwa Yi L. , Fonder Amie , Hobbs Miriam , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Kourelis Taxiarchis , Lust John , Russell Stephen J. , Zeldenrust Steven , Lin Yi , Muchtar Eli , Go Ronald S. , Vincent Rajkumar S. , Dispenzieri Angela
Published: January 2020

Rarity of light-chain amyloidosis (AL) makes randomized studies challenging. We pooled three phase II studies of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) to update survival, toxicity, and assess new response/progression criteria. Studies included were lenalidomide-dexamethasone (Len-Dex) (n = 37; years: 2004–2006), cyclophosphamide-Len-Dex (n = 35; years: 2007–2008), and pomalidomide-Dex (n = 29; years: 2008–2010) trial. Primary endpoint was hematologic response. Overall survival (OS) was calculated from registration to death and progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated from registration to progression or death. Hematologic, cardiac, and renal response/progression was assessed using the modern criteria. Analysis included 101 patients, with a median age of 65 years, 61% male, 37 newly diagnosed (ND), and 64 relapsed/refractory (RR). Median follow-up was 101 months (range 17–150) and 78% of patients died. OS and PFS for pooled cohort were 31 and 15 months, respectively. Forty-eight patients achieved a hematologic response; for ND, 10 patients (28%) achieved ≥VGPR (very good partial response) and 8 (14%) among the RR. Only cardiac stage was prognostic for OS. Common grade ≥3 toxicities were hematologic, fatigue, and rash, and were similar among studies. Hematologic and renal responses occurred more frequently and rapidly using modern response criteria; cardiac response was less frequent but occurred quickly. IMiDs can result in long progression-free intervals/survival with tolerable toxicities. The new response/progression criteria were rapid and allows for tailoring therapy.
Prox1-positive cells monitor and sustain the murine intestinal epithelial cholinergic niche
Authors: Middelhoff Moritz , Nienhüser Henrik , Valenti Giovanni , Maurer H. Carlo , Hayakawa Yoku , Takahashi Ryota , Kim Woosook , Jiang Zhengyu , Malagola Ermanno , Cuti Krystle , Tailor Yagnesh , Zamechek Leah B. , Renz Bernhard W. , Quante Michael , Yan Kelley S. , Wang Timothy C.
Published: January 2020

The enteric neurotransmitter acetylcholine governs important intestinal epithelial secretory and immune functions through its actions on epithelial muscarinic Gq-coupled receptors such as M3R. Its role in the regulation of intestinal stem cell function and differentiation, however, has not been clarified. Here, we find that nonselective muscarinic receptor antagonism in mice as well as epithelial-specific ablation of M3R induces a selective expansion of DCLK1-positive tuft cells, suggesting a model of feedback inhibition. Cholinergic blockade reduces Lgr5-positive intestinal stem cell tracing and cell number. In contrast, Prox1-positive endocrine cells appear as primary sensors of cholinergic blockade inducing the expansion of tuft cells, which adopt an enteroendocrine phenotype and contribute to increased mucosal levels of acetylcholine. This compensatory mechanism is lost with acute irradiation injury, resulting in a paucity of tuft cells and acetylcholine production. Thus, enteroendocrine tuft cells appear essential to maintain epithelial homeostasis following modifications of the cholinergic intestinal niche.
Publisher Correction: Eliminating blood oncogenic exosomes into the small intestine with aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles
Authors: Xie Xiaodong , Nie Huifang , Zhou Yu , Lian Shu , Mei Hao , Lu Yusheng , Dong Haiyan , Li Fengqiao , Li Tao , Li Bifei , Wang Jie , Lin Min , Wang Chaihung , Shao Jingwei , Gao Yu , Chen Jianming , Xie Fangwei , Jia Lee
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Ultra-thin van der Waals crystals as semiconductor quantum wells
Authors: Zultak Johanna , Magorrian Samuel J. , Koperski Maciej , Garner Alistair , Hamer Matthew J. , Tóvári Endre , Novoselov Kostya S. , Zhukov Alexander A. , Zou Yichao , Wilson Neil R. , Haigh Sarah J. , Kretinin Andrey V. , Fal’ko Vladimir I. , Gorbachev Roman
Published: January 2020

Control over the quantization of electrons in quantum wells is at the heart of the functioning of modern advanced electronics; high electron mobility transistors, semiconductor and Capasso terahertz lasers, and many others. However, this avenue has not been explored in the case of 2D materials. Here we apply this concept to van der Waals heterostructures using the thickness of exfoliated crystals to control the quantum well dimensions in few-layer semiconductor InSe. This approach realizes precise control over the energy of the subbands and their uniformity guarantees extremely high quality electronic transport in these systems. Using tunnelling and light emitting devices, we reveal the full subband structure by studying resonance features in the tunnelling current, photoabsorption and light emission spectra. In the future, these systems could enable development of elementary blocks for atomically thin infrared and THz light sources based on intersubband optical transitions in few-layer van der Waals materials.
Clinically accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease via multiplexed sensing of core biomarkers in human plasma
Authors: Kim Kayoung , Kim Min-Ji , Kim Da Won , Kim Su Yeong , Park Steve , Park Chan Beum
Published: January 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, affecting one in ten people aged over 65 years. Despite the severity of the disease, early diagnosis of AD is still challenging due to the low accuracy or high cost of neuropsychological tests and neuroimaging. Here we report clinically accurate and ultrasensitive detection of multiple AD core biomarkers (t-tau, p-tau181, Aβ42, and Aβ40) in human plasma using densely aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The closely packed and unidirectionally aligned CNT sensor array exhibits high precision, sensitivity, and accuracy, evidenced by a low coefficient of variation (<6%), a femtomolar-level limit of detection, and a high degree of recovery (>93.0%). By measuring the levels of t-tau/Aβ42, p-tau181/Aβ42, and Aβ42/Aβ40 in clinical blood samples, the sensor array successfully discriminates the clinically diagnosed AD patients from healthy controls with an average sensitivity of 90.0%, a selectivity of 90.0%, and an average accuracy of 88.6%.
Treacle controls the nucleolar response to rDNA breaks via TOPBP1 recruitment and ATR activation
Authors: Mooser Clémence , Symeonidou Ioanna-Eleni , Leimbacher Pia-Amata , Ribeiro Alison , Shorrocks Ann-Marie K. , Jungmichel Stephanie , Larsen Sara C. , Knechtle Katja , Jasrotia Arti , Zurbriggen Diana , Jeanrenaud Alain , Leikauf Colin , Fink Daniel , Nielsen Michael L. , Blackford Andrew N. , Stucki Manuel
Published: January 2020

Induction of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeats is associated with ATM-dependent repression of ribosomal RNA synthesis and large-scale reorganization of nucleolar architecture, but the signaling events that regulate these responses are largely elusive. Here we show that the nucleolar response to rDNA breaks is dependent on both ATM and ATR activity. We further demonstrate that ATM- and NBS1-dependent recruitment of TOPBP1 in the nucleoli is required for inhibition of ribosomal RNA synthesis and nucleolar segregation in response to rDNA breaks. Mechanistically, TOPBP1 recruitment is mediated by phosphorylation-dependent interactions between three of its BRCT domains and conserved phosphorylated Ser/Thr residues at the C-terminus of the nucleolar phosphoprotein Treacle. Our data thus reveal an important cooperation between TOPBP1 and Treacle in the signaling cascade that triggers transcriptional inhibition and nucleolar segregation in response to rDNA breaks.
Nano-based adsorbent and photocatalyst use for pharmaceutical contaminant removal during indirect potable water reuse
Authors: Fanourakis Sofia K. , Peña-Bahamonde Janire , Bandara Pasan C. , Rodrigues Debora F.
Published: January 2020

Increasing human activity, including commercial and noncommercial use of pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and agricultural products, has introduced new contaminants that can be challenging to remove with currently available technologies. Pharmaceuticals, in particular, can be especially challenging to remove from the water supply and can pose great harm to people and local ecosystems. Their highly stable nature makes their degradation with conventional water treatment techniques difficult, and studies have shown that even advanced treatment of water is unable to remove some compounds. As such, decontamination of water from pharmaceuticals requires the development of advanced technologies capable of being used in indirect and direct potable water reuse. In this review, we discuss pharmaceutical removal in indirect potable water treatment and how recent advancements in adsorption and photocatalysis technologies can be used for the decontamination of pharmaceutical-based emerging contaminants. For instance, new materials that incorporate graphene-based nanomaterials have been developed and shown to have increased adsorptive capabilities toward pharmaceuticals when compared with unmodified graphene. In addition, adsorbents have been incorporated in membrane technologies, and photocatalysts have been combined with magnetic material and coated on optical fibers improving their usability in water treatment. Advancements in photocatalytic material research have enabled the development of highly effective materials capable of degradation of a variety of pharmaceutical compounds and the development of visible-light photocatalysts. To understand how adsorbents and photocatalysts can be utilized in water treatment, we address the benefits and limitations associated with these technologies and their potential applicability in indirect potable water reuse plants.
Two-dimensional echocardiography after return of spontaneous circulation and its association with in-hospital survival after in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Song In-Ae , Cha Jun Kwon , Oh Tak Kyu , Jo You Hwan , Yoon Yeonyee E.
Published: January 2020

This retrospective cohort study investigated the association between in-hospital survival and two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography within 24 hours after the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in patients who underwent in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ICPR) after in-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest (IHCA). The 2D-echo and non-2D-echo groups comprised eligible patients who underwent transthoracic 2D echocardiography performed by the cardiology team within 24 hours after ROSC and those who did not, respectively. After propensity score (PS) matching, 142 and 284 patients in the 2D-echo and non-2D-echo groups, respectively, were included. A logistic regression analysis showed that the likelihood of in-hospital survival was 2.35-fold higher in the 2D-echo group than in the non-2D-echo group (P < 0.001). Regarding IHCA aetiology, in-hospital survival after cardiac arrest of a cardiac cause was 2.51-fold more likely in the 2D-echo group than in the non-2D-echo group (P < 0.001), with no significant inter-group difference in survival after cardiac arrest of a non-cardiac cause (P = 0.120). In this study, 2D echocardiography performed within 24 hours after ROSC was associated with better in-hospital survival outcomes for patients who underwent ICPR for IHCA with a cardiac aetiology. Thus, 2D echocardiography may be performed within 24 hours after ROSC in patients experiencing IHCA to enable better treatment.
Visualization of mucosal field in HPV positive and negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas: combined genomic and radiology based 3D model
Authors: Orosz Eva , Gombos Katalin , Petrevszky Nerina , Csonka David , Haber Istvan , Kaszas Balint , Toth Arnold , Molnar Krisztian , Kalacs Krisztina , Piski Zalan , Gerlinger Imre , Burian Andras , Bellyei Szabolcs , Szanyi Istvan
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study was to visualize the tumor propagation and surrounding mucosal field in radiography-based 3D model for advanced stage HNSCC and combine it with HPV genotyping and miRNA expression characterization of the visualized area. 25 patients with T1-3 clinical stage HNSCC were enrolled in mapping biopsy sampling. Biopsy samples were evaluated for HPV positivity and miR-21-5p, miR-143, miR-155, miR-221-5p expression in Digital Droplet PCR system. Significant miRNA expression differences of HPV positive tumor tissue biopsies were found for miR-21-5p, miR-143 and miR-221-5p compared to the HPV negative tumor biopsy series. Peritumoral mucosa showed patchy pattern alterations of miR-21-5p and miR-155 in HPV positive cases, while gradual change of miR-21-5p and miR-221-5p was seen in HPV negative tumors. In our study we found differences of the miRNA expression patterns among the HPV positive and negative tumorous tissues as well as the surrounding mucosal fields. The CT based 3D models of the cancer field and surrounding mucosal surface can be utilized to improve proper preoperative planning. Complex evaluation of HNSCC tissue organization field can elucidate the clinical and molecular differentiation of HPV positive and negative cases, and enhance effective organ saving therapeutic strategies.
Sympatric competitors have driven the evolution of temporal activity patterns in Cnemaspis geckos in Southeast Asia
Authors: Nguyen Hung Ngoc , Hung Chih-Ming , Yang Ming-Yuan , Lin Si-Min
Published: January 2020

It is often assumed that animals’ temporal activity patterns are highly conserved throughout evolution. While most geckos are nocturnal, the species in theCnemaspisgenus are mostly diurnal (only a few are nocturnal). This raises a question about the evolution of a diel niche in theCnemaspisgenus.Cnemaspisgeckos are distributed across Southeast Asia and are often sympatric withCyrtodactylus, another widespread gecko genus in the same area. Since both genera are mainly rocky habitat specialists, we hypothesize thatCyrtodactylusmay influence the temporal activity pattern ofCnemaspiswhen they are sympatric through competition. By analyzing habitat data, diel activity, and the existence of sympatricCyrtodactylusspecies across the phylogeny of theCnemaspisgenus, we found (1) strong phylogenetic signals in the habitat use trait but not in temporal activity, suggesting that the diel niche of this genus is more labile compared with habitat niche, and (2) a significant association with the temporal activity pattern ofCnemaspisand the sympatry between the two genera, with the former tending to be diurnal when they are sympatric. Originated from a diurnal common ancestor, the release from competition withCyrtodactylusspecies might open an opportunity for someCnemaspisspecies to shift to nocturnal niches.
Meta-analysis of Pandemic Escherichia coli ST131 Plasmidome Proves Restricted Plasmid-clade Associations
Authors: Kondratyeva Kira , Salmon-Divon Mali , Navon-Venezia Shiri
Published: January 2020

Extraintestinal multidrug resistant Escherichia coli sequence type (ST) 131 is a worldwide pandemic pathogen and a major cause of urinary tract and bloodstream infections. The role of this pandemic lineage in multidrug resistance plasmid dissemination is still scarce. We herein performed a meta-analysis on E. coli ST131 whole-genome sequence (WGS) databases to unravel ST131 plasmidome and specifically to decipher CTX-M encoding plasmids-clade associations. We mined 880 ST131 WGS data and proved that CTX-M-27-encoding IncF[F1:A2:B20] (Group1) plasmids are strictly found in clade C1, whereas CTX-M-15-encoding IncF[F2:A1:B-] (Group2) plasmids exist only in clade C2 suggesting strong plasmid-clade adaptations. Specific Col-like replicons (Col156, Col(MG828), and Col8282) were also found to be clade C1-associated. BLAST-based search revealed that Group1 and Group2 plasmids are narrow-host-range and restricted to E.coli. Among a collection of 20 newly sequenced Israeli ST131 CTX-M-encoding plasmids (2003–2016), Group1 and Group2 plasmids were dominant and associated with the expected clades. We found, for the first time in ST131, a CTX-M-15-encoding phage-like plasmid group (Group3) and followed its spread in the WGS data. This study offers a comprehensive way to decipher plasmid-bacterium associations and demonstrates that the CTX-M-encoding ST131 Group1 and Group2 plasmids are clade-restricted and presumably less transmissible, potentially contributing to ST131 clonal superiority.