bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent Patterns and Trends in Breast Cancer Incidence, Mortality and Survival Among Older Women in Germany and the United States
Authors: Jansen Lina , Holleczek Bernd , Kraywinkel Klaus , Weberpals Janick , Schröder Chloé Charlotte , Eberle Andrea , Emrich Katharina , Kajüter Hiltraud , Katalinic Alexander , Kieschke Joachim , Nennecke Alice , Sirri Eunice , Heil Jörg , Schneeweiss Andreas , Brenner Hermann
Published: August 2020

Background: Breast cancer treatment has changed tremendously over the last decades. In addition, the use of mammography screening for early detection has increased strongly. To evaluate the impact of these developments, long-term trends in incidence, mortality, stage distribution and survival were investigated for Germany and the United States (US). Methods: Using population-based cancer registry data, long-term incidence and mortality trends (1975–2015), shifts in stage distributions (1998–2015), and trends in five-year relative survival (1979–2015) were estimated. Additionally, trends in five-year relative survival after standardization for stage were explored (2004–2015). Results: Age-standardized breast cancer incidence rates were much higher in the US than in Germany in all periods, whereas age-standardized mortality began to lower in the US from the 1990s on. The largest and increasing differences were observed for patients aged 70+ years with a 19% lower incidence but 45% higher mortality in Germany in 2015. For this age group, large differences in stage distributions were observed, with 29% (Germany) compared to 15% (US) stage III and IV patients. Age-standardized five-year relative survival increased strongly between 1979–1983 and 2013–2015 in Germany (+17% units) and the US (+19% units) but was 9% units lower in German patients aged 70+ years in 2013–2015. This difference was entirely explained by differences in stage distributions. Conclusions: Overall, our results are in line with a later uptake and less extensive utilization of mammography screening in Germany. Further studies and efforts are highly needed to further explore and overcome the increased breast cancer mortality among elderly women in Germany.
The Potential Role of Immune Alteration in the Cancer–COVID19 Equation—A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Goshen-Lago Tal , Szwarcwort-Cohen Moran , Benguigui Madeleine , Almog Ronit , Turgeman Ilit , Zaltzman Nelly , Halberthal Michael , Shaked Yuval , Ben-Aharon Irit
Published: August 2020

Background: The risk of cancer patients to develop COVID19 infection is unclear. We aimed to prospectively study cancer patients and oncology healthcare workers for COVID19 serology. In IgG+ cases, immune profile was determined to portray the pattern of immune response to SARS-CoV2. Methods: Cancer patients on active treatment and healthcare workers were enrolled. During the study period (3/2020–6/2020), demographic data and blood were collected at three time points. Expression of IgG, IgM, and IgA were assessed. In SARS-CoV-2 IgG+ cases and matched negative cases, we performed mass cytometry time of flight (CyTOF) analysis on the basis of the expression of surface markers. Results: The study included 164 cancer patients on active intravenous treatment and 107 healthcare workers at the cancer center. No symptomatic cases were reported during the study period. Serology analysis revealed four IgG+ patients (2.4%) and two IgG+ healthcare workers (1.9%)—all were asymptomatic. CyTOF analysis demonstrated substantial reduction in myeloid cells in healthcare workers who were SARS-CoV-2 IgG+ compared to those who were SARS-CoV-2 IgG-, whereas in cancer patients, the reduction was relatively milder (≈50% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 IgG+ cancer patients compared with ≈90% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 IgG+ workers). Conclusion: Our results indicate a similar rate of asymptomatic COVID19 infection in cancer patients and healthcare workers in a longitudinal study throughout the pandemic time. Due to differential immune cell profiles of cancer patients who are treated with immunomodulatory agents, the host response to the SARS-COV2 may play a role in COVID19 course and representation. The immunological perspective of cancer treatments on the risk for COVID19 infection should be further explored.
Usefulness of FDG-PET/CT-Based Radiomics for the Characterization and Genetic Orientation of Pheochromocytomas Before Surgery
Authors: Ansquer Catherine , Drui Delphine , Mirallié Eric , Renaudin-Autain Karine , Denis Antoine , Gimenez-Roqueplo Anne-Paule , Leux Christophe , Toulgoat Frederique , Kraeber-Bodéré Françoise , Carlier Thomas
Published: August 2020

Purpose: To assess the potential added value of FDG-PET/CT radiomics for the characterization of pheochromocytomas (PHEO) and their genetic orientation prior to surgery and genetic testing. Methods: This retrospective monocentric study, included 49 patients (52 tumors) that underwent both FDG-PET/CT and MIBG scan before surgery. A germline mutation was secondarily identified in 13 patients in one of the genes related to Cluster 1 (n = 4) or Cluster 2 (n = 9). No mutation was identified in 32 patients and 4 did not have genetic testing. Correlation between several PET-based biomarkers, including SUVmax, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and textural features, and biochemical and genetic features were analyzed. Results: Sensitivity of FDG-PET/CT alone was 92%, and 98% when combined to MIBG. The SUVmax was significantly higher for mutated tumors classified in Cluster 1 than in Cluster 2 (p = 0.002) or for tumors with no identified mutations (p = 0.04). MTV and TLG of the tumors with the most intense uptake discriminated mutated Cluster 2 from sporadic tumors, but not from Cluster 1 tumors. Textural features combined with MTV led to better differentiation between sporadic and mutated tumors (p < 0.05). Conclusion: FDG-PET/CT is useful for preoperative characterization of PHEO, and when combined with radiomics biomarkers, provides evidences for a genetic predisposition.
Electrode Materials for Supercapacitors: A Review of Recent Advances
Authors: Forouzandeh Parnia , Kumaravel Vignesh , Pillai Suresh C.
Published: August 2020

The advanced electrochemical properties, such as high energy density, fast charge–discharge rates, excellent cyclic stability, and specific capacitance, make supercapacitor a fascinating electronic device. During recent decades, a significant amount of research has been dedicated to enhancing the electrochemical performance of the supercapacitors through the development of novel electrode materials. In addition to highlighting the charge storage mechanism of the three main categories of supercapacitors, including the electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs), pseudocapacitors, and the hybrid supercapacitors, this review describes the insights of the recent electrode materials (including, carbon-based materials, metal oxide/hydroxide-based materials, and conducting polymer-based materials, 2D materials). The nanocomposites offer larger SSA, shorter ion/electron diffusion paths, thus improving the specific capacitance of supercapacitors (SCs). Besides, the incorporation of the redox-active small molecules and bio-derived functional groups displayed a significant effect on the electrochemical properties of electrode materials. These advanced properties provide a vast range of potential for the electrode materials to be utilized in different applications such as in wearable/portable/electronic devices such as all-solid-state supercapacitors, transparent/flexible supercapacitors, and asymmetric hybrid supercapacitors.
It Takes Two to Tango: Endothelial TGFβ/BMP Signaling Crosstalk with Mechanobiology
Authors: Hiepen Christian , Mendez Paul-Lennard , Knaus Petra
Published: August 2020

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) superfamily of cytokines. While some ligand members are potent inducers of angiogenesis, others promote vascular homeostasis. However, the precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these functions is still a growing research field. In bone, the tissue in which BMPs were first discovered, crosstalk of TGFβ/BMP signaling with mechanobiology is well understood. Likewise, the endothelium represents a tissue that is constantly exposed to multiple mechanical triggers, such as wall shear stress, elicited by blood flow or strain, and tension from the surrounding cells and to the extracellular matrix. To integrate mechanical stimuli, the cytoskeleton plays a pivotal role in the transduction of these forces in endothelial cells. Importantly, mechanical forces integrate on several levels of the TGFβ/BMP pathway, such as receptors and SMADs, but also global cell-architecture and nuclear chromatin re-organization. Here, we summarize the current literature on crosstalk mechanisms between biochemical cues elicited by TGFβ/BMP growth factors and mechanical cues, as shear stress or matrix stiffness that collectively orchestrate endothelial function. We focus on the different subcellular compartments in which the forces are sensed and integrated into the TGFβ/BMP growth factor signaling.
Explorative Combined Lipid and Transcriptomic Profiling of Substantia Nigra and Putamen in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Xicoy Helena , Brouwers Jos F. , Wieringa Bé , Martens Gerard J. M.
Published: August 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra (SN) that project to the dorsal striatum (caudate-putamen). To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying PD, we performed combined lipid profiling and RNA sequencing of SN and putamen samples from PD patients and age-matched controls. SN lipid analysis pointed to a neuroinflammatory component and included elevated levels of the endosomal lipid Bis (Monoacylglycero)Phosphate 42:8, while two of the three depleted putamen lipids were saturated sphingomyelin species. Remarkably, we observed gender-related differences in the SN and putamen lipid profiles. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the top-enriched pathways among the 354 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the SN were “protein folding” and “neurotransmitter transport”, and among the 261 DEGs from putamen “synapse organization”. Furthermore, we identified pathways, e.g., “glutamate signaling”, and genes, encoding, e.g., an angiotensin receptor subtype or a proprotein convertase, that have not been previously linked to PD. The identification of 33 genes that were common among the SN and putamen DEGs, which included the α-synuclein paralog β-synuclein, may contribute to the understanding of general PD mechanisms. Thus, our proof-of-concept data highlights new genes, pathways and lipids that have not been explored before in the context of PD.
New Insights into the Role of Sphingolipid Metabolism in Melanoma
Authors: Carrié Lorry , Virazels Mathieu , Dufau Carine , Montfort Anne , Levade Thierry , Ségui Bruno , Andrieu-Abadie Nathalie
Published: August 2020

Cutaneous melanoma is a deadly skin cancer whose aggressiveness is directly linked to its metastatic potency. Despite remarkable breakthroughs in term of treatments with the emergence of targeted therapy and immunotherapy, the prognosis for metastatic patients remains uncertain mainly because of resistances. Better understanding the mechanisms responsible for melanoma progression is therefore essential to uncover new therapeutic targets. Interestingly, the sphingolipid metabolism is dysregulated in melanoma and is associated with melanoma progression and resistance to treatment. This review summarises the impact of the sphingolipid metabolism on melanoma from the initiation to metastatic dissemination with emphasis on melanoma plasticity, immune responses and resistance to treatments.
Rho GTPases in the Amygdala—A Switch for Fears?
Authors: Sarowar Tasnuva , Grabrucker Andreas M.
Published: August 2020

Fear is a fundamental evolutionary process for survival. However, excess or irrational fear hampers normal activity and leads to phobia. The amygdala is the primary brain region associated with fear learning and conditioning. There, Rho GTPases are molecular switches that act as signaling molecules for further downstream processes that modulate, among others, dendritic spine morphogenesis and thereby play a role in fear conditioning. The three main Rho GTPases—RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, together with their modulators, are known to be involved in many psychiatric disorders that affect the amygdala′s fear conditioning mechanism. Rich2, a RhoGAP mainly for Rac1 and Cdc42, has been studied extensively in such regard. Here, we will discuss these effectors, along with Rich2, as a molecular switch for fears, especially in the amygdala. Understanding the role of Rho GTPases in fear controlling could be beneficial for the development of therapeutic strategies targeting conditions with abnormal fear/anxiety-like behaviors.
Fine-Tuning of GLI Activity through Arginine Methylation: Its Mechanisms and Function
Authors: Abe Yoshinori , Tanaka Nobuyuki
Published: August 2020

The glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) family consists of GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3 in mammals. This family has important roles in development and homeostasis. To achieve these roles, the GLI family has widespread outputs. GLI activity is therefore strictly regulated at multiple levels, including via post-translational modifications for context-dependent GLI target gene expression. The protein arginine methyl transferase (PRMT) family is also associated with embryogenesis, homeostasis, and cancer mainly via epigenetic modifications. In the PRMT family, PRMT1, PRMT5, and PRMT7 reportedly regulate GLI1 and GLI2 activity. PRMT1 methylates GLI1 to upregulate its activity and target gene expression. Cytoplasmic PRMT5 methylates GLI1 and promotes GLI1 protein stabilization. Conversely, nucleic PRMT5 interacts with MENIN to suppress growth arrest-specific protein 1 expression, which assists Hedgehog ligand binding to Patched, indirectly resulting in downregulated GLI1 activity. PRMT7-mediated GLI2 methylation upregulates its activity through the dissociation of GLI2 and Suppressor of Fused. Together, PRMT1, PRMT5, and PRMT7 regulate GLI activity at multiple revels. Furthermore, the GLI and PRMT families have strong links with various cancers through cancer stem cell maintenance. Therefore, PRMT-mediated regulation of GLI activity would have important roles in cancer stem cell maintenance.
Projected Impacts of Climate Change on the Protected Areas of Myanmar
Authors: Nwe Thazin , Zomer Robert J. , Corlett Richard T.
Published: August 2020

Protected areas are the backbone of biodiversity conservation but are fixed in space and vulnerable to anthropogenic climate change. Myanmar is exceptionally rich in biodiversity but has a small protected area system. This study aimed to assess the potential vulnerability of this system to climate change. In the absence of good biodiversity data, we used a spatial modeling approach based on a statistically derived bioclimatic stratification (the Global Environmental Stratification, GEnS) to understand the spatial implications of projected climate change for Myanmar’s protected area system by 2050 and 2070. Nine bioclimatic zones and 41 strata were recognized in Myanmar, but their representation in the protected area system varied greatly, with the driest zones especially underrepresented. Under climate change, most zones will shift upslope, with some protected areas projected to change entirely to a new bioclimate. Potential impacts on biodiversity include mountaintop extinctions of species endemic to isolated peaks, loss of climate specialists from small protected areas and those with little elevational range, and woody encroachment into savannas and open forests as a result of both climate change and rising atmospheric CO2. Myanmar needs larger, better connected, and more representative protected areas, but political, social, and economic problems make this difficult.
The Effect of Temperature Distribution during Laser Heat Treatment of Gas-Nitrided 42CrMo4 Steel on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Panfil-Pryka Dominika , Kulka Michal , Makuch Natalia , Michalski Jerzy , Dziarski Piotr
Published: August 2020

A gas-nitrided layer was produced on the toughened 42CrMo4 low-alloy steel using the changeable nitriding potential in order to limit the thickness of a brittle ε zone. The microstructure consisted of the compound ε + (ε + γ’) zone and diffusion zone (nitric sorbite with γ’ precipitates). Such a layer was subjected to laser heat treatment with or without remelting. The single laser tracks were formed using various laser beam powers (in the range of 0.234–0.624 kW) and scanning rates (in the range of 2.24–3.84 m·min−1) and the same laser beam diameter (2 mm). The microstructure of laser-modified nitrided layer usually consisted of re-melted zone (MZ) with coarse-grained nitric martensite Feα’ and possible ε precipitates, heat-affected zone (HAZ) with fine-grained nitric martensite Feα’ and γ’ precipitates and diffusion zone with nitric sorbite and γ’ precipitates. Sometimes, the compound zone was partially re-melted and an amount of iron nitrides remained in the MZ. Only one laser track was characterized by the different microstructure, consisting of the compound ε + (ε + γ’) zone, HAZ with fine-grained nitric martensite Feα’ and γ’ precipitates and diffusion zone with nitric sorbite and γ’ precipitates. This laser track was formed without visible effects of remelting. The effect of temperature distribution during laser heat treatment of gas-nitrided 42CrMo4 steel on the microstructure and mechanical properties was studied. The equations developed by Ashby and Esterling were used in order to determine the temperature distribution along the axis of each laser track. Taking into account the temperature profiles, it was possible to calculate the depths of MZ and HAZ. These predicted values were compared to those-measured based on the microstructure observations, obtaining good compatibility. The microstructure of the produced surface layers influenced the mechanical properties such as hardness and Young’s modulus. The hardness of MZ was higher than that of ε zone and lower than that of ε + γ’ zone when compared to nitrided layer. Whereas Young’s modulus of MZ was significantly higher than those characteristic of the compound zone in gas-nitrided layer (both ε and ε + γ’ zone) and similar to that of HAZ. The laser heat treatment (LHT) without remelting resulted in the similar hardness and slightly higher Young’s modulus of ε zone in comparison with the nitrided layer. Simultaneously, such a treatment of the nitrided layer did not influence the hardness and the Young’s modulus of ε + γ’ zone considerably. The hardness of HAZ was higher than that of MZ and that of the same area of diffusion zone in the nitrided layer because of the presence of fine-grained nitric martensite with γ’ precipitates after laser quenching.
Enhancement of Corrosion Resistance and Microbial Protection Analysis of a Rosin Coating with the Incorporation of Leucaena leucocephala
Authors: Wan Mohamad Kamaruzzaman Wan Mohamad Ikhmal , Mohd Fekeri Maria Fazira , Shaifudin Muhamad Syaizwadi , Wan Abdullah Wan Rafizah , Wan Nik Wan Mohd Norsani , Zulkifli Mohammad Fakhratul Ridwan , Mohd Ghazali Mohd Sabri
Published: August 2020

Leucaena leucocephala leaves extract (LLE) was incorporated as an additive in a new coating formulation. The coatings containing different wt.% of the extracts were analysed by optical characterizations and we proceeded to the antimicrobial assessment. The coating was applied onto the surface of stainless steel grade 316L and immersed in seawater for 50 days. A batch of specimens was collected every 10 days and evaluated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization and scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX). The incorporation of 3 wt.% LLE into the coating (P2) matrix remarkably boosted the barrier quality of the coating.
Effect of Microcapsules with Different Core–Wall Ratios on Properties of Waterborne Primer Coating for European Linden
Authors: Yan Xiaoxing , Wang Lin , Qian Xingyu
Published: August 2020

Waterborne acrylic-resin-filled urea–formaldehyde-based microcapsules with core–wall ratios of 0.42:1, 0.50:1, 0.58:1, 0.67:1, 0.75:1, 0.83:1 and 0.92:1 were prepared via in situ polymerization. Microcapsules were added into the primer to investigate the optical and mechanical properties of the coating on European linden. The results indicated that under the condition of the same core–wall ratio, chroma differences increased gradually with increasing concentration. The coating gloss decreased with increasing concentration. The hardness of 10.0–15.0% microcapsules increased more obviously, with the highest elongations at the break of the coating. At the 0.58:1 core–wall ratio and the 10.0% concentration, the coating adhesion was level 1 and the impact resistance was 10.0 kg cm. Microcapsule concentration did not affect the coating’s liquid resistance. The coating with 10.0% microcapsules added at a 0.58:1 core–wall ratio had a better self-healing property, a good stability and aging resistance. This paper lays a technical basis for the manufacturing and utilization of self-healing waterborne wood coatings.
Controlling Electrical Conduction through Noble Metal Thin Films by Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Sharma Suresh C. , Khichar Vivek , Akafzade Hussein , Zinn Douglas , Hozhabri Nader
Published: August 2020

We have conducted in situ measurements of the surface plasmons and electrical resistivity of noble metal thin films. We present results for the electrical resistivity of these materials as functions of the angle of incidence for p-polarized light of wavelength λ = 632 nm in the Kretschmann configuration optical system. We observe a significantly lower resistivity (higher conductivity) under resonance conditions for the surface plasmon polaritons. The resistivity data are supported by COMSOL simulations of the evanescent fields associated with the surface plasmons. We discuss the resistivity data in terms of the theoretical models, which suggest that the electrical conductivity of the transition metals is sensitive to Umklapp electron-electron scattering and attractive interactions between free electrons because of the screening of the d-band electrons by the s-band electrons.
Evolution of Spin-Orbital Entanglement with Increasing Ising Spin-Orbit Coupling
Authors: Gotfryd Dorota , Pärschke Ekaterina , Wohlfeld Krzysztof , Oleś Andrzej M.
Published: August 2020

Several realistic spin-orbital models for transition metal oxides go beyond the classical expectations and could be understood only by employing the quantum entanglement. Experiments on these materials confirm that spin-orbital entanglement has measurable consequences. Here, we capture the essential features of spin-orbital entanglement in complex quantum matter utilizing 1D spin-orbital model which accommodates SU(2)⊗SU(2) symmetric Kugel-Khomskii superexchange as well as the Ising on-site spin-orbit coupling. Building on the results obtained for full and effective models in the regime of strong spin-orbit coupling, we address the question whether the entanglement found on superexchange bonds always increases when the Ising spin-orbit coupling is added. We show that (i) quantum entanglement is amplified by strong spin-orbit coupling and, surprisingly, (ii) almost classical disentangled states are possible. We complete the latter case by analyzing how the entanglement existing for intermediate values of spin-orbit coupling can disappear for higher values of this coupling.
Anti-Solvent Crystallization
Authors: Yu Zai-Qun , Tan Reginald Beng Hee
Published: August 2020

n/a
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Severe Dry Eye in Bangladesh-Based Factory Garment Workers
Authors: Rashid Mamunur AKM , Teo Calesta Hui Yi , Mamun Sumaiya , Ong Hon Shing , Tong Louis
Published: August 2020

This study sought to evaluate the prevalence of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and the associated factors of severe dry eye symptoms (SDES) among garments worker of Gazipur, Bangladesh. We prospectively collected cross-sectional data for 1050 garments workers of a factory (70% response). All participants had an evaluation of the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and a detailed ophthalmic examination including tear breakup time (TBUT), ocular surface fluorescein staining, and Schirmer’s I test. MGD grading was based on the viscosity/color and ease of manual expression of meibum. Mean age of participants was 35.5 ± 12.1 years; 53.8% were women. The prevalence of dry eye (OSDI > 12) was 64.2% (95% CI 61.2–67.1%). OSDI was not significantly different between sex or age-groups but associated with increasing MGD grade (p < 0.001), reduced TBUT (<5 s) [p < 0.001], and reduced Schirmer’s test (<5 mm) [p < 0.001]. Thirty-five percent had SDES (OSDI > 32). Using univariate logistic regressions, SDES was associated with older age (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.01, 95% Confidence Interval [1.005–1.03] per year increase) and male sex (OR 1.76, 95% CI: 1.36–2.27). When adjusted for age and sex, SDES were strongly associated with increase in MGD severity grading (OR 188, 95% CI: 91–390). However, in multivariate regression, TBUT, but not MGD severity, became the only significant determinant of SDES (OR 13.0, 95% CI: 6.3–27.0, for every 1 s decrease in TBUT). MGD is common in garments workers, contributing to dry eye symptoms in addition to other tear parameters. Reduced tear stability is associated with SDES.
Comment on “Crystallization of Supercooled Liquids: Self-Consistency Correction of the Steady-State Nucleation Rate” by Abyzov et al., Entropy 2020, 22, 558
Authors: Shneidman Vitaly A.
Published: August 2020

It is shown that in the growth region (above the critical nucleation size) the transient distributions obtained numerically from the Becker-Döring equation (BDE) by Abyzov et al., Entropy 2020, 22, 558, are in accurate correspondence with the matched asymptotic (singular perturbation) solution by Shneidman, Sov. Phys. Tech. Phys. 1988, 33, 1338. The solution is unmodified by “self-consistency” corrections which affect only the steady state rate. Sensitivity of the results to selection of a specific form of the BDE (the “nucleation model”) also is briefly discussed.
A 2.4 GHz 20 W 8-channel RF Source Module with Solid-State Power Amplifiers for Plasma Generators
Authors: Nam Hyosung , Sim Taejoo , Kim Junghyun
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a novel multi-channel type RF source module with solid-state power amplifiers for plasma generators. The proposed module is consisted of a DC control part, RF source generation part, and power amplification part. A 2-stage power amplifier (PA) is combined with a gallium arsenide hetero bipolar transistor (GaAs HBT) as a drive PA and a gallium nitride high electron mobility transistor (GaN HEMT) as a main PA, respectively. By employing 8 channels, the proposed module secures better area coverage on the wafer during semiconductor processes such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD), etching and so on. Additionally, each channel can be maintained at a constant output power because they have a gain factor tunable by a variable gain amplifier (VGA). For that reason, it is possible to have uniform plasma density on the wafer. The operating sequence is controllable by an external DC control port. Moreover, copper–tungsten (CuW) heat spreaders were applied to prevent RF performance degradation from heat generated by the high power amplifier (HPA), and a water jacket was implemented at the bottom of the power amplification part for liquid cooling. Drawing upon the measurement results, the output power at each channel was over 43 dBm (20 W) and the drain efficiency was more than 50% at 2.4 GHz.
A Review of Machine Learning Algorithms for Cloud Computing Security
Authors: Butt Umer Ahmed , Mehmood Muhammad , Shah Syed Bilal Hussain , Amin Rashid , Shaukat M. Waqas , Raza Syed Mohsan , Suh Doug Young , Piran Md. Jalil
Published: August 2020

Cloud computing (CC) is on-demand accessibility of network resources, especially data storage and processing power, without special and direct management by the users. CC recently has emerged as a set of public and private datacenters that offers the client a single platform across the Internet. Edge computing is an evolving computing paradigm that brings computation and information storage nearer to the end-users to improve response times and spare transmission capacity. Mobile CC (MCC) uses distributed computing to convey applications to cell phones. However, CC and edge computing have security challenges, including vulnerability for clients and association acknowledgment, that delay the rapid adoption of computing models. Machine learning (ML) is the investigation of computer algorithms that improve naturally through experience. In this review paper, we present an analysis of CC security threats, issues, and solutions that utilized one or several ML algorithms. We review different ML algorithms that are used to overcome the cloud security issues including supervised, unsupervised, semi-supervised, and reinforcement learning. Then, we compare the performance of each technique based on their features, advantages, and disadvantages. Moreover, we enlist future research directions to secure CC models.
High Pressure Processing of Ion Implanted GaN
Authors: Sierakowski Kacper , Jakiela Rafal , Lucznik Boleslaw , Kwiatkowski Pawel , Iwinska Malgorzata , Turek Marcin , Sakurai Hideki , Kachi Tetsu , Bockowski Michal
Published: August 2020

It is well known that ion implantation is one of the basic tools for semiconductor device fabrication. The implantation process itself damages, however, the crystallographic lattice of the semiconductor. Such damage can be removed by proper post-implantation annealing of the implanted material. Annealing also allows electrical activation of the dopant and creates areas of different electrical types in a semiconductor. However, such thermal treatment is particularly challenging in the case of gallium nitride since it decomposes at relatively low temperature (~800 °C) at atmospheric pressure. In order to remove the implantation damage in a GaN crystal structure, as well as activate the implanted dopants at ultra-high pressure, annealing process is proposed. It will be described in detail in this paper. P-type GaN implanted with magnesium will be briefly discussed. A possibility to analyze diffusion of any dopant in GaN will be proposed and demonstrated on the example of beryllium.
Fast Characterization of Input-Output Behavior of Non-Charge-Based Logic Devices by Machine Learning
Authors: Kaintura Arun , Foss Kyle , Zografos Odysseas , Couckuyt Ivo , Vaysset Adrien , Dhaene Tom , Sorée Bart
Published: August 2020

Non-charge-based logic devices are promising candidates for the replacement of conventional complementary metal-oxide semiconductors (CMOS) devices. These devices utilize magnetic properties to store or process information making them power efficient. Traditionally, to fully characterize the input-output behavior of these devices a large number of micromagnetic simulations are required, which makes the process computationally expensive. Machine learning techniques have been shown to dramatically decrease the computational requirements of many complex problems. We use state-of-the-art data-efficient machine learning techniques to expedite the characterization of their behavior. Several intelligent sampling strategies are combined with machine learning (binary and multi-class) classification models. These techniques are applied to a magnetic logic device that utilizes direct exchange interaction between two distinct regions containing a bistable canted magnetization configuration. Three classifiers were developed with various adaptive sampling techniques in order to capture the input-output behavior of this device. By adopting an adaptive sampling strategy, it is shown that prediction accuracy can approach that of full grid sampling while using only a small training set of micromagnetic simulations. Comparing model predictions to a grid-based approach on two separate cases, the best performing machine learning model accurately predicts 99.92% of the dense test grid while utilizing only 2.36% of the training data respectively.
Online Group Student Peer-Communication as an Element of Open Education
Authors: Bylieva Daria , Bekirogullari Zafer , Kuznetsov Dmitry , Almazova Nadezhda , Lobatyuk Victoria , Rubtsova Anna
Published: August 2020

Information and communication technologies transform modern education into a more available learning matrix. One of the unexplored aspects of open education is the constant communicative interaction within the student group by using social media. The aim of the study was to determine principal functions of student-led communication in the educational process, the method for assessing its strong points and the disadvantages disrupting traditional learning. For the primary study of the phenomenon, we used methods that made it possible to propose approaches to further analysis. Netnography is the main research method defining the essence and characteristics of the student-led peer-communication. In our research, we applied data visualization, analytical and quantitative methods and developed a set of quantitative indicators that can be used to assess various aspects of student communication in chats. The elaborated visual model can serve as a simple tool for diagnosing group communication processes. We revealed that online group chats perform a support function in learning. They provide constant informational resource on educational and organizational issues and create emotional comfort. Identified features serve to define shortcomings (e.g., lack of students’ readiness to freely exchange answers to assignments) and significant factors (e.g., underutilized opportunities for self-organization) that exist in the modern system of higher education.
Topic Detection Based on Sentence Embeddings and Agglomerative Clustering with Markov Moment
Authors: Bodrunova Svetlana S. , Orekhov Andrey V. , Blekanov Ivan S. , Lyudkevich Nikolay S. , Tarasov Nikita A.
Published: August 2020

The paper is dedicated to solving the problem of optimal text classification in the area of automated detection of typology of texts. In conventional approaches to topicality-based text classification (including topic modeling), the number of clusters is to be set up by the scholar, and the optimal number of clusters, as well as the quality of the model that designates proximity of texts to each other, remain unresolved questions. We propose a novel approach to the automated definition of the optimal number of clusters that also incorporates an assessment of word proximity of texts, combined with text encoding model that is based on the system of sentence embeddings. Our approach combines Universal Sentence Encoder (USE) data pre-processing, agglomerative hierarchical clustering by Ward’s method, and the Markov stopping moment for optimal clustering. The preferred number of clusters is determined based on the “e-2” hypothesis. We set up an experiment on two datasets of real-world labeled data: News20 and BBC. The proposed model is tested against more traditional text representation methods, like bag-of-words and word2vec, to show that it provides a much better-resulting quality than the baseline DBSCAN and OPTICS models with different encoding methods. We use three quality metrics to demonstrate that clustering quality does not drop when the number of clusters grows. Thus, we get close to the convergence of text clustering and text classification.
Water Extract of Agastache rugosa Prevents Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss by Inhibiting Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Jang Seon-A , Hwang Youn-Hwan , Kim Taesoo , Yang Hyun , Lee Jun , Seo Young Hye , Park Jae-Il , Ha Hyunil
Published: August 2020

Estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women causes homeostatic imbalance of bone, resulting in bone loss and osteoporosis. Agastache rugosa, a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is an aromatic herb, and the leaves of this herb are widely used as food ingredients. Extracts of A. rugosa have various bioactivities including anti-HIV integration, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherogenic properties. However, the beneficial effect of A. rugosa on bone has not been studied. Therefore, we investigated the effects of water extract of A. rugosa (WEAR) on osteoclast differentiation and estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) mice as an animal model for postmenopausal osteoporosis. The oral administration of WEAR remarkably improved OVX-induced trabecular bone loss and fat accumulation in the bone marrow. WEAR suppressed receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation in osteoclast precursor cells, subsequently inhibiting resorption activity on a bone mimetic surface. WEAR inhibited the expression of cellular oncogene fos (c-Fos) and nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), key osteoclastogenic transcription factors, by decreasing RANKL-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. We also identified seventeen phytochemicals present in WEAR, including five phenols and twelve flavonoids, and found eleven bioactive constituents that have anti-osteoclastogenic effects. Collectively, these results suggest that WEAR could be used to treat and prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis by suppressing osteoclastogenesis.
Identification of Novel Copy Number Variations of VCAN Gene in Three Chinese Families with Wagner Disease
Authors: Li Songshan , Li Mengke , Sun Limei , Zhao Xiujuan , Zhang Ting , Huang Li , Huang Sijian , Chen Chonglin , Wang Zhirong , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: August 2020

The VCAN/versican gene encodes an important component of the extracellular matrix, the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 2 (CSPG2/versican). Heterozygous variants targeting exon 8 of VCAN have been shown to cause Wagner disease, a rare autosomal dominant non-syndromic vitreoretinopathy that induces retinal detachment, cataracts and permanent visual loss. In this study, we report on six patients from three unrelated families with Wagner disease in whom we identified three novel copy number variations of VCAN. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis identified deletions, including one exon–intron boundary of exon 8 or both exons 8 and 9, causing the haploinsufficiency of VCAN mRNAs.
Bioinformatics Analysis Revealed Novel 3′UTR Variants Associated with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Yang Junmeng , Liu Anna , He Isabella , Bai Yongsheng
Published: August 2020

MicroRNAs (or miRNAs) are short nucleotide sequences (~17–22 bp long) that play important roles in gene regulation through targeting genes in the 3′untranslated regions (UTRs). Variants located in genomic regions might have different biological consequences in changing gene expression. Exonic variants (e.g., coding variant and 3′UTR variant) are often causative of diseases due to their influence on gene product. Variants harbored in the 3′UTR region where miRNAs perform their targeting function could potentially alter the binding relationships for target pairs, which could relate to disease causation. We gathered miRNA–mRNA targeting pairs from published studies and then employed the database of microRNA Target Site single nucleotide variants (SNVs) (dbMTS) to discover novel SNVs within the selected pairs. We identified a total of 183 SNVs for the 114 pairs of accurate miRNA–mRNA targeting pairs selected. Detailed bioinformatics analysis of the three genes with identified variants that were exclusively located in the 3′UTR section indicated their association with intellectual disability (ID). Our result showed an exceptionally high expression of GPR88 in brain tissues based on GTEx gene expression data, while WNT7A expression data were relatively high in brain tissues when compared to other tissues. Motif analysis for the 3′UTR region of WNT7A showed that five identified variants were well-conserved across three species (human, mouse, and rat); the motif that contains the variant identified in GPR88 is significant at the level of the 3′UTR of the human genome. Studies of pathways, protein–protein interactions, and relations to diseases further suggest potential association with intellectual disability of our discovered SNVs. Our results demonstrated that 3′UTR variants could change target interactions of miRNA–mRNA pairs in the context of their association with ID. We plan to automate the methods through developing a bioinformatics pipeline for identifying novel 3′UTR SNVs harbored by miRNA-targeted genes in the future.
Metabolomic Analysis of SCD during Goose Follicular Development: Implications for Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Yuan Xin , Hu Shenqiang , Li Liang , Liu Hehe , He Hua , Wang Jiwen
Published: August 2020

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) is known to be an important rate-limiting enzyme in the production of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). However, the role of this enzyme in goose follicular development is poorly understood. To investigate the metabolic mechanism of SCD during goose follicular development, we observed its expression patterns in vivo and in vitro using quantitative reverse-transcription (qRT)-PCR. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to determine a cellular model of SCD function in granulosa cells (GCs) via SCD overexpression and knockdown. qRT-PCR analysis showed that SCD was abundantly expressed in the GC layer, and was upregulated in preovulatory follicles. Peak expression was found in F1 and prehierarchal follicles with diameters of 4–6 mm and 8–10 mm, respectively. We further found that mRNA expression and corresponding enzyme activity occur in a time-dependent oscillation pattern in vitro, beginning on the first day of GC culture. By LC-MS/MS, we identified numerous changes in metabolite activation and developed an overview of multiple metabolic pathways, 10 of which were associated with lipid metabolism and enriched in both the overexpressed and knockdown groups. Finally, we confirmed cholesterol and pantothenol or pantothenate as potential metabolite biomarkers to study SCD-related lipid metabolism in goose GCs.
Prediction and Analysis of SARS-CoV-2-Targeting MicroRNA in Human Lung Epithelium
Authors: Chow Jonathan Tak-Sum , Salmena Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), an RNA virus, is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020. Experimental evidence suggests that microRNA can mediate an intracellular defence mechanism against some RNA viruses. The purpose of this study was to identify microRNA with predicted binding sites in the SARS-CoV-2 genome, compare these to their microRNA expression profiles in lung epithelial tissue and make inference towards possible roles for microRNA in mitigating coronavirus infection. We hypothesize that high expression of specific coronavirus-targeting microRNA in lung epithelia may protect against infection and viral propagation, conversely, low expression may confer susceptibility to infection. We have identified 128 human microRNA with potential to target the SARS-CoV-2 genome, most of which have very low expression in lung epithelia. Six of these 128 microRNA are differentially expressed upon in vitro infection of SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, 28 microRNA also target the SARS-CoV genome while 23 microRNA target the MERS-CoV genome. We also found that a number of microRNA are commonly identified in two other studies. Further research into identifying bona fide coronavirus targeting microRNA will be useful in understanding the importance of microRNA as a cellular defence mechanism against pathogenic coronavirus infections.
Gender, Socioeconomic, and Health Characteristics Associated with Influenza Vaccination Coverage (VC) among Italian Healthcare Workers: Secondary Analysis of a National Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Barbadoro Pamela , Brighenti Aura , Acquaviva Giorgia , Catalini Alessandro , Diotallevi Francesca , Masiero Alberto Lino , Montagna Vincenzo , D’Errico Marcello Mario
Published: August 2020

Influenza epidemics pose a great overload over health-care facilities with an increase in the burden of disease for patients and healthcare costs. Despite a well-established amount of research in the area, vaccination rates show room for improvement and more research is needed in finding systematic interventions useful in improving healthcare workers (HCWs) vaccination coverage (VC). The purpose of this study was to describe the self-reported frequency of influenza immunization in HCWs and to identify demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle, and health factors associated with this practice in Italy. Data about 5823 workers participating in the Italian national survey about health and healthcare services utilization are analyzed in the present study. Overall, 18.8% of HCWs reported being vaccinated against seasonal flu. In the multilevel regression, older workers had a higher likelihood of vaccine uptake (OR: 6.07; 95% CI 4.72–7.79), similar to those with chronic conditions or poor self-perceived health status (OR: 2.18 95% CI 1.17–4.09). On the other hand, the results highlighted a lower rate of VC in female HCWs (OR: 0.73 95% CI 0.61–0.86). Data confirm the low compliance towards flu immunization among Italian HCWs and highlight an important gap to be investigated in women.
The Benefit Finding Questionnaire (BFQ): Scale Development, Validation, and Its Psychometric Properties Among People with Mental Illness
Authors: Chiba Rie , Funakoshi Akiko , Yamazaki Yoshihiko , Miyamoto Yuki
Published: August 2020

Benefit finding has been defined as positive life changes that result from a stressful event, such as the diagnosis of chronic illness. The present study aimed to develop a benefit finding questionnaire (BFQ) and examine its psychometric property among people with chronic mental illness in Japan. This study adopted a mixed method composed of three phases, including Phase 1: To draft the item pool and design the BFQ based on literature review and discussion among the authors, Phase 2: To revise and refine the drafted items through feedback from focus group interviews and further consideration, and Phase 3: To examine the psychometric properties of the BFQ following the questionnaire survey for people with chronic mental illness and validation of the questionnaire. In Phase 3, a cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted for mental health service users. Among the 373 eligible participants, we used data from 265 respondents for the analyses (valid response rate = 71.0%). About 65% were male, and the average age was 45.3 years (SD = 12.9). Around 70% were diagnosed with schizophrenia. Factorial, concurrent, and divergent validities, as well as reliability were explored. The 21-item BFQ demonstrated good factorial validity, concurrent and divergent validities, and sufficient internal consistency reliability among people with chronic mental illness. It appears to be a useful scale to assess experience of benefit finding among people with chronic mental illness. Further large-scale research will ensure verification of the scale among people with other illnesses or difficulties.