bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Systematic Risk and Previous Period Returns on Portfolio Selection
Authors: Berk Cem , Tutarli Bekir
Published: October 2020

There are many techniques to determine investable set of portfolios given return data of assets. However, the theoretical results do not always point out the best portfolios in practice. This is due to the fact that financial dynamics are so difficult to be modelled and this requires many assumptions. The investor may have some preferences to select portfolios. In this study, two selection criteria are proposed to be applied in a mean variance optimization. These criteria are beta coefficient which is a measure of systematic risk and previous period return.The study has an empirical analysis applied on Istanbul Stock Exchange. The findings of the study confirm that these selection criteria may be used to obtain investable portfolios. The analysis with beta selection criteria reveal that the portfolio with lowest 5 beta coefficients is the best alternative. This means that the advantage of low beta which is a natural hedge when stock values declineis superior to diversification benefits of adding new stocks.The previous period return analysis suggest two alternative portfolios. In addition, one of these portfolios generate higher return than the portfolio selected with beta selection criterion. This is also a higher risk portfolio. Therefore the decision is based on risk profile of the investor.This research offer to add selection criteria to the standard approach which is beneficial for academic and practical purposes in portfolio management.
Damage Classification of Composites Based on Analysis of Lamb Wave Signals Using Machine Learning
Authors: Dabetwar Shweta , Ekwaro-Osire Stephen , Dias João Paulo
Published: October 2020

Composite materials have a myriad of applications in complex engineering systems, and multiple structural health monitoring (SHM) strategies have been developed. However, these methods are challenging due to signal attenuation and excessive noise interference in composite materials. Signal processing can capture a small difference between the input–output signals associated with the severity of the damage in composites. Thus, the research question is “can signal processing techniques reduce the required number of features and assess the randomness of fatigue damage classification in composite materials using machine learning (ML) algorithms?” To answer this question, piezo-electric signals for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) test specimens were taken from NASA Ames prognostics data repository. A framework based on a comparative analysis of signals was developed. For the first specific aim, the effectiveness of features based on statistical condition indicators of the sensor signals were evaluated. For the second specific aim, actuator-sensor signal pair were analyzed using cross-correlation to extract two features. These features were used to train and test four supervised ML algorithms for damage classification and their performance was discussed. For the third specific aim, randomness in the dataset of fatigue damage of the specimens was assessed. Results showed that by signal processing, the requirement of features for training ML was reduced with the improvement in the performance of ML. The randomness was captured by the utilization of two specimens from the same material. This work contributes to the improvement of intelligent damage classification of composite materials, operating under complex working conditions.
A Digital Twin for Lift Planning With Offshore Heave Compensated Cranes
Authors: Moslått Geir-Arne , Padovani Damiano , Hansen Michael Rygaard
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a state-of-the-art digital twin of a hydraulic actuated winch that is used for heave compensation in offshore applications. The digital twin is used as part of a larger simulation model that involves all necessary components to perform lift planning and, subsequently, determine the corresponding weather window. The winch simulation model is described and verified by means of full-scale measurements. In addition, a set of acceptance criteria are presented that should be used whenever verifying digital twins of heave compensating winches that are to be used for lift planning.
Periodic Numerical Rough Surface Filtered Generation
Authors: Liu Runqing , Tao Tao , Mei Xuesong
Published: October 2020

Numerical surface filtered generation is one of the main methods for generating numerical rough surfaces, but when faced with rough surfaces with waviness or large periodicity, traditional filtering methods cannot be implemented well. Because of this, the paper adopts the method of decomposing and synthesizing the maximum period and random part of the periodic rough surface. By decomposing the statistical parameters of the target surface, the statistical parameters of the ideal periodic surface and the random surface are generated, respectively, and then according to the surface parameters generate the surfaces and synthesize them. By comparing the statistical parameters and morphology of the synthesized surface with its actual surface, it can be found that this method can well achieve the generation of periodic rough surfaces, which is a good improvement to the original filter generation method.
Filler Dispersion and Unidirectional Sliding Characteristics of As-Cast and Multi-Pass Friction Stir Processed ZrB2/AA7075 In-Situ Composites
Authors: Prasad Rabindra , Kumar Harikishor , Kumar Parshant , Tewari S. P. , Singh J. K.
Published: October 2020

Despite the fabrication of particulate-reinforced composites via friction stir processing (FSP), an attempt was made to utilize FSP for the homogenization of filler dispersion in ZrB2/AA7075 in-situ composites fabricated via stir casting route, with varying weight percentages of ZrB2. The friction stir processing was performed for up to three passes with 100% overlap. The as-cast and friction stir processed (FSPed) composites were characterized for their microstructural, microhardness, and tribological behavior. The microstructural features revealed the increase in the misorientation angle among grain boundaries, with an increase in ZrB2 content and a number of FSP passes. Furthermore, the homogeneity of ZrB2 particles in the Al alloy matrix was significantly influenced by the number of FSP passes, which was quantified by Lorenz curves and Gini Indices. The FSPed alloy and composites exhibited higher microhardness as compared to their un-processed counterparts. The tribological behavior was investigated for three different load levels, i.e., 15 N, 30 N, and 45 N. The slope of the wear-rate at 45 N revealed that the Al-alloy exhibited a considerable increase in wear severity, whereas as-cast and FSPed composites did not show a significant increase. Both wear-rate and coefficient of friction decreased with an increase in the number of FSP passes and ZrB2 content. The scanning electron micrographs of worn surfaces confirmed the reduction in adhesion, abrasion, and delamination with the number of FSP passes. However, the synergism among the three depicted the overall tribological behavior.
Experimental observations of a rupture induced underwater sound source
Authors: McNeese Andrew R. , Lee Kevin M. , Sagers Jason D. , Lee Michael J. , Wilson Preston S.
Published: October 2020

A rupture induced underwater sound source (RIUSS) is being developed as an alternative to other impulsive sound sources commonly utilized in underwater acoustics experiments and surveys. The device is comprised of a graphite rupture disk mounted over an evacuated chamber. After the disk breaks, an inrush of water creates a high amplitude acoustic pulse. A field test was conducted to measure the acoustic output as a function of depth for a given source configuration, and high speed underwater video was simultaneously captured with an acoustic recording system to correlate the features of the acoustic output to the ensuing bubble activity.
Immersive Virtual Tasks With Motor and Cognitive Components: A Feasibility Study With Young and Older Adults
Authors: Caruso Soares Beatriz , Bacha Jéssica Maria Ribeiro , Mello Daniel Donadio , Moretto Emerson Galves , Fonseca Tatiana , Vieira Karina Santos , de Lima Amanda Franchi , Lange Belinda , Torriani-Pasin Camila , Deus Lopes Roseli de , Pompeu José Eduardo
Published: October 2020

Objective:To analyze the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of immersive virtual tasks.Methods:The authors recruited 11 young adults and 10 older adults. The participants performed three virtual reaching tasks while walking on a virtual path. The descriptive analysis and comparison between participants were performed using the Mann–WhitneyUtest and chi-square test for nonparametric and nominal variables, respectively. The authors also used analysis of variance for a between-groups comparison for normal variables.Results:Twenty percent of older adults and 81.8% of young adults completed all three tasks (chi-square test;p = .005). Both groups reported minor symptoms, with no significant differences. The older adults were more motivated to practice the tasks (Mann–WhitneyUtest;p = .015) and would be more likely to suggest them to others (chi-square test;p = .034).Conclusion:All three tasks were feasible for young adults. All participants, except for one, had cybersickness. The symptoms were mostly mild and subsided once the interaction was complete.
Physical Activity Among Urban-Living Middle-Aged and Older Japanese During the Build-Up to the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games: A Population Study
Authors: Annear Michael , Kidokoro Tetsuhiro , Shimizu Yasuo
Published: October 2020

This research examines physical activity (PA) parameters among urban-living middle-aged and older Japanese during the Tokyo Olympic build-up period. Population sampling was employed, and an online survey was administered with 4,000 adults across Japan’s five largest cities. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form constituted the main outcome variable, with auxiliary measures of Olympic interest and engagement, readiness for PA behavior change, perceived environmental barriers, and demographic information. Despite interest in the Olympics (>60% moderate–high interest), planned engagement with the event was low (>70% planned passive engagement). Higher levels of interest and planned engagement were both significantly correlated with greater self-reported PA participation (p < .001). Across the sample, the PA levels were in the low–moderate range (990 metabolic equivalent of task-min/week), with significant variations observed by the age-cohort and geographic area (p < .001). Age-cohort and geographic variations were also identified with regard to readiness for PA behavior change and perceived environmental barriers to activity (p < .001). Older age (65 years and above) and host city (Tokyo) residence emerged as correlates of higher levels of PA, greater readiness for behavior change, and fewer reported barriers to participation. These findings have implications for Olympic legacy management and successful transitions from middle age to later life in Japan.
Compliance of the Physical Activity Guidelines Accumulated in Bouts ≥10 Min and Nonbouts and Its Association With Body Composition and Physical Function: A Cross-Sectional Study in Brazilian Older Adults
Authors: Ribeiro Anna Gabriela Silva Vilela , Verlengia Rozangela , de Oliveira Maria Rita Marques , Oliveira Matheus Valério Almeida , Pellegrinotti Idico Luiz , Crisp Alex Harley
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to investigate the association between compliance with the guidelines of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) accumulated in bouts of ≥10 min or nonbouts with body composition and physical function in older adults. The authors evaluated 230 noninstitutionalized older adults. Body composition was estimated using bioimpedance, and physical function was assessed using four physical tests. Physical activities were monitored for 7 days using an accelerometer. Older adults who were physically active according to MVPA in bouts of ≥10 min were less likely to have low appendicular skeletal muscle mass (odds ratio [OR] = 0.12), excess body fat (OR = 0.30), and abdominal obesity (OR = 0.34) and more likely to have a higher physical function (OR = 5.78). No significant association was observed with MVPA nonbout. Our findings indicate that older adults who accumulate MVPA in bouts of  ≥10 min have better parameters for body composition and physical function.
How CDC foundered
Authors: Piller Charles
Published: October 2020

The agency's missteps were multiplied by political interference.
Set ambitious goals for biodiversity and sustainability
Authors: Díaz Sandra , Zafra-Calvo Noelia , Purvis Andy , Verburg Peter H. , Obura David , Leadley Paul , Chaplin-Kramer Rebecca , De Meester Luc , Dulloo Ehsan , Martín-López Berta , Shaw M. Rebecca , Visconti Piero , Broadgate Wendy , Bruford Michael W. , Burgess Neil D. , Cavender-Bares Jeannine , DeClerck Fabrice , Fernández-Palacios José María , Garibaldi Lucas A. , Hill Samantha L. L. , Isbell Forest , Khoury Colin K. , Krug Cornelia B. , Liu Jianguo , Maron Martine , McGowan Philip J. K. , Pereira Henrique M. , Reyes-García Victoria , Rocha Juan , Rondinini Carlo , Shannon Lynne , Shin Yunne-Jai , Snelgrove Paul V. R. , Spehn Eva M. , Strassburg Bernardo , Subramanian Suneetha M. , Tewksbury Joshua J. , Watson James E. M. , Zanne Amy E.
Published: October 2020

Multiple, coordinated goals and holistic actions are critical
Creating value from plastic waste
Authors: Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: October 2020

Polyethylene can be upcycled into alkylaromatic compounds for the production of detergents
Forming a mucus barrier along the colon
Authors: Birchenough George M. H. , Johansson Malin E. V.
Published: October 2020

Optimal barrier function requires both proximal colon– and distal colon–derived mucus
Joseph H. Connell (1923–2020)
Authors: Murdoch William W. , Sousa Wayne P.
Published: October 2020

Innovative experimental ecologist
Phenotypic and Transcriptomic Analyses of Seven Clinical Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Isolates Identify a Small Set of Shared and Commonly Regulated Genes Involved in the Biofilm Lifestyle
Authors: Alio Ifey , Gudzuhn Mirja , Pérez García Pablo , Danso Dominik , Schoelmerich Marie Charlotte , Mamat Uwe , Schaible Ulrich E. , Steinmann Jörg , Yero Daniel , Gibert Isidre , Kohl Thomas A. , Niemann Stefan , Gröschel Matthias I. , Haerdter Johanna , Hackl Thomas , Vollstedt Christel , Bömeke Mechthild , Egelkamp Richard , Daniel Rolf , Poehlein Anja , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: October 2020

Microorganisms living in a biofilm are much more tolerant to antibiotics and antimicrobial substances than planktonic cells are. Thus, the treatment of infections caused by microorganisms living in biofilms is extremely difficult. Nosocomial infections (among others) caused by
S. maltophilia
, particularly lung infection among CF patients, have increased in prevalence in recent years. The intrinsic multidrug resistance of
S. maltophilia
and the increased tolerance to antimicrobial agents of its biofilm cells make the treatment of
S. maltophilia
infection difficult. The significance of our research is based on understanding the common mechanisms involved in biofilm formation of different
S. maltophilia
isolates, understanding the diversity of biofilm architectures among strains of this species, and identifying the differently regulated processes in biofilm versus planktonic cells. These results will lay the foundation for the treatment of
S. maltophilia
biofilms.
Phylotype-Level Characterization of Complex Communities of Lactobacilli Using a High-Throughput, High-Resolution Phenylalanyl-tRNA Synthetase (
pheS
) Gene Amplicon Sequencing Approach
Authors: Silvaraju Shaktheeshwari , Menon Nandita , Fan Huan , Lim Kevin , Kittelmann Sandra
Published: October 2020

Species formerly classified within the genera
Lactobacillus
and
Pediococcus
have been studied extensively at the genomic level. To accommodate their exceptional functional diversity, the over 270 species were recently reclassified into 26 distinct genera. Despite their relevance to both academia and industry, methods that allow detailed exploration of their ecology are still limited by low resolution, high cost, or copy number variations. The approach described here makes use of a single-copy marker gene which outperforms other markers with regard to species-level resolution and availability of reference sequences (98% coverage). The tool was validated against a mock community and used to address diversity of lactobacilli and community structure in various environmental matrices. Such analyses can now be performed at a broader scale to assess and monitor the assembly, structure, and function of communities of lactobacilli at the species level (and, in some cases, even at the subspecies level) across a wide range of academic and commercial applications.
Exogenous Reproductive Hormones nor Candida albicans Colonization Alter the Near Neutral Mouse Vaginal pH
Authors: Miao Jian , Willems Hubertine M. E. , Peters Brian M.
Published: October 2020

While human vaginal pH in childbearing-age women is conclusively acidic, the mouse vaginal pH is reported as being near neutral. However, this information appears to be somewhat anecdotal with respect to vulvovaginal candidiasis, as such claims in the literature frequently lack citations of studies that specifically address this physiological factor. Given the disparate pH between mice and humans, the role of exogenous hormones and colonization by the fungal pathogen
Candida albicans
in shaping vaginal pH was assessed.
Burkholderia pseudomallei as an Enteric Pathogen: Identification of Virulence Factors Mediating Gastrointestinal Infection
Authors: Sanchez-Villamil Javier I. , Tapia Daniel , Borlee Grace I. , Borlee Bradley R. , Walker David H. , Torres Alfredo G.
Published: October 2020

Burkholderia pseudomalleiis a Gram-negative bacterium and the causative agent of melioidosis. Despite advances in our understanding of the disease,B. pseudomalleiposes a significant health risk, especially in regions of endemicity, where treatment requires prolonged antibiotic therapy. Even though the respiratory and percutaneous routes are well documented and considered the main ways to acquire the pathogen, the gastrointestinal tract is believed to be an underreported and underrecognized route of infection.
C-Reactive Protein Testing for Active Tuberculosis among Inpatients without HIV in Uganda: a Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Meyer Amanda J. , Ochom Emmanuel , Turimumahoro Patricia , Byanyima Patrick , Sanyu Ingvar , Lalitha Rejani , Kaswabuli Sylvia , Andama Alfred , Walter Nicholas D. , Katamba Achilles , Cattamanchi Adithya , Worodria William , Huang Laurence , Yoon Christina , Davis J. Lucian
Published: October 2020

The objective of this prospective cross-sectional study, conducted at a national referral hospital in Kampala, Uganda, was to determine diagnostic performance of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) as a triage test for tuberculosis (TB) among HIV-seronegative inpatients. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and positive and negative predictive values to determine the diagnostic performance of a CRP enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (Eurolyser) in comparison to that of a reference standard of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
culture on two sputum samples.
Cytidine Monophosphate
N
-Acetylneuraminic Acid Synthetase and Solute Carrier Family 35 Member A1 Are Required for Reovirus Binding and Infection
Authors: Urbanek Kelly , Sutherland Danica M. , Orchard Robert C. , Wilen Craig B. , Knowlton Jonathan J. , Aravamudhan Pavithra , Taylor Gwen M. , Virgin Herbert W. , Dermody Terence S.
Published: October 2020

Attachment factors and receptors are important determinants of dissemination and tropism during reovirus-induced disease. In a CRISPR cell survival screen, we discovered two genes,
Cmas
and
Slc35a1
, which encode proteins required for sialic acid expression on the cell surface and mediate reovirus infection of microglial cells. This work elucidates host genes that render microglial cells susceptible to reovirus infection and expands current understanding of the receptors on microglial cells that are engaged by reovirus. Such knowledge may lead to new strategies to selectively target microglial cells for oncolytic applications.
Enterovirus Infection Induces Massive Recruitment of All Isoforms of Small Cellular Arf GTPases to the Replication Organelles
Authors: Moghimi Seyedehmahsa , Viktorova Ekaterina , Zimina Anna , Szul Tomasz , Sztul Elizabeth , Belov George A.
Published: October 2020

Enteroviruses include many known and emerging pathogens, such as poliovirus, enteroviruses 71 and D68, and others. However, licensed vaccines are available only against poliovirus and enterovirus 71, and specific anti-enterovirus therapeutics are lacking. Enterovirus infection induces the massive remodeling of intracellular membranes and the development of specialized domains harboring viral replication complexes, replication organelles. Here, we investigated the roles of small Arf GTPases during enterovirus infection. Arfs control distinct steps in intracellular membrane traffic, and one of the Arf-activating proteins, GBF1, is a cellular factor required for enterovirus replication. We found that all Arfs expressed in human cells, including Arf6, normally associated with the plasma membrane, are recruited to the replication organelles and that Arf1 appears to be the most important Arf for enterovirus replication. These results document the rewiring of the cellular membrane pathways in infected cells and may provide new ways of controlling enterovirus infections.
Intraoral midline mandibulotomy to improve access for transoral robotic surgery (TORS) base of tongue resection in a retrognathic and microstomic patient
Authors: Bestourous Daniel , Michel Margaret , Badger Christopher , Thakkar Punam , Joshi Arjun S
Published: October 2020

A 74-year-old man was referred to a tertiary academic otolaryngology clinic for evaluation of a left-sided neck mass with unknown primary. Nuclear imaging modalities revealed a primary cancer located at the left tongue base. Further investigation revealed the tumour to be a p16 positive squamous cell cancer with metastatic spread to cervical lymph nodes of multiple levels. The patient was found on initial investigation to have microstomia and a retrognathic mandible, which are typically considered unsuitable for robotic surgery due to difficulties obtaining adequate exposure.

The patient underwent bilateral neck dissection, followed by transoral robotic-assisted left base of tongue resection. A midline intraoral mandibulotomy was performed to improve robotic access. Following tumour resection, the mandible was repaired using open reduction with internal plate fixation. Postoperative occlusion was maintained, and the patient recovered well from mandibulotomy with none of the morbidity or cosmetic defects associated with a traditional lip-split approach.
Non-osseous soft tissue metastasis in the foot from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Rehman Shabnam
Published: October 2020

Metastatic tumours of the distal extremities, also known as acrometastases, are rare. The majority of the acrometastases involve bones—involvement of the soft tissues of the feet and hands is extremely rare. We report a case of clear cell renal cell carcinoma metastasised to the soft tissues of the foot. The patient presented with pain and swelling in his right foot. Diagnosis of acrometastases frequently gets delayed due to the rarity of this condition and resultant low clinical suspicion. Possibility of metastatic disease should be entertained as an important differential diagnosis when patients with a history of cancer present with musculoskeletal symptoms. A systematic evaluation incorporating thorough clinical assessment, advanced imaging techniques like MRI and pathological examination is critical to establish the diagnosis.
Primary acquired melanosis (PAM) without atypia/WHO low-grade conjunctival melanocytic intraepithelial lesion over areas of oculodermal melanocytosis
Authors: Bata Bashar M , Salvi Sachin M , Mudhar Hardeep Singh
Published: October 2020

An elderly white man with a history of left oculodermal melanocytosis presented with new onset brown pigmentation of the left bulbar and inferior tarsal conjunctiva. The bulbar conjunctival pigmentation was at the level of the conjunctival epithelium and was overlying areas of typical slate-grey scleral pigmentation characteristic of oculodermal melanocytosis. Both areas of new pigmentation were biopsied. The bulbar conjunctiva revealed primary acquired melanosis (PAM) without atypia with increased melanin production and the tarsal conjunctival biopsy showed PAM without atypia sine pigmentio overlying areas of substantia propria spindle-shaped heavily pigmented melanocytes of oculodermal melanocytosis. The case report examines the relationship between the epithelial and substantia propria melanocytes and correlates the findings with what is known about this association from the dermatopathology literature.
Undiagnosed fibromuscular dysplasia in a deceased donor kidney transplant successfully treated with angioplasty
Authors: Medeiros Edward , Gohh Reginald , Merhi Basma
Published: October 2020

A 41-year-old man with end-stage renal disease received a deceased donor kidney transplant without complication. Maintenance immunosuppression consisted of tacrolimus, mycophenolate and prednisone. Two months after transplantation, his creatinine did not improve beyond 2–2.3 mg/dL, which prompted allograft biopsy. His biopsy showed tubular epithelial injury without rejection, and given concern for possible calcineurin-inhibitor toxicity, his tacrolimus was changed to sirolimus. Renal function improved, but 1 month later he presented to the hospital with seizure activity, severe hypertension, acute kidney injury and MRI findings suggestive of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Blood pressure was difficult to control, which had not been the case in the immediate posttransplant period, and addition of lisinopril worsened his renal function. Transplant renal artery stenosis was suspected, and allograft ultrasound with doppler confirmed our suspicion. The patient underwent an angiogram, showing 60% stenosis of the mid-distal transplanted renal artery. Interventional radiology successfully stented this lesion, with subsequent improvement in allograft function and blood pressure control. He did not require further intervention in follow-up.
Helicobacter pyloriinfection and micronutrient deficiency in pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Afsar Md. Nure Alam , Jhinu Zannatun Nahar , Bhuiyan Md. Aminul Islam , Islam Zhahirul , Siddiqua Towfida Jahan
Published: October 2020

Background

Over the last few years, epidemiological studies have shown that infection withHelicobacter pylorihas a major effect on micronutrient deficiency as well as on adverse pregnancy outcomes. Importantly, there are gaps in understanding the linkage ofH. pyloriinfection with micronutrients deficiency in pregnant women.

Objective

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the association betweenH. pyloriinfection and micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted for relevant articles using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus database from inception to March 2020. The OR with 95% CIs was determined by meta-analysis of data extracted from the selected studies.

Results

From 2384 primary articles, 6 studies were selected for systematic reviews and 4 studies distinctively (with 1274 participants: 553 cases and 721 controls) were selected for meta-analysis. The meta-analysed fixed effect model estimated the odds of havingH. pyloriinfection was not significantly higher among pregnant women with micronutrient deficiencies than those without deficiencies (OR=1.12, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.42, p=0.37). In the subgroup analysis, no correlation was found betweenH. pyloriinfection and vitamin B12(OR=0.74, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.21, p=0.22), folate (OR=1.07, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.58, p=0.73), and ferritin (OR=0.81, 95% CI 0.51 to 1.31, p=0.4). However, a positive correlation was found between iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) andH. pyloriinfection (OR=16.23, 95% CI 4.19 to 62.93, p<0.0001) during pregnancy.

Conclusion

H. pyloriinfection is associated with increased risk of IDA but not with deficiency of other micronutrients in pregnancy.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019135683.
Enhanced antitumor immunity through sequential targeting of PI3Kδ and LAG3
Authors: Lauder Sarah Nicol , Smart Kathryn , Kersemans Veerle , Allen Danny , Scott Jake , Pires Ana , Milutinovic Stefan , Somerville Michelle , Smart Sean , Kinchesh Paul , Lopez-Guadamillas Elena , Hughes Ellyn , Jones Emma , Scurr Martin , Godkin Andrew , Friedman Lori S , Vanhaesebroeck Bart , Gallimore Awen
Published: October 2020

Background

Despite striking successes, immunotherapies aimed at increasing cancer-specific T cell responses are unsuccessful in most patients with cancer. Inactivating regulatory T cells (Treg) by inhibiting the PI3Kδ signaling enzyme has shown promise in preclinical models of tumor immunity and is currently being tested in early phase clinical trials in solid tumors.

Methods

Mice bearing 4T1 mammary tumors were orally administered a PI3Kδ inhibitor (PI-3065) daily and tumor growth, survival and T cell infiltrate were analyzed in the tumor microenvironment. A second treatment schedule comprised PI3Kδ inhibitor with anti-LAG3 antibodies administered sequentially 10 days later.

Results

As observed in human immunotherapy trials with other agents, immunomodulation by PI3Kδ-blockade led to 4T1 tumor regressor and non-regressor mice. Tumor infiltrating T cells in regressors were metabolically fitter than those in non-regressors, with significant enrichments of antigen-specific CD8+T cells, T cell factor 1 (TCF1)+T cells and CD69−T cells, compatible with induction of a sustained tumor-specific T cell response. Treg numbers were significantly reduced in both regressor and non-regressor tumors compared with untreated tumors. The remaining Treg in non-regressor tumors were however significantly enriched with cells expressing the coinhibitory receptor LAG3, compared with Treg in regressor and untreated tumors. This striking difference prompted us to sequentially block PI3Kδ and LAG3. This combination enabled successful therapy of all mice, demonstrating the functional importance of LAG3 in non-regression of tumors on PI3Kδ inhibition therapy. Follow-up studies, performed using additional cancer cell lines, namely MC38 and CT26, indicated that a partial initial response to PI3Kδ inhibition is an essential prerequisite to a sequential therapeutic benefit of anti-LAG3 antibodies.

Conclusions

These data indicate that LAG3 is a key bottleneck to successful PI3Kδ-targeted immunotherapy and provide a rationale for combining PI3Kδ/LAG3 blockade in future clinical studies.
Deep immunophenotyping at the single-cell level identifies a combination of anti-IL-17 and checkpoint blockade as an effective treatment in a preclinical model of data-guided personalized immunotherapy
Authors: Nagaoka Koji , Shirai Masataka , Taniguchi Kiyomi , Hosoi Akihiro , Sun Changbo , Kobayashi Yukari , Maejima Kazuhiro , Fujita Masashi , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Nomura Sachiyo , Kakimi Kazuhiro
Published: October 2020

Background

Although immune checkpoint blockade is effective for several malignancies, a substantial number of patients remain refractory to treatment. The future of immunotherapy will be a personalized approach adapted to each patient’s cancer-immune interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to prevent suppression of antitumor immune responses. To demonstrate the feasibility of this kind of approach, we developed combination therapy for a preclinical model guided by deep immunophenotyping of the TME.

Methods

Gastric cancer cell lines YTN2 and YTN16 were subcutaneously inoculated into C57BL/6 mice. YTN2 spontaneously regresses, while YTN16 grows progressively. Bulk RNA-Seq, single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq) and flow cytometry were performed to investigate the immunological differences in the TME of these tumors.

Results

Bulk RNA-Seq demonstrated that YTN16 tumor cells produced CCL20 and that CD8+T cell responses were impaired in these tumors relative to YTN2. We have developed a vertical flow array chip (VFAC) for targeted scRNA-Seq to identify unique subtypes of T cells by employing a panel of genes reflecting T cell phenotypes and functions. CD8+T cell dysfunction (cytotoxicity, proliferation and the recruitment of interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing cells into YTN16 tumors) was identified by targeted scRNA-Seq. The presence of IL-17-producing T cells in YTN16 tumors was confirmed by flow cytometry, which also revealed neutrophil infiltration. IL-17 blockade suppressed YTN16 tumor growth, while tumors were rejected by the combination of anti-IL-17 and anti-PD-1 (Programmed cell death protein 1) mAb treatment. Reduced neutrophil activation and enhanced expansion of neoantigen-specific CD8+T cells were observed in tumors of the mice receiving the combination therapy.

Conclusions

Deep phenotyping of YTN16 tumors identified a sequence of events on the axis CCL20->IL-17-producing cells->IL-17-neutrophil-angiogenesis->suppression of neoantigen-specific CD8+T cells which was responsible for the lack of tumor rejection. IL-17 blockade together with anti-PD-1 mAb therapy eradicated these YTN16 tumors. Thus, the deep immunological phenotyping can guide immunotherapy for the tailored treatment of each individual patient’s tumor.
Effects of metformin on disease flares in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: post hoc analyses from two randomised trials
Authors: Sun Fangfang , Geng Shikai , Wang Haiting , Wang Huijing , Liu Zhe , Wang Xiaodong , Li Ting , Wan Weiguo , Lu Liangjing , Teng Xiangyu , Morel Laurence , Ye Shuang
Published: October 2020

Objective

To confirm that metformin prevents flares in patients with SLE with low disease activity, we performed a post hoc analysis combining our previous two randomised trials.

Methods

Post hoc analyses were performed on data from the open-labelled proof-of-concept trial (n=113, ChiCTR-TRC-12002419) and placebo-controlled ‘Met Lupus’ trial (n=140,NCT02741960) comparing the efficacy of metformin versus placebo/nil add-on to standard therapy in patients with SLE with low disease activity (SELENA-SLEDAI ≤4). The primary endpoint was defined by the SELENA-SLEDAI Flare Index at 12-month follow-up. A subgroup analysis was performed.

Results

Overall, 201 eligible patients were included, with 99 allocated to metformin group and 102 allocated to the placebo/nil group. By 12 months of follow-up, 21 patients (21.2%) flared in the metformin group, as compared with 36 (35.3%) in the placebo/nil group (p=0.027, risk ratio=0.68, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.96). Subgroup analysis showed that patients with negative anti-dsDNA antibody and normal complement at baseline, and a disease duration <5 years with concomitant use of hydroxychloroquine had a better response to metformin.

Conclusion

Post hoc pooled analyses suggested that metformin reduced subsequent disease flares in patients with SLE with low disease activity, especially for serologically quiescent patients.
Crack assessment of RC beam–column joints subjected to cyclic lateral loading using acoustic emission (AE): the influence of shear links aspect
Authors: Ganasan Reventheran , Tan Chee Ghuan , Ibrahim Zainah , Muhamad Bunnori Norazura , Mohamed Nazri Fadzli , Nayaka Ramappa Ramesh
Published: October 2020

Existing reinforced concrete (RC) beam–column joints, which are designed mainly to resist gravity load, may encounter serious problems in low to moderate seismic regions. The moderate earthquake in Ranau, Malaysia, affected numerous old buildings, mainly manifesting as uncontrolled crack propagation in RC members at the beam–column joint. Effects of shear reinforcement between shear link spacing on crack formation on four RC beam–column joints were investigated under cyclic lateral loading with acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. The control specimen (BCJ-1), which was designed in BS-8110, showed more irregular cracks thus concrete cover spall was observed at an earlier drift ratio (DR) level than for other specimens with additional shear reinforcement between shear link spacing. Sudden drop of AE hits beyond 2.25% DR level with a significant increase in crack width showed that BCJ-1 was no longer able to resist higher loads due to de-bonding between reinforcement and concrete. From the rise time/amplitude against average frequency (RA-AF) graphs, the mode of failure was determined according to DR stages concerning crack characteristics.
Inhibition of angiotensin II–induced hypertrophy and cardiac dysfunction by North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
Authors: Tang Xilan , Gan Xiaohong Tracey , Jong Chian Ju , Rajapurohitam Venkatesh , Karmazyn Morris
Published: October 2020

We determined whether North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) mitigates the effect of angiotensin II on hypertrophy and heart failure. Angiotensin II (0.3 mg/kg) was administered to rats for 2 or 4 weeks in the presence or absence of ginseng pretreatment. The effect of ginseng (10 μg/mL) on angiotensin II (100 nM) – induced hypertrophy was also determined in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes. We also determined effects of ginseng on fatty acid and glucose oxidation by measuring gene and protein expression levels of key factors. Angiotensin II treatment for 2 and 4 weeks induced cardiac hypertrophy as evidenced by increased heart weights, as well as the upregulation of the hypertrophy-related fetal gene expression levels, with all effects being abolished by ginseng. Ginseng also reduced abnormalities in left ventricular function as well as the angiotensin II–induced increased blood pressure. In myocytes, ginseng abolished the hypertrophic response to angiotensin II as assessed by surface area and gene expression of molecular markers of hypertrophy. Ginseng modulated angiotensin II–induced abnormalities in gene expression and protein levels of CD36, CPT1M, Glut4, and PDK4 in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, ginseng suppresses angiotensin II–induced cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction which is related to normalization of fatty acid and glucose oxidation.
Maternal body size and age govern reproduction and offspring phenotype in the zig-zag ladybird beetle (Menochilus sexmaculatus)
Authors: Singh Shashwat , Mishra Geetanjali , Omkar
Published: October 2020

Maternal effects are possible channels through which mothers provision their offspring differentially, thereby affecting offspring phenotype. We investigated maternal effects in the zig-zag ladybird beetle (Menochilus sexmaculatus (Fabricius, 1781) = Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius, 1781)) in response to body size (induced by different feeding regimes during larval development) and their age within the reproductive cycle. Different-sized females were permitted to mate and were provided with daily-replenished ad libitum prey. After mating, reproductive output and developmental duration of offspring from different oviposition days were recorded. We hypothesized that small females would lay smaller and fewer eggs than larger females, and that egg mass would also reduce with increased maternal age. In our study, the larger mothers laid more eggs per day. Small and large mothers oviposited maximally at middle age. Maternal age did not influence the egg mass, although it was slightly higher in the case of older, larger females. Offspring from old, small and large mothers developed rapidly. This nimble development could be an adaptive strategy for the use of ephemeral aphid patches. The results of the study are indicative of this ladybird species’ ability to adjust their offspring’s life-history traits, a feature more prominent in larger females.
Temperature-dependent infection of freshwater turtle hatchlings, Emydura macquarii krefftii, inoculated with a ranavirus isolate (Bohle iridovirus, Iridoviridae)
Authors: Wirth Wytamma , Ariel Ellen
Published: October 2020

Fish, amphibians, and reptiles exhibit temperature-dependent ranaviral disease. We performed an experimental infection at four different environmental temperatures (16, 22, 28, and 34 °C) to investigate the effect of temperature on ranaviral infection in Krefft’s turtle ( Emydura macquarii krefftii). Infection rates and viral loads were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction to detect ranaviral DNA in liver samples at 21 d postexposure. The rate of infection differed across the temperature treatment groups. Infection rates were 44%, 90%, 60%, and 10% for the 16, 22, 28, and 34 °C temperature groups, respectively. Highest viral load was observed in the 28 °C temperature group, and there was a statistically significant difference in viral load between the 16 and 28 °C temperature groups ( p = 0.027). Based on the results of this study, the temperature of maximal infection rate for ranaviral infection in Krefft’s river turtles is estimated to be 23.2 °C (SD = 4.5). The findings of this study can inform management decisions in terms of disease control and treatment and form a platform for modelling disease outbreaks.
Effect of brane tension on reheating parameters in small field inflation according to Planck-2018 data
Authors: Sakhi Z. , El Bourakadi K. , Safsafi A. , Ferricha-Alami M. , Chakir H. , Bennai M.
Published: October 2020

We study a new reheating approach in the framework of standard and braneworld inflation. Using the technique developed in Ref. 1, we consider a small field arctangent potential and show that this approach can be similarly applied within Randall–Sundrum type 2 scenario and provide additional constraints to reheating temperature [Formula: see text] and duration of reheating [Formula: see text]. We found that in brane case the effective equation-of-state parameter [Formula: see text] must be close to 1, to satisfy Planck-2018 joint constraints on [Formula: see text].
The entropy evolution of a noncommutative black hole under Hawking radiation
Authors: Wen Peng , Wang Xin-Yang , Liu Wen-Biao
Published: October 2020

By calculating the entropy of a scalar field in the interior volume of noncommutative black holes and considering an infinitesimal process of Hawking radiation, a proportion function is constructed that reflects the evolution relation between the scalar field entropy and Bekenstein–Hawking entropy under Hawking radiation. Comparing with the case of Schwarzschild black holes, the new physics of this research can be expanded to the later stage of Hawking radiation. From the result, we find that the proportion function is still a constant in the earlier stage of Hawking radiation, which is identical to the case of Schwarzschild black holes. As Hawking radiation goes into the later stage, the behavior of the function will be dominated by the noncommutative effect. In this circumstance, the proportion function is no longer a constant and decreases with the evaporation process. When the noncommutative black hole evolves into its final state with Hawking radiation, the interior volume will converge to a certain value, which implies that the loss of information of the black hole during the evaporation process will finally be stored in the limited interior volume.
Thermal effects of the nonuniform magnetic force on nanofluid stream along the convergent tube: A computational study
Authors: Hassanvand A. , Abazari Amir Musa , Moradi R. , Shafee Ahmad
Published: October 2020

In this research study, computational investigations are prepared to demonstrate the influence of the nonhomogeny magnetic source on the thermal efficiency of the convergent tube with the nanofluid flow. The major attention of our examination is to analyze the flow stream and temperature spreading on the average Nusselt number of the base fluid with Fe2O3 nanoparticles. The effects of inlet velocity and magnetic intensity on the thermal characteristics of nanofluid stream through the convergent tube are fully investigated. SIMPLEC algorithm is used for the imitation of the incompressible nanofluid flow inside the convergent tube. Our results indicate that growing Reynolds number from 50 to 100 surges heat rates up to 18% in the convergent tube because of the existence of the magnetic field in the vicinity of the tube.
Quandle Module Quivers
Authors: Istanbouli Karma , Nelson Sam
Published: October 2020

We enhance the quandle coloring quiver invariant of oriented knots and links with quandle modules. This results in a two-variable polynomial invariant which specializes to the previous quandle module polynomial invariant as well as to the quandle counting invariant. We provide example computations to show that the enhancement is proper in the sense that it distinguishes knots and links with the same quandle module polynomial.
POLYMER BRUSH-INDUCED ELECTROLESS COPPER PLATING TO FABRICATE Cu/CaCO3 COMPOSITE POWDER
Authors: LI QIHONG , QIN GUANGCHAO , HUANG JUNJUN , GUI CHENGMEI , BEI JINGUO , HUANG HUABIN , LI PENG , DONG QIANG , CHEN ZHENMING
Published: October 2020

Electroless plating can be used to prepare metal particle/CaCO3 composite powder, but the use of noble metal as catalytic site would increase the cost. In this work, we adopt the combined 3-amino-propyltriethoxysilane (KH550) modification and NiCl2 activation to coat CaCO3 powder by a uniform layer of Ni particles/polymer brush which acts as non-noble metal catalyst, then, a low-cost electroless plating to prepare Cu particle/CaCO3 composite powder was developed. Results showed hydrolyzed KH550 coated on the CaCO3 surface in the form of polymer brush. The active group on the polymer brush surface could chemisorb Ni[Formula: see text] and then Ni particles/polymer brush was attached on its surface. The Ni particle/polymer brush structure acted as catalytic site and could catalyze electroless copper plating on its surface. The [Formula: see text] is 1%, its average diameter is about 100[Formula: see text]nm. This means that the dependable technology has great potential application in preparing metal inorganic powder at a low cost.
UNVEILING THE DIVERSITY OF SCHOLARLY DEBATE ON LIVING LABS: A BIBLIOMETRIC APPROACH
Authors: GREVE KATHARINA , LEMINEN SEPPO , DE VITA RICCARDO , WESTERLUND MIKA
Published: October 2020

Living labs (LLs) are becoming an increasingly popular approach to engage in open innovation. Although applications and influence of LLs have grown rapidly over the last decade, the landscape of LL research remains largely unclear and underexplored. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop a consolidated understanding of this research field and to detect the potential areas of fragmentation and isolation. Through a systematic review of the scholarly literature on LLs, this study applies bibliometric methods on a dataset of 411 journal articles. The results of this study reveal the diverse and fragmented nature of the LL field, with contributions spanning across different disciplines and application domains. Despite such fragmentation, some clusters of scholars and publications are identified as well as influential contributions. Given the nascent state of the literature, the role of special issues in shaping the evolution of the LL debate is prominent. This study provides a map to practitioners to investigate and learn from the application of LLs in diverse fields. This aspect is particularly important in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, which stresses the key role of open and collaborative approaches to innovation, making the use of LLs increasingly relevant for governments, companies, public organisations and individuals.