bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-Reversible Chaotic System with Conditional Symmetry
Authors: Li Chunbiao , Sprott Julien Clinton , Liu Yongjian
Published: May 2020

When the polarity reversal induced by offset boosting is considered, a new regime of a time-reversible chaotic system with conditional symmetry is found, and some new time-reversible systems are revealed based on multiple dimensional offset boosting. Numerical analysis shows that the system attractor and repellor have their own dynamics in respective time domains which constitutes the fundamental property in a time-reversible system. More remarkably, when the conditional symmetry is destroyed by a slightly mismatched offset controller, the system undergoes different bifurcations to chaos, and the corresponding coexisting attractors and repellors shape their own phase trajectories.
Positive Solutions of a Predator–Prey Model with Additive Allee Effect
Authors: Zhang Conghui , Yuan Hailong
Published: May 2020

This paper deals with the positive solutions of a predator–prey model with additive Allee effect under Neumann boundary conditions. By applying the bifurcation theory, we provide a proof of the existence of local bifurcation solutions and describe the global behavior of these solutions. The result shows that the bifurcation curves can be extended infinitely along [Formula: see text] in the one-dimensional case. Moreover, the limiting behavior of the steady states is clarified using a shadow system approach. It appears that the shadow system exists with a positive solution and it can go into a terminal point when the parameter [Formula: see text] is sufficiently large.
Period-1 Motion to Chaos in a Nonlinear Flexible Rotor System
Authors: Xu Yeyin , Chen Zhaobo , Luo Albert C. J.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a bifurcation tree of period-1 motion to chaos in a flexible nonlinear rotor system is presented through period-1 to period-8 motions. Stable and unstable periodic motions on the bifurcation tree in the flexible rotor system are achieved semi-analytically, and the corresponding stability and bifurcation of the periodic motions are analyzed by eigenvalue analysis. On the bifurcation tree, the appearance and vanishing of jumping phenomena of periodic motions are generated by saddle-node bifurcations, and quasi-periodic motions are induced by Neimark bifurcations. Period-doubling bifurcations of periodic motions are for developing cascaded bifurcation trees, however, the birth of new periodic motions are based on the saddle-node bifurcation. For a better understanding of periodic motions on the bifurcation tree, nonlinear harmonic amplitude characteristics of periodic motions are presented. Numerical simulations of periodic motions are performed for the verification of semi-analytical predictions. From such a study, nonlinear Jeffcott rotor possesses complex periodic motions. Such results can help one detect and control complex motions in rotor systems for industry.
Theoretical progress on production of isotopes in the multinucleon transfer process
Authors: Zhu Long , Li Cheng , Guo Chen-Chen , Su Jun , Wen Pei-Wei , Zhang Gen , Zhang Feng-Shou
Published: May 2020

As one promising approach for producing nuclei beyond the [Formula: see text]-stability line, the multinucleon transfer (MNT) process has been extensively investigated in past decades. An overview of the theoretical progress on production of isotopes in MNT process is presented. The dinuclear system model, one hybrid approach (GRAZING+DNS model), the improved quantum molecule dynamic model, and the model based on the Langevin equations are summarized. The nucleon transfer mechanisms, such as effects of quasi-elastic and deep inelastic collisions, energy dissipation, [Formula: see text] equilibration, and shell structure in collisions of two complex nuclei are discussed. We present the progress on production of the exotic nuclei near the neutron-drip line, the neutron-rich isotopes near [Formula: see text], and the transuranium nuclei.
AN ADAPTIVE IMAGE SCALING ALGORITHM BASED ON CONTINUOUS FRACTION INTERPOLATION AND MULTI-RESOLUTION HIERARCHY PROCESSING
Authors: JIN JIANGANG
Published: May 2020

Traditional interpolation algorithms often blur the edges of the target image due to low-pass filtering effects, making it difficult to obtain satisfactory visual effects. Especially when the reduction ratio becomes small, the phenomenon of jagged edges and partial information loss will occur. In order to obtain better image scaling quality, an adaptive image scaling algorithm based on continuous fraction interpolation and multi-resolution hierarchical processing is proposed. In order to overcome the noise problem of the original image, this paper first performs wavelet decomposition on the original image to obtain multiple images with different resolutions. Secondly, in order to eliminate the influence of local area variance on the overall image, weighted average is performed on images of different resolutions. Then, in order to overcome the blurring effect of the weighted average image, by calculating the variance of the three groups of pixels around the target pixel, selecting a group of pixels with the smallest variance and using the Salzer continuous fraction interpolation equation to obtain the gray value of the target pixel. Finally, the multiple corrected images are stitched together into a scaled image. The algorithm in this paper achieves a high-order smooth transition between pixels in the same feature area, and can also adaptively modify the pixels of the image. The experimental results show that the edge of the target image obtained by the algorithm in this paper is clear, and the algorithm complexity is low, which is convenient for hardware implementation and can realize real-time image scaling.
Co(OH)2 ELECTROCATALYST DECORATED ON TiO2 FILM FOR ENHANCED PHOTOELECTROCATALYTIC WATER OXIDATION
Authors: LI HONGXIA , YANG CHAO , ZHANG JIAN , LIU XIANGUO , ZHANG XUEFENG
Published: May 2020

Recently, Co(OH)2 has gained much attention as a promising electrocatalyst. Herein, we synthesized Co(OH)2-decorated TiO2 film for electrocatalytic water splitting by a facile and low-cost electrochemistry method, which possessed enhanced performance for oxygen evolution reaction. The results of X-ray diffractometry, transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy verify the successful decoration of Co(OH)2 electrocatalysts onto the surface of TiO2. Moreover, photoelectrocatalytic measurements illustrate that the Co(OH)2-decorated TiO2 shows higher current density than pure TiO2 sample. The results obtained in this work give deep insights into the development of photoelectrochemical water splitting.
OPTIMAL DIVIDEND POLICY AND STOCK PRICES
Authors: LI WEIPING
Published: May 2020

We model a corporation dividend as an exchange option on stochastic cash flow and capital budge. Then we solve optimal dividend policy problem completely based on the dividend model under the assumption that the cash reservoir of a corporation follows a mean reverting process from empirical evidence and economic arguments. Our optimal dividend controls depend on explicitly with the cash flow and the capital budget of the corporation, and maximizes the HARA utility performance. We specify the unique optimal dividend control for the cash flow and the capital budge. Multiplicity or absence of optimal dividend policies are given. The stock price of the corporation is studied in terms of our stochastic dividend model. We find an explicit relation among the volatility of the stock price, the volatility of the cash flow and the volatility of the capital budget. The ex-dividend stock price is positively proportional to the stochastic cash flow and the probability of the dividend delta with respect to the cash flow, and negatively proportional to the capital budget and the probability of the dividend delta with respect to the capital budget. Hence, our approach provides another passage through which countercyclical volatility of the stock price can arise from the countercyclical cash flow and capital budget directly.
VALIDITY OF A FBG-BASED SMART SOCK SYSTEM FOR MEASURING TOE GRIP FUNCTION IN HUMAN FOOT
Authors: LEOW YIXUAN , HENG MARABELLE LI-WEN , LIU YIMIN , FONG DANIEL T. P. , CHAN CHI CHIU , KONG PUI WAH
Published: May 2020

This study developed a smart sock system using optical fiber technology to measure the toe grip function of individual toes. The system comprised Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors incorporated into a sock garment for measuring maximum toe flexion displacements. Calibration equation of each FBG sensor was determined from 3D motion capture system on 10 female subjects. The validity of the smart sock system was checked by comparing maximum toe flexion displacement against the gold standard of 3D motion capture. The root mean squared error was 0.95 (0.57) cm across 10 toes. The magnitude of toe displacement and error was similar between the left and right feet. In conclusion, the FBG-based smart sock system can successfully measure maximum toe flexion displacements of individual toes simultaneously. This system can be developed to support the evaluation of toe grip function in clinical and field settings.
A Nonlinear Optimal Control Approach for a Lower-Limb Robotic Exoskeleton
Authors: Rigatos G. , Abbaszadeh M. , Pomares J. , Wira P.
Published: May 2020

The use of robotic limb exoskeletons is growing fast either for rehabilitation purposes or in an aim to enhance human ability for lifting heavy objects or for walking for long distances without fatigue. The paper proposes a nonlinear optimal control approach for a lower-limb robotic exoskeleton. The method has been successfully tested so far on the control problem of several types of robotic manipulators and this paper shows that it can also provide an optimal solution to the control problem of limb robotic exoskeletons. To implement this control scheme, the state-space model of the lower-limb robotic exoskeleton undergoes first approximate linearization around a temporary operating point, through first-order Taylor series expansion and through the computation of the associated Jacobian matrices. To select the feedback gains of the H-infinity controller an algebraic Riccati equation is solved at each time-step of the control method. The global stability properties of the control loop are proven through Lyapunov analysis. Finally, to implement state estimation-based feedback control, the H-infinity Kalman Filter is used as a robust state estimator.
Synthesis of Linear JTFA-Based Response Spectra for Structural Response and Seismic Reduction Measures for North-East India
Authors: Devaraj Deepa , Ramkrishnan R. , Prabu T. , Kolathayar Sreevalsa , Sitharam T. G.
Published: May 2020

North-East India (NEI) has a long history of devastating earthquakes due to the complicated tectonic setting of the region. A shortage of sufficient recorded time-histories from the region calls for a synthesis of accelerograms for dynamic analyses. In this study, a novel Joint Time-Frequency Analysis (JTFA) technique is adopted for the synthesis of accelerograms, considering the non-stationary behavior of earthquake waves. JTFA is used for analyzing the signals in a joint time and frequency domain to better understand its characteristics and synthesize signals without compromising its inherent characteristics like frequency content and amplitude. Synthetic accelerograms are developed using JTFA techniques for different magnitude and distance ranges between 5 to 6.8 and 0–480[Formula: see text]km and response spectra are developed. Synthesized generalized accelerograms and their response spectra are compared with actual signals in the same magnitude-distance ranges and were found to match. A comparison of the frequency contents of actual and synthetic signals was also carried out using Fourier Transforms and spectrograms (SPs) and was found to be in good agreement. Further, a comparative study of various earthquake reduction measures for NEI is carried out for a scenario earthquake using the synthesized data, and the best suitable structural input for the region is recommended.
A green synthesis of CISe nanocrystal ink and preparation of quantum dot sensitized solar cells
Authors: Guo Tianyu , Zhang Hui , Chen Guifeng , Long Boling , Xie Luxiao , Cheng Zishuang , Xie Xinjian , Liu Gudong , Li Wei
Published: May 2020

I–III–VI chalcopyrite copper indium selenium is one of therepresentatives of the light absorbing layer material, and is often used for a thin-film solar cell. With the development of nano-technology, CuInSe2 quantum dots (CISe QDs) which have intermediate belt and excitation effect characteristics are applied to the solar cells as an alternative of Cd- or S-based QDs. Most conventional methods for the synthesis of CISe QDs using solution involve the dangerous and environmentally unfriendly Oleylamine or phosphine coordination compounds. In this work, CISe QDs were synthesized by a green, safe and low-temperature method in triethylene glycol. Through controlling the growth temperature and time, the diameter can be adjusted from 3[Formula: see text]nm to 10[Formula: see text]nm. The samples exhibit quantum confinement effect, and have a controllable optical band gap. QDs were deposited on the surface of ZnO nanorods to obtain a photoanode, which were fabricated into quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. The device exhibits size-dependent performance. And the open circuit voltage shows a fluctuation up to 0.26[Formula: see text]V. When the size is 4[Formula: see text]nm, the short circuit current density is the largest (15[Formula: see text]mA/cm2).
Hydrothermal synthesis, characterization and gas sensing of Bi2MoxW1−xO6
Authors: Zhang Li , Song Chengwen , Zhang Xiaoxing , Shi Zhemin , Xiao Jingkun
Published: May 2020

Bi2MoxW[Formula: see text]O6 microspheres are synthesized by simple one-step hydrothermal method and the morphological characterizations are performed by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), BET, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The gas sensing of Bi2WO6, Bi2MoO6 and Bi2MoxW[Formula: see text]O6 is investigated. It can be concluded that the sensor of Bi2MoxW[Formula: see text]O6 has the same good sensitivity as pure Bi2MoO6 and Bi2WO6 to alcohol. It is noteworthy that the operating temperature of Bi2Mo[Formula: see text]W[Formula: see text]O6 is 200∘C which is lower than that of pure Bi2WO6 or Bi2MoO6 (240∘C), so Bi2MoxW[Formula: see text]O6 show its good property for alcohol gas sensing application.
Risk and Resilience in Minority Youth Populations
Authors: Marks Amy K. , Woolverton G. Alice , García Coll Cynthia
Published: May 2020

This review presents current theory and empirical research that address the interplay between risk and resilience processes among minority youth in the United States. To move the clinical sciences forward in their research and treatment approaches to solving minority–majority health and well-being disparities, ecological, intersectional, and emic (within-group) approaches must be adopted. We discuss the consequences of systematic oppression and marginalization for children in the United States, focusing primarily on research regarding xenophobia, discrimination, and racism. Lastly, we provide examples of recent interventions that take emic approaches to closing minority–majority gaps in developmental outcomes.
Novel Method for Monitoring the Electrochemical Capacitance by In Situ Impedance Spectroscopy as Indicator for Particle Cracking of Nickel-Rich NCMs: Part I. Theory and Validation
Authors: Oswald Stefan , Pritzl Daniel , Wetjen Morten , Gasteiger Hubert A.
Published: May 2020

Nickel-rich NCM (LiMO2, with M = Ni, Co, and Mn) cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries are being increasingly commercialized due to their high specific capacity. However, their capacity retention upon cycling is impaired by crack formation of NCM secondary agglomerates induced by the volume change upon repeated (de)lithiation that depends on the nickel content and the cutoff potential. Particle cracking leads to loss of electrical contact and enhanced side reactions caused by an increased surface area. Here, we introduce a novel method based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in blocking conditions to quantify the increase in the active material’s surface area upon cycling, utilizing the correlation between the surface area of the electrode and the electrochemical double-layer capacitance that is validated experimentally by comparing the capacitance and BET surface area increase of NCM electrodes upon mechanical compression. To quantify the cracking of the particles upon 200 charge/discharge cycles, we perform in situ EIS measurements utilizing a micro-reference electrode and monitor the cathode’s impedance response. In addition, the crack formation of cycled NCM particles is validated visually by post mortem FIB-SEM. The effect of volume change on cracking is illuminated through the analysis of LFP and LTO as model materials.
Cytosolic DNA sensor cGAS plays an essential pathogenetic role in pressure overload-induced heart failure
Authors: Hu Dan , Cui Yu-Xia , Wu Man-Yan , Li Long , Su Li-Na , Lian Zheng , Chen Hong
Published: May 2020

In this study, we first revealed a novel role of cGAS in the regulation of pathological cardiac remodeling and dysfunction upon pressure overload. We found that the cGAS/STING pathway was activated during pressure overload. Moreover, we also demonstrated that inhibition of the cGAS/STING pathway alleviated pathological cardiac remodeling and downregulated the early inflammatory response during pressure overload-induced HF. Together, these findings will provide a new therapeutic target for HF.
Exercise training ameliorates cerebrovascular dysfunction in a murine model of Alzheimer’s disease: role of the P2Y2 receptor and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Hong Junyoung , Hong Soon-Gook , Lee Jonghae , Park Joon-Young , Eriksen Jason L. , Rooney Bridgette V. , Park Yoonjung
Published: May 2020

A limited study has investigated whether exercise training can improve cerebrovascular function in Alzheimer's disease. The novel findings of the study are that exercise training improves cerebrovascular dysfunction through enhancing P2Y2 receptor-mediated eNOS signaling and reducing ER stress-associated pathways in AD. These data suggest that exercise training, which regulates P2Y2 receptor and ER stress in AD brain, is a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.
Human Type I Interferon Antiviral Effects in Respiratory and Reemerging Viral Infections
Authors: Acosta Patricio L. , Byrne Alana B. , Hijano Diego R. , Talarico Laura B.
Published: May 2020

Type I interferons (IFN-I) are a group of related proteins that help regulate the activity of the immune system and play a key role in host defense against viral infections. Upon infection, the IFN-I are rapidly secreted and induce a wide range of effects that not only act upon innate immune cells but also modulate the adaptive immune system. While IFN-I and many IFN stimulated genes are well-known for their protective antiviral role, recent studies have associated them with potential pathogenic functions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the complex effects of human IFN-I responses in respiratory as well as reemerging flavivirus infections of public health significance and the molecular mechanisms by which viral proteins antagonize the establishment of an antiviral host defense. Antiviral effects and immune modulation of IFN-stimulated genes is discussed in resisting and controlling pathogens. Understanding the mechanisms of these processes will be crucial in determining how viral replication can be effectively controlled and in developing safe and effective vaccines and novel therapeutic strategies.
TRPV Subfamily (TRPV2, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPV5, and TRPV6) Gene and Protein Expression in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Toledo Mauriño Joel J. , Fonseca-Camarillo Gabriela , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette , Barreto-Zuñiga Rafael , Martínez Benítez Braulio , Granados Julio , Yamamoto-Furusho Jesus K.
Published: May 2020

Introduction. TRPVs are a group of receptors with a channel activity predominantly permeable to Ca2+. This subfamily is involved in the development of gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of the study was to characterize the gene and protein expression of the TRPV subfamily in UC patients and controls. Methods. We determined by quantitative PCR the gene expression of TRPV2, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPV5, and TRPV6 in 45 UC patients (29 active UC and 16 remission UC) and 26 noninflamed controls. Protein expression was evaluated in 5 μm thick sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue from 5 customized severe active UC patients and 5 control surgical specimens. Results. TRPV2 gene expression was increased in the control group compared with active UC and remission patients (P=0.002 and P=0.05, respectively). TRPV3 gene expression was significantly higher in controls than in active UC patients (P=0.002). The gene expression of TRPV4 was significantly higher in colonic tissue from patients with remission UC compared with active UC patients (P=0.05) and controls (P=0.005). TRPV5 had significantly higher mRNA levels in a control group compared with active UC patients (P=0.02). The gene expression of TRPV6 was significantly higher in the colonic tissue from patients with active UC compared with the control group (P=0.05). The protein expression of TRPV2 was upregulated in the mucosa and submucosa from the controls compared with the UC patients (P≤0.003). The protein expression of TRPV3 and TRPV4 was upregulated in all intestinal layers from the controls compared with the UC patients (P<0.001). TRPV5 was upregulated in the submucosa and serosa from the controls vs. UC patients (P<0.001). TRPV6 was upregulated in all intestinal layers from the UC patients vs. controls (P≤0.001). Conclusion. The TRPV subfamily clearly showed a differential expression in the UC patients compared with the controls, suggesting their role in the pathophysiology of UC.
Double Stratified Mixed Convective Flow of Couple Stress Nanofluid past Inclined Stretching Cylinder Using Cattaneo-Christov Heat and Mass Flux Model
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Gadisa Gosa
Published: May 2020

In this exploration, a double stratified mixed convective flow of couple stress nanofluid past an inclined stretching cylinder using a Cattaneo-Christov heat and mass flux model is considered. The governing partial differential equation of the boundary layer flow region is reduced to its corresponding ordinary differential equation using a similarity transformation technique. Then, the numerical method called the Galerkin finite element method (GFEM) is applied to solve the proposed fluid model. We performed a grid-invariance test or grid-convergence test to confirm the convergence of the series solution. The effects of the different noteworthy variables on velocity, temperature, concentration, local skin friction, local Nusselt number, and local Sherwood number are analyzed in both graphical and tabular forms. We have compared our result with the existing results in the literature, and it is shown that GFEM is accurate and efficient. Moreover, our result shows that the velocity field is retarded when the angle of inclination enhances and the heat transfer rate is reduced with larger values of the curvature of the cylinder.
Circulating miRNAs as Biomarkers for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis in Subjects with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Jin Wei , Fei Xiang , Wang Xia , Chen Fangjie , Song Yan
Published: May 2020

Body fluids often contain freely circulating nucleic acids, many of which can be exploited as noninvasive tools for the diagnosis of cancer as well as for clinical prognostication. Identifying microRNAs (miRNAs) in subjects’ blood with various malignancies means that they can serve as novel biomarkers for prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. This study analyzed serum-circulating miRNAs as a noninvasive biomarker in subjects with PCa and subjects with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In total, 31 PCa subjects and 31 BPH subjects were included, with the BPH group serving as the control group. RT-qPCR was used to quantify the levels of 10 miRNAs, which included miR-18a, miR-34a, miR-106b, miR-183, miR-200a, miR-301a, miR-141, miR-182, miR-200b, and miR-375 in serum. Statistical tests were used to assess the relationship between the levels of miRNAs and the clinicopathological data. A significant increase was observed in the relative expression ratios of miR-141, miR-182, miR-200b, and miR-375 (1.89-, 2.09-, 2.41-, and 2.27-folds, respectively) in the PCa group when compared to the BPH group. Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the largest area under the curve (AUC), 0.923, was associated with the miR-200b group, indicating effective diagnostic properties for this biomarker. A correlation was observed between total prostate-specific antigen (TPSA) and the relative levels of miR-141, miR-182, miR-200b, and miR-375. The Gleason score and the miR-200b expression level were also correlated. These results are consistent with previous studies regarding the possibility of differentiating between PCa subjects and healthy controls based on the detection of miRNA. The findings attest to a distinctive expression profile of miRNA that is detectable in the blood of PCa subjects, thereby confirming the role of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for PCa.
Impact of Carriage Crowding Level on Bus Dwell Time: Modelling and Analysis
Authors: Bie Yiming , Wang Yunhao , Zhang Le
Published: May 2020

This paper develops two types of estimation models to quantify the impacts of carriage crowding level on bus dwell time. The first model (model I) takes the crowding level and the number of alighting and boarding passengers into consideration and estimates the alighting time and boarding time, respectively. The second model (model II) adopts almost the same regression method, except that the impact of crowding on dwell time is neglected. The analysis was conducted along two major bus routes in Harbin, China, by collecting 640 groups of dwell times under crowded condition manually. Compared with model II, the mean absolute error (MAE) of model I is reduced by 137.51%, which indicates that the accuracy of bus dwell time estimation could be highly improved by introducing carriage crowding level into the model. Meanwhile, the MAE of model I is about 3.9 seconds, which is acceptable in travel time estimation and bus schedule.
A Deep Multiscale Fusion Method via Low-Rank Sparse Decomposition for Object Saliency Detection Based on Urban Data in Optical Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Zhang Cheng , He Dan
Published: May 2020

The urban data provides a wealth of information that can support the life and work for people. In this work, we research the object saliency detection in optical remote sensing images, which is conducive to the interpretation of urban scenes. Saliency detection selects the regions with important information in the remote sensing images, which severely imitates the human visual system. It plays a powerful role in other image processing. It has successfully made great achievements in change detection, object tracking, temperature reversal, and other tasks. The traditional method has some disadvantages such as poor robustness and high computational complexity. Therefore, this paper proposes a deep multiscale fusion method via low-rank sparse decomposition for object saliency detection in optical remote sensing images. First, we execute multiscale segmentation for remote sensing images. Then, we calculate the saliency value, and the proposal region is generated. The superpixel blocks of the remaining proposal regions of the segmentation map are input into the convolutional neural network. By extracting the depth feature, the saliency value is calculated and the proposal regions are updated. The feature transformation matrix is obtained based on the gradient descent method, and the high-level semantic prior knowledge is obtained by using the convolutional neural network. The process is iterated continuously to obtain the saliency map at each scale. The low-rank sparse decomposition of the transformed matrix is carried out by robust principal component analysis. Finally, the weight cellular automata method is utilized to fuse the multiscale saliency graphs and the saliency map calculated according to the sparse noise obtained by decomposition. Meanwhile, the object priors knowledge can filter most of the background information, reduce unnecessary depth feature extraction, and meaningfully improve the saliency detection rate. The experiment results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the detection effect compared to other deep learning methods.
The Four-Kallikrein Panel Is Effective in Identifying Aggressive Prostate Cancer in a Multiethnic Population
Authors: Darst Burcu F. , Chou Alisha , Wan Peggy , Pooler Loreall , Sheng Xin , Vertosick Emily A. , Conti David V. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Le Marchand Loïc , Vickers Andrew J. , Lilja Hans G. , Haiman Christopher A.
Published: May 2020

Background:

The four-kallikrein (4K) panel has been demonstrated to improve prediction of aggressive prostate cancer compared with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) among men with moderately elevated PSA levels. However, the development and testing of the 4K panel has been conducted primarily in White men, with limited data in African Americans and no studies in other racial and ethnic groups.

Methods:

We evaluated the 4K panel in a nested case–control study among African American, Latino, Japanese, Native Hawaiian, and White men in the Multiethnic Cohort. Prediagnostic blood levels of free, intact, and total PSA and human kallikrein-related peptidase 2 were measured among 1,667 incident prostate cancer cases and 691 controls with PSA ≥2 ng/mL. We evaluated the discriminative ability of the 4K panel within and across all racial/ethnic groups.

Results:

The 4K panel enhanced discrimination of overall prostate cancer compared with free plus total PSA and total PSA alone (AUC 0.748 vs. 0.711 and 0.669, respectively). Discrimination was further enhanced for Gleason 8+ prostate cancer, aggressive prostate cancer, and death due to prostate cancer, and to a lesser degree for nonaggressive prostate cancer. Improvement of the 4K panel over PSA was observed in each population. Adding a prostate cancer polygenic risk score slightly improved upon the discriminative ability of the 4K panel.

Conclusions:

The superior discriminative ability of the 4K panel over PSA for overall and aggressive prostate cancer across multiethnic populations indicates the broad clinical applicability of the 4K panel.

Impact:

Our multiethnic investigation suggests potential for the 4K panel to improve current prostate cancer screening practices.
Increasing Incidence of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors among Racial/Ethnic Minorities in the United States
Authors: Ghazarian Armen A. , McGlynn Katherine A.
Published: May 2020

Background:

The incidence of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) has been rising in the United States and is notably higher among white men. Previously, our group reported that rates were rising among Hispanic men in certain areas. This study sought to determine whether the patterns noted in our prior publication remained evident in more recent years and to determine whether any new patterns have emerged.

Methods:

Data from 51 U.S. cancer registries were examined. Racial/ethnic-specific incidence rates per 100,000 man-years were calculated overall and by census region. Annual percent changes (APC) were estimated, and joinpoint models were fit. Differences in regional incidence were examined using the Wald test.

Results:

During the time period 2001 to 2016, 126,575 TGCTs were recorded. TGCT incidence was highest among non-Hispanic whites (NHW; 6.63/100,000), followed by Hispanics (4.20), American Indian/Alaska Natives (AI/AN; 3.27), Asian/Pacific Islanders (A/PI; 1.72), and non-Hispanic blacks (NHB; 1.27). TGCT incidence increased significantly among all men; the greatest increase was experienced by A/PIs (APC: 2.47), followed in order by Hispanics (2.10), AI/ANs (1.71), NHBs (1.28), and NHWs (0.41). Significant differences in rates by region were seen for all men except NHBs, with the highest rates among Hispanics (5.38/100,000), AI/ANs (4.47), and A/PIs (2.37) found in the West, and among NHWs (7.60) and NHBs (1.51) found in the Northeast.

Conclusions:

Although TGCT incidence remained highest among NHWs between 2001 and 2016, the greatest increase was experienced by A/PI men.

Impact:

Rising rates of TGCTs among men of all racial/ethnic backgrounds in the United States suggest that future attention is warranted.
Impact of Histopathological Prostate Inflammation on Urine-Based Prostate Cancer Prediction Using the Prostate Cancer Gene 3 Score
Authors: Hennenlotter Jörg , Neumann Tim , Perner Sven , Wagner Viktoria , Stenzl Arnulf , Todenhöfer Tilman , Rausch Steffen
Published: May 2020

Introduction: The Prostate Cancer gene 3 (PCA3) urine test has gained importance in the diagnostic workup of prostate cancer (PC). Limited evidence suggests that PCA3 is not altered in the presence of inflammation. Objective: To assess the impact of histological inflammation on PCA3. Methods: PCA3 was evaluated in patients prior to prostate biopsy (n = 193) and to radical prostatectomy (n = 197). In patients without PC, inflammation was assessed and quantified by individual scores integrating grade and extent. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact of inflammation grade on PCA3. Results: The PCA3 scores prior to prostatectomy were lower (median 45) than those before positive biopsy (57; p = 0.008). Of 101 negative biopsies, 78% showed inflammation. The median PCA3 scores in the groups with no inflammation and with maximum grade 1 (n = 22), 2 (n = 38), and 3 (n = 19) inflammation were 45, 38, 27, and 25 (p = 0.016). The multivariate models revealed a decrease in PCA3 proportional to the grade and extent of inflammation (p < 0.04 each). Conclusions: The present data imply that the PCA3 score decreases in the presence of inflammation, which is relevant, for instance, to testing after a recently performed biopsy. In general, inflammation should be regarded as a factor putatively influencing PCA3 and other available and upcoming PC tests.
Psychometric Cognitive Decline Precedes the Advent of Subjective Cognitive Decline in the Evolution of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Reisberg Barry , Shao Yongzhao , Moosavi Mesum , Kenowsky Sunnie , Vedvyas Alok , Marsh Karyn , Bao Jia , Buj Maja , Torossian Carol , Kluger Alan , Vedvyas Gaurav , Oo Thet , Malik Fawad , Arain Fauzia , Masurkar Arjun V. , Wisniewski Thomas
Published: May 2020

Background: We have described the clinical stages of the brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) continuum. In terms of the pre-dementia stages of AD, we introduced the terminology “mild cognitive impairment” (MCI) for the first pre-dementia stage and “subjective cognitive decline” (SCD) for the pre-MCI stage. We now report the characteristics of a pre-SCD condition eventuating in likely AD. Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize a pre-SCD condition eventuating in AD. Method: Sixty healthy persons with “no cognitive decline” (NCD) were recruited and 47 were followed (mean baseline age, 64.1 ± 8.9 years; mean follow-up time, 6.7 ± 3.1 years). Outcome was determined at the final assessment prior to 2002 as “decliner,” if SCD or worse, or “nondecliner” if NCD. Results: After controlling for age, gender, years of education, and follow-up time, there was a between-group difference in the decline rate (p < 0.001). Also, after controlling for demographic variables and follow-up time, the combinatorial psychometric score was lower at baseline in the future decliners (p = 0.035). Of the 9 psychometric variables, after controlling for demographic variables and follow-up time, 3 were significantly lower at baseline in future decliners. Since AD is known to be age related and all subjects in this study were otherwise healthy, we also did an analysis without controlling for age. The combinatorial psychometric score was highly significantly better at baseline in the future nondecliners than in the future decliners (p = 0.008). Conclusion: This is ostensibly the first study to link psychometric cognitive decline to the subsequent SCD stage of eventual AD.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Prescription for Patients With Single Ventricle Physiology Enrolled in the NPC‐QIC Registry
Authors: Hansen Jesse E. , Brown David W. , Hanke Samuel P. , Bates Katherine E. , Tweddell James S. , Hill Garick , Anderson Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2020

Background

The routine use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) during palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome is controversial. We sought to describe ACEI prescription in the interstage between stage 1 palliation (stage I Norwood procedure) discharge and stage 2 palliation (stage II superior cavopulmonary anastomosis procedure) admission using the NPC‐QIC (National Pediatric Cardiology Quality Improvement Collaborative) registry.

Methods and Results

Analysis of all patients (n=2180) enrolled in NPC‐QIC from 2008 to 2016 included preoperative anatomy, risk factors, and echocardiographic data. ACEI were prescribed at stage I Norwood procedure discharge in 38% of patients. ACEI prescription declined from 2011 to 2016 compared with pre‐2010 (36.8% versus 45%;
P
=0.005) with significant variation across centers (range 7–100%;
P
<0.001) and decreased prescribing rates associated with increased center volume (
P
=0.004). There was no difference in interstage mortality (
P
=0.662), change in atrioventricular valve regurgitation (
P
=0.101), or change in ventricular dysfunction (
P
=0.134) between groups. In multivariable analysis of all patients, atrioventricular septal defect (odds ratio [OR], 1.84; 95% CI, 1.28–2.65) or double outlet right ventricle (OR, 1.47; CI, 1.02–2.11), and preoperative mechanical ventilation (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.12–1.68) were associated with increased ACEI prescription. In multivariable analysis of patients with complete echocardiographic data (n=812), ACEI prescription was more common with at least moderate atrioventricular valve regurgitation (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.22–2.31).

Conclusions

ACEI prescription remains common in the interstage despite limited evidence of benefit. ACEI prescription is associated with preoperative mechanical ventilation, double outlet right ventricle, and atrioventricular valve regurgitation with marked inter‐center variation. ACEI prescription is not associated with reduction in mortality, ventricular dysfunction, or atrioventricular valve regurgitation during the interstage.
Age, Sex, and Valve Phenotype Differences in Fibro‐Calcific Remodeling of Calcified Aortic Valve
Authors: Voisine Martine , Hervault Maxime , Shen Mylène , Boilard Anne‐Julie , Filion Benoît , Rosa Mickael , Bossé Yohan , Mathieu Patrick , Côté Nancy , Clavel Marie‐Annick
Published: May 2020

Background

In calcific aortic valve disease on tricuspid aortic valves (
TAVs
), men have higher aortic valve calcification and less fibrosis than women. However, little is known in bicuspid aortic valves (
BAV
). We thus aimed to investigate the impact of age, sex, and valve phenotype (
TAVs
versus
BAVs
) on fibro‐calcific remodeling in calcific aortic valve disease.

Methods and Results

We included 2 cohorts: 411 patients who underwent multidetector computed tomography (37% women) for aortic valve calcification density assessment and 138 explanted aortic valves (histological cohort; 50% women). The cohorts were divided in younger (<60 years old) or older patients with
BAV
(≥60 years old), and
TAV
patients. In each group, women and men were matched. Women presented less aortic valve calcification density than men in each group of the multidetector computed tomography cohort (all
P
≤0.01). Moreover, in women, younger patients with BAV had the lowest aortic valve calcification density (both
P
=0.02). In multivariate analysis, aortic valve calcification density correlated with age (β estimate±standard error: 6.5±1.8;
P
=0.0004) and male sex (109.2±18.4;
P
<0.0001), and there was a trend with
TAVs
(41.5±23.0;
P
=0.07). Women presented a higher collagen content than men (77.8±10.8 versus 69.9±12.9%;
P
<0.001) in the entire cohort. In women, younger patients with BAV had denser connective tissue than
TAV
and older patients with BAV (both
P
≤0.05), while no difference was observed between men.

Conclusions

In calcific aortic valve disease, women had less calcification and more fibrotic remodeling than men, regardless of the phenotype of the valve or age of the patient. Moreover, younger women with BAVs had less valve calcification. Thus, mineralization/fibrosis of the aortic valve is likely to have sex/age‐specific mechanisms and be influenced by the valve morphology.
Investigating the Origins of Body-Disownership: the Case Study of the Gulag
Authors: Ataria Yochai
Published: May 2020

This paper describes the phenomenology of the prisoner in the Gulag. In this extreme situation, the prisoner is reduced to the body-as-an-object and, as a result, develops a strong sense of hostility towards the body. In cognitive terms, this mechanism can be defined as body-disownership.
The Significance of the EU Trust Fund for Africa on the Ugandan Refugee-Hosting Model
Authors: Juška Žygimantas
Published: May 2020

Uganda’s refugee policy is perceived by the international community to be among the most progressive in the world. It is grounded on the 2006 Refugees Act and its implementation is reinforced by three frameworks: the STA, integrated in the National Development Plan II, as well as two international approaches – CRRF and ReHope – supported by the United Nations and the World Bank. However, the sustainability of the Uganda’s refugee-hosting model is completely dependent on effective financial support from donors, which has been lacking. Indeed, the EU Trust Fund for Africa has been the primary financial tool to facilitate Uganda’s refugee policy. First, this article examines the three main frameworks of the Ugandan policy on refugees: the CRRF, ReHope and STA. Second, it scrutinises three EU projects in Uganda and discusses their relationship with the CRRF, ReHope and STA. Finally, this paper analyses the importance of the EU projects on the refugee policy in the National Development Plan III (2020–2025).
Morphological and molecular species boundaries in the Hyalella species flock of Lake Titicaca (Crustacea: Amphipoda)
Authors: Jurado-Rivera José A. , Zapelloni Francesco , Pons Joan , Juan Carlos , Jaume Damià
Published: May 2020

The Hyalella species diversity in the high-altitude water bodies of the Andean Altiplano is addressed using mitochondrial cox1 sequences and implementing different molecular species delimitation criteria. We have recorded the presence of five major genetic lineages in the Altiplano, of which one seems to be exclusive to Lake Titicaca and nearby areas, whereas the rest occur also in other regions of South America. Eleven out of 36 South American entities diagnosed by molecular delimitation criteria in our study are likely endemic to the Titicaca and neighbouring water bodies. We have detected a remarkable disagreement between morphology and genetic data in the Titicacan Hyalella, with occurrence of several cases of the same morpho-species corresponding to several Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs), some even distantly related, and other instances where a particular MOTU is shared by a morphologically heterogeneous array of species, including species with body smooth and others with body heavily armoured. Species diversification and incongruence between morphological and molecular boundaries within this species assemblage may be associated to the sharp changes in hydrological conditions experienced by the water bodies of the Altiplano in the past, which included dramatic fluctuations in water level and salinity of Lake Titicaca. Such environmental shifts could have triggered rapid morphological changes and ecological differentiation within the Hyalella assemblage, followed by phenotypic convergence among the diverse lineages. Factors such as phenotypic plasticity, incomplete lineage sorting or admixture between divergent lineages might lie also at the root of the morphological-genetic incongruence described herein.
Intentional Binding for Unintended Effects
Authors: Ruess Miriam , Thomaschke Roland , Kiesel Andrea
Published: May 2020

We execute most of our movements in order to elicit an intended effect. This kind of intentionality is commonly assumed to drive a temporal illusion, referred to as Intentional Binding (IB): Stimuli intentionally elicited by one’s own action (i.e., effects) are perceived as temporally earlier compared to unintentionally occurring stimuli (not elicited by one’s own action). It is currently under debate whether intentionality is necessary for IB to occur, or whether causality might be sufficient for IB to occur. In the present study, we investigated the importance of an intention for the occurrence of IB. Employing a Libet Clock paradigm, we assessed IB for effects which participants were instructed to cause by their action (i.e., intended effect) as well as for effects participants were instructed not to cause by their action (i.e., unintended effect). Both effects, the intended as well as the unintended, were subject to IB, with a Bayesian analysis favoring no difference for both effect types. This implies that even an unintended effect is subject to IB and that, thus, causality instead of intentionality might be sufficient for IB.
Caliroa slug sawflies of Japan (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae)
Authors: HARA HIDEHO , IBUKI SHINICHI
Published: May 2020

Japanese species of Caliroa (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae) are the following 13 species, five of which are described as new: C. aizankei Hara, sp. nov. from Hokkaido, C. bibaiensis Hara, sp. nov. from Hokkaido, C. cerasi (Linné, 1758), C. ibukii Hara, sp. nov. from Honshu, C. matsumotonis (Harukawa, 1919), C. nara Hara, 2011, C. nire Hara, sp. nov. from Hokkaido, C. oishii (Takeuchi, 1933), C. ouensis Hara, sp. nov. from Honshu, C. staphyleae Oishi, 1961, C. vaccini Okutani, 1965, C. varipes (Klug, 1816) and C. zelkovae Oishi, 1961. The following two new synonymies are proposed: C. quercivora Togashi, 1999, syn. nov. with C. oishii; C. sumomovora Togashi & Oishi, 1978, syn. nov. with C. zelkovae. Lectotypes are designated for C. staphyleae Oishi, 1961 and C. zelkovae Oishi, 1961. Keys to adults and larvae are given. Caliroa staphyleae and C. zelkovae are newly recorded from Hokkaido. New host records are given for C. cerasi and C. zelkovae. Caliroa annulipes (Klug, 1816) is excluded from the fauna of Japan. An additional description of C. annulipes is given. The generic characters are also discussed.
A new species of Goniurosaurus from Hainan Island, China based on molecular and morphological data (Squamata: Sauria: Eublepharidae)
Authors: ZHU XIAO-YU , SHEN CHU-ZE , LIU YUN-FEI , CHEN LIN , LI ZHENG , HE ZHU-QING
Published: May 2020

Three species of geckos in the genus Goniurosaurus have been recorded from Hainan Island in China. We describe a new species, Goniurosaurus kwanghua sp. nov. Zhu & He, bringing the number of this genus in Hainan Island to four. We conducted phylogenetic analyses with two mitochondrial genes (16S & Cytb) and two nuclear genes (RAG1 & C-MOS) to validate this new species. The new species is similar to G. hainanensis, but differs in the following characters: (1) middle section of the nuchal loop wide and posteriorly protracted, (2) wider body bands with dark markings, (3) yellow stripes on posterior side of humerus and femur, linked to the first and third body bands, respectively. The type specimens are deposited in the Museum of Biology, East China Normal University (ECNU).