bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional brain networks of patients with epilepsy exhibit pronounced multiscale periodicities, which correlate with seizure onset
Authors: Mitsis Georgios D. , Anastasiadou Maria N. , Christodoulakis Manolis , Papathanasiou Eleftherios S. , Papacostas Savvas S. , Hadjipapas Avgis
Published: January 2020

Epileptic seizure detection and prediction by using noninvasive measurements such as scalp EEG signals or invasive, intracranial recordings, has been at the heart of epilepsy studies for at least three decades. To this end, the most common approach has been to consider short‐length recordings (several seconds to a few minutes) around a seizure, aiming to identify significant changes that occur before or during seizures. An inherent assumption in this approach is the presence of a relatively constant EEG activity in the interictal period, which is interrupted by seizure occurrence. Here, we examine this assumption by using long‐duration scalp EEG data (21–94 hr) in nine patients with epilepsy, based on which we construct functional brain networks. Our results reveal that these networks vary over time in a periodic fashion, exhibiting multiple peaks at periods ranging between 1 and 24 hr. The effects of seizure onset on the functional brain network properties were found to be considerably smaller in magnitude compared to the changes due to these inherent periodic cycles. Importantly, the properties of the identified network periodic components (instantaneous phase) were found to be strongly correlated to seizure onset, especially for the periodicities around 3 and 5 hr. These correlations were found to be largely absent between EEG signal periodicities and seizure onset, suggesting that higher specificity may be achieved by using network‐based metrics. In turn, this implies that more robust seizure detection and prediction can be achieved if longer term underlying functional brain network periodic variations are taken into account.
Fractionation scheme and treatment planning method for early glottic cancer in the United States: Economic impact of different medical decisions
Authors: Moore Assaf , Den Robert B. , Popovtzer Aaron , Goldvaser Hadar , Gordon Noa , Goldstein Daniel A.
Published: January 2020

Background

Early glottic cancers are often treated with radiotherapy (RT). We assessed the economic impact of fractionation scheme and planning method for payers in the United States.

Methods

A population‐based analysis of the total cost of RT for early glottic cancers in the United States was performed annually. The target population was calculated using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. RT costs were based on 2019 pricing by Medicare.

Results

We estimate that 3794 patients with early glottic cancers are treated with RT annually. The cost of RT per patient ranges between US $13 964 and $26 599 by fractionation and planning method. Hypofractionation reduces costs by 9% to 14%, while Intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) increases costs by 65% to 72%. IMRT‐based standard fractionation leads to an excess cost of $47 937 076 compared with 3D‐based hypofractionation.

Conclusions

3D‐based hypofractionated RT is the current standard of care. It would be reasonable for public and private payers to consider evidence‐based policies for radiation reimbursement.
Monocytes as Potential Mediators of Pathogen‐Induced T‐Helper 17 Differentiation in Patients With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
Authors: Kunzmann Lilly Kristin , Schoknecht Tanja , Poch Tobias , Henze Lara , Stein Stephanie , Kriz Marvin , Grewe Ilka , Preti Max , Hartl Johannes , Pannicke Nadine , Peiseler Moritz , Sebode Marcial , Zenouzi Roman , Horvatits Thomas , Böttcher Marius , Petersen Britt‐Sabina , Weiler‐Normann Christina , Hess Leonard U. , Ahrenstorf Annika Elise , Lunemann Sebastian , Martrus Gloria , Fischer Lutz , Li Jun , Carambia Antonella , Kluwe Johannes , Huber Samuel , Lohse Ansgar W. , Franke Andre , Herkel Johannes , Schramm Christoph , Schwinge Dorothee
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

T cells from patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) show a prominent interleukin (IL)‐17 response upon stimulation with bacteria or fungi, yet the reasons for this dominant T‐helper 17 (Th17) response in PSC are not clear. Here, we analyzed the potential role of monocytes in microbial recognition and in skewing the T‐cell response toward Th17.

Approach and Results

Monocytes and T cells from blood and livers of PSC patients and controls were analyzed ex vivo and in vitro using transwell experiments with cholangiocytes. Cytokine production was measured using flow cytometry, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, RNA in situ hybridization, and quantitative real‐time PCR. Genetic polymorphisms were obtained from ImmunoChip analysis. Following ex vivo stimulation with phorbol myristate acetate/ionomycin, PSC patients showed significantly increased numbers of IL‐17A–producing peripheral blood CD4+ T cells compared to PBC patients and healthy controls, indicating increased Th17 differentiation in vivo. Upon stimulation with microbes, monocytes from PSC patients produced significantly more IL‐1β and IL‐6, cytokines known to drive Th17 cell differentiation. Moreover, microbe‐activated monocytes induced the secretion of Th17 and monocyte‐recruiting chemokines chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand (CCL)‐20 and CCL‐2 in human primary cholangiocytes. In livers of patients with PSC cirrhosis, CD14hiCD16int and CD14loCD16hi monocytes/macrophages were increased compared to alcoholic cirrhosis, and monocytes were found to be located around bile ducts.

Conclusions

PSC patients show increased Th17 differentiation already in vivo. Microbe‐stimulated monocytes drive Th17 differentiation in vitro and induce cholangiocytes to produce chemokines mediating recruitment of Th17 cells and more monocytes into portal tracts. Taken together, these results point to a pathogenic role of monocytes in patients with PSC.
Zika and women's sexual and reproductive health: Critical first steps to understand the role of gender in the Colombian epidemic
Authors: Forero‐Martínez Luz J. , Murad Rocío , Calderón‐Jaramillo Mariana , Rivillas‐García Juan C.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To describe the mechanisms of implementation of Zika virus diagnosis, prevention, and management guidelines in Colombia, and to characterize their influence on efforts to defend sexual and reproductive rights.

Methods

A qualitative study performed between February and April 2018 in three municipalities in Colombia. We conducted 30 semistructured interviews and five focus groups with key informants who played a role during the epidemic. These included decision‐makers, program coordinators, healthcare providers, pregnant women diagnosed with Zika virus, and members of affected communities.

Results

We identified barriers to and facilitators for the implementation of the national Zika virus response plan. Barriers included a lack of coordination between vector control efforts and in the realms of sexual and reproductive rights. Facilitators included healthcare providers’ response to the epidemic, the development of technical skills, and the establishment of coordination and referral networks across different institutions.

Conclusion

A multidimensional approach that considers healthcare services, gender issues, and the environment is crucial. We highlight the epidemic's effects on women's sexual and reproductive rights, mainly related to inequalities in sexual and reproductive health such as the increased risk of sexually transmitted infections experienced by the poorest and most vulnerable women.
A qualitative study of the experiences of pregnant women in accessing healthcare services during the Zika virus epidemic in Villavicencio, Colombia, 2015–2016
Authors: Gomez Hector M. , Mejia Arbelaez Carlos , Ocampo Cañas Jovana A.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To explore the perceptions and experiences of pregnant women in accessing healthcare services during the epidemic in Colombia during 2015–2016.

Methods

A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was conducted in Villavicencio. Six women who had been diagnosed with Zika virus infection during their pregnancies and whose fetus had suspected microcephaly participated in the investigation. Grounded theory was used and thematic content analysis was made for each category identified.

Results

Three main themes affecting access to healthcare services were identified: (1) women knew basic information about the virus, but it was limited; (2) access to services was delayed due to their lack of availability or limited supply in the municipality; and (3) most of the participants made out‐of‐pocket payments to get access to services that were not provided.

Conclusions

Several gaps were identified in the provision of healthcare services to pregnant women during the Zika epidemic. Policy makers need to utilize the results from affected communities to develop and implement public policies that adapt and respond to their priorities and needs.
Hematological factors associated with immunity, inflammation, and metabolism in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: Data from a Zhuang cohort in Southwest China
Authors: Lao Xiaoxia , Ma Liping , Ma Qingwei , Ma Qiaorong , Yang Zhige , Guo Lingxiao , Nong Wenzheng
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Hematological parameters play important role in multiple diseases. This study was to investigate the possible association of the routine hematological parameters involved in immunity, inflammation, and metabolism with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in patients of Zhuang ethnicity in Guangxi, southwest China.

Methods

The medical records of 195 Zhuang SLE patients between January 2013 and November 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Random forest algorithm and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the feature hematological parameters in patients with SLE. Association rules were explored between each parameter and immunity‐ (IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, and C4), inflammation‐ (ESR, hs‐CRP, and CAR), and metabolism‐ (TG, TC, HDL‐C, LDL‐C, TP, PA, ALB, and UA) related indexes.

Results

Random forest algorithm and logistic regression analysis showed that neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were the feature parameters for distinguishing SLE patients from healthy controls. According to the ROC curves, the optimal cutoff values to predict SLE were 1.98 for NLR, 13.35 for RDW, and 145.64 for PLR. Association rule analysis showed that NLR was strongly associated with C3, hs‐CRP, TG, ALB, and UA; RDW was strongly associated with C3, C4, hs‐CRP, TG, and ALB; PLR was strongly associated with IgG, hs‐CRP, HDL‐C, and UA.

Conclusions

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, RDW, and PLR may serve as effective predictors of dysregulation in immunity, inflammation, and metabolism. These three indicators may be potential for cardiovascular risk assessment in Zhuang SLE patients in southwest China.
Improved multicomponent, one‐pot synthesis of functionalized tetrahydropyrans cardiovascular dysfunction regulators
Authors: Aggile Kadirappa , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Kumar Pramod , Napoleon Ayyakannu Arumugam
Published: January 2020

A simple, efficient, and straightforward one‐pot three‐component synthesis of functionalized tetrahydropyrans (6a‐l) is carried‐out in the presence of an inexpensive and environmentally benign Eaton's reagent as a catalyst to discover some ACE inhibitors and anti‐inflammatory agents. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) is highly involved in the renin‐angiotensin system and often directly associated with cardiovascular dysfunction via inflammation. Thus, the cardiovascular protective effect of newly synthesized tetrahydropyrans (6a‐l) was evaluated through ACE inhibition, human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization, and molecular docking studies. As the results complied, compounds 6e and 6f were identified as effective ACE inhibitors. Docking studies, HRBC based anti‐inflammatory assay, and SAR studies revealed that compounds 6e and 6f could be good anti‐inflammatory agents apart from ACE inhibitors.
An investigation into the preparation of poly(1‐methylpyrol‐2‐ylsquaraine) particles
Authors: Lynch Daniel E.
Published: January 2020

Poly(1‐methylpyrol‐2‐ylsquaraine) particles can be prepared in a one‐pot reaction by refluxing equimolar amounts of squaric acid (3,4‐dihydroxycyclobut‐3‐ene‐1,2‐dione) and 1‐methylpyrrole in butan‐1‐ol and precipitate from the reaction as porous micrometer‐sized spheres that have potential use as molecular adsorbents in chromatography and sensors, as well as ion batteries. Previous papers that have examined the electrical, photophysical, and adsorption properties of these particles have reported their size and shape, with appropriate proof in the form of electron microscope images but have paid little attention as to the actual limits of the particle size and spherical formation. Thus, a range of experiments have been undertaken to examine the robustness, in terms of reaction variation, of the construction of these spheres. Reaction characteristics such as solvent, sequence in which reactants are added, reaction time, reactant concentration, and mode of reaction agitation have all been examined to determine the optimal conditions for the production of these spheres. Fortuitously, butan‐1‐ol remains the most suitable solvent, but reactant concentration is important to produce uniformly sized spherical particles with minimal interparticle growth.
Multifocal invasive mucinous carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Ferguson Melissa J.
Published: January 2020

Mucinous carcinoma accounts for approximately 2% of all breast cancer and is a rare subtype of infiltrating ductal carcinoma. It often presents as a lobulated, well‐circumscribed mass on mammography, sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging and can therefore be mistaken for a benign lesion. This case report discusses a rare case of multifocal invasive mucinous carcinoma of the breast detected on screening mammogram. The histological attributes and various imaging findings of mucinous breast cancer are then discussed.
Mirror neurons and their relationship with neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Farina Elisabetta , Borgnis Francesca , Pozzo Thierry
Published: January 2020

The finding of mirror neurons (MNs) has provided a biological substrate to a new concept of cognition, relating data on actions and perceptions not only to integrate perception in action planning and execution but also as a neural mechanism supporting a wide range of cognitive functions. Here we first summarize data on MN localization and role in primates, then we report findings in normal human subjects: functional magnetic resonance imaging and neurophysiological studies sustain that MNs have a role in motor learning and recognizing actions and intentions of others, and they also support an embodied view of language, empathy, and memory. Then, we detail the results of literature searching on MNs and embodied cognition in Parkinson's disease (PD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD)/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and in mild cognitive impairment (MCI)/Alzheimer's disease (AD). In PD the network of MN could be altered, but its hyperactivation might support motor and cognitive performances at least in early stages. In the ALS/FTD continuum, preliminary evidence points out to an involvement of the MN network, which could explain language and inter‐subjectivity deficits shown in patients affected by these clinical entities. In the MCI/AD spectrum, a few recent studies suggest a possible progressive involvement from posterior to anterior areas of the MN network, with the brain putting in place compensatory mechanisms in early stages. Reinterpreting neurodegenerative diseases at the light of the new views about brain organization stemming from the discovery of MN could help to better comprehend clinical manifestations and open new pathways to rehabilitation.
Application of non‐thermal pretreatment techniques on agricultural products prior to drying: a review
Authors: Osae Richard , Essilfie Gloria , Alolga Raphael N , Akaba Selorm , Song Xiaoqian , Owusu‐Ansah Patrick , Zhou Cunshan
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Most agricultural crops contain high moisture content (80–95% wet basis (wb)) which makes them very susceptible to microbial damage leading to shorter shelf‐life and high postharvest losses. The high perishability of these agricultural products requires preservation techniques to prolong their shelf‐lives. Drying remains an important component of processing in this regard. Therefore, any pretreatment methods for drying agricultural product that decreases the moisture content and minimizes drying time by conserving the quality of the crop product is of prime significance. This article is a comprehensive review of recent developments of non‐thermal pretreatment (NTP) methods. A summary of their significance, emerging and innovative methods of this technology together with its applications and limitations are discussed. This article further examines the environmental impact of NTP techniques.

RESULTS

NTP techniques, such as high pressure, ultrasound, pulsed electric field and osmotic dehydration methods are essential operations for pre‐dehydration of agricultural products prior to drying. These techniques can avoid the deleterious effects of heat on nutritive value, colour and flavour of agricultural products compared to thermal pretreatments. They also enhance the inactivation of the enzymes, improve energy efficiency and mass transfer, reduce processing time, preserve bioactive compounds, improve drying kinetics and drying rate, minimize enzymatic browning, and enhance product quality.

CONCLUSION

These findings will provide a better understanding of different NTP methods and also make available more information for selecting pretreatment techniques for drying of agricultural products. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Prevalence of Tinnitus and Associated Factors Among Asian Americans: Results From a National Sample
Authors: Choi Janet S. , Yu Alison J. , Voelker Courtney C. J. , Doherty Joni K. , Oghalai John S. , Fisher Laurel M.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

A previous study demonstrated low rates of high‐frequency hearing loss and noise exposure among Asian Americans (AAs). This study examined the prevalence of tinnitus and associated factors among AAs using the first nationally representative sample of AAs.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of a national health survey.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 2011 to 2012 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, during which 3,669 participants aged 20 to 69 years completed questionnaires on tinnitus (AA participants, n = 530). Tinnitus was defined as bothersome ringing lasting 5 minutes or more in the past 12 months. Prevalence of any tinnitus in the past 12 months was calculated incorporating sampling weights. Logistic regression was used to examine the associations with relevant factors.

Results

The prevalence of any tinnitus was 6.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.5‐8.6) among AAs, significantly lower than the prevalence among the overall population at 16.5% (95% CI: 14.3‐18.8]. After adjusting for audiometric hearing loss and demographics, AAs were less likely to report any tinnitus than whites (odds ratio [OR] = 0.43 [95% CI: 0.24‐0.75]), blacks (OR = 0.60 [95% CI: 0.37‐0.95]), and Hispanics (OR = 0.60 [95% CI: 0.45‐0.78]). Rates of tinnitus were not different from whites or blacks once comorbidities, noise exposure, and depression were taken into account. Among AAs, reporting exposure to work‐related noise (OR = 2.92 [95% CI: 1.15‐7.41]) and having a major depressive disorder (OR = 6.45 [95% CI: 1.15‐36.12]) were significant factors associated with tinnitus in a multivariate model.

Conclusions

The prevalence of tinnitus is significantly lower among AAs in comparison to other racial groups. Noise exposure and depression were significant factors associated with tinnitus among AAs.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 2020
Can incomplete information lead to better social outcomes?
Authors: Lahkar Ratul , Ramani Vinay
Published: January 2020

We consider a supply chain where manufacturers can be differentiated along two dimensions—product quality and cost of social responsibility effort. There are two types of manufacturers: high and low. Under complete information, high‐type manufacturers exert a greater level of social responsibility effort in comparison with the low‐type manufacturers. We then show that under incomplete information, high‐type manufacturers have an incentive to exert an even greater level of social responsibility effort. Surprisingly, the extent of effort put in by high‐type firms cannot be lower and, in some cases, can be strictly higher under incomplete information.
Study points to potential new treatment, prevention for PTSD
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2020

A Canadian research team that has identified a potential new treatment and prevention for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) says the discovery can help millions of people put trauma behind them. The study was published earlier this month in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Gut Bacterial Metabolite Urolithin A Decreases Actin Polymerization and Migration in Cancer Cells
Authors: Alauddin Md , Okumura Toshiyuki , Rajaxavier Janet , Khozooei Shayan , Pöschel Simone , Takeda Satoru , Singh Yogesh , Brucker Sara Y , Wallwiener Diethelm , Koch André , Salker Madhuri S
Published: January 2020

Scope

Urolithin A (UA) is a gut‐derived bacterial metabolite from ellagic acid found in pomegranates, berries, and nuts can downregulate cell proliferation and migration. Cell proliferation and cell motility require actin reorganization, which is under control of ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) and p21 protein‐activated kinase 1 (PAK1). The present study explores whether UA can modify actin cytoskeleton in cancer cells.

Methods

The effect of UA on globular over filamentous actin ratio is determined utilizing Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Rac1 and PAK1 levels are measured by quantitative RT‐PCR and immunoblotting. As a result, a 24 h treatment with UA (20 µm) significantly decreased Rac1 and PAK1 transcript levels and activity, depolymerized actin and wound healing. The effect of UA on actin polymerization is mimicked by pharmacological inhibition of Rac1 and PAK1. The effect is also mirrored by knock down using siRNA.

Conclusion

UA leads to disruption of Rac1 and Pak1 activity with subsequent actin depolymerization and migration. Thus, use of dietary UA in cancer prevention or as adjuvant therapy is promising.
Discrimination analysis of breast calcifications using x‐ray dark‐field radiography
Authors: Rauch Thomas , Rieger Jens , Pelzer Georg , Horn Florian , Erber Ramona , Wunderle Marius , Emons Julius , Nabieva Naiba , Fuhrich Nicole , Michel Thilo , Hartmann Arndt , Fasching Peter A. , Anton Gisela
Published: January 2020

Background

X‐ray dark‐field radiography could enhance mammography by providing more information on imaged tissue and microcalcifications. The dark field signal is a measure of small angle scattering and can thus provide additional information on the imaged materials. This information can be useful for material distinction of calcifications and the diagnosis of breast cancer by classifying benign and malign association of these calcifications.

Methods:

For this study, institutional review board approval was obtained. We present the evaluation of images acquired with interferometric grating‐based x‐ray imaging of 323 microcalcifications (166 malign and 157 benign associated) in freshly dissected breast tissue and compare the results to the information extracted in follow‐up pathological evaluation. The number of imaged calcifications is sufficiently higher than in similar previous studies. Fourteen calcification properties were extracted from the digital images and used as predictors in three different models common in discrimination analysis namely a simple threshold model, a naive Bayes model and a linear regression model, which classify the calcifications as associated with a benign or suspicious finding. Three of these fourteen predictors have been newly defined in this work and are independent from the tissue background surrounding the microcalcifications. Using these predictors no background correction is needed, as in previous works in this field. The new predictors are the length of the first and second principle component of the absorption and dark‐field data, as well as the angle between the first principle component and the dark‐field axis. We called these predictors data length, data width, and data orientation.

Results

In fourfold cross‐validation malignancy of the imaged tissue was predicted. Models that take only classical absorption predictors into account reached a sensitivity of 53.3% at a specificity of 81.1%. For a combination of predictors that also include dark field information, a sensitivity of 63.2% and specificity of 80.8% were obtained. The included dark field information consisted of the newly introduced parameters, data orientation and data width.

Conclusions

While remaining at a similar specificity, the sensitivity, with which a trained model was able to distinguish malign from benign associated calcifications, was increased by 10% on including dark‐field information. This suggests grating‐based x‐ray imaging as a promising clinical imaging method in the field of mammography.
Ownership structure and receivables management
Authors: Krishnankutty Raveesh , Jadiyappa Nemiraj
Published: January 2020

In this study, we examine the impact of ownership structure on the receivables management of Indian corporate firms. We argue that owners' incentives to monitor manager's actions increase with the increase in their stake holding. Therefore, firms with concentrated promoter and institutional ownership should have lower receivables in terms of its sales. Our results obtained using a panel of 1,164 firms show a negative relationship between the percentage of promoter holding and the receivables ratio. Further, for growing firms, both promoter and institutional shareholdings have a negative impact. However, the firm size effect did not show any impact on the relationship between ownership concentration and receivables ratio.
Preparation of high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells via doping Ag into CuO nanofibers as hole buffer layer
Authors: Zhuang Zhishan , Qiu Linlin , Dong Lika , Chen Yue , Chu Zhudan , Ma Xiangyu , Du Pingfan , Xiong Jie
Published: January 2020

Ag/CuO nanofibers (Nfs) with a diameter of 650 nm were successfully prepared via electrospinning Ag doped CuO nanofibers and then calcined at 450°C for 2 hours. By using Ag/CuO Nfs and PEDOT:PSS as the hole transport layer, an optimum perovskite solar cell power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.6% was achieved, which was 33% higher than that of the original perovskite solar cells (8.7%). The devices showed a high PCE because of the high cavity mobility of the Ag/CuO Nfs/PEDOT:PSS films. At the same time, the Ag/CuO Nfs could also slow down the hydrolysis and corrosion of the perovskite by acidic PEDOT:PSS, and increase the environmental stability of the solar cells.
Effect of Organo‐Modified Montmorillonite on the Morphology and Properties of SEBS/TPU Nanocomposites
Authors: Lu Fang , Liu Yang , Wang Fang , Mai Yu‐liang , Li Dai‐yuan
Published: January 2020

In this study, novel polystyrene‐b‐poly(ethylene‐butylene)‐b‐polystyrene (SEBS)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/organo‐modified montmorillonites (OMMT) nanocomposites were prepared by melt mixing. Three different organo‐modified montmorillonites, DK2, DK3, and DK4 (listed in descending order of hydrophilicity) were selected. The compatibilizing and reinforcing effects of OMMT on the structure, morphology, thermal stability, mechanical and rheological properties of the SEBS/TPU blends were studied. It was found that the hydrophilic DK2 nanoparticles were largely located in the continuous TPU phase and partially dispersed at the phase interphase, whereas DK3 and DK4 nanoparticles were preferentially located at the phase interface with an intercalated/exfoliated and intercalated structure, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that SEBS/TPU/OMMT nanocomposites exhibited a more densely organized and interconnected structure compared with SEBS/TPU blends. Better thermal property was achieved after adding DK3, with the tensile properties of the SEBS/TPU increased considerably. Rheological analysis revealed that hydrophilic DK2 nanoparticles were more effective in improving rheology properties and showed a more pronounced nonlinear effect. The prepared SEBS/TPU/OMMT nanocomposites displayed desired thermal, mechanical and rheological properties, which are important for many applications. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:850–859, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical and Electronic Properties of Tin Carbide Nanowires
Authors: Marcos-Viquez Alma L. , Miranda Álvaro , Cruz-Irisson Miguel , Pérez Luis A.
Published: January 2020

Herein, the mechanical and electronic properties of tin carbide nanowires (NWs) with zinc‐blende structure are theoretically investigated using density functional calculations within the generalized gradient approximation. The axes of the studied NWs, which have hexagonal cross sections of six different sizes, are taken along the [111] crystallographic direction, and their surfaces are passivated with either hydrogen or fluorine. The effects of diameter size and chemical passivation on the cohesive energy, electronic structure, and Young's modulus of the various studied NWs are discussed. Moreover, the results obtained are compared with those corresponding to silicon and silicon carbide NWs with similar structures. Finally, the adsorption of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO) molecules on tin carbide NWs is addressed.
MicroRNAs as novel targets of sulforaphane in cancer therapy: The beginning of a new tale?
Authors: Rafiei Hossein , Ashrafizadeh Milad , Ahmadi Zahra
Published: January 2020

Effective management and treatment of cancer depend on developing novel antitumor drugs with the capability of targeting various molecular pathways. Identification and subsequent targeting of these pathways are of importance in cancer therapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules responsible for post‐transcriptional regulation of genes. Notably, miRNAs participate in a number of biological processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and cell cycle regulation. So, any impairment in the expression and function of miRNAs is associated with development of disorders, particularly cancer. Naturally occurring nutraceutical compounds have attracted much attention due to their great antitumor activity. Among them, sulforaphane isolated from Brassica oleracea (broccoli) is of interest due to its therapeutic and biological activities such as antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, hepatoprotection, and cardiprotection. Sulforaphane has demonstrated great antitumor activity and is able to significantly inhibit proliferation, viability, migration, malignancy, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition of cancer cells. These antitumor effects have widely been investigated, and it appears that there is a need for a precise review to demonstrate the molecular pathway that sulforaphane follows to exert its antitumor activity. At the present review, we focus on the modulatory impact of sulforaphane on miRNAs and exhibit that how various miRNAs in different cancers are regulated by sulforaphane.
Anti‐obesity effect of plant diterpenes and their derivatives: A review
Authors: Islam Muhammad Torequl , Ali Eunus S. , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: January 2020

Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat is accumulated by a combination of excessive food intake, lack of physical activity, and genetic susceptibility. Obesity increases the risk of various diseases and conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and depression. This review focuses on most recent reports pertaining to the antiobesity activity of plant‐derived diterpenes in different databases. For this, a search (until August 2019) was conducted in the PubMed and Science Direct databases with the following keywords: “plant diterpenes” or “plant diterpenoids” paired with “obesity” or “antiobesity effects.” Overall, 729 references that used the aforementioned keywords were selected, among which 34 articles have been included in this review. Results from this search suggest that a number of diterpenes and their derivatives have been found to exert antiobesity effects through various mechanisms, such as overweight reduction or modification of body mass index, protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibition, lipase activity inhibition, antiadipogenesis effect, among others. Carnosic acid, carnosol and the derivatives of abietic acid, steviol, and andrographolide are examples of important antiobesity diterpenes and their derivatives. Of note, plant‐derived diterpenes may be potential candidates for managing obesity and obesity‐related diseases and disorders in human and other animals.
Distributed adaptive formation tracking for heterogeneous multiagent systems with multiple nonidentical leaders and without well‐informed follower
Authors: Hua Yongzhao , Dong Xiwang , Li Qingdong , Ren Zhang
Published: January 2020

This paper studies the time‐varying output formation tracking (OFT) problems for linear heterogeneous multiagent systems with multiple leaders, where both the followers and the leaders can have nonidentical dynamics and dimensions. The existing results on formation tracking with multiple leaders depend on the assumption that each follower is well‐informed or uninformed, where the well‐informed follower has all the leaders as its neighbor. To remove this assumption, a novel OFT approach is presented using a distributed observer scheme. Firstly, based on the local estimation and the interaction with neighboring followers, a fully distributed observer is designed for each follower to estimate the dynamical matrices and the states of multiple leaders without requiring the well‐informed follower assumption. The convergence of the distributed observer is proved by using Lyapunov theory. Then, an adaptive algorithm is proposed to solve the regulator equations in finite time based on the estimation of the leaders' dynamical matrices. Furthermore, the desired time‐varying output formation of each follower is generated by a local active exosystem. A time‐varying OFT protocol is presented using the estimated states of multiple leaders, the online solutions of the regulator equations, and the desired formation vector generated by the local exosystem. It is proved that the outputs of the followers can not only realize the expected formation shape but also track the predefined convex combination of multiple leaders. Finally, a simulation example is given to verify the theoretical results.
The response of anguilliform fish to underwater sound under an experimental setting
Authors: Deleau Mathias J. C. , White Paul R. , Peirson Graeme , Leighton Timothy G. , Kemp Paul S.
Published: January 2020

Traditional physical screens designed to prevent fish entering dangerous areas (e.g., turbine intakes) can have negative impacts due to impingement or mechanical abrasion at high velocities. Behavioural deterrents may provide an alternative approach to screening. This study investigated the potential for a continuous broadband sound to modify the behaviour of two endangered species of anguilliform fish: European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis). Experiments were conducted in an experimental channel. Eel and lamprey were, respectively, released upstream and downstream of an “acoustic maze”. A single individual released per trial encountered two successive chambers that offered a choice of passage through either an ensonified or a control (ambient noise only) corridor with a speaker turned off. Two possible configurations were tested to control for any lateral bias with positions of the activated speakers reversed. The influence of treatment, chamber, and configuration on route selection, rejection, and time to pass were tested. No influence of any of the three factors on route selection was observed for eel. River lamprey tended to pass through the ensonified corridor more often under Configuration 2 but only in the first chamber. Both species were more likely to reject the ensonified corridors than the controls, and the time taken to pass these routes was greater for those that did so. For eel, the variation in time to pass was greater for the non‐migratory (yellow phase) life stage. Although the acoustic signal used in this study influenced fish behaviour, the response observed would likely be insufficient to induce a strong deterrent effect in the field if used in isolation.
Theoretical Insight towards Mechanism, Role of NHC and DBU in the Synthesis of Substituted Quinolines
Authors: Shyam Abhijit , Mondal Paritosh
Published: January 2020

A plausible mechanism for the conversion of aldimine to 2‐phenyl‐4‐difluoromethylquinoline catalyzed by N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) in association with 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) is investigated in detail by using density functional theory (DFT) method. Six significant stages are proposed to be involved in the whole catalytic cycle, starting from the generation of NHC followed by its nucleophilic interaction with the carbon atom of C‐N in aldimine to generate corresponding aza‐Breslow intermediate. This aza‐Breslow intermediate further undergoes intramolecular umpolung addition followed by several proton transfers to regenerate the NHC along with 2‐phenyl‐4‐difluoromethylquinoline. The role of NHC in this intramolecular umpolung addition of aza‐Breslow intermediate has been investigated by using conceptual DFT. Apart from NHC; the role of DBU in this catalytic cycle has also been monitored carefully. These theoretical findings are in good agreement with experimental results and also provide a deeper insight into the mechanism of NHC catalyzed synthesis of 2‐phenyl‐4‐difluoromethylquinoline.
Organic‐Inorganic Composite Porous Membrane for Stable and High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Lin Wen , Jiao Jiajia , Li Hao , Li Danpeng , Zhu Taiyang , Song Jiangping , Zhao Shenqiu , Guo Weibin , Tang Haolin
Published: January 2020

The ionic conductivity of the separator is the essential parameter for performance of lithium ion batteries. Herein, we synthesize a new composite separator through coating of the mixture of poly (methyl methacrylate) and alpha alumina on the surface of commercial polyethylene separator. Benefiting from the excellent electrolyte wettability and high ionic conductivity of the poly (methyl methacrylate), the synthesized separator exhibits promising electrochemical properties. The lithium ion diffusion coefficient of the synthesized separator is 1.48×10−15 cm2 s–1, higher than that of the pristine polyethylene separator (0.808×10−15 cm2 s–1). Furthermore, the introduced alumina can prevent the blockage of the ion transport channels from the electrolyte absorption‐induced swelling of poly (methyl methacrylate), which in turn can improve the cycle performance of the thus‐assembled cells. it means that the cell assembled form the synthesized composite separator shows high charge–discharge cyclability, i. e. the cell assembled from the synthesized composite separator maintains 93.9% of initial discharge capacity after 200 charge‐discharge cycles under the rate of 1 C.
High‐Efficient Charge Generation in Single‐Donor‐Component‐Based p‐i‐n Structure Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Yajie , Deng Dan , Wu Qiong , Mi Yang , Yang Chen , Zhang Xuning , Yang Yang , Zou Wenjun , Zhang Jianqi , Zhu Lingyun , Zhou Huiqiong , Liu Xinfeng , Wei Zhixiang
Published: January 2020

Organic solar cells (OSCs) require a bulk heterojunction of a donor and an acceptor for efficient charge generation, whereas other types of solar cells normally use the p‐i‐n device structure. Herein, a comparative investigation of the p‐i‐n‐structured OSCs is conducted based on single‐donor‐component BTID‐0F and the bulkheterojuction OSCs with different donor:acceptor blend ratios using BTID‐0F as the donor and PC71BM as the acceptor. The highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 1.61% is obtained for single‐donor‐based OSCs. The impact of PC71BM weight ratio in BTID‐0F:PC71BM‐based OSCs upon blend morphology, material energetics, photogenerated charge dynamic process, and photovoltaic device performance is investigated, and the highest PCE reaches 8.47%. Results indicate that even when the acceptor sites are highly diluted and the acceptor phase is discontinuous, electron transport can occur with a reasonable electron mobility. The PCE of 1.61% is the highest PCE reported for p‐i‐n structure OSCs based on a single‐donor component, which is helpful to understand the mechanism of charge generation in organic materials and thus obtainhigh‐efficient OSCs using the p‐i‐n structure.
Moral understanding and moral illusions
Authors: Wilkenfeld Daniel A. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2020

The central claim of this paper is that people who ignore recherche cases might actually understand ethics better than those who focus on them. In order to establish this claim, I employ a relatively new account of understanding, to the effect that one understands to the extent that one has a representation/process pair that allows one to efficiently compress and decode useful information. I argue that people who ignore odd cases have compressed better, understand better, and so can be just as ethical (if not more so) as those who focus on such cases. The general idea is that our intuitive moral judgments only imprecisely track the moral truth—the function that maps possible decisions onto moral valuations—and when we try to specify the function precisely we end up overfitting what is basically a straightforward function to accommodate irrelevant data points.
The accident of logical constants
Authors: Haze Tristan Grøtvedt ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2020

Work on the nature and scope of formal logic has focused unduly on the distinction between logical and extra-logical vocabulary; which argument forms a logical theory countenances depends not only on its stock of logical terms, but also on its range of grammatical categories and modes of composition. Furthermore, there is a sense in which logical terms are unnecessary. Alexandra Zinke has recently pointed out that propositional logic can be done without logical terms. By defining a logical-term-free language with the full expressive power of first-order logic with identity, I show that this is true of logic more generally. Furthermore, having, in a logical theory, non-trivial valid forms that do not involve logical terms is not merely a technical possibility. As the case of adverbs shows, issues about the range of argument forms logic should countenance can quite naturally arise in such a way that they do not turn on whether we countenance certain terms as logical.
Neural changes following a body-oriented resilience therapy with elements of kickboxing for individuals with a psychotic disorder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: van der Stouwe Elisabeth C. D. , Pijnenborg Gerdina H. M. , Opmeer Esther M. , de Vries Bertine , Marsman Jan-Bernard C. , Aleman André , van Busschbach Jooske T.
Published: January 2020

Individuals with a psychotic disorder are at an increased risk of becoming the victim of a crime. A body-oriented resilience therapy (BEATVIC) aimed at preventing victimization by addressing putatively underlying factors was developed. One of these factors is social cognition, particularly facial affect processing. The current study investigated neural effects of BEATVIC on facial affect processing using two face processing tasks. Participants were randomized to either BEATVIC or a ‘Befriending’ control group. Twenty-seven patients completed an Emotional Faces task and the Wall of Faces task during fMRI, pre- and post-intervention. General linear model analyses yielded no differences between groups over time. Independent component analyses revealed increased activation of the salience network to angry and fearful faces in BEATVIC compared to Befriending. Increased activation of the salience network may suggest an increased alertness for potentially dangerous faces.
Evaluation of microbiological quality of atmospheric air in a selected sewage treatment plant in Lesser Poland
Authors: Paśmionka Iwona
Published: January 2020

The adverse impact of sewage treatment plants on the environment, resulting from the emission of harmful biological agents to the atmosphere, depends mainly on the size of the facility, the quantity and composition of treated sewage as well as the technologies and equipment used. The aim of the conducted research was to determine the microbiological quality of atmospheric air at Municipal-Industrial Sewage Treatment Plant in Oświęcim, which is one of the largest treatment plants in Lesser Poland. Bioaerosol measurements were made at four points (raw sewage inlet, aeration chamber, purified sewage outlet and 150 m from the treatment plant, at the background point) in the period from January to December 2018. Bioaerosol samples were collected using Microbiological Air Sampler MAS-100 by Merck. The tested atmospheric air was characterized by a qualitatively and quantitatively diverse microflora. The largest source of emission of microorganisms to the atmosphere was the mechanical part of the sewage treatment plant (raw sewage inlet) and the biological reactor. The highest number of mesophilic bacteria was observed near the biological reactor (in the summer), the least at the control point. During the research, the least β-hemolytic bacteria was isolated at the purified sewage outlet—on average 3 CFU m−3, the highest at the biological reactor 16 CFU m−3. Most of α-hemolytic bacteria was observed near the raw sewage inlet and was not found at the control point. Actinomycetes also occurred in a small amount (0–40 CFU m−3). A high concentration of mildew fungi occurred in summer when the air temperature was highest, the smallest quantities of these microorganisms were found in January and February.
A game theoretic analysis of resource mining in blockchain
Authors: Singh Rajani , Dwivedi Ashutosh Dhar , Srivastava Gautam , Wiszniewska-Matyszkiel Agnieszka , Cheng Xiaochun
Published: January 2020

Blockchain and cryptocurrency are a hot topic in today’s digital world. In this paper, we create a game theoretic model in continuous time. We consider a dynamic game model of the bitcoin market, where miners or players use mining systems to mine bitcoin by investing electricity into the mining system. Although this work is motivated by BTC, the work presented can be applicable to other mining systems similar to BTC. We propose three concepts of dynamic game theoretic solutions to the model:Social optimum,Nash equilibriumandmyopic Nash equilibrium. Using the model that a player represents a single “miner” or a “mining pool”, we develop novel and interesting results for the cryptocurrency world.