bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gendered Islamophobia: The Overlapping Parallels of Hindu and Buddhist Nationalism in South Asia
Authors: Malji Andrea
Published: September 2020

This article explores the overlapping grievances of Hindu and Buddhist nationalists in India and Sri Lanka and associated violence. Although the organization and tactics of the nationalist groups vary, they express similar concerns about perceived Muslim expansionism and existential threats to Hindu and Buddhist identity. The findings in this article draw upon field research in India and Sri Lanka, including interviews with Hindu and Buddhist nationalist leaders, community activists, and Muslim minorities. The interviews are supplemented with findings from a database of violent anti-Muslim acts in both countries from 2013-2019. This time period coincides with the electoral rise of Hindu and Buddhist nationalist parties and anti-Muslim violence in both countries.
Hardball Republic: Constitutional Hardball During Periods of Ordinary Politics
Authors: Woodward-Burns Robinson
Published: September 2020

Since the 1980s, congressional parties have traded increasingly narrow majorities, forgoing interparty compromise for unabashedly partisan lawmaking tactics. This includes “constitutional hardball,” in which lawmakers entrench their party position on high stakes votes by bending normal lawmaking procedure. Nevertheless, literature on the topic is new and descriptive (Balkin 2017, Fishkin and Pozen 2018, Pozen 2018), suggesting that hardball occurs briefly, during rare transformative moments (Tushnet 2003, Ackerman 1993, 1998, 2014). I argue that constitutional hardball is a durable, regular feature of congressional struggles over judicial nominations and voting rights. Specifically, I argue that given Article V’s high barriers to amendment, members of Congress unable to pass formal amendments have instead used hardball measures to achieve quasi-constitutional reform on judicial powers and voting rights. To test this claim, I offer case studies on the Enabling Act of 1889, House reapportionment after the 1920 Census, and contemporary Article V amendment proposals.
The Effect of Health Facilities and Waiting Time on Outpatient Satisfaction at Bondo Kodi Public Health Center
Authors: Dadut Ronaldus Asto
Published: September 2020

This study aims to analyze the influence of service quality, health facilities, and waiting times partially and simultaneously on outpatient satisfaction partially in the Bondo Kodi Public Health Center. This research was based on the results of preliminary observations that show the level of satisfaction of patien was still relatively low on health services provided. This research was explanatory research with quantitative approaches. This study was conducted in the Bondo Kodi Public Health Center. The population used in this study were all patients who had utilized health services. The sampling technique was done by purposive sampling, namely by using criteria. Data collection used questionnaires. Then the data analysis used was multiple linear regression analysis. The results of this study showed that service quality (0.000), health facilities (0.030), and waiting time (0.031) influence patient satisfaction at the Bondo Kodi Public Health Center. The results explained that improvements in the quality of services and health facilities will improve patient satisfaction, but at an increasingly shorter waiting time it will also increase patient satisfaction in Bondo Kodi Health Center.

Keywords: service quality; health facilities; waiting time; satisfaction
Double-Double Row Planting Mode at Deficit Irrigation Regime Increases Winter Wheat Yield and Water Use Efficiency in North China Plain
Authors: Zhou Xun Bo , Wang Guo Yun , Yang Li , Wu Hai Yan
Published: September 2020

Low water availability coupled with poor planting method has posed a great challenge to winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) productivity. To improve productivity and water use efficiency (WUE) under deficit irrigation, an effective water-saving technology that is characterized by three planting modes has been developed (uniform with 30-cm row spacing (U), double-double row spacing of 5 cm (DD), and furrow-ridge row spacing of alternated 20 cm and 40 cm (F)) combined with three irrigation regimes (50 mm water each at growth stage 34 (GS34) and GS48 (W1), and 100 mm water at GS48 (W2), or 100 mm each water at GS34 and GS48 (W3)). Results showed that DD increased yield by 9.7% and WUE by 12.6% due to higher soil water status and less soil water depletion and evapotranspiration compared with U. Although the soil water status, soil water depletion, evapotranspiration, and yield increased with increasing irrigation amount, more soil water depletion and evapotranspiration resulted in low WUE. The deficit irrigation was beneficial for improving WUE as W1 had significantly increased yield by 5.4% and WUE by 7.1% compared with W2. Yield and evapotranspiration showed a quadratic dynamic equation indicating that yield increased with increasing evapotranspiration. Considering WUE and relatively higher yield under deficit water, W1 combined with DD is suggested to be a good management strategy to be applied in winter wheat of water-scarce regions.
Synthesis of Electrospun TiO2 Nanofibers and Characterization of Their Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Potential against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Ansari Mohammad Azam , Albetran Hani Manssor , Alheshibri Muidh Hamed , Timoumi Abdelmajid , Algarou Norah Abdullah , Akhtar Sultan , Slimani Yassine , Almessiere Munirah Abdullah , Alahmari Fatimah Saad , Baykal Abdulhadi , Low It-Meng
Published: September 2020

Recently, titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanomaterials have gained increased attention because of their cost-effective, safe, stable, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, photocatalytic, bactericidal, biomedical, industrial and waste-water treatment applications. The aim of the present work is the synthesis of electrospun TiO2 nanofibers (NFs) in the presence of different amounts of air–argon mixtures using sol-gel and electrospinning approaches. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized NFs were examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM and TEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). The antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of synthesized NFs against Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) was investigated by determining their minimum bacteriostatic and bactericidal values. The topological and morphological alteration caused by TiO2 NFs in bacterial cells was further analyzed by SEM. TiO2 NFs that were calcined in a 25% air-75% argon mixture showed maximum antibacterial and antibiofilm activities. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)/minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value of TiO2 NFs against P. aeruginosa was 3 and 6 mg/mL and that for MRSA was 6 and 12 mg/mL, respectively. The MIC/MBC and SEM results show that TiO2 NFs were more active against Gram-negative P. aeruginosa cells than Gram-positive S. aureus. The inhibition of biofilm formation by TiO2 NFs was investigated quantitatively by tissue culture plate method using crystal violet assay and it was found that TiO2 NFs inhibited biofilm formation by MRSA and P. aeruginosa in a dose-dependent manner. TiO2 NFs calcined in a 25% air-75% argon mixture exhibited maximum biofilm formation inhibition of 75.2% for MRSA and 72.3% for P. aeruginosa at 2 mg/mL, respectively. The antibacterial and antibiofilm results suggest that TiO2 NFs can be used to coat various inanimate objects, in food packaging and in waste-water treatment and purification to prevent bacterial growth and biofilm formation.
Impact of Albumin and Omeprazole on Steady-State Population Pharmacokinetics of Voriconazole and Development of a Voriconazole Dosing Optimization Model in Thai Patients with Hematologic Diseases
Authors: Khan-asa Buddharat , Punyawudho Baralee , Singkham Noppaket , Chaivichacharn Piyawat , Karoopongse Ekapun , Montakantikul Preecha , Chayakulkeeree Methee
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to identify factors that significantly influence the pharmacokinetics of voriconazole in Thai adults with hematologic diseases, and to determine optimal voriconazole dosing regimens. Blood samples were collected at steady state in 65 patients (237 concentrations) who were taking voriconazole to prevent or treat invasive aspergillosis. The data were analyzed using a nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach. Monte Carlo simulation was applied to optimize dosage regimens. Data were fitted with the one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. The apparent oral clearance (CL/F) was 3.43 L/h, the apparent volume of distribution (V/F) was 47.6 L, and the absorption rate constant (Ka) was fixed at 1.1 h−1. Albumin and omeprazole ≥ 40 mg/day were found to significantly influence CL/F. The simulation produced the following recommended maintenance doses of voriconazole: 50, 100, and 200 mg every 12 h for albumin levels of 1.5–3, 3.01–4, and 4.01–4.5 g/dL, respectively, in patients who receive omeprazole ≤ 20 mg/day. Patients who receive omeprazole ≥ 40 mg/day and who have serum albumin level 1.5–3 and 3.01–4.5 g/dL should receive voriconazole 50 and 100 mg, every 12 h, respectively. Albumin level and omeprazole dosage should be carefully considered when determining the appropriate dosage of voriconazole in Thai patients.
Ubiquinone Supplementation with 300 mg on Glycemic Control and Antioxidant Status in Athletes: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Ho Chien-Chang , Chang Po-Sheng , Chen Hung-Wun , Lee Po-Fu , Chang Yun-Chi , Tseng Ching-Yu , Lin Ping-Ting
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate the glycemic profile, oxidative stress, and antioxidant capacity in athletes after 12 weeks of ubiquinone supplementation. It was a double-blinded, randomized, parallel, placebo-controlled study. Thirty-one well-trained college athletes were randomly assigned to ubiquinone (300 mg/d, n = 17) or placebo group (n = 14). The glycemic profile [fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI)], plasma and erythrocyte malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and ubiquinone status were measured. After supplementation, the plasma ubiquinone concentration was significantly increased (p < 0.05) and the level of erythrocyte MDA was significantly lower in the ubiquinone group than in the placebo group (p < 0.01). There was a significant correlation between white blood cell (WBC) ubiquinone and glycemic parameters [HbA1c, r = −0.46, p < 0.05; HOMA-IR, r = −0.67, p < 0.01; QUICKI, r = 0.67, p < 0.01]. In addition, athletes with higher WBC ubiquinone level (≥0.5 nmol/g) showed higher erythrocyte TAC and QUICKI and lower HOMA-IR. In conclusion, we demonstrated that athletes may show a better antioxidant capacity with higher ubiquinone status after 12 weeks of supplementation, which may further improve glycemic control.
The High-Velocity Impact Behaviour of Kevlar Composite Laminates Filled with Cork Powder
Authors: Amaro Ana Martins , Reis Paulo Nobre Balbis , Ivañez Ines , Sánchez-Saez Sonia , Garcia-Castillo Shirley Kalamis , Barbero Enrique
Published: September 2020

The literature reports benefits when the cork powder obtained from industrial by-products is used as the filler of composite laminates. For example, while the fatigue life is insensitive to the presence of cork in the resin, significant improvements are achieved in terms of to low-velocity impact strength. However, in terms of ballistic domain, the literature does not yet report any study about the effect of incorporating powdered cork into resins. Therefore, this study intended to analyse the ballistic behaviour and damage tolerance of Kevlar/epoxy reinforced composites with matrix filled by cork powder. For this purpose, high-velocity impacts were studied on plates of Kevlar bi-directional woven laminates with surfaces of 100 × 100 mm2. It was possible to conclude that the minimum velocity of perforation is 1.6% higher when the cork powder is added to the resin, but considering the dispersion, this small difference can be neglected. In terms of damage areas, they are slightly lower when cork dust is added, especially for velocities below the minimum perforation velocity. Finally, the residual bending strength shows that these composites are less sensitive to impact velocity than the samples with neat resin. In addition to these benefits, cork powder reduces the amount of resin in the composite, making it more environmentally friendly.
Large Gradient Micro-Structure Topography Measurement with Multi-Angle Stitching Digital Holographic Microscope
Authors: Jin Chuan , He Yu , Tang Yan , Xie Zhongye , Zhao Lixin , Hu Song
Published: September 2020

We present an effective method for the topography characterization of large gradient micro-structure based on digital holographic microscope (DHM). Due to the limitation of numerical aperture of DHM system, high frequency information corresponding to large gradient regions of specimen is prohibited from entering the imaging system and the complete collection of specimen features cannot be implemented. To solve this problem, we use a common configuration of off-axis DHM system to capture the holograms from multiple angles of the sample, and the various object waves coming from the sample of different tilt angle is corrected and spliced into a fully topography by multi-angle stitching process. In this way, the measurement of large gradient topography of specimen can be realized. Experimental results of large gradient microlens demonstrate the practicability and precision of the presented method.
Overtaking Collisions of Ion Acoustic N-Shocks in a Collisionless Plasma with Pair-Ion and (α,q) Distribution Function for Electrons
Authors: Hafez Md. Golam , Akter Parvin , Ariffin Abdul Karim Samsul
Published: September 2020

In this work, the effects of plasma parameters on overtaking collisions of ion acoustic multi-shocks are studied in an unmagnetized collisionless plasma with positive and negative ions, and (α,q)-distributed electrons. To investigate such phenomena, the reductive perturbation technique is implemented to derive the Burgers equation. The N-shock wave solution is determined for this equation by directly implementing the exponential function. The result reveals that both the amplitudes and thicknesses of overtaking collisions of N-shock wave compressive and rarefactive electrostatic potential are significantly modified with the influences of viscosity coefficients of positive and negative ions. In addition, the density ratios also play an essential role to the formation of overtaking collisions of N-shocks. It is observed from all theoretical and parametric investigations that the outcomes may be very useful in understanding the dynamical behavior of overtaking collisions of multi-shocks in various environments, especially the D- and F-regions of the Earth’s ionosphere and the future experimental investigations in Q-machine laboratory plasmas.
Effect of Equivalent Load Distribution on the Accuracy of Mapping the Reinforcement Load Deflection Curve in LTP
Authors: Gajewska Beata , Gajewski Marcin
Published: September 2020

The formulations of tasks modelling embankments on soft soil, improved with columns and with reinforced load transfer platform (LTP), differ significantly. One of these differences is the distribution of equivalent load modelling part of the load carried by the LTP reinforcement and soft soil. This article analyses the influence of the nature of the load-modelling linear function, i.e., inverse triangular, uniformly distributed and triangular, as well as intermediate distributions. In total, 41 distributions of equivalent load were considered, and the results of the obtained deflection functions were compared with the measurement results of reinforcement deflection for 5 cases of experimental research available in the literature. A measure of the accuracy of mapping the reinforcement deflection curve was proposed as a relative error in relation to the deflection curve resulting from experimental measurements. Based on the analysis of the mapping error, it was determined that among the three commonly used distributions, the inverse triangular distribution shows the best fit in most of the analysed cases. However, not in every single case this is the distribution leading to a solution that best describes the behaviour of the geosynthetic reinforcement.
Visualizations of Uncertainties in Precision Agriculture: Lessons Learned from Farm Machinery
Authors: Řezník Tomáš , Kubíček Petr , Herman Lukáš , Pavelka Tomáš , Leitgeb Šimon , Klocová Martina , Leitner Filip
Published: September 2020

Detailed measurements of yield values are becoming a common practice in precision agriculture. Field harvesters generate point Big Data as they provide yield measurements together with dozens of complex attributes in a frequency of up to one second. Such a flood of data brings uncertainties caused by several factors: accuracy of the positioning system used, trajectory overlaps, raising the cutting bar due to obstacles or unevenness, and so on. This paper deals with 2D and 3D cartographic visualizations of terrain, measured yield, and its uncertainties. Four graphic variables were identified as credible for visualizations of uncertainties in point Big Data. Data from two plots at a fully operational farm were used for this purpose. ISO 19157 was examined for its applicability and a proof-of-concept for selected uncertainty expression was defined. Special attention was paid to spatial pattern interpretations.
Model Test and Numerical Simulation of Single Pile Response under Combined Loading in Slope
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Wang Xiaoju , Wang Hao , Qin Hongyu
Published: September 2020

Vertical loads are commonly transferred by piles primarily in the upper structures. However, lateral loads are also significant compared with vertical loads in pile foundation design. Compared with a pile on level ground, there are many particular characteristics in a pile that is on sloping ground. These characteristics depend on the combined loading and the magnitude of the soil lateral displacement. In order to investigate the pile’s bearing characteristics, a model test was conducted and ABAQUS software was adopted to conduct 3D numerical simulation of a single pile with different slope angles under combined loads. The experimental results indicated that (1) the soil pressure along the slope direction was smaller than the other side, resulting in an asymmetry of the slope soil around the pile, and in turn introducing a horizontal thrust to the pile; (2) with the increase of slope angle, the horizontal thrust increased while the single pile’s bearing capacity decreased; (3) the vertical load caused more pile horizontal displacement with the growth of slope angle; and (4) the pile’s moment and the displacement also increased with the growth of the slope angle. The findings in this study can provide a useful reference in the design of piles or anti-slide piles in sloping ground.
Comparison of Neural Activation Area in Primary Somatosensory Cortex and Brodmann Area 3 According to Finger and Phalange High-Frequency Vibration Stimulation
Authors: Kim Hyung-Sik , Jo Ji-Hun , Lee Je-Hyeop , Jung Jin-Ju , Kim Ki-Han , An Jin-Su , Kim Ye-Jin , Choi Mi-Hyun , Chung Soon-Cheol
Published: September 2020

In this study, we measured neuronal activation in the primary somatosensory area (S1) and Brodmann area 3 (BA3) using 3T functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while presenting a 250-Hz high-frequency vibrational stimulus to each of three phalanges (distal, intermediate, and proximal) of four fingers of the right hand (index, middle, ring, and little). We compared the nerve activation area between each finger and each phalange. Ten healthy male college students (26.6 ± 2.5 years old) participated in this study. One session consisted of three blocks: a rest (30 s), stimulation (30 s), and response phase (9 s). In the rest phase, the vibrational stimulus was not presented. In the stimulation phase, the vibrational stimulation was presented at any one of the three phalanges of the selected finger. In the response phase, subjects were instructed to press a button corresponding to the phalange that they thought had received the vibration. The subtraction method was used to extract the activation area. The activation area in the S1 was the largest when the little finger was stimulated (for the finger comparison), and largest when the second phalange was stimulated (for the phalange comparison). The BA3 showed similar trends, and there was no statistically significant difference.
Noncoding RNAs and Midbrain DA Neurons: Novel Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets in Health and Disease
Authors: Pascale Emilia , Divisato Giuseppina , Palladino Renata , Auriemma Margherita , Ngalya Edward Faustine , Caiazzo Massimiliano
Published: September 2020

Midbrain dopamine neurons have crucial functions in motor and emotional control and their degeneration leads to several neurological dysfunctions such as Parkinson’s disease, addiction, depression, schizophrenia, and others. Despite advances in the understanding of specific altered proteins and coding genes, little is known about cumulative changes in the transcriptional landscape of noncoding genes in midbrain dopamine neurons. Noncoding RNAs—specifically microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs—are emerging as crucial post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression in the brain. The identification of noncoding RNA networks underlying all stages of dopamine neuron development and plasticity is an essential step to deeply understand their physiological role and also their involvement in the etiology of dopaminergic diseases. Here, we provide an update about noncoding RNAs involved in dopaminergic development and metabolism, and the related evidence of these biomolecules for applications in potential treatments for dopaminergic neurodegeneration.
The Skeleton in the Closet: Faults and Strengths of Public Versus Private Genetic Biobanks
Authors: Tozzo Pamela , Caenazzo Luciana
Published: September 2020

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing has been a major ethical controversy related to clinical utility, the availability of pre- and post-genetic counseling, privacy concerns, and the risk of discrimination and stigmatization. The development of direct-to-consumer genetic testing cannot leave aside some considerations on how the samples are managed once the analyses have been completed and the customer has received a response. The possibility that these samples are maintained by the structure for future research uses, explains the definition, which has been proposed in the literature, of these structures such as private genetic biobanks. The most relevant aspects that may impact ethical aspects, allowing a comparison between the public and private dimensions of genetic biobanks, are mainly transparency and participant/donor trust. The article aims to analyze the main line of ethical debate related to the mentioned practices and to explore whether market-based and consumer rights regarding DTC genetic testing can be counterbalanced by healthcare system developments based on policies that encourage the donation of samples in the context of public biobanks. A platform for dialogue, both technical–scientific and ethical, is indispensable between the public sector, the private sector and citizens to truly maximize both transparency and public trust in both contexts.
A Self-Powered Biosensor for the Detection of Glutathione
Authors: Roy Brandon G. , Rutherford Julia L. , Weaver Anna E. , Beaver Kevin , Rasmussen Michelle
Published: September 2020

Glutathione is an important biological molecule which can be an indicator of numerous diseases. A method for self-powered detection of glutathione levels in solution has been developed using an enzymatic biofuel cell. The device consists of a glucose oxidase anode and a bilirubin oxidase cathode. For the detection of glutathione, the inhibition of bilirubin oxidase leads to a measurable decrease in current and power output. The reported method has a detection limit of 0.043 mM and a linear range up to 1.7 mM. Being able to detect a range of concentrations can be useful in evaluating a patient’s health. This method has the potential to be implemented as a quick, low-cost alternative to previously reported methods.
Jealousy Incarnate: Quiet Ego, Competitive Desire, and the Fictional Intelligence of Long-Term Mating in a Romantic K-Drama
Authors: Lucchi Basili Lorenza , Sacco Pier Luigi
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we analyze a K-drama aired by the Korean TV network SBS in 2016, Jealousy Incarnate, as a case study of the application of the Tie-Up Theory to a romantic narrative as a form of simulation of human mating processes with social cognition valence. We find that this case provides us with an example of a mating process where the choice of the male partner by the female lead character does not privilege the one that should be preferable on the basis of the standard prediction of the experimental research on human mating. This discrepancy is a signal of a basic limitation of experimental research, that highlights the subjects’ preferences for abstract potential partners but is not able to fully account for the mechanisms that lead to the choice of a specific partner in a specific mating interaction. We argue that the narrative simulation viewpoint provides insights that are complementary to those of experimental research, and that a more comprehensive theoretical approach, such as the one offered by the Tie-Up Theory, may be helpful to account for both perspectives.
Photodynamic Diagnosis and Therapy for Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: Emerging Perspectives
Authors: Xu Si , Bulin Anne-Laure , Hurbin Amandine , Elleaume Hélène , Coll Jean-Luc , Broekgaarden Mans
Published: September 2020

Peritoneal carcinomatosis occurs frequently in patients with advanced stage gastrointestinal and gynecological cancers. The wide-spread peritoneal micrometastases indicate a poor outlook, as the tumors are difficult to diagnose and challenging to completely eradicate with cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapeutics. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) and therapy (PDT), modalities that use photosensitizers for fluorescence detection or photochemical treatment of cancer, are promising theranostic approaches for peritoneal carcinomatosis. This review discusses the leading clinical trials, identifies the major challenges, and presents potential solutions to advance the use of PDD and PDT for the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis. While PDD for fluorescence-guided surgery is practically feasible and has achieved clinical success, large randomized trials are required to better evaluate the survival benefits. Although PDT is feasible and combines well with clinically used chemotherapeutics, poor tumor specificity has been associated with severe morbidity. The major challenges for both modalities are to increase the tumor specificity of the photosensitizers, to efficiently treat peritoneal microtumors regardless of their phenotypes, and to improve the ability of the excitation light to reach the cancer tissues. Substantial progress has been achieved in (1) the development of targeted photosensitizers and nanocarriers to improve tumor selectivity, (2) the design of biomodulation strategies to reduce treatment heterogeneity, and (3) the development of novel light application strategies. The use of X-ray-activated PDT during whole abdomen radiotherapy may also be considered to overcome the limited tissue penetration of light. Integrated approaches that take advantage of PDD, cytoreductive surgery, chemotherapies, PDT, and potentially radiotherapy, are likely to achieve the most effective improvement in the management of peritoneal carcinomatosis.
Combined Methylome and Transcriptome Analyses Reveals Potential Therapeutic Targets for EGFR Wild Type Lung Cancers with Low PD-L1 Expression
Authors: Hu Weilei , Wang Guosheng , Yarmus Lonny B. , Wan Yuan
Published: September 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have demonstrated remarkable treatment efficacy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, low expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) wild-type NSCLCs are refractory, and only few therapeutic options exist. Currently, combination therapy with ICIs is frequently used in order to enhance the treatment response rates. Yet, this regimen is still associated with poor treatment outcome. Therefore, identification of potential therapeutic targets for this subgroup of NSCLC is strongly desired. Here, we report the distinct methylation signatures of this special subgroup. Moreover, several druggable targets and relevant drugs for targeted therapy were incidentally identified. We found hypermethylated differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in three regions (TSS200, TSS1500, and gene body) are significantly higher than hypomethylated ones. Downregulated methylated genes were found to be involved in negative regulation of immune response and T cell-mediated immunity. Moreover, expression of four methylated genes (PLCXD3 (Phosphatidylinositol-Specific Phospholipase C, X Domain Containing 3), BAIAP2L2 (BAR/IMD Domain Containing Adaptor Protein 2 Like 2), NPR3 (Natriuretic Peptide Receptor 3), SNX10 (Sorting Nexin 10)) can influence patients’ prognosis. Subsequently, based on DrugBank data, NetworkAnalyst 3.0 was used for protein–drug interaction analysis of up-regulated differentially methylated genes. Protein products of nine genes were identified as potential druggable targets, of which the tumorigenic potential of XDH (Xanthine Dehydrogenase), ATIC (5-Aminoimidazole-4-Carboxamide Ribonucleotide Formyltransferase/IMP Cyclohydrolase), CA9 (Carbonic Anhydrase 9), SLC7A11 (Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 11), and GAPDH (Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase) have been demonstrated in previous studies. Next, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were performed to verify the structural basis of the therapeutic targets. It is noteworthy that the identified pemetrexed targeting ATIC has been recently approved for first-line use in combination with anti-PD1 inhibitors against lung cancer, irrespective of PD-L1 expression. In future work, a pivotal clinical study will be initiated to further validate our findings.
Pre- and Post-Zygotic TP53 De Novo Mutations in SHH-Medulloblastoma
Authors: Azzollini Jacopo , Schiavello Elisabetta , Buttarelli Francesca Romana , Clerici Carlo Alfredo , Tizzoni Laura , Vecchi Giovanna De , Capra Fabio , Pisati Federica , Biassoni Veronica , Runza Letterio , Carrabba Giorgio , Giangaspero Felice , Massimino Maura , Pensotti Valeria , Manoukian Siranoush
Published: September 2020

Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in the TP53 gene, predisposing to a wide spectrum of early-onset cancers, including brain tumors. In medulloblastoma patients, the role of TP53 has been extensively investigated, though the prevalence of de novo mutations has not been addressed. We characterized TP53 mutations in a monocentric cohort of consecutive Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)-activated medulloblastoma patients. Germline testing was offered based on tumor p53 immunostaining positivity. Among 24 patients, three (12.5%) showed tumor p53 overexpression, of whom two consented to undergo germline testing and resulted as carriers of TP53 mutations. In the first case, family history was uneventful and the mutation was not found in either of the parents. The second patient, with a family history suggestive of LFS, unexpectedly resulted as a carrier of the mosaic mutation c.742=/C>T p.(Arg248=/Trp). The allele frequency was 26% in normal tissues and 42–77% in tumor specimens. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in the tumor was also confirmed. Notably, the mosaic case has been in complete remission for more than one year, while the first patient, as most TP53-mutated medulloblastoma cases from other cohorts, showed a severe and rapidly progressive disease. Our study reported the first TP53 mosaic mutation in medulloblastoma patients and confirmed the importance of germline testing in p53 overexpressed SHH-medulloblastoma, regardless of family history.
An Evolutionary Approach for the Hierarchical Scheduling of Safety- and Security-Critical Multicore Architectures
Authors: Woolley Brandon , Mengel Susan , Ertas Atila
Published: September 2020

The aerospace and defense industry is facing an end-of-life production issue with legacy embedded uniprocessor systems. Most, if not all, embedded processor manufacturers have already moved towards system-on-a-chip multicore architectures. Current scheduling arrangements do not consider schedules related to safety and security. The methods are also inefficient because they arbitrarily assign larger-than-necessary windows of execution. This research creates a hierarchical scheduling framework as a model for real-time multicore systems to integrate the scheduling for safe and secure systems. This provides a more efficient approach which automates the migration of embedded systems’ real-time software tasks to multicore architectures. A novel genetic algorithm with a unique objective function and encoding scheme was created and compared to classical bin-packing algorithms. The simulation results show the genetic algorithm had 1.8–2.5 times less error (a 56–71% difference), outperforming its counterparts in uniformity in utilization. This research provides an efficient, automated method for commercial, private and defense industries to use a genetic algorithm to create a feasible two-level hierarchical schedule for real-time embedded multicore systems that address safety and security constraints.
A Novel Perspective of the Kalman Filter from the Rényi Entropy
Authors: Luo Yarong , Guo Chi , You Shengyong , Liu Jingnan
Published: September 2020

Rényi entropy as a generalization of the Shannon entropy allows for different averaging of probabilities of a control parameter α. This paper gives a new perspective of the Kalman filter from the Rényi entropy. Firstly, the Rényi entropy is employed to measure the uncertainty of the multivariate Gaussian probability density function. Then, we calculate the temporal derivative of the Rényi entropy of the Kalman filter’s mean square error matrix, which will be minimized to obtain the Kalman filter’s gain. Moreover, the continuous Kalman filter approaches a steady state when the temporal derivative of the Rényi entropy is equal to zero, which means that the Rényi entropy will keep stable. As the temporal derivative of the Rényi entropy is independent of parameter α and is the same as the temporal derivative of the Shannon entropy, the result is the same as for Shannon entropy. Finally, an example of an experiment of falling body tracking by radar using an unscented Kalman filter (UKF) in noisy conditions and a loosely coupled navigation experiment are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the conclusion.
Power-Optimized Sinusoidal Piston Motion and Its Performance Gain for an Alpha-Type Stirling Engine with Limited Regeneration
Authors: Scheunert Mathias , Masser Robin , Khodja Abdellah , Paul Raphael , Schwalbe Karsten , Fischer Andreas , Hoffmann Karl Heinz
Published: September 2020

The recuperation of otherwise lost waste heat provides a formidable way to decrease the primary energy consumption of many technical systems. A possible route to achieve that goal is through the use of Stirling engines, which have shown to be reliable and efficient devices. One can increase their performance by optimizing the piston motion. Here, it is investigated to which extent the cycle averaged power output can be increased by using a special class of adjustable sinusoidal motions (the AS class). In particular the influence of the regeneration effectiveness on the piston motion is examined. It turns out that with the optimized piston motion one can achieve performance gains for the power output of up to 50% depending on the loss mechanisms involved. A remarkable result is that the power output does not depend strongly on the limitations of the regenerator, in fact—depending on the loss terms—the influence of the regenerator practically vanishes.
Hydrochars as Emerging Biofuels: Recent Advances and Application of Artificial Neural Networks for the Prediction of Heating Values
Authors: Vardiambasis Ioannis O. , Kapetanakis Theodoros N. , Nikolopoulos Christos D. , Trang Trinh Kieu , Tsubota Toshiki , Keyikoglu Ramazan , Khataee Alireza , Kalderis Dimitrios
Published: September 2020

In this study, the growing scientific field of alternative biofuels was examined, with respect to hydrochars produced from renewable biomasses. Hydrochars are the solid products of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and their properties depend on the initial biomass and the temperature and duration of treatment. The basic (Scopus) and advanced (Citespace) analysis of literature showed that this is a dynamic research area, with several sub-fields of intense activity. The focus of researchers on sewage sludge and food waste as hydrochar precursors was highlighted and reviewed. It was established that hydrochars have improved behavior as fuels compared to these feedstocks. Food waste can be particularly useful in co-hydrothermal carbonization with ash-rich materials. In the case of sewage sludge, simultaneous P recovery from the HTC wastewater may add more value to the process. For both feedstocks, results from large-scale HTC are practically non-existent. Following the review, related data from the years 2014–2020 were retrieved and fitted into four different artificial neural networks (ANNs). Based on the elemental content, HTC temperature and time (as inputs), the higher heating values (HHVs) and yields (as outputs) could be successfully predicted, regardless of original biomass used for hydrochar production. ANN3 (based on C, O, H content, and HTC temperature) showed the optimum HHV predicting performance (R2 0.917, root mean square error 1.124), however, hydrochars’ HHVs could also be satisfactorily predicted by the C content alone (ANN1, R2 0.897, root mean square error 1.289).
Enhancement in Combustion, Performance, and Emission Characteristics of a Diesel Engine Fueled with Ce-ZnO Nanoparticle Additive Added to Soybean Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Hussain Fayaz , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Afzal Asif , Mujtaba M.A. , Fattah I.M. Rizwanul , Naik Bharat , Mulla Mohammed Huzaifa , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Khan T. M. Yunus , Raju Vallapudi Dhana , Gavhane Rakhamaji S. , Rahman S.M. Ashrafur
Published: September 2020

This study considered the impacts of diesel–soybean biodiesel blends mixed with 3% cerium coated zinc oxide (Ce-ZnO) nanoparticles on the performance, emission, and combustion characteristics of a single cylinder diesel engine. The fuel blends were prepared using 25% soybean biodiesel in diesel (SBME25). Ce-ZnO nanoparticle additives were blended with SBME25 at 25, 50, and 75 ppm using the ultrasonication process with a surfactant (Span 80) at 2 vol.% to enhance the stability of the blend. A variable compression ratio engine operated at a 19.5:1 compression ratio (CR) using these blends resulted in an improvement in overall engine characteristics. With 50 ppm Ce-ZnO nanoparticle additive in SBME25 (SBME25Ce-ZnO50), the brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and heat release rate (HRR) increased by 20.66% and 18.1%, respectively; brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) by 21.81%; and the CO, smoke, and hydrocarbon (HC) decreased by 30%, 18.7%, and 21.5%, respectively, compared to SBME25 fuel operation. However, the oxides of nitrogen slightly rose for all the nanoparticle added blends. As such, 50 ppm of Ce-ZnO nanoparticle in the blend is a potent choice for the enhancement of engine performance, combustion, and emission characteristics.
SiC-MOSFET and Si-IGBT-Based dc-dc Interleaved Converters for EV Chargers: Approach for Efficiency Comparison with Minimum Switching Losses Based on Complete Parasitic Modeling
Authors: Loncarski Jelena , Monopoli Vito Giuseppe , Cascella Giuseppe Leonardo , Cupertino Francesco
Published: September 2020

Widespread dissemination of electric mobility is highly dependent on the power converters, storage systems and renewable energy sources. The efficiency and reliability, combined with the emerging and innovative technologies, are crucial when speaking of power converters. In this paper the interleaved dc–dc topology has been considered for EV charging, due to its improved reliability. The efficiency comparison of the SiC-MOSFET and Si-IGBT-based converters has been done on wide range of switching frequency and output inductances. The interleaved converters were considered with the optimal switching parameters resulting from the analysis done on a detailed parasitic circuit model, ensuring minimum losses and maintaining the safe operating area. The analysis included the comparison of different inductors, and for the selected ones the complete system efficiency and cost were conducted. The results indicate the benefits when SiC-MOSFETs are applied to the interleaved dc–dc topology for wide ranges of output inductances and switching frequencies, and most importantly, they offer lower total volume but also total cost. The realistic and dynamic models of power devices obtained from the manufacturer’s experimental tests have been considered in both LTspice and PLECS simulation tools.
Smart Control Strategies for Primary Frequency Regulation through Electric Vehicles: A Battery Degradation Perspective
Authors: Scarabaggio Paolo , Carli Raffaele , Cavone Graziana , Dotoli Mariagrazia
Published: September 2020

Nowadays, due to the decreasing use of traditional generators in favor of renewable energy sources, power grids are facing a reduction of system inertia and primary frequency regulation capability. Such an issue is exacerbated by the continuously increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs), which results in enforcing novel approaches in the grid operations management. However, from being an issue, the increase of EVs may turn to be a solution to several power system challenges. In this context, a crucial role is played by the so-called vehicle-to-grid (V2G) mode of operation, which has the potential to provide ancillary services to the power grid, such as peak clipping, load shifting, and frequency regulation. More in detail, EVs have recently started to be effectively used for one of the most traditional frequency regulation approaches: the so-called frequency droop control (FDC). This is a primary frequency regulation, currently obtained by adjusting the active power of generators in the main grid. Because to the decommissioning of traditional power plants, EVs are thus recognized as particularly valuable solutions since they can respond to frequency deviation signals by charging or discharging their batteries. Against this background, we address frequency regulation of a power grid model including loads, traditional generators, and several EVs. The latter independently participate in the grid optimization process providing the grid with ancillary services, namely the FDC. We propose two novel control strategies for the optimal control of the batteries of EVs during the frequency regulation service. On the one hand, the control strategies ensure re-balancing the power and stabilizing the frequency of the main grid. On the other hand, the approaches are able to satisfy different types of needs of EVs during the charging process. Differently from the related literature, where the EVs perspective is generally oriented to achieve the optimal charge level, the proposed approaches aim at minimizing the degradation of battery devices. Finally, the proposed strategies are compared with other state-of-the-art V2G control approaches. The results of numerical experiments using a realistic power grid model show the effectiveness of the proposed strategies under the actual operating conditions.
Using Social Network Sites to Boost Savoring: Positive Effects on Positive Emotions
Authors: Yu Sen-Chi , Sheldon Kennon M. , Lan Wen-Ping , Chen Jia-Huei
Published: September 2020

Research has demonstrated that positive interventions (PIs) can be effective in enhancing well-being. Our study used Facebook to conduct a PI based on savoring. Sixty-one university students in Taiwan were randomly assigned to undergo a three-week savoring PI, and 61 participants were assigned to a no-treatment control group. The results showed significantly enhanced positive affect in the treatment group compared to the control group, in both a post-test and a final follow-up, but no significant differences between the two groups in negative affect. The treatment group also displayed significantly lower depression in the post-test, which was not maintained at the follow-up. These results indicate that, for university students, a savoring intervention via Facebook can be an effective way of enhancing positive emotions.
Listening to Hospital Personnel’s Narratives during the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Daphna-Tekoah Shir , Megadasi Brikman Talia , Scheier Eric , Balla Uri
Published: September 2020

Healthcare workers (HCWs) facing the COVID-19 pandemic are required to deal with unexpectedly traumatic situations, concern about contamination, and mounting patient deaths. As a means to address the changing needs of our hospital’s HCWs, we conducted a narrative analysis study in the early stages of the covid-19 outbreak. A focus group of medical experts, conducted as the initial step, recommended that a bottom-up research tool be used for exploring HCWs’ traumatic experiences and needs. We therefore conducted 450 semi-structured in-depth interviews with hospital personnel. The interviews were based on Maslow’s Pyramid of Needs model, and the narratives were analyzed by applying the Listening Guide methodology. The interviewees expressed a need for physical and psychological security in the battle against Covid-19, in addition to the need for attachment and meaning. Importantly, we also found that the interview itself may serve as a therapeutic tool. In light of our findings, we recommended changes in hospital practices, which were subsequently implemented. Further research on HCWs’ traumatic experiences and needs will provide evidence-based knowledge and may enable novel approaches in the battle against Covid-19. To conclude, the knowledge generated by listening to HCWs’ narratives may provide suitable support programs for professionals.
Personal and Environmental Contributors to Sedentary Behavior of Older Adults in Independent and Assisted Living Facilities
Authors: Kotlarczyk Mary P. , Hergenroeder Andrea L. , Gibbs Bethany Barone , Cameron Flor de Abril , Hamm Megan E. , Brach Jennifer S.
Published: September 2020

Sedentary behavior is associated with negative health outcomes and unhealthy aging. Older adults are the most sedentary age group, and decreasing sitting time represents an intervention target for improving health. Determinants of sedentary behavior have been examined in older adults living in their own homes, yet less is known about sedentary behavior of older adults in residential care facilities. The purpose of this study was to explore factors contributing to sedentary behavior among residents of independent and assisted living facilities. We conducted eight focus groups with residents (n = 44) and semi-structured interviews with staff (n = 6) across four living facilities. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed using an iterative, inductive approach. Three salient themes were identified. Residents and staff both viewed sedentary behavior negatively unless it was in the context of social engagement. Additionally, fear of falling was discussed as a significant contributor to sedentary behavior. Finally, residents felt the community living environment contributed to their sedentary behavior while staff did not. Our findings provide valuable insight for designing targeted interventions for older adults in residential facilities and suggest thinking beyond the individual and considering environmental influences on sedentary behavior in the residential care setting.