bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Preliminary Study on Machine Learning-Based Evaluation of Static and Dynamic FET-PET for the Detection of Pseudoprogression in Patients with IDH-Wildtype Glioblastoma
Authors: Kebir Sied , Schmidt Teresa , Weber Matthias , Lazaridis Lazaros , Galldiks Norbert , Langen Karl-Josef , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Hattingen Elke , Herrlinger Ulrich , Lohmann Philipp , Glas Martin
Published: October 2020

Pseudoprogression (PSP) detection in glioblastoma remains challenging and has important clinical implications. We investigated the potential of machine learning (ML) in improving the performance of PET using O-(2-[18F]-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (FET) for differentiation of tumor progression from PSP in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma. We retrospectively evaluated the PET data of patients with newly diagnosed IDH-wildtype glioblastoma following chemoradiation. Contrast-enhanced MRI suspected PSP/TP and all patients underwent subsequently an additional dynamic FET-PET scan. The modified Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria served to diagnose PSP. We trained a Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA)-based classifier using FET-PET derived features on a hold-out validation set. The results of the ML model were compared with a conventional FET-PET analysis using the receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) curve. Of the 44 patients included in this preliminary study, 14 patients were diagnosed with PSP. The mean (TBRmean) and maximum tumor-to-brain ratios (TBRmax) were significantly higher in the TP group as compared to the PSP group (p = 0.014 and p = 0.033, respectively). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for TBRmax and TBRmean was 0.68 and 0.74, respectively. Using the LDA-based algorithm, the AUC (0.93) was significantly higher than the AUC for TBRmax. This preliminary study shows that in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma, ML-based PSP detection leads to better diagnostic performance.
A New Validity Index Based on Fuzzy Energy and Fuzzy Entropy Measures in Fuzzy Clustering Problems
Authors: Martino Ferdinando Di , Sessa Salvatore
Published: October 2020

Two well-known drawbacks in fuzzy clustering are the requirement of assigning in advance the number of clusters and random initialization of cluster centers. The quality of the final fuzzy clusters depends heavily on the initial choice of the number of clusters and the initialization of the clusters, then, it is necessary to apply a validity index to measure the compactness and the separability of the final clusters and run the clustering algorithm several times. We propose a new fuzzy C-means algorithm in which a validity index based on the concepts of maximum fuzzy energy and minimum fuzzy entropy is applied to initialize the cluster centers and to find the optimal number of clusters and initial cluster centers in order to obtain a good clustering quality, without increasing time consumption. We test our algorithm on UCI (University of California at Irvine) machine learning classification datasets comparing the results with the ones obtained by using well-known validity indices and variations of fuzzy C-means by using optimization algorithms in the initialization phase. The comparison results show that our algorithm represents an optimal trade-off between the quality of clustering and the time consumption.
Optimization of a Wood Pellet Boiler System Combined with CO2HPs in a Cold Climate Area in Japan
Authors: Mori Taro , Iwama Yusuke , Hayama Hirofumi , Mushtaha Emad
Published: October 2020

Hot water supply is one of the leading consumers of energy in the building sector in cold climate areas. The use of woody biomass is effective in reducing CO2 emissions in hot-water supply systems. This report deals with a system that combines a wood pellet boiler (PB) and a heat pump system with CO2 (CO2HP) that is used in a facility for disabled people. The following research was conducted. The operation of a hybrid system combining a PB and CO2HPs was investigated. While operating the system, four specific operations were developed as countermeasures to save on costs and reduce system troubles while reducing CO2 emissions. The processes and results are introduced. Numerical simulations were carried out to optimize the operation. The hot water temperature, water volume, and hot water loads were simulated. The influence of the water volume ratio on the cost and primary energy consumption under the requirements for safe system operation was studied. The regional economic ripple effects (REREs) of this system were studied. The wood pellet boiler is not only a measure for reducing primary energy consumption but can also play an important role in a regional economy for sustainable development in countries that import energy resources such as Japan.
Combination of Pre-Pulse and Constant Pumping Rate Hydraulic Fracturing for Weakening Hard Coal and Rock Mass
Authors: Cheng Qingying , Huang Bingxiang , Shao Luying , Zhao Xinglong , Chen Shuliang , Li Haoze , Wang Changwei
Published: October 2020

The weakening of hard coal–rock mass is the core common problem that is involved in the top coal weakening in hard and thick coal seams, the hard roof control during the initial mining stage in the longwall mining face, and the hanging roof control in the gob of non-coal mine. Based on the characteristics of pulse hydraulic fracturing and constant pumping rate hydraulic fracturing, a weakening method for hard coal–rock mass by combining pre-pulse and constant pumping rate hydraulic fracturing is proposed. A complete set of equipment for the combined pulse and constant pumping rate hydraulic fracturing construction in the underground coal mine is developed. The pulse and constant pumping rate hydraulic fracturing technology and equipment were applied in the top coal weakening of the shallow buried thick coal seam. Compared with no weakening measures for top coal, the average block size of the top coal caving was reduced by 42% after top coal hydraulic fracturing. The recovery rate of the top coal caving mining face reached 85%, and it increased by 18% after hydraulic fracturing.
Performance of Thermoelectric Power-Generation System for Sufficient Recovery and Reuse of Heat Accumulated at Cold Side of TEG with Water-Cooling Energy Exchange Circuit
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Zhang Yuqi , Sui Xiaomei , Li Wenbin , Xu Daochun
Published: October 2020

Aiming to reduce thermal energy loss at the cold side of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) module during thermoelectric conversion, a thermoelectric energy conversion system for heat recovery with a water-cooling energy exchange circuit was devised. The water-cooling energy exchange circuit realized sufficient recovery and reuse of heat accumulated at the cold side of the TEG, reduced the danger of heat accumulation, improved the stability and output capacity of thermoelectric conversion, and provided a low-cost and high-yield energy conversion strategy in energy conversion and utilization. Through the control variable method to adjust the heat generation of the heat source in the thermoelectric conversion, critical parameters (e.g., inner resistance of the TEG, temperatures of thermoelectric modules, temperature differences, output current, voltage, power, and efficiency of thermoelectric conversion) were analyzed and discussed. After using the control variable method to change the ratio of load resistance and internal resistance, the impacts of the ratio of load resistance to inner resistance of the TEG on the entire energy conversion process were elaborated. The results showed that the maximum value of output reached 397.47 mV with a current of 105.56 mA, power of 41.96 mW, and energy conversion efficiency of 1.16%. The power density of the TEG module is 26.225 W/m2. The stability and practicality of the system with a water-cooling energy exchange circuit were demonstrated, providing an effective strategy for the recovery and utilization of heat energy loss in the thermoelectric conversion process.
GJB2 and GJB6 Genetic Variant Curation in an Argentinean Non-Syndromic Hearing-Impaired Cohort
Authors: Buonfiglio Paula , Bruque Carlos D. , Luce Leonela , Giliberto Florencia , Lotersztein Vanesa , Menazzi Sebastián , Paoli Bibiana , Elgoyhen Ana Belén , Dalamón Viviana
Published: October 2020

Genetic variants in GJB2 and GJB6 genes are the most frequent causes of hereditary hearing loss among several deaf populations worldwide. Molecular diagnosis enables proper genetic counseling and medical prognosis to patients. In this study, we present an update of testing results in a cohort of Argentinean non-syndromic hearing-impaired individuals. A total of 48 different sequence variants were detected in genomic DNA from patients referred to our laboratory. They were manually curated and classified based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology ACMG/AMP standards and hearing-loss-gene-specific criteria of the ClinGen Hearing Loss Expert Panel. More than 50% of sequence variants were reclassified from their previous categorization in ClinVar. These results provide an accurately interpreted set of variants to be taken into account by clinicians and the scientific community, and hence, aid the precise genetic counseling to patients.
Plasmid Transfer by Conjugation in Gram-Negative Bacteria: From the Cellular to the Community Level
Authors: Virolle Chloé , Goldlust Kelly , Djermoun Sarah , Bigot Sarah , Lesterlin Christian
Published: October 2020

Bacterial conjugation, also referred to as bacterial sex, is a major horizontal gene transfer mechanism through which DNA is transferred from a donor to a recipient bacterium by direct contact. Conjugation is universally conserved among bacteria and occurs in a wide range of environments (soil, plant surfaces, water, sewage, biofilms, and host-associated bacterial communities). Within these habitats, conjugation drives the rapid evolution and adaptation of bacterial strains by mediating the propagation of various metabolic properties, including symbiotic lifestyle, virulence, biofilm formation, resistance to heavy metals, and, most importantly, resistance to antibiotics. These properties make conjugation a fundamentally important process, and it is thus the focus of extensive study. Here, we review the key steps of plasmid transfer by conjugation in Gram-negative bacteria, by following the life cycle of the F factor during its transfer from the donor to the recipient cell. We also discuss our current knowledge of the extent and impact of conjugation within an environmentally and clinically relevant bacterial habitat, bacterial biofilms.
Existence of Bov-B LINE Retrotransposons in Snake Lineages Reveals Recent Multiple Horizontal Gene Transfers with Copy Number Variation
Authors: Puinongpo Weerada , Singchat Worapong , Petpradub Supaporn , Kraichak Ekaphan , Nunome Mitsuo , Laopichienpong Nararat , Thongchum Ratchaphol , Intarasorn Thanphong , Sillapaprayoon Siwapech , Indananda Chantra , Muangmai Narongrit , Suntrarachun Sunutcha , Baicharoen Sudarath , Chanhome Lawan , Peyachoknagul Surin , Srikulnath Kornsorn
Published: October 2020

Transposable elements (TEs) are dynamic elements present in all eukaryotic genomes. They can “jump” and amplify within the genome and promote segmental genome rearrangements on both autosomes and sex chromosomes by disruption of gene structures. The Bovine-B long interspersed nuclear element (Bov-B LINE) is among the most abundant TE-retrotransposon families in vertebrates due to horizontal transfer (HT) among vertebrate lineages. Recent studies have shown multiple HTs or the presence of diverse Bov-B LINE groups in the snake lineage. It is hypothesized that Bov-B LINEs are highly dynamic and that the diversity reflects multiple HTs in snake lineages. Partial sequences of Bov-B LINE from 23 snake species were characterized. Phylogenetic analysis resolved at least two Bov-B LINE groups that might correspond to henophidian and caenophidian snakes; however, the tree topology differed from that based on functional nuclear and mitochondrial gene sequences. Several Bov-B LINEs of snakes showed greater than 80% similarity to sequences obtained from insects, whereas the two Bov-B LINE groups as well as sequences from the same snake species classified in different Bov-B LINE groups showed sequence similarities of less than 80%. Calculation of estimated divergence time and pairwise divergence between all individual Bov-B LINE copies suggest invasion times ranging from 79.19 to 98.8 million years ago in snakes. Accumulation of elements in a lineage-specific fashion ranged from 9 × 10−6% to 5.63 × 10−2% per genome. The genomic proportion of Bov-B LINEs varied among snake species but was not directly associated with genome size or invasion time. No differentiation in Bov-B LINE copy number between males and females was observed in any of the snake species examined. Incongruence in tree topology between Bov-B LINEs and other snake phylogenies may reflect past HT events. Sequence divergence of Bov-B LINEs between copies suggests that recent multiple HTs occurred within the same evolutionary timeframe in the snake lineage. The proportion of Bov-B LINEs varies among species, reflecting species specificity in TE invasion. The rapid speciation of snakes, coinciding with Bov-B LINE invasion in snake genomes, leads us to better understand the effect of Bov-B LINEs on snake genome evolution.
Bi-Allelic Novel Variants in CLIC5 Identified in a Cameroonian Multiplex Family with Non-Syndromic Hearing Impairment
Authors: Wonkam-Tingang Edmond , Schrauwen Isabelle , Esoh Kevin K. , Bharadwaj Thashi , Nouel-Saied Liz M. , Acharya Anushree , Nasir Abdul , Adadey Samuel M. , Mowla Shaheen , Leal Suzanne M. , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: October 2020

DNA samples from five members of a multiplex non-consanguineous Cameroonian family, segregating prelingual and progressive autosomal recessive non-syndromic sensorineural hearing impairment, underwent whole exome sequencing. We identified novel bi-allelic compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in CLIC5. The variants identified, i.e., the missense [NM_016929.5:c.224T>C; p.(L75P)] and the splicing (NM_016929.5:c.63+1G>A), were validated using Sanger sequencing in all seven available family members and co-segregated with hearing impairment (HI) in the three hearing impaired family members. The three affected individuals were compound heterozygous for both variants, and all unaffected individuals were heterozygous for one of the two variants. Both variants were absent from the genome aggregation database (gnomAD), the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Database (dbSNP), and the UK10K and Greater Middle East (GME) databases, as well as from 122 apparently healthy controls from Cameroon. We also did not identify these pathogenic variants in 118 unrelated sporadic cases of non-syndromic hearing impairment (NSHI) from Cameroon. In silico analysis showed that the missense variant CLIC5-p.(L75P) substitutes a highly conserved amino acid residue (leucine), and is expected to alter the stability, the structure, and the function of the CLIC5 protein, while the splicing variant CLIC5-(c.63+1G>A) is predicted to disrupt a consensus donor splice site and alter the splicing of the pre-mRNA. This study is the second report, worldwide, to describe CLIC5 involvement in human hearing impairment, and thus confirms CLIC5 as a novel non-syndromic hearing impairment gene that should be included in targeted diagnostic gene panels.
Green Supply Chain Decisions Under Different Power Structures: Wholesale Price vs. Revenue Sharing Contract
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Du Wenyi , Sun Yijie
Published: October 2020

In the market, once consumers have a low-carbon preference, they will choose green low-carbon products. The market demand for green products is not only related to product price, but also consumers’ low-carbon preference. In this way, enterprise has to consider the cost of carbon emissions in the process of production and operation. In this paper, we consider a two-level supply chain system composed of a manufacturer and a retailer. The supply chain system can determine the price of products and the level of carbon emission reduction through different supply chain contracts: wholesale price contract and revenue sharing contract. However, the power control structure of a manufacturer and a retailer is different, which will further affect the decision-making strategy of the supply chain system. We set up four models (Wholesale Price—NM and NR, and Revenue-Sharing—SR and SM) of the supply chain with carbon emission reduction, and calculated and analyzed. The results show that firstly, regardless of whether the manufacturer’s power control structure or the retailer power structure is dominant, the manufacturer wholesale price with a contract on revenue-sharing is always higher than on wholesale price, and it is inversely proportional to the revenue-sharing proportion. Secondly, under the two power control structures, the carbon emission level of the manufacturer with a contract on revenue-sharing is always lower than on wholesale price, and it gradually decreases with the increase of the revenue-sharing proportion of the manufacturers. Thirdly, when the retailer dominates the supply chain, the retailer selling price with a contract on revenue-sharing is always higher than on wholesale price. Under the manufacturer’s power control structure, when the revenue-sharing ratio is small, the retailer selling price with a contract on revenue-sharing is higher than on wholesale price; when the revenue-sharing ratio is large, the retailer selling price with a contract on revenue-sharing is lower than on wholesale price. Finally, the validity of the model is verified by an example, and the sensitivity of the parameters is analyzed.
Does Compact Built Environment Help to Reduce Obesity? Influence of Population Density on Waist–Hip Ratio in Chinese Cities
Authors: Yin Chun , Sun Bindong
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to identify the non-linear association between population density and obesity in China and to provide empirical evidence for the public health orientated guideline of urban planning. By conducting a longitudinal study with data collected from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) between 2004 and 2011, we applied fixed-effect models to assess the non-linear association between the compact built environment and waist–hip ratio (WHR), controlling for sex, age, nationality, education, employment status, marital status, household size, household income, and residents’ attitudes. Our findings reveal that the built environment is one of the key determinants of obesity. The U-shaped influence of population density on WHR was observed. Moreover, influence differs according to sex and weight status. Our findings indicate healthy city planning has the potential to improve the built environment to reduce obesity risk and promote public health.
Psychotherapy by Telephone or Internet in Austria and Germany Which CBT Psychotherapists Rate It more Comparable to Face-to-Face Psychotherapy in Personal Contact and Have more Positive Actual Experiences Compared to Previous Expectations?
Authors: Korecka Nicole , Rabenstein Rafael , Pieh Christoph , Stippl Peter , Barke Antonia , Doering Bettina , Gossmann Katharina , Humer Elke , Probst Thomas
Published: October 2020

Objectives: COVID-19 has led to changes in the provision in mental health services. The current study investigated influencing factors on: (i) the comparability of psychotherapy via internet/telephone with psychotherapy in face-to-face contact as well as (ii) the actual experience with psychotherapy via internet/telephone compared to respective prior expectations in CBT therapists. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in the form of an online survey. The research samples, registered cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) psychotherapists in Austria and Germany, were contacted by e-mail. Results: One hundred and ninety CBT therapists were analyzed in this study. The total number of patients treated via telephone/internet is a decisive factor for the subjective evaluation of the comparability of psychotherapy via telephone/internet and psychotherapy in personal contact. This factor also influences the extent (positive/negative) of the assessment of the actual experience with psychotherapy via internet/telephone compared to previous expectations. Neither age nor gender were associated with comparability of psychotherapy via internet/telephone with psychotherapy in face-to-face contact or the actual experience with psychotherapy via internet/telephone compared to respective prior expectations. Conclusions: Implications of the results are that attitudes towards remote psychotherapy might be increased in CBT therapists when they treat more patients remotely and experiences with remote psychotherapies should be included in psychotherapy training.
Examining Liver Cancer Patients and a High-Risk Group in a Vulnerable Area: An Experience from the Ulleung Liver Cancer Prevention and Management Project
Authors: Ryu Dong-Hee , Lee Yu-Mi , Park Ji Mi , Tak Won Young , Hong Nam-Soo
Published: October 2020

Ulleung county is a small island on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula. The Ulleung Liver Cancer Prevention and Management Project was launched in order to minimize newly developing liver cancer within this region. Population-based regional cancer registry data were analyzed to investigate the status and characteristics of registered liver cancer patients. The Interagency Workgroup of the project provided a special screening program from 1 November to 3 November 2018, and from 23 April to 25 April 2019, undertaking liver cancer screening and health behavior surveys. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with recent liver cancer screening. In Ulleung county, hepatocellular carcinoma was identified as the main type of liver cancer, accompanied by a high incidence of hepatitis B. Approximately 25.0% of the participants were not aware of their liver condition. People who were aware of their liver condition and those who reported a general understanding of hepatitis B were more likely to have undergone recent liver cancer screening. To prevent the development and spread of the disease in the community, adequate infrastructure for cancer screening and an enhanced monitoring system are required, along with measures to create awareness to periodically determine liver condition in high-risk groups.
Effect of Bright Light Therapy on Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged and Older Patients Receiving Long-Term Hemodialysis
Authors: Huang Shu-Yi , Koo Malcolm , Hsieh Tsung-Cheng , Lee Ru-Ping , Sung Huei-Chuan
Published: October 2020

Depressive symptoms are common psychiatric comorbidities among individuals receiving long-term hemodialysis. The aim of this two-arm parallel design study is to assess the effects of bright light therapy (BLT) on depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults receiving long-term hemodialysis. Study participants are recruited using convenient sampling from four dialysis clinics in eastern Taiwan. The eligible participants are block-randomized to either the BLT group (n = 30), with 30 min sessions of BLT five times a week for six weeks at their own home, or to the routine care control group (n = 30). The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) scores and the salivary cortisol levels are obtained from the participants at three time points: baseline (T0), week 3 (T1), and week 6 (T2). The results, from the generalized estimating equations, indicate that the decline in the BDI-II scores over time is significant in the BLT group at T1 (β = −7.57, p < 0.001) and at T2 (β = −6.20, p = 0.002) compared to the control group. The decrease in salivary cortisol levels at each visit is also significant in the BLT group at T1 (β = −7.37, p = 0.017) and at T2 (β = −12.22, p = 0.005) compared to the control group. Our findings support the hypothesis that a six-week program of BLT is able to alleviate depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older patients who receive long-term hemodialysis.
Wnt-Independent and Wnt-Dependent Effects of APC Loss on the Chemotherapeutic Response
Authors: Stefanski Casey D. , Prosperi Jenifer R.
Published: October 2020

Resistance to chemotherapy occurs through mechanisms within the epithelial tumor cells or through interactions with components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Chemoresistance and the development of recurrent tumors are two of the leading factors of cancer-related deaths. The Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) tumor suppressor is lost in many different cancers, including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer, and its loss correlates with a decreased overall survival in cancer patients. While APC is commonly known for its role as a negative regulator of the WNT pathway, APC has numerous binding partners and functional roles. Through APC’s interactions with DNA repair proteins, DNA replication proteins, tubulin, and other components, recent evidence has shown that APC regulates the chemotherapy response in cancer cells. In this review article, we provide an overview of some of the cellular processes in which APC participates and how they impact chemoresistance through both epithelial- and TME-derived mechanisms.
Identification of Lymphatic and Hematogenous Routes of Rapidly Labeled Radioactive and Fluorescent Exosomes through Highly Sensitive Multimodal Imaging
Authors: Jung Kyung Oh , Kim Young-Hwa , Chung Seock-Jin , Lee Chul-Hee , Rhee Siyeon , Pratx Guillem , Chung June-Key , Youn Hyewon
Published: October 2020

There has been considerable interest in the clinical use of exosomes as delivery vehicles for treatments as well as for promising diagnostic biomarkers, but the physiological distribution of exosomes must be further elucidated to validate their efficacy and safety. Here, we aimed to develop novel methods to monitor exosome biodistribution in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET) and optical imaging. Exosomes were isolated from cultured mouse breast cancer cells and labeled for PET and optical imaging. In mice, radiolabeled and fluorescently labeled exosomes were injected both via lymphatic and hematogenous metastatic routes. PET and fluorescence images were obtained and quantified. Radioactivity and fluorescence intensity of ex vivo organs were measured. PET signals from exosomes in the lymphatic metastatic route were observed in the draining sentinel lymph nodes. Immunohistochemistry revealed greater exosome uptake in brachial and axillary versus inguinal lymph nodes. Following administration through the hematogenous metastasis pathway, accumulation of exosomes was clearly observed in the lungs, liver, and spleen. Exosomes from tumor cells were successfully labeled with 64Cu (or 68Ga) and fluorescence and were visualized via PET and optical imaging, suggesting that this simultaneous and rapid labeling method could provide valuable information for further exosome translational research and clinical applications.
Precise Regulation of the Basal PKCγ Activity by DGKγ Is Crucial for Motor Coordination
Authors: Tsumagari Ryosuke , Maruo Kenta , Kakizawa Sho , Ueda Shuji , Yamanoue Minoru , Saito Hiromitsu , Suzuki Noboru , Shirai Yasuhito
Published: October 2020

Diacylglycerol kinase γ (DGKγ) is a lipid kinase to convert diacylglycerol (DG) to phosphatidic acid (PA) and indirectly regulates protein kinase C γ (PKCγ) activity. We previously reported that the basal PKCγ upregulation impairs cerebellar long-term depression (LTD) in the conventional DGKγ knockout (KO) mice. However, the precise mechanism in impaired cerebellar LTD by upregulated PKCγ has not been clearly understood. Therefore, we first produced Purkinje cell-specific DGKγ KO (tm1d) mice to investigate the specific function of DGKγ in Purkinje cells and confirmed that tm1d mice showed cerebellar motor dysfunction in the rotarod and beam tests, and the basal PKCγ upregulation but not PKCα in the cerebellum of tm1d mice. Then, the LTD-induced chemical stimulation, K-glu (50 mM KCl + 100 µM, did not induce phosphorylation of PKCα and dissociation of GluR2 and glutamate receptor interacting protein (GRIP) in the acute cerebellar slices of tm1d mice. Furthermore, treatment with the PKCγ inhibitor, scutellarin, rescued cerebellar LTD, with the phosphorylation of PKCα and the dissociation of GluR2 and GRIP. In addition, nonselective transient receptor potential cation channel type 3 (TRPC3) was negatively regulated by upregulated PKCγ. These results demonstrated that DGKγ contributes to cerebellar LTD by regulation of the basal PKCγ activity.
Molecular Control and Application of Male Fertility for Two-Line Hybrid Rice Breeding
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Furqan , Peng Guoqing , Liu Zhenlan , Noman Ali , Alamri Saad , Hashem Mohamed , Qari Sameer H. , Mahmoud al Zoubi Omar
Published: October 2020

The significance of the climate change may involve enhancement of plant growth as well as utilization of the environmental alterations in male fertility (MF) regulation via male sterility (MS) systems. We described that MS systems provide a fundamental platform for improvement in agriculture production and have been explicated for creating bulk germplasm of the two-line hybrids (EGMS) in rice as compared to the three-line, to gain production sustainability and exploit its immense potential. Environmental alterations such as photoperiod and/or temperature and humidity regulate MS in EGMS lines via genetic and epigenetic changes, regulation of the noncoding RNAs, and RNA-metabolism including the transcriptional factors (TFs) implication. Herein, this article enlightens a deep understanding of the molecular control of MF in EGMS lines and exploring the regulatory driving forces that function efficiently during plant adaption under a changing environment. We highlighted a possible solution in obtaining more stable hybrids through apomixis (single-line system) for seed production.
Data Journalism Practices Globally: Skills, Education, Opportunities, and Values
Authors: Heravi Bahareh R. , Lorenz Mirko
Published: October 2020

Despite the growing interest in data journalism in newsrooms and its more recent emergence as an academic discipline, there is a need for systematic research on the state-of-the-art and current data journalism-related practices in newsrooms. The Global Data Journalism survey was an attempt to address this gap by studying the data journalism practices in newsrooms across the world. This study provides a descriptive view of the results of this study and discusses the findings on several aspects of data journalism practice, characteristics of data journalists and data teams, and their skills and educational requirements. We further provide insight into the values associated with journalistic work and analyse the ways in which the community believes data journalism has improved or undermined these values.
An Advanced TiAl Alloy for High-Performance Racing Applications
Authors: Burtscher Michael , Klein Thomas , Lindemann Janny , Lehmann Oliver , Fellmann Holger , Güther Volker , Clemens Helmut , Mayer Svea
Published: October 2020

Requirements and strict regulations for high-performance racing applications involve the use of new and innovative lightweight structural materials. Therefore, intermetallic γ-TiAl-based alloys enable new opportunities in the field due to their lower density compared to commonly used Ni-base superalloys. In this study, a β-solidifying TiAl alloy was examined toward its use as structural material for inlet and outlet valves. The nominal composition of the investigated TNM alloy is Ti–43.5Al–4Nb–1Mo–0.1B (in at%), which enables an excellent formability at elevated temperatures due to the presence of bcc β-phase. Different hot-extrusion tests on an industrial scale were conducted on the cast and hot isostatic pressed material to determine the ideal microstructure for the respective racing application. To simulate these operation conditions, hot tensile tests, as well as rotational bending tests, at room temperature were conducted. With a higher degree of deformation, an increasing strength and fatigue limit was obtained, as well as a significant increment of ductility. The fracture surfaces of the rotational bending test specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, revealing the relationship between crack initiation and microstructural constituents. The results of this study show that the mechanical performance of extruded TiAl material can be tailored via optimizing the degree of hot-extrusion.
Photoinduced Mass Transport in Azo-Polymers in 2D: Monte Carlo Study of Polarization Effects
Authors: Pawlik Grzegorz , Mitus Antoni C.
Published: October 2020

We studied the impact of light polarization on photoinduced dynamics of model azo-polymer chains in two dimensions, using bond-fluctuation Monte Carlo simulations. For two limiting models—sensitive to and independent of light polarization—their dynamics driven by photoisomerization of azo-dyes as well as by thermal effects was studied, including characterization of mass transport and chain reorientations. The corresponding schemes of light–matter interaction promote qualitatively different dynamics of photoinduced motion of azo-polymer chains. In particular, they can inhibit or trigger off a directed mass transport along a gradient of light illumination. The generic dynamics of single chains is superdiffusive and is promoted by breaking a symmetry present in the polarization independent model.
Strain Rate and Porosity Effect on Mechanical Characteristics and Depolarization of Porous Poled PZT95/5 Ceramics
Authors: Jiang Zhaoxiu , Gao Guangfa , Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Yonggang
Published: October 2020

Shock wave compression of poled PZT95/5 ceramics results in rapid depoling and a release of bound charge. Porous PZT95/5 ceramics are superior to dense ceramics in high-voltage breakdown resistance under shock-wave loading. In this article, the mechanical and electrical responses of porous poled PZT95/5 ceramics under uniaxial stresses at different strain rates were investigated using the servo-hydraulic MTS810 universal test machine and the improved split Hopkinson pressure bar system. The engineering stress vs. axial and radial engineering strain curves of porous poled PZT95/5 ceramics under different strain rates exhibit anomalous nonlinear behavior. The nonlinear behavior and depolarization mechanism of porous poled PZT95/5 were attributed to the domain switching and phase transformation. By comparing the stress–strain curves of the porosity porous poled PZT95/5 ceramics at different strain rates, an obvious strain rate sensitivity of mechanical behavior can be found, and the strain rate sensitivity decreases with the increase of porosity. The critical stress of domain switching and phase transformation and the strength increased with increasing strain rate. In addition, their normalized values showed a logarithmic relationship with the strain rate. Finally, we suggest that the maximum polarization released is nearly independent of stress state and strain rate, and it only depends on the porosity.
Effect of Hydrated Lime on Indirect Tensile Stiffness Modulus of Asphalt Concrete Produced in Half-Warm Mix Technology
Authors: Iwański Mateusz M.
Published: October 2020

Half-warm mix asphalt (HWMA) mixtures can be produced at temperatures ranging from 100 °C to 130 °C, depending on the production methods used. The lowest mixing temperature can be achieved by using water-foamed bitumen. The mixture should be characterized by a long service life, defined by the resistance to permanent deformation and high stiffness modulus at temperatures above zero. It is therefore important to ensure the adequately high quality of the bitumen binder. Bitumen 50/70 was provided with appropriate quality foaming characteristics (expansion ratio, ER, half-life, t1/2) by adding a surface-active agent (SAA) at 0.6 wt % before foaming. Then asphalt concrete (AC) 8 S was designed and produced with the recommended water-foamed binder. Hydrated lime, an additive substantially affecting asphalt concrete mechanical parameters, was used at 0, 15, 30, and 45 wt % as a partial replacement for the limestone filler. The influence of the amount of hydrated lime on the content of voids, indirect tensile stiffness modulus at −10 °C, 0 °C, +10 °C, +20 °C, and +30 °C, and the resistance to permanent deformation was investigated. Statistical analysis of the test results showed the quantity of 30% to be the optimum hydrated lime content. The AC 8 S resistance to permanent deformation was determined at the optimum hydrated lime content. The comprehensive evaluation revealed a synergistic effect between bitumen 50/70, modified before foaming with 0.6 wt % SAA and 30 wt % hydrated lime as the limestone filler replacement, and the half warm mixture AC 8 S, in terms of the standard requirements and durability of the HWMA concrete in pavement applications.
Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Dielectric Properties of h-BN/LDPE Composites
Authors: He Lijuan , Zeng Junji , Huang Yuewu , Yang Xiong , Li Dawei , Chen Yu , Yang Xiangyu , Wang Dongbo , Zhang Yunxiao , Fu Zhendong
Published: October 2020

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), as an excellent dielectric insulating material, is widely used in electrical equipment insulation, whereas its low thermal conductivity limits its further development and application. Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) filler was introduced into LDPE to tailor the properties of LDPE to make it more suitable for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable insulation application. We employed melt blending to prepare h-BN/LDPE thermally conductive composite insulation materials with different contents. We focused on investigating the micromorphology and structure, thermal properties, and electrical properties of h-BN/LDPE composites, and explained the space charge characteristics. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results indicate that the h-BN filler has good dispersibility in the LDPE at a low loading (less than 3 phr (3 g of micron h-BN particles filled in 100g of LDPE)), as well as no heterogeneous phase formation. The results of thermal conductivity analysis show that the introduction of h-BN filler can significantly improve the thermal conductivity of composites. The thermal conductivity of the composite samples with 10 phr h-BN particles is as high as 0.51 W/(m·K), which is 57% higher than that of pure LDPE. The electrical performance illustrates that h-BN filler doping can significantly inhibit space charge injection and reduce space charge accumulation in LDPE. The interface effect between h-BN and the substrate reduces the carrier mobility, thereby suppressing the injection of charges of the same polarity and increasing the direct-current (DC) breakdown strength. h-BN/LDPE composite doped with 3 phr h-BN particles has excellent space charge suppression effect and high DC breakdown strength, which is 14.3% higher than that of pure LDPE.
Use of Bilayer Gate Insulator in GaN-on-Si Vertical Trench MOSFETs: Impact on Performance and Reliability
Authors: Mukherjee Kalparupa , De Santi Carlo , Borga Matteo , You Shuzhen , Geens Karen , Bakeroot Benoit , Decoutere Stefaan , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Zanoni Enrico , Meneghini Matteo
Published: October 2020

We propose to use a bilayer insulator (2.5 nm Al2O3 + 35 nm SiO2) as an alternative to a conventional uni-layer Al2O3 (35 nm), for improving the performance and the reliability of GaN-on-Si semi vertical trench MOSFETs. This analysis has been performed on a test vehicle structure for module development, which has a limited OFF-state performance. We demonstrate that devices with the bilayer dielectric present superior reliability characteristics than those with the uni-layer, including: (i) gate leakage two-orders of magnitude lower; (ii) 11 V higher off-state drain breakdown voltage; and (iii) 18 V higher gate-source breakdown voltage. From Weibull slope extractions, the uni-layer shows an extrinsic failure, while the bilayer presents a wear-out mechanism. Extended reliability tests investigate the degradation process, and hot-spots are identified through electroluminescence microscopy. TCAD simulations, in good agreement with measurements, reflect electric field distribution near breakdown for gate and drain stresses, demonstrating a higher electric field during positive gate stress. Furthermore, DC capability of the bilayer and unilayer insulators are found to be comparable for same bias points. Finally, comparison of trapping processes through double pulsed and Vth transient methods confirms that the Vth shifts are similar, despite the additional interface present in the bilayer devices.
Effect of Zr Microalloying on the Microstructures and Strengthening Mechanism of As-Cast Al-Fe-Zr Alloys
Authors: Ye Jieyun , Guan Renguo , Zhao Hongjin , He Changwei , Xiong Kezhi
Published: October 2020

The microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-0.35Fe alloys with a series of different zirconium (Zr) additions from 0.1 to 0.4% are investigated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and tensile testing. The as-cast structure of the alloys varies with the Zr content. When the content of Zr is 0.1%, Zr dissolves into the aluminum (Al) matrix completely and iron (Fe) concentrates along the boundary in a network of eutectic Al3Fe. With the increase in Zr content to 0.2% and above, nanoscale Al3Zr particles appear in the alloy. With the Zr content increasing from 0.1 to 0.4%, the grain size of the Al matrix decreases from 73 to 23 μm. The morphology of the eutectic Al3Fe phase changes from short rod-like to an agglomerated structure consisting of finer and shorter rod-like shapes. The tensile and yield strengths increase while the total elongation decreases with increasing Zr content. The strengthening mechanism of the alloy can be attributed to the combination of fine-grain, solution and second-phase strengthening.
The Circular Life of Human CD38: From Basic Science to Clinics and Back
Authors: Horenstein Alberto L. , Faini Angelo C. , Morandi Fabio , Bracci Cristiano , Lanza Francesco , Giuliani Nicola , Paulus Aneel , Malavasi Fabio
Published: October 2020

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were initially considered as a possible “magic bullet” for in vivo elimination of tumor cells. mAbs represented the first step: however, as they were murine in nature (the earliest experience on the field), they were considered unfit for human applications. This prompted the development of techniques for cloning the variable regions of conventional murine antibodies, genetically mounted on human IgG. The last step in this years-long process was the design for the preparation of fully human reagents. The choice of the target molecule was also problematic, since cancer-specific targets are quite limited in number. To overcome this obstacle in the planning phases of antibody-mediated therapy, attention was focused on a set of normal molecules, whose quantitative distribution may balance a tissue-dependent generalized expression. The results and clinical success obtained with anti-CD20 mAbs revived interest in this type of strategy. Using multiple myeloma (MM) as a tumor model was challenging first of all because the plasma cells and their neoplastic counterpart eluded the efforts of the Workshop on Differentiation Antigens to find a target molecule exclusively expressed by these cells. For this reason, attention was turned to surface molecules which fulfill the requisites of being reasonably good targets, even if not specifically restricted to tumor cells. In 2009, we proposed CD38 as a MM target in virtue of its expression: it is absent on early hematological progenitors, has variable but generalized limited expression by normal cells, but is extremely high in plasma cells and in myeloma. Further, regulation of its expression appeared to be dependent on a variety of factors, including exposure to all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a potent and highly specific inducer of CD38 expression in human promyelocytic leukemia cells that are now approved for in vivo use. This review discusses the history of human CD38, from its initial characterization to its targeting in antibody-mediated therapy of human myeloma.
Engineering Stem Cell Factor Ligands with Different c-Kit Agonistic Potencies
Authors: Tilayov Tal , Hingaly Tal , Greenshpan Yariv , Cohen Shira , Akabayov Barak , Gazit Roi , Papo Niv
Published: October 2020

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are major players in signal transduction, regulating cellular activities in both normal regeneration and malignancy. Thus, many RTKs, c-Kit among them, play key roles in the function of both normal and neoplastic cells, and as such constitute attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. We thus sought to manipulate the self-association of stem cell factor (SCF), the cognate ligand of c-Kit, and hence its suboptimal affinity and activation potency for c-Kit. To this end, we used directed evolution to engineer SCF variants having different c-Kit activation potencies. Our yeast-displayed SCF mutant (SCFM) library screens identified altered dimerization potential and increased affinity for c-Kit by specific SCF-variants. We demonstrated the delicate balance between SCF homo-dimerization, c-Kit binding, and agonistic potencies by structural studies, in vitro binding assays and a functional angiogenesis assay. Importantly, our findings showed that a monomeric SCF variant exhibited superior agonistic potency vs. the wild-type SCF protein and vs. other high-affinity dimeric SCF variants. Our data showed that action of the monomeric ligands in binding to the RTK monomers and inducing receptor dimerization and hence activation was superior to that of the wild-type dimeric ligand, which has a higher affinity to RTK dimers but a lower activation potential. The findings of this study on the binding and c-Kit activation of engineered SCF variants thus provides insights into the structure–function dynamics of ligands and RTKs.
Influence of Sputtering Temperature of TiO2 Deposited onto Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheet as Efficient Photoanodes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Low Foo Wah , Chin Hock Goh , Kashif Muhammad , Samsudin Nurul Asma , Chau Chien Fat , Indah Utami Amaliyah Rohsari , Aminul Islam Mohammad , Heah Cheng Yong , Liew Yun Ming , Lai Chin Wei , Amin Nowshad , Tiong Sieh Kiong
Published: October 2020

Renewable solar energy is the key target to reduce fossil fuel consumption, minimize global warming issues, and indirectly minimizes erratic weather patterns. Herein, the authors synthesized an ultrathin reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheet with ~47 nm via an improved Hummer’s method. The TiO2 was deposited by RF sputtering onto an rGO nanosheet with a variation of temperature to enhance the photogenerated electron or charge carrier mobility transport for the photoanode component. The morphology, topologies, element composition, crystallinity as well as dye-sensitized solar cells’ (DSSCs) performance were determined accordingly. Based on the results, FTIR spectra revealed presence of Ti-O-C bonds in every rGO-TiO2 nanocomposite samples at 800 cm–1. Besides, XRD revealed that a broad peak of anatase TiO2 was detected at ~25.4° after incorporation with the rGO. Furthermore, it was discovered that sputtering temperature of 120 °C created a desired power conversion energy (PCE) of 7.27% based on the J-V plot. Further increase of the sputtering temperature to 160 °C and 200 °C led to excessive TiO2 growth on the rGO nanosheet, thus resulting in undesirable charge recombination formed at the photoanode in the DSSC device.