bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benign infiltrative myofibroblastic neoplasms of childhood with USP6 gene rearrangement
Authors: Malik Faizan , Wang Lu , Yu Zhongxin , Edelman Morris C , Miles Lili , Clay Michael R , Hedges Dale , Brennan Rachel C , Nichols Kim E , Beth McCarville M , Bahrami Armita
Published: June 2020

Aims

Several morphologically overlapping (myo)fibroblastic neoplasms harbour USP6 fusions, including aneurysmal bone cysts, nodular fasciitis, myositis ossificans, cranial fasciitis, fibro‐osseous pseudotumour of the digits, and cellular fibroma of the tendon sheath. USP6‐induced neoplasms are almost universally benign and cured by local excision. We aim to highlight the diagnostic value of USP6 fusion detection in a series of aggressive‐appearing paediatric myofibroblastic tumours.

Methods and results

Three deep‐seated, radiographically aggressive, and rapidly growing childhood myofibroblastic neoplasms were morphologically and molecularly characterised by USP6 break‐apart fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation (FISH), transcriptome sequencing, and targeted capture analysis. Each tumour occurred in the lower‐extremity deep soft tissue of a child presenting with pain, limping, or a mass. In all three patients, imaging studies showed a solid mass that infiltrated into surrounding skeletal muscle or involved/eroded underlying bone. The biopsied tumours consisted of variably cellular myofibroblastic proliferations with variable mitotic activity that lacked overt malignant cytological features. FISH showed that all tumours had USP6 rearrangements. On the basis of these results, all three patients were treated with conservative excision with positive margins. The excised tumours had foci resembling nodular fasciitis, fibromatosis, and pseudosarcomatous proliferation. Next‐generation sequencing revealed COL1A1–USP6 fusions in two tumours and a COL3A1–USP6 fusion in the third tumour. One tumour had a subclonal somatic APC in‐frame deletion. No recurrence was observed during follow‐up (8–40 months).

Conclusion

We present a series of benign, but aggressive‐appearing, USP6‐rearranged myofibroblastic tumours. These deep‐seated tumours had concerning clinical and radiographic presentations and did not fit into one distinct histological category. These cases highlight the diagnostic value of USP6 fusion detection to identify benign nondescript tumours of this group, especially those with aggressive features, to avoid overtreatment.
The role of innate immunity in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ennerfelt Hannah E. , Lukens John R.
Published: June 2020

The amyloid hypothesis has dominated Alzheimer's disease (AD) research for almost 30 years. This hypothesis hinges on the predominant clinical role of the amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide in propagating neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and eventual cognitive impairment in AD. Recent research in the AD field has identified the brain‐resident macrophages, known as microglia, and their receptors as integral regulators of both the initiation and propagation of inflammation, Aβ accumulation, neuronal loss, and memory decline in AD. Emerging studies have also begun to reveal critical roles for distinct innate immune pathways in AD pathogenesis, which has led to great interest in harnessing the innate immune response as a therapeutic strategy to treat AD. In this review, we will highlight recent advancements in our understanding of innate immunity and inflammation in AD onset and progression. Additionally, there has been mounting evidence suggesting pivotal contributions of environmental factors and lifestyle choices in AD pathogenesis. Therefore, we will also discuss recent findings, suggesting that many of these AD risk factors influence AD progression via modulation of microglia and immune responses.
Densification, mechanical, and tribological properties of ZrB2‐ZrCx composites produced by reactive hot pressing
Authors: Kannan Rajaguru , Rangaraj Lingappa
Published: June 2020

ZrB2‐ZrCx composites were produced using Zr:B4C powder mixtures in the molar ratios of 3:1, 3.5:1, 4:1, and 5:1 by reactive hot pressing (RHP) at 4‐7 MPa, 1200°C for 60 minutes. X‐ray diffraction analyses confirmed the formation of nonstoichiometric zirconium carbide (ZrCx) with different lattice parameters and enhanced carbide formation by increasing the Zr mole fraction. An increase in applied pressure from 4 to 7 MPa was responsible for the improved relative density (RD) of 4Zr:B4C composition from 86% to 99%. Microstructural studies on Zr‐rich composites showed a reduction in unreacted B4C particles and enriched elongated ZrB2 platelets. Reaction and densification mechanism in 4Zr:B4C composition were studied as a function of temperature increased from 600 to 1200°C at an applied constant pressure of 7 MPa. After 1000°C, <40 vol.% of unreacted Zr was observed during the densification process. Concurrently, low energies of carbon diffusion and carbon vacancy formation were found to enhance nonstoichiometric ZrCx formation, which was found to be responsible for the completion of the reaction. The plastic deformation of unreacted Zr was responsible for the densification of the ZrB2‐ZrCx composite. The results clearly showed that the applied pressure is five times lower than the reported values. Moreover, a temperature of 1200°C was sufficient to produce dense ZrB2‐ZrCx composites. The improved microhardness, flexural strength, fracture toughness, and specific wear rate were 8.2‐15 GPa, 265‐590 MPa, 2.82‐6.33 MPa.m1/2, and 1.43‐0.376 × 10−2 mm2/N, respectively.
Outcomes of incident atrial fibrillation in heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction: A community‐based study
Authors: Zhang Pei , Chamberlain Alanna M. , Hodge David O. , Cai Cheng , Xiao Pei L. , Han Jie , Jiang Chen‐Yang , Redfield Margaret M. , Roger Veronique L. , Cha Yong‐Mei
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The best management strategy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) with heart failure (HF) and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is unknown.

Methods and Results

This cohort study was conducted in Olmsted County, Minnesota, with resources of the Rochester Epidemiology Project. Patients with incident AF occurring between 2000 and 2014 with a prior or concurrent HF were included. Patients with LVEF ≥ 50% were designated as HF and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and those with LVEF < 50% were designated as HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Rhythm control in the first year after AF diagnosis was defined as prescriptions for an antiarrhythmic drug, catheter ablation, or maze procedure. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. The secondary endpoints were cardiovascular death, cardiovascular hospitalization, and stroke or transient ischemic attack. Of 859 patients (age, 77.2 ± 12.1 years; 49.2%, female), 447 had HFpEF‐AF, and 412 had HFrEF‐AF. There was no difference in all‐cause mortality (10‐year mortality, 83% vs 79%; p = .54) or secondary endpoints between the HFpEF‐AF and HFrEF‐AF, respectively. Compared with the rate control strategy, rhythm control in HFpEF‐AF patients (n = 40, 15.9%) offered no survival benefits (adjusted HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.42–1.16; p = .16), whereas rhythm control in HFrEF‐AF patients (n = 52, 22.5%) decrease cardiovascular mortality (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17–0.86; p = .02).

Conclusions

Patients with HFpEF‐AF and HFrEF‐AF had similar poor prognoses. Rhythm control strategy was seldom adopted in community care in patients with HF and AF. A rhythm control strategy may provide survival benefit for patients with HFrEF‐AF and the benefit of rhythm control in patients with HFpEF‐AF warrants further study.
Growth differentiation factor 11 promotes differentiation of MSCs into endothelial‐like cells for angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Chi , Lin Yinuo , Liu Qi , He Junhua , Xiang Pingping , Wang Dianliang , Hu Xinyang , Chen Jinghai , Zhu Wei , Yu Hong
Published: June 2020

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a member of the transforming growth factor‐β super family. It has multiple effects on development, physiology and diseases. However, the role of GDF11 in the development of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is not clear. To explore the effects of GDF11 on the differentiation and pro‐angiogenic activities of MSCs, mouse bone marrow–derived MSCs were engineered to overexpress GDF11 (MSCGDF11) and their capacity for differentiation and paracrine actions were examined both in vitro and in vivo. Expression of endothelial markers CD31 and VEGFR2 at the levels of both mRNA and protein was significantly higher in MSCGDF11 than control MSCs (MSCVector) during differentiation. More tube formation was observed in MSCGDF11 as compared with controls. In an in vivo angiogenesis assay with Matrigel plug, MSCGDF11 showed more differentiation into CD31+ endothelial‐like cells and better pro‐angiogenic activity as compared with MSCVector. Mechanistically, the enhanced differentiation by GDF11 involved activation of extracellular‐signal‐related kinase (ERK) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (EIF4E). Inhibition of either TGF‐β receptor or ERK diminished the effect of GDF11 on MSC differentiation. In summary, our study unveils the function of GDF11 in the pro‐angiogenic activities of MSCs by enhancing endothelial differentiation via the TGFβ‐R/ERK/EIF4E pathway.
Exosomal MiR‐500a‐3p promotes cisplatin resistance and stemness via negatively regulating FBXW7 in gastric cancer
Authors: Lin Hao , Zhang Liang , Zhang Caihua , Liu Pengpeng
Published: June 2020

Chemoresistance has been a major challenge in advanced gastric cancer (GC) therapy. Exosomal transfer of oncogenic miRNAs implicates important effects in mediating recipient cell chemoresistance by transmitting active molecules. In this study, we found that microRNA‐500a‐3p was highly expressed in cisplatin (DDP) resistant GC cells (MGC803/DDP and MKN45/DDP) and their secreted exosomes than that in the corresponding parental cells. MGC803/DDP‐derived exosomes enhance DDP resistance and stemness properties of MGC803 recipient cells via exosomal delivery of miR‐500a‐3p in vitro and in vivo through targeting FBXW7. However, reintroduction of FBXW7 in MGC803 cells reverses miR‐500a‐3p‐mediated DDP resistance as well as stemness properties. Furthermore, elevated miR‐500a‐3p in the plasma exosomes of GC patients is correlated with DDP resistance and thereby results in poor progression‐free prognosis. Our finding highlights the potential of exosomal miR‐500a‐3p as an potential modality for the prediction and treatment of GC with chemoresistance.
TIPE1‐mediated autophagy suppression promotes nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell proliferation via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway
Authors: Liu Yongliang , Qi Xiangqin , Zhao Zhenan , Song Daoliang , Wang Lianqing , Zhai Qiaoli , Zhang Xiaoning , Zhao Peiqing , Xiang Xinxin
Published: June 2020

Recent studies have shown that tumour necrosis factor‐α–induced protein 8 like‐1(TIPE1) plays distinct roles in different cancers. TIPE1 inhibits tumour proliferation and metastasis in a variety of tumours but acts as an oncogene in cervical cancer. The role of TIPE1 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unknown. Interestingly, TIPE1 expression was remarkably increased in NPC tissue samples compared to adjacent normal nasopharyngeal epithelial tissue samples in our study. TIPE1 expression was positively correlated with that of the proliferation marker Ki67 and negatively correlated with patient lifespan. In vitro, TIPE1 inhibited autophagy and induced cell proliferation in TIPE1‐overexpressing CNE‐1 and CNE‐2Z cells. In addition, knocking down TIPE1 expression promoted autophagy and decreased proliferation, whereas overexpressing TIPE1 increased the levels of pmTOR, pS6 and P62 and decreased the level of pAMPK and the LC3B. Furthermore, the decrease in autophagy was remarkably rescued in TIPE1‐overexpressing CNE‐1 and CNE‐2Z cells treated with the AMPK activator AICAR. In addition, TIPE1 promoted tumour growth in BALB/c nude mice. Taken together, results indicate that TIPE1 promotes NPC progression by inhibiting autophagy and inducing cell proliferation via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway. Thus, TIPE1 could potentially be used as a valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for NPC.
The influence of processing conditions on kinetics, anthocyanin profile and antioxidant activity of purple sweet potato subjected to hot air drying
Authors: Wang Junmin , Wu Guangxu , Wang Zhineng , Shu Bin , Li Li , Zhang Ruifen , Huang Fei , Dong Lihong , Zhang Mingwei , Chen Suo , Su Dongxiao
Published: June 2020

Purple sweet potato is rich in anthocyanins. The influence of hot air drying on the physical properties, anthocyanin profile and antioxidant capacity of purple sweet potato was explored at six different temperatures (60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110°C), three different paving densities and six different dimensions. The results show that the hot air drying kinetics of purple sweet potato were best described by the Page model. The samples dried at 60°C had the highest rehydration rate (2.64), and there was no significant difference between 80 and 60°C. There were no significant differences among the colors of the samples dried at 60, 70, 80, and 90°C, but they were quite different from that dried at 110°C. Four anthocyanins were identified by HPLC–MS/MS as cyanidin 3‐sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, peonidin 3‐sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, cyanidin 3‐p‐hydroxybenzoylsophoroside‐5‐glucoside and peonidin 3‐p‐hydroxybenzoylsophoroside‐5‐glucoside and determined by HPLC‐DAD, and the anthocyanin contents of the samples dried at 80°C were 609.08 ± 3.26, 82.75 ± 0.33, 265.88 ± 0.93, and 179.74 ± 1.35 mg/100 g DW, respectively. The highest ORAC antioxidant capacity was found in samples dried at 80°C (130.94 ± 2.59 μmol TE/g). Based on these studies, 80°C is most suitable for the hot air drying of purple sweet potato.

Practical applications

Purple sweet potatoes have good antioxidant capacity, which is good for health and loved by consumers. Fresh purple sweet potatoes are not easy to store, but the storage time can be prolonged after hot air drying. This study detected the influence of hot air drying on the drying kinetic, color, rehydration, microstructure, and anthocyanin content of purple sweet potato. Compared with dimension and paving density, the influence of drying temperature is greater. Among six temperatures, 80°C is most suitable for the hot air drying of purple sweet potato. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of purple sweet potato as a functional food.
Estimating design flood runoff volume
Authors: Vesuviano Gianni , Stewart Elizabeth , Young Andrew R.
Published: June 2020

Standard flood risk estimation methods in the United Kingdom have largely focused on peak flows at ungauged locations. However, the importance of whole‐hydrograph and event volume estimation in a design context is increasing with the application of unsteady‐state hydraulic models and construction of sustainable drainage systems. Here, we explore the relationship between peak flow estimation accuracy and flood volume estimation accuracy across 780 events in 81 catchments. Runoff hydrographs are modelled using ReFH2, a rainfall‐runoff model widely used by practitioners for design flood estimation in the UK. We find that strong performance in peak flow estimation is highly correlated with strong performance in event volume estimation, and that between‐event variation in performance is greater than the typical reduction in performance when moving from calibrated to design (regression‐based) model parameters. Unfortunately, evaluating model performance in terms of runoff volume is complicated by the fact that measured rainfall hyetographs and runoff hydrographs are themselves estimates that can disagree with each other for legitimate reasons. We demonstrate that it is not always possible, expected or realistic to close the water balance over an event in a topographically defined river catchment. Hence, ‘errors’ in modelled hydrographs cannot be solely attributed to modelling deficiencies.
In vitro metabolic characterization of orbitazine, a novel derivative of the PAC-1 anticancer agent
Authors: Li Fang , Han Xuhua , Chen Yanfen , Wang Shanshan , Cheng Zeneng , Hu Gaoyun , Liu Wenjie , Zhu Qubo
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The in vitro evaluation of new drugs is an important step in the drug development pipeline. Orbitazine is a derivative of PAC-1 that has substituted the functional group homopiperazine ring with a piperazine ring. The purpose of this study was to assess the metabolic profile of orbitazine.

Methods

Metabolism was characterized in vitro by incubating liver microsomes with metabolize orbitazine or the classical metabolic enzyme substrates. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and LC-MS/MS were used to identify the parent drugs and metabolites of orbitazine or metabolic enzyme substrates.

Key findings

There was no difference in metabolic stability or metabolites across different species. The metabolites included a debenzyl compound and several hydroxyl compounds, defined as M1(316), M2(440), M3(422), M4(422) and M5(422). We found that orbitazine was metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C9 and CYP2D6 in a human liver microsomes incubation system. Orbitazine had no significant inhibitory effect on CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19 in human liver microsomes, but showed a dose-dependent inhibition of CYP2C8, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4; and there was no orbitazine-mediated induction of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP3A4 or mRNA expression in hepatocytes.

Conclusions

This in vitro data on the metabolism of orbitazine may provide valuable information to support further clinical progression as a potential therapeutic molecule.
Prevalence and management of chronic insomnia in Swiss primary care: Cross‐sectional data from the “Sentinella” practice‐based research network
Authors: Maire Micheline , Linder Stefanie , Dvořák Charles , Merlo Christoph , Essig Stefan , Tal Kali , Del Giovane Cinzia , Syrogiannouli Lamprini , Duss Simone B. , Heinzer Raphael , Nissen Christoph , Bassetti Claudio L. A. , Auer Reto
Published: June 2020

We investigated the prevalence and treatment of patients with chronic insomnia presenting to Swiss primary care physicians (PCPs) part of “Sentinella”, a nationwide practice‐based research network. Each PCP consecutively asked 40 patients if they had sleep complaints, documented frequency, duration, comorbidities, and reported ongoing treatment. We analysed data of 63% (83/132) of the PCPs invited. The PCPs asked 76% (2,432/3,216) of included patients about their sleep (51% female); 31% (761/2,432) of these had had insomnia symptoms; 36% (875/2,432) had current insomnia symptoms; 11% (269/2,432) met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‐5) criteria for chronic insomnia (61% female). In all, 75% (201/269) of patients with chronic insomnia had comorbidities, with 49% (99/201) reporting depression. Chronic insomnia was treated in 78% (209/269); 70% (188/268) took medication, 38% (102/268) benzodiazepines or benzodiazepine receptor agonists, 32% (86/268) took antidepressants. Only 1% (three of 268) had been treated with cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I). A third of patients presenting for a non‐urgent visit in Swiss primary care reported insomnia symptoms and 11% met the DSM‐5 criteria for chronic insomnia. Hypnotics were the most common treatment, but almost no patients received first‐line CBT‐I. Reducing the burden of insomnia depends on disseminating knowledge about and access to CBT‐I, and encouraging PCPs to discuss it with and offer it as a first‐line treatment to patients with chronic insomnia.
Dysbiosis is not present in horses with fecal water syndrome when compared to controls in spring and autumn
Authors: Schoster Angelika , Weese J. Scott , Gerber Vinzenz , Nicole Graubner Claudia
Published: June 2020

Background

Fecal water syndrome (FWS) is long‐standing and common in horses, particularly in central Europe. No large epidemiological data sets exist, and the cause remains elusive. Dysbiosis could play a role in pathogenesis.

Objectives

To evaluate whether dysbiosis is present in horses with FWS when compared to stable‐matched control horses in spring and autumn.

Animals

Fecal samples were collected from horses with FWS (n = 16; 9 mares, 7 geldings) and controls (n = 15; 8 mares, 7 geldings).

Methods

The bacterial microbiome of samples collected in spring and autumn of 2016 was analyzed using high‐throughput sequencing. Differences in relative abundance of bacterial taxa, alpha diversity, and beta diversity indices were assessed between horses with FWS and controls based on season.

Results

Differences in microbial community composition based on time point and health status were not observed on any taxonomic level. Limited differences were seen on linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis. No difference in alpha diversity indices was observed including richness, diversity based on health status, or time point. No effect of health status on microbial community membership structure was observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Limited differences were found in the bacterial microbiota of horses with and without FWS, regardless of season. Further research is needed to elucidate the role of microbiota in the development of FWS.
Protecting the Citadel of Islam in the Modern Era: A Case of Shiʿi Mujtahids and the Najaf Seminary in Early Twentieth‐Century Iraq
Authors: Kalantari Mohammad R.
Published: June 2020

The concept of protecting the Citadel of Islam (Hifẓ Bayzat al‐Islam), is common in the lexicon of Shiʿi political jurisprudence. It refers to those Islamic principles and foundations without which the existence of Islam and the Muslim community would be in danger. During the Occultation Era, Shiʿi mujtahids, as general deputies of the Hidden Imam, are believed to commit their utmost effort to fulfilling this sacrosanct responsibility. The meaning and applications of the concept have been evolved throughout the Shiʿi history. A noteworthy case of protecting the citadel of Islam is the position of Sayyid Abu’l‐Ḥasan al‐Iṣfahānī (1867‐1946) and Mirza Muḥammad‐Ḥusayn Nāʾīnī (1862‐1937), vis‐à‐vis the Najaf seminary and the newly established Hashemite dynasty in early twentieth century. This paper aims to shed more light on the concept of the Citadel of Islam, its implications in Shiʿi political thought, and contemporary applications.
Organization of Bone Sarcoma Care: A Cross‐Sectional European Study
Authors: Goedhart Louren Matthias , Leithner Andreas , Jutte Paul Christiaan
Published: June 2020

Objective

To assess organization of care in several bone sarcoma centers in Europe affiliated with the European Musculoskeletal Oncology Society (EMSOS) for comparison and to identify potential improvements in organization of care.

Methods

Data for this observational cross‐sectional study was obtained through healthcare professionals affiliated to EMSOS. The authors formulated 10 questions regarding organization of care. The questions were focused on guidance, multidisciplinary decision‐making, and data storage. A digital questionnaire was synthesized and included quality control. The digital questionnaire was sent to 54 representative members of EMSOS. We did not receive responses from 29 representative countries (53.7%) after one digital invitation and two digital reminders.

Results

We received data from 25 representatives of bone sarcoma centers from 17 countries across Europe (46.3%). Authorization to perform oncological care in a bone sarcoma center was government issued in 41.2% of cases and based on expertise without governmental influence in 52.9% of cases. In 64.7% of the countries, a national bone tumor guideline regarding for diagnosis and treatment is used in oncological care. A national bone tumor board for extensive case evaluation including classification and advice for treatment is available for 47.1% of the countries. All participating bone sarcoma centers have a mandatory local multidisciplinary meeting before the start of treatment; in 84.0% this meeting takes place once a week. During this multidisciplinary meeting a median of 15 cases (range, 4–40 cases) are discussed. In terms of storage of oncological data, a local registry is used in eight countries (47.1%). A national registry is used in eight countries (47.1%).

Conclusions

A national bone tumor board gives bone sarcoma centers with little adherence the opportunity to gain knowledge from a more experienced team. Centralization of care in a bone sarcoma center is important to lower incidences. The optimal size for a bone sarcoma center in terms of patient adherence is not known at present.
Physical activity in a pandemic: A new treatment target for psychological therapy
Authors: Diamond Rowan , Waite Felicity
Published: June 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic and its management are placing significant new strains on people’s well‐being, particularly those with pre‐existing mental health conditions. Physical activity has been shown to improve mental as well as physical health. Increasing activity levels should be prioritized as a treatment target, especially when the barriers to exercise are greater than ever. Promoting physical activity has not traditionally been the remit of psychologists. Yet psychological theory and therapeutic techniques can be readily applied to address physical inactivity. We present theoretical perspectives and therapy techniques relating to (1) beliefs about physical activity, (2) motivation to be physically active, and (3) the sense of reward achieved through being physically active. We outline strategies to initiate and maintain physical activity during the COVID‐19 pandemic, thereby benefitting mental and physical health. COVID‐19 is demanding rapid and substantial change across the whole health care system. Psychological therapists can respond creatively by addressing physical activity, a treatable clinical target which delivers both mental and physical health benefits.

Practitioner points

Physical activity is essential for our mental and physical health.

Yet COVID‐19 presents novel barriers to physical activity.

Psychological theory and techniques to address beliefs, motivation, and reward can be applied to increase physical activity during COVID‐19.

Physical activity is an important clinical target to sustain and improve mental health, especially in the current pandemic.
Winners And Losers In Coronavirus Times: Financialisation, Financial Chains and Emerging Economic Geographies of The Covid‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Sokol Martin , Pataccini Leonardo
Published: June 2020

This paper has two interrelated aims. First, it attempts to sketch a preliminary map of economic winners and losers to highlight the emerging economic geographies of the coronavirus pandemic. Second, it aims to explore the links between these emerging economic geographies and the processes of ‘financialisation’, drawing on the concept of ‘financial chains’. Regarding the first aim, the paper argues that the pandemic‐induced crisis will exacerbate social inequalities and deepen uneven development at multiple geographical scales. Regarding the second aim, the paper argues that the ‘financialisation’ perspective in general, and the concept of ‘financial chains’ in particular, provide useful insights into the crisis and its uneven effects, by shedding light on the complex web of flows of value and power relations established/emerging between the prospective winners and losers. It also highlights the prominent role of debt and debt‐based financial chains in shaping economic geographies in times of major global crisis.
CityJSON in QGIS: Development of an open‐source plugin
Authors: Vitalis Stelios , Arroyo Ohori Ken , Stoter Jantien
Published: June 2020

When QGIS 3.0 was released in 2018, it added support for 3D visualisation. At the same time, CityJSON has been developing as an easy‐to‐use JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) encoding for 3D city models using the CityGML 2.0 data model. Together, this opened the possibility to support semantic 3D city models in the popular open‐source GIS software for the first time. In order to add support for 3D city models in QGIS, we have developed a plugin that enables CityJSON datasets to be loaded. The plugin parses a CityJSON file and analyses its tree structure to identify all city objects. Then, the geometry and attributes of every city object are transformed into QGIS features and divided into layers according to user preferences. CityJSON parsing was proven to be straightforward and consistent when tested against several open datasets. One of the biggest challenges we faced, though, was mapping CityJSON’s hierarchical data structure to the relational model of QGIS. We undertook this issue by providing various methods on how geometries from the model are loaded as QGIS features. We intend to use the plugin for educational purposes in our university and we believe it can be proven a worthy tool for researchers and practitioners.
Prediction of Hydroplaning Potential Using Fully Coupled Finite Element-Computational Fluid Dynamics Tire Models
Authors: Nazari Ashkan , Chen Lu , Battaglia Francine , Ferris John B. , Flintsch Gerardo , Taheri Saied
Published: June 2020

Hydroplaning is a phenomenon that occurs when a layer of water between the tire and pavement pushes the tire upward. The tire detaches from the pavement, preventing it from providing sufficient forces and moments for the vehicle to respond to driver control inputs such as breaking, accelerating, and steering. This work is mainly focused on the tire and its interaction with the pavement to address hydroplaning. Using a tire model that is validated based on results found in the literature, fluid–structure interaction (FSI) between the tire-water-road surfaces is investigated through two approaches. In the first approach, the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) formulation was used. The drawback associated with the CEL method is the laminar assumption and that the behavior of the fluid at length scales smaller than the smallest element size is not captured. To improve the simulation results, in the second approach, an FSI model incorporating finite element methods (FEMs) and the Navier–Stokes equations for a two-phase flow of water and air, and the shear stress transport k–ω turbulence model, was developed and validated, improving the prediction of real hydroplaning scenarios. With large computational and processing requirements, a grid dependence study was conducted for the tire simulations to minimize the mesh size yet retain numerical accuracy. The improved FSI model was applied to hydroplaning speed and cornering force scenarios.
Effects of High-Temperature Storage on the Glass Transition Temperature of Epoxy Molding Compound
Authors: Li Ruifeng , Yang Daoguo , Zhang Ping , Niu Fanfan , Cai Miao , Zhang G. Q.
Published: June 2020

This article describes research on changes of glass transition temperature of electron encapsulated polymer-epoxy molding compound (EMC) after thermal oxidation under high-temperature air storage conditions. The evolutions of glass transition temperature of two EMCs with different compositions (different filling contents) under different temperatures (175, 200, and 225 °C) and different aging times (100, 500, and 1500 h) were analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) technology. Research results demonstrated that two glass transition temperatures occurred during thermal aging. These two temperatures were the glass transition temperature of the unaged core material (Tg1) and the glass transition temperature of completely oxidized surface material (Tg2). Tg2 increased continuously with the increase of temperature and the prolonging of the aging time. The filling content could have significantly influenced the aging degree of materials.
3D-printed and injection molded polymer matrix composites with 2D layered materials
Authors: Gamboa Gerardo , Mazumder Sangram , Hnatchuk Nathalie , Catalan Jorge A. , Cortes Damaris , Chen IKang , Perez Perla , Brostow Witold , Kaul Anupama B.
Published: June 2020

Two-dimensional layered materials (2DLMs), MoS2 and WS2, and three-dimensional (3D) graphite were infused in thermoplastic polymer matrices comprised of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG). Two processing approaches were examined for creating polymer tensile test specimens using the composites for mechanical testing, which included three-dimensional (3D) printing and injection molding. The ductility generally decreased with the addition of the fillers indicated by an increase in Young’s modulus and a corresponding decrease in yield stress and tensile stress for the 2DLM-polymer composites. The dynamic friction data of the composites were measured in an attempt to exploit the solid phase lubricating properties of graphite and the 2DLM fillers. Graphite proved to lower the dynamic friction in the cases of 3D printed PETG and injection molded ABS, while MoS2 and WS2 were found to reduce friction in 3D printed PETG and ABS. Finally, the thermal conductivities of these polymer matrix composites were measured and compared to the pure polymer matrices. The thermal conductivity increased in both ABS and PETG composites containing graphite, MoS2, and WS2, irrespective of their processing routes. The use of 2DLM-based polymer composites remains an area of interest for a wide range of applications in the future, such as wearable electronics and sensors with low-cost additive manufacturing approaches.
Role of physisorption in atomic layer etching of silicon nitride
Authors: Sridhar Shyam , Ventzek Peter L. G. , Ranjan Alok
Published: June 2020

Atomic layer etching (ALE) techniques are growing in popularity due to their various benefits such as low damage, high selectivity, and precise and controlled etching. In ALE, surface modification is typically achieved by chemisorption of radicals generated in a plasma followed by ion assisted removal of the modified surface. A surface modification process assisted by a plasma may lead to unwanted side effects such as excessive polymerization or spontaneous etching. In this work, the authors demonstrate the feasibility of atomic layer etching of silicon nitride by physisorption of hydrofluorocarbon gas precursors [CHxF(4−x), x = 1−4] in the absence of a plasma. Self-limited SiN etching was observed for all hydrofluorocarbon gases, with the largest etch depth per cycle observed for CF4 and CHF3 adsorption (∼15 Å/cycle), and smallest etch depth per cycle observed using CH3F adsorption (∼6 Å/cycle). Etch precursor availability on the surface was manipulated by varying absolute pressure, partial pressure of the adsorbate, and adsorption time. The results of these experiments indicated that of physisorption of precursors is enough to modify the surface, leading to its removal in the subsequent plasma assisted desorption step.
Microscopic and nanoscopic protein imaging by SIMS and helium ion microscopy
Authors: Lim Heejin , Moon DaeWon
Published: June 2020

Single protein imaging and understanding their interactions are of paramount importance to understand the life phenomena. Recently reported multiplex protein SIMS imaging methodology using metal-oxide nanoparticle conjugated antibodies can be extended to a single protein imaging methodology using He ion microscopy (HIM). It is proposed here that single protein can be imaged in the microscale and the nanoscale by the complementary use of SIMS and HIM.
Label-free sensing of exosomal MCT1 and CD147 for tracking metabolic reprogramming and malignant progression in glioma
Authors: Thakur A. , Qiu G. , Xu C. , Han X. , Yang T. , NG S. P. , Chan K. W. Y. , Wu C. M. L. , Lee Y.
Published: June 2020

Noninvasive detection of exosomal MCT1/CD147 can monitor the progression of glioma, a fatal brain tumor, as a liquid biopsy.
Elemental constraints on the amount of recycled crust in the generation of mid-oceanic ridge basalts (MORBs)
Authors: Yang Shuying , Humayun Munir , Salters Vincent J. M.
Published: June 2020

The amount of recycled oceanic crust in the mantle is constrained from elemental observations of melts.
Astrocytes and microglia play orchestrated roles and respect phagocytic territories during neuronal corpse removal in vivo
Authors: Damisah Eyiyemisi C. , Hill Robert A. , Rai Anupama , Chen Fuyi , Rothlin Carla V. , Ghosh Sourav , Grutzendler Jaime
Published: June 2020

Astrocytes and microglia have specialized roles and display a coordinated response during corpse removal in the live brain.
In some professions, women have become well represented, yet gender bias persists—Perpetuated by those who think it is not happening
Authors: Begeny C. T. , Ryan M. K. , Moss-Racusin C. A. , Ravetz G.
Published: June 2020

If you think gender discrimination is no longer an issue in your profession, you may be perpetuating it.
Soft electromagnetic actuators
Authors: Mao Guoyong , Drack Michael , Karami-Mosammam Mahya , Wirthl Daniela , Stockinger Thomas , Schwödiauer Reinhard , Kaltenbrunner Martin
Published: June 2020

We present soft electromagnetic actuators from liquid metal and elastomer that are safe, stretchy, fast, durable, and programmable.
Single-molecule regulatory architectures captured by chromatin fiber sequencing
Authors: Stergachis Andrew B. , Debo Brian M. , Haugen Eric , Churchman L. Stirling , Stamatoyannopoulos John A.
Published: June 2020

Primary architecture of chromatin fibers

The organization of chromosomal DNA, including the positioning of nucleosomes and nucleosome-free regions harboring regulatory proteins along single chromatin fibers, is fundamental to genome function. However, most sequencing methods cannot elucidate this organization at the nucleotide level. Stergachis
et al.
present an approach, Fiber-seq, that maps chromatin fibers onto the underlying DNA template using methyltransferases to create a kind of stencil in fly and human cells. This method identifies chromatin structure at nearly a single-molecule level and can monitor the position of nucleosomes. Using Fiber-seq, the authors identify how regulatory DNA activation is related to nucleosome positioning and DNA variation.

Science
, this issue p.
1449
Meridional flow in the Sun’s convection zone is a single cell in each hemisphere
Authors: Gizon Laurent , Cameron Robert H. , Pourabdian Majid , Liang Zhi-Chao , Fournier Damien , Birch Aaron C. , Hanson Chris S.
Published: June 2020

The flow of plasma inside the Sun

The activity of the Sun, including the occurrence of sunspots, is driven by magnetic fields that originate from the motion of charged plasma beneath the surface. Helioseismology uses acoustic oscillations to probe the Sun's interior, analogous to seismology's use of earthquakes to investigate Earth's interior. Gizon
et al.
analyzed helioseismology data from 1996 to 2019, covering two 11-year solar cycles. They measured the latitudinal and radial flow of plasma as a function of depth within the Sun and how it varies with time. The results support magnetic flux-transport dynamo models, which can explain the distribution of sunspots over each solar cycle.

Science
, this issue p.
1469
Arctic-adapted dogs emerged at the Pleistocene–Holocene transition
Authors: Sinding Mikkel-Holger S. , Gopalakrishnan Shyam , Ramos-Madrigal Jazmín , de Manuel Marc , Pitulko Vladimir V. , Kuderna Lukas , Feuerborn Tatiana R. , Frantz Laurent A. F. , Vieira Filipe G. , Niemann Jonas , Samaniego Castruita Jose A. , Carøe Christian , Andersen-Ranberg Emilie U. , Jordan Peter D. , Pavlova Elena Y. , Nikolskiy Pavel A. , Kasparov Aleksei K. , Ivanova Varvara V. , Willerslev Eske , Skoglund Pontus , Fredholm Merete , Wennerberg Sanne Eline , Heide-Jørgensen Mads Peter , Dietz Rune , Sonne Christian , Meldgaard Morten , Dalén Love , Larson Greger , Petersen Bent , Sicheritz-Pontén Thomas , Bachmann Lutz , Wiig Øystein , Marques-Bonet Tomas , Hansen Anders J. , Gilbert M. Thomas P.
Published: June 2020

Sled dog arctic adaptations go far back

Dogs have been used for sledding in the Arctic as far back as ∼9500 years ago. However, the relationships among the earliest sled dogs, other dog populations, and wolves are unknown. Sinding
et al.
sequenced an ancient sled dog, 10 modern sled dogs, and an ancient wolf and analyzed their genetic relationships with other modern dogs. This analysis indicates that sled dogs represent an ancient lineage going back at least 9500 years and that wolves bred with the ancestors of sled dogs and precontact American dogs. However, gene flow between sled dogs and wolves likely stopped before ∼9500 years ago.

Science
, this issue p.
1495
Muscle and neuronal guidepost-like cells facilitate planarian visual system regeneration
Authors: Scimone M. Lucila , Atabay Kutay D. , Fincher Christopher T. , Bonneau Ashley R. , Li Dayan J. , Reddien Peter W.
Published: June 2020

Guiding regeneration

Many adult organisms can regenerate neural circuits after injury. However, it is not clear which guidance mechanisms operate to promote axon path finding in the adult. Scimone
et al.
addressed this question by investigating regeneration of the planarian visual system (see the Perspective by Roberts-Galbraith). Distinct muscle cell populations were found in close association with photoreceptor axons that, together with a neuron class, facilitated visual system assembly after diverse injuries or eye transplantations. These cells exhibited features similar to embryonic guidepost cells and were specified independently of eyes in precise locations by the action of adult positional information cues. Absence of these guidepost-like cells was associated with defective neuronal wiring in regeneration.

Science
, this issue p.
eaba3203
; see also p.
1428
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Activity, Tolerability, and Mechanism of Action of BX795 as an Antiviral against Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Genital Infection
Authors: Hopkins James , Yadavalli Tejabhiram , Suryawanshi Rahul , Qatanani Farreh , Volety Ipsita , Koganti Ram , Iqbal Aqsa , Shukla Deepak
Published: June 2020

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) causes recurrent lesions in the anogenital area that may be transmitted through sexual encounters. Nucleoside analogs, such as acyclovir (ACV), are currently prescribed clinically to curb this infection. However, in some cases, reduced efficacy has been observed due to the emergence of resistance against these drugs. In our previous study, we reported the discovery of a novel anti-HSV-1 small molecule, BX795, which was originally used as an inhibitor of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1).
Primary and Secondary Succession Mediate the Accumulation of Biogenic Amines during Industrial Semidry Chinese Rice Wine Fermentation
Authors: Luo Yi , Huang Yang , Xu Rui-xian , Qian Bin , Zhou Jing-wen , Xia Xiao-le
Published: June 2020

Understanding the shifting patterns of substance usage and microbial interactions is a fundamental objective within microbiology and ecology. Analyses of primary and secondary microbial succession allow for determinations of taxonomic diversity, community traits, and functional transformations over time or after a disturbance. The kinetics of BA generation and the patterns of resource consumption, functional metagenome prediction, and microbial interactions were profiled to elucidate the equilibrium mechanism of microbial systems. Secondary succession after a disturbance triggers a change in resource usage, which in turn affects primary succession and metabolism. In this study, the functional potential of exogenous microorganisms under disturbance synergized with secondary succession strategies, including rebalancing and dormancy, which ultimately reduced BA accumulation. Thus, this succession system could facilitate the settling of essential issues with respect to microbial traits that rely on resource usage and microbial interactions that occur in natural ecosystems.
NitroSpeed-Carba NP Test for Rapid Detection and Differentiation between Different Classes of Carbapenemases in
Enterobacterales
Authors: Nordmann Patrice , Sadek Mustafa , Demord Anthony , Poirel Laurent
Published: June 2020

A biochemical test (NitroSpeed-Carba NP test) was developed to identify carbapenemase production in
Enterobacterales
and to discriminate between the different types of clinically significant carbapenemases (Ambler classes A, B, and D). It is based on two main features, namely, the hydrolysis by all β-lactamases, including carbapenemases of the nitrocefin substrate, and the capacity of ertapenem to prevent this hydrolysis for all β-lactamases except carbapenemases. Specific carbapenemase inhibitors of class A (avibactam, vaborbactam), class B (dipicolinic acid), and class D (avibactam) were used to inhibit the nitrocefin hydrolysis and to allow the identification of the carbapenemase types with a turnaround time of ca.
Eyelid skin trichilemmoma and underlying local malignancy: is an aggressive treatment necessary?
Authors: Putri Christine Anggun , Mudhar Hardeep Singh , Meeney Adam , Tan Jennifer H Y
Published: June 2020

Objective

Trichilemmoma is a benign tumour derived from the outer root sheath of hair follicles. Trichilemmoma can be associated with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), either as a collision lesion or from malignant transformation. This study evaluates malignancy associated with eyelid trichilemmoma and principles of treatment.

Methods and analysis

Retrospective study involving biopsy-proven eyelid trichilemmoma cases over 14 years encountered at a tertiary referral centre. Presenting features, differential diagnosis, type and number of operations required and histopathological features including coexisting BCC were analysed.

Results

We identified 36 cases with an average age of 66 years. The clinical differential diagnoses were mainly BCC (44%), papilloma (36%) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (3%). Three patients (8%) had trichilemmoma with associated BCC. Of the 19 cases (53%) of trichilemmomas without BCC with equivocal surgical margins, seven patients (19%) opted for further excision while 12 patients (33%) opted for observation and were discharged. A patient re-presented two years later with invasive BCC. Overall, 11% of our biopsy-proven eyelid trichilemmoma cases were associated with BCC.

Conclusion

Patients should be informed that a proportion of incompletely excised eyelid trichilemmomas may conceal underlying BCC. Therefore, further surgery to achieve clear surgical margins should be offered. Patients who opt for observation should be offered 6-monthly follow-up for three to five years. Alternatively, they can be discharged with advice to report any recurrence of lumps, skin changes or loss of lashes at the site of previous lesion.