bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypoxic colorectal cancer cells promote metastasis of normoxic cancer cells depending on IL-8/p65 signaling pathway
Authors: Mi Yulong , Mu Lei , Huang Kaiyu , Hu Yibing , Yan Chang , Zhao Hui , Ma Chensen , Li Xiaolan , Tao Deding , Qin Jichao
Published: July 2020

Tumor heterogeneity is an important feature of malignant tumors, and cell subpopulations may positively interact to facilitate tumor progression. Studies have shown that hypoxic cancer cells possess enhanced metastatic capacity. However, it is still unclear whether hypoxic cancer cells may promote the metastasis of normoxic cells, which have greater access to the blood circulation. When cocultured with hypoxic CRC cells or treated with hypoxic CRC cell-derived CM, normoxic CRC cells possessed increased metastatic capacity. Furthermore, hypoxic CRC cell-derived CM was enriched in interleukin 8. Hypoxic CRC cell-derived CM and recombinant human IL-8 both enhanced the metastatic capacity of normoxic cells by increasing the phosphorylation of p65 and then by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Knockdown of IL-8 in hypoxic CRC cells or the use of an anti-IL-8 antibody attenuated the CM- or rhIL-8-induced prometastatic capacity of normoxic CRC cells. Inhibition or knockdown of p65 abrogated IL-8-induced prometastatic effects. Most importantly, hypoxia-treated xenograft tumors enhanced the metastasis of normoxic CRC cells. Hypoxic CRC cell-derived IL-8 promotes the metastatic capacity of normoxic cells, and novel therapies targeting the positive interactions between hypoxic and normoxic cells should be developed.
Correction: Knockdown of MSI2 inhibits metastasis by interacting with caveolin-1 and inhibiting its ubiquitylation in human NF1-MPNST cells
Authors: Yang Kang , Du Jianwei , Shi Dai , Ji Feng , Ji Yong , Pan Junbo , Lv Fei , Zhang Yao , Zhang Jie
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Explainable artificial intelligence model to predict acute critical illness from electronic health records
Authors: Lauritsen Simon Meyer , Kristensen Mads , Olsen Mathias Vassard , Larsen Morten Skaarup , Lauritsen Katrine Meyer , Jørgensen Marianne Johansson , Lange Jeppe , Thiesson Bo
Published: July 2020

Acute critical illness is often preceded by deterioration of routinely measured clinical parameters, e.g., blood pressure and heart rate. Early clinical prediction is typically based on manually calculated screening metrics that simply weigh these parameters, such as early warning scores (EWS). The predictive performance of EWSs yields a tradeoff between sensitivity and specificity that can lead to negative outcomes for the patient. Previous work on electronic health records (EHR) trained artificial intelligence (AI) systems offers promising results with high levels of predictive performance in relation to the early, real-time prediction of acute critical illness. However, without insight into the complex decisions by such system, clinical translation is hindered. Here, we present an explainable AI early warning score (xAI-EWS) system for early detection of acute critical illness. xAI-EWS potentiates clinical translation by accompanying a prediction with information on the EHR data explaining it.
Rapid Bayesian learning in the mammalian olfactory system
Authors: Hiratani Naoki , Latham Peter E.
Published: July 2020

Many experimental studies suggest that animals can rapidly learn to identify odors and predict the rewards associated with them. However, the underlying plasticity mechanism remains elusive. In particular, it is not clear how olfactory circuits achieve rapid, data efficient learning with local synaptic plasticity. Here, we formulate olfactory learning as a Bayesian optimization process, then map the learning rules into a computational model of the mammalian olfactory circuit. The model is capable of odor identification from a small number of observations, while reproducing cellular plasticity commonly observed during development. We extend the framework to reward-based learning, and show that the circuit is able to rapidly learn odor-reward association with a plausible neural architecture. These results deepen our theoretical understanding of unsupervised learning in the mammalian brain.
A protein-independent fluorescent RNA aptamer reporter system for plant genetic engineering
Authors: Bai Jiuyuan , Luo Yao , Wang Xin , Li Shi , Luo Mei , Yin Meng , Zuo Yuanli , Li Guolin , Yao Junyu , Yang Hua , Zhang Mingdi , Wei Wei , Wang Maolin , Wang Rui , Fan Chunhai , Zhao Yun
Published: July 2020

Reporter systems are routinely used in plant genetic engineering and functional genomics research. Most such plant reporter systems cause accumulation of foreign proteins. Here, we demonstrate a protein-independent reporter system, 3WJ-4 × Bro, based on a fluorescent RNA aptamer. Via transient expression assays in both Escherichia coli and Nicotiana benthamiana, we show that 3WJ-4 × Bro is suitable for transgene identification and as an mRNA reporter for expression pattern analysis. Following stable transformation in Arabidopsis thaliana, 3WJ-4 × Bro co-segregates and co-expresses with target transcripts and is stably inherited through multiple generations. Further, 3WJ-4 × Bro can be used to visualize virus-mediated RNA delivery in plants. This study demonstrates a protein-independent reporter system that can be used for transgene identification and in vivo dynamic analysis of mRNA.
VEGFR2 signaling drives meningeal vascular regeneration upon head injury
Authors: Koh Bong Ihn , Lee Hyuek Jong , Kwak Pil Ae , Yang Myung Jin , Kim Ju-Hee , Kim Hyung-Seok , Koh Gou Young , Kim Injune
Published: July 2020

Upon severe head injury (HI), blood vessels of the meninges and brain parenchyma are inevitably damaged. While limited vascular regeneration of the injured brain has been studied extensively, our understanding of meningeal vascular regeneration following head injury is quite limited. Here, we identify key pathways governing meningeal vascular regeneration following HI. Rapid and complete vascular regeneration in the meninges is predominantly driven by VEGFR2 signaling. Substantial increase of VEGFR2 is observed in both human patients and mouse models of HI, and endothelial cell-specific deletion of Vegfr2 in the latter inhibits meningeal vascular regeneration. We further identify the facilitating, stabilizing and arresting roles of Tie2, PDGFRβ and Dll4 signaling, respectively, in meningeal vascular regeneration. Prolonged inhibition of this angiogenic process following HI compromises immunological and stromal integrity of the injured meninges. These findings establish a molecular framework for meningeal vascular regeneration after HI, and may guide development of wound healing therapeutics.
Anthropogenic climate change has driven over 5 million km2 of drylands towards desertification
Authors: Burrell A. L. , Evans J. P. , De Kauwe M. G.
Published: July 2020

Drylands cover 41% of the earth’s land surface and include 45% of the world’s agricultural land. These regions are among the most vulnerable ecosystems to anthropogenic climate and land use change and are under threat of desertification. Understanding the roles of anthropogenic climate change, which includes the CO2 fertilization effect, and land use in driving desertification is essential for effective policy responses but remains poorly quantified with methodological differences resulting in large variations in attribution. Here, we perform the first observation-based attribution study of desertification that accounts for climate change, climate variability, CO2 fertilization as well as both the gradual and rapid ecosystem changes caused by land use. We found that, between 1982 and 2015, 6% of the world’s drylands underwent desertification driven by unsustainable land use practices compounded by anthropogenic climate change. Despite an average global greening, anthropogenic climate change has degraded 12.6% (5.43 million km2) of drylands, contributing to desertification and affecting 213 million people, 93% of who live in developing economies.
Extreme environmental conditions reduce coral reef fish biodiversity and productivity
Authors: Brandl Simon J. , Johansen Jacob L. , Casey Jordan M. , Tornabene Luke , Morais Renato A. , Burt John A.
Published: July 2020

Tropical ectotherms are hypothesized to be vulnerable to environmental changes, but cascading effects of organismal tolerances on the assembly and functioning of reef fish communities are largely unknown. Here, we examine differences in organismal traits, assemblage structure, and productivity of cryptobenthic reef fishes between the world’s hottest, most extreme coral reefs in the southern Arabian Gulf and the nearby, but more environmentally benign, Gulf of Oman. We show that assemblages in the Arabian Gulf are half as diverse and less than 25% as abundant as in the Gulf of Oman, despite comparable benthic composition and live coral cover. This pattern appears to be driven by energetic deficiencies caused by responses to environmental extremes and distinct prey resource availability rather than absolute thermal tolerances. As a consequence, production, transfer, and replenishment of biomass through cryptobenthic fish assemblages is greatly reduced on Earth’s hottest coral reefs. Extreme environmental conditions, as predicted for the end of the 21st century, could thus disrupt the community structure and productivity of a critical functional group, independent of live coral loss.
Occupational exposures and genetic susceptibility to occupational exposures are related to sickness absence in the Lifelines cohort study
Authors: Faruque Md. Omar , De Jong Kim , Vonk Judith M. , Kromhout Hans , Vermeulen Roel , Bültmann Ute , Boezen H. Marike
Published: July 2020

In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between occupational exposures and sickness absence (SA), the mediating role of respiratory symptoms, and whether genetic susceptibility to SA upon occupational exposures exists. Logistic regression was used to examine associations and structural equation modelling was used for mediation analyses. Genetic susceptibility was investigated by including interactions between occupational exposures and 11 candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Biological dust, mineral dust, and pesticides exposure were associated with a lower prevalence of any SA (OR (95% CI) = 0.72 (0.58–0.89), 0.88 (0.78–0.99), and 0.70 (0.55–0.89), respectively) while gases/fumes exposure was associated with a higher prevalence of long-term SA (1.46 (1.11–1.91)). Subjects exposed to solvents and metals had a higher prevalence of any (1.14 (1.03–1.26) and 1.68 (1.26–2.24)) and long-term SA (1.26 (1.08–1.46) and 1.75 (1.15–2.67)). Chronic cough and chronic phlegm mediated the association between high gases/fumes exposure and long-term SA. Two of 11 SNPs investigated had a positive interaction with exposure on SA and one SNP negatively interacted with exposure on SA. Exposure to metals and gases/fumes showed a clear dose–response relationship with a higher prevalence of long-term SA; contrary, exposure to pesticides and biological/mineral dust showed a protective effect on any SA. Respiratory symptoms mediated the association between occupational exposures and SA. Moreover, gene-by-exposure interactions exist.
Observation of gapped state in rare-earth monopnictide HoSb
Authors: Hosen M. Mofazzel , Dhakal Gyanendra , Wang Baokai , Poudel Narayan , Singh Bahadur , Dimitri Klauss , Kabir Firoza , Sims Christopher , Regmi Sabin , Neff William , Sarkar Anan Bari , Agarwal Amit , Murray Daniel , Weickert Franziska , Gofryk Krzysztof , Pavlosiuk Orest , Wiśniewski Piotr , Kaczorowski Dariusz , Bansil Arun , Neupane Madhab
Published: July 2020

The rare-earth monopnictide family is attracting an intense current interest driven by its unusual extreme magnetoresistance (XMR) property and the potential presence of topologically non-trivial surface states. The experimental observation of non-trivial surface states in this family of materials are not ubiquitous. Here, using high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, magnetotransport, and parallel first-principles modeling, we examine the nature of electronic states in HoSb. Although we find the presence of bulk band gaps at the $$\Gamma$$
Γ
and X-symmetry points of the Brillouin zone, we do not find these gaps to exhibit band inversion so that HoSb does not host a Dirac semimetal state. Our magnetotransport measurements indicate that HoSb can be characterized as a correlated nearly-complete electron-hole-compensated semimetal. Our analysis reveals that the nearly perfect electron-hole compensation could drive the appearance of non-saturating XMR effect in HoSb.
A non-pharmacological therapeutic approach in the gut triggers distal metabolic rewiring capable of ameliorating diet-induced dysfunctions encompassed by metabolic syndrome
Authors: Greco Carolina Magdalen , Garetto Stefano , Montellier Emilie , Liu Yu , Chen Siwei , Baldi Pierre , Sassone-Corsi Paolo , Lucci Jacopo
Published: July 2020

Metabolic syndrome has increased at a worrisome level. Lifestyle changes are not sufficient to prevent and improve the adverse effects of obesity, thus novel interventions are necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the use and metabolic outcomes of a non-pharmacological intervention in a high-fat diet (HFD) fed mouse model, capable of recapitulating key aspects of metabolic syndrome. We show that Policaptil Gel Retard has remarkable, beneficial effects on metabolic dysfunction caused by consumption of HFD. We describe the mechanism by which such effects are obtained, highlighting the fact that the amelioration of metabolic function observed upon Policaptil Gel Retard administration is profound and of systemic nature, despite being originated by sequestering, therefore non-pharmacological events elicited in the gut lumen.
Rapid counting and spectral sorting of live coral larvae using large-particle flow cytometry
Authors: Randall Carly J. , Speaks Justin E. , Lager Claire , Hagedorn Mary , Llewellyn Lyndon , Pulak Rock , Thompson Julia , Bay Line K. , Mead David , Heyward Andrew J. , Negri Andrew P.
Published: July 2020

Research with coral embryos and larvae often requires laborious manual counting and sorting of individual specimens, usually via microscopy. Because many coral species spawn only once per year during a narrow temporal window, sample processing is a time-limiting step for research on the early life-history stages of corals. Flow cytometry, an automated technique for measuring and sorting particles, cells, and cell-clusters, is a potential solution to this bottleneck. Yet most flow cytometers do not accommodate live organisms of the size of most coral embryos (> 250 µm), and sample processing is often destructive. Here we tested the ability of a large-particle flow cytometer with a gentle pneumatic sorting mechanism to process and spectrally sort live and preservedMontipora capitatacoral embryos and larvae. Average survival rates of mechanically-sorted larvae were over 90% and were comparable to those achieved by careful hand-sorting. Preserved eggs and embryos remained intact throughout the sorting process and were successfully sorted based on real-time size and fluorescence detection. In-line bright-field microscopy images were captured for each sample object as it passed through the flow-cell, enabling the identification of early-stage embryos (2-cell to morula stage). Samples were counted and sorted at an average rate of 4 s larva−1and as high as 0.2 s larva−1for high-density samples. Results presented here suggest that large-particle flow cytometry has the potential to significantly increase efficiency and accuracy of data collection and sample processing during time-limited coral spawning events, facilitating larger-scale and higher-replication studies with an expanded number of species.
Battery-free fully integrated microfluidic light source for portable lab-on-a-chip applications
Authors: Storti Filippo , Bonfadini Silvio , Criante Luigino
Published: July 2020

Integrating a light source inside a Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) platform has always been as challenging as much as an appealing task. Besides the manufacturing issues, one of the most limiting aspects is due to the need for an energy source to feed the light emission. A solution independent of external energy sources can be given by Chemiluminescence (CL): a well-known chemical phenomenon in which light emission is achieved because of a chemical reaction. Here we present the fabrication and the characterization of a chemiluminescent light source, fully integrated on a microfluidic platform by means of the direct writing technique known as Femtosecond Laser Micromachining. The key advantage is the possibility to insert within LOC devices light sources with complete placement freedom in 3D, wide flexibility of the emitting source geometry and no external feeding energy. The characterization is carried out by investigating the effect of confining a chemiluminescent rubrene-based reaction in small volumes and the inject pressures impact on the emission spectra. Moreover, exploiting microfluidics principles, it’s possible to move from the typical flash-type CL emission to a prolonged one (several hours). This allows to disengage bulky, external light sources, adding an extra step on the road to real device portability.
Nano-structured glaucoma drainage implant safely and significantly reduces intraocular pressure in rabbits via post-operative outflow modulation
Authors: Parikh Kunal S. , Josyula Aditya , Omiadze Revaz , Ahn Ju Young , Ha Youlim , Ensign Laura M. , Hanes Justin , Pitha Ian
Published: July 2020

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss predicted to affect more than 100 million people by 2040. Intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction prevents development of glaucoma and vision loss from glaucoma. Glaucoma surgeries reduce IOP by facilitating aqueous humor outflow through a vent fashioned from the wall of the eye (trabeculectomy) or a glaucoma drainage implant (GDI), but surgeries lose efficacy overtime, and the five-year failure rates for trabeculectomy and tube shunts are 25–45%. The majority of surgical failures occur due to fibrosis around the vent. Alternatively, surgical procedures can shunt aqueous humor too well, leading to hypotony. Electrospinning is an appealing manufacturing platform for GDIs, as it allows for incorporation of biocompatible polymers into nano- or micro-fibers that can be configured into devices of myriad combinations of dimensions and conformations. Here, small-lumen, nano-structured glaucoma shunts were manufactured with or without a degradable inner core designed to modulate aqueous humor outflow to provide immediate IOP reduction, prevent post-operative hypotony, and potentially offer significant, long-term IOP reduction. Nano-structured shunts were durable, leak-proof, and demonstrated biocompatibility and patency in rabbit eyes. Importantly, both designs prevented hypotony and significantly reduced IOP for 27 days in normotensive rabbits, demonstrating potential for clinical utility.
Proteomic analysis identifies plasma correlates of remote ischemic conditioning in the context of experimental traumatic brain injury
Authors: Saber Maha , Pathak Khyati V. , McGilvrey Marissa , Garcia-Mansfield Krystine , Harrison Jordan L. , Rowe Rachel K. , Lifshitz Jonathan , Pirrotte Patrick
Published: July 2020

Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC), transient restriction and recirculation of blood flow to a limb after traumatic brain injury (TBI), can modify levels of pathology-associated circulating protein. This study sought to identify TBI-induced molecular alterations in plasma and whether RIC would modulate protein and metabolite levels at 24 h after diffuse TBI. Adult male C57BL/6 mice received diffuse TBI by midline fluid percussion or were sham-injured. Mice were assigned to treatment groups 1 h after recovery of righting reflex: sham, TBI, sham RIC, TBI RIC. Nine plasma metabolites were significantly lower post-TBI (six amino acids, two acylcarnitines, one carnosine). RIC intervention returned metabolites to sham levels. Using proteomics analysis, twenty-four putative protein markers for TBI and RIC were identified. After application of Benjamini–Hochberg correction, actin, alpha 1, skeletal muscle (ACTA1) was found to be significantly increased in TBI compared to both sham groups and TBI RIC. Thus, identified metabolites and proteins provide potential biomarkers for TBI and therapeutic RIC in order to monitor disease progression and therapeutic efficacy.
Author Correction: Plasma neutrophil extracellular trap level is modified by disease severity and inhaled corticosteroids in chronic inflammatory lung diseases
Authors: Gál Zsófia , Gézsi András , pállinger Éva , Visnovitz Tamás , Nagy Adrienne , Kiss András , Sultész Monika , csoma Zsuzsanna , tamási Lilla , Gálffy Gabriella , Szalai Csaba
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Effect of donor age and 3D-cultivation on osteogenic differentiation capacity of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Payr Stephan , Schuseil Tim , Unger Marina , Seeliger Claudine , Tiefenboeck Thomas , Balmayor Elizabeth R. , van Griensven Martijn
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Scalable lateral heterojunction by chemical doping of 2D TMD thin films
Authors: Chamlagain Bhim , Withanage Sajeevi S. , Johnston Ammon C. , Khondaker Saiful I.
Published: July 2020

Scalable heterojunctions based on two-dimensional transitional metal dichalcogenides are of great importance for their applications in the next generation of electronic and optoelectronic devices. However, reliable techniques for the fabrication of such heterojunctions are still at its infancy. Here we demonstrate a simple technique for the scalable fabrication of lateral heterojunctions via selective chemical doping of TMD thin films. We demonstrate that the resistance of large area MoS2 and MoSe2 thin film, prepared via low pressure chalcogenation of molybdenum film, decreases by up to two orders of magnitude upon doping using benzyl viologen (BV) molecule. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements confirms n-doping of the films by BV molecules. Since thin films of MoS2 and MoSe2 are typically more resistive than their exfoliated and co-evaporation based CVD counterparts, the decrease in resistance by BV doping represents a significant step in the utilization of these samples in electronic devices. Using selective BV doping, we simultaneously fabricated many lateral heterojunctions in 1 cm2 MoS2 and 1 cm2 MoSe2 films. The electrical transport measurements performed across the heterojunctions exhibit current rectification behavior due to a band offset created between the doped and undoped regions of the material. Almost 84% of the fabricated devices showed rectification behavior demonstrating the scalability of this technique.
Polydopamine free radical scavengers
Authors: Hu Junfei , Yang Lei , Yang Peng , Jiang Shaohua , Liu Xianhu , Li Yiwen
Published: July 2020

This feature article summarizes the recent progress, challenges and future directions of free radical scavengers based on polydopamine, including the integrated mechanism, current regulating strategies, and kinds of biomedical applications.
GC × GC-MS analysis and hypolipidemic effects of polyphenol extracts from Shanxi-aged vinegar in rats under a high fat diet
Authors: Du Peng , Zhou Junhan , Zhang Li , Zhang Jiaojiao , Li Nan , Zhao Chaoya , Tu Linna , Zheng Yu , Xia Ting , Luo Jianmei , Song Jia , Wang Min
Published: July 2020

Polyphenols extracted from Shanxi-aged vinegar (SAVEP) can alleviate oxidative stress and inflammatory stress caused by high-fat diets, improving intestinal microbial disorders. SAVEP may be a novel treatment of the metabolic syndrome.
Photolithography in the vacuum ultraviolet (172 nm) with sub-400 nm resolution: photoablative patterning of nanostructures and optical components in bulk polymers and thin films on semiconductors
Authors: Mironov Andrey E. , Kim Jinhong , Huang Yin , Steinforth Austin W. , Sievers Dane J. , Eden J. Gary
Published: July 2020

Precision photoablation of bulk polymers or films with incoherent 172 nm radiation from flat, microplasma array-powered lamps provides the foundation for a photolithographic process in which an acrylic or other polymer serves as a dry photoresist.
Emissive tetraphenylethylene (TPE) derivatives in a dissolved state tightly fastened by a short oligo(ethylene glycol) chain
Authors: Tanaka Yuma , Machida Takashi , Noumi Toshiaki , Sada Kazuki , Kokado Kenta
Published: July 2020

The requirements for strong emission from a typical AIEgen in solution were quantitatively examined both by photochemical experiments and theoretical computations.
Thermodynamics and kinetics of protonated merocyanine photoacids in water
Authors: Berton Cesare , Busiello Daniel Maria , Zamuner Stefano , Solari Euro , Scopelliti Rosario , Fadaei-Tirani Farzaneh , Severin Kay , Pezzato Cristian
Published: July 2020

We rationalize the behaviour of protonated merocyanines in water through cross-validation of 1H NMR, UV-Vis and pH measurements, and show their capability to act as reversible photoacids along light/dark cycles can be described by a four-state model.
Beginner’s guide to producing super-resolved images on a widefield fluorescence microscope
Authors: Vojnovic Ilijana , Endesfelder Ulrike
Published: July 2020

The development of super-resolution microscopy techniques, which are able to achieve resolutions in the nanometre range and as such allow the visualization of subcellular structures and dynamics, has considerably expanded the possibilities of fluorescence microscopy in the life sciences. While a majority of these techniques require highly specialized hardware, single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) can be implemented on conventional widefield fluorescence microscopes. Here, we describe what technical upgrades are necessary and discuss some of the difficulties that can be encountered during sample preparation and imaging.
A Study on the Potential of Electricity Generation from Cassava Rhizome in Eastern Region Area of Thailand
Authors: Saengsaior Mananya , Arjharn Weerachai , Liplab Pansa , Hinsui Thipsupin
Published: July 2020

In this study, the objective was to investigate the quality and suitability of processing, improving the quality of waste biomass from cassava growing in east region area of Thailand. There is a method for studying quantitative data from the land use database together with the geographic information system. And the physical quality and chemical properties of cassava rhizomes have been studied from the analysis of cassava rhizome samples in the laboratory. The results of the study found that east region area of Thailand is the biggest area for cassava cultivation in Thailand. Crop residual ratio (CRR) of cassava rhizome was 0.112 with the total remaining amount of 636,003.35 tons/year (~53.40% wb moisture content and 8.19 MJ/kg heating value). It was estimated that the total amount of cassava rhizome ready to use as biomass with chip/pellet grade at moisture content of ~10.17% wb. and heating value of ~12.50 MJ/Kg is 89,040 tons/year, having equivalent energy of 1,113.01 GJ or 26.58 ktoe. This could be used to produce electricity of 61.8 GWh or used to supply power plants with total capacity of 8.8 MW.
Performance of HSDI diesel-engine generator using the blend of B5, n-butanol and ethanol as increased to 20%
Authors: Sutheerasak Ekkachai , Pirompugd Worachest , Ruengphrathuengsuka Wirogana
Published: July 2020

B5, diesel mixed with 5% biodiesel, is currently being developed to replace diesel, but there was lower engine performance. To improve the B5 properties, the addition of oxygenated additive is a better method. This research aims to study the performance of a high-speed direct injection (HSDI) diesel-engine generator at speed 3,000 rpm and different loads by using B5 blended to n-butanol and ethanol as increased to 20%. Results show that the use of B5-butanol-ethanol blends decreased engine performance as increasing ethanol; however, the release of nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and black smoke was remarkably reduced as compared with B5. However, the use of B5 blended to 5% n-butanol, and 5% ethanol increased the electrical power to 0.33%, while electrical efficiency was added to 1.13%, and SFC was similar to B5. Therefore, this ratio can be applied with the diesel engines in the future.
Steady-state Operation Area of VSC-HVDC Converter Station Connecting Renewable Energy Cluster by Isolated Network
Authors: Xian Wenyuan , Ding Ran , Qiao Ying , Lu Zongxiang , Li Shangqiang , Lin Hong
Published: July 2020

When the large-scale renewable power island is connected to VSC-HVDC transmission system, we should figure out the steady-state operation area of VSC-HVDC converter station. Based on the equivalent model of renewable energy island, the constraints of VSC-HVDC converter station are analyzed, and a fast method for calculating steady-state operation area of converter station is presented in this paper. The influence of equivalent line impedance of renewable energy island, transformer ratio of converter station and voltage setting value of grid-connected point on steady-state operation area of converter station is analyzed. And the three-dimensional view of the steady-state operation area of the converter station under different grid-connected voltage is depicted.
Fault Investigation and Operation Strategy of Dry Type Air-core Reactor in Severe Cold Environment
Authors: Wang Lin , Liang Jianquan , Hao Wenguang , Wang Hongyu
Published: July 2020

The influence of extreme climate such as severe cold temperature on power transmission system can not be ignored, the low temperature could cause complicated mechanical and dielectric deterioration to electrical materials and devices. In China’s recent operation experience of reactors, it is found the burning fault rate of dry type air-core reactors in cold northeast region was obviously higher than that of other regions, which had inflicted negative impact on substation equipment and personnel safety. To tackle with the problems and prevent potential faults, typical fault characteristics and mechanism at low temperature, the specific influence of low temperature on materials and reactor performance, as well as corresponding operation strategies would be studied and proposed in this paper.
On the maximization problem for solutions of reaction–diffusion equations with respect to their initial data
Authors: Nadin Grégoire , Marrero Ana Isis Toledo
Published: July 2020

We consider in this paper the maximization problem for the quantity ∫ Ωu(t, x)dx with respect to u0 =: u(0, ⋅), where u is the solution of a given reaction diffusion equation. This problem is motivated by biological conservation questions. We show the existence of a maximizer and derive optimality conditions through an adjoint problem. We have to face regularity issues since non-smooth initial data could give a better result than smooth ones. We then derive an algorithm enabling to approximate the maximizer and discuss some open problems.
A Novel Endosurgical Prosthesis to Treat Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Complex Anatomy or Emergency Settings
Authors: Saitto Guglielmo , Scafuri Antonio , Kuci Saimir , Ibrahimi Alfred , Zeitani Jacob
Published: July 2020

Background Despite improvements in operative techniques, open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair is complex and characterized by high mortality and morbidity rate. Less invasive techniques have been developed since 2005 for the treatment of TAAA. Unfortunately, many of these devices require custom fabrication, resulting in delay of many weeks until treatment can be delivered but crucial in critical emergency cases. We present a novel hybrid endovascular and surgical prosthesis, which was tested on five pigs, with the aim of reducing the barrier issues of endovascular therapy in such particular cases.

Methods The principal characteristic of the proposed hybrid endovascular prosthesis is to combine a proximal and distal stented zones and, in between, a classical surgical blood tied Dacron prosthesis. The device was tested in five pigs where feasibility of implantation and acute postoperative outcomes were evaluated, including bleeding, bowel ischemia, renal function, and peripheral blood perfusion.

Results In all cases, following laparotomy, the endoprosthesis was successfully implanted under fluoroscopy and the surgical prosthesis zone could be easily detected by the radio-opaque markers. No major bleeding or cardiac events occurred throughout preparation and implantation. One hour after prosthesis implantation and surgical anastomoses of all vessels were completed, normal urine output was registered, and no acidosis was detected.

Conclusions This novel graft has shown ease of endoprosthesis and visceral vessels implantation without the need of thoracotomy or extracorporeal circulation and may be useful in an emergency setting or high risk and complex anatomy TAAA unsuitable for traditional endovascular aneurysm repair, or to avoid an excess waiting time for a “custom made” prosthesis. The great adaptability of this “hybrid” prosthesis in complex anatomy for the majority of TAAA could be important in high-risk patients and in some difficult situations, such as a high risk of imminent rupture.
Time-Enhancement Curve of Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography Predicts Aneurysm Enlargement with Type-II Endoleak after Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Nishihara Yunosuke , Mitsui Kota , Azama Shinya , Okamoto Daisuke , Sato Manabu , Naito Kozo , Aibe Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

Objective We investigated the hemodynamic features of Type-II endoleaks after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) using four-dimensional (4D) computed tomography (CT) to identify patients with aneurysm enlargement.

Methods During a 13-month period (January 2017–January 2018) at our institution, we performed 4D-CT examinations in 13 patients after EVAR because of suspected Type-II endoleaks. Three patients were excluded from the study because of other endoleaks or absence of detectable endoleaks. The ramaining 10 patients were divided into two groups: enlargement group (n = 4), in which the aneurysm volume increased, and stable group (n = 6), in which the aneurysm remained stable or shrank. A CT scanner and three-dimensional workstation were used. All images were obtained using a consistent protocol (22 phase scans using the test bolus tracking method). We analyzed the hemodynamics of the endoleak cavity (EC) relative to those of the aorta and evaluated the time-enhancement curves (TECs) using measurement protocols. The strengths of correlations between these factors in the two groups were analyzed statistically.

Results TECs in the enlargement group showed a more gradual curve, and the upslope, the gradient of TEC in the ascending phase and the upslope index were significantly more gradual than those in the stable group (p = 0.0247, 0.0243). The EC washout and the EC washout index were also more gradual than in the stable group's (p = 0.019, 0.019). The enhancement duration was longer in the former than in the latter (80%, p = 0.0195; 70%, p = 0.0159; 60%, p = 0.0159). The CT number in the equilibrium phase was larger in the enlargement group than in the stable group (p = 0.019).

Conclusion The 4D-CT is useful for predicting aneurysm enlargement with Type-II endoleaks after EVAR.
Lymphatic Anatomy and Physiology
Authors: Goswami Abhishek K. , Khaja Minhaj S. , Downing Trevor , Kokabi Nima , Saad Wael E. , Majdalany Bill S.
Published: July 2020

Lymphatics have long been overshadowed by the remainder of the circulatory system. Historically, lymphatics were difficult to study because of their small and indistinct vessels, colorless fluid contents, and limited effective interventions. However, the past several decades have brought increased funding, advanced imaging technologies, and novel interventional techniques to the field. Understanding the history of lymphatic anatomy and physiology is vital to further realize the role lymphatics play in most major disease pathologies and innovate interventional solutions for them.
A Diffuse Leptomeningeal Glioneural Tumor Case Producing Hydrocephalus and Polyradiculopathy
Authors: Picarelli Helder , Nepomuceno Thales Bhering , Ribeiro Renan Ribeiro , Yamaki Vitor Nagai , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha
Published: July 2020

The present report describes the case of a male 17-year-old patient who progressively developed a hydrocephalus and polyradiculopathy due to involvement of central nervous system (CNS) by a diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor (DLGNT). The tumor had partial remission in response to the treatment with radiotherapy plus procarbazine, lomustine, and vincristine (PCV) chemotherapy, and the patient had improvement in function and pain levels. The current knowledge about DLGNT, including its clinical manifestations, imaging findings, histological characteristics, and treatment are revised and discussed in the present paper.
Adult Nasoethmoidal Encephalocele Corrected by Supraorbitary Approach: Case Report and Review
Authors: Teixeira Francisco Fernando Dacier , Aprígio Raysa Moreira , de Moraes Dionei Freitas , Góes Mário José , Chaddad-Neto Feres , Caramanti Ricardo Lourenço
Published: July 2020

Encephalocele is a protrusion of the central nervous system elements through a defect in the dura mater and in the cranium. The prevalence of encephalocele ranges from 0.08 to 0.5 per 1,000 births. The posterior encephaloceles are more common in North America and Europe, while frontal defect is frequently found in Asia. The present paper describes a 26-year-old male patient presenting with cerebrospinal fluid leak and meningitis symptoms. He was diagnosed with congenital nasoethmoidal encephalocele and treated surgically using a supraorbital approach without complications.
The Frontal Sinus and Frontal Recess: Anatomical, Radiological and Surgical Concepts
Authors: Dassi Camila S. , Demarco Flávia R. , Mangussi-Gomes João , Weber Raimar , Balsalobre Leonardo , Stamm Aldo C.
Published: July 2020

Introduction The frontal sinus (FS) is the most complex of the paranasal sinuses due to its location, anatomical variations and multiple clinical presentations. The surgical management of the FS and of the frontal recess (FR) is technically challenging, and a complete understanding of its anatomy, radiology, main diseases and surgical techniques is crucial to achieve therapeutic success.

Objectives To review the FS and FR anatomy, radiology, and surgical techniques.

Data Synthesis The FS features a variety of anatomical, volumetric and dimensional characteristics. From the endoscopic point of view, the FR is the point of greatest narrowing and, to have access to this region, one must know the anatomical limits and the ethmoid cells that are located around the FR and very often block the sinus drainage. Benign diseases such as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), mucocele and osteomas are the main pathologies found in the FS; however, there is a wide variety of malignant tumors that can also affect this region and represent a major technical challenge to the surgeon. With the advances in the endoscopic technique, the vast majority of diseases that affect the FS can be treated according to Wolfgang Draf, who systemized the approaches into four types (I, IIa, IIb, III).

Conclusion Both benign and malignant diseases that affect the FS and FR can be successfully managed if one has a thorough understanding of the FS and FR anatomy, an individualized approach of the best surgical technique in each case, and the appropriate tools to operate in this region.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Planetary Health. A Critical Review of Epidemiology, Prevention, Clinical Characteristics and Treatments for Oral, Head and Neck Health Professionals. Do We Have a Roadmap?
Authors: Jotz Geraldo Pereira , Stein Airton , Sirena Sérgio , Barros Enrique , Baldisserotto Julio , Figueiredo José Antônio Poli de , Lavinsky Joel , Steier Liviu , Dora Carlos
Published: July 2020

Introduction Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is potentially the greatest global public health crisis of this century. This disease emerged as an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan, the capital city of the Hubei province in China, in December 2019. Otolaryngologists, head and neck surgeons and dentists are at an increased risk of occupational disease.

Objective The present review summarizes currently published evidence of Covid-19 epidemiology, clinical characteristics, treatment and prevention. No proven effective treatments for this disease currently exist.

Data Synthesis COVID-19 started from a zoonotic transmission event associated with a large seafood market that also traded in live wild animals, and it soon became clear that efficient person-to-person transmission was also occurring. Symptoms are varied, and not all patients develop all of them.

Conclusion Social distancing seems to have been successful in several places in the world. However, this recommendation alone is not enough to contain the disease, and it is not a long-term solution. Large-scale testing by health professionals of representative samples of the population may give an estimate of the progression of the disease. Different treatments are under test and bring hope of a cure to the population. However, no current treatments (April 27, 2020) have been proven to be the key to success in the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Planetary health is a useful concept to understand the current drivers of this pandemic and to draw a roadmap for science and healthcare that may guide actions to fight economic depression and ensure a healthy recovery.
Development of SSR markers and association studies of markers with phenology and yield-related traits in grass pea (Lathyrus sativus)
Authors: Soren Khela Ram , Konda Aravind Kumar , Gangwar Priyanka , Tiwari Vijay A. , Shanmugavadivel P. S. , Parihar Ashok Kumar , Dixit Girish Prasad , Singh Narendra Pratap
Published: July 2020

Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) is an important food crop cultivated in dryland agricultural ecosystem. It is an important source of dietary protein to millions of people living in low-income countries in South-east Asia and Africa. The present study emphasises the development of genomic resources and their application in marker–trait association for plant phenology and yield-related traits in lathyrus. In silico mining of nucleotide sequences identified 203 simple sequence repeat (SSR) motifs, of which trimer repeats (62%) were most abundant followed by tetramer (19%), hexamer (10%), pentamer (6%) and dimer (3%) nucleotide repeats. Of 150 SSR markers screened, 60 markers were amplified 75 alleles from 50 germplasm lines with 2–3 alleles per locus and the polymorphic information content of 0.45 was observed. We report 6 significant marker–trait associations using the developed SSR markers for plant phenology and yield-related traits following mixed linear model (Q+K) analysis. Gene ontology search of trait linked markers revealed marker regions encoding genes related to homeobox-leucine zipper protein ATHB-6-like, rubredoxin family protein, and cationic peroxidise. Understanding the association of novel alleles in trait expression will play a significant role in future lathyrus crop improvement programmes.
Interdependence and the cost of uncoordinated responses to COVID-19
Authors: Holtz David , Zhao Michael , Benzell Seth G. , Cao Cathy Y. , Rahimian Mohammad Amin , Yang Jeremy , Allen Jennifer , Collis Avinash , Moehring Alex , Sowrirajan Tara , Ghosh Dipayan , Zhang Yunhao , Dhillon Paramveer S. , Nicolaides Christos , Eckles Dean , Aral Sinan
Published: July 2020

Significance

As local governments relax shelter-in-place orders worldwide, policy makers lack evidence on how policies in one region affect mobility and social distancing in other regions and the consequences of uncoordinated regional policies adopted in the presence of such spillovers. Our analysis suggests the contact patterns of people in one region are significantly influenced by the policies and behaviors of people in other, sometimes distant, regions. When just one-third of a state’s social and geographic peer states adopt shelter-in-place policies, it creates a reduction in mobility equal to the state’s own policy decisions, highlighting the need for national coordination. The paper gives governors a roadmap for coordination in the absence of national leadership and applies globally to other regions lacking coordination.
Narrative comprehension in Lebanese Arabic-French bilingual
children
Authors: Fiani Rachel , Henry Guillemette , Prévost Philippe
Published: July 2020

This chapter examines the development of comprehension of
macrostructure in narratives by 48 simultaneous bilingual Lebanese
Arabic-French children aged 4–9. Fictional storytelling and narrative
comprehension tasks were administered in both languages, using the
Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives (Gagarina et al., 2012). The comprehension scores
were compared across the two languages and analyzed in relation to age,
macrostructure production scores, language dominance, expressive vocabulary,
and a composite measure of exposure to stories. The results showed
significant age effects on comprehension and no differences between
languages, irrespectively of language dominance. Significant correlations
were found between comprehension and production scores, between
comprehension scores in both languages and exposure to stories in French,
and between comprehension and expressive vocabulary. The results suggest
that story comprehension is invariant across languages, meaning that a
bilingual child carries over narrative abilities across languages even when
one language is less dominant than the other. Nonetheless, the results also
show that exposure to storytelling affects performance on macrostructure
comprehension and that assessment of macrostructure comprehension requiring
verbal answers necessitates minimal language proficiency.