bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
River profile evolution by plucking in lithologically heterogeneous landscapes: Uniform uplift vs. tilting
Authors: Gabet Emmanuel J.
Published: February 2020

Recent studies provide a theoretical framework for understanding the incision of bedrock rivers by plucking. These studies motivated the development of a numerical model that simulates plucking to explore the evolution of channel profiles in lithologically diverse terrain. In the main governing equation, the incision rate is calculated as a function of the difference between the boundary shear stress and a threshold shear stress needed to entrain blocks from the bed. Because an earlier study suggested that plucking is the primary incisional process in the northern Sierra Nevada (CA), the model was calibrated to approximate the conditions in the region. The profiles of the simulated rivers are stair‐stepped, with sharp breaks‐in‐slope at lithological boundaries. This characteristic is common to rivers draining the northern Sierra Nevada, suggesting that the size of blocks available for plucking, as mediated by the fracture density, may be the primary control on their gradients. Moreover, the numerical experiments highlight the role of threshold shear stresses in the post‐orogenic persistence of steep reaches and relict terrain. Finally, comparisons of profiles evolved under tilting or uniform uplift scenarios provide insights into how these different uplift modes affect profile evolution. For example, whereas uniform uplift generates a single migrating knickpoint at the range front, multiple migrating knickpoints can form simultaneously along a river in a tilting landscape. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance‐based engineering approach to accurately determine flame propagation characteristics over exterior video cladding wall
Authors: Chen Xiaolei , Wang Frank
Published: February 2020

A large exterior LED video cladding wall consists of pixel modules made of polymeric materials and may pose significant fire hazards to its built environment due to high combustibility. In order to accurately evaluate the fire hazards brought by this technology, it is essential to understand the realistic flame propagation characteristics, such as the vertical and lateral flame propagation rates over the exterior surface of video cladding walls. In this study, a performance‐based engineering approach using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling tool as well as small‐scale standard test data was adopted to analyze and determine the flame propagation characteristics over an exterior video cladding wall in a real‐world fire scenario. A vertical flame propagation pattern found through simulations is presented in the paper. It is also discovered that when compared with critical radiative heat flux, the ignition temperature plays a more dominant role on the flame propagation over the surface of video cladding wall. Furthermore, numerical accuracy of the simulations is discussed in this paper.
Association of serum ferritin with metabolic syndrome in eight cities in China
Authors: Wang Meichen , Zhao Ai , Szeto Ignatius Man‐Yau , Wu Wei , Ren Zhongxia , Li Ting , Feng Haotian , Wang Peiyu , Wang Yan , Zhang Yumei
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the cross‐sectional association of serum ferritin (SF) and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components among adults in eight cities in China.

Methods

Subjects were recruited using a combination of systematic cluster random sampling and purposive sampling in eight cities in China. The sociodemographic characteristics, data of lifestyle factors, self‐reported disease history, and 24‐hr dietary intake were obtained using a validated questionnaire. Anthropometry was performed, and fasting blood was collected to test the SF, fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), triglycerides (TG), and cholesterols. Logistic and linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate the associations, adjusting for age, city level, smoking, drinking, weekly moderate‐to‐vigorous activity, dietary factors, hs‐CRP, and BMI.

Results

Serum ferritin level is positively correlated with total cholesterol, TG, FBG, HOMA‐IR, and hs‐CRP after adjusting for age and BMI. The odds ratio (OR) for MetS in the highest quartile of SF was 2.23 (1.32, 3.77) after adjusting for men, compared with the lowest quartile. An elevated ferritin concentration was significantly related to hypertriglyceridemia (p < .001) and elevated glucose (p = .013) among men, but not among women. Furthermore, compared with Q1, the OR for insulin resistance in the ferritin Q4 group was 3.08 (1.50, 6.32) among men and 1.96 (1.19, 3.24) among women.

Conclusion

A positive association between elevated SF and MetS and its components including hypertriglyceridemia and elevated glucose was found in multivariate analyses among men, and SF levels are independently associated with IR.
Detection of milk powder in liquid whole milk using hydrolyzed peptide and intact protein mass spectral fingerprints coupled with data fusion technologies
Authors: Du Lijuan , Lu Weiying , Zhang Yaqiong , Gao Boyan , Yu Liangli
Published: February 2020

Detection of the presence of milk powder in liquid whole milk is challenging due to their similar chemical components. In this study, a sensitive and robust approach has been developed and tested for potential utilization in discriminating adulterated milk from liquid whole milk by analyzing the intact protein and hydrolyzed peptide using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (UPLC‐QTOF‐MS) fingerprints combined with data fusion. Two different datasets from intact protein and peptide fingerprints were fused to improve the discriminating ability of principle component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, the midlevel data fusion coupled with PCA could completely distinguish liquid whole milk from the milk. The limit of detection of milk powder in liquid whole milk was 0.5% (based on the total protein equivalence). These results suggested that fused data from intact protein and peptide fingerprints created greater synergic effect in detecting milk quality, and the combination of data fusion and PCA analysis could be used for the detection of adulterated milk.
Volatility as an asset class: Holding VIX in a portfolio
Authors: Doran James S.
Published: February 2020

Hedging market downturns without sacrificing upside has long been sought by investors. If VIX was directly investable, adding it as a hedge to the S&P 500 would result in significantly improved performance over the equity only portfolio. However, tradable VIX products do not provide the hedge or returns investors seek over long‐term horizons. Alternatively, deconstructing VIX to find the key S&P 500 options which drive VIX movements leads to a synthetic VIX portfolio that provides a more effective hedge. Using these options captures correlations and returns similar to VIX, and combined with the S&P 500, outperforms the buy‐and‐hold index portfolio.
The determinants of price discovery on bitcoin markets
Authors: Entrop Oliver , Frijns Bart , Seruset Marco
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates whether market quality, uncertainty, investor sentiment and attention, and macroeconomic news affect bitcoin price discovery in spot and futures markets. Over the period December 2017–March 2019, we find significant time variation in the contribution to price discovery of the two markets. Increases in price discovery are mainly driven by relative trading costs and volume, and uncertainty to a lesser extent. Additionally, medium‐sized trades contain most information in terms of price discovery. Finally, higher news‐based bitcoin sentiment increases the informational role of the futures market, while attention and macroeconomic news have no impact on price discovery.
Genome‐wide characterization of 5‐hydoxymethylcytosine in melanoma reveals major differences with nevus
Authors: Salgado Catarina , Oosting Jan , Janssen Bart , Kumar Rajiv , Gruis Nelleke , van Doorn Remco
Published: February 2020

Melanoma demonstrates altered patterns of DNA methylation that are associated with genetic instability and transcriptional repression of numerous genes. Active DNA demethylation is mediated by TET enzymes that catalyze conversion of 5‐methylcytosine (mC) to 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (hmC). Loss of hmC occurs in melanoma and correlates with disease progression. Here we analyzed the genomic distribution of hmC along with mC in nevus and melanoma using oxidative bisulfite chemistry combined with high‐density arrays. HmC was enriched relative to mC at enhancers, 5′UTR regions and CpG shores in nevus and melanoma samples, pointing to specific TET enzyme activity. The proportion of interrogated CpG sites with high hmC levels was lower in melanoma (0.54%) than in nevus (2.0%). Depletion of hmC in melanoma was evident across all chromosomes and intragenic regions, being more pronounced in metastatic than in non‐metastatic tumors. The patterns of hmC distribution in melanoma samples differed significantly from those in nevus samples, exceeding differences in mC patterns. We identified specific CpG sites and regions with significantly lower hmC levels in melanoma than in nevus that might serve as diagnostic markers. Differentially hydroxymethylated regions localized to cancer‐related genes, including the PTEN gene promoter, suggesting that deregulated DNA hydroxymethylation may contribute to melanoma pathogenesis.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Demonstrates Heterogeneous Growth Patterns in a Multicenter Cohort of Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Rich Nicole E. , John Binu V. , Parikh Neehar D. , Rowe Ian , Mehta Neil , Khatri Gaurav , Thomas Smitha M. , Anis Munazza , Mendiratta‐Lala Mishal , Hernandez Christopher , Odewole Mobolaji , Sundaram Latha T. , Konjeti Venkata R. , Shetty Shishir , Shah Tahir , Zhu Hao , Yopp Adam C. , Hoshida Yujin , Yao Francis Y. , Marrero Jorge A. , Singal Amit G.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

There are limited data on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth patterns, particularly in Western cohorts, despite implications for surveillance, prognosis, and treatment. Our study’s aim was to quantify tumor doubling time (TDT) and identify correlates associated with indolent and rapid growth.

Approach and Results

We performed a retrospective multicenter cohort study of patients with cirrhosis diagnosed with HCC from 2008 to 2017 at six US and European health systems with two or more contrast‐enhanced imaging studies performed ≥ 30 days apart prior to HCC treatment. Radiologists independently measured tumors in three dimensions to calculate TDT and specific growth rate (SGR). We used multivariable ordinal logistic regression to identify factors associated with indolent (TDT > 365 days) and rapid (TDT < 90 days) tumor growth. In the primary cohort (n = 242 patients from four centers), median TDT was 229 days (interquartile range [IQR], 89‐627) and median SGR was 0.3% per day (IQR, 0.1%‐0.8%). Over one‐third (38%) of HCCs had indolent growth, 36.8% intermediate growth, and 25.2% rapid growth. In multivariable analysis, indolent growth was associated with larger tumor diameter (odds ratio [OR], 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–1.30) and alpha‐fetoprotein < 20 ng/mL (OR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.12‐3.21). Indolent growth was more common in nonviral than viral cirrhosis (50.9% versus 32.1%), particularly in patients with T1 HCC (OR, 3.41; 95% CI, 1.08‐10.80). Median TDT (169 days; IQR 74‐408 days) and SGR (0.4% per day) were similar in an independent cohort (n = 176 patients from two centers).

Conclusions

In a large Western cohort of patients with HCC, we found heterogeneous tumor growth patterns, with one‐fourth exhibiting rapid growth and over one‐third having indolent growth. Better understanding different tumor growth patterns may facilitate a precision approach to prognostication and treatment.
Diagnosis efficacy of CEUS for hepatic inflammatory lesions
Authors: Guo Yuanyuan , Qin Xiachuan , Chen Shaoxian , Liu Xuebin , Gu Peng
Published: February 2020

Purpose

In this study, the efficacy of US/CEUS and clinicopathologic parameters in differential diagnosis of hepatic inflammatory lesions were evaluated.

Methods

This was a retrospective study in which CEUS imaging was performed on 182 patients. Among these patients, 44 patients had hepatic inflammatory lesions and 138 patients had malignant lesions. The ultrasound (US), CEUS, and clinicopathologic parameters with respect to differential diagnosis of hepatic inflammatory lesions were analyzed.

Results

Irregular lesion shape and unclear margin were commonly seen in hepatic inflammatory lesions by US/CEUS examination. Hypoenhancement in arterial phase (AP) and portal venous phase (PVP), and isoenhancement in delayed phase (DP) were more commonly found in inflammatory lesions rather than malignant lesions [9% (4/44), 68% (30/44), and 16% (7/44) vs 2% (3/138), 11% (15/138), 1% (1/138), respectively; P < .05]. The enhancement coverage was also a significant indicator for the differentiation of inflammatory lesions and malignant lesions (P < .05). History of hepatitis or cirrhosis, and higher serum alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) level were indicators for malignant lesions, while liver parasites and higher body temperature were indicators for inflammatory lesions. When the US/CEUS findings were combined with clinicopathologic parameters, the diagnostic accuracy of inflammatory lesions could reach 93.3%, with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 63.64%, 96.03%, 84.85%, and 88.32%, respectively.

Conclusion

The US/CEUS findings combined with clinical characteristics can accurately differentiate hepatic inflammatory lesions and malignant lesions. The results of study will improve the diagnostic confidence for hepatic inflammatory lesions.
Follistatin‐like 1: A dual regulator that promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation and fibrosis
Authors: Hu Siyuan , Liu Hua , Hu Zhixi , Li Lin , Yang Yi
Published: February 2020

Follistatin‐like 1 (FSTL1) is a key factor in maintaining cardiac growth and development. It can be activated by exercise training and has a dual role in promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation and fibrosis, but its underlying mechanism is not fully understood. To elucidate the dual mechanism and target of FSTL1 regulating of cardiomyocyte proliferation and myocardial fibrosis, and the mechanism by which exercise‐regulated FSTL1 improves cardiovascular disease, we explored the signal transduction pathway of FSTL1 promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation and fibrosis, and compared the effects of different modes of exercise on the dual role of FSTL1. We believe that the dual role of promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation and fibrosis may be related to the ratio of cardiomyocyte and myocardial interstitial cell proliferation, different stages of the disease, different degrees of fibrosis, immune repair process, and transforming growth factor‐β activation. Compared with long‐term excessive endurance exercise, moderate resistance exercise can activate cardiomyocyte proliferation pathway through FSTL1, which is one of the effective ways to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion is modulated by macrophage‐stimulating 1 through the MAPK‐ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhou Dingzhou , Zhang Mingming , Min Liu , Jiang Kaiyuan , Jiang Yugang
Published: February 2020

Cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion (IR) injury is associated with mitochondrial damage. Macrophage‐stimulating 1 (MST1) reportedly stimulates mitochondrial apoptosis by suppressing BCL‐2. We investigated whether MST1 promotes the progression of cerebral IR injury by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction in vivo and in vitro. Western blot analysis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and mitochondrial function assays were conducted in cells from wild‐type and Mst1‐knockout mice subjected to cerebral IR injury. MST1 expression in wild‐type glial cells increased following cerebral IR injury. Cerebral IR injury reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial metabolism in glial cells, while it enhanced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondrial calcium levels in these cells. The deletion of Mst1 attenuated cerebral IR injury by improving mitochondrial function and reducing mitochondrial damage. The mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway was suppressed in wild‐type glial cell upon cerebral IR injury but was reactivated in Mst1‐knockout glial cell. Accordingly, blocking the MAPK/ERK pathway abolished the beneficial effects of Mst1 deletion during cerebral IR injury by inducing mitochondrial damage in glial cells. Our results suggest that cerebral IR injury is associated with MST1 upregulation in the brain, while the genetic ablation of Mst1 can attenuate mitochondrial damage and sustain brain function following cerebral IR injury.
RNA m6A methylation regulates uveal melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting c‐Met
Authors: Luo Guangying , Xu Weiwei , Zhao Yunping , Jin Shanshan , Wang Siqi , Liu Qi , Chen Xiaoyan , Wang Jiao , Dong Feng , Hu Dan‐Ning , Reinach Peter S. , Yan Dongsheng
Published: February 2020

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is a novel epitranscriptomic marker that contributes to regulating diverse biological processes through controlling messenger RNA metabolism. However, it is unknown if m6A RNA methylation affects uveal melanoma (UM) development. To address this question, we probed its function and molecular mechanism in UM. Initially, we demonstrated that global RNA m6A methylation levels were dramatically elevated in both UM cell lines and clinical specimens. Meanwhile, we found that METTL3, a main m6A regulatory enzyme, was significantly increased in UM cells and specimens. Subsequently, cycloleucine (Cyc) or METTL3 targeted small interfering RNA was used to block m6A methylation in UM cells. We found that Cyc or silencing METTL3 significantly suppressed UM cell proliferation and colony formation through cell cycle G1 arrest, as well as migration and invasion by functional analysis. On the other hand, overexpression of METTL3 had the opposite effects. Furthermore, bioinformatics and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction identified c‐Met as a direct target of m6A methylation in UM cells. In addition, western blot analysis showed that Cyc or knockdown of METTL3 downregulated c‐Met, p‐Akt, and cell cycle‐related protein levels in UM cells. Taken together, our results demonstrate that METTL3‐mediated m6A RNA methylation modulates UM cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting c‐Met. Such a modification acts as a critical oncogenic regulator in UM development.
A glimpse into molecular mechanisms of embryonic stem cells pluripotency: Current status and future perspective
Authors: Fathi Maroufi Nazila , Hasegawa Kouichi , Vahedian Vahid , Nazari Soltan Ahmad Saeed , Zarebkohan Amir , Miresmaeili Mazrakhondi Seyed Ali , Hosseini Vahid , Rahbarghazi Reza
Published: February 2020

Embryonic stem cells have potential differentiation ability into a large variety of cell lineages and proved to be an effective therapeutic modality. However, prolonged in vitro and ex‐vivo expansions impair embryonic stem cells multipotentiality, and thereby limit their clinical application. In the past few years, research collected attempts to explore new insights into the molecular mechanisms participate in the stemness capacity of embryonic stem cells. Along with these comments, modalities and strategies with the potential to maintain embryonic stem cells multipotentiality are of great interest. In this review, the authors attempted to discuss the pathways participating in the preservation of embryonic stem cells multipotentiality and emphasized the novel strategies that help to harness regenerative potential.
TCP11L2 promotes bovine skeletal muscle‐derived satellite cell migration and differentiation via FMNL2
Authors: Li Shuang , Wang Zhiqi , Tong Huili , Li Shufeng , Yan Yunqin
Published: February 2020

T‐complex 11 like 2 (TCP11L2) is a protein containing a serine‐rich region in its N‐terminal region. However, the function of TCP11L2 is unclear. Here, we showed that TCP11L2 expression gradually increased during muscle‐derived satellite cell (MDSC) differentiation in vitro, reaching a peak on Day 3, which is the migration and fusion stage of MDSCs. Using CRISPR/dCas9 gene‐editing technology to elevate or repress the expression of TCP11L2, we also showed that TCP11L2 promoted MDSC differentiation. Moreover, wound‐healing assays showed that TCP11L2 promoted the migration of MDSCs during differentiation. Additionally, immunofluorescence analyses showed that TCP11L2 was mainly distributed around the microfilament and microtubules. Furthermore, the expression of TCP11L2 affected the expression of actin‐related protein 2/3 (ARP2/3) complex. Co‐immunoprecipitation assays and immunofluorescence analysis showed that TCP11L2 interacted with formin‐like 2 (FMNL2). This protein promoted migration of bovine MDSCs by affecting the expression of ARP2/3. Finally, the activities of TCP11L2 during MDSC differentiation and migration were blocked when FMNL2 was inhibited. Taken together, our data established that TCP11L2 interacted with FMNL2 to promote MDSC migration and differentiation.
Extracellular adenosine enhances the ability of PMNs to kill Streptococcus pneumoniae by inhibiting IL-10 production
Authors: Siwapornchai Nalat , Lee James N , Tchalla Essi Y I , Bhalla Manmeet , Yeoh Jun Hui , Roggensack Sara E , Leong John M , Bou Ghanem Elsa N
Published: February 2020

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are crucial for initial control of Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) lung infection; however, as the infection progresses their persistence in the lungs becomes detrimental. Here we explored why the antimicrobial efficacy of PMNs declines over the course of infection. We found that the progressive inability of PMNs to control infection correlated with phenotypic differences characterized by a decrease in CD73 expression, an enzyme required for production of extracellular adenosine (EAD). EAD production by CD73 was crucial for the ability of both murine and human PMNs to kill S. pneumoniae. In exploring the mechanisms by which CD73 controlled PMN function, we found that CD73 mediated its antimicrobial activity by inhibiting IL-10 production. PMNs from wild-type mice did not increase IL-10 production in response to S. pneumoniae; however, CD73−/− PMNs up-regulated IL-10 production upon pneumococcal infection in vitro and during lung challenge. IL-10 inhibited the ability of WT PMNs to kill pneumococci. Conversely, blocking IL-10 boosted the bactericidal activity of CD73−/− PMNs as well as host resistance of CD73−/− mice to pneumococcal pneumonia. CD73/IL-10 did not affect apoptosis, bacterial uptake, and intracellular killing or production of antimicrobial neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase. Rather, inhibition of IL-10 production by CD73 was important for optimal reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by PMNs. ROS contributed to PMN antimicrobial function as their removal or detoxification impaired the ability of PMNs to efficiently kill S. pneumoniae. This study demonstrates that CD73 controls PMN antimicrobial phenotype during S. pneumoniae infection.
Spatial distribution of the level of return of extreme precipitation events in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Daniele T. , Gonçalves Weber A. , Spyrides Maria H. C. , Santos e Silva Cláudio M. , de Souza Diego O.
Published: February 2020

This study aimed to estimate levels of return of extreme daily precipitation events, associating them with natural disasters in Northeast Brazil (NEB), a region characterized by different climatic conditions and low rates of social and economic development. For this, generalized Pareto distribution (GPD) models were adjusted to the daily extreme precipitation data estimated by the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42 product of the multisatellite precipitation analysis for a period of 16 years (2000–2015). In addition, the estimates of the GPD model were compared using two data sources, TRMM and pluviometer. The investigation showed that the results of the GPD model estimated by means of the extreme data from the rain gauge and the TRMM were statistically the same, with 95% confidence. Thus, using the data referring to the 2,082 grid points of the TRMM, it was possible to map the spatial distribution of the estimates of the levels of return of extreme precipitation to the return periods of 2, 5 and 10 years, per seasonal period. In general, the results indicated that the intensity of expected extreme precipitation depends on the seasonal period and the place of occurrence of precipitation. The eastern NEB stood out as the region where the highest intensities of extreme precipitation are expected. Extreme precipitation values of up to 178 mm are expected in 2 years. The areas where natural disasters occurred in the years 2016, 2017 and 2018 are similar to those in which the highest rainfall intensities are expected. The results of this study can allow the evaluation of the spatial distribution of risks related to extreme precipitation events, and therefore, support the planning of regional public policies and environmental management for the prevention of natural disasters in NEB.
Shape is only a weak predictor of deep knee flexion kinematics in healthy and osteoarthritic knees
Authors: Lynch Joseph T. , Perriman Diana M. , Scarvell Jennie M. , Pickering Mark R. , Warmenhoven John , Galvin Catherine R. , Neeman Teresa , Besier Thor F. , Smith Paul N.
Published: February 2020

Tibiofemoral shape influences knee kinematics but little is known about the effect of shape on deep knee flexion kinematics. The aim of this study was to examine the association between tibiofemoral joint shape and kinematics during deep kneeling in patients with and without osteoarthritis (OA). Sixty‐one healthy participants and 58 patients with end‐stage knee OA received a computed tomography (CT) of their knee. Participants completed full flexion kneeling while being imaged using single‐plane fluoroscopy. Six‐degree‐of‐freedom kinematics were measured by registering a three‐dimensional (3D)‐static CT onto 2D‐dynamic fluoroscopic images. Statistical shape modeling and bivariate functional principal component analysis (bfPCA) were used to describe variability in knee shape and kinematics, respectively. Random‐forest‐regression models were created to test the ability of shape to predict kinematics controlling for body mass index, sex, and group. The first seven modes of the shape model up to three modes of the bfPCAs captured more than 90% of the variation. The ability of the random forest models to predict kinematics from shape was low, with no more than 50% of the variation being explained in any model. Furthermore, prediction errors were high, ranging between 24.2% and 29.4% of the data. Variations in the bony morphology of the tibiofemoral joint were weakly associated with the kinematics of deep knee flexion. The models only explained a small amount of variation in the data with high error rates indicating that additional predictors need to be identified. These results contribute to the clinical understanding of knee kinematics and potentially the expectations placed on high‐flexion total knee replacement design.
Clinicoradiographic markers of peri‐implantitis in cigarette‐smokers and never‐smokers with type 2 diabetes mellitus at 7‐years follow‐up
Authors: Alqahtani Fawaz , Alqhtani Nasser , Alkhtani Fahad , Devang Divakar Darshan , Al‐Kheraif Abdulaziz A. , Javed Fawad
Published: February 2020

Background

It is hypothesized that in the long‐term, (a) peri‐implant inflammatory variables (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP], probing depth (PD) and crestal bone loss [CBL]) are worse in cigarette‐smokers (CS) and patients with type‐2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than never‐smokers (NS) without T2DM. The aim of the present 7‐year follow‐up clinical observational study was to assess the survival of dental implant in CS and NS with T2DM.

Methods

Study participants were divided into four groups based on glycemic status and self‐reported cigarette‐smoking habit: a) CS with T2DM; b) CS without T2DM; c) NS with T2DM; and d) NS without T2DM. Demographic information was collected using a questionnaire and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were measured. Peri‐implant PI, BOP, PD, and CBL were measured. Sample‐size was estimated was statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance. P <0.01 was considered significant.

Results

In total, 101 male patients were included. There was no significant contrast in age among the groups. Every partaker in the study groups had one dental implant placed in posterior maxilla or mandible. The mean HbA1c levels were significantly higher among CS (P <0.01) and NS (P <0.01) with T2DM than individuals without T2DM. Peri‐implant PI (P <0.01), PD (P <0.01), and CBL (P <0.01) were significantly higher among CS and NS with T2DM and CS without T2DM than NS without T2DM. Peri‐implant BOP was significantly higher among CS and NS with T2DM than CS and NS without T2DM (P <0.01).

Conclusions

Peri‐implant inflammatory variables were worse among CS and NS with T2DM than NS without T2DM. A state of chronic hyperglycemia seems to be a stronger mediator of inflammation than cigarette smoking in patients with T2DM.
Differentiating various beef cuts using spatially offset Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ostovar Pour Saeideh , Fowler Stephanie M. , Hopkins David L. , Torley Peter , Gill Harsharn , Blanch Ewan W.
Published: February 2020

The potential of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) for distinguishing different beef cuts was investigated. Six different retail beef cuts (rump, Scotch fillet, round, chuck, tenderloin, and T‐bone) were analysed spectroscopically using SORS. This technique makes it possible to measure the Raman signal 5 mm below the surface of meat muscles, allowing non‐invasive analysis of meat samples that are not readily feasible using conventional Raman spectroscopy. This study has shown for the first time that monitoring of the changes in glycogen, fat, and protein content of muscles can be investigated directly and, most importantly, non‐invasively within various meat cuts. The spectral results reveal differences in structure‐sensitive bands from the amide I and III regions as well as from cysteine, glutamic acid, and phenylalanine vibrations. Statistical analysis confirms these observations based on strong clustering of SORS bands (this was derived from principal component analysis scores of the SORS data) measured for the different cuts.
Use of Supplementary Feeding Dispensers by Arctic Foxes in Norway
Authors: Thierry Anne‐Mathilde , De Bouillane De Lacoste Nathalie , Ulvund Kristine , Andersen Roy , MeÅs Roger , Eide Nina E. , Landa Arild
Published: February 2020

Supplementary feeding is often used as a conservation tool to reverse the decline of food‐limited populations. The arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) is one of the most endangered mammals in Norway and has been the target of several conservation initiatives for almost 3 decades, including supplementary feeding. To measure and improve the efficiency of supplementary feeding as a conservation action, we used passive integrated transponder (PIT)‐tags in arctic foxes and 6 feeding stations equipped with PIT‐tag readers to monitor individual use of supplemental food between 2013 and 2018. We tested hypotheses about the potential influence of temporal and spatial patterns, individual characteristics (i.e., age, sex, reproductive status), and food abundance (abundance of small rodents and amount of food filled) on the frequency and intensity of use of supplementary feeding stations by arctic foxes. The feeding stations were visited ≥1 time by 196 PIT‐tagged individuals. We detected 54% of juveniles born in the study area between 2013 and 2017 at the feeding stations. More arctic foxes used the feeding stations during the pre‐breeding period than during the other seasons, and the visits occurred mostly at night. The closest feeding station to each natal den was systematically used by the established pair and by the juveniles born at this den. Juveniles did not use the feeding stations more than adult foxes. Older foxes, and breeding adults, visited the feeding stations more than younger and non‐breeding adults. Foxes used feeding stations more intensively when prey was scarce and with greater amounts of supplemental food. This study highlights that supplemental feeding is important for breeding adults, especially in periods of low prey abundance. Understanding the use of feeding stations will contribute to the optimization of supplemental feeding as a conservation action and help wildlife managers to carefully plan and manage its discontinuation. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Wildlife Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Linear viscoelastic behavior of asphalt mixes from dynamic frequency response functions
Authors: Carret Jean‐Claude , Di Benedetto Herve , Sauzeat Cedric
Published: February 2020

In the small strain domain, asphalt mixes (AM) have a linear viscoelastic (LVE) behavior that is strongly dependent on frequency and temperature. The maximum ratio of modulus values can be up to 1000, and traditional elastic analyses are not pertinent. The possibility to characterize AM from frequency response functions (FRFs) was studied. A new optimization process using the finite element method (FEM) has been developed to back‐calculate the LVE properties of AM from FRFs. The numerical optimization process was applied to a reference material with averaged LVE properties determined from tension‐compression tests performed on a wide variety of AM types. The LVE properties were modeled considering the 3‐Dim version of the model 2S2P1D (2 Springs, 2 Parabolic elements, and 1 Dashpot). Reference FRFs for the considered reference material were obtained from FEM simulations. Three different configurations that may be of interest for practical tests were studied at five different temperatures. The proposed numerical optimization method consists in performing separate optimizations at each temperature to obtain the LVE properties for the considered temperature. Then values obtained at each temperature are considered to optimize 2S2P1D and Williams Landel Ferry (WLF) Equation constants to simulate the global LVE behavior of the material. The accuracy of the process was assessed regarding both the calculated FRFs and the complex modulus evaluation. Results indicate that the proposed optimization process converges almost perfectly towards the reference FRFs. The simulated complex modulus values are also in very good agreement with the values of the reference material.
On efficient algorithms for finding efficient salvo policies
Authors: van Ee Martijn
Published: February 2020

We consider the salvo policy problem, in which there are k moments, called salvos, at which we can fire multiple missiles simultaneously at an incoming object. Each salvo is characterized by a probability pi: the hit probability of a single missile. After each salvo, we can assess whether the incoming object is still active. If it is, we fire the missiles assigned to the next salvo. In the salvo policy problem, the goal is to assign at most n missiles to salvos in order to minimize the expected number of missiles used. We consider three problem versions. In Gould's version, we have to assign all n missiles to salvos. In the Big Bomb version, a cost of B is incurred when all salvo's are unsuccessful. Finally, we consider the Quota version in which the kill probability should exceed some quota Q. We discuss the computational complexity and the approximability of these problem versions. In particular, we show that Gould's version and the Big Bomb version admit pseudopolynomial time exact algorithms and fully polynomial time approximation schemes. We also present an iterative approximation algorithm for the Quota version, and show that a related problem is NP‐complete.
The role of cold crystallization of homochiral crystallites in the superb heat resistant poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Zhao Caixia , Yu Miaomiao , Fan Qicheng , Zou Guoxiang , Li Jinchun
Published: February 2020

The superb heat resistance poly(lactic acid) (PLA) were prepared by blending PLA and poly(d‐lactic acid) (PDLA) with various molecular weight (Mn). Formation of the stereocomplex in the blends was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. The results of the heat resistance implied it is possible that elevating the Vicat penetration temperature of PLA up to 150°C by blending with PDLA. The cold crystallization of homochiral crystallites is proven to be the critical factor affecting the heat resistance of PLA. While the PLA or PLA/PDLA blends were heated to cold crystallization temperature of samples, both the crystal content and the rigid amorphous region content are increased due to the cold crystallization and tethering effect, and the stiffness and heat resistance of the sample are improved. The cold crystallization homochiral crystallites kinetics of PLA and PLA/PDLA blends was also studied. The results showed the activation energy (∆E) of cold crystallization increased from 120.30 kJ/mol to 144.66 kJ/mol with the increasing of PDLA content from 2% to 10%.
Lyophilized hemoglobin‐albumin cluster with disaccharides: Long‐term storable powder of artificial O2‐carrier
Authors: Funaki Ryosuke , Iwasaki Hitomi , Kashima Tomonori , Komatsu Teruyuki
Published: February 2020

Core‐shell protein cluster comprising a hemoglobin (Hb) in the center and human serum albumins (HSA) at the exterior, Hb‐HSA3cluster, is an artificial O2‐carrier designed for use as a red blood cell (RBC) substitute. Lyophilization of the Hb‐HSA3cluster solution ([Hb unit] = 5 g/dL) with sucrose and trehalose yielded stable pink powder, which can be stored for 2 years at 4°C. Addition of pure water to the powder regenerated the homogeneous solution. The O2‐binding properties and oxyHb rate have been unaltered during the storage period. Infrared spectroscopic studies revealed that the hydrogen bond between protein and sugar stabilizes three‐dimensional structure of the cluster.
High thermal conductivity polylactic acid composite for 3D printing: Synergistic effect of graphene and alumina
Authors: Jiang Jun , Yang Shuangqiao , Li Linhuan , Bai Shibing
Published: February 2020

With the continuous development of the electronics industry, in order to meet the requirements of electronic equipment to reduce the size and increase power consumption, the development of high thermal conductivity materials is crucial. In this study, thermally conductive polylactic acid (PLA) composites were prepared by constructing graphene and alumina (Al2O3) hybrid filler network, and it was further successfully used in additive manufacturing. Due to the synergistic effect of Al2O3 and graphene, the resulting composite achieved the thermal conductivity of 2.4 Wm−1 K−1 with 70 wt% Al2O3 and 1 wt% graphene, which are superior to data reported in the literature in the same filler condition. The Al2O3 and graphene hybrid filler network reduced the agglomeration of graphene and the thermal contact resistance between the fillers, thereby leading a faster cooling rate. Furthermore, the obtained thermally conductive PLA composite has good thermal stability at a normal temperature. The PLA composite powder obtained by the cryogenic pulverization can be used in the laser sintering additive manufacturing process to prepare a heat conductive material with a complicated shape.
Reutilization of waste printed circuit boards nonmetallic powders in elastomer composites: Significant improvements of curing and mechanical properties
Authors: Hu Dechao , Luo Yuanfang , Lin Jing , Chen Yongjun , Jia Demin
Published: February 2020

Recycling of waste printed circuit boards nonmetallic powders (WPCBPs), as one of the significant challenges for sustainable development of resources, has attracted tremendous attentions from scientific and industrial researchers. In this work, the feasibility of WPCBP as curing accelerator and reinforcing filler in styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) composites was first explored. Vulcanization parameters and kinetics of SBR compounds were systematically investigated by moving‐die rheometer and differential scanning calorimeter. The results suggested that the incorporation of WPCBP can effectively reduce vulcanization activation energy and shorten the manufacturing cycle of SBR/SiO2 composites, which may be attributed to the activation effect from metal oxide and accelerating effect from residual additives in WPCBP. On the other hand, the coupling interfacial interactions of rubber‐SiO2 and rubber‐WPCBP result in simultaneous enhancements of tensile strength, tensile modulus, and extensibility of SBR/SiO2/WPCBP composites. Moreover, the potential applications and challenges of SBR/SiO2/WPCBP composites were also briefly analyzed. This work offers a green and efficient reutilization approach of WPCBP in elastomer composites, which may be a valuable inspiration for the high‐valued utilization of WPCBP and the preparation of high‐performance and low‐cost elastomer composites.
The effect of Ag@SiO2 core‐shell nanoparticles on the dielectric properties of PVDF based nanocomposites
Authors: Weng Ling , Wang Xiaoming , Zhang Xiaorui , Guan Lizhu , Liu Lizhu , Zhang Hexin , Cui Weiwei
Published: February 2020

High dielectric properties material has a profound influence on the development of electronic power system, polymer based composites obtained a great number of achievements on it. A new strategy, which covered a layer of insulation on the surface of the inorganic particles to form a core‐shell structure, then used it for composites is a good choice. In this article, a series of PVDF based nanocomposite with different contents were prepared by using PVDF flexible polymer as substrate and core‐shell structure Ag@SiO2 nanoparticles as fillers. The effects of Ag@SiO2 core‐shell nanoparticles on the structure and properties of composites were investigated. Results showed that Ag@SiO2 has a typical core‐shell structure and the diameter size of Ag@SiO2 nanoparticles is 100 nm in average with about 20 nm thickness of SiO2 shell. XRD analysis showed that the addition of Ag@SiO2 nanoparticles induce a transition on crystal structure of PVDF from multiphase to mainly β phase, which result in an improvement on ferroelectric properties of composites. Broadband dielectric spectroscopy results indicate that the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of nanocomposites are positively correlated with the filler's contents. The tested dielectric constant of composites increase from 8.42 (5 wt% fillers content) to 10.1 (20 wt% fillers' content), coupled with an increase on electrical breakdown strength from 21.22 to 31.46 kV/mm. The calculated energy density also increases from 0.016777 to 0.044234 J/cm3.
The Influence of AlN Nucleation Layer on Radio Frequency Transmission Loss of AlN‐on‐Si Heterostructure
Authors: Chang Shane , Zhao Ming , Spampinato Valentina , Franquet Alexis , Do Thi-Hien , Uedono Akira , Luong Tien Tung , Wang Tsang-Hsuan , Chang Li
Published: February 2020

Reducing radio frequency (RF) transmission loss is a key requirement when fabricating GaN‐on‐Si RF devices. To get a better insight into the RF loss mechanism in the GaN‐on‐Si structure, the RF loss of an AlN/Si template is investigated by varying the growth temperature of AlN during a metalorganic chemical vapor deposition process. The results show that the RF loss of the AlN/Si template is dominated by the interface loss due to the p‐type conductive channel at the AlN/Si interface, which is induced by the thermal diffusion of Al during the high‐temperature growth. Although a low growth temperature of the AlN nucleation layer can suppress the RF loss in the AlN/Si template, it results in a low crystalline quality of AlN for practical use. Optimizing the growth temperature of the AlN nucleation layer is essential to obtain a good balance between the crystalline quality, morphological quality, and RF loss such that the AlN/Si template is suitable for epitaxial growth of the complete GaN‐on‐Si RF device structure.
Design and Simulation of FeSi2‐Based Novel Heterojunction Solar Cells for Harnessing Visible and Near‐Infrared Light
Authors: Moon Md. Mahabub Alam , Ali Md. Hasan , Rahman Md. Ferdous , Hossain Jaker , Ismail Abu Bakar Md.
Published: February 2020

Herein, three novel third‐generation (3G) solar cells: n‐Si/p‐FeSi2/p+‐Si, n‐Si/p‐FeSi2/p+‐BaSi2, and n‐CdS/p‐FeSi2/p+‐BaSi2 based on the orthorhombic iron disilicide (β‐FeSi2) absorber are demonstrated theoretically for multikilowatt photovoltaic (PV) systems and space applications. These cells overcome the complication of producing low voltages (≤450 mV) of FeSi2‐based solar cells due to the narrow bandgap (≈0.87 eV) of the absorber. Using crystalline silicon (c‐Si), cadmium sulfide (CdS), and orthorhombic barium disilicide (β‐BaSi2) as junction partners, effects of parameters such as the thickness, doping and defect densities, band offsets, and temperature are studied systematically by a solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS‐1D). The highest open‐circuit voltage of 958 mV is attained materially with a 300 nm thin absorber. This article renders the optimization of the PV parameters to improve the device performance with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 28.18%, 31.61%, and 38.93% by the three novel npp+ approaches compared to the PCEs of 15.78% and 24.96% for the solar cells n‐Si/p‐FeSi2 and p‐Si/i‐FeSi2/n‐Si, respectively.
Further criterion for stochastic stability analysis of semi‐Markovian jump linear systems
Authors: Jiang Baoping , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: February 2020

This article is devoted to provide further criterion for stochastic stability analysis of semi‐Markovian jump linear systems (S‐MJLSs), in which more generic transition rates (TRs) will be studied. As is known, the time‐varying TR is one of the key issues to be considered in the analysis of S‐MJLS. Therefore, this article is to investigate general cases for the TRs that covered almost all types, especially for the type that the jumping information from one mode to another is fully unknown, which is merely investigated before. By virtue of stochastic functional theory, sufficient conditions are developed to check stochastic stability of the underlying systems via linear matrix inequalities formulation combined with a maximum optimization algorithm. Finally, a numerical example is given to verify the validity and effectiveness of the obtained results.