bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Deep Learning-Based Detection and Classification System for Cyber-Attacks in IoT Communication Networks
Authors: Abu Al-Haija Qasem , McCurry Charles , Zein-Sabatto Saleh
Published: November 2020

With the rapid expansion of intelligent resource-constrained devices and high-speed communication technologies, Internet of Things (IoT) has earned a wide recognition as the primary standard for low-power lossy networks (LLNs). Nevertheless, IoT infrastructures are vulnerable to cyber-attacks due to the constraints in computation, storage, and communication capacity of the endpoint devices. From one side, the majority of newly developed cyber-attacks are formed by slightly mutating formerly established cyber-attacks to produce a new attack tending to be treated as a normal traffic through the IoT network. From the other side, the influence of coupling the deep learning techniques with cybersecurity field has become a recent inclination of many security applications due to their impressive performance. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive development of a new intelligent and autonomous deep learning-based detection and classification system for cyber-attacks in IoT communication networks leveraging the power of convolutional neural networks, abbreviated as (IoT-IDCS-CNN). The proposed IoT-IDCS-CNN makes use of the high-performance computing employing the robust CUDA based Nvidia GPUs and the parallel processing employing the high-speed I9-Cores based Intel CPUs. In particular, the proposed system is composed of three subsystems: Feature Engineering subsystem, Feature Learning subsystem and Traffic classification subsystem. All subsystems are developed, verified, integrated, and validated in this research. To evaluate the developed system, we employed the NSL-KDD dataset which includes all the key attacks in the IoT computing. The simulation results demonstrated more than 99.3% and 98.2% of cyber-attacks’ classification accuracy for the binary-class classifier (normal vs anomaly) and the multi-class classifier (five categories) respectively. The proposed system was validated using k-fold cross validation method and was evaluated using the confusion matrix parameters (i.e., TN, TP, FN, FP) along with other classification performance metrics including precision, recall, F1-score, and false alarm rate. The test and evaluation results of the IoT-IDCS-CNN system outperformed many recent machine-learning based IDCS systems in the same area of study.
Emergence of Lagrangian Field Theory from Self-Organized Criticality
Authors: Goldfain Ervin
Published: November 2020

Self-organized criticality (SOC) is a universal mechanism for self-sustained critical behavior in large-scale systems evolving outside equilibrium. Our report explores a tentative link between SOC and Lagrangian field theory, with the long-term goal of bridging the gap between complex dynamics and the non-perturbative behavior of quantum fields.
Clío en los jóvenes: un breve recorrido por la enseñanza de la historia medieval en el aula escolar
Authors: Villanueva-Falla Daniel Felipe
Published: November 2020

La historia medieval, en su paso por las aulas escolares, se ha visto sesgada, teniendo en cuenta los condicionamientos que describen este período histórico como una era oscura, sin ningún aporte a la humanidad. Sin embargo, a partir la enseñanza en el aula escolar, se podrían evidenciar elementos que lo evidencien como un legado importante en la sociedad actual, pus resulta fundamental que exista una comprensión y enseñanza de la Edad Media como una época de aportaciones significativas en los ámbitos político, económico, social y cultural; puntualmente, con las diferentes perspectivas sobre la enseñanza del Medioevo que se han desarrollado en distintos contextos. Es así como por medio de este artículo se busca evaluar la importancia de la comprensión y enseñanza de la Edad Media como un período histórico de aportaciones significativas, a partir de tres objetivos fundamentales: identificar los planteamientos en el terreno historiográfico con el fin de vislumbrar las falencias y aciertos que se han presentado en el entendimiento de este período; analizar las propuestas que han aportado a la enseñanza de la historia medieval como un proceso importante, y proponer una enseñanza de la historia medieval que permita a los jóvenes comprender los valiosos aportes de ese período histórico. Ahora bien, dos postulados primordiales acaecen producto del análisis histórico guiado a la enseñanza: el primero es el estudio de la Edad Media a partir de las realidades actuales y vivencias de los educandos, y el segundo es la apertura del debate en el aula.
Ruta de apropiación de las TIC para profesores de educación superior fundamentada en el modelo Tecnológico Pedagógico Disciplinar
Authors: Ospina-Pineda Diana Patricia , Valderrama-Muñoz Ángela María , Jiménez-Narváez María Mercedes , Arias-Gil Vanessa , Lopera-Pérez Marisol , Segura-Jiménez Herlaynne
Published: November 2020

Este artículo sintetiza el diseño de una ruta de apropiación de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC), fundamentada en el modelo Tecnológico Pedagógico Disciplinar (TPACK por su sigla en inglés, Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge), que busca generar en los profesores de educación superior reflexiones y acciones para cualificar sus prácticas docentes en la modalidad virtual. La ruta se realizó en el marco de un proyecto que utiliza la metodología de investigación basada en diseño. Así las cosas, el objetivo de este artículo es reconocer los elementos estructurantes tenidos en cuenta durante el diseño, retomando para ello algunos aspectos identificados en la literatura y los relativos a la identidad del ser docente universitario, así como el modelo TPACK, las propuestas basadas en las eactividades, el trabajo colaborativo y la gamificación. Finalmente, se concluye que el diseño educativo de una ruta de apropiación de TIC implica una reflexión a fondo sobre la relación entre lo disciplinar, lo educativo y lo tecnológico que se pregunte sobre cuáles son las transformaciones que acontecen en la educación cuando se utilizan las TIC; pues queda claro que el diseño de e-actividades ha significado un aporte para repensar la educación en ambientes virtuales de aprendizaje, ya que permiten pasar de una acción expositiva hacia formas más dialógicas e interactivas.
From Completion to Production Without Intervention in a Subsea Well
Authors: Feder Judy
Published: November 2020

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Judy Feder, contains highlights of paper OTC 30697, “From Completion to Production Without Intervention in a VXT Subsea Completed Well,” by Susanne Loen Ommundsen, Interwell, and Berit Sara Schiefloe and Olle Balstad, Equinor, et al., prepared for the 2020 Offshore Technology Conference, originally scheduled to be held in Houston, 4-7 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2020 Offshore Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

As part of an improvement program focused on increasing standardization and efficiency on subsea well operations on the Norwegian continental shelf, the operator aimed to standardize future subsea wells using vertical trees (VXT) instead of horizontal trees. This would enable batch completion of several wells with a rig, followed by XT installation with an installation, maintenance, and repair (IMR) vessel, eliminating the need for a rig or lightweight intervention (LWI) vessel. The complete paper describes the development and implementation of a glass-plug solution that closed the technical gaps that had previously inhibited fully intervention-free operation for completion installation.

Background and Field Information

Trestakk is an oil and gas field in the Norwegian Sea in Block 6406/3. The field lies in 300 m of water approximately 27 km southeast of Åsgard A. Trestakk was discovered in 1986 and the plan for development and operation was approved in 2017. Equinor operates the field with 59.1% ownership interest, with Vår Energi owning the remaining 40.9%.

The field development covers a subsea template with four well slots and one satellite well. A total of five wells will be drilled - three for production and two for gas injection. Production from the Trestakk subsea field on Haltenbanken in the Norwegian Sea began 16 July 2019.

Trestakk is tied back to the Åsgard A floating production vessel. The Petroleum Safety Authority Norway and the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate approved the application for extending the lifetime of the installation to 2031 as a result of the additional recoverable volumes from Trestakk, for which field production is expected to last for 12 years.

The goal for Trestakk was to achieve first recoverable oil at surface as soon as possible. The method selected was deployment of the completion string and VXT from a rig. The proposed solution was a barrier valve to be integrated as part of the completion string. As an operational improvement, the Trestakk team decided to design the wells with the intention of excluding wireline. Common methods for suspension and initiation of subsea wells during blowout-preventer (BOP) removal and VXT installation include installing shallow-set bridge plugs in the tubing or a tubing hanger plug. The plug is then removed using a riserless LWI vessel or rig. This method is often associated with high cost and enhanced operational risk.
Report Outlines Knowledge Gained in Gas Hydrate Production Testing
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: November 2020

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 29516, “Gas Hydrate Production Testing: Knowledge Gained,” by Timothy Scott Collett, SPE, US Geological Survey, prepared for the 2019 Offshore Technology Conference, Houston, 6-9 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2019 Offshore Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

Gas hydrates are an important potential source of unconventional natural gas. Significant progress has been made with regard to understanding geologic and engineering limitations of the ultimate energy potential of gas hydrate; however, more work is required. The complete paper reviews the results of gas hydrate engineering and production testing studies associated with northern Canada and Alaska. The results of the marine gas hydrate producing testing efforts in Japan’s Nankai Trough and in the South China Sea are also summarized.

Mallik (Canada)

The Mallik gas hydrate research site in northern Canada has been the focus of three important gas hydrate field tests (in 1998, 2002, and 2007-08). The Mallik 2L-38 gas hydrate research well (part of the 1998 testing project) was drilled to evaluate the geologic controls on the occurrence of gas hydrate and to acquire specialized core and well data needed to characterize reservoir properties.

During the 2002 project, gas hydrate was produced for the first time by both depressurizing and heating the reservoir. Depressurization alone appeared to be the most-feasible method for producing gas hydrates. However, because of the limited nature and duration of the 2002 tests, it was determined that a longer duration test would be required, leading to the 2007-08 research program.

A 12-m-thick sand-rich hydrate-bearing reservoir was tested at a down-hole flowing pressure of approximately 7.3 MPa. The fact that gas hydrates can be produced by depressurization techniques was demonstrated. The winter 2006 operations included a 6-day depressurization flow, which was able to establish a sustained and stable gas flow rate averaging approximately 3000 m3/d. The total volume of gas and water produced over the duration of the test was approximately 13 000 and 100 m3, respectively.

Alaska North Slope (US)

The occurrence of gas hydrate on the Alaska North Slope is associated closely with well-characterized petroleum systems. The Mount Elbert gas hydrate test well, in 2007, showed a mobile water phase within hydrate-bearing reservoirs even at very high gas hydrate saturations. The recognition of the presence of a mobile water phase within gas hydrate reservoirs was an important development in that it provided the means, or pathway, to draw the pressure down on hydrate-bearing reservoirs. The PBU L-Pad area was identified as the optimal site for the subsequent Iġnik Sikumi gas hydrate production test.
Machine-Learning Image Recognition Enhances Rock Classification
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: November 2020

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 196657, “Machine Learning for 3D Image Recognition To Determine Porosity and Lithology of Heterogeneous Carbonate Rock,” by Omar Al-Farisi, SPE, Hongtao Zhang, and Aikifa Raza, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, prepared for the 2019 SPE Reservoir Characterization and Simulation Conference and Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, 17-19 September. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Automated image-processing algorithms can improve the quality and speed in classifying the morphology of heterogeneous carbonate rock. Several commercial products have produced petrophysical properties from 2D images and, to a lesser extent, from 3D images. Images are mainly microcomputed tomography (μCT), optical images of thin sections, or magnetic resonance images (MRI). However, most successful work is from homogeneous and clastic rocks. In the complete paper, the authors have demonstrated a machine-learning-assisted image-recognition (MLIR) approach to determine the porosity and lithology of heterogeneous carbonate rock by analyzing 3D images from µCT and MRI.

Introduction

The authors’ literature review has revealed the pressing need to perform 3D image processing instead of 2D. Achieving this goal requires an interdisciplinary approach. This study deployed new analysis and verification approaches, including 3D micromodels (3DMM) with various micropore sizes and uses 3DMM as an image-processing calibration reference. Additionally, a new image-resolution enhancement for quality segmentation is developed. Porosity was determined mainly using two methods. The first is a standalone image processing, in which image-information extraction was successful. The second is MLIR. The difference between image processing and image analysis is important. If image processing enables extraction of meaningful data, then image analysis is the ability to interpret this data through numerical analysis.
Technology Focus: Sand Management (October 2020)
Authors: Abbasy Imran
Published: November 2020

Our industry currently is challenged with developing more and more complex and difficult-to-produce reservoirs. Exploration and production companies are now compelled to develop assets that were not deemed viable in the past. Deepwater, remote, deep, hot, and viscous oil comes to mind; however, sand-producing reservoirs also rank high on this list. As reservoirs age, sand production becomes more difficult to manage, and is perhaps one of the most-difficult tasks engineers face today.

Sand control has evolved over the years; however, the fundamentals of screen sizing have not changed. Particle-size distribution remains the basis for most designs. Laser diffraction has provided better definition of fines, and greater focus is placed now on particle-shape characterization. For those of you interested in delving into these topics, paper SPE 199335 provides a good overview. Testing remains a key element of any sand-control endeavor. Several derivatives of screens are now on the market; however, the original wire-wrapped screens are still used extensively. The so-called segmented completions are a relatively new addition to the engineer’s arsenal. Splitting the wellbore into several sections, along with flow-control devices, offers benefits where heterogeneities are prevalent. Several operators have attempted through-tubing sand remediations - consolidation, gravel pack, straddle screens - with mixed results. Suffice to say, every job is unique and must be engineered as such. Job planning is the key.

Technology trends that hold promise include materials that conform to the borehole behind screens (i.e., shape-memory polymer) and downhole wireline logs to identify sand-producing intervals. To date, these technologies are not as mature as one would like. During my time as a production technologist, I craved these tools and did not have them. I’m glad to see this is beginning to change.

A final thought: Keep your sand control simple if you can. Complex is not necessarily better. I have managed to flow unconsolidated sands with simple slotted liners with great success.
Special Considerations for Well Tubular Design at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Tao Gang , Matthews Cam , Adams Adrian
Published: November 2020

Understanding of material properties for tubular design under high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) conditions goes well beyond the basics of the classic methods routinely used in the industry. Coupon test results of high-strength tubulars commonly used in HP/HT wells are presented to demonstrate the temperature and strain-rate dependencies of the stress-strain response. Based on the coupon test results, analytical equations and advanced nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA) are used to illustrate the substantial impact that the temperature and rate-dependent material properties have on pipe body and connection performance in HP/HT applications. This paper raises an awareness of the importance of strain-rate effects, and recommendations are made on a few special considerations to account for these effects in well tubular design for elevated temperature applications. In addition, the findings also provide the basis for a critical discussion of the applicable American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)/American Petroleum Institute (API) test standards and the need to understand the effect of different strain/loading rates that may be used in material characterization and full-scale testing of tubular products at elevated temperatures. Collectively the information and results presented in the paper are expected to be very useful to the new generation of engineers charged with the tubular design for challenging well applications involving elevated temperature and severe load conditions.
Pregnancy outcomes of Chinese women undergoing IVF with embryonic cryopreservation as compared to natural conception
Authors: wang jingxue , liu qiwei , Deng Boer , chen fang , liu xiaowei , cheng jiumei
Published: November 2020

Background: To examine differences in the maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of Chinese women with various causes of infertility who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) with embryonic cryopreservation treatment.Methods: Cases were pregnancies after IVF-ET with embryonic cryopreservation; controls were spontaneously conceived pregnancies. Subgroup analysis was carried out according to etiology of infertility. The IVF treatment group was divided into 5 subgroups according to infertility etiology as follows: ovulation disorder, tubal disease, male infertility, endometriosis, and mixed infertility. Data on demographic characteristics, medical history, laboratory tests, and delivery were reviewed. Logistic regression analysis was performed for pregnancy and perinatal complications and neonatal outcomes. The multivariable model was adjusted for potential confounders.Results: Among singleton pregnancies, compared with spontaneous pregnancies, IVF pregnancies were associated with significant increases in the rates of the following: gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (aOR 1.76[95% CI 1.33-2.33]), preeclampsia (2.60[1.61-4.20]), preterm preeclampsia (4.52[2.03-10.06]), postpartum hemorrhage (1.57[1.04-2.36]), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (3.84[1.06-13.94]), preterm premature rupture of membranes (2.11[1.17-3.81]), preterm birth (1.95[CI 1.26-3.01]), low birthweight (1.90[1.13-3.20]), macrosomia (1.53[1.03-2.27]), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (1.69[1.22-2.34]) in the ovulation disorder group; GDM (1.50[1.21-1.86]), placenta previa (2.70[1.59-4.59]), placenta accreta (1.78[1.10-2.89]), postpartum hemorrhage (1.61[1.19-2.18]), macrosomia (1.60[1.21-2.13]) and 5-minute Apgar score ≤7 (4.09[1.04-16.08]) in the tubal disease group; placenta previa (9.33[4.22-20.62]), small for gestational age (2.29[1.04-5.08]), macrosomia (2.00[1.02-3.95]) and NICU admission (2.35[1.35-4.09]) in the endometriosis group; placenta previa (4.14[2.23-7.68]) and placenta accreta (2.05[1.08-3.87]) in the male infertility group; and GDM (1.85[1.15-2.98]), placenta previa (4.73[1.83-12.21]), placental abruption (3.39[1.20-9.56]), chorioamnionitis (2.93[1.04-8.26]), preterm birth (2.69[1.41-5.15]), and 1-minute Apgar score ≤7 (4.68[1.62-13.51]) in the mixed infertility group. Among multiple pregnancies, most of the differences that were significant in singleton pregnancies were less extensive or had disappeared.Conclusions: Infertility etiology within the IVF population was found to affect maternal and neonatal outcomes among all births. During the perinatal period, infertility etiology appears to be an additional risk factor for abnormal pregnancy outcomes besides the use of IVF techniques compared with spontaneous pregnancies. Higher risk was found for ovulation disorders, and lower risk was found for male infertility.
Geriatricians’ Standpoint of the Informed Consent Process Among Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: The Lebanese Context
Authors: Fakhro MPH DPT PT Mohammed Ali
Published: November 2020

BackgroundDespite the existence of laws that ensure that patients’ capacity to consent is assessed systematically, many gray areas remain with that regard. As dementia progresses, some patients lose their capacity to make decisions. This study aimed to investigate the geriatricians’ understanding of the principle of autonomy and their perception of the decision-making capacity (DMC) testing as part of the informed consent (IC) process among patients with AD. Proposing an algorithm for a reliable, comprehensive, and valid assessment of DMC was the secondary aim of this study.MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive study was designed to empirically collect data via an e-survey. Accordingly, a comprehensive list of geriatricians was provided by the Lebanese Order of Physicians. Geriatricians were approached via a phone call, to provide them with study-specific information. Those who accepted to participate received a link to the study’s survey via an e-mail.ResultsAmong the eligible geriatricians, 75% had completed the e-survey, with a mean of 14.7 ± 9.6 years of experience. More than half of the geriatricians failed to recognize that assessing the patients’ DMC is an integral component of the informed consent (IC) process. Yet, 88.9% assessed the DMC of their patients with AD using different modalities. However, the majority were unable to justify their judgment of DMC based on the tools they have selected.ConclusionLebanese geriatricians have demonstrated a poor understanding of the concept of autonomy and failed to recognize the need for the DMC assessment as a component of the IC’s process. Moreover, they were unable to select adequate tools to assess and judge the DMC of their patients with AD.
Characteristics of Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Older Adults after the PICMOR Intervention Program: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Sugimoto Hikaru , Kawagoe Toshikazu , Otake-Matsuura Mihoko
Published: November 2020

Background: The present study aimed to provide a basis for future research examining the neural mechanisms that underlie the beneficial effect of an intervention program, Photo-Integrated Conversation Moderated by Robots (PICMOR), on verbal fluency in older adults as identified in our previous randomized controlled trial. In this preliminary report, we conducted an additional experiment using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) after the intervention period. Specifically, we investigated the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) characteristics of the intervention group (INT) compared to the control group (CONT). Methods: rsfMRI data were acquired from 31 and 30 participants in INT and CONT, respectively, after the intervention. In the analyses, two of the most important regions in verbal fluency, the left inferior and middle frontal gyri, were selected as seed regions, and the rsFCs were compared between groups. We also conducted regression analyses for rsFCs using the difference in individual phonemic verbal fluency task (PVFT) scores between the pre- and post-intervention periods (i.e., post- minus pre-intervention) as an independent variable. Results: We found higher rsFC in INT than in CONT between the left inferior frontal gyrus as a seed region and the temporal pole and middle frontal gyrus. The rsFC strength between the left inferior frontal gyrus and temporal pole positively correlated with an increased PVFT score between the pre- and post-intervention periods. In contrast, we found lower rsFC in INT than in CONT between the left middle frontal gyrus as a seed region and the posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and postcentral gyrus. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the beneficial intervention effect of PICMOR on verbal fluency is characterized by enhanced rsFC of the left inferior frontal gyrus with semantic and executive control-related regions and suppressed rsFC between the left middle frontal gyrus and posterior cortical midline structures. No definitive conclusions can be made because of a lack of rsfMRI data before the intervention. However, this pilot study provides the candidates for rsFCs, reflecting the beneficial effects of PICMOR on the brain network involved in verbal fluency. Trial registration: The trial was retrospectively registered at the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000036667) (May 7th, 2019).
Optical coherence tomography angiography evaluation of the effects of phacoemulsification cataract surgery on macular hemodynamics in Chinese normal eyes
Authors: Jia Xinyu , Wei Yinjuan , Song Hui
Published: November 2020

Background: To quantitatively evaluate the possible effects of phacoemulsification cataract surgery on macular hemodynamics using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: This was a prospective observational study. Superficial and deep macular vascular densities, as well as parameters of foveal avascular zone (FAZ), were measured preoperatively (baseline) and at 1 day, 1 week, and 4 weeks postoperatively in normal eyes (≥22 mm and ≤24 mm) of patients scheduled for phacoemulsification cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation. The correlations between the rate of change of pre- and post-operative vascular densities and surgical parameters were analyzed. Results: A total of 123 eyes of 107 patients were included in this study. Compared to the baseline measurements, no statistically significant variation was found in macular vascular densities at 1 day after the surgery (P>0.05). Both superficial and deep macular vascular densities were significantly increased postoperatively at weeks 1 and week 4 (P<0.05; P<0.05), however no statistically significant differences were detected in any of the FAZ parameters between the baseline measurements and the entire follow-up period (P>0.05 for all). Also, no statistically significant correlations were established between main surgical parameters and macular vascular densities changes. Conclusions: In normal eyes, macular blood perfusion gradually increased after phacoemulsification cataract surgery and was stabilized in one week. The foveal avascular zone was stabilized before and after the surgery. The main parameters and intraoperative perfusion of phacoemulsification surgery may not be the key factors affecting macular hemodynamics.
The role of chalcogen vacancies for atomic defect emission in MoS2
Authors: Mitterreiter Elmar , Schuler Bruno , Barthelmi Katja , Cochrane Katherine , Kiemle Jonas , Sigger Florian , Klein Julian , Wong Ed , Barnard Edward , Refaely-Abramson Sivan , Qiu Diana , Lorke Michael , Jahnke Frank , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Finley Jonathan , Schwartzberg Adam , Holleitner Alexander , Weber-Bargioni Alexander , Kastl Christoph
Published: November 2020

For two-dimensional (2D) layered semiconductors, control over atomic defects and understanding of their electronic and optical functionality represent major challenges towards developing a mature semiconductor technology using such materials. Here, we correlate generation, optical spectroscopy, atomic resolution imaging, and ab-initio theory of chalcogen vacancies in monolayer MoS2. Chalcogen vacancies are selectively generated by in-vacuo annealing, but also focused ion beam exposure. The defect generation rate, atomic imaging and the optical signatures support this claim. We discriminate the narrow linewidth photoluminescence signatures of vacancies, resulting predominantly from localized defect orbitals, from broad luminescence features in the same spectral range, resulting from adsorbates. Vacancies can be patterned with a precision below 10 nm by ion beams, show single photon emission, and open the possibility for advanced defect engineering of 2D semiconductors at the ultimate scale.
Disentangling water, ion and polymer dynamics in an anion exchange membrane
Authors: Foglia Fabrizia , Berrod Quentin , Gebel Gérard , Sakai V. , Appel Markus , Zanotti Jean-Marc , Tyagi Madhu Sudan , Mahmoudi Najet , Clancy Adam , Miller Thomas , Smith Keenan , Brett Dan , Shearing Paul , Lyonnard Sandrine , McMillan Paul
Published: November 2020

Fuel cells that generate electrical power by the direct electrochemical conversion of fuel to electricity are expected to become important sustainable energy sources for transportation and stationary applications. Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems operating with oxygen and hydrogen or bio-derived fuels require an ion exchange membrane to transport H+ or OH- ions between the anode and cathode. Proton conduction in Nafion membranes is well studied. However these PEMFC systems rely on noble metal electrocatalysts due to the corrosive nature of the acidic electrolyte. An alkaline electrolyte allows non-noble catalysts to be used at the cathode, leading to reduced cost and enhanced sustainability. Understanding OH- transport and how it influences water management and polymer dynamics in anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is a critical design challenge and design parameter. Here, neutron scattering is used to disentangle the water, polymer relaxation and OH- diffusion dynamics in a commercial AEM system
Acceptance and Completion of Rifapentine-Based TB Preventive Therapy (3HP) Among People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in Kampala, Uganda – Patient and health Worker Perspectives.
Authors: Semitala Fred C , Musinguzi Allan , Ssemata Jackie , Welishe Fred , Nabunje Juliet , Kadota Jillian L. , Berger Christopher A. , Katamba Achilles , Kiwanuka Noah , Kamya Moses R. , Dowdy David , Cattamanchi Adithya , Katahoire Anne R.
Published: November 2020

BackgroundA 12-dose, once-weekly regimen of isoniazid and rifapentine (3HP) is effective in preventing tuberculosis (TB) among people living with HIV (PLHIV). We sought to identify potential barriers to and facilitators of 3HP implementation from the perspective of PLHIV and health workers in a routine HIV care setting in Kampala, Uganda.MethodsWe conducted semi-structured interviews with 25 PLHIV and 10 health workers at an HIV/AIDS clinic in Kampala, Uganda. For both groups, we explored their understanding and interpretations of TB and TB preventive therapy (TPT), and perceptions about social and contextual factors that might influence willingness of PLHIV to initiate and complete 3HP. We analyzed the data using an inductive thematic approach and aligned the emergent themes to the Behavior Change Wheel framework to identify sources of behavior and targeted behavior change interventions.ResultsFacilitators for uptake and completion of 3HP among PLHIV were fear of contracting TB, awareness of being potentially at risk of getting TB, willingness to take TPT, trust in health workers, and the perceived benefits of DOT and SAT. Barriers included inadequate understanding of TPT, fear of potential side effects, concerns about effectiveness of 3HP as well as the perceived challenges of DOT or SAT. Among health workers, perceived facilitators included knowledge that TB is a common cause of mortality, fear of getting TB, patient trust in their health workers, potential for once-weekly dosing and the benefits of TPT delivery. Health workers perceived potential barriers for PLHIV as being: inadequate understanding of TB and TPT, TB associated stigma, potential side effects, pill burden and challenges of taking TPT. Additional barriers included a lack of experience among health workers with the use of digital technology to monitor patient care.Conclusions Using a formative qualitative and comprehensive theoretical approach, we identified key sources of behavior that could be used to guide selection of appropriate intervention to optimize 3HP scale up among PLHIV in high burden settings.
Significant Abnormal Glycemic Variability Increased the Risk for Arrhythmias in Middle-Aged and Elderly Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Tang Kuanxiao , Zhang Jianbo , Yang Jianmin , Liu Liwei , Li Liyan , Cui Jiangyin , Wu Shuo
Published: November 2020

Background: Little is known about whether the influence of glycemic variability on arrhythmia is related to age in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, we aimed to compare the association between glycemic variability and arrhythmia in middle-aged and elderly T2DM patients. Methods: A total of 107 patients were divided into two groups: elderly diabetes mellitus group (EDM, n=73) and middle-aged diabetes mellitus group (MDM, n=34). The main clinical data, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and dynamic ECG reports were collected. The parameters including standard deviation (SDBG), largest amplitude of glycemic excursions (LAGE), mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), absolute means of daily differences (MODD) were tested for glycemic variability evaluation. Results: In terms of blood glucose fluctuations, MAGE (5.77±2.16mmol/L vs 4.63 ±1.89mmol/L, P=0.026), SDBG (2.39±1.00mmol/L vs 2.00±0.82mmol/L, P=0.048), LAGE (9.53±3.37mmol/L vs 7.84±2.64 mmol/L, P=0.011) was significantly higher in EDM group than those of MDM group. The incidences of atrial premature beat, couplets of atrial premature beat, atrial tachycardia and ventricular premature beat were significantly higher in EDM group compared with the MDM group (all P<0.05). Among patients with hypoglycemia events, the incidences of atrial premature beat, couplets of atrial premature beat, atrial tachycardia and ventricular premature beat (all P<0.05) were significantly higher in the EDM group than those in the MDM group. Conclusions: The study demonstrated the elderly patients had greater glycemic variability and were more prone to arrhythmias. Therefore, active control of blood glucose fluctuation in elderly patients will help to reduce the risk of severe arrhythmia.
A Label-free, Fast and High-specificity Technique for Plant Cell Wall Imaging and Composition Analysis
Authors: Xu Huimin , Zhao Yuanyuan , Suo Yuanzhen , Guo Yayu , Man Yi , Jing Yanping , He Xinqiang , Lin Jinxing
Published: November 2020

Background: Cell wall imaging can considerably permit direct visualization of the molecular architecture of cell walls and provide the detailed chemical information on wall polymers, which is imperative to better exploit and use the biomass polymers; however, detailed imaging and quantifying of the native composition and architecture in the cell wall remains challenging.Results: Here, we describe a label-free imaging technology, coherent Raman scattering microscopy (CRS), including coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy, which images the major structures and chemical composition of plant cell walls. The major steps of the procedure are demonstrated, including sample preparation, setting the mapping parameters, analysis of spectral data, and image generation. Applying this rapid approach, which will help researchers understand the highly heterogeneous structures and organization of plant cell walls.Conclusions: This method can potentially be incorporated into label-free microanalyses of plant cell wall chemical composition based on the in situ vibrations of molecules.
Roles of Waxy and Soluble Starch Synthase Iia Alleles in Determining Different Type Resistant Starch Contents of Rice
Authors: You Hui , Zhang Ouling , Liang Xu , Liang Cheng , Chen Yongjun , Xiang Xunchao
Published: November 2020

BackgroundResistant Starch (RS) is a functional starch that has functions of regulating diabetes, hypertension and obesity. The effects of most starch synthesis-related genes (SSRGs) on RS content and their relationships are largely unknown. ResultsIn current study, ninety-nine lines from a recombinant inbred line were selected to investigate the effects of SSRGs on the RS content in different process status. Results revealed that RS content decreased dramatically after cooking, but it did not increase significantly after cooling for 7 days. And RS was closely related to many indexes of physicochemical properties, but was not correlated with granule size. Waxy (Wx) played an important role in controlling RS content and Wxa could elevate RS content in raw milled rice, cooked rice and retrograded rice. Soluble starch synthase IIa (SSIIa) had an impact on RS2, and RS2 content of indica SSIIa were significantly higher than that of japonica SSIIa (SSIIaj). Moreover, interaction of Wx and SSIIa was responsible for variations of RS content in three sample types, RS2 and volume proportion of different size starch granules. ConclusionsWx and SSIIa together significantly regulate different types content of RS in rice, but SSIIa only affects RS2. Wxa-SSIIaj is favorable to forming large-diameter starch granules.
Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells Increase Chi3l1 Secretion in Exosome to Activate Myh9 and Promote Proliferation through Connexin47 Connected to Astrocytes
Authors: Jiang Lu , ZHANG XIAOYAN , Xu Dan , Zhang Wenjin , Peng GuoGuang , Tang Yong , Peng Yan
Published: November 2020

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, caused by the loss of neurons or myelin sheath, are some of the most important neurological diseases that threaten the health of the elderly. In the CNS, oligodendrocytes (OLs) are the only cells that can form myelin. Astrocytes (ASTs) play a generally beneficial role in remyelination, including the proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to OLs. However, the specific downstream mechanism is unclear.Methods: This study investigated the proliferation of OPCs in OPCs mono-culture, OPCs culture with ASTs supernatant, and ASTs-OPCs co-culture. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis were used to analyze the differentially expressed genes after transcriptome sequencing of these OPCs. Electron microscope, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Fluorescence tracing of exosomes and Western blot were used to evaluate the effects of exsomes. Pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and mass spectrometry analys were conducted to find the downstream signal proliferation which is transmitted information into OPCs.Reasults: Direct contact co-culture of ASTs and OPCs promotes the proliferation of OPCs. After Cx47 siRNA interference under ASTs-OPCs co-culture, Chi3l1 secretion in exosome reveals associated decrease, and OPCs proliferation decreased. The cell proliferation induced by Chi3l1 was inhibited after siRNA interfered with Myh9, and the expression of cyclin D1 was also decreased.Conclusions: These results suggest that ASTs transmit information to OPCs by increasing gap junction channel Cx47, thereby promoting the secretion of Chi3l1 in exosome of OPCs. The secretory form of Chi3l1 in exosome might be easier to enter the target cell than in extracellular supernatant, which is beneficial to the activation of Myh9 to promote OPCs proliferation. This may be a potential target for drugs rescuing neurodegeneration diseases related to remyelination.
Hippocampal Volume Influences The Correlations Between White Matter Disruption and Tau Protein in aMCI and mild AD
Authors: Magalhães Thamires Naela Cardoso , Casseb Raphael Fernandes , Gerbelli Christian Luiz Baptista , Pimentel-Silva Luciana Ramalho , Nogueira Mateus Henrique , Teixeira Camila Vieira Ligo , Carletti Ana Flávia Mac Knight , Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro de , Joaquim Helena Passarelli Giroud , Talib Leda Leme , Forlenza Orestes Vicente , Cendes Fernando , Balthazar Marcio Luiz Figueredo
Published: November 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Association of Metabolic Obesity Phenotypes and Total Testosterone in Middle-aged and Elderly Male Population
Authors: Guan Qingbo , Liu Luna , Liu Shuang , Song Qianmei , Luo Dandan , Su Yu , Qi Xiangyu , Wang Qian , Ning Jing , Lv Youyuan
Published: November 2020

Objectives Obesity and metabolic syndrome have been reported to exert an impact on male reproductive system with decreasing levels of serum total testosterone (TT), however, the effect of different metabolic obesity phenotypes on testosterone has been poorly studied. We aimed to evaluate the association of metabolic obesity phenotypes and total testosterone levels in male population. Methods We performed a retrospective study based on an epidemiological investigation, a total of 4 081 middle-aged and elderly male individuals were recruited. The population was classified as metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW); metabolically healthy obese (MHO); metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) according to normal weight (BMI<25.0) and obesity (BMI≥25.0) with or without metabolic syndrome. Results We collected 563 hypotestosteronemia among 4 081 middle-aged and elderly male individuals. The odds ratios (ORs) (95% CIs) of hypotestosteronemia in obesity and metabolic syndrome was 3.072 (2.414-3.911) and 3.294 (2.631-4.125) respectively, after adjusting for age, luteinizing hormone, smoking status and alcohol consumption. Compared to MHNW group, male subjects in MHO, MUNW and MUO groups had a decreased serum TT levels. Additionally, MUO group have a lowest concentration of serum TT and a highest proportion of hypotestosteronemia. There was no significant difference of TT levels between MHO and MUNW group. Conclusions Obesity and metabolic syndrome are independent risk factor of hypotestosteronemia in middle-aged and elderly male populations. Our study also suggested that individuals with MHO, MUNW and MUO have a higher risk of developing hypotestosteronemia.
Tilt and Strain Change During the Explosion at Minami-dake, Sakurajima, on November 13, 2017
Authors: Hotta Kohei , Iguchi Masato
Published: November 2020

We herein proposed an alternative model for deformation caused by each eruption at Sakurajima, which have been previously interpreted as being due to a Mogi-type source beneath Minami-dake. On November 13, 2017, a large explosion with a plume height of 4,200 m occurred at Minami-dake. During the three minutes following the onset of the explosion (November 13, 2017, 22:07–22:10 (Japan standard time (UTC+9); the same hereinafter), phase 1, a large strain change was detected at the Arimura observation tunnel (AVOT) located approximately 2.1 km southeast from the Minami-dake crater. After the climax of the explosion (November 13, 2017, 22:10–24:00), phase 2, a large deflation was detected at every monitoring stations due to the continuous Strombolian eruption. Subsidence toward Minami-dake was detected at five out of six stations whereas subsidence toward the north of Sakurajima was detected at the newly installed Komen observation tunnel (KMT), located approximately 4.0 km northeast from the Minami-dake crater. The large strain change at AVOT during phase 1 can be explained by a very shallow deflation source beneath Minami-dake at 0.1 km below sea level (bsl). For phase 2, a deeper source beneath Minami-dake at a depth of 3.3 km bsl deflated in addition to the shallow source beneath Minami-dake, which turned inflationary after the deflation obtained during phase 1. However, this model cannot explain the tilt change of KMT. Adding a spherical deflation source beneath Kita-dake at a depth of 3.2 km bsl can be explain the tilt and strain change at KMT and the other stations. The Kita-dake source was also found in a previous study of long-term ground deformation events. Not only the deeper Minami-dake source M D but also the Kita-dake source deflated due to the Minami-dake explosion.
Intra- and Inter-observer Reliability of Implant Positioning Evaluation on a CT-based Three-dimensional Postoperative Matching System for Total Knee Arthroplasty.
Authors: Watanabe Shotaro , Akagi Ryuichiro , Shiko Yuki , Ono Yoshimasa , Kawasaki Yohei , Ohdera Toshihiro , Ohtori Seiji , Sasho Takahisa
Published: November 2020

Introduction: The evaluation of postoperative total knee arthroplasty (TKA) alignment mainly relies on measurement data obtained from plain radiographs. The aim of this retrospective observational study was to document the intra- and inter-observer reliability in assessment of TKA component positioning after surgery using a three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) image matching system. Materials and Methods: Fourteen knees from 14 patients who received primary TKA were included, and images were analyzed by blinded readers not associated with the surgeries. The examiner digitized the reference points according to defined landmarks, and the designated size component was superimposed to the 3D reconstructed CT model for measurement. In addition to the evaluation of implant position against the coronal and sagittal lower limb mechanical axes that were defined based on bony landmarks, implant position against axes connecting implant-based reference points that are easier to indicate was evaluated.Results: The overall intra- and inter-observer reliabilities determined by the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) of the implant alignment measurement for both femoral and tibial components were good for both mechanical and implant-based axes. The difference between implant alignment measurements according to the traditional mechanical axis and the implant-based axis ranged between means of 0.08o and 1.70o and were statistically significantly different.Conclusions: The postoperative evaluation of implant position in the coronal and sagittal planes using 3D-CT image matching is reliable and has good reproducibility. The measured implant position according to the traditional mechanical axis and the implant-based axis were slightly but significantly different.