bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-based safety analysis method for dynamic evaluation of failure effect
Authors: Wu Yuqian , Xiao Gang , Wang Miao
Published: November 2020

System state that represents a combined influence of internal and external system parameters on the overall failure effect plays a significant role in failure effect analysis. The traditional safety analysis methods can hardly evaluate the overall failure impact due to the dynamic failure behaviors in diverse system interaction situations. To overcome this problem, this paper proposes a state-based safety analysis method for dynamic evaluation of the failure effect combining the situation factor. First, a hierarchical modeling framework that includes functional logic, physical architecture, and the failure mode is constructed, and then the cross-linking relationships between items are characterized by the state machines. Particularly, the event transmission mechanism and the global attribute updating mechanism are designed to realize the state synchronization of various systems, thus enabling the global propagation of failure. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified by simulations. The Enterprise Architect platform is used to model the aircraft integrated surveillance system and analyze the effects of different failure modes in typical situations. The proposed method complements the failure effect evaluation accuracy considering the dynamic interaction situations, thus realizing the global perception of the safety state, enhancing the dynamics and integrity of the failure effect analysis process.
The interplay between two Euler–Lagrange operators relating to the nonlinear elliptic system $$\Sigma [(u, {\mathscr {P}}), \varOmega ]$$
Authors: Morrison George , Taheri Ali
Published: November 2020

We establish the existence of multiple whirling solutions to a class of nonlinear elliptic systems in variational form subject to pointwise gradient constraint and pure Dirichlet type boundary conditions. A reduced system for certain $$\mathbf{SO}(n)$$

SO
(
n
)

-valued matrix fields, a description of its solutions via Lie exponentials, a structure theorem for multi-dimensional curl free vector fields and a remarkable explicit relation between two Euler–Lagrange operators of constrained and unconstrained types are the underlying tools and ideas in proving the main result.
Co-actions, Isometries, and isomorphism classes of Hilbert modules
Authors: Kučerovský Dan Z.
Published: November 2020

We show that aA-linear map of HilbertA-modules is induced by a unitary Hilbert module operator if and only if it extends to an ordinary unitary on appropriately defined enveloping Hilbert spaces. Applications to the theory of multiplicative unitaries let us to compute the equivalence classes of Hilbert modules over a class ofC*-algebraic quantum groups. We, thus, develop a theory that, for example, could be used to show non-existence of certain co-actions. In particular, we show that the Cuntz semigroup functor takes a co-action to a multiplicative action.
A Global Collaboration for Community-Based Disaster Preparation and Health Promotion: Fukushima to Zuunbayan in Mongolia
Authors: Yamada Chieri , Tsedendamba Bolormaa , Shajbalidir Amarbileg , Horiuchi Teruko , Suenaga Katsuko , Gun-Aajav Manlaijav , Enkhgerel Nyamdavaa , Palam Enkhtuya
Published: November 2020

Excessive radiation exposure has adverse effects on health. In Fukushima, psychological issues such as anxiety are still affecting people nine years after the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident in 2011. In light of the lessons learned from Fukushima communities, a joint Japanese and Mongolian research team introduced a community program to the Zuunbayan district in Mongolia, which is located near a uranium deposit, to promote good health by strengthening radiation emergency preparedness. The program, which commenced in 2017, aimed to increase community participation, education, information dissemination, and capacity of community preparedness. After two years a monitoring study showed that, out of 227 respondents, the proportions who thought that any level of radiation was dangerous decreased from 53.3% in 2017 to 33.9% in 2019. Moreover, half of the respondents knew that there were safe and unsafe radiation levels and that their community was safe. This global collaboration demonstrated that a lesson learned from a disaster can be applied to other countries and changed people’s recognition and behavior toward good health and disaster/emergency preparedness.
Symptoms Associated With Personal Protective Equipment Among Frontline Health Care Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Çağlar Ahmet , Kaçer İlker , Hacımustafaoğlu Muhammet , Öztürk Berkant , Öztürk Kemal
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Personal protective equipment (PPE) use is frequently construed as inconvenient and disturbing by health care professionals (HCPs). We hypothesized that new-onset symptoms among HCPs may be associated with extended use of PPE and aimed to investigate risk factors related with new-onset symptoms. In addition, the effects of new-onset symptoms on working performance were evaluated.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 315 participants filled out a questionnaire that contains 4 main parts: (1) demographics, (2) new-onset symptoms with PPE use, (3) PPE usage hours, and (4) personal opinion about the effect of sensed symptoms on working performance.

Results:

The mean age was 31.58 ± 4.6 years, and 50.5% (n = 159) were female. New-onset symptom rate was 66% (n = 208). The most common new-onset symptom was headache (n = 115, 36.5%) followed by breathing difficulty-palpitation (n = 79, 25.1%), and dermatitis (n = 64, 20.3%). Extended use of PPE, smoking, and overweight were independently associated with developing new-onset symptoms. A clear majority of symptomatic participants pointed out the impact on working performance (193/208, 92.7%).

Conclusion:

Hospitals should take the necessary precautions (eg, shorter shifts and more frequent breaks) to prevent symptoms associated with PPE and ensure that HCPs comply with these precautions.
Risk-based Regulation in the UK: Courtroom Battles Expose Ongoing Problems
Authors: BALL-KING Laurence
Published: November 2020

Since 1974, the UK has followed a risk-based approach to safety that, in the event of an incident, is enforced through the courts. The legislation is intentionally non-prescriptive and thus requires duty holders and the courts to decide what control measures were reasonable in the circumstances from ex ante and ex post positions. This has proved challenging for all parties involved. This paper describes a series of cases that have shed light on the thought processes of the courts. It appears that there is some variability in decision-making that can be attributed to several factors, including understanding of the word “risk”, the acceptability of residual risk and the validity of historical data as a means of measuring risk. In the aftermath of incidents, there is a real danger that psychological factors may intervene when the prior risk is being assessed for sentencing purposes. It is argued that while the risk-based model continues to enjoy widespread support in the UK and is not challenged, its implementation could be much eased by attention to details. This would serve to simplify courtroom debates, support those practising risk-based regulation and enable risks to be better prioritised.
Personal factors classification revisited: A proposal in the light of the biopsychosocial model of the World Health Organization (WHO)
Authors: Grotkamp Sabine , Cibis Wolfgang , Brüggemann Silke , Coenen Michaela , Gmünder Hans Peter , Keller Klaus , Nüchtern Elisabeth , Schwegler Urban , Seger Wolfgang , Staubli Stefan , von Raison Bia , Weißmann Regina , Bahemann Andreas , Fuchs Harry , Rink Marion , Schian Marcus , Schmitt Klaus
Published: November 2020

In 2010, we proposed a personal factor classification which was published in this journal. Since then, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the biopsychosocial model were increasingly incorporated into the German Social Law Code for participation and rehabilitation, implying that personal factors are indispensable for individual assessments. For the present study, we aimed to come up with an updated version of the personal factors classification based on current research. To achieve this goal, we employed a qualitative approach to re-examine the basic structure, consistency, and selection of categories in the classification from our 2010 study, to amend and supplement the categories to reflect best practice personal factor classifications. Our findings indicate that the basic structure remained largely unchanged, with relatively minor changes, including the deletion of 5 categories from our 2010 classification, 10 categories revised in format or content, and 13 new categories. We believe our revised classification to be useful for supporting users in systematically, comprehensively, and transparently reporting influences on specific aspects of individuals’ life and living background on their functioning and participation, thus facilitating an equitable allocation of disability benefits.
Factors associated with the development of paediatric chronic otitis media by age nine: a prospective longitudinal cohort study of 6560 children
Authors: Clamp P J , De-Loyde K , Maw A R , Gregory S , Golding J , Hall A
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study aimed to analyse social, health and environmental factors associated with the development of chronic otitis media by age nine.

Method

This was a prospective, longitudinal, birth cohort study of 6560 children, reviewed at age nine. Chronic otitis media defined as previous surgical history or video-otoscopic changes of tympanic membrane retraction, perforation or cholesteatoma. Non-affected children were used as the control group.

Results

Univariate analysis demonstrated an association between chronic otitis media and otorrhoea, snoring, grommet insertion, adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, hearing loss, abnormal tympanograms and preterm birth. Multivariate analysis suggests many of these factors may be interrelated.

Conclusion

The association between chronic otitis media and otorrhoea, abnormal tympanograms and grommets supports the role of the Eustachian tube and otitis media (with effusion or acute) in the pathogenesis of chronic otitis media. The role of snoring, adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy is unclear. Associations suggested by previous studies (sex, socioeconomic group, parental smoking, maternal education, childcare, crowding and siblings) were not found to be significant predictors in this analysis.
Lawfulness and Ethics around Cultural Property Auctions: The Case of the Barbier-Mueller Pre-Columbian Collection
Authors: Ruiz Romero Zara
Published: November 2020

In March 2013, the Barbier-Mueller collection of pre-Columbian art was auctioned at Sotheby’s Paris. This event ended with the sale of half of the works offered and generated a confrontation between six of the countries of origin of the artifacts, which were absolutely opposed to the sale, and the Sothebys’ Parisian branch. This article, taking the case described above as a reference, intends to analyze the ethical considerations and lawfulness implied in the buying and selling of cultural property at auction. With this purpose in mind, the arguments held by both parties in this disagreement are analyzed. At the same time, the efficacy of national laws, international conventions, and regulations is considered, mainly with reference to the use of principles and ethical codes that seem to be applied when the law has no jurisdiction.
In Search of the Holy Grail of the Conflict of Laws of Cultural Property: Recent Trends in European Private International Law Codifications
Authors: Szabados Tamás
Published: November 2020

Most private international laws do not address cultural property specifically but, instead, apply the generallex rei sitaerule also to artifacts. Legal scholarship has revealed the flaws of the rigid application of thelex rei sitaeprinciple to cultural goods and has proposed alternative connecting factors, such as thelex originisprinciple, to prevent forum and law shopping in this field. Reacting to the criticisms, some of the more recent private international law codifications have decided on the adoption of specific rules on stolen and illegally exported cultural goods that combine thelex rei sitaeand thelex originisrules and provide room for the parties’ autonomy. This article draws the conclusion that these more recent legislative solutions do not necessarily promote legal certainty and predictability with regard to the governing law and are far from being a Holy Grail for the conflict of laws of cultural property, whether on a national level or within the European Union.
Weight impacts 1-year congenital heart surgery outcomes independent of race/ethnicity and payer
Authors: Siddiqui Saira , Anderson Brett R. , LaPar Damien J. , Kalfa David , Chai Paul , Bacha Emile , Freud Lindsay
Published: November 2020

Body mass index, race/ethnicity, and payer status are associated with operative mortality in congenital heart disease (CHD). Interactions between these predictors and impacts on longer term outcomes are less well understood. We studied the effect of body mass index, race/ethnicity, and payer on 1-year outcomes following elective CHD surgery and tested the degree to which race/ethnicity and payer explained the effects of body mass index. Patients aged 2–25 years who underwent elective CHD surgery at our centre from 2010 to 2017 were included. We assessed 1-year unplanned cardiac re-admissions, re-interventions, and mortality. Step-wise, multivariable logistic regression was performed.

Of the 929 patients, 10.4% were underweight, 14.9% overweight, and 8.5% obese. Non-white race/ethnicity comprised 40.4% and public insurance 29.8%. Only 0.5% died prior to hospital discharge with one additional death in the first post-operative year. Amongst patients with continuous follow-up, unplanned re-admission and re-intervention rates were 14.7% and 12.3%, respectively. In multivariable analyses adjusting for surgical complexity and surgeon, obese, overweight, and underweight patients had higher odds of re-admission than normal-weight patients (OR 1.40, p = 0.026; OR 1.77, p < 0.001; OR 1.44, p = 0.008). Underweight patients had more than twice the odds of re-intervention compared with normal weight (OR 2.12, p < 0.001). These associations persisted after adjusting for race/ethnicity, payer, and surgeon.

Pre-operative obese, overweight, and underweight body mass index were associated with unplanned re-admission and/or re-intervention 1-year following elective CHD surgery, even after accounting for race/ethnicity and payer status. Body mass index may be an important modifiable risk factor prior to CHD surgery.
Balloon coarctation angioplasty with non-compliant balloon in low-birth-weight premature infants
Authors: Gursu H. Alper , Cetin I. Ilker , Ece Ibrahim
Published: November 2020

Although surgery is the standard treatment for native coarctation in neonates, it carries a high risk of complications. Percutaneous balloon angioplasty may be considered as an alternative treatment. The materials used in the intervention should be selected carefully to reduce complications. We recommended the use of non-compliant balloons in risky babies. They are more effective in the treatment of strick stenosis than compliant balloons.
Rethinking Propriety in the Age of Instantaneous Photography: E. W. Hornung'sCamera Fiend
Authors: Shelangoskie Susan
Published: November 2020

E. W. Hornung's novelThe Camera Fiend(1911) imagines a frighteningly extreme vision of photography. This text leverages an existing discourse about thecamera fiend—an amateur photographer who intrudes on strangers to capture snapshots of vulnerable moments. I argue that an examination of Hornung's version of the camera fiend, including its conflation with the representation of the scientist, illuminates the logic of threatening liminality and monstrous synthesis in the relationship between photography and existing social conventions. The text also proposes a solution to these cultural fears by repairing social disruptions, but it does so at a cost that is untenable.
Affective Transmission and the Invention of Characters in the Victorian Bildungsroman
Authors: Auerbach Amanda
Published: November 2020

“Affective Transmission and the Invention of Characters in the Victorian Bildungsroman” reconsiders several novels about young women as they make their way into a larger social world. Rather than achieving self-discipline, as has frequently been argued, heroines such as Lucy Snowe, Maggie Tulliver, and Margaret Hale tend to be overpowered by interpersonal emotions. They distance themselves from these affects by attributing them to fictitious characters. The gendered variation of the larger tradition this article sketches out calls into question the premise of the bildungsroman as a whole, raising the possibility that the adjustment of the self to external realities is never as complete as it seems.
Determining the input reflection coefficient of integrated antennas using over-the-air measurements under near-field conditions
Authors: van den Biggelaar A.J. , Daverveld D.P.P. , Reniers A.C.F. , Smolders A.B. , Johannsen U.
Published: November 2020

One of the current trends in the integrated circuit (IC) development is the integration of antennas on-chip or in the package of the IC. This poses challenges in the production testing process of the packaged IC, as the antenna functionality has to be included and at least one of the signal ports cannot be accessed at a conducted manner. In order to measure the reflection coefficient of an integrated antenna, a contactless characterization method (CCM) can be used. In this paper, the practicality of a CCM is assessed, having the application of a cost-effective high-volume testing procedure for integrated antennas in mind. It is shown that the CCM yields accurate results for different imperfections in the measurement setup. Moreover, measurement results around 33 GHz using a connectorized patch antenna are shown, which experimentally verify the validity of using the CCM under near-field conditions.
Statistical Modeling and Characterization of Induced Seismicity Within the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin
Authors: Kothari Sidhanth , Shcherbakov Robert , Atkinson Gail
Published: November 2020

In western Canada, there has been an increase in seismic activity linked to anthropogenic energy‐related operations including conventional hydrocarbon production, wastewater fluid injection, and, more recently, hydraulic fracturing (HF). Statistical modeling and characterization of the space, time, and magnitude distributions of the seismicity are vital for a better understanding of induced earthquake processes and development of forecasting models. In this work, a statistical analysis of the seismicity in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin was performed across past and present time periods by utilizing a compiled earthquake catalog for Alberta and eastern British Columbia. Specifically, the interevent space‐time distance distributions of earthquakes were studied using the nearest‐neighbor distance (NND) method. Additionally, the frequency‐magnitude statistics and aftershock parameters of several clusters were analyzed using the Gutenberg‐Richter relation and the epidemic‐type aftershock sequence model. The results suggest that recent regional changes in the NND distributions, namely, a disproportionate increase in loosely and tightly clustered seismic activity over time, are unnatural and likely due to the rise in HF operations for the development of unconventional resources. It is concluded that both these loosely and tightly clustered earthquake subpopulations differ measurably from what may be the region's tectonic seismic activity. Additionally, HF treatments have a greater probability of triggering swarm‐like sequences that sharply spike the seismicity rate and are characterized by larger Gutenberg‐Richterbvalues. In contrast, conventional production and wastewater disposal operations largely trigger loosely clustered activity with more typical magnitude occurrence distributions.
A Study of Daytime Convective Vortices and Turbulence in the Martian Planetary Boundary Layer Based on Half‐a‐Year of InSight Atmospheric Measurements and Large‐Eddy Simulations
Authors: Spiga A. , Murdoch N. , Lorenz R. , Forget F. , Newman C. , Rodriguez S. , Pla‐Garcia J. , Moreiras D. Viúdez , Banfield D. , Perrin C. , Mueller N. T. , Lemmon M. , Millour E. , Banerdt W. B.
Published: November 2020

Studying the atmospheric planetary boundary layer (PBL) is crucial to understand the climate of a planet. The meteorological measurements by the instruments onboard InSight at a latitude of 4.5°N make a unique rich data set to study the active turbulent dynamics of the daytime PBL on Mars. Here we use the high‐sensitivity continuous pressure, wind, and temperature measurements in the first 400 sols of InSight operations (from northern late winter to midsummer) to analyze wind gusts, convective cells, and vortices in Mars’ daytime PBL. We compare InSight measurements to turbulence‐resolving large‐eddy simulations (LES). The daytime PBL turbulence at the InSight landing site is very active, with clearly identified signatures of convective cells and a vast population of 6,000 recorded vortex encounters, adequately represented by a power law with a 3.4 exponent. While the daily variability of vortex encounters at InSight can be explained by the statistical nature of turbulence, the seasonal variability is positively correlated with ambient wind speed, which is supported by LES. However, wind gustiness is positively correlated to surface temperature rather than ambient wind speed and sensible heat flux, confirming the radiative control of the daytime Martian PBL; and fewer convective vortices are forming in LES when the background wind is doubled. Thus, the long‐term seasonal variability of vortex encounters at the InSight landing site is mainly controlled by the advection of convective vortices by ambient wind speed. Typical tracks followed by vortices forming in the LES show a similar distribution in direction and length as orbital imagery.
PCM1 is necessary for focal ciliary integrity and is a candidate for severe schizophrenia
Authors: Monroe Tanner O. , Garrett Melanie E. , Kousi Maria , Rodriguiz Ramona M. , Moon Sungjin , Bai Yushi , Brodar Steven C. , Soldano Karen L. , Savage Jeremiah , Hansen Thomas F. , Muzny Donna M. , Gibbs Richard A. , Barak Lawrence , Sullivan Patrick F. , Ashley-Koch Allison E. , Sawa Akira , Wetsel William C. , Werge Thomas , Katsanis Nicholas
Published: November 2020

The neuronal primary cilium and centriolar satellites have functions in neurogenesis, but little is known about their roles in the postnatal brain. We show that ablation of pericentriolar material 1 in the mouse leads to progressive ciliary, anatomical, psychomotor, and cognitive abnormalities. RNAseq reveals changes in amine- and G-protein coupled receptor pathways. The physiological relevance of this phenotype is supported by decreased available dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) levels and the failure of antipsychotic drugs to rescue adult behavioral defects. Immunoprecipitations show an association with Pcm1 and D2Rs. Finally, we sequencePCM1in two human cohorts with severe schizophrenia. Systematic modeling of all discovered rare alleles by zebrafish in vivo complementation reveals an enrichment for pathogenic alleles. Our data emphasize a role for the pericentriolar material in the postnatal brain, with progressive degenerative ciliary and behavioral phenotypes; and they support a contributory role forPCM1in some individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Time-resolved in situ visualization of the structural response of zeolites during catalysis
Authors: Kang Jinback , Carnis Jerome , Kim Dongjin , Chung Myungwoo , Kim Jaeseung , Yun Kyuseok , An Gukil , Cha Wonsuk , Harder Ross , Song Sanghoon , Sikorski Marcin , Robert Aymeric , Thanh Nguyen Huu , Lee Heeju , Choi Yong Nam , Huang Xiaojing , Chu Yong S. , Clark Jesse N. , Song Mee Kyung , Yoon Kyung Byung , Robinson Ian K. , Kim Hyunjung
Published: November 2020

Zeolites are three-dimensional aluminosilicates having unique properties from the size and connectivity of their sub-nanometer pores, the Si/Al ratio of the anionic framework, and the charge-balancing cations. The inhomogeneous distribution of the cations affects their catalytic performances because it influences the intra-crystalline diffusion rates of the reactants and products. However, the structural deformation regarding inhomogeneous active regions during the catalysis is not yet observed by conventional analytical tools. Here we employ in situ X-ray free electron laser-based time-resolved coherent X-ray diffraction imaging to investigate the internal deformations originating from the inhomogeneous Cu ion distributions in Cu-exchanged ZSM-5 zeolite crystals during the deoxygenation of nitrogen oxides with propene. We show that the interactions between the reactants and the active sites lead to an unusual strain distribution, confirmed by density functional theory simulations. These observations provide insights into the role of structural inhomogeneity in zeolites during catalysis and will assist the future design of zeolites for their applications.
Cryo-electron microscopy structures of pyrene-labeled ADP-Pi- and ADP-actin filaments
Authors: Chou Steven Z. , Pollard Thomas D.
Published: November 2020

Since the fluorescent reagent N-(1-pyrene)iodoacetamide was first used to label skeletal muscle actin in 1981, the pyrene-labeled actin has become the most widely employed tool to measure the kinetics of actin polymerization and the interaction between actin and actin-binding proteins. Here we report high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structures of actin filaments with N-1-pyrene conjugated to cysteine 374 and either ADP (3.2 Å) or ADP-phosphate (3.0 Å) in the active site. Polymerization buries pyrene in a hydrophobic cavity between subunits along the long-pitch helix with only minor differences in conformation compared with native actin filaments. These structures explain how polymerization increases the fluorescence 20-fold, how myosin and cofilin binding to filaments reduces the fluorescence, and how profilin binding to actin monomers increases the fluorescence.
Author Correction: Identification of epilepsy-associated neuronal subtypes and gene expression underlying epileptogenesis
Authors: Pfisterer Ulrich , Petukhov Viktor , Demharter Samuel , Meichsner Johanna , Thompson Jonatan J. , Batiuk Mykhailo Y. , Asenjo-Martinez Andrea , Vasistha Navneet A. , Thakur Ashish , Mikkelsen Jens , Adorjan Istvan , Pinborg Lars H. , Pers Tune H. , von Engelhardt Jakob , Kharchenko Peter V. , Khodosevich Konstantin
Published: November 2020

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-19869-5.
Author Correction: Truncation of mutant huntingtin in knock-in mice demonstrates exon1 huntingtin is a key pathogenic form
Authors: Yang Huiming , Yang Su , Jing Liang , Huang Luoxiu , Chen Luxiao , Zhao Xianxian , Yang Weili , Pan Yongcheng , Yin Peng , Qin Zhaohui S , Tang Beisha , Li Shihua , Li Xiao-Jiang
Published: November 2020

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-19873-9
Non-local effect of impurity states on the exchange coupling mechanism in magnetic topological insulators
Authors: Peixoto Thiago R. F. , Bentmann Hendrik , Rüßmann Philipp , Tcakaev Abdul-Vakhab , Winnerlein Martin , Schreyeck Steffen , Schatz Sonja , Vidal Raphael Crespo , Stier Fabian , Zabolotnyy Volodymyr , Green Robert J. , Min Chul Hee , Fornari Celso I. , Maaß Henriette , Vasili Hari Babu , Gargiani Pierluigi , Valvidares Manuel , Barla Alessandro , Buck Jens , Hoesch Moritz , Diekmann Florian , Rohlf Sebastian , Kalläne Matthias , Rossnagel Kai , Gould Charles , Brunner Karl , Blügel Stefan , Hinkov Vladimir , Molenkamp Laurens W. , Reinert Friedrich
Published: November 2020

Since the discovery of the quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effect in the magnetically doped topological insulators (MTI) Cr:(Bi,Sb)2Te3 and V:(Bi,Sb)2Te3, the search for the magnetic coupling mechanisms underlying the onset of ferromagnetism has been a central issue, and a variety of different scenarios have been put forward. By combining resonant photoemission, X-ray magnetic circular dichroism and density functional theory, we determine the local electronic and magnetic configurations of V and Cr impurities in (Bi,Sb)2Te3. State-of-the-art first-principles calculations find pronounced differences in their 3d densities of states, and show how these impurity states mediate characteristic short-range pd exchange interactions, whose strength sensitively varies with the position of the 3d states relative to the Fermi level. Measurements on films with varying host stoichiometry support this trend. Our results explain, in an unified picture, the origins of the observed magnetic properties, and establish the essential role of impurity-state-mediated exchange interactions in the magnetism of MTI.
Gen-FS coordinated proficiency test data for genomic foodborne pathogen surveillance, 2017 and 2018 exercises
Authors: Timme Ruth E. , Lafon Patricia C. , Balkey Maria , Adams Jennifer K. , Wagner Darlene , Carleton Heather , Strain Errol , Hoffmann Maria , Sabol Ashley , Rand Hugh , Lindsey Rebecca , Sheehan Deborah , Baugher Joseph D. , Trees Eija
Published: November 2020

The US PulseNet and GenomeTrakr laboratory networks work together within the Genomics for Food Safety (Gen-FS) consortium to collect and analyze genomic data for foodborne pathogen surveillance (species include Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli (STECs), and Campylobactor). In 2017 these two laboratory networks started harmonizing their respective proficiency test exercises, agreeing on distributing a single strain-set and following the same standard operating procedure (SOP) for genomic data collection, running a jointly coordinated annual proficiency test exercise. In this data release we are publishing the reference genomes and raw data submissions for the 2017 and 2018 proficiency test exercises.
Network-based approach highlighting interplay among anti-hypertensives: target coding-genes: diseases
Authors: Sharma Reetu
Published: November 2020

Elucidating the relation between the medicines: targets, targets: diseases and diseases: diseases are of fundamental significance as-is for societal benefit. Hypertension is one of the dangerous health conditions prevalent in society, is a risk factor for several other diseases if left untreated and anti-hypertensives (AHs) are the approved drugs to treat it. The goal of the study is to decipher the connection between hypertension with other health conditions, however, is challenging due to the large interactome. To fulfill the aim, the strategy involves prior clustering of the AHs into groups as per our previous method, followed by the analyzing functional association of the target coding-genes (tc-genes) and health conditions for each group. Following our recently published work where the AHs are clustered into six groups such that molecules having similar patterns come together, here, the distribution of molecular functions and the cellular components adopted by the tc-genes of each group are analyzed. The analyses indicate that kidney, heart, brain or lung related ailments are commonly associated with the tc-genes. The association of selective tc-genes to health conditions suggests a preference for certain health conditions despite many possibilities. Analyses of experimentally validated drug–drug combinations indicate the trend in successful AHs combinations. Clinically validated combinations bind different targets. Our study provides a promising methodology in a network-based approach that considers the influence of structural diversity of AHs to the functional perspective of tc-genes concerning the health conditions. The method could be extended to explore disease–disease relationships.
One step acid activation of bentonite derived adsorbent for the effective remediation of the new generation of industrial pesticides
Authors: Shattar Siti Fairos Ab , Zakaria Nor Azazi , Foo Keng Yuen
Published: November 2020

Herein, the facile one step acid activation of bentonite derived functionalized adsorbent (AB) for the effective remediation of both ionic and non-ionic secondary pesticides, ametryn and metolachlor has been attempted. The surface characteristics of AB were examined by the nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier Transforms Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy. The adsorptive behavior was evaluated with respect to the effect of contact time, initial concentrations and solution pH. The equilibrium data were fitted to the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models, while the adsorption kinetic was analyzed using the pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order kinetic equations. Thermodynamic parameters including the standard enthalpy change (ΔH°), standard entropy change (ΔS°), and Gibbs free energy change (ΔG°) were established. Thermodynamic analysis illustrated that the adsorption process was feasible and exothermic in nature, while the characterization findings verified the alteration of FTIR bands, and a high specific surface area of 464.92 m2/g, with a series of pores distributed over the surface. Equilibrium data was best confronted to the pseudo-second order kinetic model, while the adsorptive removal of ametryn and metolachlor onto AB was satisfactory described by the Langmuir isotherm model, with the monolayer adsorption capacities for ametryn and metolachlor of 2.032 and 0.208 mmole/g respectively. The findings outlined the potential of the newly develop AB for the on-site treatment of pesticide polluted water.
Prediction of factors affecting activation of soil erosion by mathematical modeling at pedon scale under laboratory conditions
Authors: Shojaei Saeed , Kalantari Zahra , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús
Published: November 2020

Soil degradation due to erosion is a significant worldwide problem at different spatial (from pedon to watershed) and temporal scales. All stages and factors in the erosion process must be detected and evaluated to reduce this environmental issue and protect existing fertile soils and natural ecosystems. Laboratory studies using rainfall simulators allow single factors and interactive effects to be investigated under controlled conditions during extreme rainfall events. In this study, three main factors (rainfall intensity, inclination, and rainfall duration) were assessed to obtain empirical data for modeling water erosion during single rainfall events. Each factor was divided into three levels (− 1, 0, + 1), which were applied in different combinations using a rainfall simulator on beds (6 × 1 m) filled with soil from a study plot located in the arid Sistan region, Iran. The rainfall duration levels tested were 3, 5, and 7 min, the rainfall intensity levels were 30, 60, and 90 mm/h, and the inclination levels were 5, 15, and 25%. The results showed that the highest rainfall intensity tested (90 mm/h) for the longest duration (7 min) caused the highest runoff (62 mm3/s) and soil loss (1580 g/m2/h). Based on the empirical results, a quadratic function was the best mathematical model (R2 = 0.90) for predicting runoff (Q) and soil loss. Single-factor analysis revealed that rainfall intensity was more influential for runoff production than changes in time and inclination, while rainfall duration was the most influential single factor for soil loss. Modeling and three-dimensional depictions of the data revealed that sediment production was high and runoff production lower at the beginning of the experiment, but this trend was reversed over time as the soil became saturated. These results indicate that avoiding the initial stage of erosion is critical, so all soil protection measures should be taken to reduce the impact at this stage. The final stages of erosion appeared too complicated to be modeled, because different factors showed differing effects on erosion.
Genetic analysis of phenylpropanoids and antioxidant capacity in strawberry fruit reveals mQTL hotspots and candidate genes
Authors: Pott Delphine M. , Vallarino José G. , Cruz-Rus Eduardo , Willmitzer Lothar , Sánchez-Sevilla José F. , Amaya Iraida , Osorio Sonia
Published: November 2020

Phenylpropanoids are a large class of plant secondary metabolites, which play essential roles in human health mainly associated with their antioxidant activity. Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a rich source of phytonutrients, including phenylpropanoids, which have been shown to have beneficial effects on human health. In this study, using theF. × ananassa‘232’ × ‘1392’ F1segregating population, we analyzed the genetic control of individual phenylpropanoid metabolites, total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (TEAC) in strawberry fruit over two seasons. We have identified a total of 7, 9, and 309 quantitative trait loci (QTL) for TPC, TEAC and for 77 polar secondary metabolites, respectively. Hotspots of stable QTL for health-related antioxidant compounds were detected on linkage groups LG IV-3, LG V-2 and V-4, and LG VI-1 and VI-2, where associated markers represent useful targets for marker-assisted selection of new varieties with increased levels of antioxidant secondary compounds. Moreover, differential expression of candidate genes for major and stable mQTLs was studied in fruits of contrasting lines in important flavonoids. Our results indicate that higher expression ofFaF3′H, which encodes the flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase, is associated with increased content of these important flavonoids.
Circulating miRNA-181b-5p, miRNA-223-3p, miRNA-210-3p, let 7i-5p, miRNA-21-5p and miRNA-29a-3p in patients with localized scleroderma as potential biomarkers
Authors: Wolska-Gawron Katarzyna , Bartosińska Joanna , Rusek Marta , Kowal Małgorzata , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Krasowska Dorota
Published: November 2020

Localized scleroderma (LoSc) is a rare disease manifested by an inflammation and sclerosis of the skin. The latest studies focused on glycoprotein Krebs von den Lungen-6, surfactant protein-D, chemokine ligand 18 and dipeptidylpeptidase 4 as potential biomarkers of skin fibrosis in systemic scleroderma. Our study aimed to identify 6 miRNAs with elevated or decreased levels in 38 LoSc patients (31 females, 7 males) compared to healthy volunteers (HVs) and to correlate the selected miRNAs’ serum levels with the severity and the clinical symptoms of LoSc and some laboratory parameters with the selected miRNAs’ serum levels. The serum levels of miRNAs, i.e. miRNA-181b-5p, miRNA-223-3p, miRNA-21-5p, let 7i-5p, miRNA-29a-3p and miRNA-210-3p were significantly increased in the LoSc patients compared to the HVs. The level of let-7i increase in the female LoSc patients correlated negatively with BSA (r =  − 0.355, p = 0.049) and mLoSSI (r =  − 0.432, p = 0.015). Moreover, the female patients with inactive LoSc had significantly higher level of let-7i (2.68-fold on average) in comparison to those with active disease (p = 0.045). The exact role of those molecules has not been revealed in LoSc and a long-term longitudinal research is pivotal to confirm their prognostic value.
Bideposited silver nanocolloid arrays with strong plasmon-induced birefringence for SERS application
Authors: Jen Yi-Jun , Liu Wei-Chen , Cong Ming-Yang , Chan Teh-Li
Published: November 2020

Silver nano-rod, nano-zigzag, nano-saw, and nano-particle arrays are fabricated with glancing angle bideposition. The structure-dependent anisotropic optical properties of those bideposited nanostructured arrays are measured and investigated. The equivalent birefringence values of nano-rod and nano-zigzag arrays are much larger than crystals found in nature and liquid crystal used in display products. The fact that induced localized plasmon-magnetic field between nanorods dominates the strong phase retardation between p-polarized and s-polarized transmitted wave. For the nano-saw, the strong localized electric field induced between the saw teeth leads to strong SERS signals. Although the bideposited nanoparticles own weak morphological anisotropy, strong optical phase retardation is still detected at wavelengths near 400 nm.
Ultrastructural and diffusion tensor imaging studies reveal axon abnormalities in Pompe disease mice
Authors: Lee Ni-Chung , Peng Wei-Hao , Tsai Li-Kai , Lu Yen-Hsu , Wang Hao-Chun , Shih Yao-Chia , Pung Zeng-Xian , Hu Hsi-Yuan , Hwu Wuh-Liang , Tseng Wen-Yih Isaac , Chien Yin-Hsiu
Published: November 2020

Pompe disease (PD) is caused by lysosomal glycogen accumulation in tissues, including muscles and the central nervous system (CNS). The intravenous infusion of recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase (rhGAA) rescues the muscle pathologies in PD but does not treat the CNS because rhGAA does not cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). To understand the CNS pathologies in PD, control and PD mice were followed and analyzed at 9 and 18 months with brain structural and ultrastructural studies. T2-weighted brain magnetic resonance imaging studies revealed the progressive dilatation of the lateral ventricles and thinning of the corpus callosum in PD mice. Electron microscopy (EM) studies at the genu of the corpus callosum revealed glycogen accumulation, an increase in nerve fiber size variation, a decrease in the g-ratio (axon diameter/total fiber diameter), and myelin sheath decompaction. The morphology of oligodendrocytes was normal. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies at the corpus callosum revealed an increase in axial diffusivity (AD) and mean diffusivity (MD) more significantly in 9-month-old PD mice. The current study suggests that axon degeneration and axon loss occur in aged PD mice and are probably caused by glycogen accumulation in neurons. A drug crossing the BBB or a treatment for directly targeting the brain might be necessary in PD.
Lipocalin 2 as a potential systemic biomarker for central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Matet A. , Jaworski T. , Bousquet E. , Canonica J. , Gobeaux C. , Daruich A. , Zhao M. , Zola M. , Meester-Smoor M. , Mohabati D. , Jaisser F. , Yzer S. , Behar-Cohen F.
Published: November 2020

No systemic biomarker of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) has been identified. Lipocalin 2 (LCN2 or NGAL), alone or complexed with MMP-9 (NGAL/MMP-9), is increased in several retinal disorders. Serum levels of LCN2 and NGAL/MMP-9 were measured in CSCR patients (n = 147) with chronic (n = 76) or acute/recurrent disease (n = 71) and in age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n = 130). Samples with CRP > 5 mg/L, creatinine > 100 µmol/L, and/or urea > 7.5 mmol/L were excluded. Serum LCN2 was lower in CSCR patients than controls (81.4 ± 48.7 vs 107.3 ± 44.5 ng/ml, p < 0.0001), and lower in acute/recurrent CSCR than controls (p < 0.001) and chronic CSCR (p = 0.006). Serum NGAL/MMP-9 was lower in CSCR patients than controls (47.2 ± 40.7 vs 74.1 ± 42.6, p < 0.0001), and lower in acute/recurrent CSCR than controls (p < 0.001) and chronic CSCR (p = 0.002). A ROC curve showed that for LCN2 serum levels, the 80-ng/ml cutoff value allows to discriminate acute/recurrent CSCR from controls with 80.3% sensitivity and 75.8% specificity, and for NGAL/MMP-9 serum levels, a 38-ng/ml cutoff value allows to discriminate acute/recurrent CSCR from controls with 69.6% sensitivity and 80.3% specificity. In both acute and chronic CSCR, low serum LCN2 and NGAL/MMP-9, provide a biological link between the two CSCR forms, and potential susceptibility to oxidative stress and innate immune dysregulation in CSCR.
The impact of smoking on male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)
Authors: Kawahara Takashi , Ito Hiroki , Uemura Hiroji
Published: November 2020

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are substantially prevalent and increase with age. Research on smoking as a risk factor for LUTS has been inconclusive. The present study examined the association between smoking habits and male LUTS in a population-based study using a web-based questionnaire. We firstly screened a total of 10,000 male participants who were selected according to the age distribution in the Japanese population in government data, in order to check smoking habits. We then performed a web-based survey to further investigate factors associated with LUTS, using the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire. Finally, 9042 participants (non-smokers, n = 3545; ex-smokers, n = 3060; and current-smokers, n = 2437) completed the full continence survey. Current-smokers (2.54 ± 2.73, 1.98 ± 3.57, 5.75 ± 7.02) and ex-smokers (2.80 ± 2.52, 1.81 ± 3.10, 6.58 ± 6.96) showed significantly higher OABSS total, ICIQ-SF total, and IPSS total scores than non-smokers (1.98 ± 2.40, 1.35 ± 2.90, 4.23 + -/6.33) (p: < 0.0001, < 0.0001, < 0.0001, respectively). In comparison to non-smokers, the prevalence of risk ratio for day-time frequency, nocturia, urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), OAB, and IPSS ≥ 8 were 1.2 1.2 1.4 1.5 1.5, respectively, in current-smokers and 1.3, 1.5, 1.5, 4.5, 1.8 in ex-smokers. The relative risk of OAB, nocturia, UUI, and IPSS ≥ 8 in ex- and current-smokers in comparison to non-smokers was high in the young age groups in comparison to the elderly groups. Current-smokers and ex-smokers showed a higher prevalence of male LUTS. This phenomenon was highly observed in relatively young age groups.
Survival outcome and prognostic factors in anaplastic oligodendroglioma: a single-institution study of 95 cases
Authors: Shin Dong-Won , Lee Seungjoo , Song Sang Woo , Cho Young Hyun , Hong Seok Ho , Kim Jeong Hoon , Kim Ho Sung , Park Ji Eun , Nam Soo Jeong , Kim Young-Hoon
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate prognostic factors including surgical, radiographic, and histopathologic analyses in anaplastic oligodendroglioma (AO) patients. We reviewed the electronic records of 95 patients who underwent surgery and were diagnosed with AO for 20 years. The primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Univariate and multivariable analyses included clinical, histopathological, and radiographic prognostic factors. Subgroup analysis was performed in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1/2)-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted patients. The median PFS and OS were 24.7 months and 50.8 months, respectively. The 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year PFS were 75.8%, 42.9%, 32.4%, and 16.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS were 98.9%, 76.9%, 42.9%, and 29.7%, respectively. The median PFS and OS of the IDH1/2-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted patients were 54.2 and 57.8 months, respectively. In univariate analyses, young age, frontal lobe, weak enhancement, gross total resection (GTR), low Ki-67 index, 1p/19q codeletion, and IDH1/2 mutations were associated with a favorable outcome. In multivariable analyses, IDH1/2 mutation was related to better PFS and OS. In subgroup analysis, GTR was associated with favorable outcomes.