bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cystatin C regulates the cytotoxicity of infection‐induced endothelial‐derived β‐amyloid
Authors: Balczon Ron , Morrow Kyle A. , Leavesley Silas , Francis Christopher M. , Stevens Trevor C. , Agwaramgbo Ezinne , Williams Christopher , Stevens Reece P. , Langham Geri , Voth Sarah , Cioffi Eugene A. , Weintraub Susan E. , Stevens Troy
Published: October 2020

Infection of rat pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa induces the production and release of cytotoxic oligomeric tau and beta amyloid (Aβ). Here, we characterized these cytotoxic amyloids. Cytotoxic behavior and oligomeric tau were partially resistant to digestion with proteinase K, but cytotoxicity was abolished by various denaturants including phenol, diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC), and 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐isopropanol (HFIP). Ultracentrifugation for 8 h at 150 000 g was required to remove cytotoxic activity from the supernatant. Ultracentrifugation, DEPC treatment, and immunodepletion using antibodies against Aβ also demonstrated that cytoprotective protein(s) are released from endothelial cells during P. aeruginosa infection. Mass spectrometry of endothelial cell culture media following P. aeruginosa infection allowed identification of multiple potential secreted modulators of Aβ, including cystatin C, gelsolin, and ApoJ/clusterin. Immunodepletion, co‐immunoprecipitation, and ultracentrifugation determined that the cytoprotective factor released during infection of endothelial cells by P. aeruginosa is cystatin C, which appears to be in a complex with Aβ. Cytoprotective cystatin C may provide a novel therapeutic avenue for protection against the long‐term consequences of infection with P. aeruginosa.
Long‐term effects of hormone replacement therapy on hepatocellular carcinoma risk and overall survival rate in women with chronic hepatitis C: A population‐based cohort study in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Kuo‐Kuan , Mo Lein‐Ray , Wang Chun‐Hsiang , Hsieh Chia‐Chi , Hsu Hua‐Yin , Tseng Yi‐Chen , Tseng Yuan‐Tsung
Published: October 2020

The relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was discussed for several decades. However, the long‐term effects of HRT on female patients with hepatitis C during nature postmenopausal periods are unclear. This study aimed at investigating the effect of HRT on HCC risk and overall survival. We conducted a retrospective population‐based cohort study using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2013. The treated cohort, consisting of 1022 patients with hepatitis C who received hormone analog therapy for at least 90 days (treated cohort), was matched with the control cohort, consisting of 1022 untreated patients with hepatitis C (controls) who had never received a hormone prescription, through propensity score adjustment; furthermore, cumulative incidence was calculated, and multivariable analyses were performed. The treated and control cohorts were followed up for mean periods of 7.47 and 6.64 years, respectively. The treated cohort had a significantly lower crude hazard ratio (HR) of HCC of 0.43 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30‐0.61, P < .001), with an adjusted HR of 0.49 (95% CI 0.31‐0.76, P = .001). After adjustment for other confounders and comorbidities, the hormone analog treatment was associated with a reduced risk of HCC. Subgroup analyses provided estimates of the strength of the associations between HRT and reduced HCC risk in different age categories. Our retrospective population study in Taiwan revealed that using hormone analog reduces the risk of HCC and mortality in patients with hepatitis C virus infection who are receiving HRT, such as menopausal women.
An Electroactive Pure Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence Polymer Based on a Donor‐Oxygen‐Acceptor Geometry
Authors: Liu Xinrui , Yang Liuqing , Li Xuefei , Zhao Lei , Wang Shumeng , Lu Zheng‐Hong , Ding Junqiao , Wang Lixiang
Published: October 2020

An electroactive room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) polymer has been demonstrated based on a characteristic donor‐oxygen‐acceptor geometry. Compared with the donor–acceptor reference, the inserted oxygen atom between donor and acceptor can not only decrease hole‐electron orbital overlap to suppress the charge transfer fluorescence, but also strengthen spin‐orbital coupling effect to facilitate the intersystem crossing and subsequent phosphorescence channels. As a result, a significant RTP is observed in solid states under photo excitation. Most noticeably, the corresponding polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) reveal a dominant electrophosphorescence with a record‐high external quantum efficiency of 9.7 %. The performance goes well beyond the 5 % theoretical limit for typical fluors, opening a new door to the development of pure organic RTP polymers towards efficient PLEDs.
Reductive Arylation of Amides via a Nickel‐Catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura‐Coupling and Transfer‐Hydrogenation Cascade
Authors: Boit Timothy B. , Mehta Milauni M. , Kim Junyong , Baker Emma L. , Garg Neil K.
Published: October 2020

We report a means to achieve the addition of two disparate nucleophiles to the amide carbonyl carbon in a single operational step. Our method takes advantage of non‐precious‐metal catalysis and allows for the facile conversion of amides to chiral alcohols via a one‐pot Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling/transfer‐hydrogenation process. This study is anticipated to promote the development of new transformations that allow for the conversion of carboxylic acid derivatives to functional groups bearing stereogenic centers via cascade processes.
Solvent‐resistant ultrafine nonwoven fibrous membranes by ultraviolet‐assisted electrospinning of organo‐soluble photosensitive polyimide resin
Authors: Qi Lin , Liu Jin‐gang , Yang Yang , Guo Chen‐yu , Huangfu Meng‐ge , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2020

An ultraviolet‐assisted electrospinning (UVAES) method was investigated to improve the solvent stability of soluble polyimide (PI) electrospun ultrafine fibrous membranes (UFMs) to assist in the development of fibrous polymeric materials with improved resistance to harsh environmental conditions and to expand the potential applications for such soft filaments. A preimidized soluble negative photosensitive polyimide (PSPI) was synthesized via an one‐step thermal polycondensation from 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) and 1,1′‐bis(4‐amino‐3,5‐dimethylphenyl)‐1‐(3′‐trifluoromethylphenyl)methane (TFMDA). The PI resin was then fabricated into UFMs by both conventional electrospinning (ES) and UVAES with N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc) as the solvent. During spinning, photo crosslinking reaction occurred, accompanied by simultaneous micro‐jets of PI‐UV ultrafine fibers in the UVAES procedure. This created fibers that were thermally stable at higher than 500°C, reflection over 77% of the 457‐nm‐ wavelength light, whiteness index (WI) higher than 83, and enhanced solvent resistance in DMAc. Generally speaking, compared with the PI UFMs fabricated by conventional ES procedure, the PI‐UV UFMs obtained by the newly‐developed UVAES procedure showed much superior solvent resistance, comparable thermal stability, slightly decreased optical reflectance and WI values, and reduced fiber diameters. These properties are of great value to future applications in microelectronics and wearable technology.
“Impossible objects” in a life‐threatening crisis: A study of patients suffering from adverse childhood experiences and myocardial infarction
Authors: Petersen Anke , Ruettner Barbara , Kaiser Paul , Richardt Gert , Goetzmann Lutz
Published: October 2020

Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are considered as risk factors for myocardial infarction (MI). It is unknown how ACE affects the experience of MI patients. In a qualitative study, a total of 25 MI patients with and without ACE (ACE: n = 20, N‐ACE: n = 5) were asked about their biography and the heart attack. A content analysis was carried out. Inter‐rater reliability showed a good to complete agreement. ACE patients reported primarily on experiences of loss and violence in their childhood and youth. ACE patients tend to dissimulate symptoms, and there is a hazardous latency of seeking medical help. The potential helpers are experienced as “impossible objects.” Primary care providers should pay special attention to the situation of ACE patients and be aware of their countertransference, that is, that the condition is not recognized as seriously as it should be.
Responses of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp.) to small drones
Authors: Giles Anna B. , Butcher Paul A. , Colefax Andrew P. , Pagendam Dan E. , Mayjor Maddison , Kelaher Brendan P.
Published: October 2020

Recent advances in aerial drones offer new insights into the biology, ecology and behaviour of marine wildlife found on or near the ocean’s surface. While opening up new opportunities for enhanced wildlife monitoring, the impacts of drone sampling and how it might influence interpretations of animal behaviour are only just beginning to be understood.

The capacity of drones to record bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops spp.) behaviour was investigated, along with how the presence of a small drone at varying altitudes influences dolphin behaviour. Over 3 years and eight locations, 361 drone flights were completed between altitudes of 5 and 60 m above the ocean.

Analyses showed that dolphins were increasingly likely to change behaviour with decreasing drone altitude. A positive correlation was also found between time spent hovering above a group of dolphins and the probability of recording a behavioural response. Dolphin group size also influenced the frequency of an observed behavioural change, displaying a positive correlation between behaviour change and group size.

Overall, although drones have the potential to impact coastal dolphins when flown at low altitudes, they represent a useful tool for collecting ecological information on coastal dolphins owing to their convenience, low cost and capacity to observe behaviours underwater. To maximize benefits and minimize impacts, this study suggests that drones should be flown 30 m above coastal bottlenose dolphins.
Brain morphology of Gymnura lessae and Gymnura marmorata (Chondrichthyes: Gymnuridae) and its implications for batoid brain evolution
Authors: Montes‐Domínguez Héctor Marcos , Castillo‐Rivera Manuel Arnoldo , Ayala‐Pérez Luis Amado , González‐Isáis Mónica , Reynoso Víctor Hugo
Published: October 2020

Although skeletal and muscle anatomy has supported Gymnuridae as the sister group of the most derived myliobatoids, recent studies based on molecular characters suggest that the family branches into a more basal position than previously thought. This study aims to understand the brain anatomy of the genus Gymnura and its importance in the evolution of the batoid brain. The brain anatomy of Gymnura lessae and Gymnura marmorata is relatively simple. They exhibit a small brain and telencephalon (T), where the latter is wider than it is longer, and the division of the posterior central nucleus is poorly developed. The cerebellum (C) is symmetrical and is not highly foliated. Unlike other species, the brain auricles are smooth, and the posterior auricles exhibit a diagonal arrangement, not always forming a bridge over the fourth ventricle. These auricles are larger in G. marmorata. A principal component analysis based on 20 morphological variables, revealed a separation between species, and multivariate analysis of variance identified significant differences. The most important variables in species segregation were a deeper olfactory bulb in G. lessae and a greater distance between the bulbs in G. marmorata. Contrary to the body anatomy, the brain anatomy reveals that Gymnura has a simpler and more primitive brain than most derived myliobatoids. Our results are consistent with the evidence from phylogenies developed with molecular data, where gymnurids are a basal group within myliobatoids.
No Increased DNA Damage Observed in the Brain, Liver, and Lung of Fetal Mice Treated With Ethylnitrosourea and Exposed to UMTS Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Lerchl Alexander , Klose Melanie , Drees Karen
Published: October 2020

The widespread use of mobile phones and Wi‐Fi‐based communication devices makes exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF‐EMF) unavoidable. Previous experiments have revealed the tumor‐promoting effects of non‐ionizing RF‐EMF in adult carcinogen‐treated mice in utero. To extend these investigations, we tested whether these effects are due to the co‐carcinogenicity of RF‐EMF which would manifest as elevated DNA damage. Similar to previous experiments, pregnant mice were exposed to RF‐EMF (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System [UMTS] standard, approximately 1,960 MHz) from day 7 post‐conception (p.c.) at 0 (sham), 0.04, and 0.4 W/kg SAR. At day 14 p.c., the mice were injected with the carcinogen ethylnitrosourea (ENU, 40 mg/kg). At three time‐points specifically 24, 36, and 72 h later, the pregnant females were sacrificed and the fetuses (n = 24–57) were removed. A dye (cy3) specific for adenyl adducts was used to detect DNA damage by fluorescence microscopy in the brain, liver, and lung of each fetus. Compared to control (0 W/kg SAR), exposure to RF‐EMF had no effect on the formation of DNA adducts in the inspected tissues. We conclude that increased adenyl formation of DNA by RF‐EMF exposure is not a valid explanation for the previously reported tumor‐promoting effects of RF‐RMF. Our findings may help to gain a deeper insight into the biological effects of RF‐EMF exposure in the context of malignancy. © 2020 The Authors. Bioelectromagnetics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Bioelectromagnetics Society
Dauerschwingverhalten von Betonstahl im Dauerfestigkeitsbereich N ≥ 10 Millionen
Authors: Rappl Stefan , Osterminski Kai , Ansary Shima , Hiemer Florian
Published: October 2020

Das Ermüdungsverhalten von Betonstahl im Dauerfestigkeitsbereich stellt sich so gut wie unerforscht dar. Windenergieanlagen (On‐ und Offshore) werden jedoch gerade diesen hohen Lastwechselzahlen aus Windbeanspruchung und Seegang ausgesetzt. Für die Untersuchung dieser Fragestellung wurden rund 80 Betonstähle mit zwei unterschiedlichen Durchmessern (10 und 16 mm) auf drei verschiedenen Schwingweiten getestet. Die Probekörper wurden teilweise bis zu 100 Mio. Lastwechseln in einem Hochfrequenzpulsator mit ca. 100 Hz beansprucht. Dabei wurde insbesondere der Einfluss der Oberflächenbeschaffenheit bei größeren Durchmessern deutlich. So versagten die Proben mit Durchmesser 16 mm vorzeitig an Oberflächenbeschädigungen aus dem Walz‐ bzw. Richtprozess, während die dünneren Probekörper die vorgegebene Lastwechselzahl erreichten. Mit zunehmender Schwingweite konnte zudem eine starke Zunahme von Einspannbrüchen unabhängig vom Durchmesser festgestellt werden. Mit zunehmendem Durchmesser wurde ein stärkerer Abfall der Überlebenswahrscheinlichkeit beobachtet. Bei Betrachtung der Oberfläche mit dem Rasterelektronenmikroskop konnten zahlreiche Anrisse an der Oberfläche von Durchläufer‐Probekörpern festgestellt werden. Diese waren insbesondere an kerbspannungsexponierten Stellen wie Rippenfüßen oder Kerben aus dem Richtprozess zu finden.
Big Baby, Little Mother: Tsetse Flies Are Exceptions to the Juvenile Small Size Principle
Authors: Haines Lee R. , Vale Glyn A. , Barreaux Antoine M. G. , Ellstrand Norman C. , Hargrove John W. , English Sinead
Published: October 2020

While across the animal kingdom offspring are born smaller than their parents, notable exceptions exist. Several dipteran species belonging to the Hippoboscoidea superfamily can produce offspring larger than themselves. In this essay, the blood‐feeding tsetse is focused on. It is suggested that the extreme reproductive strategy of this fly is enabled by feeding solely on highly nutritious blood, and producing larval offspring that are soft and malleable. This immense reproductive expenditure may have evolved to avoid competition with other biting flies. Tsetse also transmit blood‐borne parasites that cause the fatal diseases called African trypanosomiases. It is discussed how tsetse life history and reproductive strategy profoundly influence the type of vector control interventions used to reduce fly populations. In closing, it is argued that the unusual life history of tsetse warrants their preservation in the areas where human and animal health is not threatened.
Density Functional Theory Calculations of the Adsorption of Cytosine on Si(100)
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Kyung , Kim Do Hwan
Published: October 2020

We have performed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the adsorption structures of cytosine on Si(100). Multiple adsorption configurations that could result from Lewis acid–base reactions or cycloadditions were optimized, and the structural and energetic parameters of the obtained adsorption structures were compared. Row‐bridged bidentate configurations with SiOCNCNSi linkages to two silicon atoms in adjacent dimer rows were found to be more stable than other configurations. The SiN bond was formed by NH dissociative adsorption, while the SiO bond was dative. In the monodentate structures, the CH or NH dissociative adsorption structures were more energetically favorable than the datively bonded ones. Cycloaddition through the π‐electrons of the CN or CC bonds of the cytosine ring resulted in relatively unstable adsorption products.
Longitudinal analysis of brain structure using existence probability
Authors: Maikusa Norihide , Fukami Tadanori , Matsuda Hiroshi ,   The Japanese Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (J‐ADNI)
Published: October 2020

Introduction

We propose a method to evaluate quantitatively the longitudinal structural changes in brain atrophy to provide early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

We used existence probabilities obtained by segmenting magnetic resonance (MR) images at two different time points into four regions: gray matter, white matter, cerebrospinal fluid, and background. This method was applied to T1‐weighted MR images of 110 participants with normal cognition (NL), 165 with MCI, and 82 with AD, obtained from the Japanese Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database.

Results

We obtained the coefficients of probability change (CPC) for each dataset. We found high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) values (up to 0.908 of the difference of ROCs) for some CPC regions that are considered indicators of atrophy. Additionally, we attempted to establish a machine‐learning algorithm to classify participants as NL or AD. The maximum accuracy was 92.1% for NL‐AD classification and 81.2% for NL‐MCI classification using CPC values between images acquired at first and sixth months, respectively.

Conclusion

These results showed that the proposed method is effective for the early detection of AD and MCI.
Pediatric COVID‐19 case with regard to the family infection chain and the psychosocial context
Authors: Schwarz Silke , Steuber Christian , Krafft Hanno , Boehm Katja , Martin David
Published: October 2020

The role of children in households, spreading SARS‐CoV‐2, may differ from measles or influenza, and therefore, these diseases are not directly comparable to COVID‐19. The psychosocial aspect of infection and quarantine for families and children suggests that fear of social stigmatization can lead to not disclosing the infection.
Facial disfigurement due to olfactory neuroblastoma: beauty regained with chemotherapy
Authors: Kumar Parmod , Sundriyal Deepak , Bhandari Rekha , Singh Abhijeet , Jat Bhinyaram , Sehrawat Amit
Published: October 2020

Background

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a sinonasal malignancy seldom seen in clinical practice. It is also known by various other names like esthesioneuroblastoma, esthesioneuroepithelioma, esthesioneurocytoma, and esthesioneuroma. Surgery and radiation therapy are considered as standard treatment modalities for ONB; however, the role of chemotherapy is not well established.

Aims

We aim to define the role of chemotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting in a case of ONB.

Methods and Results

We report a young female patient presenting with a naso‐facial swelling causing facial disfigurement, proptosis, decreased visual acuity, and poor performance status. She was diagnosed with advanced‐stage ONB. Prompt administration of chemotherapy led to the improvement in the symptoms and rapid regression of the tumor mass. Later on, the tumor mass was excised completely without any neurological deficit.

Conclusion

This report justifies the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the management of ONB.
Isolation of Plant Root Nuclei for Single Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Thibivilliers Sandra , Anderson Dirk , Libault Marc
Published: October 2020

The characterization of the transcriptional similarities and differences existing between plant cells and cell types is important to better understand the biology of each cell composing the plant, to reveal new molecular mechanisms controlling gene activity, and to ultimately implement meaningful strategies to enhance plant cell biology. To gain a deeper understanding of the regulation of plant gene activity, the individual transcriptome of each plant cell needs to be established. Until recently, single cell approaches were mostly limited to bulk transcriptomic studies on selected cell types. Accessing specific cell types required the development of labor‐intensive strategies. Recently, single cell sequencing strategies were successfully applied on isolated Arabidopsis thaliana root protoplasts. However, this strategy relies on the successful isolation of viable protoplasts upon the optimization of the enzymatic cocktails required to digest the cell wall and on the compatibility of fragile plant protoplasts with the use of microfluidic systems to generate single cell transcriptomic libraries. To overcome these difficulties, we present a simple and fast alternative strategy: the isolation and use of plant nuclei to access meaningful transcriptomic information from plant cells. This protocol was specifically developed to enable the use of the plant nuclei with 10× Genomics’ Chromium technology partitions technology. Briefly, the plant nuclei are released from the root by chopping into a nuclei isolation buffer before purification by filtration then nuclei sorting. Upon sorting, the nuclei are resuspended in a low divalent ion buffer compatible with the Chromium technology in order to create single nuclei ribonucleic acid‐sequencing libraries (sNucRNA‐seq). © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Arabidopsis seed sterilization and planting

Basic Protocol 2: Nuclei isolation from Arabidopsis roots

Basic Protocol 3: Fluorescent‐activated nuclei sorting (FANS) purification

Support Protocol: Estimation of nuclei density using Countess II automated cell counter

Alternate Protocol 1: Proper growth conditions for Medicago truncatula and Sorghum bicolor

Alternate Protocol 2: Estimation of nuclei density using sNucRNA‐seq technology
Guide offers best practices for meeting the needs of deaf students during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2020

The National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes has put together a best practices guide for supporting deaf students during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The guide includes suggestions for best practices if courses have shifted to online learning due to the pandemic, as well as suggestions for best practices for holding in‐person classes.
Using Continuous‐Time Spatial Capture–Recapture models to make inference about animal activity patterns
Authors: Distiller Greg B. , Borchers David L. , Foster Rebecca J. , Harmsen Bart J.
Published: October 2020

Quantifying the distribution of daily activity is an important component of behavioral ecology. Historically, it has been difficult to obtain data on activity patterns, especially for elusive species. However, the development of affordable camera traps and their widespread usage has led to an explosion of available data from which activity patterns can be estimated.

Continuous‐time spatial capture–recapture (CT SCR) models drop the occasion structure seen in traditional spatial and nonspatial capture–recapture (CR) models and use the actual times of capture. In addition to estimating density, CT SCR models estimate expected encounters through time. Cyclic splines can be used to allow flexible shapes for modeling cyclic activity patterns, and the fact that SCR models also incorporate distance means that space–time interactions can be explored. This method is applied to a jaguar dataset.

Jaguars in Belize are most active and range furthest in the evening and early morning and when they are located closer to the network of trails. There is some evidence that females have a less variable pattern than males. The comparison between sexes demonstrates how CT SCR can be used to explore hypotheses about animal behavior within a formal modeling framework.

SCR models were developed primarily to estimate and model density, but the models can be used to explore processes that interact across space and time, especially when using the CT SCR framework that models the temporal dimension at a finer resolution.
Graphenised Lithium Iron Phosphate and Lithium Manganese Silicate Hybrid Cathodes: Potentials for Application in Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Myalo Zolani , Ikpo Chinwe Oluchi , Nwanya Assumpta Chinwe , Ndipingwi Miranda Mengwi , Duoman Samantha Fiona , Mokwebo Kefilwe Vanessa , Iwuoha Emmanuel Iheanyichukwu
Published: October 2020

Sol‐gel and hand milling techniques were used to prepare a lithium iron phosphate‐lithium manganese silicate (LiFePO4−Li2MnSiO4) hybrid cathode materials. The structural studies from x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) show that the materials are well crystallized although few impurities were observed in the pristine LiFePO4 (LFP) and Li2MnSiO4 (LMS) materials. We used graphene to coat the hybrid cathode materials in order to increase its conductivity and enhance the electrochemical performance. The successful reduction of the graphene oxide into graphene nanosheets was confirmed with the results from the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The morphological analysis indicate that the pristine materials are made of spherical nanoparticles that are slightly agglomerated while the sol‐gel‐prepared hybrid cathode materials show evenly distributed spherical nanoparticles with minimal agglomeration. The in situ sol‐gel technique gave more homogenously mixed material in comparison to the hand milling method and particle sizes of 37 and 23 nm respectively were obtained for the plain, and graphenised sol gel derived hybrid materials. The sol‐gel derived hybrid materials are also the most thermally stable giving a total weight loss of 4.5 % and 3.4 % for the plain and graphenised cathodes respectively. While the LFP‐LMS hybrid cathode materials performed better electrochemically more than the pristine materials in terms of enhanced current and specific capacities, the graphenised LFP‐LMS hybrid cathode materials showed better electrochemical properties compared to those without graphene. This is associated with the presence of graphene nanosheets in these samples. All the results confirmed that the graphenised LiFePO4−Li2MnSiO4 hybrid cathode material prepared via in situ sol‐gel method performed better than those of the hand milling method.
Wirelessly powered dielectrophoresis of metal oxide particles using spark‐gap Tesla coil
Authors: Budiman Faisal , Silalahi Desri Kristina , Muhamad Bagaskoro , Fathurahman Muhammad Rafi , Rozana Monna , Tanaka Hirofumi
Published: October 2020

Wirelessly powered dielectrophoresis (DEP) of metal oxide particles was performed using a spark‐gap Tesla coil (TC). The main contribution of this work is the simplification of the conventional DEP setup that requires attaching wires directly to the electrodes. Wireless power from the TC generates a high output frequency and voltage, which corresponds to that used for the DEP. Therefore, a spark‐gap TC was built and utilized to conduct the DEP process. Metal oxides (ZnO and Fe2O3) were used as targets for the assembly. The results showed that the wirelessly powered DEP technique via a TC was successful in assembling the metal oxide particles. Positive and negative DEP phenomena were observed. Positive DEP occurred during ZnO assembly, making particles chain grow 0.92 mm toward the sparks within 60 s. Negative DEP was observed during Fe2O3 assembly, where the repulsion of particles formed a void around the sparks with a 1.45 mm radius. The mechanism of this wireless DEP system is discussed.
Performance analysis of hybrid solar chimney–power plant for power production and seawater desalination: A sustainable approach
Authors: Abdelsalam Emad , Kafiah Feras , Tawalbeh Muhammad , Almomani Fares , Azzam Ahmad , Alzoubi Ibrahim , Alkasrawi Malek
Published: October 2020

This study presents a novel design that combines cooling tower (CT) and traditional solar chimney power plant (SCPP) technologies for electricity generation and seawater desalination. The proposed hybrid solar chimney power plant (HSCPP) shares the operation of the chimney part and the bi‐directional turbine between the SCPP and CT, allowing alternative operation of the CT during the nighttime and the SCPP during the daytime, and achieving continuous system utilization. The performance of the HSCPP design was validated against baseline models using 1 year of weather data from the city of Aqaba in Jordan. Results revealed that the HSCPP has the potential to produce ~50% electricity (528 MWh/year) higher than the traditional SCPP (365 MWh/year). The annual seawater desalination capacity of the HSCPP was estimated at 138300 m3, which is 1.5 folds higher than the traditional SCPP. The HSCPP reduced the annual CO2 emissions by 40% (~500 tons) compared to traditional SCPP with annual revenue of US$190 000. Furthermore, the results show that the HSCPP is 1.4 times more efficient than the traditional SCPP. The HSCPP achieved a system utilization factor of 0.73% compared to 0.52% for the traditional SCPP. The HSCPP showed promising sustainable and economical technology for the production of electricity and water while reducing the emission of GHG.
Bitcoin spot and futures market microstructure
Authors: Aleti Saketh , Mizrach Bruce
Published: October 2020

We study Bitcoin (BTC) trading at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and four settlement spot exchanges that transact $146 million per day in the BTC/USD pair. Spot market median trade sizes are under $1,300 but exceed $18,000 on the CME. Bid‐ask spreads average 0.0298%. Trade sizes of over $1 million move markets by less than 1%. 2.5% of trades and 15.5% of cancellations on Coinbase take place within 50 ms. Bid‐ask spreads exceed 0.8% for only 226 s. Most executions trade‐through better quotes, with estimated losses of $36 million. The CME leads price discovery. BTC leads Ethereum price adjustment.
Prediction of 7‐year's conversion from subjective cognitive decline to mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Yue Ling , Hu Dan , Zhang Han , Wen Junhao , Wu Ye , Li Wei , Sun Lin , Li Xia , Wang Jinghua , Li Guanjun , Wang Tao , Shen Dinggang , Xiao Shifu
Published: October 2020

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is a high‐risk yet less understood status before developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). This work included 76 SCD individuals with two (baseline and 7 years later) neuropsychological evaluations and a baseline T1‐weighted structural MRI. A machine learning‐based model was trained based on 198 baseline neuroimaging (morphometric) features and a battery of 25 clinical measurements to discriminate 24 progressive SCDs who converted to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at follow‐up from 52 stable SCDs. The SCD progression was satisfactorily predicted with the combined features. A history of stroke, a low education level, a low baseline MoCA score, a shrunk left amygdala, and enlarged white matter at the banks of the right superior temporal sulcus were found to favor the progression. This is to date the largest retrospective study of SCD‐to‐MCI conversion with the longest follow‐up, suggesting predictable far‐future cognitive decline for the risky populations with baseline measures only. These findings provide valuable knowledge to the future neuropathological studies of AD in its prodromal phase.
Vines climbing higher: Risk management for commodity futures markets using a regular vine copula approach
Authors: Li Hemei , Liu Zhenya , Wang Shixuan
Published: October 2020

The volume of trading activity relating to China's commodity futures has grown rapidly over the course of the last decade. To improve risk management in China's commodity futures markets, this paper employs a regular vine (R‐vine) copula model to study the dependence structure of commodity futures and to enhance Value‐at‐Risk (VaR) forecast. In doing so, we find that China's commodity futures market is not centred on one category of commodity futures and the tail dependence between different categories of commodity futures varies significantly. Based on the dependence structure analysed using the R‐vine copula model, we forecast the VaR of individual indices, which are formed of several commodity futures, as well as forecasting the VaR of an equally‐weighted portfolio. Our method can outperform the standard GARCH‐VaR method in terms of VaR backtesting. The tool developed within this study will enable those involved in commodity futures markets to improve their risk management.
Primary chondrosarcoma of the penis in a young patient: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Alhubaishy Bandar , Gakis Georgios , Knoll Thomas
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Primary chondrosarcoma of the penis is rare. We present a case of primary chondrosarcoma of the penis in a young patient.

Case presentation

A 35‐year‐old man presented with a painless mass at the base of his penis for the past 6 months. Incisional biopsy of the lesion revealed a chondrosarcoma. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis ruled out a primary lesion in the bones and soft tissues. The patient rejected total penectomy and decided to start chemoradiotherapy followed by local tumor resection.

Conclusion

Primary chondrosarcoma of the penis is rare. Interdisciplinary management plays an important role in planning the therapy for rare tumors. A combined chemoradiation therapy can be followed by penis‐preserving surgery to improve the quality of life in young patients with proximal penile tumors.
Exploring Cyber Secure and Resilient Approaches with Feature‐Based Product Line Engineering
Authors: Young Bobbi , Wilson Beth
Published: October 2020

The INCOSE Systems Security Engineering Working Group and Product Line Engineering Working Group completed a joint project exploring cyber secure and resilient approaches with feature‐based product line engineering. The project output results are in this INCOSE INSIGHT theme issue (Volume 23, Issue 3). This article introduces the theme issue and the articles exploring the intersection between systems security engineering and product line engineering. The focus includes techniques for implementing systems security as part of a product line design, patterns for product line architectures addressing systems security, and variation management approaches for security and resilient product line products.
Effective Systems Security Requirements in Product Line Engineering
Authors: Adejokun Ademola , Siok Michael F.
Published: October 2020

Requirements engineering for complex software‐intensive systems (and other systems) requires identifying, specifying, analyzing, and reviewing system requirements early in the system development process. However, many cases overlook system security requirements, treating them as an afterthought during this important initial process stage. Missing security requirements for these system types cannot guarantee system integrity. It is not cost efficient to retrofit requirements at later stages to include missing security capabilities specified earlier in‐process. Detailed analysis and understanding of security requirements enable building confidentiality and integrity into our systems. Thus, early process activities must include security requirements engineering.

Product Line Engineering development must guarantee system integrity and assurance for a “family of systems” borne from a common design. Hence, detailed requirements elicitation and specification is important early in the product‐line development and must include security requirements. Further, security requirements must revisit applicability, extension, and new security requirements specified to provide for security coverage of selected features contained within the product line's instances.

This paper describes an approach to security requirements engineering identification and includes introducing a security profile to facilitate developing and evolving a secure product line for software‐intensive systems.
Perceptions of provider’s epistemic authority in response to variant of uncertain significance‐related recommendations
Authors: Makhnoon Sukh , Mork Maureen , Arun Banu , Volk Robert J. , Peterson Susan K.
Published: October 2020

Uncertain genetic information such as variants of uncertain significance (VUS) is often encountered by patients in clinical cancer genetic testing. Although healthcare providers facilitate patient's understanding of VUS‐associated empirical risk and its medical implications, patients’ understanding and perceptions of risk often differ and may be based on subjective evaluations such as their perception of provider's epistemic authority (EA). This study examines the hypothesis that individuals attribute greater EA to genetic counselors (GCs) (compared to gastrointestinal oncologists) and to providers who recommend more active VUS‐related recommendations (compared to inactive). In a factorial experiment, 652 adult participants recruited on Amazon Mechanical Turk were block‐randomized to read one of 10 different types of VUS‐related scenarios in the context of colon cancer (5 recommendation types × 2 provider types). GCs were attributed higher EA than gastrointestinal oncologists (p = <.001). Active recommendations (comprehensive, check back, wrong) were attributed lower EA (M = 3.67, SD = 0.79) compared to the inactive (stand by, disregard) (M = 3.89, SD = 0.67) (p‐value = <.001). The wrong recommendation was attributed lowest EA compared to the four correct recommendations (mean difference = −0.34, −0.45, −0.35, and −0.44, respectively; p = .002), which, when dropped from the analysis, showed no difference between the correct active and inactive recommendations (3.78 vs. 3.89, p = .095). The higher EA attributed to GCs is encouraging and possibly explained by increased public awareness of the genetic counseling profession. The lack of difference in EA attributed to various correct, yet incomplete forms of VUS‐related recommendation indicates that individuals may be unaware of and thus completely rely on providers for complex medical topics like VUS. Communicating VUS‐related uncertainty warrants caution and further research to elucidate best practices and outcomes.
Predictive testing for neurodegenerative diseases in the age of next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Goldman Jill , Xie Shanghong , Green Dina , Naini Ali , Mansukhani Mahesh M. , Marder Karen
Published: October 2020

The availability and cost of next‐generation sequencing (NSG) now allow testing large numbers of genes simultaneously. However, the gold standard for predictive testing has been to test only for a known family mutation or confirmed family disease. The goal of this study was to investigate the psychological impact of predictive testing for autosomal dominant neurodegenerative diseases without a known family mutation using next‐generation sequencing panels compared to single‐gene testing of a known family mutation. Fourteen individuals from families with a known mutation and 10 individuals with unknown family mutations participated. Participants completed questionnaires on demographics, genetic knowledge, and psychological measures of anxiety, depression, perceived personal control, rumination, and intolerance to uncertainty at baseline and 1 and 6 months after receiving results. Decision regret was measured 1 and 6 months after receiving results. Participants completed a modified Huntington disease genetic testing protocol with genetic counseling and neurological and psychological evaluation. Genetic testing of either the known family mutation or an NGS panel of neurodegenerative disease genes was performed. Semi‐structured interviews were performed at 6 months post‐results about their experience. Two‐sample t tests were performed on data collected at each time point to identify significant between‐group differences in demographic variables, baseline psychological scores, and baseline genetic knowledge scores. Within‐group change over time was assessed by a mixed‐effects model. Results of this study indicate that NGS panels for predictive testing for neurodegenerative disease are safe and beneficial to participants when performed within a modified HD protocol. Though significant differences in psychological outcomes were found, these differences may have been driven by genetic results and baseline psychological differences between individuals within the groups. Participants did not regret their decision to test and were largely pleased with the testing protocol.
An instantaneous symmetrical component active power theory with finite control state based model predictive control strategy for distribution STATCOM
Authors: Sahu Gokulananda , Patjoshi Rajesh Kumar , Panigrahi Rakhee
Published: October 2020

In this paper, a novel Instantaneous Symmetrical Component Active Power theory with Finite Control State based Model Predictive Control (ISCAP‐FCS‐MPC) strategy is proposed for Distribution‐Static‐Compensator (DSTATCOM) to enhance the power quality in distribution system. Unlike conventional control schemes, the proposed method does not necessitate modulators for switching pulse creation and the discrete implementation of the system is offered to assess the forthcoming actions of the source currents for each of the eight achievable switching actions. These switching actions are generated with regard to turbulences raised in load as well as source sides. The proposed methodology is justified via MATLAB/Simulink environment and a relative analysis is realized through conventional Proportional Integral based Hysteresis Current Control (PI‐HCC) strategy. Further, an experimental investigation is accomplished with consideration of Real‐Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) incorporated with front end processor Xilinx spartan‐3 XC3S5000.
Sex‐specific peripheral and central responses to stress‐induced depression and treatment in a mouse model
Authors: Deonaraine Kristina K. , Wang Qian , Cheng Haoxiang , Chan Kenny L. , Lin Hsiao‐Yun , Liu Kalena , Parise Lyonna F. , Cathomas Flurin , Leclair Katherine B. , Flanigan Meghan E. , Li Long , Aleyasin Hossein , Guevara Christopher , Hao Ke , Zhang Bin , Russo Scott J. , Wang Jun
Published: October 2020

Major depressive disorder affects ~20% of the world population and is characterized by strong sexual dimorphism with females being two to three times more likely to develop this disorder. Previously, we demonstrated that a combination therapy with dihydrocaffeic acid and malvidin‐glucoside to synergistically target peripheral inflammation and stress‐induced synaptic maladaptation in the brain was effective in alleviating chronic social defeat stress (CSDS)‐induced depression‐like phenotype in male mice. Here, we test the combination therapy in a female CSDS model for depression and compared sex‐specific responses to stress in the periphery and the central nervous system. Similar to male mice, the combination treatment is also effective in promoting resilience against the CSDS‐induced depression‐like behavior in female mice. However, there are sex‐specific differences in peripheral immune responses and differential gene regulation in the prefrontal cortex to chronic stress and to the treatment. These data indicate that while therapeutic approaches to combat stress‐related disorders may be effective in both sexes, the mechanisms underlying these effects differ, emphasizing the need for inclusion of both sexes in preclinical studies using animal models.
Laser‐Induced Differentiation of Human Adipose‐Derived Stem Cells to Temporomandibular Joint Disc Cells
Authors: Karic Vesna , Chandran Rahul , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is an incapacitating disease with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc degenerative changes in patients. Despite several research attempts to find a definitive treatment, there is no evidence of a permanent solution. The objective of the current study was to observe the role of 660 nm diode laser in the differentiation of human adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) to fibroblasts and chondrocytes.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

After irradiation, the morphology, viability, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) proliferation of the ADSCs were analyzed at different time intervals. The differentiation of ADSCs toward fibroblastic and chondrogenic phenotypes was supported using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence at 1‐ and 2‐week post‐irradiation.

Results

More than 90% of viable cells were observed in all experimental groups, with an increase in ATP proliferation. Flow cytometry analyses and immunofluorescence demonstrated the presence of chondrogenic and fibroblastic cell surface markers at 1‐ and 2‐week post‐irradiation.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated methods to induce the differentiation of ADSCs toward fibroblastic and chondrogenic phenotypes with a 660 nm diode laser. The study also proposes a future alternative method of treatment for patients with degenerative TMJ disc disorders and presents a positive prospect in the application of photobiomodulation and ADSCs in the treatment of degenerative TMJ disc. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC