bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Sodium/Nickel Chloride Battery
Authors: Ottaviani Marco , Turconi Alberto , Basso Diego
Published: March 2020

Na–NiCl2thermal batteries have been developed for applications such as electric energy backup, energy storage, and automotive application. A typical Na–NiCl2battery consists of a molten sodium anode, a solid‐state electrolyte (β″‐alumina), and a secondary liquid electrolyte (NaAlCl4) in the cathode side, with NiCl2as the active cathode materials. These systems, operating at high temperatures (about 270–350 °C), provide a battery completely independent of ambient temperature with high specific energy and high specific power. Special characteristics such as relatively low cost, long deep cycle life, long‐term cold‐storage life, abuse resistant, zero electrical self‐discharge, maintenance free, and safety place this technology as the best choice where environmentally strong conditions are present and other secondary battery systems fail.
Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Petit Yann K. , Mourad Eléonore , Freunberger Stefan A.
Published: March 2020

Rechargeable Li–O
2
batteries have gathered enormous attention in the research community for having amongst the highest theoretical energy storage. Realizing the promise, even in part, in practice could produce a device that stores significantly more energy than other rechargeable batteries. Fundamental understanding of the reaction mechanisms is now realized to be key to overcome many challenges. We give a critical overview of the current understanding of the chemistry underpinning the Li–O
2
cell with focus on the cathode and give a perspective on the most important research needs. Since performance and reversibility are often grossly misunderstood, we put emphasis on realistic performances to be achieved by Li–O
2
cells and on means to identify reversibility. Parasitic chemistry is the foremost barrier for reversible cycling and now realized to be predominantly caused by singlet oxygen rather than by the previously thought superoxide or peroxide. This finding profoundly affects any other area of research from reaction mechanisms, to electrolytes and catalysts and dominates future research needs.
Multivalent Charge Carriers
Authors: Bitenc Jan , Ponrouch Alexandre , Dominko Robert , Johansson Patrik , Palacin M. Rosa
Published: March 2020

Rechargeable battery technologies based on metal anodes coupled to the use of multivalent charge carrier ions hold promise of breakthroughs in energy density leapfrogging current state‐of‐the‐art Li‐ion battery technology. Cost and sustainability benefits are both a priori expected from the highly abundant metals employed. Yet, the large know‐how from the Li‐ion battery research field is not directly transferable – both the use of metal anodes and the migration of multivalent ions, within both electrolyte and electrodes, are technological bottlenecks to overcome. The concepts exhibit very different degrees of maturity; for magnesium, proof of concept was achieved in the year 2000 using low potential cathodes and a complex corrosive electrolyte with a narrow electrochemical stability window. Further progress since then has been slow, but the development of non‐nucleophilic electrolytes has paved the way for sulfur and organic polymer cathodes. For calcium, reversible plating and stripping of Ca2+was achieved only recently and now the development targets suitable cathodes enabling full cell proof of concept. Finally, for aluminum batteries, the main track has been somewhat different concepts based on intercalated anions, often in special carbons, from corrosive and chloride‐based electrolytes, but currently other electrolytes as well as true Al metal anodes are in foci. Overall, many and diverse obstacles remains, but the understanding and progress is indeed catching up rapidly. Given the promises and urgent need for next‐generation batteries, a successful multivalent battery technology would be timely.
Applications of Tin Sulfide‐Based Materials in Lithium‐Ion Batteries and Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shan Yuying , Li Yan , Pang Huan
Published: March 2020

SnSx (x = 1, 2) compounds are composed of earth‐abundant elements and are nontoxic and low‐cost materials that have received increasing attention as energy materials over the past decades, owing to their huge potential in batteries. Generally, SnSx materials have excellent chemical stability and high theoretical capacity and reversibility due to their unique 2D‐layered structure and semiconductor properties. As a promising matrix material for storing different alkali metal ions through alloying/dealloying reactions, SnSx compounds have broad electrochemical prospects in batteries. Herein, the structural properties of SnSx materials and their advantages as electrode materials are discussed. Furthermore, detailed accounts of various synthesis methods and applications of SnSx materials in lithium‐ion batteries, sodium‐ion batteries, and other new rechargeable batteries are emphasized. Ultimately, the challenges and opportunities for future research on SnSx compounds are discussed based on the available academic knowledge, including recent scientific advances.
Divergent Palladium‐Catalyzed Tandem Reaction of Cyanomethyl Benzoates with Arylboronic Acids: Synthesis of Oxazoles and Isocoumarins
Authors: Dai Ling , Yu Shuling , Xiong Wenzhang , Chen Zhongyan , Xu Tong , Shao Yinlin , Chen Jiuxi
Published: March 2020

A palladium‐catalyzed tandem reaction of cyanomethyl benzoates with arylboronic acids has been achieved. Substitution at the 2‐position of cyanomethyl benzoates was found to be crucial for the selective synthesis of oxazoles and isocoumarins. Cyanomethyl benzoates afforded 2,4‐diaryloxazoles as products, while 2‐benzoyl‐substituted cyanomethyl benzoates delivered 3‐benzoyl‐4‐aryl‐isocoumarins selectively. Furthermore, a possible mechanism for the selective reaction of cyanomethyl benzoates with arylboronic acids was discussed.

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A missense variant in CREBRF is associated with taller stature in Samoans
Authors: Carlson Jenna C. , Rosenthal Samantha L. , Russell Emily M. , Hawley Nicola L. , Sun Guangyun , Cheng Hong , Naseri Take , Reupena Muagututi‘a S. , Tuitele John , Deka Ranjan , McGarvey Stephen T. , Weeks Daniel E. , Minster Ryan L.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Studies have demonstrated that rs373863828, a missense variant in CREBRF, is associated with a number of anthropometric traits including body mass index (BMI), obesity, percent body fat, hip circumference, and abdominal circumference. Given the biological relationship between height and adiposity, we hypothesized that the effect of this variant on BMI might be due in part to an association of this variant with height.

Methods

We tested the hypothesis that minor allele of rs373863828 is associated with height in a Samoan population in two adult cohorts and in a separate cohort of children (age 5‐18 years old) using linear mixed modeling.

Results

We found evidence of a strong relationship between rs373863828 and greater mean height in Samoan adults (0.77 cm greater average height for each copy of the minor allele) with the same direction of effect in Samoan children.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the missense variant rs373863828 in CREBRF, first identified through an association with larger BMI, may be related to an underlying biological mechanism affecting overall body size including stature.
KTN1 variants and risk for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Luo Xingguang , Guo Xiaoyun , Tan Yunlong , Zhang Yong , Garcia‐Milian Rolando , Wang Zhiren , Shi Jing , Yu Ting , Ji Jiawu , Wang Xiaoping , Xu Jianying , Zhang Huihao , Zuo Lingjun , Lu Lu , Wang Kesheng , Li Chiang‐Shan R.
Published: March 2020

Individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) show gray matter volume (GMV) reduction in the putamen. KTN1 variants may regulate kinectin 1 expression in the putamen and influence putamen structure and function. We aim to test the hypothesis that the KTN1 variants may represent a genetic risk factor of ADHD. Two independent family‐based Caucasian samples were analyzed, including 922 parent–child trios (a total of 2,757 subjects with 924 ADHD children) and 735 parent–child trios (a total of 1,383 subjects with 613 ADHD children). The association between ADHD and a total of 143 KTN1 SNPs was analyzed in the first sample, and the nominally‐significant (p < .05) risk SNPs were classified into independent haplotype blocks. All SNPs, including imputed SNPs within these blocks, and haplotypes across each block, were explored for replication of associations in both samples. The potential biological functions of all risk SNPs were predicted using a series of bioinformatics analyses, their regulatory effects on the putamen volumes were tested, and the KTN1 mRNA expression was examined in three independent human putamen tissue samples. We found that fifteen SNPs were nominally associated with ADHD (p < .05) in the first sample, and three of them remained significant even after correction for multiple testing (1.3 × 10−10 ≤ p ≤ 1.2 × 10−4; α = 2.5 × 10−3). These 15 risk SNPs were located in five haplotype blocks, and 13 SNPs within four of these blocks were associated with ADHD in the second sample. Six haplotypes within these blocks were also significantly (1.2 × 10−7 ≤ p ≤ .009) associated with ADHD in these samples. These risk variants were located in disease‐related transposons and/or transcription‐related functional regions. Major alleles of these risk variants significantly increased putamen volumes. Finally, KTN1 mRNA was significantly expressed in putamen across three independent cohorts. We concluded that the KTN1 variants were significantly associated with ADHD. KTN1 may play a functional role in the development of ADHD.
Quinoidal Azaacenes: 99 % Diradical Character
Authors: Intorp Sebastian N. , Hodecker Manuel , Müller Matthias , Tverskoy Olena , Rosenkranz Marco , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Popov Alexey A. , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Dreuw Andreas , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: March 2020

Quinoidal azaacenes with almost pure diradical character (y=0.95 toy=0.99) were synthesized. All compounds exhibit paramagnetic behavior investigated by EPR and NMR spectroscopy, and SQUID measurements, revealing thermally populated triplet states with an extremely low‐energy gap ΔEST′of 0.58 to 1.0 kcal mol−1. The species are persistent in solution (half‐life≈14–21 h) and in the solid state they are stable for weeks.
CO2‐Induced Spin‐State Switching at Room Temperature in a Monomeric Cobalt(II) Complex with the Porous Nature
Authors: Nakaya Manabu , Kosaka Wataru , Miyasaka Hitoshi , Komatsumaru Yuki , Kawaguchi Shogo , Sugimoto Kunihisa , Zhang Yingjie , Nakamura Masaaki , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya
Published: March 2020

CO2‐responsive spin‐state conversion between high‐spin (HS) and low‐spin (LS) states at room temperature was achieved in a monomeric cobalt(II) complex. A neutral cobalt(II) complex, [CoII(COO‐terpy)2]⋅4 H2O (1⋅4 H2O), stably formed cavities generated via π–π stacking motifs and hydrogen bond networks, resulting in the accommodation of four water molecules. Crystalline 1⋅4 H2O transformed to solvent‐free 1 without loss of porosity by heating to 420 K. Compound 1 exhibited a selective CO2 adsorption via a gate‐open type of the structural modification. Furthermore, the HS/LS transition temperature (T1/2) was able to be tuned by the CO2 pressure over a wide temperature range. Unlike 1 exhibits the HS state at 290 K, the CO2‐accomodated form 1⊃CO2 (P
=110 kPa) was stabilized in the LS state at 290 K, probably caused by a chemical pressure effect by CO2 accommodation, which provides reversible spin‐state conversion by introducing/evacuating CO2 gas into/from 1.
Quantitative characterization of bubble evolution in mineral oil for different air‐injection nozzles
Authors: Mao Ning , Kang Can , Teng Shuang , Mulbah Christian
Published: March 2020

The aim of the present study is to reveal characteristics of a rising bubble in quiescent mineral oil. Three air‐injection nozzles with outlet diameters of 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 mm were selected. Consecutively rising bubbles were produced as air was injected into mineral oil. Bubble visualization was implemented using the high‐speed photography technique. Bubble images captured were processed using an in‐house code to calculate the equivalent bubble diameter and the bubble velocity. The computational fluid dynamics technique was used to simulate flows around the rising bubble. The bubble trajectory, the bubble aspect ratio, and the bubble velocity were compared among the three nozzles. Correlations between nondimensional parameters were constructed. The results show that the bubble motion in mineral oil is stabilized in comparison with that in deionized water. Spherical and ellipsoidal shapes are prevalent. The bubble trajectory is rectilinear, which is independent of the nozzle outlet diameter. After the bubble separates from the nozzle, the equilibrium state is promptly attained. Smooth bubble evolution is ascribed to suppressed wake vortices immediately downstream of the bubble. Small nozzle outlet diameter is responsible for high aspect ratio but small Eötvös number. Values of the Weber number are much smaller than those associated with deionized water. The drag coefficient descends continuously with increasing Reynolds number (Re); the correspondence between the drag coefficient and Re is explicitly sensitive to the nozzle outlet diameter.
The effect of silk fibroin nanoparticles on the morphology, rheology, dynamic mechanical properties, and toughness of poly(lactic acid)/poly(ε‐caprolactone) nanocomposite
Authors: Dadras Chomachayi Masoud , Jalali‐arani Azam , Urreaga Joaquín Martínez
Published: March 2020

The silk fibroin nanoparticles (SFNPs) were extracted from silkworm cocoons and used as a nanofiller in poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) blend. The nanoparticle localization was studied theoretically and experimentally and the effects of SFNP on the morphology, rheology, toughness, and dynamic mechanical properties of the blend were investigated. According to the calculated wetting coefficient, SFNP should be thermodynamically located in the PLA matrix during the melting process. The results of SEM illustrated a common sea‐island structure for the PLA/PCL blend and the incorporation of SFNP reduced the PCL domain sizes from 1.170 ± 92 μm to 794 ± 46 nm. The atomic force microscopy results showed that the nanoparticles are mainly located in the PLA matrix and also, partially at the phase interface with a thickness of layers around 80 nm. The rheological tests displayed the network formation of SFNP in the prepared nanocomposites. The dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that by the addition of SFNP, the storage modulus of neat PLA and PLA/PCL blend were increased by around 57 and 50%, respectively and the glass transition temperatures (Tg) values of PLA and PCL shifted toward each other. Additionally, using SFNP caused a lower water uptake and higher impact strength (~64%) of the blend.
New triepoxy monomer and composites for thermal and corrosion management
Authors: Boga Karteek , Rao Chepuri R. K. , Suresh Kattimuttathu Ittara
Published: March 2020

The denser and faster componented next‐generation electronic devices produce an increased amount of heat during operations. Thermal dissipation is critical to the performance, lifetime, and reliability of electronic devices. With emerging of new applications such as three‐dimensional chip stack architectures, flexible electronics, and light‐emitting diodes, thermal dissipation becomes a challenging problem. In this study, a new resole‐based epoxy monomer is designed. The novelty of the monomer is triepoxy functional soth upon curing (polymerization) the crosslink density is more. Composites of this epoxy with graphene functionalized with amine have been synthesized and characterized by thermal and mechanical methods. The thermal conductivity is increased to 0.6 W/mK by using graphene amine (12 wt%), which suggests that the composites can be useful for encapsulations. The composites are also useful as a coating material for corrosion protection on mild steel (MS). The electrochemical polarization studies on coated specimens showed that the composites are excellent coatings, which exhibited a very low corrosion rate of the order of 10−3–10−4 mm/year.
Impact of the wet spinning parameters on the alpaca‐based polyacrylonitrile composite fibers: Morphology and enhanced mechanical properties study
Authors: Al Faruque Md Abdullah , Remadevi Rechana , Razal Joselito M. , Naebe Maryam
Published: March 2020

The study examined the effect of different wet spinning parameters (e.g., total solid content, coagulation bath concentration, drawing, and stretching) on the morphology and mechanical properties of the wet spun alpaca/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) composite fibers. The alpaca/PAN composite fibers were wet spun using 10, 20, and 30% of alpaca particles along with the PAN polymer. The shear‐thinning or non‐Newtonian flow behavior was observed among the dope solutions with different solid content. The cross‐sectional fiber morphology showed the bean‐shaped characteristic for the control PAN fibers, whereas the alpaca/PAN composite fibers exhibited almost circular shape. “Cavity healing” was observed, where noticeable voids and porous areas were demolished in the cross section of the composite fibers, by changing the total solid content and coagulation bath concentration. Although the control PAN fibers exhibited the highest tenacity with lower fiber diameter, the alpaca/PAN composite fibers showed a gradual deterioration in tenacity while adding alpaca particles into the PAN polymeric matrix. Nevertheless, due to the increment in the total solid content, higher draw ratio, and stretching of the fibers, the tenacity, molecular orientation, and the crystallinity of the composite fibers were increased.
Forced degradation studies of norepinephrine and epinephrine from dental anesthetics: Development of stability‐indicating HPLC method and in silico toxicity evaluation
Authors: Coli Louvisse de Abreu Letícia , Abrahim‐Vieira Bárbara de Azevedo , Mendonça Teles de Souza Alessandra , Pinto Eduardo Costa , Gonçalves Mariana da Silva , Simon Alice , Viana Gil Mendes , Rodrigues Carlos Rangel , Pereira de Sousa Valeria , Cabral Lucio Mendes
Published: March 2020

Injectable solutions containing epinephrine (EPI) and norepinephrine (NE) are not stable, and their degradation is favored mainly by the oxidation of catechol moiety. As studies of these drugs under forced degradation conditions are scarce, herein, we report the identification of their degradation products (DP) in anesthetic formulations by the development of stability‐indicating HPLC method. Finally, the risk assessment of the major degradation products was evaluated using in silico toxicity approach. HPLC method was developed to obtain a higher selectivity allowing adequate elution for both drugs and their DPs. The optimized conditions were developed using a C18 HPLC column, sodium 1‐octanesulfonate, and methanol (80:20, v/v) as mobile phase, with a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min, UV detection at 199 nm. The analysis of standard solutions with these modifications resulted in greater retention time for EPI and NE, which allow the separation of these drugs from their respective DPs. Then, five DPs were identified and analyzed by in silico studies. Most of the DPs showed important alerts as hepatotoxicity and mutagenicity. To the best of our acknowledgment, this is the first report of a stability‐indicating HPLC method that can be used with formulations containing catecholamines.
Board gender diversity, environmental committee and greenhouse gas voluntary disclosures
Authors: Tingbani Ishmael , Chithambo Lyton , Tauringana Venancio , Papanikolaou Nikolaos
Published: March 2020

We explore the impact of gender diversity and environmental committees on greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary disclosures utilising a sample of 215 firms, which are listed on the London Stock Exchange market. We provide strong evidence for a strong positive association between GHG voluntary disclosures and gender diversity, which constitutes an important input to the ongoing debate about the role of women in the boardroom. The governance mechanism of environmental committees is not found to significantly affect GHG disclosures. This adds to the growing empirical evidence in the literature that questions the effectiveness of the current board structures in serving the wider needs of stakeholders and in addressing the relevant issues on climate change. Overall, our results suggest that by being diverse and open to a mixed‐gender governance approach, a firm can better serve the demands of stakeholders and legitimise their green credentials, thus gaining more trust from a broad range of stakeholders other than their shareholders. The noneffectiveness of the environmental committees in enhancing GHG voluntary disclosures demonstrates that firms may not have to directly link the relevant governance mechanism to their disclosure decisions and practices.
Use of penile plethysmography in the court: A review of practices in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States
Authors: Murphy Lisa , Gottfried Emily , DiMario Keana , Perkins Derek , Fedoroff J. Paul
Published: March 2020

Penile plethysmography (PPG) is an objective measure of male sexual arousal in response to the presentation of a series of erotic and neutral stimuli. This measure is now widely recognized as the most reliable means of objectively measuring male sexual arousal to specific stimuli. Many clinicians and researchers consider PPG to be a vital contribution to the assessment and treatment of adult men with paraphilic interests and men who have committed sex crimes. PPG contributes to the clinical assessment of paraphilic interests, appraisal of risk of recidivism, and provides an objective measurement of changes in sexual arousal in response to treatment. There is strong support for the utility of PPG within clinical and legal contexts. This article addresses ways in which PPG has been utilized in the courts as part of expert clinical opinion. History of its use, details regarding admissibility in court, and case law are explored within the legal systems of Canada, the UK and the USA. Support for the inclusion of PPG as expert evidence is provided and judicial misunderstandings on the rationale for PPG use and its clinical utility in forensic assessments are discussed.
C−H Amination via Nitrene Transfer Catalyzed by Mononuclear Non‐Heme Iron‐Dependent Enzymes
Authors: Vila Maria Agustina , Steck Viktoria , Rodriguez Giordano Sonia , Carrera Ignacio , Fasan Rudi
Published: March 2020

Expanding the reaction scope of natural metalloenzymes can provide new opportunities for biocatalysis. Mononuclear non‐heme iron‐dependent enzymes represent a large class of biological catalysts involved in the biosynthesis of natural products and catabolism of xenobiotics, among other processes. Here, we report that several members of this enzyme family, including Rieske dioxygenases as well as α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenases and halogenases, are able to catalyze the intramolecular C−H amination of a sulfonyl azide substrate, thereby exhibiting a promiscuous nitrene transfer reactivity. One of these enzymes, naphthalene dioxygenase (NDO), was further engineered resulting in several active site variants that function as C−H aminases. Furthermore, this enzyme could be applied to execute this non‐native transformation on a gram scale in a bioreactor, thus demonstrating its potential for synthetic applications. These studies highlight the functional versatility of non‐heme iron‐dependent enzymes and pave the way to their further investigation and development as promising biocatalysts for non‐native metal‐catalyzed transformations.
Coil occlusion of a congenital left ventricular aneurysm in a newborn
Authors: Hofbeck Michael , Sieverding Ludger , Grözinger Gerd , Kagan Karl O.
Published: March 2020

We report interventional treatment of a congenital left ventricular aneurysm in a neonate. The aneurysm was detected prenatally at 20 weeks of gestation. Postnatally, the aneurysm increased in size during the first few days of life and therefore we opted for interventional closure to abolish the potential risk of rupture. The aneurysm was entered with a 2.7 French microcatheter, and complete occlusion was achieved by successive placement of three detachable large volume coils (Ruby Coil PenumbraR, Alameda, California). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing interventional occlusion of a congenital ventricular aneurysm in early infancy. Interventional occlusion with detachable large volume coils appears to be an attractive alternative to surgical resection in patients presenting with ventricular outpouchings and narrow base connection to the ventricle.
TAVR outcome after reclassification of aortic valve stenosis by using a hybrid continuity equation that combines computed tomography and echocardiography data
Authors: Weber Marcel , Jaenisch Max , Spilker Marie , Pingel Simon , Schueler Robert , Stundl Anja , Sedaghat Alexander , Hammerstingl Christoph , Mellert Fritz , Grube Eberhard , Nickenig Georg , Werner Nikos , Sinning Jan‐Malte
Published: March 2020

Background

In the continuity equation, assumption of a round‐shaped left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) leads to underestimation of the true aortic valve area in two‐dimensional echocardiography. The current study evaluated whether inclusion of the LVOT area, as measured by computed tomography (CT), reclassifies the degree of aortic stenosis (AS) and assessed the impact on patient outcome after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods and Results

Four hundred and twenty‐two patients with indexed aortic valve area index (AVAi) of <0.6 cm2/m2, assessed by using the classical continuity equation (mean age: 81.5 ± 6.1 years, 51% female, mean left ventricular ejection fraction: 53.2 ± 13.6%), underwent TAVR and were included. After inclusion of the CT measured LVOT area into the continuity equation, the hybrid AVAi led to a reclassification of 30% (n = 128) of patients from severe to moderate AS. Multivariate predictors for reclassification were male sex, lower mean aortic gradient, and lower annulus/LVOT ratio (all p < .01). Reclassified patients had significantly higher sST2 at baseline and higher NT‐proBNP values at baseline and 6 months follow‐up compared to non‐reclassified patients. Acute kidney injury was experienced more frequently after TAVR by reclassified patients, but no significant mortality difference occurred during 2 years of follow‐up.

Conclusion

The hybrid AVAi reclassifies a significant portion of low‐gradient severe AS patients into moderate AS. Reclassified patients showed increased fibrosis and heart failure markers at baseline compared to non‐reclassified patients. But reclassification had no significant impact on mortality up to 2 years after TAVR. Routine assessment of hybrid AVAi seems not to improve further risk stratification of TAVR patients.
Research on TE process fault diagnosis method based on DBN and dropout
Authors: Wei Yuqin , Weng Zhengxin
Published: March 2020

In recent years, deep learning has shown outstanding performance and potential in pattern recognition and feature extraction, which has attracted an increasing amount of attention from engineering researchers and academics. Fault diagnosis methods based on deep learning have also become the focus of a significant amount of research. In this paper, a nonlinear process fault diagnosis and identification method based on DBN‐dropout is proposed. The deep belief network (DBN) has significant advantages in dealing with nonlinear processes, and it can extract the abstract representation of nonlinear process data to build a deep network to achieve the real‐time monitoring of process operations. Dropout technology can reduce overfitting and improve the generalization ability of the model. Afterwards, the Tennessee Eastman (TE) process is employed to analyze the performance of the proposed approach.
On the role of local blockchain network features in cryptocurrency price formation
Authors: Dey Asim K. , Akcora Cuneyt G. , Gel Yulia R. , Kantarcioglu Murat
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Cryptocurrencies and the underpinning blockchain technology have gained unprecedented public attention recently. In contrast to fiat currencies, transactions of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Litecoin, are permanently recorded on distributed ledgers to be seen by the public. As a result, public availability of all cryptocurrency transactions allows us to create a complex network of financial interactions that can be used to study not only the blockchain graph, but also the relationship between various blockchain network features and cryptocurrency risk investment. We introduce a novel concept of chainlets, or blockchain motifs, to utilize this information. Chainlets allow us to evaluate the role of local topological structure of the blockchain on the joint Bitcoin and Litecoin price formation and dynamics. We investigate the predictive Granger causality of chainlets and identify certain types of chainlets that exhibit the highest predictive influence on cryptocurrency price and investment risk. More generally, while statistical aspects of blockchain data analytics remain virtually unexplored, the paper aims to highlight various emerging theoretical, methodological and applied research challenges of blockchain data analysis that will be of interest to the broad statistical community.The Canadian Journal of Statistics48: 561–581; 2020 © 2020 Statistical Society of Canada
Distribution of aromatase in the brain of the African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni: Aromatase expression, but not estrogen receptors, varies with female reproductive‐state
Authors: Maruska Karen P. , Butler Julie M. , Anselmo Chase , Tandukar Ganga
Published: March 2020

Estrogen synthesis and signaling in the brains of vertebrates has pleotropic effects ranging from neurogenesis to modulation of behaviors. The majority of studies on brain‐derived estrogens focus on males, but estrogenic signaling in females likely plays important roles in regulation of reproductive cycling and social behaviors. We used females of the mouth brooding African cichlid fish, Astatotilapia burtoni, to test for reproductive state‐dependent changes in estrogenic signaling capacity within microdissected brain nuclei that are important for social behaviors. Expression levels of the rate‐limiting enzyme aromatase, but not estrogen receptors, measured by qPCR changes across the reproductive cycle. Gravid females that are close to spawning had higher aromatase levels in all brain regions compared to females with lower reproductive potential. This brain aromatase expression was positively correlated with circulating estradiol levels and ovarian readiness. Using chromogenic in situ hybridization we localized aromatase‐expressing cells to ependymal regions bordering the ventricles from the forebrain to the hindbrain, and observed more abundant staining in gravid compared to mouth brooding females in most regions. Staining was most prominent in subpallial telencephalic regions, and diencephalic regions of the preoptic area, thalamus, and hypothalamus, but was also observed in sensory and sensorimotor areas of the midbrain and hindbrain. Aromatase expression was observed in radial glial cells, revealed by co‐localization with the glial marker GFAP and absence of co‐localization with the neuronal marker HuC/D. Collectively these results support the idea that brain‐derived estradiol in females may serve important functions in reproductive state‐dependent physiological and behavioral processes across vertebrates.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Ursodeoxycholic Acid in an Overweight Population With Abnormal Liver Function
Authors: Yoon Seonghae , Lee Heechan , Ji Sang‐Chun , Yoon Seo Hyun , Cho Joo‐Youn , Chung Jae‐Yong
Published: March 2020

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a secondary bile acid that is used to treat primary biliary cholangitis. Although UDCA has a hepatoprotective effect in some diseases, its benefit in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of UDCA in overweight subjects with elevated liver enzymes after multiple administrations of UDCA and compare these changes with vitamin E treatment. Overweight subjects (body mass index, 25‐30 kg/m2) with elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level (40‐200 IU/L) were enrolled. Subjects received one of the following three 8‐week treatments: UDCA 300 mg twice daily UDCA 300 mg twice daily for 4 weeks followed by UDCA 300 mg twice daily and metformin 500 mg twice daily for 4 weeks, and vitamin E 400 IU twice daily. PK and PD (liver function, lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and miR‐122) analyses were performed. Thirty subjects were enrolled; 1 subject withdrew his consent during the study. The PK characteristics were similar to those of healthy volunteers. The ALT and miR‐122 levels decreased in the UDCA groups, whereas the ALT and aspartate aminotransferase levels decreased in the vitamin E group. The lipid profiles and insulin sensitivity did not show significant changes among the groups. There was no serious adverse event, and the safety profiles were similar among the treatment groups. The liver enzyme and miR‐122 levels were decreased by UDCA. Considering UDCA and vitamin E have a hepatoprotective effect and different mechanisms of action, combination therapy could be an option for NAFLD.
Psychological interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder and depression in refugees: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kip Ahlke , Priebe Stefan , Holling Heinz , Morina Nexhmedin
Published: March 2020

Millions of refugees around the globe suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or depression. We conducted a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the efficacy of psychological interventions for PTSD and/or depression in refugees. The meta‐analysis was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42017071384). A search using the Medline, PsycINFO, and PILOTS databases was conducted in January 2019, resulting in 17 RCTs, of which 14 were conducted with adult refugees (1,108 participants) and 3 with young refugees (<18 years; 151 participants). Further inclusion criteria were at least 10 participants completing an active psychological intervention for PTSD, depression, or both and less than 50% of participants receiving concurrent psychotropic drugs. Random effects models showed that active interventions for adult PTSD yielded a medium to large aggregated effect size (g = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.26, 1.28]) at posttreatment when compared with passive and active control conditions. Active interventions for adult depression also produced large controlled effect sizes at posttreatment (g = 0.82; 95% CI [0.24, 1.40]). The effects appeared to persist over the average follow‐up period of 6 months. The findings suggest that psychological interventions can effectively reduce symptoms of both PTSD and depression in adult refugees. However, the considerable heterogeneity between studies indicates that the efficacy may vary significantly. Future studies should aim to explore the substantial heterogeneity in effect sizes between studies with adult refugees. Additionally, more trials with young refugees suffering from PTSD or depression are needed to determine treatment efficacy for this population.
Address faculty bullying with these strategies
Authors: Hollis Leah P.
Published: March 2020

Workplace bullying in higher education is a burgeoning behavior that hurts faculty productivity and department collegiality. And bullying behaviors often perplex academic administrators, who are just starting to formulate policies prohibiting workplace bullying.
Extramedullary multiple myeloma involving the liver and periportal lymph node, diagnosed by EUS‐FNA in a patient with cirrhosis
Authors: Suo Liye , Liu Shujuan , Vega Ivonne , Thrall Michael
Published: March 2020

Extramedullary multiple myeloma (EMM) involving the liver as a focal space‐occupying lesion is very rare, especially in the patients with cirrhosis. Here, we report a case of EMM in the liver and periportal lymph node, diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound guided‐fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA). A 57‐year‐old male patient, with history of cirrhosis, presented with abdominal pain and pancytopenia. The abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a 6.5 cm left hepatic mass with a 1.1 cm malignant‐appearing periportal lymph node and diffuse osseous lesions. The cytology specimens from the hepatic mass and the periportal lymph node were obtained through EUS‐FNA without rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE). The thin‐layer preparations (ThinPrep) showed abundant plasmacytoid cells, which were confirmed to be Kappa‐restricted neoplastic plasma cells by the cell block preparations. Later, his serum level of Kappa light chain was found significantly elevated by flow cytometry, which was identified as monoclonal IgA Kappa light chain by serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) with immunofixation. The patient was diagnosed as IgA multiple myeloma with extramedullary involvement of the liver and periportal lymph node. This is the first case showing the ThinPrep cytomorphologic features of EMM in the liver and periportal lymph node. This case highlights the importance of distinguishing plasma cells from being hepatocytes and lymphocytes on the ThinPrep and also emphasizes the utility of the cell block in the diagnosis of plasma cell neoplasm.
Type 1 diabetes and hearing loss: Audiometric assessment and measurement of circulating levels of soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products
Authors: Al‐Sofiani Mohammed , MacLeod Sara , Ghanim Husam , Stecker Nancy , Hall John , Lippes Howard
Published: March 2020

Background

We examined the hearing function in adults with and without type 1 diabetes (T1D) to investigate whether an association exists between hearing loss and duration of diabetes, haemoglobin A1C level, diabetes complications and levels of select serum and urinary biomarkers.

Methods

We measured pure tone audiometry (PTA) thresholds; serum levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble receptors for advanced glycation end‐product (sRAGE); and urinary isoprostane in 30 adults with T1D (age 43.8 ± 11.4 years). We also measured PTA thresholds in 11 adults without diabetes (age 53 ± 5.5 years).

Results

63.3% of adults with T1D had high‐frequency hearing loss. Among adults with T1D, those with hearing loss were older (48.2 vs 36.2 years old, P < .01), had a longer duration of diabetes (30.7 vs 21.2 years, P = .02), a greater prevalence of peripheral neuropathy (57.9 vs 9.1%, P = .02) and significantly lower median levels of sRAGE (1054.27 vs 1306.83 pg/mL, P = .03) compared to those with normal hearing. Adults with T1D between the ages of 40 and 60 years old, who had diabetes for ≥35 years, had significantly higher PTA thresholds at both 500and 8000 Hz than age‐matched adults without diabetes.

Conclusions

A significant proportion of adults with T1D have high‐frequency hearing loss before age of 60 that is positively associated with age, duration of diabetes and presence of peripheral neuropathy. Our results are in support of previous studies suggesting a potential protective role of sRAGE against AGE toxicity and diabetes complications.
The Duty to Look for Incidental Findings in Imaging Research
Authors: Koplin Julian J. , Turner Martin R. , Savulescu Julian
Published: March 2020

Imaging research regularly yields incidental findings that may have personal medical or reproductive decision‐making significance to study participants. It is widely assumed that researchers have a moral obligation to disclose at least some kinds of incidental findings to research participants. However, it is also a widely held view that researchers do not have a moral obligation to actively look for abnormalities irrelevant to the aims of their study. This paper challenges that assumption.
N‐of‐1 Trials for Closed‐Loop Deep Brain Stimulation Devices
Authors: Stevens Ian , Gilbert Frederic
Published: March 2020

Closed‐loop deep brain stimulation (DBS) devices hold great promise for treating various neurological and psychiatric conditions. Yet while these algorithmic‐based devices provide personalized treatment to each patient, they also present uniquely individualized risks of physiological and psychological harms. These experimental devices are typically tested in randomized controlled trials, which may not be the optimum approach to identifying and assessing phenomenological harms they pose to patients. In this article, we contend that an N‐of‐1 trial design—which is being used ever more frequently to realize the goals of individualized, precision medicine—could provide beneficial phenomenological data about the potential risks of harm to properly inform the use of closed‐loop DBS devices. Data from N‐of‐1 trials may provide patients, as well as their families and other caregivers, with better information on which to base informed choices about pursuing this type of treatment option.
Effects of unrestricted access to flash glucose monitoring in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hansen Klavs Würgler
Published: March 2020

Aims

We assessed adherence and long‐term effects on HbA1c of unrestricted access to flash glucose monitoring (FGM) in a single diabetes centre.

Methods

In this observational study, we reviewed data files for all 411 patients with type 1 diabetes attending our clinic during a 2‐year period. Adherence was reported in those who initiated FGM in our clinic (n = 321). Baseline and final HbA1c were noted for patients who continued FGM for more than 6 months without clinical conditions or interventions at baseline that could interfere with the effect of FGM on glycaemic control (n = 270).

Results

After 2 years, the fraction of patients using FGM increased from 3% to 72%. Adherence to FGM was 88%. Baseline and final HbA1c was median (interquartile range) 63 mmol/mol (56, 74) (7.9% (7.3, 8.9)) and 59 mmol/mol (53, 68) (7.6% (7.0, 8.4)), respectively. The estimated difference final‐baseline HbA1c was −4 mmol/mol (95% CI −5, −3) (−0.4% (−0.5, −0.3)) (P < .001). No significant difference was seen for patients with baseline HbA1c ≤ 7% (53 mmol/mol). The interval from initiation of FGM to final HbA1c was median 562 days (IQR 417, 662). The number of scans/day was median 11 (IQR 8, 13) and correlated negatively with both final and baseline HbA1c but not with change in HbA1c.

Conclusions

Following the introduction of unlimited access, nearly three quarters of the patients were FGM users. Long‐term adherence was good, and HbA1c improved in all patients except in those with optimal glycaemic control at baseline.
Regio‐ and Enantioselective α,γ‐Dialkylation of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes Through Cascade Organocatalysis
Authors: Kutwal Mahesh S. , Padmaja Venkata M. D. , Appayee Chandrakumar
Published: March 2020

The first regio‐ and enantioselective organocatalytic cascade α,γ‐dialkylation of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes is achieved. Substrates scope is demonstrated with a variety of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes and alkylating agents. The absolute configuration of the α,γ‐dialkylated product is confirmed using single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of its carbamate derivative. The practicality of this methodology is showcased by the gram‐scale synthesis. Further application of this methodology for the regio‐ and enantioselective α,γ‐difunctionalization of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes using other electrophiles are currently underway in our laboratory.
Evaluating Community‐Based Coalitions: An Application of Best Practices to Improve Children's Health
Authors: Barnard Courtney
Published: March 2020

This chapter describes how Cook Children's Center for Children's Health (the Center) applies best practices in community‐based coalition evaluation through the use of three guiding frameworks. The author provides an overview of the ten Guiding Principles to Coalition Evaluation, the Spectrum of Prevention, and Results‐Based Accountability, along with highlights of each framework's strengths and limitations. The author also illustrates how the Center integrates these frameworks into their evaluation work and concludes with a discussion of five lessons learned.
Positioning Health Equity Within a Systems Thinking Framework to Evaluate Coalitions and Collaborative Initiatives
Authors: Hilgendorf Amy E. , Moore Travis R. , Wells Alexandra , Stanley Julia
Published: March 2020

Evaluating coalitions and other community‐driven efforts demands new approaches that can account for the complexity of collaborative efforts and inform ongoing innovation, including efforts to advance health equity. In this chapter, we present an evaluation framework developed in partnership between a university and local health coalition that combines systems thinking and equity principles. We first describe the evaluation needs and priorities of coalitions like this one that seeks to work across sectors to advance health equity, and then describe the framework and the ways it can bridge systems thinking and equity in evaluation. We illustrate the framework through our work with a specific coalition and conclude the chapter with lessons learned and future directions for evaluators.
Rapid Turnover of Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Indicated by Monitoring Emergence and Reversion of Signature‐Mutation in Treated Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Huang Qi , Zhou Bin , Cai Dawei , Zong Yuhua , Wu Yaobo , Liu Shi , Mercier Alexandre , Guo Haitao , Hou Jinlin , Colonno Richard , Sun Jian
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) plays a pivotal role in the establishment and persistence of HBV infection. Understanding the turnover time of preexisting cccDNA pools would be helpful in designing strategies to clear HBV by fully blocking the de novo generation of cccDNA.

Approach and Results

In this study, we retrospectively monitored the emergence and reversion of the rtM204I/V mutant, a signature lamivudine resistance (LAMR) mutation serving as a biomarker of cccDNA turnover in liver biopsies and longitudinal serum samples from two clinical trials. Methodologies were optimized to differentially isolate and sequence HBV virion DNA, cccDNA, and HBV RNA from clinical samples. A strong correlation was observed between LAMR composition of cccDNA with that of serum and intrahepatic HBV RNA in paired liver and serum samples (r = 0.96 and 0.90, respectively), suggesting that serum HBV RNA can serve as a surrogate marker of cccDNA genetic composition when liver biopsies are unavailable. LAMR mutations emerged and increased from undetectable to 40%‐90% within 16‐28 weeks in serum HBV RNA from telbivudine‐treated patients experiencing virological breakthrough. Similarly, in lamivudine‐resistant patients who switched to interferon therapy, serum HBV‐RNA population bearing 100% LAMR mutations fully reversed back to wild type within 24‐48 weeks.

Conclusions

The genetic composition dynamics of serum HBV RNA and biopsy cccDNA in treated HBV patients indicates that cccDNA turnover occurs relatively rapidly (several months), offering a possibility of HBV cure with finite therapy through completely blocking cccDNA replenishment.