bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making up the bed: Gravel cleaning as a contribution to nase (Chondrostoma nasus L.) spawning and recruitment success
Authors: Nagel Christoffer , Mueller Melanie , Pander Joachim , Geist Juergen
Published: October 2020

Spawning substrate quality is a major factor influencing the early ontogeny of European nase (Chondrostoma nasus), a target species of conservation.

Analogous to findings from salmonids, restoration of spawning grounds was hypothesized to enhance spawning, development and thus recruitment success of nase, by improving the substrate quality, and subsequently spawning site use, egg infiltration and protection of larvae in the interstitial zones before emergence. These assumptions were tested using a comparative approach by cleaning 50% of the area of each spawning ground in two Bavarian rivers.

Substrate cleaning resulted in an immediate reduction of ~70% fine sediment content with improvements still detectable 2 months later. Spawning nase used the restored areas of spawning grounds preferentially, which was evident in the number of spawning fish and the significantly higher number of eggs laid.

Infiltration of eggs into the interstitial zone was distinctly more successful in the opened interstices of the cleaned spawning substrate, where they were found down to a depth of 20 cm. The same was true for larvae, which could be found down to 30 cm and up to 13 days after hatching. Moreover, higher peaks in the drift density of emerging larvae from the restored spawning substrate were detected (2.5 compared with 1.7 larvae m−3 discharge for the River Mangfall and 0.3 compared with 0.03 larvae m−3 for the River Sims).

These results clearly indicate that gravel cleaning is a successful short‐term restoration tool for nase spawning grounds. It is a quick, cheap and effective method for the conservation management of nase, which may also be applicable to other riverine species with a similiar ecology and incubation time, such as Barbus barbus, Squalius cephalus, Leuciscus leuciscus and Phoxinus phoxinus. This especially holds true if streams lack internal dynamics and suffer from high loads of fine sediment and colmation.
Pathogenesis‐related genes of entomopathogenic fungi
Authors: Shin Tae Young , Lee Mi Rong , Park So Eun , Lee Se Jin , Kim Woo Jin , Kim Jae Su
Published: October 2020

All living things on Earth experience various diseases such as those caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Insects are no exception to this rule, and fungi that cause disease in insects are called entomopathogenic fungi. These fungi have been developed as microbial insecticides and are used to control various pests. Generally, the mode of action of entomopathogenic fungi is divided into the attachment of conidia, germination, penetration, growth, and generation of secondary infectious conidia. In each of these steps, that entomopathogenic fungi use genes in a complex manner (specific or diverse) has been shown by gene knock‐out and RNA‐sequencing analysis. In this review, the information mechanism of entomopathogenic fungi was divided into six steps: (1) attachment of conidia to host, (2) germination and appressorium, (3) penetration, (4) fungal growth in hemolymph, (5) conidia production on host, and (6) transmission and dispersal. The strategy used by the fungi in each step was described at the genetic level. In addition, an approach for studying the mode of action of the fungi is presented.
Sustained Remission of Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis After Discontinuation of Glucocorticoids and Immunosuppressant Therapy: Data From the French Vasculitis Study Group Registry
Authors: Puéchal Xavier , Iudici Michele , Pagnoux Christian , Karras Alexandre , Cohen Pascal , Maurier François , Quéméneur Thomas , Lifermann François , Hamidou Mohamed , Mouthon Luc , Terrier Benjamin , Guillevin Loïc ,   for the French Vasculitis Study Group
Published: October 2020

Objective

Data on sustained remission of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) after discontinuation of therapy (referred to as GPA with sustained remission off‐therapy [SROT]) are scarce. In the present study, SROT among GPA patients from the French Vasculitis Study Group Registry was evaluated to identify factors associated with its occurrence and durability.

Methods

For inclusion of patients in the study, the diagnosis of GPA had to meet the GPA classification criteria defined by the American College of Rheumatology and/or the revised Chapel Hill Consensus Conference nomenclature for vasculitis. SROT was defined as achievement of remission (a Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score of 0) that was sustained for ≥6 consecutive months after having discontinued glucocorticoid (GC) and immunosuppressant treatments. The characteristics of the patients at baseline and treatments received were compared at 3, 5, and 10 years postdiagnosis according to whether or not SROT had been reached and maintained.

Results

Among 795 patients with GPA, 92 GPA patients with SROT at 3 years postdiagnosis were compared to 342 control subjects who had experienced disease relapse and/or were still receiving GCs or immunosuppressants. No baseline differences were found, but patients with SROT at 3 years postdiagnosis had more frequently received intravenous cyclophosphamide as induction therapy compared to control subjects (P = 0.01), with a higher median number of infusions (P = 0.05). At 5 years postdiagnosis, no baseline differences were observed between groups, but patients with SROT at 5 years postdiagnosis had received more cyclophosphamide infusions compared to control subjects (P = 0.03). More patients with SROT had received rituximab as maintenance therapy than control subjects at 3 years and 5 years postdiagnosis (P = 0.09 and P < 0.001, respectively). Of the 74 patients enrolled in the GPA Registry with 10‐year follow‐up data after having received conventional maintenance therapy, 15 (20%) had reached SROT at 3 years, and 5 (7%) maintained SROT at 10 years postdiagnosis.

Conclusion

After conventional therapies, 7% of GPA patients had reached SROT at 10 years postdiagnosis. No baseline vasculitis characteristics distinguished patients who achieved/maintained SROT from those who experienced disease relapse and/or those who continued to receive GCs or immunosuppressant therapy, but patients with SROT had received more intensive induction therapy and rituximab as maintenance therapy more frequently.
Separation in genetic pathogenesis of mutations in FBN1‐TB5 region between autosomal dominant acromelic dysplasia and Marfan syndrome
Authors: Sun Chengjun , Xu Dandan , Pei Zhou , Yang Lin , Qiao Zhongwei , Lu Wei , Luo Feihong , Qiu Zhengqing
Published: October 2020

Mutations in the transforming growth factor β‐binding protein‐like domain 5 (TB5) region of FBN1 can lead to autosomal acromelic dysplasia and Marfan syndrome, which are two diseases with apparently opposite phenotypes. We identified six patients with acromelic dysplasia carrying either the previously reported mutations c.5284G > A (p.Gly1762Ser) and c.5096A > G (p.Tyr1699Cys) or the novel mutation c.5260G > A (p.Gly1754Ser). A systematic review of patients with mutations in the FBN1‐TB5 region showed that acromelic dysplasia is caused only by in‐frame amino acid substitutions. In contrast, truncating mutations in the FBN1‐TB5 have been reported only in Marfan syndrome. Acromelic dysplasia subtypes that share symptoms with Marfan syndrome are associated with FBN1‐TB5 disulfide disruptions, which are also commonly found in Marfan syndrome. These results suggest that the type and location of mutations in the FBN1‐TB5 region determine the clinical spectrum of fibrillinopathy.
Domesticating a food spoilage yeast into an organic acid‐tolerant metabolic engineering host: Lactic acid production by engineered Zygosaccharomyces bailii
Authors: Kuanyshev Nurzhan , Rao Christopher V. , Dien Bruce , Jin Yong‐Su
Published: October 2020

Lactic acid represents an important class of commodity chemicals, which can be produced by microbial cell factories. However, due to the toxicity of lactic acid at lower pH, microbial production requires the usage of neutralizing agents to maintain neutral pH. Zygosaccharomyces bailii, a food spoilage yeast, can grow under the presence of organic acids used as food preservatives. This unique trait of the yeast might be useful for producing lactic acid. With the goal of domesticating the organic acid‐tolerant yeast as a metabolic engineering host, seven Z. bailii strains were screened in a minimal medium with 10 g/L of acetic, or 60 g/L of lactic acid at pH 3. The Z. bailii NRRL Y7239 strain was selected as the most robust strain to be engineered for lactic acid production. By applying a PAN‐ARS‐based CRISPR‐Cas9 system consisting of a transfer RNA promoter and NAT selection, we demonstrated the targeted deletion of ADE2 and site‐specific integration of Rhizopus oryzae ldhA coding for lactate dehydrogenase into the PDC1 locus. The resulting pdc1::ldhA strain produced 35 g/L of lactic acid without ethanol production. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the CRISPR‐Cas9 system in Z. bailii, which can be applied for a fundamental study of the species.
Unpacking teachers’ concerns about CT‐based pedagogy: The case of software education in Korea
Authors: Kim Dongsim , So Hyo‐Jeong , Ryoo DaHyeon
Published: October 2020

We adopt the concerns‐based adoption model as an analytical lens to explore how Korean teachers perceive the mandated changes brought about by the policy to teach software (SW) education. The research questions are (a) How can teachers be grouped according to their perceived SW knowledge/skills and pedagogical beliefs? (b) What are the overall trends in teachers' stages of concern about SW education? and (c) How are the stages of concern about SW education distributed according to the different teacher types? The participants were 207 teachers who completed the online survey. Data were collected about their perceived SW knowledge/skills, pedagogical beliefs, and the seven stages of concern related to SW education. First, K‐means clustering was performed to categorize teachers into four types based on their SW knowledge/skills and pedagogical beliefs. Overall, our findings indicate that 40% of the participants belonged to Type I, who have high SW knowledge/skills and pedagogical beliefs. Second, the concerns profile in Type I showed an M pattern in which they hold both self and impact concerns. Types II–IV showed a similar trend, such that the trends peak at Stage 0 (Awareness) and the intense concerns at the self‐level (Stage 1, Informational and Stage 2, Personal). All types demonstrated a tailing up phenomenon at Stage 6 (Refocusing). This study has implications for the design of concern‐based interventions and makes suggestions to enable teachers to move toward more advanced levels to adopt computational thinking‐based pedagogy in SW education.
Investigating learning outcomes in engineering education with data mining
Authors: Mahboob Khalid , Ali Syed A. , Laila Umm‐e
Published: October 2020

Higher education institutions are catching up on their high competition and challenges are in their analysis productivity. The major challenge is to monitor and analyze student progress through learning outcomes in the curriculum. One of the approaches is the outcome‐based education (OBE) model to deal with learning outcomes. OBE is an integral part of higher education institutions. The OBE system is a key step for accreditation in engineering education. OBE focuses on a student‐centered approach. The OBE is not restricted to well‐defined teaching strategies or direct evaluations but also encompasses indirect evaluations to help students achieve the intended outcomes. In this investigation, engineering students’ data have been analyzed forming three distinct clusters to group students according to best, average, and worst achievement of learning outcomes in two different computer engineering courses generally taught in the early semesters in higher education institutions. A data mining clustering approach is used to segment students using k‐means and k‐medoids techniques. Clustering can be regarded as a data modeling technique that provides summary data that interact with multiple disciplines and plays an important role in a wide range of computer applications. The investigation comprises of two parts for analysis: one part of the analysis is the mid‐term and final exam scores, the quiz and assignment results, the laboratory results, and the evaluation, together with the learning outcomes achieved, and the other part is the comparative analysis of learning outcomes achieved in both engineering courses clustering with the best, average, and worst attainments, respectively. In this investigation, the results obtained from clustering data points show that the same group of clusters with the best, average, and worst learning outcomes achievements formed using both k‐means and k‐medoid clustering for one course. On the other hand, a diverse group of clusters with the best, average, and worst learning outcomes achievements formed using both k‐means and k‐medoids clustering for another course.
Beginning counsellors’ experiences working with children who exhibit externalised behaviours
Authors: Guest Jessie D. , Wymer Brooke C. , Deaton Jennifer D. , Hipp Christopher J. , Newton Therese L. , Ohrt Jonathan H.
Published: October 2020

Counsellors who work with children exhibiting externalised behaviours may struggle to maintain therapeutic presence. Challenging client behaviours may trigger countertransference, thus influencing counsellors’ presence in session. In this study, we examined the experiences of beginning counsellors working with children who exhibit externalised behaviours in counselling sessions. We used thematic analysis and identified six emergent themes related to countertransference.
Tackling COVID‐19 Using Remdesivir and Favipiravir as Therapeutic Options
Authors: Sreekanth Reddy Obireddy , Lai Wing‐Fu
Published: October 2020

The human world is currently influenced largely by the outbreak of pandemic COVID‐19. At this moment, most researchers focus on developing treatment strategies and measures to work against COVID‐19. Treatment strategies specific for COVID‐19 are lacking. This article provides an overview of the life cycle and routes of transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2. The therapeutic effects of two drugs [i. e., remdesivir (RDV) and favipiravir (FPV)] which can potentially tackle COVID‐19 are discussed based on current published data. This review can serve as a reference for future studies.
Donor cell‐derived chronic myelomonocytic leukemia presenting after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Miller Kevin C. , Abdel Rahman Zaid H. , Robetorye Ryan S. , Foran James M.
Published: October 2020

Donor cell leukemia is a very rare cause of relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT). Herein, we describe an unprecedented case of donor cell‐derived chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) presenting seven years after a 51‐year‐old man received a matched‐related alloHCT from his 59‐year‐old brother for T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Recent Progress in CO Hydrogenation over Bimetallic Catalysts for Higher Alcohol Synthesis
Authors: Khan Wasim U. , Baharudin Luqmanulhakim , Choi Jungkyu , Yip Alex C. K.
Published: October 2020

The conversion of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, generally called synthesis gas, to higher alcohols has gained recent attention. Alcohols can be either transformed into other value‐added products such as ethers or used directly as fuels or fuel additives. Various types of catalysts have been prepared and investigated for the hydrogenation of CO to higher alcohols and improvements are in progress to find a robust catalyst with high activity and selectivity towards higher alcohols. In particular, the role of the bimetallic catalyst having two active sites contributing efficiently to higher alcohol synthesis has been a focus in recent years. Herein, the recent development in bimetallic catalyst preparation and the investigations of the reaction mechanism in CO hydrogenation have been reviewed.
Electroanalytical Assessment of the Oxygen Permeability at the Gas‐Solid‐Liquid Interface in Polymer‐based Materials for Lens Applications
Authors: Jarboui Ahmed , Holade Yaovi , Mericq Jean‐Pierre , Charmette Christophe , Thami Thierry , Biermans Peter , Tingry Sophie , Bouyer Denis
Published: October 2020

The design of efficient electrochemical setups to precisely and timely quantify the oxygen permeability, which dictates how the lens let O2 to reach the eye, is important for the development lens‐based materials. We report herein a home‐made electro‐analytical platform made of a 3D‐printed diffusion electrochemical cell to assess this parameter. The design overcomes edge effects and allows analysis under conditions similar to lens wear where the liquid is in contact to the inner surface while the gaseous O2 is in contact with the outer surface. The testing of three types of contact lens materials (flexible polymer, rigid polymer, and gel‐type) showed that the O2 permeability can be fairly well evaluated by the chronoamperometry study of oxygen reduction reaction. Under conditions similar to those of lens wear, our findings showed that the measurement error was 6 %, which offer an alternative to the classic gas‐to‐gas method for O2 permeability determination.
On‐demand mobile health infrastructures to allow comprehensive remote atrial fibrillation and risk factor management through teleconsultation
Authors: Hermans Astrid N. L. , van der Velden Rachel M. J. , Gawalko Monika , Verhaert Dominique V. M. , Desteghe Lien , Duncker David , Manninger Martin , Heidbuchel Hein , Pisters Ron , Hemels Martin , Pison Laurent , Sohaib Afzal , Sultan Arian , Steven Daniel , Wijtvliet Petra , Tieleman Robert , Gupta Dhiraj , Dobrev Dobromir , Svennberg Emma , Crijns Harry J. G. M. , Pluymaekers Nikki A. H. A. , Hendriks Jeroen M. , Linz Dominik ,   TeleCheck‐AF investigators
Published: October 2020

Background

Although novel teleconsultation solutions can deliver remote situations that are relatively similar to face‐to‐face interaction, remote assessment of heart rate and rhythm as well as risk factors remains challenging in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Hypothesis.

Mobile health (mHealth) solutions can support remote AF management.

Methods

Herein, we discuss available mHealth tools and strategies on how to incorporate the remote assessment of heart rate, rhythm and risk factors to allow comprehensive AF management through teleconsultation.

Results

Particularly, in the light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, there is decreased capacity to see patients in the outpatient clinic and mHealth has become an important component of many AF outpatient clinics. Several validated mHealth solutions are available for remote heart rate and rhythm monitoring as well as for risk factor assessment. mHealth technologies can be used for (semi‐)continuous longitudinal monitoring or for short‐term on‐demand monitoring, dependent on the respective requirements and clinical scenarios. As a possible solution to improve remote AF care through teleconsultation, we introduce the on‐demand TeleCheck‐AF mHealth approach that allows remote app‐based assessment of heart rate and rhythm around teleconsultations, which has been developed and implemented during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Europe.

Conclusion

Large scale international mHealth projects, such as TeleCheck‐AF, will provide insight into the additional value and potential limitations of mHealth strategies to remotely manage AF patients. Such mHealth infrastructures may be well suited within an integrated AF‐clinic, which may require redesign of practice and reform of health care systems.
Assessing the Sorptive Ability of Synthesized Graphene Oxide‐Metal Oxide Composite to Remove Certain Lanthanides
Authors: Sheha Reda R. , Mekawy Zakaria A. , Someda Hanan H. , Shehata Mohamed K. K. , Mahmoud Wagiha H.
Published: October 2020

A metal oxide decorated graphene oxide composite (GO‐MO) is prepared via fixation of manganese dioxide (MnO2) on the surface of graphene oxide (GO). The composite is used as a sorbent for the separation of europium and cerium ions from aqueous solutions. The synthesized materials are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The role of different variables on the sorptive ability of these materials is studied. Two simplified kinetic models, pseudo‐first order and pseudo‐second order, are applied to describe the kinetics of the sorption process. It is found that sorption of Eu(III) and Ce(III) ions on the synthesized sorbents could be described more favorably by the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. Sorption data are analyzed with Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. Desorption of europium and cerium ions from loaded sorbents is carried out using different eluents. Eu(III) ions are easily desorbed from loaded samples using 0.01 m EDTA while Ce(III) ions are easily eluted using 0.01 m AlCl3. The obtained data clarify that the synthesized composite could be considered as a promising candidate for preconcentration and separation of some lanthanide elements from aqueous solutions.
Corticocuneate projections are altered after spinal cord dorsal column lesions in New World monkeys
Authors: Liao Chia‐Chi , Qi Hui‐Xin , Reed Jamie L. , Jeoung Ha‐Seul , Kaas Jon H.
Published: October 2020

Recovery of responses to cutaneous stimuli in the area 3b hand cortex of monkeys after dorsal column lesions (DCLs) in the cervical spinal cord relies on neural rewiring in the cuneate nucleus (Cu) over time. To examine whether the corticocuneate projections are modified during recoveries after the DCL, we injected cholera toxin subunit B into the hand representation in Cu to label the cortical neurons after various recovery times, and related results to the recovery of neural responses in the affected area 3b hand cortex. In normal New World monkeys, labeled neurons were predominately distributed in the hand regions of contralateral areas 3b, 3a, 1 and 2, parietal ventral (PV), secondary somatosensory cortex (S2), and primary motor cortex (M1), with similar distributions in the ipsilateral cortex in significantly smaller numbers. In monkeys with short‐term recoveries, the area 3b hand neurons were unresponsive or responded weakly to touch on the hand, while the cortical labeling pattern was largely unchanged. After longer recoveries, the area 3b hand neurons remained unresponsive, or responded to touch on the hand or somatotopically abnormal parts, depending on the lesion extent. The distributions of cortical labeled neurons were much more widespread than the normal pattern in both hemispheres, especially when lesions were incomplete. The proportion of labeled neurons in the contralateral area 3b hand cortex was not correlated with the functional reactivation in the area 3b hand cortex. Overall, our findings indicated that corticocuneate inputs increase during the functional recovery, but their functional role is uncertain.
Current status on microsatellite instability, prognosis and adjuvant therapy in colon cancer: A nationwide survey of medical oncologists, colorectal surgeons and gastrointestinal pathologists
Authors: Toh James W. T. , Mahajan Hema , Chapuis Pierre , Spring Kevin
Published: October 2020

Background

There is significant variation in attitude both towards the role of microsatellite instability (MSI) in predicting prognosis, and towards its role in guiding which Stage II colon cancer patients may benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

Aim

To examine the current status of specialist attitudes towards MSI in guiding prognosis and adjuvant therapy in stage II colon cancer.

Methods

The Pathology in Colon Cancer, Prognosis and Uptake of Adjuvant Therapy (PiCC UP) Australia and New Zealand questionnaire was distributed to colorectal surgeons, medical oncologists and pathologists after institutional board approval. A 5‐scale Likert score was used to assess attitudes towards 23 pathological features for prognosis and 18 features for adjuvant therapy. Data were analysed using a rating scale and graded response model in item response theory (IRT) on STATA (Stata MP, version 15; StataCorp LP).

Results

164 specialists (45 oncologists, 86 surgeons and 33 pathologists) participated. 80.5% regularly attended colorectal multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings. 89.63% and 59.26% of specialists reported that MSI status was likely or definitely to influence prognosis in colon cancer and recommendations for adjuvant therapy in Stage II colon cancer respectively.

IRT modelling was achieved in 17 pathological features for prognosis. MSI IRT score was 4.47 (95% CI: 4.05‐4.68). IRT modelling was achieved in 10 pathological features for adjuvant therapy. MSI IRT score was 3.62 (2.89‐4.15). MSI ranked 10 (of 17) in order of importance in determining prognosis and ranked three (of 10) in guiding adjuvant therapy.

Conclusion

MSI status is considered an important biomarker when selecting patients for adjuvant therapy in Stage II colon cancer. MSI is also considered useful in prognostication of colon cancer. MSI status was ranked similar to the tumour grade of differentiation and the presence of perineural invasion.
Photoanodes for Aqueous Solar Cells: Exploring Additives and Formulations Starting from a Commercial TiO2 Paste
Authors: Fagiolari Lucia , Bonomo Matteo , Cognetti Alessio , Meligrana Giuseppina , Gerbaldi Claudio , Barolo Claudia , Bella Federico
Published: October 2020

Whereas the commercialization of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is finally proceeding taking advantage of their low cost and tunable optical features, such as colour and transparency for both indoor and building‐integrated applications, the corresponding aqueous counterpart is still at its infancy. As the TiO2 electrode is a fundamental component for hybrid solar cells, this work investigates the effect of different molecular (α‐terpineol, propylene carbonate) and polymeric (polyethylene oxide, polyethylene glycol, carboxymethyl cellulose and xanthan gum) additives that can be introduced into a commercial TiO2 paste for for screen‐printing (or doctor blade). Among all, the addition of polyethylene glycol leads to the best cell performances, with markedly increased short‐circuit current density (+18 %) and power conversion efficiency (+48 %) with respect to the pristine (commercial) counterpart. When further explored at different concentration levels, electrodes fabricated from polyethylene glycol‐based pastes show different morphologies, thicknesses and performances, which are investigated through (photo)electrochemical, structural, physical‐chemical and microscopic techniques.
Sudden blast phase in pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia‐chronic phase with abnormal lymphoid blasts detected by flow cytometry at diagnosis: Can it be considered a warning sign?
Authors: Vijayasekharan Kalasekhar , Chatterjee Gaurav , Ramanathan Subramaniam , Narula Gaurav , Tembhare Prashant , Subramanian Papagudi G. , Patkar Nikhil , Gujral Sumeet , Shetty Dhanlaxmi , Banavali Shripad
Published: October 2020

Background

Inconclusive knowledge persists regarding the course of chronic myeloid leukemia‐chronic phase (CML‐CP) patients with detectable abnormal blasts by flow‐cytometry at diagnosis. The 2016 WHO classification is not specific regarding sub‐classification of CML with <10% abnormal B‐lymphoid blasts (ABLB), and suggests these patients often show rapid progression. We report the clinical course of pediatric CML‐CP patients who had detectable abnormal blasts by flow‐cytometry at baseline.

Methods

Retrospective audit of all pediatric CML patients between January 2013 and December 2017 were included. Their clinical presentation, demographic profile, and treatment outcomes were extracted from electronic medical records. Some of these patients got flow‐cytometry done by default, though it was not a routine part of diagnostic CML marrow studies.

Results

Amongst 65 pediatric CML patients, flow‐cytometry at initial diagnosis was available in 15 (CP‐12; AP‐3). Of the 12 CML‐CP patients, 10 (83%) had abnormal flow‐cytometric findings—5 (50%) with mixed lineage blasts (4‐B/Myeloid, 1‐B/T/Myeloid), and myeloid lineage blasts in the remaining 5 (50%). At a median follow‐up of 26 months (range: 9–34 months), 3/5 patients with ABLB at diagnosis progressed to frank blast crisis (2 B‐cell; 1 Mixed lineage). None among the five patients with diagnostic myeloid‐alone aberrant blasts progressed to blast crisis. Imatinib resistant mutation was also found in 3/5 (60%) CML‐CP patients with these ABLB at baseline.

Conclusions

Although a retrospective study with limited sample size, presence of ABLB detected on flow‐cytometry in CML‐CP patients, had a noticeable early conversion to CML‐BC in our cohort. Incorporation of flow‐cytometry in diagnostic work‐up can provide useful insight regarding the behavior of pediatric CML‐CP patients and guide therapy.
Enhanced Electrochemistry of Carbon Supported Functionalized Nanocomposite Cathode for Aqueous Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Willenberg Shane , Ross Natasha
Published: October 2020

A novel carbon supported LiMn2O4 nanocomposite framework has been explored to resolve multiple barriers associated with lithium manganese oxide cathodes for aqueous LIB systems. Here, we have successfully synthesized an architecturally stable AlF3−LiMn2O4/rGO composite with improved electron transfer kinetics and CV peak currents proportional to the square root of scan rate. The synergy between graphene and aluminium trifluoride enhances the intrinsic electrochemical properties of pristine LiMn2O4 (LMO) and reduced Mn+3 dissolution. The unique composite effectively reduced Li+ diffusion distances with less polarization as it effectively accommodates the structural transformation during Li+ ion charge and discharge. The electrochemical interrogation revealed faster charge transportation and decrease in charge transfer resistance due to inhibition of the pronounced pile‐up of Li+ ions and undesired Mn3+ ions on the surfaces. The electrochemical performances were tested in LiNO3 aqueous electrolyte and the cell delivered a capacity of 90 mA h g−1 based on the total weight of the active electrode materials. This aqueous LIB cathode system provides a promising alternative for safe, cost‐effective and scalable energy storage with tolerance against misuse.
A survey on recent optimal techniques for securing unmanned aerial vehicles applications
Authors: Syed Farheen , Gupta Sachin Kumar , Hamood Alsamhi Saeed , Rashid Mamoon , Liu Xuan
Published: October 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or Drones technology has a huge potential for supporting different efficient solutions for the smart applications in our world. The applications include smart things, smart transportation, smart cities, smart healthcare, smart personal care, smart house, smart industries, and so on. Due to the sensitive applications of UAVs, the security has become a major concern, and therefore, efficient techniques are required to protect captured data from hackers and the fictitious activities from illegitimate users. Machine learning (ML) techniques play a vital role in improving UAVs' security intelligently, while blockchain is recent technology for decentralized UAVs and security. Furthermore, watermarking guarantees digital media to be authenticated, protected, and copyright. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive survey of optimal techniques, which are used for securing UAVs applications in terms of blockchain, ML, and watermarking. Furthermore, we introduce each technique with the advantages and suitably used for securing UAVs collaboration applications. This survey contributes to a better understanding of the blockchain, ML, and watermarking techniques for securing UAVs and sheds new light on challenges and opportunities on subject applications.
Local pressure‐correction for the Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Kaya Utku , Becker Roland , Braack Malte
Published: October 2020

This article presents a novel local pressure correction method for incompressible fluid flows and documents a numerical study of this method. Pressure correction methods decouple the velocity and pressure components of the time‐dependent Navier‐Stokes equations and lead to a sequence of elliptic partial differential equations for both components instead of a saddle point problem. In some situations, the equations for the velocity components are solved explicitly (with time step restrictions) and thus the elliptic pressure problem remains to be the most expensive step. Here, we employ a multiscale procedure for the solution of the Poisson problem related to pressure. The procedure replaces the global Poisson problem by local Poisson problems on subregions. We propose a new Robin‐type boundary condition design for the local Poisson problems, which contains a coarse approximation of the global Poisson problem. Accordingly, no further communication between subregions is necessary and the method is perfectly adapted for parallel computations. Numerical experiments regarding a known analytical solution and flow around cylinder benchmarks show the effectivity of this new local pressure correction method.
A new framework to construct third‐order weighted essentially nonoscillatory weights using weight limiter functions
Authors: Parvin Sabana , Kumar Dubey Ritesh
Published: October 2020

A new simple and generic framework is proposed to construct nonlinear weights for third‐order weighted essentially nonoscillatory scheme (WENO) reconstructions. It is done by imposing necessary conditions on nonlinear weights to get a nonoscillatory WENO scheme. These conditions give further insight into the required structure of nonlinear weights to design third‐order WENO schemes. This new framework for WENO weights is completely different from the existing prevailing approaches. Several nonlinear weights using different functions of a smoothness parameter (termed as weight limiter functions) are proposed and analyzed. These new weights by construction guarantee for third‐order accurate nonoscillatory scheme. Numerical results for various benchmark test problems are given and compared with WENO‐JS3 wnd WENO‐Z3 scheme. Computational results show that WENO schemes using proposed weights achieves third‐order accuracy for smooth solution and resolves discontinuities without spurious oscillations.
Sedimentary and geochronological studies on tuff levels from Triassic strata in the Nanzhao Basin, North Qinling Orogenic Belt, and their geological significance
Authors: Liu Xi , Han Wei , Zhang Qiao , Li Yanguang , Johnson Lukman , Ma Yao , Li Wenhou
Published: October 2020

The Ordos Basin is the second largest oil‐ and gas‐bearing sedimentary basin in China. This basin formed during the Triassic. At present, the location of the basin margins is still highly debated in the literature, especially its eastern and southern margins. The Triassic Yanchang Formation extensively outcrops in the Ordos Basin, and its distribution can provide a significant constraint on the basin extension. In this study, we focus on the measurement and correlation of the Middle–Late Triassic sedimentary strata from Nanzhao Basin, which is located to the south‐east of the present‐day Ordos Basin. The results of this study indicate that the sedimentary sequence of Triassic strata from Taizishan Formation and Taishanmiao Formation in the Nanzhao Basin is comparable with that of the Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin. Tuff intercalations in clastic rocks from Taizishan Formation in the Nanzhao Basin were studied with zircon chronology and Hf isotope analysis. The results show that the tuff sample has concord U–Pb age of 234.6 ± 1.5 Ma, which is considered as the boundary age between Middle and Late Triassic with a similar age in respect to that of the Yanchang Formation. The TDM2 values for the studied sample range from 1.0 to 1.4 Ga with the peak at 1.2 Ga, which is also similar to TDM2 values for tuffs encountered in the Yanchang Formation. On the other hand, the corresponding εHf(t) values of tuff in Nanzhao Basin range from −1.1 to +4.2 with an average of 1.2 and peak at 2, which are different with respect to those of the Yanchang Formation. According to the geochronological data, the tuffs in Nanzhao Basin might be mainly derived from a depleted‐mantle source from Late Meso‐Proterozoic period, and contaminated by a continental Early–Middle Meso‐Proterozoic crust. Therefore, we suggest that in Middle–Late Triassic, the southeastern margin of the Ordos Basin may have extended to Nanzhao area and the different εHf(t) values between tuffs in Nanzhao Basin and present Ordos Basin may be the result of scissor‐type collision of North China Block and South China Block during the Triassic.
Magmatic gap associated with stepwise arc‐continent collision during the subduction of Banggong‐Nujiang Tethys Ocean: Evidence from Late Jurassic bimodal magmas
Authors: Shao Hua‐Sheng , Yuan Guo‐Li , Liu Zhi‐Bo , Song Yang , Huang Ran‐Xiao
Published: October 2020

The magmatic suites in the southern margin of South Qiangtang Terrane (SQT) provide important clues to the process of northward subduction of the Banggong‐Nujiang Tethys Ocean (BNTO) and its geodynamic evolution. Previous studies identified a magmatic gap from Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous (ca. 150–130 Ma) in the southern margin of SQT. Although the gap is generally correlated with the process related to BNTO subduction, the previous models on this remain equivocal. In this study, we investigated a suite of bimodal magmatic rocks newly recognized in the Rigenco area of SQT, including gabbros and granodiorites which were dated at 151.7 ± 3.8 Ma and 150.0 ± 2.0 Ma respectively. Based on geochemical and isotopic analyses, it is inferred that the gabbroic magmas were derived from a sub‐arc mantle source enriched by metasomatism of voluminous slab‐derived and crustal compositions, and that the granodiorites were derived from sub‐arc juvenile lower crust. Combining the petrogenesis of gabbros and granodiorites, it is proposed that the bimodal magmas were produced under a tectonic setting of general compression with local extension. A detailed evaluation of the tectonic setting of the magmatic bimodal suite suggests crustal thickening at ca. 150 Ma and that the BNTO involved multiple arcs and sub‐basins. A new model of arc‐SQT collision is proposed to account for the magmatic gap which commenced at ca. 150 Ma. The model of arc–continent collision in this case can well explain the present distribution and occurrence of magmatic rocks of late Jurassic age in the southern margin of the SQT, especially the magmatic gap. Our discovery of Late Jurassic bimodal rocks provides a critical evidence for step‐wise arc–continent collision during BNTO subduction, and contributes to the understanding of the magmatic gap in SQT and the evolution of BNTO.
Childhood trauma is associated with elevated anhedonia and altered core reward circuitry in major depression patients and controls
Authors: Fan Jie , Liu Wanting , Xia Jie , Li Sihui , Gao Feng , Zhu Jiang , Han Yan , Zhou Huan , Liao Haiyan , Yi Jinyao , Tan Changlian , Zhu Xiongzhao
Published: October 2020

Childhood trauma (CT) is a well‐established risk factor for major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the underlying mechanism linking CT and MDD remains not fully understood. The present study tested the hypothesis that CT have effects on specific types of anhedonia in depression via reward system. To do so, we evaluated different aspects of anhedonia and resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) in reward system among 66 patients with MDD (44 with moderate‐to‐severe and 22 with no or low CT), and 57 healthy controls (HC; 23 with moderate‐to‐severe and 34 with no or low CT). Results showed that MDD patients with moderate‐to‐severe CT suffered more severe state anhedonic depression than patients with no or low level of CT. Individuals with moderate‐to‐severe CT, irrespective of MDD diagnosis, had elevated physical, social and anticipatory but not consummatory trait anhedonia, and demonstrated decreased left nucleus accumbens (NAcc)‐right orbital frontal cortex (OFC) and left ventral caudate‐left OFC connectivity compared to those with no or low exposure. Left NAcc‐right OFC connectivity mediated relationship between CT and state anhedonia in MDD. The total altered ventral striatum (VS)‐OFC connectivity mediated links between CT and physical trait anhedonia in HC. These findings highlight specific types of anhedonia and the core reward system as targets of CT. Blunted hedonic responses via decreased coupling within core reward system may be involved in the mechanism of depression following CT. Implications for clinical interventions are also discussed.
Clinical significance of tumor‐associated immune cells in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kikuchi Masahiro , Yamashita Daisuke , Hara Shigeo , Takebayashi Shinji , Hamaguchi Kiyomi , Mizuno Keisuke , Omori Koichi , Shinohara Shogo
Published: October 2020

Background

The expression of PD‐L1 in tumor cells and infiltration of tumor‐associated immune cells (TAICs) might reflect the tumor biology of head and neck cancer. We aimed to characterize their prognostic roles in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs).

Methods

We enrolled 103 OSCC patients who underwent definitive surgery. Immune expression levels of PD‐L1, PD‐1, CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD68 were assessed in surgically resected specimens. We evaluated the effects of immune marker expression and localization on survival outcomes.

Results

Multivariate analysis results adjusted by the pathological stage, resection margin, and extracapsular extension showed that a high number of PD‐1+ TAICs and intratumoral CD68+ TAICs were independent positive and negative prognostic markers (hazard ratio: 0.20 and 4.15, respectively; P = .02 and .01, respectively).

Conclusion

PD‐1+ TAICs in the tumor microenvironment and CD68+ TAICs in the intratumoral area could act as novel biomarkers for predicting overall survival outcomes in OSCC patients.
Heat transfer enhancement in a cubical cavity filled with a hybrid nanofluid
Authors: Ghennai Ahlam , Bessaїh Rachid
Published: October 2020

Mixed convection heat transfer in a cubical cavity with an isothermally heated blockage inside filled with a hybrid nanofluid (HBNF) is numerically studied. The natural convection is created by the temperature difference between the hot block and the cold lateral walls, while the forced convection is generated by moving the upper wall. The influence of some variables, like the aspect ratio (0.1 ≤ r ≤ 0.5), Richardson number (0 ≤ Ri≤ 20), Reynolds number (50 ≤ Re ≤ 200), volume concentration of nanoparticles (0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.06), and the concentration ratio (2:8, 5:5, and 8:2) on the flow field and heat transfer is analyzed. A comparison between hybrid and mono nanofluids (NFs) is realized to investigate the energy transport enhancement. Results show that the increase of each parameter causes an increase of average Nusselt numberNuavgand improves the heat transfer; besides the use of HBNF gives betterNuavgvalues. Three correlations of the effect ofr, ϕ,Ri, andReonNuavgare determined for both hybrid and mono NFs.
Effect of suction on the stagnation point flow of hybrid nanofluid toward a permeable and vertical Riga plate
Authors: Khashiʼie Najiyah S. , Arifin Norihan M. , Pop Ioan , Wahid Nur S.
Published: October 2020

The application of appropriate wall mass suction (transpiration) has been reported as the key factor to generate steady solutions in the opposing flow (shrinking or opposing buoyancy). This study features the impact of the suction and mixed convection parameters in the stagnation point flow toward a permeable Riga plate. Due to the capability of hybrid nanofluids in enhancing the heat transfer performance, the combination of copper (Cu) and alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles are used, including water as the base fluid. It appears that the dual solutions are potential in this problem with the negligence of the suction parameter. However, this transpiration effect is efficient in delaying the separation process of the hybrid nanofluid flow and enhancing the heat transfer rate. The heat transfer rate augments with the addition of and . The increment of heat transfer rate is reported between 34% and 39% when 30% of the suction parameter is applied. Besides, the addition of the mixed convection parameter from the opposing to assisting flow enlarges the velocity profile while reduces the temperature profile. The reduction of temperature distribution with an upsurge of suction, mixed convection, and EMHD parameters implies the operating heat transfer process.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2: A protective factor in regulating disease virulence of SARS‐COV‐2
Authors: Mariappan Vignesh , S. R. Rao , Balakrishna Pillai Agieshkumar
Published: October 2020

Novel SARS‐CoV‐2 named due to its close homology with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) is the etiologic agent for the ongoing pandemic outbreak causing loss of life and severe economic burden globally. The virus is believed to be evolved in a recombined form of bat and animal coronavirus with the capacity to infect human host using the ACE2 receptors as an entry point. Though the disease pathogenesis is not elucidated completely, the virus‐mediated host response retains a similar pattern to that of previous SARS‐CoV. Based on the available trend it is assumed that pediatric groups are less susceptible to the coronavirus. Understanding the possible mechanism that protects the children from hyper‐inflammatory or disease severity could lead to better treatment modalities. In the present review, we have discussed the significance of age and sex‐dependent pattern of ACE2 receptor expression and ACE2 variants in the immune protective mechanism of the disease virulence. We have also added a brief note on the importance of sex hormones in the pathogenesis of ACE2 mediated SARS‐CoV2 infection.
Silencing of long non‐coding RNADLX6‐AS1 weakens neuroblastoma progression by the miR‐513c‐5p/PLK4 axis
Authors: Jia Peisheng , Wei Erhu , Liu Huiqiong , Wu Tingting , Wang Huaili
Published: October 2020

Emerging evidence has demonstrated the crucial roles of long noncoding RNAs in human cancers, including neuroblastoma (NB). DLX6 antisense RNA 1 (DLX6‐AS1) has been identified as an oncogenic driver in NB. However, the mechanisms of DLX6‐AS1 in NB progression are not fully understood. Our data showed that DLX6‐AS1 was significantly overexpressed in NB tissues and cells. Moreover, DLX6‐AS1 silencing repressed NB cell viability, colony formation, migration, and invasion, and promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro, as well as decreased tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, DLX6‐AS1 operated as a miR‐513c‐5p sponge. MiR‐513c‐5p mediated the regulation of DLX6‐AS1 on NB cell malignant progression in vitro. PLK4 was a target of miR‐513c‐5p‐ and DLX6‐AS1‐controlled PLK4 expression via sponging miR‐513c‐5p. Furthermore, the suppressive effect of miR‐513c‐5p overexpression on NB cell malignant progression in vitro was reversed by PLK4 upregulation. Our findings identified a novel regulatory mechanism, the DLX6‐AS1/miR‐513c‐5p/PLK4 axis, in NB progression, highlighting a strong rationale for developing DLX6‐AS1 as a new target for NB management.