bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leaf Surface Morphology of Urban Tree Species and Its Contribution to Particle Pollution Removal
Authors: Abdollahi Kamran K , Ning Zhu H
Published: July 2020

According to the findings by the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC), dust, soot, and many particles in polluted air over the nation's 239 major cities cause 64,000 of premature heart and lungrelated deaths each year. In light of the new reports, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the plan to impose tougher restrictions to include fine particulate less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5). The new regulations could cost more than $2.5 billion a year to implement in a city like Chicago alone. Urban trees as a component of urban ecosystem can provide cost effective phyto-mitigation and phyto-remediation strategy for improving urban environment and quality of life. Previous studies have indicated that trees in Chicago removed 234 tons of particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM10) annually. To the extend that trees can control particulate pollution there is potential for improved air quality and substantial cost savings.
Physicochemical Identification and Comparative Biopersistence of Indoor and Outdoor Airborne Particulate Matter
Authors: BéruBé K , Jones T , Richards R
Published: July 2020

People spend the majority of their time indoors, mostly in the domestic environment, where there may be significant air pollution sources. Indoor air pollutants can be derived from the ingress of contaminated air from outdoors (e.g., heavily trafficked roads, presence of industry, allergens) and from specific indoor sources such as combustion appliances, building materials, and consumer products. The activities and behaviour of individuals, for example, cooking, heating, cleaning, smoking, pets, can also influence the production and levels of indoor air pollutants. There is a body of literature concerning indoor concentrations of pollutants such as CO, NO2, formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, house dust mites, fungi, bacteria and their health effects. However, there have been few, if any studies, conducted in the UK to date to compare and contrast indoor and outdoor particulate matter (PM). Epidemiological studies consistently suggest that increases in outdoor PMIO (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than l0μm) concentrations are linked to health effects (morbidity and mortality in persons with cardiopulmonary diseases).
Phase Identification in Mixed Oxide Capacitors Using Electron Backscatter Diffraction and X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Adams P M , Hoskinson C T , Witt R
Published: July 2020

A group of mixed oxide ceramic capacitors used in several electronic systems recently failed as a result of voltage breakdown in the specified test ranges. These capacitors consist predominantly of mixed oxides of magnesium, titanium, silicon and aluminum (with minor amounts of strontium and calcium) and contain palladium mesh electrodes. Preliminary results suggest that phase transformations have occurred in some lots of capacitors that have been over-fired as a result of a manufacturing change. Several years’ production of capacitors has potentially been affected. The formation of a phase with inferior dielectric properties, and which can exhibit semiconducting properties (P/N junction), probably resulted in the failure of the capacitors. This new phase is typically rich in strontium and is only present at levels of several volume percent. The low concentration of this phase has made its identification difficult. If this new phase could be identified it might be possible to determine/establish if its dielectric properties are consistent with the proposed failure mechanism.
The Role of Microscopy in the Study of Chemical Polymorphism
Authors: Carlton RA
Published: July 2020

Chemical polymorphism refers to the ability of compounds to exist in different solid state forms. In general, these differ solely in their arrangement in space (i.e., their crystal form). Polymorphs typically have different solid state properties such as melting point, solubility, density, etc. They also commonly exhibit distinctive optical properties such as refractive index, extinction position, optic sign and optic angle. The choice of polymorph can be an important consideration in the drug development process if the solid state properties have wide differences. Further, it is generally desirable to develop the polymorph which is stable at room temperature and pressure, since metastable forms convert spontaneously to the stable ones, albeit often at a very slow rate. Optical, thermal and scanning electron microscopy each play important roles in the study of chemical polymorphism.

Optical microscopy, and more specifically polarized light microscopy, contributes both to the discovery of new polymorphs and to the elucidation of the relationship among polymorphs.
Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) and Electron Energy-Loss (EELS) Spectroscopic Mapping of Microelectronic Devices
Authors: Bruley J , Flaitz P
Published: July 2020

Many crucial measurements in the semiconductor industry involve determining the root cause of an electrical failure, often requiring the capability of extracting microstructural and chemical information with nanometer resolution [1]. The microanalysis is achieved by stepping the focused probe over the region of interest in STEM mode and recording an EDX and EELS spectrum at each pixel. Even for relatively modest image sizes, the resultant spectrum-image may consist of more than 10,000 spectra. With such large data sets, the prospect of manually inspecting and quantifying each spectrum in real-time is impossible and even automatic background modeling followed by peak area integration over selected spectral regions-of-interest can be excessively time consuming. Other methods to extract useful physical information include “fingerprinting” characteristic ELNES shapes to known compounds or bonding environments, multiple least squares regression to a relatively small set of suspected components or peak-fitting to model systematic changes in electronic density of states.
Thermal Treatment Induced Dislocation Bundles in Gaas Substrates Studied by Scanning Infrared Polariscopy, Visible-Light Interferometry, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Makyoh and X-Ray Topography
Authors: Mock P
Published: July 2020

It is well known that heat treatment induced plastic deformation of GaAs substrates is a key factor that reduces the yield of electronic devices in manufacturing processes on an industrial scale. Our recent X-ray topographic survey showed that a quite common, radiatively heated, non In-bonded sample holder design can cause severe plastic deformation in two-inch diameter GaAs (001) substrates when they are heated up to about 650 °C in a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth chamber. Unintentional plastic deformation occurred for all three investigated MBE machines, which were of different make, but we overcame the technical problem by modifications to the sample holder of a user built MBE machine. At present, however, there is no theoretical model available that can satisfactorily describe the experimental observations including the spatial distribution of the majority of the dislocation bundles.

The plastic deformation up to about 98 % is realised by bundles of dislocations which start at the sample edges around the four <100> peripheral areas,
Morphology Effects from Advances in Polymer Blend Processing
Authors: Wood Barbara A
Published: July 2020

Innovations in the processing of polymers and polymer mixtures can have unintended consequences for microstructure. Microscopic investigations have been motivated in some cases by acquisition of new processing machinery which is larger, such as the supercompounding extruders. Strategies to expand the capacity of existing machines also necessitate detailed property and morphology comparisons between old and new batches of commercially important blends.

Other types of innovations use a temporary processing aid. Dispersed phase size reduction in melt blends on addition of supercritical carbon dioxide has been reported for PMMA/PS blends. TEM images showed smaller, more uniform domains attributed to reduction in melt viscosity. Blends are also under investigation now in flash spun plexifilament fibers to extend the range of end-use properties, but the need for a common solvent limits the possible pairs of polymers. A two-step R.UO4 vapor staining procedure, in which the bulk and sectioned material are exposed, has been used to examine non-equilibrium morphologies frozen in from flash spinning.
Diagnosis of Magnification Stability and Non-Linearity in SEMs
Authors: Sicignano A , Eremin D , Nikitin A V
Published: July 2020

Summary: In recent years the SEM has advanced from an instrument used primarily for imaging to a tool for performing precise and accurate measurements of features. The SEM has been widely adapted by workers in diverse technical fields such as: integrated circuit (IC) processing, micro electro-mechanical devices (MEMs) design and molecular biology research. The SEM user in need of acquiring accurate dimensional information about their samples normally relies on the magnification readings and settings provided by the instrument maker. Tools to evaluate the precision of these physical dimensions or to assist in understanding the state of the SEM are not currently available. This paper presents a new methodology based on novel software and hardware to provide the user with capability of diagnosing the magnification stability and non-linearity of their SEMs prior to attempting accurate and precise feature measurements. Examples will be presented demonstrating the diagnosis of magnification stability and non-linearity in SEMs located at 4 independent sites.
KNOWLEDGE, JUSTIFICATION, AND ADEQUATE REASONS
Authors: ÉGRÉ PAUL , MARTY PAUL , RENNE BRYAN
Published: July 2020

Is knowledge definable as justified true belief (“JTB”)? We argue that one can legitimately answer positively or negatively, depending on whether or not one’s true belief is justified by what we call adequate reasons. To facilitate our argument we introduce a simple propositional logic of reason-based belief, and give an axiomatic characterization of the notion of adequacy for reasons. We show that this logic is sufficiently flexible to accommodate various useful features, including quantification over reasons. We use our framework to contrast two notions of JTB: one internalist, the other externalist. We argue that Gettier cases essentially challenge the internalist notion but not the externalist one. Our approach commits us to a form of infallibilism about knowledge, but it also leaves us with a puzzle, namely whether knowledge involves the possession of only adequate reasons, or leaves room for some inadequate reasons. We favor the latter position, which reflects a milder and more realistic version of infallibilism.
“I Think That I Made a Good Impression!”
Authors: Kleinlogel Emmanuelle P. , Renier Laetitia , Schmid Mast Marianne , Toma Claudia
Published: July 2020

Abstract. In an evaluative context, does the impression we think we convey to others matter, such that the more positive we think the impression conveyed is, the better we perform? Does this belief need to be accurate to perform better? We investigate the role of meta-perception and meta-accuracy in a public speaking context by asking participants to deliver a speech in front of an audience in virtual reality. Main results showed that participants’ meta-perception (i.e., how positive they think the audience perceives them) was positively associated to their performance above and beyond other-perception (i.e., how the audience actually perceives them). Results also revealed that performance increased as scores of meta-perception and other-perception increased together (i.e., meta-accuracy), up to a certain threshold.
Does Perceived Stress Affect the Relationship Between Personality and	Sports Enjoyment?
Authors: Dunker Freya , Freund Philipp A. , Engels Eliane S.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Background: Sports enjoyment is a prerequisite for continued engagement in sports (e.g., Mullen et al., 2011 ; Woods, Tannehill, & Walsh, 2012 ). To date, it is understudied whether perceived stress and personality relate to the experience of sports enjoyment. Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between perceived stress, personality (the Big Five), and sports enjoyment. Method: Data were collected online from a group of N = 195 adults. There were two points of measurements with an interval of 4 weeks in between. Personality was assessed at t1, while perceived stress and sports enjoyment were measured at t2. Results: The results indicate that perceived stress is significantly related to sports enjoyment: A high amount of perceived stress was associated with less enjoyment of sports. Neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, and agreeableness were related to sports enjoyment, but openness was not. Models testing the mediating effect of perceived stress for personality on sports enjoyment showed significant direct effects for extraversion and conscientiousness and significant indirect effects for neuroticism, extraversion, and conscientiousness. Limitations: Limitations concerning the sample characteristics and some poor fit statistics for the models including openness and extraversion are discussed. Conclusion: Overall, our findings suggest that perceived stress influences the affective experience in physical exercise.
Short Form of the State-Trait Anger Expression	Inventory-2
Authors: Tibubos Ana N. , Schermelleh-Engel Karin , Rohrmann Sonja
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The purpose of the present study was to develop a short form of the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2 (STAXI-2) based on the German STAXI-2. Item selection was performed based on exploratory factor analyses (EFA) using descriptive statistical parameters and content-related considerations on calibration samples ( N1 = 215, N2 = 310). The factorial structure of the final extracted scales was validated via confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) ( N3 = 216, N4 = 310). Overall, results present an economic and reliable questionnaire with a total length of 24 items: State Anger short scales Feeling Angry, Verbal Anger Impulse, and Physical Anger Impulse (3 items each), that can be aggregated to a total State Anger score, as well as Trait Anger short scales Angry Reaction (3 items), Anger Expression-In, Anger Expression-Out, and Anger Control (4 items each). The structure of State Anger is identical to the German long version with improved internal consistency in the short form. Regarding the Trait scales, critique on the STAXI-2 has been taken into account resulting in the elimination of the subscale Trait Temperament due to redundancy with Trait Anger Expression-Out and for economic reasons. Other than that, the structure has remained the same. In addition, strict measurement invariance was established based on multi-group CFA for both the State and the Trait scales across gender and age groups, which has not been investigated for STAXI-2 versions to date.
Diel Measurements of Oxygen‐ and Carbon‐Based Ocean Metabolism Across a Trophic Gradient in the North Pacific
Authors: Henderikx Freitas Fernanda , White Angelicque E. , Quay Paul D.
Published: July 2020

Daily in situ rates of gross production and community respiration estimated from high‐frequency diel cycles in oxygen (O2) and optically derived particulate carbon from several platforms (both ship based and via profiling floats) were made across an ecological gradient in the North Pacific spanning the high‐nutrient/low‐chlorophyll sub‐Arctic to the oligotrophic subtropical gyre. Both oxygen and carbon‐based gross primary production and respiration rates indicated a ~3× increase between subtropical and subpolar stations. We consistently found that gross production and community respiration rates were in approximate balance at all stations across the full ecological gradient, implying that community respiration is fueled by recently produced organic matter and that recycling efficiency (~90%) is similar along the gradient. We determined that phytoplankton turnover time doubles (from 2 to 4 days) between subtropical and subpolar regimes, whereas biomass increases by approximately tenfold. We found a consistent photosynthetic quotient (1.4 ± 0.2 mol O2 mol C−1), respiratory quotient (1.0 ± 0.2 mol O2 mol C−1), and gross to net production ratio (2.0 ± 0.3) at all stations which underscores the similarity of fundamental ecological characteristics despite the transition f rom nutrient deplete to replete conditions. That the float‐ and ship‐based estimates of in situ production and respiration generally agreed well suggests that float‐based diel O2 and particulate organic carbon measurements have the potential to greatly expand our knowledge of spatial and temporal variability of productivity and respiration in the ocean.
Shaping the Surface Deformation of Central and South Tibetan Plateau: Insights From Magnetotelluric Array Data
Authors: Dong Hao , Wei Wenbo , Jin Sheng , Ye Gaofeng , Jones Alan G. , Zhang Letian , Jing Jian’en , Xie Chengliang , Yin Yaotian
Published: July 2020

The ongoing India‐Asia collision since the Paleogene created the Tibetan Plateau, the most prominent elevated plateau on our planet. This convergence also contributed to the formation of two distinct types of active surface deformation of the plateau, namely, north–south trending normal fault systems and “conjugate” strike‐slip fault systems. The tectonics and geodynamic mechanism(s) behind this curious combination are still unclear, despite numerous theories proposed over past decades. Here we present a new three‐dimensional, lithospheric‐scale, electrical conductivity model with unprecedented resolution of the central part of Tibetan Plateau derived from the SINOPROBE magnetotelluric array data set and discuss its inferences related to this question. Our model reveals contrasting conductivity structures corresponding to the surface deformation patterns, namely, highly conductive lower crustal anomalies beneath the graben systems in the Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes and moderately resistive crustal features in the strike‐slip region near Bangong‐Nujiang Suture Zone. With the help of experimentally calibrated constraints between conductivity and melt fraction, the conductivity model and the inferred lateral viscosity distribution together suggest a weak lower crust beneath the graben regions, compared to a stronger crustal rheology associated with the strike‐slip zone. Here we expand the previously proposed “extensional extrusion” tectonic model in central Tibet to interpret our conductivity model and other geophysical/geodesic observations. The weak rheology under a N‐S directed primary stress may have caused the east–west extension of the graben regions, which further aides the eastward extrusion of the conjugate strike‐slip zone and eventually shapes the surface deformation of central Tibetan Plateau into its current, complex pattern.
Multicentre biomarker cohort study on the efficacy of nivolumab treatment for gastric cancer
Authors: Hagi Takaomi , Kurokawa Yukinori , Kawabata Ryohei , Omori Takeshi , Matsuyama Jin , Fujitani Kazumasa , Hirao Motohiro , Akamaru Yusuke , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Yamasaki Makoto , Satoh Taroh , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: July 2020

Background

Predictive factors of nivolumab treatment response in patients with gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, tissue specimens of patients with unresectable or recurrent GC and prior or scheduled treatment with nivolumab as third-line or higher therapy between September 2017 and February 2019 were collected from 23 institutions. The tumour-positive score (TPS) and combined positive score (CPS) of PD-L1 expression and mismatch repair (MMR) were analysed by immunohistochemistry. Associations between clinicopathological factors and tumour-response rate, hyperprogressive disease (HPD) rate and survival were assessed.

Results

Of 200 eligible patients, 143 had measurable lesions. The response and HPD rates were 17.5% and 22.1%, respectively. The response rate was significantly higher in patients with performance status (PS) 0–1 (P = 0.026), non-peritoneal metastasis (P = 0.021), PD-L1 TPS ≥ 1 (P = 0.012), CPS ≥ 5 (P = 0.007) or ≥ 10 (P < 0.001) or MMR deficiency (P < 0.001). The HPD rate was significantly higher in patients with PS 2–3 (P = 0.026), liver metastasis (P < 0.001) and CPS < 10 (P = 0.048). Multivariate analysis revealed that CPS (P = 0.001) and MMR (P = 0.002) were independent prognostic factors of progression-free survival, as well as liver metastasis (P < 0.001), peritoneal metastasis (P = 0.004) and CRP (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

PD-L1 CPS and MMR could be useful biomarkers for nivolumab treatment efficacy in GC.

Clinical trial registration

UMIN000032164.
Author Correction: A strong and ductile medium-entropy alloy resists hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion
Authors: Luo Hong , Sohn Seok Su , Lu Wenjun , Li Linlin , Li Xiaogang , Soundararajan Chandrahaasan K. , Krieger Waldemar , Li Zhiming , Raabe Dierk
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Evidence for a unitary structure of spatial cognition beyond general intelligence
Authors: Malanchini Margherita , Rimfeld Kaili , Shakeshaft Nicholas G. , McMillan Andrew , Schofield Kerry L. , Rodic Maja , Rossi Valerio , Kovas Yulia , Dale Philip S. , Tucker-Drob Elliot M. , Plomin Robert
Published: July 2020

Performance in everyday spatial orientation tasks (e.g., map reading and navigation) has been considered functionally separate from performance on more abstract object-based spatial abilities (e.g., mental rotation and visualization). However, few studies have examined the link between spatial orientation and object-based spatial skills, and even fewer have done so including a wide range of spatial tests. To examine this issue and more generally to test the structure of spatial ability, we used a novel gamified battery to assess six tests of spatial orientation in a virtual environment and examined their association with ten object-based spatial tests, as well as their links to general cognitive ability (g). We further estimated the role of genetic and environmental factors in underlying variation and covariation in these spatial tests. Participants (N = 2660; aged 19–22) were part of the Twins Early Development Study. The six tests of spatial orientation clustered into a single ‘Navigation’factor that was 64% heritable. Examining the structure of spatial ability across all 16 tests, three, substantially correlated, factors emerged:Navigation,Object Manipulation, andVisualization. These, in turn, loaded strongly onto a general factor ofSpatial Ability, which was highly heritable (84%). A large portion (45%) of this high heritability was independent ofg. The results point towards the existence of a common genetic network that supports all spatial abilities.
The transcriptional signature associated with human motile cilia
Authors: Patir Anirudh , Fraser Amy M. , Barnett Mark W. , McTeir Lynn , Rainger Joe , Davey Megan G. , Freeman Tom C.
Published: July 2020

Cilia are complex microtubule-based organelles essential to a range of processes associated with embryogenesis and tissue homeostasis. Mutations in components of these organelles or those involved in their assembly may result in a diverse set of diseases collectively known as ciliopathies. Accordingly, many cilia-associated proteins have been described, while those distinguishing cilia subtypes are poorly defined. Here we set out to define genes associated with motile cilia in humans based on their transcriptional signature. To define the signature, we performed network deconvolution of transcriptomics data derived from tissues possessing motile ciliated cell populations. For each tissue, genes coexpressed with the motile cilia-associated transcriptional factor, FOXJ1, were identified. The consensus across tissues provided a transcriptional signature of 248 genes. To validate these, we examined the literature, databases (CilDB, CentrosomeDB, CiliaCarta and SysCilia), single cell RNA-Seq data, and the localisation of mRNA and proteins in motile ciliated cells. In the case of six poorly characterised signature genes, we performed new localisation experiments on ARMC3, EFCAB6, FAM183A, MYCBPAP, RIBC2 and VWA3A. In summary, we report a set of motile cilia-associated genes that helps shape our understanding of these complex cellular organelles.
Identification of key genes in ruptured atherosclerotic plaques by weighted gene correlation network analysis
Authors: Xu Bao-Feng , Liu Rui , Huang Chun-Xia , He Bin-Sheng , Li Guang-Yi , Sun Hong-Shuo , Feng Zhong-Ping , Bao Mei-Hua
Published: July 2020

The rupture of atherosclerotic plaques is essential for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Identification of the key genes related to plaque rupture is an important approach to predict the status of plaque and to prevent the clinical events. In the present study, we downloaded two expression profiles related to the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques (GSE41571 and GSE120521) from GEO database. 11 samples in GSE41571 were used to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and to construct the weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) by R software. The gene oncology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment tool in DAVID website, and the Protein-protein interactions in STRING website were used to predict the functions and mechanisms of genes. Furthermore, we mapped the hub genes extracted from WGCNA to DEGs, and constructed a sub-network using Cytoscape 3.7.2. The key genes were identified by the molecular complex detection (MCODE) in Cytoscape. Further validation was conducted using dataset GSE120521 and human carotid endarterectomy (CEA) plaques. Results: In our study, 868 DEGs were identified in GSE41571. Six modules with 236 hub genes were identified through WGCNA analysis. Among these six modules, blue and brown modules were of the highest correlations with ruptured plaques (with a correlation of 0.82 and −0.9 respectively). 72 hub genes were identified from blue and brown modules. These 72 genes were the most likely ones being related to cell adhesion, extracellular matrix organization, cell growth, cell migration, leukocyte migration, PI3K-Akt signaling, focal adhesion, and ECM-receptor interaction. Among the 72 hub genes, 45 were mapped to the DEGs (logFC > 1.0, p-value < 0.05). The sub-network of these 45 hub genes and MCODE analysis indicated 3 clusters (13 genes) as key genes. They were LOXL1, FBLN5, FMOD, ELN, EFEMP1 in cluster 1, RILP, HLA-DRA, HLA-DMB, HLA-DMA in cluster 2, and SFRP4, FZD6, DKK3 in cluster 3. Further expression detection indicated EFEMP1, BGN, ELN, FMOD, DKK3, FBLN5, FZD6, HLA-DRA, HLA-DMB, HLA-DMA, and RILP might have potential diagnostic value.
Cognition of agriculture waste and payments for a circular agriculture model in Central China
Authors: Atinkut Haimanot B. , Yan Tingwu , Zhang Fengyi , Qin Shengze , Gai Hao , Liu Qiqi
Published: July 2020

An integrated model combining multi-layer cradle to cradle approach: cost effective, technically sound, and bioenvironmental cutting-edge agricultural waste assessment technologies are lacking; to address this gap, the study proposes circular agriculture model (CAM) to support an integrated, bio-based, sustainable and broadly applicable rural society. CAM is an innovative, quasi-public product, bio-commodity, and concept. This study uses survey data on the Chinese province of Hubei to consider the returning of crop residues to the soil and manure for compost or biogas production (first-generation biorefinery). It explores farmers' environmental understanding and their willingness to pay (WTP) under a “polluter pays” principle. Factors, including education, infrastructure, trust in family-neighbors, and environmental attitudes, have a significant effect on WTP. Moreover, income, sustainability-recycling behavior, environmental perception, perceived usefulness-easiness, and trust-in-government positively affect farmers’ WTP, whereas environmental attitude, intention, and selfishness have a negative effect. It, therefore, calls for the integration and cooperation of private, government, business, R&D and public welfare to value the combined rural traditions, religion, philosophy and belief, socio-psychological and altruistic values of local communities, which are essential for building trust and providing ecological security, tech spill-over, thereby indirectly helping farmers to restore their livelihoods.
Selection and validation of reference genes by RT-qPCR for murine cementoblasts in mechanical loading experiments simulating orthodontic forces in vitro
Authors: Niederau Christian , Craveiro Rogerio B. , Azraq Irma , Brockhaus Julia , Bastian Asisa , Kirschneck Christian , Wolf Michael
Published: July 2020

Different structures and cell types of the periodontium respond to orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) individually. Cementoblasts (OC/CM) located in the immediate vicinity of the fibroblasts on the cement have found way to the centre of actual research. Here, we identify and validate possible reference genes for OC/CM cells by RT-qPCR with and without static compressive loading. We investigated the suitability of 3 reference genes in an in vitro model of cementoblast cells using four different algorithms (Normfinder, geNorm, comparative delta-Ct method and BestKeeper) under different confluences and time. Comparable to our previous publications about reference genes in OTM in rats and human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLF), Rpl22 in murine OC/CM cells appears as the least regulated gene so that it represents the most appropriate reference gene. Furthermore, unlike to the expression of our recommended reference genes, the expression of additionally investigated target genes changes with confluence and under loading compression. Based on our findings for future RT-qPCR analyses in OC/CM cells, Rpl22 or the combination Rpl22/Tbp should be favored as reference gene. According to our results, although many publications propose the use of Gapdh, it does not seem to be the most suitable approach.
Finding hotspots: development of an adaptive spatial sampling approach
Authors: Andrade-Pacheco Ricardo , Rerolle Francois , Lemoine Jean , Hernandez Leda , Meïté Aboulaye , Juziwelo Lazarus , Bibaut Aurélien F. , van der Laan Mark J. , Arnold Benjamin F. , Sturrock Hugh J. W.
Published: July 2020

The identification of disease hotspots is an increasingly important public health problem. While geospatial modeling offers an opportunity to predict the locations of hotspots using suitable environmental and climatological data, little attention has been paid to optimizing the design of surveys used to inform such models. Here we introduce an adaptive sampling scheme optimized to identify hotspot locations where prevalence exceeds a relevant threshold. Our approach incorporates ideas from Bayesian optimization theory to adaptively select sample batches. We present an experimental simulation study based on survey data of schistosomiasis and lymphatic filariasis across four countries. Results across all scenarios explored show that adaptive sampling produces superior results and suggest that similar performance to random sampling can be achieved with a fraction of the sample size.
Somatic copy number profiling from hepatocellular carcinoma circulating tumor cells
Authors: Court Colin M. , Hou Shuang , Liu Lian , Winograd Paul , DiPardo Benjamin J. , Liu Sean X. , Chen Pin-Jung , Zhu Yazhen , Smalley Matthew , Zhang Ryan , Sadeghi Saeed , Finn Richard S. , Kaldas Fady M. , Busuttil Ronald W. , Zhou Xianghong J. , Tseng Hsian-Rong , Tomlinson James S. , Graeber Thomas G. , Agopian Vatche G.
Published: July 2020

Somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) are important genetic drivers of many cancers. We investigated the feasibility of obtaining SCNA profiles from circulating tumor cells (CTCs) as a molecular liquid biopsy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CTCs from ten HCC patients underwent SCNA profiling. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) SCNA data were used to develop a cancer origin classification model, which was then evaluated for classifying 44 CTCs from multiple cancer types. Sequencing of 18 CTC samples (median: 4 CTCs/sample) from 10 HCC patients using a low-resolution whole-genome sequencing strategy (median: 0.88 million reads/sample) revealed frequent SCNAs in previously reported HCC regions such as 8q amplifications and 17p deletions. SCNA profiling revealed that CTCs share a median of 80% concordance with the primary tumor. CTCs had SCNAs not seen in the primary tumor, some with prognostic implications. Using a SCNA profiling model, the tissue of origin was correctly identified for 32/44 (73%) CTCs from 12/16 (75%) patients with different cancer types.
Bimetallic FeNi-MIL-88-derived NiFe2O4@Ni–Mn LDH composite electrode material for a high performance asymmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Li Shaobin , Pan Jing , Li Fengbo , Zhang Li , Chai Dongfeng , Zhang Zhuanfang , Xin Jianjiao
Published: July 2020

A novel NiFe2O4@Ni–Mn LDH/NF composite was synthesized by deriving bimetallic FeNi-MIL-88, and has potential application as a high-performance supercapacitor.
Bio-waste chitosan-derived N-doped CNT-supported Ni nanoparticles for selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes
Authors: Advani Jacky H. , Ravi Krishnan , Naikwadi Dhanaji R. , Bajaj Hari C. , Gawande Manoj B. , Biradar Ankush V.
Published: July 2020

In this study, a facile method for the synthesis of leach proof and earth-abundant non-noble Ni nanoparticles on N-doped carbon nanotubes is reported.
Ligand-triplet migration in iridium(iii) cyclometalates featuring π-conjugated isocyanide ligands
Authors: Favale Joseph M. , Hauke Cory E. , Danilov Evgeny O. , Yarnell James E. , Castellano Felix N.
Published: July 2020

The degree of ancillary ligand conjugation determines Ir(iii) polychromophoric photophysical properties via manipulation of the triplet excited state manifolds.
Probing the bacterial detoxification of cadmium to form cadmium sulfide quantum dots and the underlying mechanism
Authors: Mahle Reddhy , Kumbhakar Partha , Pramanik Ashim , Kumbhakar Pathik , Sahoo Sumita , Mukherjee Rabibrata , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Banerjee Rintu
Published: July 2020

A comprehensive study of the mechanism involved in the extracellular detoxification of cadmium via investigating the impact of microbial growth and environmental parameters on CdS QD formation.
A two-dimensional metallosupramolecular framework design based on coordination crosslinking of helical oligoamide nanorods
Authors: West Norton G. , Seoudi Rania S. , Barlow Anders J. , Qi Dongchen , Puskar Ljiljana , Del Borgo Mark P. , Kulkarni Ketav , Adda Christopher G. , Pan Jisheng , Aguilar Marie-Isabel , Perlmutter Patrick , Mechler Adam
Published: July 2020

Coordination crosslinking of oligoamide nanorods yields two dimensional metallosupramolecular framework.
Facile in situ formation of luminescent cellulose paper using Schweizer's reagent as an inorganic solvent in water
Authors: Fraser Stephanie A. , Pillay Michael N. , van Zyl Werner E.
Published: July 2020

The inorganic solvent Schweizer reagent was attached to the surface of cellulose, followed by an in situ chemical reaction performed directly on the solvent forming a stable and luminescent Cu(i) cluster-functionalized cellulose paper.
Supramolecular liquid crystals exhibiting a chiral twist-bend nematic phase
Authors: Walker Rebecca , Pociecha Damian , Salamończyk Mirosław , Storey John M. D. , Gorecka Ewa , Imrie Corrie T.
Published: July 2020

The characterisation of a selection of novel, chiral supramolecular liquid crystals formed by hydrogen-bonding is reported; these are the first examples of the chiral twist-bend nematic phase (N*TB) induced by H-bonding through molecular recognition.
Drug combinations as effective anti-leishmanials against drug resistant Leishmania mexicana
Authors: Ahmed Humera , Curtis Charlotte R. , Tur-Gracia Sara , Olatunji Toluwanimi O. , Carter Katharine C. , Williams Roderick A. M.
Published: July 2020

Synergistic and antagonist drug interactions of drug combinations against Leishmania drug sensitive and resistant cell lines.
Biologically interfaced nanoplasmonic sensors
Authors: Ferhan Abdul Rahim , Yoon Bo Kyeong , Jeon Won-Yong , Cho Nam-Joon
Published: July 2020

This Minireview highlights and discusses the critical role of biological interfacing in constructing nanoplasmonic sensing platforms for biointerfacial science applications.
Efficient and tunable shape selective synthesis of Ag/CeO2 nanostructures modified highly stable SERS substrate for ultrasensitive detection of pesticides on the surface of an apple
Authors: Thirumalairajan S. , Girija K.
Published: July 2020

Detection of pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables is of significant importance to ensure human and environmental safety.
Remote azidation of C(sp3)–H bonds to synthesize δ-azido sulfonamidesviairon-catalyzed radical relay
Authors: Bian Kang-Jie , Wang Cheng-Yu , Huang Yu-Ling , Xu Yi-Hao , Wang Xi-Sheng
Published: July 2020

A selective remote C–H azidation was developed with an iron catalyst playing dual roles as a radical initiator and terminator.
Halogen-mediated electrochemical organic synthesis
Authors: Tang Hai-Tao , Jia Jun-Song , Pan Ying-Ming
Published: July 2020

Halogen anion is oxidized to molecular halogens, halogen cations or halogen radicals at the anode, which combines with substrates to provide different products.
Planar chiral palladacycle precatalysts for asymmetric synthesis
Authors: Arthurs Ross A. , Hughes David L. , Richards Christopher J.
Published: July 2020

The first demonstration of a chiral palladacycle precatalyst in Pd(0) mediated asymmetric synthesis is achieved by a novel ligand synthesis/palladium capture procedure.
Molecular crowding effects on the biochemical properties of amyloid β–heme, Aβ–Cu and Aβ–heme–Cu complexes
Authors: Li Meng , Liu Zhenqi , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: July 2020

Our findings highlight the significance of hydration contributions to the interactions of Aβ–heme and Aβ–Cu as well as their peroxidase activities. Aβ40–Cu but not Aβ40–heme may play more important roles in the oxidative damage in the etiology of AD.
Cobalt nitride nanoparticle coated hollow carbon spheres with nitrogen vacancies as an electrocatalyst for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wu Hao , Jiang Hao , Yang Yongqiang , Hou Chenyi , Zhao Haitao , Xiao Ru , Wang Hongzhi
Published: July 2020

Co5.47Nx with nitrogen vacancies exhibits high-performance, facilitates Li+ diffusion and improves electrode kinetics in Li–S batteries.
A flexible yet wear-resistant co-citrate elastomer for on-demand disposable patch sensors
Authors: Kim Do-Gwan , Ahn Dowon , Kim Kang-Han , Jeong Yong-Cheol
Published: July 2020

Herein, we report a wearable strain sensor, composed of a water-soluble metal electrode and a pH-sensitive encapsulation layer, with conforming flexibility and super wear-resistance.
Polar polymorphism: α- and β-KCsWP2O9nonlinear optical materials with a strong second harmonic generation response
Authors: Baiheti Tuohetijiang , Han Shujuan , Tudi Abudukadi , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: July 2020

Two polymorphs of KCsWP2O9exhibit a large SHG response due to non-bonding O-2p orbitals and strong orbital interactions of W-5d orbitals and O-2p orbitals, the orientations of the dipole moments of WO6are also beneficial for the large SHG response.
Meta-analysis of the relationship between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T and A1298C polymorphism and venous thromboembolism in the Caucasian and Asian
Authors: Gao Miao , Feng Na , Zhang Meixia , Ti Xinyu , Zuo Xiuping
Published: July 2020

Recent years, it is a highly debated topic that whether methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and A1298C polymorphism could increase susceptibility to venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the Asian and Caucasian. Therefore, we expect to settle that controversy evidentially. Basic methods: Electronic databases (Pubmed, embase, Cochrane library, scopus, OvidSP, Wiley Online library, Springer link, EBSCO, Elsevier Science Direct, Google scholar) without date limitation were searched. Crude odds ratio (OR) along with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated to assess the association quantitatively. Finally, a total of 37 eligible studies were included, containing 31 for MTHFR C677T polymorphism and 6 for MTHFR A1298C polymorphism. The pooled results suggested that MTHFR C677T mutation may increase susceptibility to VTE in reverse recessive model (CC+CT vs TT): OR = 0.68 (0.56, 0.83), reverse dominant model (CC vs CT +TT): OR = 0.82 (0.72, 0.94), heterozygote model (CT vs TT): OR = 0.65 (0.52, 0.81), homozygote model (CC vs TT): OR = 0.73 (0.60, 0.89) and allele model (C vs T): OR = 0.80 (0.71, 0.90). Subgroup analysis about Asian also support that results, but Caucasian group not. In addition, MTHFR A1298C polymorphism may be not related to VTE in all genetic model. The results of meta-analysis indicated that MTHFR C677T polymorphism might increase the risk of VTE, especially in Asian population.
Delayed output feedback sliding mode control for uncertain non‐linear systems
Authors: Soni Sandeep Kumar , Kamal Shyam , Ghosh Sandip
Published: July 2020

This study proposes an output feedback sliding mode control with an artificial delay. The output information‐based sliding surface is outlined. An artificial delay as well as an exponential decay term is introduced in the sliding surface, which reflects these additional terms (artificial delay and exponential decay term) in the reduced‐order dynamics. The idea and advantage of utilising the artificial delay in the sliding surface are to stabilise the class of systems, which are not able to stabilise with only output feedback. The employment of exponential decay term in the sliding surface provides a reaching phase free behaviour. It implies that the authors' approach is insensitive to external matched disturbances from the very initial time. With the aid of Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, local input to state stability for the reduced‐order dynamics as well as for the closed‐loop system is presented. Finally, the simulation results of the translation oscillator with rotating actuator system are presented to validate the effectiveness of the offered technique.
Restoration of antenna performance in the vicinity of metallic cylinder in implantable scenario
Authors: Ghosh Jeet , Mitra Debasis
Published: July 2020

In this study, the authors propose an innovative solution based on mantle cloaking method to restore the performance of an implantable antenna, which is degraded due to the scattering from an adjacent metallic body. In an implantable device, the metallic body is generally used as a house for electronic circuitry. Initially, they investigate the deteriorating effects of metallic body on the antenna input impedance and radiation characteristics. Finally, by covering the metallic body with the designed metasurface, most of the antenna parameters are successfully retrieved. The proposed model is fabricated and measured with the in vitro test by immersing the antenna inside a muscle emulating gel, as well as, inside the minced pork.
Stability analysis and experimental validation of the supercapacitor‐assisted low‐dropout regulator
Authors: Subasinghage Kasun , Gunawardane Kosala , Kularatna Nihal
Published: July 2020

The supercapacitor‐assisted low‐dropout (SCALDO) regulator is a unique new design approach to develop high efficiency, high current and low noise DC–DC converters, where a supercapacitor (SC) is used in the series path of a low dropout (LDO) regulator to act as a lossless voltage dropper. In the published literature, there has been much discussion about the stability of an LDO regulator, where different approaches are applied to frequency compensate depending on the LDO architecture. Given the case that the SCALDO technique is a combination of an LDO regulator and an SC, this study presents an analysis and experimental validation of the stability, based on a 12–5 V SCALDO prototype, proving that the effect of the SC energy recovery method does not make the overall regulator carry a stability issue in general.
Multichannel sequential display LED driver with optimal transient performance and efficiency via synchronous integral control
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Hu Tingshu
Published: July 2020

This study proposes a high performance multichannel sequential display light emitting diode (LED) driver with pulse width modulated dimming control. A synchronous integral control strategy is developed for achieving optimal transient performances for the channel voltages and ideal rectangular waveforms for the LED current, which will help to maintain high efficiency and extend the lifetime of the LEDs. By synchronous integral control, each channel has a corresponding integrator whose input and output are turned on and off synchronously with the LED string. The proposed driver topology and control strategy are supported by detailed analysis on stability and transient response during on‐time interval of a channel by using the averaged state‐space model. The effectiveness of the design method is demonstrated with simulation. A three‐channel LED driver is constructed to experimentally validate the high efficiency and high performance of the proposed topology and control strategy with desired LED current waveform and nearly constant channel voltages.
One intelligent framework for screening and intervention of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Authors: Qian Xuesheng , Dai Weihui , Xu Renbin , Ling Hong
Published: July 2020

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a very unstable transition state between normal aging and dementia. Due to lack of accurate treatment and with high risk of dementia transformation, early diagnosis and intervention of MCI has become very important. In view of the limitations of current MCI screening methods dominated by neuropsychological testing and intervention measures dominated by traditional occupational therapy (OT), this paper proposes one intelligent framework based on online chess and cards games, which integrates online behaviour big data's MCI screening and game cognitive OT methods. Thus, a new method of screening and rehabilitation intervention for potential patients with MCI will be realised through the routine tracks of the actions online.
Influence of velocity dispersions on star-formation activities in galaxies
Authors: Wang Tsan-Ming , Hwang Chorng-Yuan
Published: July 2020

We investigated the influence of the random velocity of molecular gas on star-formation activities of six nearby galaxies. The physical properties of a molecular cloud, such as temperature and density, influence star-formation activities in the cloud. Additionally, local and turbulent motions of molecules in a cloud may exert substantial pressure on gravitational collapse and thus prevent or reduce star formation in the cloud. However, the influence of gas motion on star-formation activities remains poorly understood. We used data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array to obtain 12CO(J = 1 − 0) flux and velocity dispersion. We then combined these data with 3.6 and 8 micron midinfrared data from the Spitzer Space Telescope to evaluate the effects of gas motion on star-formation activities in several nearby galaxies. We discovered that relatively high velocity dispersion in molecular clouds corresponds with relatively low star-formation activity. Considering the velocity dispersion as an additional parameter, we derived a modified Kennicutt-Schmidt law with a gas surface density power index of 0.84 and velocity dispersion power index of −0.61.