bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pupil dilation reflects English /l//r/ discrimination ability for Japanese learners of English: a pilot study
Authors: Kinzuka Yuya , Minami Tetsuto , Nakauchi Shigeki
Published: May 2020

The importance of the English language has been increasing as various fields have become more globalized. When Japanese people try to acquire foreign language such as English, learners find it difficult to perceive speech-sounds such as the phonemes /l/ and /r/ that are absent in their native language (e.g., “light”/lάit/ and “right”/rάit/). Recent studies report that a unique sound that deviates from a repetitive background sound induces pupillary dilation response (PDR) regardless of whether attention is directed to the sound or not. In this study, we investigated whether deviation in higher-order processing such as language processing induces PDR, and the possibility of determining implicit subjective English proficiency. A behavioural auditory distinguishing ability test was performed prior to the main experiment to quantitatively evaluate participants’ ability to distinguish English words. Then, by conducting an oddball paradigm-employing stimulus including the phonemes /l/ and /r/ with simultaneous pupil diameter recording, a significant dilation was evoked by /l/-/r/ speech sounds presented as deviant stimuli. Moreover, a strong correlation between the PDR amplitude and participants’ ability to distinguish English words was found; that is, individuals with higher ability to distinguish such words displayed a prominent PDR. Also, the PDR difference between the two groups classified by discrimination ability suggests that PDR might be sensitive to higher-order characteristics involved in language processing, which is independent from the aspects of physical sound and cognitive load.
High efficiency CHO cell display-based antibody maturation
Authors: Luo Ruiqi , Zhao Yun , Fan Yingjun , An Lili , Jiang Tao , Ma Shaohua , Hang Haiying
Published: May 2020

Previously, we developed a CHO cell display-based antibody maturation procedure in which an antibody (or other protein) gene of interest was induced to mutate by activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) and then form a library by simply proliferating the CHO cells in culture. In this study, we further improved the efficiency of this maturation system by reengineering AID, and optimizing the nucleic acid sequence of the target antibody gene and AID gene as well as the protocol for AID gene transfection. These changes have increased both the mutation rate and the number of mutation type of antibody genes by more than 10 fold, and greatly improved the maturation efficiency of antibody/other proteins.
Adherence and acceptability of a robot-assisted Pivotal Response Treatment protocol for children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: van den Berk-Smeekens Iris , van Dongen-Boomsma Martine , De Korte Manon W. P. , Den Boer Jenny C. , Oosterling Iris J. , Peters-Scheffer Nienke C. , Buitelaar Jan K. , Barakova Emilia I. , Lourens Tino , Staal Wouter G. , Glennon Jeffrey C.
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study is to present a robot-assisted therapy protocol for children with ASD based on the current state-of-the-art in both ASD intervention research and robotics research, and critically evaluate its adherence and acceptability based on child as well as parent ratings. The robot-assisted therapy was designed based on motivational components of Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), a highly promising and feasible intervention focused at training “pivotal” (key) areas such as motivation for social interaction and self-initiations, with the goal of establishing collateral gains in untargeted areas of functioning and development, affected by autism spectrum disorders. Overall, children (3–8 y) could adhere to the robot-assisted therapy protocol (Mean percentage of treatment adherence 85.5%), showed positive affect ratings after therapy sessions (positive in 86.6% of sessions) and high robot likability scores (high in 79.4% of sessions). Positive likability ratings were mainly given by school-aged children (H(1) = 7.91, p = .005) and related to the movements, speech and game scenarios of the robot. Parent ratings on the added value of the robot were mainly positive (Mean of 84.8 on 0–100 scale), while lower parent ratings were related to inflexibility of robot behaviour.
Characterization of the global distribution and diversified plasmid reservoirs of the colistin resistance gene mcr-9
Authors: Li Ying , Dai Xiaoyi , Zeng Jing , Gao Yan , Zhang Zhikun , Zhang Luhua
Published: May 2020

The emergence and spread of mobilized colistin resistance (mcr) genes have triggered extensive concerns worldwide. Here, we characterized the global distribution of mcr-9, a newly-identified variant of mcr, by assembling the data set of mcr-9-positive isolates from GenBank database and the literature available. Genetic features of all the mcr-9-harboring plasmids were determined by bioinformatic analysis. We showed that mcr-9 is globally distributed in 21 countries across six continents, with a wide dissemination among various species of Enterobacteriaceae strains from human, animal, food and environment. IncHI2-ST1 plasmids were found to be the predominant replicon type carrying mcr-9. Comparative genomics highlighted that IncHI2-type plasmids may also serve as a critical reservoir of mcr-9, from which different types of circulating plasmids acquired the mcr-9. Results revealed that the rcnR-rcnA-pcoE-pcoS-IS903-mcr-9-wbuC structure was consistent in most mcr-9 cassettes, suggesting a relatively unitary model involved in the mobilization of mcr-9. It is most likely that the spread of mcr-9 was mainly attributed to the conjugation and recombination events of mcr-9-carrying plasmids. In summary, our results provide a comprehensive picture of the distribution and genetic environment of mcr-9, and demonstrate the central roles played by IncHI2 plasmids in the worldwide dissemination of mcr-9.
Effectiveness of serum beta-2 microglobulin as a tool for evaluating donor kidney status for transplantation
Authors: Cha Sung Whan , Shin In Sik , Kim Deok Gie , Kim Sung Hoon , Lee Jun Young , Kim Jae Seok , Yang Jae Won , Han Byoung-Geun , Choi Seung Ok
Published: May 2020

Kidney transplantations using expanded criteria donors (ECD) are being increasingly adopted, but no consensus tools are available to evaluate donor kidney status. Beta-2 microglobulin (B2MG) is a marker of kidney function, and herein, we evaluate the usefulness of assessing B2MG to evaluate donor kidney status. Fifty-seven kidney transplantations were performed from March 2017 to April 2019. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and relationships between clinical and laboratory variables and transplant outcomes were investigated. Thirty-eight patients received a standard criteria donor kidney and 19 patients an ECD kidney. Ten patients experienced delayed graft function (DGF), but no patient experienced primary nonfunction. Of the parameters studied, only donor renal replacement therapy (RRT) [odds ratio (OR) 24.162; p = 0.018] and donor serum B2MG (OR 22.685; p = 0.022) significantly predicted DGF. The presence of either of these two risk factors can better reflect the condition of the donor than previous classification. However, on their last follow-up creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate values in those with or without these risk factors were not significantly different. For an ECD with a B2MG level of <7.18 and no history of RRT, kidney transplantation can be undertaken without considering the possibility of kidney discard.
Tetracycline-inactivating enzymes from environmental, human commensal, and pathogenic bacteria cause broad-spectrum tetracycline resistance
Authors: Gasparrini Andrew J. , Markley Jana L. , Kumar Hirdesh , Wang Bin , Fang Luting , Irum Sidra , Symister Chanez T. , Wallace Meghan , Burnham Carey-Ann D. , Andleeb Saadia , Tolia Niraj H. , Wencewicz Timothy A. , Dantas Gautam
Published: May 2020

Tetracycline resistance by antibiotic inactivation was first identified in commensal organisms but has since been reported in environmental and pathogenic microbes. Here, we identify and characterize an expanded pool of tet(X)-like genes in environmental and human commensal metagenomes via inactivation by antibiotic selection of metagenomic libraries. These genes formed two distinct clades according to habitat of origin, and resistance phenotypes were similarly correlated. Each gene isolated from the human gut encodes resistance to all tetracyclines tested, including eravacycline and omadacycline. We report a biochemical and structural characterization of one enzyme, Tet(X7). Further, we identify Tet(X7) in a clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate and demonstrate its contribution to tetracycline resistance. Lastly, we show anhydrotetracycline and semi-synthetic analogues inhibit Tet(X7) to prevent enzymatic tetracycline degradation and increase tetracycline efficacy against strains expressing tet(X7). This work improves our understanding of resistance by tetracycline-inactivation and provides the foundation for an inhibition-based strategy for countering resistance.
Polyphenol oxidases exhibit promiscuous proteolytic activity
Authors: Biundo A. , Braunschmid V. , Pretzler M. , Kampatsikas I. , Darnhofer B. , Birner-Gruenberger R. , Rompel A. , Ribitsch D. , Guebitz G. M.
Published: May 2020

Tyrosinases catalyse both the cresolase and catecholase reactions for the formation of reactive compounds which are very important for industrial applications. In this study, we describe a proteolytic activity of tyrosinases. Two different tyrosinases originating from mushroom and apple are able to cleave the carboxylesterase EstA. The cleavage reaction correlates with the integrity of the active site of tyrosinase and is independent of other possible influencing factors, which could be present in the reaction. Therefore, the cleavage of EstA represents a novel functionality of tyrosinases. EstA was previously reported to degrade synthetic polyesters, albeit slowly. However, the EstA truncated by tyrosinase shows higher degradation activity on the non-biodegradable polyester polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is a well-established environmental threat.
High cycle life all-solid-state fluoride ion battery with La2NiO4+d high voltage cathode
Authors: Nowroozi Mohammad Ali , Wissel Kerstin , Donzelli Manuel , Hosseinpourkahvaz Niloofar , Plana-Ruiz Sergi , Kolb Ute , Schoch Roland , Bauer Matthias , Malik Ali Muhammad , Rohrer Jochen , Ivlev Sergei , Kraus Florian , Clemens Oliver
Published: May 2020

Fluoride ion batteries (FIBs) are a recent alternative all-solid-state battery technology. However, the FIB systems proposed so far suffer from poor cycling performance. In this work, we report La2NiO4.13 with a Ruddlesden-Popper type structure as an intercalation-based active cathode material in all solid-state FIB with excellent cycling performance. The critical charging conditions to maintain the conductivity of the cell were determined, which seems to be a major obstacle towards improving the cycling stability of FIBs. For optimized operating conditions, a cycle life of about 60 cycles and over 220 cycles for critical cut-off capacities of 50 mAh/g and 30 mAh/g, respectively, could be achieved, with average Coulombic efficiencies between 95 – 99%. Cycling of the cell is a result of fluorination/de-fluorination into and from the La2NiO4+d cathode, and it is revealed that La2NiO4.13 is a multivalent electrode material. Our findings suggest that La2NiO4.13 is a promising high energy cathode for FIBs.
Optimisation and feature selection of poly-beta-amino-ester as a drug delivery system for cartilage
Authors: Perni Stefano , Prokopovich Polina
Published: May 2020

Drug localisation is one of the main challenges in treating cartilage; poly-beta-amino-esters (PBAEs) drug conjugates are a possible solution; their efficacy depends on the polymer structure hence the full potential of this system is still unknown.
Comparative study of α-helical and β-sheet self-assembled peptide nanofiber vaccine platforms: influence of integrated T-cell epitopes
Authors: Wu Yaoying , Kelly Sean H. , Sanchez-Perez Luis , Sampson John H. , Collier Joel H.
Published: May 2020

Coil29 nanofibers with integral T cell epitopes generated strong humoral responses and B cell memory by eliciting additional Tfh cells.
Mechanistic guidelines in nonreductive conversion of CO2: the case of cyclic carbonates
Authors: Della Monica Francesco , Kleij Arjan W.
Published: May 2020

This perspective provides general mechanistic guidelines for the catalytic formation of cyclic organic carbonates from CO2 and cyclic ethers.
Application of Orbitrap mass spectrometry to investigate seasonal variations of dissolved organic matter composition in a eutrophic lake in Japan
Authors: Yuthawong Vitharuch , Kasuga Ikuro , Kurisu Futoshi , Furumai Hiroaki
Published: May 2020

Orbitrap mass spectrometry can reveal the composition of DOM and the fraction responsible for CODMn in an eutrophic lake.
On the role of a graphene oxide/titania catalyst, visible LED and ozone in removing mixtures of pharmaceutical contaminants from water and wastewater
Authors: Checa M. , Beltrán F. J. , Rivas F. J. , Cordero E.
Published: May 2020

Pharmaceuticals removal by photocatalytic ozonation: evaluation of radiation fluence, GO content and GO–TiO2 dosage synergies in ultrapure water photocatalytic ozonation. Two reaction kinetic periods proposed for wastewater photocatalytic ozonation.
TETT-functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles for DOX loading: a quantum mechanical study at the atomic scale
Authors: Datteo Martina , Ferraro Lorenzo , Seifert Gotthard , Di Valentin Cristiana
Published: May 2020

Quantum mechanical study of TETT-functionalized TiO2 Nanoparticles loaded by doxorubicin with applications in drug delivery and photodynamic therapy.
Fluoxetine scaffold to design tandem molecular antioxidants and green catalysts
Authors: Ribaudo Giovanni , Bortoli Marco , Ongaro Alberto , Oselladore Erika , Gianoncelli Alessandra , Zagotto Giuseppe , Orian Laura
Published: May 2020

We modified fluoxetine by incorporating a selenium nucleus enabling a hydroperoxide-inactivating, glutathione peroxidase (GPx)-like activity and paving the way for its use as green catalyst.
Double-network gels as polyelectrolyte gels with salt-insensitive swelling properties
Authors: Nakajima Tasuku , Chida Takaharu , Mito Kei , Kurokawa Takayuki , Gong Jian Ping
Published: May 2020

Unlike typical polyelectrolyte gels showing salt-sensitive swelling, double-network (DN) gels consisting of both polyelectrolyte and non-ionic polymer are resistant to salt-sensitive swelling owing to their contrasting two network structure.
A scalable Al–Ni alloy powder catalyst prepared by metallurgical microstructure control
Authors: Im Sang Won , Ahn Hehsang , Seo Da Hye , Park Sunghak , Choi Seungwoo , Ryu Wookha , Kim Kyungjun , Park Eun Soo , Nam Ki Tae
Published: May 2020

Metallurgical microstructure control of Al–Ni alloys enabled scalable and facile synthesis of large-area electrodes for alkaline hydrogen evolution catalysts comparable to conventional Pt catalysts.
A high-energy-density aqueous zinc–manganese battery with a La–Ca co-doped ε-MnO2 cathode
Authors: Zhang Manshu , Wu Weixing , Luo Jiawei , Zhang Haozhe , Liu Jie , Liu Xiaoqing , Yang Yangyi , Lu Xihong
Published: May 2020

A La–Ca co-doping strategy is employed to boost the energy density of ε-MnO2 cathode. The assembled Zn//ε-MnO2 battery can achieve an maximum energy of 401.22 W h kg−1.
Regulating the charge diffusion of two-dimensional cobalt–iron hydroxide/graphene composites for high-rate water oxidation
Authors: Tang Tang , Jiang Wen-Jie , Yuan Lu-Pan , Niu Shuai , Hu Jin-Song , Wan Li-Jun
Published: May 2020

The importance of charge diffusion in electrocatalysts is shown by regulating the thickness of CoFe hydroxide nanosheets on graphene. The few-layer nanosheets allow effective charge diffusion, enabling a 2000 mA cm−2 output at only 1.507 V cost in near-industrial conditions.
Oxygen defect engineering in double perovskite oxides for effective water oxidation
Authors: Zhu Yunmin , Zhong Xiao , Jin Shiguang , Chen Haijun , He Zuyun , Liu Qiuyu , Chen Yan
Published: May 2020

Generating oxygen vacancies in PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+δvia plasma treatment for strongly boosted oxygen evolution reaction activity.
SiO2@Cu7S4 nanotubes for photo/chemodynamic and photo-thermal dual-mode synergistic therapy under 808 nm laser irradiation
Authors: Sun Mingdi , Yang Dan , Fanqi Wu , Wang Zhao , Ji Hongjiao , Liu Zhiliang , Gai Shili , Zhang Fangmei , Yang Piaoping
Published: May 2020

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-based modality for tumor treatment that involves the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by the combination of light, a photosensitizer, and molecular oxygen.
Graphene-based reversible metal electrodeposition for dynamic infrared modulation
Authors: Li Mingyang , Liu Dongqing , Cheng Haifeng , Peng Liang , Zu Mei
Published: May 2020

Graphene-based dynamic infrared modulation devices were fabricated by reversibly electrodepositing metals on infrared-transparent graphene electrodes.
Enhancement of the thermoelectric performance of DPP based polymers by introducing one 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene electron-rich building block
Authors: Liu Zhitian , Hu Yanchuan , Li Pengcheng , Wen Jing , He Jungang , Gao Xiang
Published: May 2020

The incorporation of one 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) building block into a diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) based D–A conjugated polymer could facilitate the p-doping of a D–A conjugated polymer and improve thermoelectric performance.
Unraveling the role of cuprous oxide and boosting solar energy conversion via interface engineering in a Cu/TiO2 plasmonic photocatalyst
Authors: Yao Guo-Ying , Zhao Zong-Yan
Published: May 2020

The presence of Cu2O covering in Cu/TiO2 composite can move LSPR peak out of inter-band transition range, create more interfaces, induce Fano resonance effect, facilitate hot electron injection, and may constitute a Z-Scheme of Cu2O/Cu/TiO2.
Enhancement in the solar efficiency of a dye-sensitized solar cell by molecular engineering of an organic dye incorporating N-alkyl-attached 1,8-naphthalamide derivative
Authors: Sil Manik Chandra , Chen Li-Syuan , Lai Chin-Wei , Chang Cheng-Chung , Chen Chih-Ming
Published: May 2020

Controlling the orientation of the dye molecules adsorbed on the TiO2 surface needs extensive attention for improving the photovoltaic parameters of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Diverse topological states in a ternary NdAsPd compound
Authors: Yang Tie , Ding Guangqian , Cheng Zhenxiang , Wang Xiaotian , Zhang Gang
Published: May 2020

Diverse topological states are identified in the ternary compound NdAsPd.
Hydrogen oxidising bacteria for production of single‐cell protein and other food and feed ingredients
Authors: Pander Bart , Mortimer Zahara , Woods Craig , McGregor Callum , Dempster Andrew , Thomas Lisa , Maliepaard Joshua , Mansfield Robert , Rowe Peter , Krabben Preben
Published: May 2020

Using hydrogen oxidising bacteria to produce protein and other food and feed ingredients is a form of industrial biotechnology that is gaining traction. The technology fixes carbon dioxide into products without the light requirements of agriculture and biotech that rely on primary producers such as plants and algae while promising higher growth rates, drastically less land, fresh water, and mineral requirements. The significant body of scientific knowledge on hydrogen oxidising bacteria continues to grow and genetic engineering tools are well developed for specific species. The scale‐up success of other types of gas‐ fermentation using carbon monoxide or methane has paved the way for scale‐up of a process that uses a mix of hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide to produce bacteria as a food and feed ingredients in a highly sustainable fashion.
Study on lightning protection scheme of multi‐terminal MMC‐MVDC distribution system
Authors: Gao Yuqun , Han Yongxia , Xiao Fanglei , Chen Changfu , Zhang Jinghan , Zhang Jie , Zhang Yaqi , Li Licheng
Published: May 2020

Based on a ±10 kV three‐terminal MMC‐MVDC (medium voltage DC distribution system based on modular multilevel converter) system, in this study, the authors mainly study on the influencing factors and protection schemes of the lightning intruding overvoltage (including direct lightning and back‐flashover lightning). Firstly, a lightning intruding overvoltage simulation model of the MMC‐MVDC distribution system using overhead lines is established based on the PSCAD/EMTDC program. The influence of steady‐state operating voltage and the number of converter stations on the simulation results are simulated and analysed. Meanwhile, the proper simulation modelling method of the lightning intruding overvoltage for multi‐terminal MMC‐MVDC system is proposed. Secondly, the lightning intruding overvoltage is simulated when the line is struck by the lightning stroke current that occurs once in 20 years and the different lightning protection schemes are proposed. Finally, based on the lightning impulse withstand voltage, lightning trip‐out rate and the cost of the protection schemes, the lightning protection schemes in different scenarios are proposed. The simulation results show that if the cost of the system is prioritised, the protection scheme of increasing the number of parallel stacks of the DL arresters can be selected, and if the power supply reliability of the system is prioritised, the protection scheme of installing the overhead ground wire as well as reducing grounding resistance can be selected.
Observer‐based neural adaptive control of a platoon of autonomous tractor–trailer vehicles with uncertain dynamics
Authors: Elhaki Omid , Shojaei Khoshnam
Published: May 2020

This study addresses the platoon formation control problem of multiple off‐axle hitching tractor–trailers with limited communication ranges, under model uncertainties and external disturbances, without any collision and without velocity and acceleration measurements for the first time. Towards this end, a new second‐order Euler–Lagrange formulation of tractor–trailers is introduced under the prescribed performance design procedure that preserves all structural properties of the tractor–trailer dynamics. Then, a prescribed performance non‐linear transformation, a saturated filtered tracking error, radial basis function neural networks, an adaptive robust controller, and a high‐gain observer are creatively employed to design a novel platoon output‐feedback controller, which forces the vehicles to construct a desired convoy while guaranteeing the robust performance against unmodelled dynamics and external forces and ensuring inter‐vehicular communication maintenance, collision avoidance between each successive pair in the convoy of vehicles, and some preassigned desired response specifications of platoon formation errors including overshoot/undershoot, convergence speed, and ultimate tracking accuracy. By utilising a Lyapunov‐based stability analysis, a semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness of formation errors is ensured with prescribed performance. Finally, simulation results illustrate the efficacy of the proposed control system.
Sensitivity factors based transmission network topology control for violation relief
Authors: Li Xingpeng , S Korad Akshay , Balasubramanian Pranavamoorthy
Published: May 2020

Transmission networks consist of thousands of branches for large‐scale real power systems. They are built with a high degree of redundancy for reliability concerns. Thus, it is very likely that there exist various network topologies that can deliver continuous power supply to consumers. The optimal transmission network topology could be very different for different system conditions. Transmission network topology control (TNTC) can provide the operator with an additional option to manage network congestion, reduce losses, relieve violation, and achieve cost‐saving. This study examines the benefits of TNTC in reducing post‐contingency overloads that are identified by real‐time contingency analysis (RTCA). The procedure of RTCA with TNTC is presented, and two algorithms are proposed to determine the candidate switching solutions. Both algorithms use available system data: sensitivity factors or shifting factors. The proposed two TNTC approaches are based on the transmission switching distribution factor (TSDF) and flow transfer distribution factor (FTDF), respectively. FTDF‐based TNTC approach is an enhanced version of the TSDF‐based TNTC approach by considering network flow distribution. Numerical simulations demonstrate that both methods can effectively relieve flow violations and FTDF outperforms TSDF.
Signal processing techniques for synchrophasors considering short‐circuit signals: a comparative study
Authors: Lacerda Vinícius A. , Barbalho Pedro I.N. , Monaro Renato M. , Coury Denis V.
Published: May 2020

Synchrophasors represent the next step in the level of information available considering operation, protection, control and stability of power systems. Among the various different uses of synchrophasors, currently numerous studies have proposed improved power system protection strategies using phasor measurement units. As the core of synchrophasor construction is the signal processing technique used to estimate the local phasor, it is important to adopt proper estimation algorithms that improve protection algorithm performances. Therefore, this study compares the performance of different signal processing techniques (discrete Fourier transform, TLS‐estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariance technique, amplitude modulation model, recursive least‐squares, improved recursive Newton‐type algorithm and Robust Gauss–Newton) to estimate amplitude, phase and frequency of AC signals, including synthetic and fault signals. Several tests were performed, and characteristics such as precision, tolerance to noise and harmonic components, transient tracking and computational burden were analysed for each technique. The results showed that windowed techniques presented better precision than recursive techniques.
Genome-wide microsatellite characteristics of five human Plasmodium species, focusing on Plasmodium malariae and P. ovale curtisi
Authors: Mathema Vivek Bhakta , Nakeesathit Supatchara , White Nicholas J. , Dondorp Arjen M. , Imwong Mallika
Published: May 2020

Microsatellites can be utilized to explore genotypes, population structure, and other genomic features of eukaryotes. Systematic characterization of microsatellites has not been a focus for several species of Plasmodium, including P. malariae and P. ovale, as the majority of malaria elimination programs are focused on P. falciparum and to a lesser extent P. vivax. Here, five human malaria species (P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale curtisi, and P. knowlesi) were investigated with the aim of conducting in-depth categorization of microsatellites for P. malariae and P. ovale curtisi. Investigation of reference genomes for microsatellites with unit motifs of 1–10 base pairs indicates high diversity among the five Plasmodium species. Plasmodium malariae, with the largest genome size, displays the second highest microsatellite density (1421 No./Mbp; 5% coverage) next to P. falciparum (3634 No./Mbp; 12% coverage). The lowest microsatellite density was observed in P. vivax (773 No./Mbp; 2% coverage). A, AT, and AAT are the most commonly repeated motifs in the Plasmodium species. For P. malariae and P. ovale curtisi, microsatellite-related sequences are observed in approximately 18–29% of coding sequences (CDS). Lysine, asparagine, and glutamic acids are most frequently coded by microsatellite-related CDS. The majority of these CDS could be related to the gene ontology terms “cell parts,” “binding,” “developmental processes,” and “metabolic processes.” The present study provides a comprehensive overview of microsatellite distribution and can assist in the planning and development of potentially useful genetic tools for further investigation of P. malariae and P. ovale curtisi epidemiology.
Identification of potential molecular mechanisms of radiation pneumonitis development in non-small-cell lung cancer treatment by data mining
Authors: Zhu L. , Zhang J. , Xia B. , Chen S. , Xu Y.
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Radiation pneumonitis (RP) is the most significant dose-limiting toxicity in patients receiving thoracic radiotherapy. The underlying mechanisms of RP are still inconclusive. Our objective was to determine the genes and molecular pathways associated with RP using computational tools and publicly available data. Methods: RP-associated genes were determined by text mining, and the intersection of the two gene sets was selected for Gene Ontology analysis using the GeneCodis program. Protein-protein interaction network analysis was performed using STRINGdb to identify the final genes. Results: Our analysis identified 256 genes related to RP with text mining. The enriched biological process annotations resulted in 47 sets of annotations containing a total of 156 unique genes. KEGG analysis of the enriched pathways identified 24 pathways containing a total of 41 unique genes. The protein-protein interaction analysis yielded 23 genes (mostly the PI3K family). Conclusion: Gene discovery using in silico text mining and pathway analysis tools can facilitate the identification of the underlying mechanisms of RP.
Moderne Strahlenbelastung bei Tieren – Ganzheitliche Behandlung eines zunehmenden Problems
Authors: Sonnenschmidt Rosina
Published: May 2020

Mensch und Tier sind unter alltäglichen Bedingungen in hohem Maße nichtionisierender Strahlung ausgesetzt. Mögliche Folgen sind unter anderem Defekte an Mitochondrien, Zellmembranen und DNA. Neben der Behandlung eventueller Folgeschäden zielt der ganzheitliche Ansatz auf die Erfassung möglicher Strahlungsquellen und die Vermeidung unnötiger elektromagnetischer Strahlung ab. Neue Wirkstoffe wie Oleander torimaki, Rizol Omega und A oder zusätzliche Schüßler-Salze erweitern das therapeutische Spektrum.
Bundesweite Bestandsaufnahme zum Konstrukt Gesundheitskompetenz aus der Perspektive der Profession Physiotherapie
Authors: Wirner Corinna , Pott Claudia , Kirschneck Michaela , Coenen Michaela
Published: May 2020

In einer bundesweiten Online-Befragung unter Angehörigen der Profession Physiotherapie (PT) wurde der Frage nachgegangen, welche Rolle das Thema Gesundheitskompetenz (GK) für das berufliche Selbstverständnis von Physiotherapeut/innen spielt. Das Konstrukt GK wird von Physiotherapeut/innen als wichtig in der Arbeit mit Patient /innen betrachtet. Mangelnde zeitliche Ressourcen wurden mehrheitlich als hemmender Faktor hinsichtlich der Auseinandersetzung mit dem Thema und der Integration in den klinischen Alltag genannt. Fachartikel und Fortbildungsangebote zum Thema GK sind zusätzlich zur Verankerung in Ausbildung und Studium notwendig, um den Kenntnistand von GK und deren Relevanz für die Versorgung von Patient/in der Profession PT zu stärken.
Ginkgo biloba and Its Constituent 6-hydroxykynurenic-acid as well as Its Proanthocyanidins Exert Neurorestorative Effects against Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Yao Jianbiao , Qiao Hongxiang , Jin Zhuming , Wang Ruwei , Huang Haibo , Fang Ling , Chen Yan , Tai Khalid , Chen Yan , Doeppner Thorsten Roland , Chen Zhong , Kuchta Kenny
Published: May 2020

Neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury by Ginkgo biloba leaves are commonly attributed to the antioxidant activity of its proanthocyanidins. Furthermore, preliminary experiments identified 6-hydroxykynurenic acid (6-HKA) as a major contributor to this effect of extract of G. biloba leaves (EGb) prepared according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (ChP). In order to elucidate the specific contribution of both proanthocyanidins and 6-HKA to the overall neurorestorative effects of this extract according to ChP, EGb ChP was separated into pure 6-HKA and a newly developed Ginkgo proanthocyanidin extract (GPE), enriched in proanthocyanidins but not containing 6-HKA. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into the groups: sham: 8; model (placebo): 25; GPE 80 mg/kg: 13; GPE 40 mg/kg: 13; GPE 20 mg/kg: 16; grape seed extract (negative control) 40 mg/kg: 18; nimodipine (positive control) 2 mg/kg: 8. All non-sham animals were subjected to cerebral I/R injury by occluding the middle cerebral artery with a nylon suture that was removed after 2 h of ischemia to establish reperfusion. For comparison, a parallel series of experiments were performed with 6-HKA. In these in vivo experiments, neurological dysfunctions were reduced by both GPE and 6-HKA, and both average infarct size and concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and super oxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly ameliorated as compared to the model group. This data, therefore, demonstrates that the neuroprotective effects of EGb cannot be explained by a purely chemical antioxidative effect alone as has been previously proposed, especially with regards to the proanthocyanidins. A pharmacological neurorestorative effect of EGb on neurons and brain tissue itself seems to be a much more straightforward explanation for the presented observations. This effect is most likely explained by the synergistic action of both its numerous phenolic constituents (GPE) and 6-hydroxykynurenic acid (6-HKA), which could be identified as one major contributor to the observed activity.
Renovaskuläre Effekte von SGLT-2-Inhibitoren
Authors: Hohenstein Bernd , Hugo Christian
Published: May 2020

Für Diabetes mellitus als eine der kostenintensivsten Erkrankungen weltweit entstand in vielen Jahrzehnten durch zahlreiche Studien ein detailliertes Bild von der optimierten Therapie hinsichtlich mikro- und makrovaskulärer Folgeerkrankungen. Neben der Kontrolle der Hyperglykämie kommt vor allem der RAS-Blockade eine wichtige Bedeutung als nephroprotektiver Ansatz zu. Die Einführung der SGLT-2-Inhibitoren und GLP-1-Analoga hat in den letzten Jahren zu protektiven Effekten bei Patienten mit Typ-2-Diabetes und Nierenschädigung geführt – nicht nur hinsichtlich der kardiovaskulären Morbidität und Mortalität, sondern vor allem im Hinblick auf die Hemmung der Erkrankungsprogression, der Proteinurie und des Eintritts des terminalen Nierenversagens mit Dialysepflichtigkeit. Mechanismus und Ausmaß der Effekte stellen daher die Basis für weitergehende, sämtliche chronischen Nierenerkrankungen einbeziehende Interventionsstudien dar.
Kardiovaskuläre Effekte von SGLT-2-Inhibitoren
Authors: Mustroph Julian , Neef Stefan
Published: May 2020

SGLT-2-Inhibitoren sind in den letzten Jahren zunehmend in den Fokus der Diabetologen, aber auch der Kardiologen gerückt. Große Studien zeigen eine Verbesserung der kardiovaskulären Mortalität und Morbidität bei mit SGLT-2-Inhibitoren behandelten Typ-2-Diabetespatienten – insbesondere eine Reduktion der kardiovaskulären und gesamten Mortalität sowie der Hospitalisation wegen Herzinsuffizienz. Neue Studien belegen eine solche Wirksamkeit der „Gliflozine“ bei Herzinsuffizienz auch bei Menschen ohne Diabetes. Immer mehr wird klar, dass der Wirkmechanismus dieser Substanzen noch nicht vollständig verstanden ist und dass möglicherweise auch weitere Patientengruppen von einer Gliflozintherapie profitieren könnten. Der Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die aktuelle Daten- und Zulassungslage.
Targeted Therapy and Traditional Chemotherapy in Melanoma and Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Vincent T. , Haring Catherine T. , Warrier Govind , Swiecicki Paul L.
Published: May 2020

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and melanoma encompass the majority of all malignant skin cancers. There has been an increase in their incidence globally in recent decades. In cases of high-risk, unresectable, or metastatic disease; or when patient factors or preferences limit the availability of conventional surgery or radiotherapy; or a systemic therapy is often warranted. Our improved understanding of the molecular and immune pathogenesis underlying tumor growth and development has been critical in advancing cancer therapeutics. Over the past several years, several new systemic agents have been approved for both diseases. The role of cytotoxic chemotherapy is gradually waning with the introduction of targeted therapy and immunotherapy. In this article, we review the current and relevant literature and evidence of cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings for cSCC and melanoma. Additionally, we describe their role in the unresectable or metastatic disease setting.
Mohs Surgery versus Standard Local Excision for Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma Skin Cancer
Authors: Johnson Timothy M. , Smith Noah R.
Published: May 2020

Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma represent the three most common skin cancers that occur on the face. The most common surgical treatments for facial skin cancers are Mohs surgery and standard local excision. The effective utilization of either of these techniques is based on tumor and patient risk stratification incorporating known risk factors for occult invasion and local recurrence, combined with patient comorbidities, expectations, and desires. Best available evidence highlights multiple and consistent risk factors for each specific skin cancer type, and dictate local control rates reported in the literature. Recognizing gaps in the literature, we compare and review surgical treatment guidelines and data for standard local excision versus Mohs surgery for cutaneous nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer. This article serves as a resource for optimal therapeutic decision making for surgical management of skin cancer on the face.
Improved Visualization by Central Subluxation of the Lateral Meniscus in Comminuted Lateral Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Krause Matthias , Guttowski Dario , Püschel Klaus , Kolb Jan Philipp , Hartel Maximilian , Frosch Karl-Heinz
Published: May 2020

The goal of surgical reconstruction of comminuted tibial plateau fractures is an anatomical reconstruction and stable fixation of the articular surface. This can be difficult due to poor visualization of the posterolateral and central segments of the articular surface of the proximal tibia. To improve visualization, the lateral approach can be extended with an osteotomy of the femoral epicondyle. In most cases, use of the extended lateral approach allows the whole lateral plateau to be visualized. Nevertheless, in some cases, an osteotomy alone is not enough to expose the entire fracture, especially the central segments of the tibial plateau. For these specific cases, we developed an additional technical trick that significantly improves articular visualization; the lateral meniscocapsular fibers are dissected allowing for central subluxation of the lateral meniscus, while leaving the anterior and posterior roots intact. With central subluxation of the lateral meniscus in comminuted tibial plateau fractures, the joint surface can be completely visualized, allowing an anatomical reduction even in highly complex fractures.
Locked Wrist: A Case Report and Literature Review on Pisotriquetral Loose Bodies
Authors: Thompson R. Gil , Poulis George C. , Lourie Gary M.
Published: May 2020

Background Pisotriquetral (PT) loose bodies have been described in the literature only a few times as case reports. While PT pathology remains the differential for ulnar-sided wrist pain, it can often be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can be variable and radiographic imaging may be negative for any findings.

Case Description A 24-year-old major league baseball player presented with pain and locking of his wrist during follow through of his bat swing. Plain radiographic imaging, as well as computed tomography (CT) imaging, was negative for any pathology. Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a loose body which entered the PT joint when the wrist was moved into a flexed position. This caused entrapment of the loose body and locking of the wrist.

Literature Review A total of 17 reported patients in the literature have been diagnosed with a PT loose body. The clinical examination findings, radiographic findings, and surgical findings are reviewed.

Case Relevance PT loose bodies can present a challenging clinical picture to diagnose. The purpose of this case report is to review the appropriate clinical workup, including common examination findings and advanced imaging techniques, to help the clinician with the diagnosis.
Jérôme Lalande, Giuseppe Toaldo and the translation of astronomical works
for a wider public in the 1700s
Authors: Dagenais Simon
Published: May 2020

This chapter analyses the French and
Italian translations of books written by the astronomers Jérôme Lalande and Giuseppe
Toaldo. Both authors aimed to reach wide readerships, the former through his
Abrégé d’astronomie (1774),
and the latter with
Della vera
influenza degli astri, delle stagioni, e mutazioni di tempo
(1770) and
Essai de
météorologie appliquée à l’agriculture (1775), which were driven
by the Enlightenment ideal of disseminating knowledge. Toaldo in particular targeted
peasants in his works with his astro-meteorology and its application to agriculture.
This chapter analyses Toaldo’s translation of Lalande’s Traité, and
the physician Joseph Daquin’s translation of Toaldo’s 1770 treatise.
Travelling knowledge in nineteenth-century science
Authors: Meneghello Laura
Published: May 2020

Focusing on the work of the materialist
Jacob Moleschott (’s-Hertogenbosch 1822-Rome 1893), this chapter argues for the
fundamental role played by translation in the development and dissemination of
scientific knowledge and scientific epistemology in nineteenth-century Europe, with
Moleschott’s transnational biography illustrating practices of translation as well
as the dynamics of negotiation and circulation of knowledge. Three aspects that
exemplify processes of translation will be considered: first, Moleschott’s work as a
translator (e.g. of Gerrit Jan Mulder) and the translation of his work by Cesare
Lombroso; second, his role as a disseminator, involving the transfer of concepts
between science and politics; and third, his engagement in practices of cultural
translation between disciplines and nation-states.
Paratexts in sixteenth-century editions and translations of Maciej z Miechowa’s
Tractatus de duabus Sarmatiis
Authors: Metan Saskia
Published: May 2020

In 1517 the Cracovian scholar Maciej z
Miechowa published Tractatus de duabus Sarmatiis, the first work in
Renaissance geography which offered detailed information about
Sarmatia, the region between the Vistula and the Caspian Sea.
Published in several Latin editions, the treatise initiated the humanists’
scientific exchange of geographical knowledge about Eastern Europe. Moreover,
translations in German, Polish, Dutch and Italian appeared, also addressing a
non-scholarly readership. Although the literature on Maciej z Miechowa notes that the
Tractatus has been broadly disseminated, its translations
have been understudied. This is the purpose of the present chapter, which also
highlights how the various translations of the Tractatus have led
to significant modifications regarding the source text and its paratexts.
Stress assignment and foot construction in a Southwestern Saudi Arabic
dialect
Authors: Alahmari Musa
Published: May 2020

This paper presents and analyzes some aspects of the stress
system of a Southwestern Saudi Arabic dialect (SSA). In an Optimality-Theoretic
framework, the analysis focuses on issues related to how feet are constructed in
this dialect as well as how stress is assigned in the language under the effect of
geminates and long vowels. In the presented analysis, I argue that the stress
pattern of SSA is a moraic trochee binary stress system in which ternary effects
arise as a result of Weak Local Parsing that is responsible for the
pre-antepenultimate stress in the language (Hayes, 1995). I also argue that the analysis of stress assignment under
the effect of geminates and long vowels is prominence-based in such a way that
stress is assigned to the heaviest syllable in the word in a scalar
quantity-sensitivity stress system that gives priority to syllables that are
inherently bimoraic. The analysis seeks a unified account that interacts with other
aspects of the phonology in the investigated dialect such as high vowel deletion and
the quality of word-final vowels.
The Purpose of Senatorial Grandstanding during Supreme Court Confirmation Hearings
Authors: Schoenherr Jessica A. , Lane Elizabeth A. , Armaly Miles T.
Published: May 2020

US Supreme Court confirmation hearings provide senators with an opportunity to engage a potential justice on a nationwide stage. Senators probe for information about future behavior on the bench. Nominees work through the questions, oscillating between forthcoming and vague responses. Such behavior encourages popular narratives that characterize this intricate dance as a “vapid and hollow charade.” We challenge this wisdom and argue that senators use these hearings to provide meaningful representation to their constituents while simultaneously supporting copartisan efforts regarding the nominee. We examine the exchanges in 185 senator-nominee pairings that span nearly 30 years of confirmation hearings. Our results show that senators from both parties increase their question-asking activity during divided government, when confirmation success is more dubious. Senators from the president’s party ask fewer questions when their constituents support the nominee, however, suggesting that popular support can attenuate this general effect for senators expecting a successful confirmation.
Law and Politics in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights
Authors: Stiansen Øyvind , Naurin Daniel , Bøyum Live Standal
Published: May 2020

International courts are increasingly affecting domestic and international politics and are receiving increased attention in political science research. In addition to their political importance, international courts provide new opportunities for testing theories of judicial politics, yet further progress requires access to data, particularly on the courts that have so far received less scrutiny. This article introduces a new database on Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR) judgments. The database contains information on case proceedings, judicial behavior, judgment content, the actors involved, and compliance with remedial orders. The current version of the database contains data on 201 IACtHR cases. We illustrate how the database can be used to address important questions in judicial politics by analyzing whether the propensity of the IACtHR to rule against a responding state correlates with the positions taken by the same state early in the proceedings before the court. We find evidence of such a relationship.
Mass Digitization of Chinese Court Decisions
Authors: Liebman Benjamin L. , Roberts Margaret E. , Stern Rachel E. , Wang Alice Z.
Published: May 2020

Since 2014, Chinese courts have placed tens of millions of court judgments online. We analyze the promise and pitfalls of using this new data source, highlighting takeaways for readers facing similar issues using other collections of legal texts. Drawing on 1,058,986 documents from Henan Province, we identify problems with missing data and call on scholars to treat variation in court disclosure rates as an urgent research question. We also outline strategies for learning from a corpus that is vast and incomplete. Using a topic model of administrative litigation in Henan, we complicate conventional wisdom that administrative lawsuits are an extension of contentious politics that give Chinese citizens an opportunity to challenge the state. Instead, we find a high prevalence of administrative cases that reflect an underlying dispute between two private parties, suggesting that administrative lawsuits are often an attempt to enlist help from the state in resolving an underlying civil dispute.