bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New advances in the research of stimulated emission depletion super-resolution microscopy
Authors: Wang Jia-Lin , Yan Wei , Zhang Jia , Wang Lu-Wei , Yang Zhi-Gang , Qu Jun-Le ,   Optoelectronic Device and System, Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Guangdong Province, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
Published: December 2020

Due to the influence of the diffraction limit, the lateral spatial resolution and axial spatial resolution of traditional optical microscopes are limited to ~200 nm and ~500 nm, respectively. In the past two decades, with the rapid development of high-intensity lasers, high-sensitivity detectors and other optoelectronic devices, there have been reported many super-resolution imaging techniques that bypass the optical diffraction limit with different methods. Among these techniques, stimulated emission depletion microscopy (STED) technology has the advantages of high imaging resolution and fast imaging speed. This technology uses two lasers for imaging, one of which is used to excite fluorescence, and the other donut-shaped depletion laser is used to suppress the emission of fluorescent molecules around the fluorescent spot, in order to reduce the fluorescence point spread function and achieve super resolution Imaging. After recent years of development, the STED system has got great progress no matter from the generation, calibration and scanning of the beam, and the final imaging. In terms of laser source, new laser sources such as continuous wave beams, supercontinuum laser, stimulated Raman scattered laser, and higher-order Bessel beams have appeared; in scanning and calibration, new efficiency technology such as parallel scanning and automatic calibration have also appeared; In imaging, new methods such as time gating and phasor analysis have emerged to improve imaging quality. These new technologies and methods are of great significance to improve the efficiency of STED system construction and imaging. In addition, this paper also focuses on the ways to expand the imaging functions of the STED system. First, for three-dimensional STED imaging, this paper mainly introduces three methods to realize three-dimensional STED imaging by wavefront non-coherent adjustment, 4Pi and structured light illumination methods. Second, for multi-color imaging, this paper introduces several dual-color and multi-color imaging techniques for special dyes. Third, this paper introduces the combination of STED technology with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy technology, cell expansion technology, scanning ion-conductance microscope, photo-activated localization microscopy/stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy and other technologies. Finally, this paper systematically discusses the new research progress of STED technology in recent years, and discusses the future development trend of STED technology.
Mechanistic insights into volatile anesthetic modulation of K2P channels
Authors: Wague Aboubacar , Joseph Thomas T , Woll Kellie A , Bu Weiming , Vaidya Kiran A , Bhanu Natarajan V , Garcia Benjamin A , Nimigean Crina M , Eckenhoff Roderic G , Riegelhaupt Paul M
Published: December 2020

K2P potassium channels are known to be modulated by volatile anesthetic (VA) drugs and play important roles in clinically relevant effects that accompany general anesthesia. Here, we utilize a photoaffinity analog of the VA isoflurane to identify a VA-binding site in the TREK1 K2P channel. The functional importance of the identified site was validated by mutagenesis and biochemical modification. Molecular dynamics simulations of TREK1 in the presence of VA found multiple neighboring residues on TREK1 TM2, TM3, and TM4 that contribute to anesthetic binding. The identified VA-binding region contains residues that play roles in the mechanisms by which heat, mechanical stretch, and pharmacological modulators alter TREK1 channel activity and overlaps with positions found to modulate TASK K2P channel VA sensitivity. Our findings define molecular contacts that mediate VA binding to TREK1 channels and suggest a mechanistic basis to explain how K2P channels are modulated by VAs.
Conformation of the nuclear pore in living cells is modulated by transport state
Authors: Pulupa Joan , Prior Harriet , Johnson Daniel S , Simon Sanford M
Published: December 2020

While the static structure of the nuclear pore complex (NPC) continues to be refined with cryo-EM and x-ray crystallography, in vivo conformational changes of the NPC remain under-explored. We developed sensors that report on the orientation of NPC components by rigidly conjugating mEGFP to different NPC proteins. Our studies show conformational changes to select domains of nucleoporins (Nups) within the inner ring (Nup54, Nup58, Nup62) when transport through the NPC is perturbed and no conformational changes to Nups elsewhere in the NPC. Our results suggest that select components of the NPC are flexible and undergo conformational changes upon engaging with cargo.
Determining the probability of hemiplasy in the presence of incomplete lineage sorting and introgression
Authors: Hibbins Mark S , Gibson Matthew JS , Hahn Matthew W
Published: December 2020

The incongruence of character states with phylogenetic relationships is often interpreted as evidence of convergent evolution. However, trait evolution along discordant gene trees can also generate these incongruences – a phenomenon known as hemiplasy. Classic comparative methods do not account for discordance, resulting in incorrect inferences about the number, timing, and direction of trait transitions. Biological sources of discordance include incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) and introgression, but only ILS has received theoretical consideration in the context of hemiplasy. Here, we present a model that shows introgression makes hemiplasy more likely, such that methods that account for ILS alone will be conservative. We also present a method and software (HeIST) for making statistical inferences about the probability of hemiplasy and homoplasy in large datasets that contain both ILS and introgression. We apply our methods to two empirical datasets, finding that hemiplasy is likely to contribute to the observed trait incongruences in both.
Remodeling of whole-body lipid metabolism and a diabetic-like phenotype caused by loss of CDK1 and hepatocyte division
Authors: Ow Jin Rong , Caldez Matias J , Zafer Gözde , Foo Juat Chin , Li Hong Yu , Ghosh Soumita , Wollmann Heike , Cazenave-Gassiot Amaury , Ong Chee Bing , Wenk Markus R , Han Weiping , Choi Hyungwon , Kaldis Philipp
Published: December 2020

Cell cycle progression and lipid metabolism are well-coordinated processes required for proper cell proliferation. In liver diseases that arise from dysregulated lipid metabolism, hepatocyte proliferation is diminished. To study the outcome of CDK1 loss and blocked hepatocyte proliferation on lipid metabolism and the consequent impact on whole-body physiology, we performed lipidomics, metabolomics, and RNA-seq analyses on a mouse model. We observed reduced triacylglycerides in liver of young mice, caused by oxidative stress that activated FOXO1 to promote the expression ofPnpla2/ATGL. Additionally, we discovered that hepatocytes displayed malfunctioning β-oxidation, reflected by increased acylcarnitines (ACs) and reduced β-hydroxybutyrate. This led to elevated plasma free fatty acids (FFAs), which were transported to the adipose tissue for storage and triggered greater insulin secretion. Upon aging, chronic hyperinsulinemia resulted in insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis through activation of LXR. Here, we demonstrate that loss of hepatocyte proliferation is not only an outcome but also possibly a causative factor for liver pathology.
Impact of lattice inclusion of Cu and Fe ions on thermal decomposition characteristics of ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Nair Savitha , Mathew Suresh , Nair Reghunadhan C.P.
Published: December 2020

Ammonium perchlorate (AP) is the universal oxidiser in use for all the solid rocket propellant motors used for space exploration due to its high available oxygen content and thermal decomposition without any solid residue. The inclusion of reactive species in AP directly affect the viscoelastic and ballistic properties of the propellant. Variations in lattice configuration of AP change its physical and thermal characteristics dramatically. In the present work AP was doped with Copper perchlorate and Iron perchlorate through co crystallisation. The impact of inclusion of these ionic species in the lattice on the thermal decomposition characteristics of AP was examined. The incorporation affected the physical as well as the ballistic characteristics of the resultant AP. The incorporation of foreign ions into AP crystals significantly changed the crystal morphology. The decomposition temperature decreased vis-a-vis with normal AP. The activation energy remarkably decreased for the doped AP crystals.
Effect of a HIIT protocol on the lower limb muscle power, ankle dorsiflexion and dynamic balance in a sedentary type 1 diabetes mellitus population: a pilot study
Authors: Alarcón-Gómez Jesús , Martin Rivera Fernando , Madera Joaquin , Chulvi-Medrano Iván
Published: December 2020

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is commonly associated with premature loss of muscle function, ankle dorsiflexion and dynamic balance. Those impairments, usually, lead to physical functionality deterioration. High-intensity interval training is an efficient and safety methodology since it prevents hypoglycemia and not requires much time, which are the main barriers for this population to practice exercise and increase physical conditioning. We hypothesized that a 6-week HIIT program performed on a cycle ergometer would increase lower limb muscle power, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance without hypoglycemic situations.

Methods

A total of 19 diagnosed T1DM subjects were randomly assigned to HIIT group (n = 11; 6-week HIIT protocol) or Control group (n = 8; no treatment). Lower limb strength was evaluated through velocity execution in squat with three different overloads. Weight bearing lunge test (WBLT) was performed to test ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and Y-Balance test (YBT) was the test conducted to analyze dynamic balance performance.

Results

Velocity in squat improved a 11.3%, 9.4% and 10.1% (p < 0.05) with the 50%, 60% and 70% of their own body mass overload respectively, WBLT performance increased a 10.43% in the right limb and 15.45% in the left limb. YBT showed improvements in all directions (right limb-left limb): Anterior (4.3–6.1%), Posteromedial (1.8–5.2%) and Posterolateral (3.4–4.5%) in HIIT group (p < 0.05), unlike control group that did not experience any significant change in any of the variables (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

A 6-week HIIT program is safe and effective to improve execution velocity in squat movement, a fundamental skill in daily living activities, as well as ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance to reduce foot ulcers, risk falls and functional impairments. HIIT seems an efficient and safety training methodology not only for overcome T1DM barriers for exercising but also for improving functional capacities in T1DM people.
A methodology for examining the association between plasma volume and micronutrient biomarker mass and concentration in healthy eumenorrheic women
Authors: Aguree Sixtus , Gernand Alison D.
Published: December 2020

Background

Accurate estimation and interpretation of nutritional biomarker concentrations are important in nutritional research, clinical care, and public health surveillance. Plasma volume (PV) may affect the interpretation of plasma biomarkers but is rarely measured. We aimed to examine the association between plasma volume (PV) and micronutrient biomarker concentrations and mass as part of pilot work to develop methods.

Methods

Nine healthy women with regular menstrual cycles provided fasting blood samples to measure micronutrient biomarkers. Indocyanine green was injected, and five timed blood draws were taken from 2 to 5 min to measure PV. Visits were scheduled around menstrual cycle day 2. Retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, riboflavin, alpha-tocopherol, zinc, copper, magnesium, manganese, cobalt, iron, and ferritin concentrations were measured in serum. Total circulating micronutrient biomarker mass was calculated from PV and concentration.

Results

The mean PV was 2067 ±  470 mL. PV correlated positively with concentration of iron (r = 0.87, P = 0.005); other correlations were weaker with p > 0.05. PV and total mass of retinol (r = 0.90), 25(OH)D (r = 0.75), zinc (r = 0.88), copper (r = 0.83), magnesium (r = 0.93), manganese (r = 0.72), and iron (r = 0.92) were strongly correlated (all p < 0.05). PV was positively correlated with circulating micronutrient mass for most biomarkers, implying that concentrations are maintained at different volumes of plasma. Larger studies are needed to further examine these relationships.

Conclusion

Though there appear to be some association between micronutrient biomarker mass and plasma volume, we are unable to draw a firm conclusion about any relationship from these results because of the small sample size. We consider these findings as a preliminary analysis to establish methods for future studies.
Phenotypic Pattern of Vibrio choleraeIsolates from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Authors: Barve Sonia Sandeep , Prabhala Srujana , Javadekar Tanuja Bakul , Nanda Sandeep Om
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae (V.cholerae). Based on antigenic differences of O antigen, O1 serogroup can be divided into three serotypes. In addition, by performing various biochemical reactions, O1 Serogroup can be differentiated into two biotypes. Outbreaks of Cholera occur seasonally. It is associated with monsoon season, warm temperature, heavy rainfall and increased plankton population. Aim: The aim was to determine the trends in resistance pattern and phenotypic Pattern of Vibrio cholerae. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted during the period from June 2019-December 2019. Culture of Stool specimens were done on different agar media. Biotyping was done by conventional methods. Serotyping and phage typing was also done along with the Antibiotic susceptibility testing. Descriptive analysis was used and presented in terms of percentage. Results:V.cholerae was isolated in 72 patients and they belonged to serogroup O1 and biotype El Tor. The most common serotype was Ogawa. The predominant phage type were T2 by old scheme and T27 by new scheme of phage typing. The maximum number of V. cholerae isolates was seen in the month of November, 2019 followed by October, 2019. Conclusion: The phenotypic pattern and fluctuating seasonal trend of V. cholerae and antimicrobial resistance encourage the continued epidemiological and microbiological surveillance of the disease.
Assessment of Relationship between Galectin-3 and Biochemical Parameters in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Alouffi Sultan , Alsalloom Ahmed , Alharbi Menawer , Khan Wajid , Tamimi Waleed
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Cardiovascular complications are considered as the main cause of mortality in patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) includes disorders of the Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) of the heart which is the most frequent cardiac alteration in ESRD. Galectin-3 (GAL-3), a β-galactoside-binding protein has been proposed to be a new clinical biomarker that reflects cardiac fibrosis in patients with Heart Failure (HF). Aim: To evaluate the relationship between GAL-3 and biochemical parameters in Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) patients with and without LVH. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 45 patients (25 women and 20 men) with ESRD who were categorised as having CVD with (n=12) or without (n=33) LVH. Demographic, biochemical and clinical characteristics of 45 patients were analysed. The relationship of plasma GAL-3 levels was analysed with the biochemical parameters for both the groups of patients. For comparison between groups, Student unpaired t-test was used for the data of normal distribution while Mann-Whitney test was used for data of non-Gaussian distribution. Pearson’s correlation test was performed to examine various correlations. Results: Significantly high number (83.3%) of female patients were observed in ESRD with LVH. The groups did not differ significantly in their demographic, and biochemical and clinical parameters. There was significant increase in Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Diameters (LVEDD), Left Ventricular (LV) mass and LV mass index in patients with LVH as compared to the patients without LVH. The levels of GAL-3 showed slight increase (91±23.98 ng/mL) levels in LVH patients as compared to the patients without LVH (83.68±32.8 ng/mL). Exponential positive correlation between serum levels of GAL-3 and creatinine in ESRD patients without LVH (r=0.563, p=0.001). GAL-3 also showed positive correlations with urea without (r=0.563, p=0.001) as well as and uric acid (r=0.416, p=0.0178) for ESRD patients without LVH. However, GAL-3 showed no association with uric acid and urea (r=0.04487, p=0.896; r=0.2383, p=0.48) in ESRD patients with LVH. Conclusion: GAL-3 positively correlated to the biochemical parameters in ESRD patients. Patients with LVH only showed positive correlation between GAL-3 and creatinine. Moreover, GAL-3 could not be used as the biomarker because it did not correlate with established diagnostic parameter like LV mass and LV mass index. Hence, in this study GAL-3 is not a potential clinical biomarker for the progression of cardiovascular complications in ESRD patients. Overall, these data reflect the need for further investigation of GAL-3 to HF in patients with ESRD.
Computer Aided Training - A Variable of the Modern Romanian Educational Process in the Knowledge Society
Authors: Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile , Lauran Alexandru
Published: December 2020

Computer and multimedia learning is still an active teaching method. Computer-assisted and computer-based training allows an education based on the intellectual profile of the student and beyond. It also puts the student in situations of interaction and rapid communication, made in a favorable environment that allows massive dissemination of the created content and time flexibility by combining synchronous and asynchronous means of communication. In the case of computer-assisted instruction, the interactivity is practically generalized, providing the learner with permanent feedback, as visible and immediate effects occur on the computer screen. Today, computer-assisted instruction involves efficient research of the student's work, supervised and guided by the teacher (even in the current conditions dictated by the pandemic), which helps him in performing technical operations, in identifying the links between information and documentation, leading him to a new form of knowledge (digital knowledge). Achieving the objectives of the educational process requires as necessary, in different stages of learning, the intuition of processes and phenomena of reality, either directly or through substitutes. At the same time, the formation of skills and abilities requires the presence of material supports for practicing actions. Through this paper, we aim to show that there is thus a diversity in education such as "pedagogical tools" called associated teaching aids in the field of computer-assisted training. They contribute to the efficient development of the didactic activity, being equally material resources of the educational process, selected from reality, modified, or made to reach the pedagogical objectives. The progress of technology has driven the diversification and improvement of these resources, so that, in the Information and Knowledge Society, it can be shown that computer-assisted training has become a variable of the modern educational process, which must take into account, more than ever, the profile of the individual and society.
Improving Research through Avoiding Common Statistical Errors: The Case of Piosphere
Authors: Shahriary Eahsan , Gill Thomas E. , Langford Richard P. , Hussein Musa , Hargrove William L. , Golding Peter
Published: December 2020

For many years scientists studied the piosphere concept- a grazing gradient around a natural/artificial watering point. As is the case for other kinds of ecological studies, the method of statistical analyses applied in many publications is not always appropriate. We note there are many statistical errors and misapplication of data analysis techniques. We reviewed 875 piosphere-related publications between 1915-2018 to find the common statistical methods and common statistical errors in the design of the study, data analyses, presentation of results, and interpretation of study findings. One-way ANOVA, multiple linear regression, Pearson correlation coefficient, permutational multivariate analysis of variance, canonical correspondence analysis, and mean were the most frequent statistical methods applied. Seventy-one common statistical errors in piosphere publications were found. The most common errors were not choosing the proper or appropriate statistical techniques, not checking the assumptions and diagnostics of statistical methods, partial and wrong interpretation of results, and not using informative figures and tables to help readers. Negligence to the proper application of statistics by researchers results in inaccurate interpretation and spurious conclusions. It is recommended researchers seek advice from statisticians at the early stages of research to save resources, time, and labor and to provide increased trust in recommendations and findings.
Antimalarial Activity, Phytochemical Composition and Acute Toxicity Tests of Ethanolic Stem Bark Extract of Alstonia boonei De Wild
Authors: Otuu Chidiebere A. , Obiezue Rose N. N. , Okoye Chris I. , Omalu Innocent C. J. , Otuu Ada Q. A. , Eke Samuel S. , Udeh Emmanuel. O. , Ekuma Innocent C. , Yamman Hadijah U. , Okafor Fabian C.
Published: December 2020

Many modern medicines are derived from the chemicals available in plants. The utilization of plants against diseases by traditional medical practitioners is common in many parts of the world and several researches have been carried out to determine the scientific basis for the use of such plants. Alstonia boonei is one of the many medicinal plants found in Nigeria. The plant parts have been traditionally used to treat various ailments including malaria. This study was carried out to evaluate the antimalarial activity, phytochemical composition and toxicity of ethanolic stem bark extract of Alstonia boonei. The extract showed substantial dose dependent antimalarial activity as indicated by the recorded suppressive (45.67%, 58.53% and 74.68% for 100, 200 and 400 mgkg-1 body weights) prophylactic (33.57%, 45.64% and 61.23% for 100, 200 and 400 mgkg-1 body weights) and curative effects (62.35%, 68.57% and 79.63% for 100, 200 and 400 mgkg-1 body weights) on Plasmodium berghei infected white albino mice. The results of the antimalarial tests were significantly different compared to the negative control at P < 0.05. The phytochemical evaluation showed that the plant contained important chemical compounds including tannins, flavonoids, steroids, phenols, alkaloids, saponins, glycosides and terpenoids. The acute toxicity test showed that the extract is safe as observed on the tested mice. It was concluded that the extract contains important active antimalarial compounds that are safe and should be further investigated for antimalarial drug development.
Elucidating Anti-Acne Properties of a Novel Herbal Moisturizer
Authors: Hafeez Abdul , Ahmad Shmmon , Taie Anmar Al-
Published: December 2020

Acne vulgaris is most common dermatological condition that affects more than 70% of teenagers and more than 10% of adults. The moisture content of human skin makes it appear young and primary function of moisturizer is to avoid the dehydration by preventing the moisture loss. Natural therapies are more suitable and they are more reliable with less or no side effects. The current research focused on the use of herbs for treating acne vulgaris as a moisturizer. This research focused on the use of Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa, and Ocimum sanctum to prepare the formulation, Azadiracta indica, Ocimum sanctum and Curcuma longa possessed the significant capability for inhibiting acne. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against the Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium by disc diffusion method. Prepared formulations were tested for physical parameters such as pH, spreadability, viscosity and color. Formulation studies was found to optimum for all parameters. The study showed the anti-acne moisturizer was significantly effective in controlling the bacteria which cause acne, i.e. Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium. From this research, can be inferred that formulated herbal anti-acne moisturizer was related with a substantial decrease in the growth of microbes that causes acne.
Transformational Leadership in The Hotel Industry: A New Look at The Service-Profit-Chain Concept
Authors: Teguh Evelyn Devina , Devie Devie , Wijaya Serli
Published: December 2020

Employee engagement is essential to the Service-Profit-Chain concept as the factor to produce high quality service that would meet or exceed customer expectations. However, despite its suggested advantages, limited knowledge is known about what causes employee engagement. This study attempts to understand the Service-Profit-Chain concept more comprehensively, by encompassing transformational leadership as the preceding factor to employee engagement. It aimed to examine the role of transformational leadership in shaping employee engagement and service quality which lead to financial performance. The sample groups taken were among the star-rated hotels located in Surabaya, Indonesia. Each hotel was represented by three groups namely: hotel managers, staff, and hotel customers. The Partial Least Square-SEM method was applied to evaluate the hypothesized model. The results revealed that the effect of transformational leadership on financial performance is mediated by employee engagement. However, service quality cannot mediate the effect of transformational leadership on financial performance. It is interesting to note that Service-Profit-Chain has some limitations in practice, depending on the organization’s strategy. This study is among a few attempts to contribute to a better understanding of the Service-Profit-Chain concept application, with transformational leadership as the factor preceding employee engagement specifically in the hotel industry. It founds that the application of Service-Profit-Chain concept in the hotels have some constraints related to the business strategy that hotels select to penetrate the market.
Eupolemos (Eupolemus), historian
Authors: Atkinson Kenneth
Published: December 2020

Eupolemos (“good at war”) is the earliest known Hellenistic–Jewish historian.
Progress and Roadmap for Intelligent Self‐Healing Materials in Autonomous Robotics
Authors: Tan Yu Jun , Susanto Glenys Jocelin , Anwar Ali Hashina Parveen , Tee Benjamin C. K.
Published: December 2020

Robots are increasingly assisting humans in performing various tasks. Like special agents with elite skills, they can venture to distant locations and adverse environments, such as the deep sea and outer space. Micro/nanobots can also act as intrabody agents for healthcare applications. Self‐healing materials that can autonomously perform repair functions are useful to address the unpredictability of the environment and the increasing drive toward the autonomous operation. Having self‐healable robotic materials can potentially reduce costs, electronic wastes, and improve a robot endowed with such materials longevity. This review aims to serve as a roadmap driven by past advances and inspire future cross‐disciplinary research in robotic materials and electronics. By first charting the history of self‐healing materials, new avenues are provided to classify the various self‐healing materials proposed over several decades. The materials and strategies for self‐healing in robotics and stretchable electronics are also reviewed and discussed. It is believed that this article encourages further innovation in this exciting and emerging branch in robotics interfacing with material science and electronics.
Mapping of Texture and Phase Fractions in Heterogeneous Stress States during Multiaxial Loading of Biomedical Superelastic NiTi
Authors: Nicholson Douglas E. , Padula Santo A. , Benafan Othmane , Bunn Jeffrey R. , Payzant E. Andrew , An Ke , Penumadu Dayakar , Vaidyanathan Raj
Published: December 2020

Thermoelastic deformation mechanisms in polycrystalline biomedical‐grade superelastic NiTi are spatially mapped using in situ neutron diffraction during multiaxial loading and heating. The trigonal R‐phase is formed from the cubic phase during cooling to room temperature and subsequently deforms in compression, tension, and torsion. The resulting R‐phase variant microstructure from the variant reorientation and detwinning processes are equivalent for the corresponding strain in tension and compression, and the variant microstructure is reversible by isothermal loading. The R‐phase variant microstructure is consistent between uniaxial and torsional loading when the principal stress directions of the stress state are considered (for the crystallographic directions observed here). The variant microstructure evolution is tracked and the similarity in general behavior between uniaxial and torsional loading, in spite of the implicit heterogeneous stress state associated with torsional loading, pointed to the ability of the reversible thermoelastic transformation in NiTi to accommodate stress and strain mismatch with deformation. This ability of the R‐phase, despite its limited variants, to accommodate stress and strain and satisfy strain incompatibility in addition to the existing internal stresses has significance for reducing irrecoverable deformation mechanisms during loading and cycling through the phase transformation.
Zwitterion‐Initiated Hydroboration of Alkynes and Styrene
Authors: Bismuto Alessandro , Cowley Michael J. , Thomas Stephen P.
Published: December 2020

The hydroboration of alkynes and styrene with HBpin has been developed using tris(pentaflurophenyl)borane (B(C6F5)3) as the initiator of catalysis. The hydroboration is proposed to be initiated by Lewis acid activation of the alkyne by (B(C6F5)3) to form a highly reactive zwitterionic species which subsequently react with HBpin to give the alkenyl boronic ester. This zwitterion has also showed potential to be a competent catalyst for the hydroboration of styrene. The zwitterionic intermediate is analogous to that proposed in the Piers borane‐catalysed hydroboration and 1,1‐carboboration of alkynes with B(C6F5)3.

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Use of high‐fidelity simulation technology in disasters: an integrative literature review
Authors: Gunshin Masataka , Doi Kent , Morimura Naoto
Published: December 2020

New innovative high‐fidelity simulation (HFS) technologies, including augmented reality and virtual reality, have begun being used for disaster response and preparedness. However, few studies have assessed the merit of these technologies in disaster simulation. This integrative literature review of 21 studies assesses the role of HFS technology in disaster. Most studies used a quantitative methodology (71.4%), followed by mixed (19%) or qualitative methods (9.6%). Nearly 60% covered only disaster preparedness phase, whereas 10% addressed disasters in middle‐income countries without including low‐income nations. The four most frequently mentioned technologies were immersive virtual reality simulation, computerized virtual reality simulation, full‐scale simulation, and augmented reality wearable smart glasses simulation. Nearly 50% of the studies used technology for purposes other than disaster simulation education, including telemedicine (14.3%), risk planning (14.3%), high‐risk map generation for preparedness purposes (9.5%), or rehabilitation medicine (4.8%). HFS technologies must be further evaluated outside of high‐income countries and in different disaster phases to better understand their full potential in disaster simulation. Future research should consider different health professions and more robust protocols to assist disaster response professionals and agencies in the adoption of HFS technologies.
The function of the inner witness in interrupting screening mechanisms of perpetrators' language
Authors: Amir Dana , HaCohen Nehama
Published: December 2020

This paper analyzes testimonies taken from Israeli soldiers by the organization “Breaking the Silence,” focusing on the interaction between the screening mechanisms of perpetrator's language, which split between the overt reporting of actions and the deep recognition of their meaning—and what we call “the function of the inner witness,” which operates against these mechanisms. Three types of transformation, allowing a move from turning one's back to looking things in the eye, are described by means of three types of confrontation: the confrontation between one perpetrator and another; the confrontation between perpetrator and witness; and the confrontation between perpetrator and victim.
Spontaneous superficial arteriovenous malformation causing pulsatile tinnitus: A case report
Authors: Walters Holt , Drever Sara K. M. , Abdelgalil Alaa , Robson Andrew K.
Published: December 2020

Superficial arteriovenous fistulae in the absence of other complicating features can be easily treatable with simple surgical excision. In this case, the patient's troublesome symptoms were completely cured with a straightforward procedure.
Neurovascular inflammation in the pathogenesis of brain arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Krithika S. , Sumi S.
Published: December 2020

Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVM) arise as congenital or sporadic focal lesions with a significant risk for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). A wide range of interindividual differences is present in the onset, progression, and severity of bAVM. A growing body of gene expression and polymorphism‐based research studies support the involvement of localized inflammation in bAVM disease progression and rupture. In this review article, we analyze the altered responses of neural, vascular, and immune cell types that contribute to the inflammatory process, which exacerbates the pathophysiological progression of vascular dysmorphogenesis in bAVM lesions. The cumulative effect of inflammation in bAVM development is orchestrated by various genetic moderators and inflammatory mediators. We also discuss the potential therapies for the treatment of brain AVM by targeting the inflammatory processes and mediators. Elucidating the precise role of inflammation in the bAVM growth and hemorrhage would open novel avenues for noninvasive and effectual causal therapy that may complement the current therapeutic strategies.
Perinidal Angiogenesis Is a Predictor for Neurovascular Uncoupling in the Periphery of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: A Task‐Based and Resting‐State fMRI Study
Authors: Li Maogui , Liu Qingyuan , Guo Rui , Yang Shuzhe , Jiang Pengjun , Chen Xin , Wu Jun , Cao Yong , Wang Shuo
Published: December 2020

Background

Potential neurovascular uncoupling (NVU) related to perinidal angiogenesis (PA) of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) may cause inappropriate presurgical mapping using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), resulting in overconfident resection and postoperative morbidity.

Purpose

To evaluate the potential impact of PA upon fMRI blood oxygen level‐dependent signal in the periphery of AVMs.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty‐one patients with AVMs located in the primary sensorimotor cortex (SM1) undergoing task‐based fMRI (hand motor), and 19 patients with supratentorial AVMs undergoing resting‐state fMRI.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T, echo‐planar, time‐of‐flight, and magnetization‐prepared rapid gradient‐echo.

Assessment

The presence of PA was determined by three observers (Y.C., J.W., and X.C.) according to digital subtraction angiography and MR angiography. Interhemispheric asymmetry of fMRI activations contralateral to hand movements was evaluated with the interhemispheric ratio of the average t‐value within ipsilesional SM1 to contralesional SM1. Regional homogeneity (ReHo) and fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations (fALFF) were extracted from ring‐shaped perinidal regions and contralateral homologous regions, and the corresponding interhemispheric ratios were calculated. The effect of PA on the interhemispheric asymmetry of motor activations, ReHo, and fALFF was estimated.

Statistical Tests

Pearson analysis, paired and independent t‐test, multiple linear regression, Friedman test, and factorial analysis of variance were used.

Results

Motor activations were significantly reduced in ipsilesional SM1 compared to contralesional SM1 (P < 0.05). The presence of PA was the independent predictor of activation loss in ipsilateral SM1(P < 0.05). Furthermore, perinidal regions exhibited reduced ReHo compared to the homologous regions (P < 0.05). PA was significantly associated with the decline of ReHo and fALFF in perinidal regions (P < 0.05, for both).

Data Conclusion

The presence of PA can predict perinidal NVU that may confound the interpretation of both task‐based and resting‐state fMRI, highlighting the importance of alternative approaches of brain functional localization in improving treatment of AVMs.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Wine quality and berry size: a case study with Tempranillo Tinto progenies
Authors: Manso‐Martínez Cristina , Sáenz‐Navajas María Pilar , Menéndez Cristina M , Hernández María M
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Small berry size is normally associated with quality wine production. However, the contribution of grapevine variety and environment to sensory quality has not been well established. In this study, genotypes from two intra‐specific hybrid populations were categorized by size according to berry diameter and weight: small (< 13.5 mm, <1.5 g), and large (>16 mm, >2 g). Chemical and sensory attributes of wines produced in two consecutive vintages (2017 and 2018) from each size category were characterized. Perceived intrinsic wine quality was judged by 20 wine professionals.

RESULTS

Wines obtained from small berry genotypes consistently displayed higher proportions of phenolic compounds and deeper color and were judged higher in quality regardless of genetic background and vintage. Perceived quality was positively correlated with anthocyanin and phenolic content. Wines presented high sensory variability in both vintages. Small berry size genotypes produced sweeter, fruitier wines with greater astringency; whereas wines from larger berries were perceived as more alcoholic and with lower positive aroma intensities. Berry size influenced color and phenolic compounds more than genotype or environment.

CONCLUSION

Small berry‐size genotypes were related to high quality judgements in both years, thus providing a predictor of wine categories, which could be used to meet different market demands. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Methadone‐associated QT interval prolongation in patients undergoing maintenance therapy in an urban opioid treatment program
Authors: Titus‐Lay Erika N. , Jaynes Heather A. , Tomaselli Muensterman Elena , Walroth Todd A. , Ott Carol A. , Desta Zeruesenay , Williams Gabriela , Moe Paul R. , Wilbrandt Michelle , Tisdale James E.
Published: December 2020

Study Objective

Methadone is associated with QT interval prolongation and torsades de pointes. The objective of this study was to (a) determine the incidence of QT interval prolongation among patients on maintenance methadone therapy in an urban opioid treatment program (OTP), (b) compare characteristics of patients who developed methadone‐associated QT prolongation with those who did not develop QT prolongation, and (c) investigate the relationship between QT interval prolongation and stereospecific serum methadone and metabolite [2‐ethylidene‐1,5‐dimethyl‐3,3‐diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP)] concentrations.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Urban opioid treatment program (OTP).

Patients

n = 93 patients on maintenance methadone therapy in an urban OTP.

Intervention

Patients underwent a 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) prior to initiating methadone and again during steady‐state maintenance methadone therapy. In a subset (n = 43), blood was obtained to determine serum (S)‐ and (R)‐methadone and (S)‐ and (R)‐EDDP concentrations, which were compared in patients who developed Bazett’s‐corrected QT (QTc) prolongation [≥470 ms (men) or ≥480 ms (women) and/or ≥60 ms lengthening from pretreatment value] with those who did not have QTc prolongation.

Measurements and Main Results

Mean [± standard deviation (SD)] age was 36 ± 12 years; 73% were female, and 74% were white. QTc prolongation occurred in 14 (15.1%) patients. Patients who developed QTc prolongation were older (41 ± 13 vs. 35 ± 9 years, p = 0.03) and had a longer pre‐methadone QTc compared with those who did not have QTc prolongation (429 ± 11 vs. 420 ± 20 ms, respectively, p = 0.02). Serum (S)‐methadone concentrations were higher in patients with QTc prolongation compared to patients without prolongation (199 ± 81 vs. 128 ± 68 ng/ml, respectively, p = 0.01), whereas the difference in serum (R)‐methadone concentrations between the groups did not reach significance (189 ± 68 vs. 125 ± 60 ng/ml, respectively, p = 0.08). Serum (R)‐methadone concentrations correlated with QTc intervals [R2 = 0.15 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11–0.62, p = 0.0009)]. The correlation between serum (S)‐methadone concentrations and QTc did not reach significance [R2 = 0.08 (95% CI −0.01 to 0.54, p = 0.06)]. Serum (S)‐and (R)‐EDDP concentrations were not significantly different between the groups and did not significantly correlate with QTc intervals.

Conclusions

Approximately 15% of patients taking maintenance methadone therapy developed QT interval prolongation. Both serum (S)‐ and (R)‐methadone concentrations, but not (S)‐ or (R)‐EDDP, contribute to methadone‐associated QT prolongation.
Cytokinin isopentenyladenine and its glucoside isopentenyladenine‐9G delay leaf senescence through activation of cytokinin‐associated genes
Authors: Hallmark H. Tucker , Rashotte Aaron M.
Published: December 2020

Cytokinins (CKs) are well‐known as a class of phytohormones capable of delaying senescence in detached leaves. However, CKs are often treated as a monolithic group of compounds even though dozens of CK species are present in plants with varied degrees of reported biological activity. One specific type of CK, isopentenyladenine base (iP), has been demonstrated as having roles in delaying leaf senescence, inhibition of root growth, and promoting shoot regeneration. However, its N‐glucosides isopentenyladenine‐7‐ and ‐9‐glucoside (iP7G, iP9G) have remained understudied and thought of as inactive cytokinins for several decades, despite their relatively high concentrations in plants such as the model speciesArabidopsis thaliana. Here we show that iP and one of its glucosides, iP9G, are capable of delaying senescence in leaves, though the glucosides having little to no activity in other bioassays. Additionally, we performed the first transcriptomic study of iP‐delayed cotyledon senescence which shows that iP is capable of upregulating photosynthetic genes and downregulating catabolic genes in detached cotyledons. Transcriptomic analysis also shows iP9G has limited effects on gene expression, but that the few affected genes are CK‐related and are similar to those seen from iP effects during senescence as seen for the type‐A response regulator ARR6. These findings suggest that iP9G functions as an active CK during senescence.
A critical look at the electroweak phase transition
Authors: Ekstedt Andreas , Löfgren Johan
Published: December 2020

Abstract

The electroweak phase transition broke the electroweak symmetry. Perturbative methods used to calculate observables related to this phase transition suffer from severe problems such as gauge dependence, infrared divergences, and a breakdown of perturbation theory. In this paper we develop robust perturbative tools for dealing with phase transitions. We argue that gauge and infrared problems are absent in a consistent power-counting. We calculate the finite temperature effective potential to two loops for general gauge-fixing parameters in a generic model. We demonstrate gauge invariance, and perform numerical calculations for the Standard Model in Fermi gauge.
Potential roles of mitochondrial cofactors in the adjuvant mitigation of proinflammatory acute infections, as in the case of sepsis and COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Pagano Giovanni , Manfredi Carla , Pallardó Federico V. , Lyakhovich Alex , Tiano Luca , Trifuoggi Marco
Published: December 2020

Background

The mitochondrial cofactorsα-lipoic acid (ALA), coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and carnitine (CARN) play distinct and complementary roles in mitochondrial functioning, along with strong antioxidant actions. Also termed mitochondrial nutrients (MNs), these cofactors have demonstrated specific protective actions in a number of chronic disorders, as assessed in a well-established body of literature.

Methods

Using PubMed, the authors searched for articles containing information on the utilization of MNs in inflammatory disorders as assessed from in vitro and animal studies, and in clinical trials, in terms of exerting anti-inflammatory actions.

Results

The retrieved literature provided evidence relating acute pathologic conditions, such as sepsis and pneumonia, with a number of redox endpoints of biological and clinical relevance. Among these findings, both ALA and CARN were effective in counteracting inflammation-associated redox biomarkers, while CoQ10 showed decreased levels in proinflammatory conditions. MN-associated antioxidant actions were applied in a number of acute disorders, mostly using one MN. The body of literature assessing the safety and the complementary roles of MNs taken together suggests an adjuvant role of MN combinations in counteracting oxidative stress in sepsis and other acute disorders, including COVID-19-associated pneumonia.

Conclusions

The present state of art in the use of individual MNs in acute disorders suggests planning adjuvant therapy trials utilizing MN combinations aimed at counteracting proinflammatory conditions, as in the case of pneumonia and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evidence for the use of spinal collars in stabilising spinal injuries in the pre-hospital setting in trauma patients: a systematic review
Authors: Hawkridge Katherine , Ahmed Ikhlaaq , Ahmed Zubair
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Spinal collars were introduced in 1967 into the management of spinal trauma care as it was thought that this technique of immobilisation would prevent any further neurological or spinal damage in high-risk patients. The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether the use of spinal collars in the pre-hospital trauma patient was recommended by published literature.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted between 1990 and 2020, screening PubMed, Medline, Science Direct and Google Scholar. The consequent findings were then qualitatively synthesised with the aim of effectively evaluating the evidence to resolve the discrepancy between current practice and literature.

Results

Of the nine eligible studies, six deemed that spinal collars should not be used in pre-hospital trauma patients with the remaining three reporting uncertainty if spinal collars were best practice. Our results suggest that there is a discrepancy between current guidance and practice in that although the guidelines recommend the use of spinal collars in the pre-hospital setting the majority of the studies were against the use of spinal collars. Importantly, none of the studies reported any benefits of spinal collars.

Conclusion

Our study shows a disparity between current guidelines and the published literature and warrants further direct research to obtain a more comprehensive view of the use of spinal collars in a pre-hospital setting.