bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Presence of Bacteriochlorophyll and Xanthorhodopsin Genes in a Freshwater Bacterium
Authors: Kopejtka Karel , Tomasch Jürgen , Zeng Yonghui , Selyanin Vadim , Dachev Marko , Piwosz Kasia , Tichý Martin , Bína David , Gardian Zdenko , Bunk Boyke , Brinkmann Henner , Geffers Robert , Sommaruga Ruben , Koblížek Michal
Published: December 2020

Phototrophic organisms are key components of many natural environments. There exist two main phototrophic groups: species that collect light energy using various kinds of (bacterio)chlorophylls and species that utilize rhodopsins.
Generalized effective stress concept for saturated active clays
Authors: Tuttolomondo Angelica , Ferrari Alessio , Laloui Lyesse
Published: December 2020

Experimental evidence shows that changes in pore-water chemistry can significantly affect the mechanical behavior of saturated active clays. Despite this evidence, how the chemical composition of the pore water can be considered in effective stress definition is questionable. This paper develops the concept of generalized effective stress for active clays. To this end, physicochemical studies on water–clay mineral interactions are used to clearly define the different types of ions and water present in an active clay. In particular, the presence of both movable and non-movable ions within the liquid water is highlighted. Taking this into account, thermodynamic and geochemistry principles are applied to the representative elementary volume scale for determining the pore-water pressure and redefine the effective stress accordingly. The theoretical development results in the dependence of the effective stress on the pore-water chemistry through the effective solute suction variable. Equations for the determination of this chemical variable are developed. The implications of the use of the proposed effective stress concept are investigated using experimental results taken from the literature. The results show advantages both in the interpretation of shear strength and volumetric data, and all support the theoretical explanation underlying the proposed concept.
l-Valued Multiset Automata and l-Valued Multiset Languages
Authors: Gautam Vinay
Published: December 2020

The reason for this work is to present and study deterministic multiset automata, multiset automata and their languages with membership values in complete residuated lattice without zero divisors. We build up the comparability of deterministic [Formula: see text]-valued multiset finite automaton and [Formula: see text]-valued multiset finite automaton in sense of recognizability of a [Formula: see text]-valued multiset language. Then, we relate multiset regular languages to a given [Formula: see text]-valued multiset regular languages and vice versa. At last, we present the concept of pumping lemma for [Formula: see text]-valued multiset automata theory, which we utilize to give a necessary and sufficient condition for a [Formula: see text]-valued multiset language to be non-constant.
From the Editor: Green is Good
Authors: Rajeshwar Krishnan
Published: December 2020

As I settle down to write this editorial column in early February, the big news out of Europe is the release of the fourth assessment report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which unequivocally attributes with near certainty (more than 90% confidence level), the global warming trend to human activity.
From the Editor: The Power of Many
Authors: Rajeshwar Krishnan
Published: December 2020

As one wag remarked, “If you want to kill the snake, don’t form a committee; just go do it…” Yet we are ever reliant on committee decisions in our daily business life (and this includes ECS business also). How effective and optimal are group decisions relative to those made by individuals?
From the President: Strength in Diversity
Authors: MacDougall Barry
Published: December 2020

As I begin my term as President of ECS, I am very pleased with several events over the past year that illustrate the continued strength, and growth, of ECS.
The Chalkboard: An Electroanalytical Approach for Investigating the Reaction Pathway of Molecules at Surfaces
Authors: Brisard Gessie
Published: December 2020

The study of electrochemical reactions involves knowledge of various domains in chemistry and physics: thermodynamics, kinetics, electricity, transport phenomena, hydrodynamics, and so on. Therefore the fields of application of electrochemical processes are equally vast: production of electric energy from chemical reactions, production of chemical reaction from electric energy, determination of kinetics and reactions mechanisms, conception of electrical and electrochemical devices, etc.
Liquid Salts: A Brief Introduction
Authors: Johnson Keith E. , Hussey Charles L.
Published: December 2020

Highlights of molten salt electrochemistry in the 19th century were the preparation of potassium, the basic work of Faraday, and the development of the aluminum industry. Between the two World Wars, considerable fundamental work took place in Germany; and in the second half of the 20th century, molten salt chemistry research flourished in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union in particular.
Electrochemical Applications of Room-Temperature Ionic Liquids
Authors: Tsuda Tetsuya , Hussey Charles L.
Published: December 2020

There is good evidence that the first room-temperature ionic liquid or RTIL was identified and characterized by Walden in 1914, who examined the electrical conductivity of ethylammonium nitrate. Thus, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the very beginnings of electrochemistry involved room-temperature ionic liquids!
Solid-State Ionic Devices
Authors: Wachsman Eric D. , Traversa Enrico
Published: December 2020

Solid-state ionic devices can be used to harness chemical energy to produce electricity in a fuel cell (SOFCs), convert one chemical species to another (both with and without application of an electric potential), separate one chemical species from another, or detect chemical species by producing an electric signal.
Real-Time State-of-Charge Simulation and Dynamic Optimization of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Boovaragavan Vijayasekaran
Published: December 2020

2007 ECS O. De Nora Fellowship Report
Evaluation of Liver Microsomes for Genotoxicity Sensors—Voltammetry of the Microsomes
Authors: Krishnan Sadagopan , Rusling James F.
Published: December 2020

The 2007 Joseph W. Richards Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Urinary DPP4 correlates with renal dysfunction, and DPP4 inhibition protects against the reduction in megalin and podocin expression in experimental CKD
Authors: Benetti Acaris , Martins Flavia Letícia , Sene Letícia Barros , Shimizu Maria Heloisa M. , Seguro Antonio C. , Luchi Weverton M. , Girardi Adriana C. C.
Published: December 2020

This study investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the antiproteinuric effect of DPP4 inhibition in 5/6 renal ablation rats and tested the hypothesis that the urinary activity of DPP4 correlates with chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. Experiments were conducted in male Wistar rats who underwent 5/6 nephrectomy (Nx) or sham operation followed by 8 wk of treatment with the DPP4 inhibitor (DPP4i) sitagliptin or vehicle. Proteinuria increased progressively in Nx rats throughout the observation period. This increase was remarkably mitigated by sitagliptin. Higher levels of proteinuria in Nx rats compared to control rats were accompanied by higher urinary excretion of retinol-binding protein 4, a marker of tubular proteinuria, as well as higher urinary levels of podocin, a marker of glomerular proteinuria. Retinol-binding protein 4 and podocin were not detected in the urine of Nx + DPP4i rats. Tubular and glomerular proteinuria was associated with the reduced expression of megalin and podocin in the renal cortex of Nx rats. Sitagliptin treatment partially prevented this decrease. Besides, the angiotensin II renal content was significantly reduced in the Nx rats that received sitagliptin compared to vehicle-treated Nx rats. Interestingly, both urinary DPP4 activity and abundance increased progressively in Nx rats. Additionally, urinary DPP4 activity correlated positively with serum creatinine levels, proteinuria, and blood pressure. Collectively, these results suggest that DPP4 inhibition ameliorated both tubular and glomerular proteinuria and prevented the reduction of megalin and podocin expression in CKD rats. Furthermore, these findings suggest that urinary DPP4 activity may serve as a biomarker of renal disease and progression.
Association study of performance-related polymorphisms in Brazilian combat-sport athletes highlights variants in the GABPB1 gene
Authors: Guilherme João Paulo L. F. , Souza-Junior Tácito P. , Lancha Junior Antonio H.
Published: December 2020

Combat sports are an intermittent sport, with mixed anaerobic and aerobic energy production. Here, we investigated whether the polymorphisms that have been previously suggested as genetic markers for endurance or power phenotypes were associated with combat-sport athletic status. A total of 23 previously reported performance-related polymorphisms were examined in a cohort of 1,129 Brazilian individuals (164 combat-sport athletes and 965 controls), using a case-control association study. We found that the GA-binding protein transcription factor subunit beta 1 ( GABPβ1) gene (also known as nuclear respiratory factor 2; NRF2) was associated with athletic status, with the minor G (rs7181866) and T (rs8031031) alleles overrepresented in athletes ( P ≤ 0.003), especially among world-class athletes ( P ≤ 0.0002). These findings indicate that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the GABPβ1 gene increase the likelihood of an individual being a combat-sport athlete, possibly because of a better mitochondrial response to intermittent exercises.
Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Injection on Cancer‐Related Fatigue: A Meta‐Analysis Based on Existing Evidence
Authors: Huang Zhengkai , Zhang Qiang , Fan Yihua , Zhou Jiajing , Liang Mingkun , Deng Xin , Liang Jian
Published: December 2020

Background and Objective. Cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) is a common and painful side effect for cancer patients. The treatment of CRF by traditional Chinese medicine injection (TCMJ) is controversial. We conducted a meta‐analysis and systematic review to evaluate the effect of TCMJ on CRF, with a view to providing some guidance for clinical application. Methods. We systematically searched randomized controlled studies reported through March 2020 in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and VIP databases. Two investigators independently screened the studies according to the predetermined criteria, extracted data, and evaluated the bias risk of the included studies, using RevMan5.3 software. Results. Twelve studies enrolling 1005 participants were included in this systematic review. We found that TCMJ could improve the clinical efficacy of CRF patients (RR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.05–1.46, P = 0.01), ameliorate fatigue status (RR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.27–1.65, P < 0.00001), and improve quality of life (MD = 8.34, 95% CI: 3.31–13.37, P = 0.001), but there was no statistical significance in the fatigue score (MD = −1.10, 95% CI: −2.23–0.04, P = 0.06). Referring to the number of adverse events, the safety of TCMJ was good. Subgroup analysis showed that TCMJ could improve clinical efficacy, fatigue, and quality of life in a short time (≤4 weeks). Among them, tonic TCMJ could improve the clinical efficacy. TCMJ had advantages in improving fatigue of lung cancer and gastric cancer. In addition, life quality of lung cancer patients improved significantly. Conclusion. Current research evidence showed that TCMJ could improve the clinical efficacy, fatigue status, and life quality of patients with CRF. In addition, we found that TCMJ could improve the clinical efficacy of CRF patients in a short period of time. Tonic TCMJ could improve the clinical efficacy, but heat‐clearing TCMJ could not. Life quality and fatigue status of lung cancer patients improved significantly. However, due to the sample size and quality of the included studies, the results of this analysis should be treated with caution. The above conclusions still need to be verified by more large‐sample and high‐quality randomized controlled trials.
Optimization Scheme of Tradable Credits and Bus Departure Quantity for Travelers’ Travel Mode Choice Guidance
Authors: Zhou Fang , Wu Jianhui , Xu Yan , Yi Chi
Published: December 2020

To analyze the influence of tradable credits and bus departure quantity on travelers' travel mode choice, this study investigated car travel and bus travel as research objects and established a two-mode day-to-day travel mode choice model based on tradable credits and bus departure quantity. To improve the guiding effect of tradable credits and bus departure quantity, an optimization scheme of tradable credits and bus departure quantity was developed with the goal of minimizing the system total travel time of car travel and the system total comprehensive cost of bus travel. Taking a test transportation network as an example, the influence of no tradable credits scheme, tradable credits scheme, and tradable credits and bus departure quantity scheme on the travelers’ travel mode choice behavior was analyzed. The results showed that the tradable credits and bus departure quantity scheme could reduce the saturation of road traffic and improve bus service quality.
Enterprise Network Marketing Prediction Using the Optimized GA-BP Neural Network
Authors: Yang Ruyi
Published: December 2020

As a brand-new marketing method, network marketing has gradually become one of the main ways and means for enterprises to improve profitability and competitiveness with its unique advantages. Using these marketing data to build a model can dig out useful information that the business is concerned about, and the company can then formulate marketing strategies based on this information. Sales forecasting is to speculate on the future based on historical sales. It is a tool for companies to determine production volume and ensure the balance of product supply and sales. It can help companies make correct business decisions to maximize profits. The neural network can approximate the nonlinear function with arbitrary precision, and the time series prediction model based on the neural network can well reflect the nonlinear development trend of information. Based on the analysis of the shortcomings of the traditional BP network, this paper uses a genetic algorithm with good global search capabilities to improve the neural network. The thought and theory of optimizing the initial weight and threshold of the neural network of the GA algorithm are discussed in detail. While expounding the forecasting method, it uses specific examples to analyze the performance and characteristics of the GA-BP network in the enterprise network marketing forecasting. The results show that the GA-BP neural network is higher than the traditional BP neural network in terms of prediction accuracy and adaptability.
Segmented Power Supply Preset Control Method of High-Speed Rail Contactless Traction Power Supply System considering Regenerative Braking Energy Recovery
Authors: Li Ruoqiong , Wang Junjie , Zhao Xuan , Li Xin
Published: December 2020

For high-speed rail with high energy consumption, the recovery and utilization of regenerative braking energy is essential to improve the energy consumption of high-speed rail. As a technical link, the energy bidirectional feed inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) system can realize the regenerative braking energy recovery of the contactless traction power supply system. Furthermore, considering that the braking energy of the high-speed rail is the largest when entering the station during the whole line operation, the braking section of the station is mainly considered. This paper proposes a preset control method for segmented power supply of the energy bidirectional feed ICPT system considering regenerative braking energy recovery. By establishing the steady-state mathematical model of the bidirectional ICPT system, the influence of the internal phase-shift angles φ1 and φ2 and the external phase-shift angle γ on the operating state of the system is analyzed. To realize system synchronization under the operation of EMUs, a train braking model is established through force analysis, and a power preset controller is designed to realize the synchronous control of the power flow of the bilateral system. According to the braking process of the train entering the station, the switching control method of the segment coil under the different conditions of the single train entering the station and the multitrain entering the station is proposed to ensure the reliability and flexibility of the train power supply. The simulation results of the 350 kW ICPT system simulation model show that the system can operate stably when the power transmission simulation is switched, and the transmission efficiency can reach 89%, which proves the feasibility of the control method. Energy-saving estimates show that a single train can recover about 200–300 kWh of electric energy during single braking. The comparison with the measured data verifies the accuracy of the modeling in this paper.
Fluvastatin‐Pretreated Donor Cells Attenuated Murine aGVHD by Balancing Effector T Cell Distribution and Function under the Regulation of KLF2
Authors: Zhao Kai , Tian Yu , Wang Junjie , Chen Chong , Pan Bin , Yan Zhiling , Zhu Shengyun , Xu Kailin
Published: December 2020

Prevention of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is still to be explored. Statins are potent immunomodulatory agents that hold promise as novel and safe agents for aGVHD prophylaxis, yet the controversial effect and regulatory mechanism are incompletely understood. Here, in an MHC mismatched murine model, we found that Fluvastatin‐pretreated donor cells could attenuate aGVHD severity by remission tissue pathological injury. Fluvastatin served to restrain effector T cells entry into aGVHD target organs from secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs). The potential mechanism of correcting the effector T cell biased distribution was that Fluvastatin elevated CD62L and CCR7 expression while decreased CXCR3 and CD44 levels, which were correlated with Kruppel‐like factor 2 (KLF2) sustention in donor‐derived cells. In addition, Fluvastatin was contributed to reducing cytokines IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, and granzyme‐B production in allogeneic effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, evidence confirmed that Fluvastatin had a long‐lasting effect to sustain KLF2 expression both in vitro and in vivo even under the stimulated circumstance. In conclusion, administration of Fluvastatin to donor mice showed protective effects against recipient aGVHD when compared to untreated mice due to the retention of effector T cells in lymphoid organs accompanying with reduction of nonlymphatic infiltration and related inflammatory cytokines.
Study on the Modification Formula of Earth Material Compound with Cement and Gravel by Single Lattice Theory
Authors: Zhang Kun , Lu Bai-Ru , Wang Yi-Hong , Qu Zhan , Qu Le
Published: December 2020

Gravel and cement can effectively improve the low strength of traditional Earth materials. There have been few studies on test methods for raw soil‐based composite admixtures. By introducing the theory of single lattice formula testing, the compressive strength of 10 formulas and 60 modified raw soil cubic specimens were tested. The failure process, failure mode, and compressive strength of specimens were studied. The effects of different formulations of raw soil on strength, peak displacement, and dispersion were analyzed. The results showed that cement content had a significant effect on the compressive strength and dispersion of earth material specimens. The optimal modification formula of cement, gravel, and raw soil was determined to be 0.1/0.08/0.82 (mass ratio). At the same time, the applicability of the test method was verified, which can be used as a reference for the experimental study on modification formulations of earth materials.
The First Investigation of Tick Vectors and Tick-Borne Diseases in Extensively Managed Cattle in Alle District, Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Solomon Asrat , Tanga Bereket Molla
Published: December 2020

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2019 to February 2020 with the objective of identifying ixodid ticks and haemoparasites, in extensively managed livestock, in Alle district, Southwestern Ethiopia. The study area is assumed to be free from ticks, and there had been no diagnostic and treatment options for tick-borne diseases. Among 384 heads of cattle examined for tick infestation and haemoparasites, 139 (36.19%) were infested with one or more tick species and 25 (6.51%) were haemoparasitised. Two genera of ticks, Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus formerly (Boophilus), and four species (Amblyomma variegatum, Amblyomma lepidum, Rhipicephalus microplus, and Rhipicephalus annulatus) were identified. The haemoparasite identified was Babesia bovis. Among the risk factors, body condition score and season of the year were found to be significantly associated with tick infestation with x2 = 9.919,

p
>
0.05

and x2 = 6.216,

p
>
0.05

, respectively, at 95% CI. Tick infestation was found to be significantly associated with haemoparasitemia with x2 = 22.2 and

p
>
0.05

, at 95% CI. The finding of the current study is an alarm ring, as the veterinary service had been not considering any haemoparasitemia in the potential list of differential diagnosis and no treatment inputs have been availed for that purpose. Thus, it is recommended that the veterinary service delivery system in the area should take haemoparasites diagnosis and avail treatment alternatives, particularly tick-borne diseases. Furthermore, there should be a strategical approach in controlling tick-borne diseases in the area before the tick-borne diseases get prevalent and where the control after high prevalence could not be easy in extensive livestock management.
Plackett–Burman Combined with Box–Behnken to Optimize the Medium of Fermented Tremella Polysaccharide and Compare the Characteristics before and after Optimization
Authors: Ma Xia , Yang Meng , He Yan , Li Chenglinang , Zhai Chuntao
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to improve the yield of fermented Tremella polysaccharide (FTP) by optimizing the medium and to explore the effect of optimization on the structure. In this paper, the Plackett–Burman design and response surface method were used to optimize the fermentation medium of Tremella spore GT2# for FTP production. The results of the Plackett–Burman design showed that potato extract, glucose, and peptone were the main factors. The Box–Behnken experiment and regression analysis determined that the optimal concentrations of potato extract, glucose, and peptone were 22.01%, 29.38 g/L, and 2.61 g/L, respectively. After optimization, the fermentation period shortened from 5 days to 3 days, and the yield of FTP increased from 10.75 g/L to 12.50 g/L, which was in good agreement with the predicted value (12.36 g/L). Characterization of FTP obtained before and after optimization was carried out, and the results showed that medium optimization had significant effects on the primary structure of FTP, including molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and proportion. After optimization, the content of acid polysaccharide increased, and the glycoside bonds changed from a-configuration to ß-configuration.
Effects of Body Weight Support‐Tai Chi Footwork Training on Balance Control and Walking Function in Stroke Survivors with Hemiplegia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yu Xiao-Ming , Jin Xue-Ming , Lu Yan , Gao Yang , Xu Hai-Chen , Xue Xin , Fang Lei , Hu Jun
Published: December 2020

Background. Tai Chi (TC) is known to enhance balance control and walking function in stroke survivors. However, motor disorders in stroke patients may limit the implementation of TC exercise and increase the risk of falling. The body weight support (BWS) device can provide protection during the early rehabilitation of stroke survivors using an overhead suspension system. Theoretically, combining TC with BWS may be an effective intervention for stroke survivors. This study aimed to examine the effects of body weight support‐Tai Chi training on balance control and walking function in stroke survivors with hemiplegia. Methods. Seventy‐one stroke survivors with hemiplegia aged 30–75 years were randomly allocated to the control group (N = 35) or the BWS‐TC group (N = 36). During BWS‐TC training, the subjects performed 7 Tai Chi footwork forms, and gradual easy‐to‐difficult progression (from 40% to 0% body weight) was followed. The subjects participated in 40 min rehabilitation sessions three times per week for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was dynamic balance in the limits‐of‐stability test. The secondary outcomes, which reflect improvements walking function, included spatiotemporal parameters, the joint range of motion in the affected limb during the swing phase, the Berg Balance Scale score, and the Fugl‐Meyer Assessment score. Evaluations were performed at baseline and 12 weeks and compared between groups. Results. After training, significant between‐group differences were observed in the scores for overall, forward, left, right, forward‐left, and forward‐right directional control in the limits‐of‐stability test (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the scores for gait cycle time, step length, step velocity, and range of motion of the joints were better in the BWS‐TC group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusions. The 12‐week BWS‐TC training may enhance dynamic balance and walking function in stroke survivors with hemiplegia.
Colchicine Inhibits Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Vaidya Kaivan , Tucker Bradley , Kurup Rahul , Khandkar Chinmay , Pandzic Elvis , Barraclough Jennifer , Machet Joshua , Misra Ashish , Kavurma Mary , Martinez Gonzalo , Rye Kerry‐Anne , Cochran Blake J. , Patel Sanjay
Published: December 2020

Background

Release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is associated with periprocedural myocardial infarction, as a result of microvascular obstruction via pro‐inflammatory and prothrombotic pathways. Colchicine is a well‐established anti‐inflammatory agent with growing evidence to support use in patients with coronary disease. However, its effects on post‐PCI NET formation in ACS have not been explored.

Methods and Results

Sixty patients (40 ACS; 20 stable angina pectoris) were prospectively recruited and allocated to colchicine or no treatment. Within 24 hours of treatment, serial coronary sinus blood samples were collected during PCI. Isolated neutrophils from 10 patients with ACS post‐PCI and 4 healthy controls were treated in vitro with colchicine (25 nmol/L) and stimulated with either ionomycin (5 μmol/L) or phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (50 nmol/L). Extracellular DNA was quantified using Sytox Green and fixed cells were stained with Hoechst 3342 and anti‐alpha tubulin. Baseline characteristics were similar across both treatment and control arms. Patients with ACS had higher NET release versus patients with stable angina pectoris (
P
<0.001), which was reduced with colchicine treatment (area under the curve: 0.58 versus 4.29;
P
<0.001). In vitro, colchicine suppressed unstimulated (
P
<0.001), phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate–induced (
P
=0.009) and ionomycin‐induced (
P
=0.002) NET formation in neutrophils isolated from patients with ACS post‐PCI, but not healthy controls. Tubulin organization was impaired in neutrophils from patients with ACS but was restored by colchicine treatment.

Conclusions

Colchicine suppresses NET formation in patients with ACS post‐PCI by restoring cytoskeletal dynamics. These findings warrant further investigation in randomized trials powered for clinical end points.

Registration

URL:
https://anzctr.org.au
; Unique identifier: ACTRN12619001231134.
Fleas are parasitic scorpionflies

Authors: TIHELKA ERIK , GIACOMELLI MATTIA , HUANG DI-YING , PISANI DAVIDE , DONOGHUE PHILIP C. J. , CAI CHEN-YANG
Published: December 2020

Fleas (Siphonaptera) are medically important blood-feeding insects responsible for spreading pathogens such as plague, murine typhus, and myxomatosis. The peculiar morphology of fleas resulting from their specialised ectoparasitic lifestyle has meant that the phylogenetic position of this diverse and medically important group has remained one of the most persistent problems in insect evolution. Here we test competing hypotheses on the contentious evolutionary relationships of fleas and antliophoran insects using the largest molecular dataset available to date consisting of over 1,400 protein-coding genes, and a smaller mitogenome and Sanger sequence alignment of 16 genes. By removing ambiguously aligned sequence regions and using site-heterogeneous models, we consistently recover fleas nested within scorpionflies (Mecoptera) as sister to the relictual southern hemisphere family Nannochoristidae. Topology tests accounting for compositional heterogeneity strongly favour the proposed topology over previous hypotheses of antliophoran relationships. This clade is diagnosed by shared morphological characters of the head and sperm pump. Fleas may no longer be regarded as a separate insect order and we propose that Siphonaptera should be treated as an infraorder within Mecoptera, reducing the number of extant holometabolan insect orders to ten.
Economic Loss Assessment of Tropical Cyclones Based on Bibliometric Data Analysis
Authors: Tan Ling , Yao Weizhi , Chen Fei , Li Lianshui
Published: December 2020

Tropical cyclone (hereafter as TC) is one of the serious environmental disasters. In order to promote theoretical research into prevention and control of TCs, the current developments and trends in research on economic loss assessment of TCs around the world need to be understood. In this paper, bibliometric visualization analysis is used to analyze research progress based on literature collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The evolution trend of years and countries, cooperation networks, major scholars, knowledge bases, key topics, hotspots and challenges were presented quantitatively through keyword co-occurrence analysis, burst strength analysis, cluster analysis and keyword strategy matrix. The results indicate that the USA currently has the most influential studies. The top four topics in this research field are the influence of TCs on forest ecosystem, human health, social and economic system, along with the research on the influence of TCs under climate change. In addition, more studies considering the vulnerability, variability and risk assessment of TCs need to be further investigated in the future. Through quantitative literature analysis and review, this paper can help interested scholars develop a deeper understanding of the current situation and future trends in research on economic loss assessment of TCs.
Gardos channelopathy: functional analysis of a novel KCNN4 variant
Authors: Fermo Elisa , Monedero-Alonso David , Petkova-Kirova Polina , Makhro Asya , Pérès Laurent , Bouyer Guillaume , Marcello Anna Paola , Longo Filomena , Graziadei Giovanna , Barcellini Wilma , Bogdanova Anna , Egee Stephane , Kaestner Lars , Bianchi Paola
Published: December 2020

Key Points

We show that the novel KCNN4 variant p.S314P is a gain-of-function mutation but is less severe than the previously reported p.R352H variant. The clinical heterogeneity, blurred symptoms, and absence of specific diagnostic markers make the diagnosis of Gardos channelopathy challenging.
Evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of a new point-of-care rapid test for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection
Authors: Miscio Leonardo , Olivieri Antonio , Labonia Francesco , De Feo Gianfranco , Chiodini Paolo , Portella Giuseppe , Atripaldi Luigi , Parrella Roberto , Conenna Rodolfo , Buonaguro Franco Maria , Cavalcanti Ernesta , Ascierto Paolo , Botti Gerardo , Bianchi Attilio
Published: December 2020

Background

The easy access to a quick diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a key point to improve the management of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and to contain its spread. Up to now, laboratory real-time PCR is the standard of care, but requires a fully equipped laboratory and significant infrastructure. Consequently, new diagnostic tools are required.

Methods

In the present work, the diagnostic accuracy of the point-of-care rapid test "bKIT Virus Finder COVID-19" (Hyris Ltd) is evaluated by a retrospective and a prospective analysis on SARS CoV-2 samples previously assessed with an FDA “authorized for the emergency use—EUA” reference method. Descriptive statistics were used for the present study.

Results

Results obtained with the Hyris Kit are the same as that of standard laboratory-based real time PCR methods for all the analyzed samples. In addition, the Hyris Kit provides the test results in less than 2 h, a significantly shorter time compared to the reference methods, without the need of a fully equipped laboratory.

Conclusions

To conclude, the Hyris kit represents a promising tool to improve the health surveillance and to increase the capacity of SARS-CoV-2 testing.
T cell phenotypes associated with insulin resistance: results from the Berlin Aging Study II
Authors: Sbierski-Kind Julia , Goldeck David , Buchmann Nikolaus , Spranger Joachim , Volk Hans-Dieter , Steinhagen-Thiessen Elisabeth , Pawelec Graham , Demuth Ilja , Spira Dominik
Published: December 2020

Background

Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation leading to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, but a subset of obese individuals is considered insulin sensitive (IS). The underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms remain elusive and clinical studies on the relationship between inflammatory markers and metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) are scarce.

Methods

In this cross-sectional analysis, we included a sample of 437 older participants (60–84 years) from the Berlin Aging Study II (BASE-II). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated, immune cell subsets were analyzed with multiparameter flow cytometry and systemic cytokine levels were measured. Immune cell parameters were correlated with metabolic measures and multiple linear regression analysis was conducted and adjusted for various demographic and clinical factors.

Results

We found that frequencies of naïve and memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells inversely correlated with measures for insulin sensitivity in the older population. Moreover, the percentages of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were significantly higher, whereas activated T cells and IL-6 levels were lower in IS compared to insulin resistant (IR) obese individuals. The percentages of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were predictive for impaired insulin sensitivity (ß = 0.16, p = 0.01 and ß = 0.11, p = 0.04), and the association of naïve CD4+ T cells with insulin sensitivity persisted after multivariate adjustment (ß = 0.14, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis that parameters of systemic inflammation can differentiate IS from IR obese individuals that are at higher risk for cardiometabolic diseases and may have clinical implications with regard to obesity treatment stratification.

Trial registration

DRKS00009277. Registered 31 August 2015 - Retrospectively registered.
Finite cell method for functionally graded materials based on V-models and homogenized microstructures
Authors: Wassermann Benjamin , Korshunova Nina , Kollmannsberger Stefan , Rank Ernst , Elber Gershon
Published: December 2020

This paper proposes an extension of the finite cell method (FCM) to V-rep models, a novel geometric framework for volumetric representations. This combination of an embedded domain approach (FCM) and a new modeling framework (V-rep) forms the basis for an efficient and accurate simulation of mechanical artifacts, which are not only characterized by complex shapes but also by their non-standard interior structure. These types of objects gain more and more interest in the context of the new design opportunities opened by additive manufacturing, in particular when graded or micro-structured material is applied. Two different types of functionally graded materials (FGM) are considered: The first one, multi-material FGM is described using the inherent property of V-rep models to assign different properties throughout the interior of a domain. The second, single-material FGM—which is heterogeneously micro-structured—characterizes the effective material behavior of representative volume elements by homogenization and performs large-scale simulations using the embedded domain approach.
Implementing part-time leadership as instrument for sustainable HR management
Authors: Karlshaus Anja
Published: December 2020

This paper discusses the suitability of part-time leadership as instrument for a sustainable Human Resources Management (HRM) policy. The concept of part-time leadership is introduced and discussed based on a meta-analysis of existing studies and latest research that has been executed on‚ atypical‘working time arrangements in leadership positions. The article discusses the intersection of part-time leadership with the three subject areas (economic, social and ecological) of the Triple-Bottom Line and tries to show more specifically how part-time leadership models can serve the fulfillment of selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in Western countries. Finally, prerequisites and common barriers for a successful implementation of part-time leadership as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) instrument of organizations are unveiled, and suggestions for mitigating those challenges are given from a macro, micro and process perspective.
First record of a reticulated toadfish, Arothron reticularis (Tetraodontiformes: Tetraodontidae), in Korea
Authors: Kang Chung-Bae , Lee Sang-Hwa , Yu Tae-Sik , Lee Hae-Rim , Han Kyeong-Ho
Published: December 2020

A single specimen of Arothron reticularis (398 mm in total length), belonging to the family Tetraodontidae, was collected in the coastal waters off Hansan island using a set net in May 2019. The morphological characteristics of the specimen are as follows: large eyes and mouth, white spots on the body, and a white line surrounding the eyes in an annular shape. A result of maximum likelihood tree showed that A. reticularis is related to A. hispidus (93.6%). We proposed the Korean name “Geu-murl-mu-nui-kkeo-kkeurl-bok,” in accordance with the characteristics of the specimen.
Cost-utility and cost-effectiveness of individual placement support and cognitive remediation in people with severe mental illness: Results from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Christensen Thomas Nordahl , Kruse Marie , Hellström Lone , Eplov Lene Falgaard
Published: December 2020

Background

Administrators and policymakers are increasingly interested in individual placement and support (IPS) as a way of helping people with severe mental illness (SMI) obtain employment or education. It is thus important to investigate the cost-effectiveness to secure that resources are being used properly.

Methods

In a randomized clinical trial, 720 people diagnosed with SMI were allocated into three groups; (a) IPS, (b) IPS supplemented with cognitive remediation a social skills training (IPSE), and (c) Service as usual (SAU). Health care costs, municipal social care costs, and labor market service costs were extracted from nationwide registers and combined with data on use of IPS services. Cost-utility and cost-effectiveness analyses were conducted with two primary outcomes: quality-adjusted life years (QALY) and hours in employment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were computed for both QALY, using participant’s responses to the EQ-5D questionnaire, and for hours in employment.

Results

Both IPS and IPSE were less costly, and more effective than SAU. Overall, there was a statistically significant cost difference of €9,543 when comparing IPS with SAU and €7,288 when comparing IPSE with SAU. ICER’s did generally not render statistically significant results. However, there was a tendency toward the IPS and IPSE interventions being dominant, that is, cheaper with greater effect in health-related quality of life and hours in employment or education compared to usual care.

Conclusion

Individual placement support with and without a supplement of cognitive remediation tends to be cost saving and more effective compared to SAU.
Mental health service users’ responses to anticipated discrimination and the Time to Change program in England
Authors: Sampogna Gaia , Gehlen Lucia , Giallonardo Vincenzo , Robinson Emily J. , Thornicroft Graham , Henderson Claire
Published: December 2020

Background

Responses to anticipateddiscrimination are common among mental health service users and can have adetrimental impact on their recovery. Since 2009, the Time to Change (TTC)anti-stigma program in England has aimed to improve service users’ empowerment,reducing public stigma and discrimination. In this paper, we aim to evaluatewhether service users’ awareness of TTC is associated with fewer responses toanticipated discrimination.

Methods

We used data collected for the evaluation of TTC from samples of mental health service users interviewed by telephone in annual surveys 2009-2014.

Results

Five thousand and nine hundredand twenty-three participants completed the survey, mainly suffering from mooddisorders (depression, 28.4%, n = 1,681) and schizophrenia related disorders(15.4%, n = 915).

In 23.2% of cases,participants were aware of any aspects of the TTC program, while participationin TTC was reported by 2.6%. Being aware of the TTC program was notsignificantly associated with responses to anticipated discrimination, exceptfor those participating in the TTC campaign in 2013. Stopping oneself fromapplying for work was significantly associated with experienced discriminationin both finding (p < 0.001) and keeping (p < 0.001) a job.Concealing mental health problems was associated with a general experience ofbeing shunned (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Awareness of a nationalanti-stigma program may not be sufficient to encourage people to seek work/educationor to be open about their illness in situations in which they currentlyanticipate discrimination. There is the need to identify new multi-levelstrategies for challenging anticipated discrimination, even focusing ondifferent target groups.
Thermally invisible sensors
Authors: Xu Liujun , Huang Jipeng , Jiang Tao , Zhang Long , Huang Jiping
Published: December 2020

Accurate temperature detection requires a thermal sensor with high performance. In general, once a thermal sensor is placed in a temperature field, it will distort the temperature field more or less. Therefore, the thermal sensor is inaccurate and thermally visible, which constitutes an issue in many practical applications. Here we propose a bilayer scheme to maintain the original temperatures in both sensor and matrix, yielding an accurate and thermally invisible sensor. By solving the linear Laplace equation (with temperature-independent thermal conductivity), we derive two groups of thermal conductivities to realize thermally invisible sensors, even considering geometrically anisotropic cases. These results can be directly extended to thermally nonlinear cases (with temperature-dependent thermal conductivity), as long as the ratio between the nonlinear thermal conductivities of sensor and matrix is a temperature-independent constant. These explorations are beneficial to temperature detection and provide insights into thermal camouflage.
Natural History of Thyroid Disease in Children with PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome
Authors: Smith Jessica R , Liu Enju , Church Alanna J , Asch Elizabeth , Cherella Christine E , Srivastava Siddharth , Kamihara Junne , Wassner Ari J
Published: December 2020

Context

Thyroid ultrasound screening is recommended in children with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) due to increased risk of thyroid neoplasia, but the natural history of thyroid disease in children with PHTS is unclear.

Objective

Determine the prevalence and natural history of thyroid disease in children with PHTS.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study (1998-2019) in an academic pediatric hospital of individuals with genetically confirmed PHTS diagnosed before age 19 years. Clinical, thyroid ultrasound, and laboratory characteristics are described. Primary outcomes were the prevalence of thyroid nodules ≥10 mm diameter and time course and risk factors for nodule development assessed by Cox regression analysis. Secondary outcomes included thyroid nodule requiring biopsy, other ultrasound findings, and prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Results

Among 64 subjects with PHTS, 50 underwent thyroid ultrasound. A thyroid nodule ≥10 mm was diagnosed in 22/50 (44%) subjects at median (range) age 13.3 (7.0-22.9) years. Nodules were diagnosed earlier in females than in males (10.8 [7.0-17.9] vs 14.2 [9.9-22.9] years, P = .009). In multivariate analysis, risk of thyroid nodules was significantly associated with female sex (hazard ratio 2.90, 95% CI 1.16-7.27, P = .02) and inversely associated with the presence of neurologic findings of PHTS (HR 0.27, 95% CI 0.10-0.69, P = .007). Abnormal-appearing lymph nodes with echogenic foci were observed by ultrasound in 20% of subjects, but these were not associated with malignancy. Autoimmune thyroid disease was present in 10/33 (30.3%) of subjects in whom it was assessed.

Conclusion

Thyroid disease is common in children with PHTS. This study supports current consensus recommendations for ultrasound screening.
АВТОРИТАРНЫЕ И МИНОРИТАРНЫЕ ЯЗЫКОВЫЕ ЛИЧНОСТИ В СОВРЕМЕННОМ ПЕДАГОГИЧЕСКОМ ДИСКУРСЕ
Authors: Paliy Tatyana Pavlovna , Bagiyan Alexander Yurevich
Published: December 2020

Цель. Статья посвящена актуальным в условиях стремительно меняющейся реальности тенденциям развития и изменения педагогической коммуникации в частности и образовательной парадигме в целом. Предметом анализа выступает современный педагогический дискурс, а также комплекс прагма-коммуникативных характеристик метаречевой деятельности субъектов коммуникации. Цель исследования заключается в выявлении характерных особенностей функционирования субъектов педагогического дискурса на основе прагма-коммуникативного подхода.Методология проведения работы. Основу исследования образуют дескриптивный, конвергентный и феноменологический методы, а также принцип дискурсивного моделирования педагогической коммуникативной ситуации.Результаты. В ходе исследования было установлено, что институциональный характер педагогического дискурса предполагает особый характер взаимодействия коммуникантов в рамках метадиалогового общения. Категории адресанта и адресата носят ключевой характер здесь, т.к. каждая категория отличается особым набором прагматических установок, которые помогают коммуникантам достигнуть основной цели общения. Также следует отметить, что функции адресата и адресанта не являются статичными и могут передаваться, сливаться, меняться в рамках одной педагогической коммуникативной ситуации в том или ином социальном контексте.Область применения результатов. Результаты исследования могут быть применены в качестве лекционного теоретико-практического материала по курсам теории дискурса, межкультурной коммуникации теории и практике перевода, аксиологии, стилистики.