bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prehistoric agriculture and social structure in the southwestern Tarim Basin: multiproxy analyses at Wupaer
Authors: Yang Qingjiang , Zhou Xinying , Spengler Robert Nicholas , Zhao Keliang , Liu Junchi , Bao Yige , Jia Peter Weiming , Li Xiaoqiang
Published: August 2020

The oasis villages of the Tarim Basin served as hubs along the ancient Silk Road, and they played an important role in facilitating communication between the imperial centers of Asia. These villages were supported by an irrigated form of cereal farming that was specifically adapted to these early oasis settlements. In this manuscript, we present the results from new archaeobotanical analyses, radiocarbon dating, and organic carbon isotopic studies directly from carbonized seeds at the Wupaer site (1500–400 BC) in the Kashgar Oasis of the western Tarim Basin. Our results showed that early farming in the oasis relied on a mixed wheat and barley system, but after 1200 BC was intensified through more elaborate irrigation, the introduction of more water-demanding legumes, and possibly a greater reliance on free-threshing wheat. These crops and the knowledge of irrigated farming likely dispersed into the Tarim Basin through the mountains from southern Central Asia. Improved agricultural productivity in the Tarim Basin may also have led to demographic and socio-political shifts and fed into the increased exchange that is colloquially referred to as the Silk Road.
Effect of cow-calf contact on cow motivation to reunite with their calf
Authors: Wenker Margret L. , Bokkers Eddie A. M. , Lecorps Benjamin , von Keyserlingk Marina A. G. , van Reenen Cornelis G. , Verwer Cynthia M. , Weary Daniel M.
Published: August 2020

Early cow-calf separation prevents much of cows’ natural maternal behaviour. Early separation is thought to prevent the development of a cow-calf bond. To assess this bond, we measured motivation of dairy cows to reunite with their calf. To vary the degree of bonding, some cows were allowed continued contact with their calf and others were separated from their calf soon after birth, following standard practice on most farms. Among cows allowed continued contact, some were able to suckle their calf and others were prevented from suckling (by covering the cow’s udder with an udder net). Cows were habituated to the weighted-gate apparatus before calving by daily training with the (un-weighted) gate. After calving, cow willingness to use the gate was assessed by determining if she would push open the gate to access to her own calf. Testing occurred once daily, with weight on the gate gradually increased. After passing through the gate, the dam’s calf-directed behaviour was recorded. Suckled cows pushed a greater maximum weight (45.8 ± 7.8 kg) than separated cows (21.6 ± 6.7 kg) and non-suckled cows (24.3 ± 4.5 kg), with no differences between separated and non-suckled cows. Once reunited, latency to make nose contact and duration of licking did not differ between treatments. We conclude that motivation for calf contact is greater for cows that are suckled.
Exploring C4–CAM plasticity within the Portulaca oleracea complex
Authors: Ferrari Renata Callegari , Cruz Bruna Coelho , Gastaldi Vinícius Daguano , Storl Thalyson , Ferrari Elisa Callegari , Boxall Susanna F. , Hartwell James , Freschi Luciano
Published: August 2020

Portulaca oleraceais a C4herb capable of performing CAM under drought stress. It is distributed worldwide and is either considered a polymorphic species or a complex of subspecies, due to its numerous morphological variations. We evaluated CAM plasticity withinP. oleraceagenotypes since the complexity surrounding this species may be reflected in intraspecific variations in photosynthetic behavior. Eleven subspecies ofP. oleraceafrom distant geographical locations and one cultivar were morphologically and physiologically characterized. C4and CAM photosynthesis were monitored in plants exposed to well-watered, droughted and rewatered treatments, and data obtained were compared among individual genotypes. All subspecies expressed CAM in a fully-reversible manner. Transcript abundance of C4–CAM signature genes was shown to be a useful indicator of the C4–CAM–C4switches in all genotypes. C4-related genes were down-regulated and subsequently fully expressed upon drought and rewatering, respectively. CAM-marker genes followed the opposite pattern. A gradient of morphological traits and drought-induced nighttime malate accumulation was observed across genotypes. Therefore, different combinations of CAM expression levels, plant sizes and shapes are available within theP. oleraceacomplex, which can be a valuable tool in the context of C4/CAM photosynthesis research.
RNA-Seq analysis of differentially expressed genes of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from postoperative endophthalmitis and the healthy conjunctiva
Authors: Liu Qing , Chen Nan , Chen Huabo , Huang Yusen
Published: August 2020

Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) is one of the primary pathogens in postoperative endophthalmitis, which is a devastating complication of cataract surgery and often results in irreversible visual loss and even blindness. Meanwhile, it is the most frequently isolated commensal bacterium in the healthy conjunctiva. In this study, we investigated the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of S. epidermidis isolated from the patients with postoperative endophthalmitis and the healthy conjunctiva to predict their functions and pathways by Illumina high-throughput RNA sequencing. Using genome-wide transcriptional analysis, 281 genes (142 upregulated and 139 downregulated genes) were found to be differentially expressed (fold change ≥ 2, p ≤ 0.05) in the strains from endophthalmitis. Ten randomly selected DEGs were further validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). GO enrichment analysis suggested that more DEGs were associated with the thioredoxin system and iron ion metabolism. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that more DEGs were associated with the pathways of the two-component system and pyruvate metabolism. Moreover, the gene SE1634 code for staphylococcal toxin was significantly upregulated in S. epidermidis strains of the endophthalmitis, which might be directly responsible for the pathogenesis of endophthalmitis. In conclusion, this research is helpful for further investigations on genes or pathways related with the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of S. epidermidis endophthalmitis.
The WD40-protein CFAP52/WDR16 is a centrosome/basal body protein and localizes to the manchette and the flagellum in male germ cells
Authors: Tapia Contreras Constanza , Hoyer-Fender Sigrid
Published: August 2020

Development of spermatozoa requires remodelling and formation of particular structures. In elongating spermatids, the transient microtubular manchette contributes to the formation of the head–tail coupling apparatus (HTCA) and the sperm tail. The HTCA derives from the centrosome in that the proximal centriole inserts into the nuclear indentation and the distal centriole gives rise to the sperm flagellum. Although impairments in the formation of HTCA and sperm tail cause male infertility their molecular constituents are only partially known. The WD40-protein CFAP52 is implicated in motile cilia, but its relevance for male germ cell differentiation is not known. Here we show that CFAP52 is widespread expressed and localizes to a subset of microtubular structures. In male germ cells, CFAP52 is a component of the transient manchette and the sperm tail. However, expression of Cfap52 is not restricted to motile cilia-bearing cells. In NIH3T3 cells, CFAP52 localizes to the centrosome, the basal body, and the mitotic spindle poles, but not to the primary cilium. Our results demonstrate that CFAP52 is not restricted to motile cilia but instead most likely functions in constituting the centrosome/basal body matrix and the sperm tail.
Predicting risk of late age-related macular degeneration using deep learning
Authors: Peng Yifan , Keenan Tiarnan D. , Chen Qingyu , Agrón Elvira , Allot Alexis , Wong Wai T. , Chew Emily Y. , Lu Zhiyong
Published: August 2020

By 2040, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) will affect ~288 million people worldwide. Identifying individuals at high risk of progression to late AMD, the sight-threatening stage, is critical for clinical actions, including medical interventions and timely monitoring. Although deep learning has shown promise in diagnosing/screening AMD using color fundus photographs, it remains difficult to predict individuals’ risks of late AMD accurately. For both tasks, these initial deep learning attempts have remained largely unvalidated in independent cohorts. Here, we demonstrate how deep learning and survival analysis can predict the probability of progression to late AMD using 3298 participants (over 80,000 images) from the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies AREDS and AREDS2, the largest longitudinal clinical trials in AMD. When validated against an independent test data set of 601 participants, our model achieved high prognostic accuracy (5-year C-statistic 86.4 (95% confidence interval 86.2–86.6)) that substantially exceeded that of retinal specialists using two existing clinical standards (81.3 (81.1–81.5) and 82.0 (81.8–82.3), respectively). Interestingly, our approach offers additional strengths over the existing clinical standards in AMD prognosis (e.g., risk ascertainment above 50%) and is likely to be highly generalizable, given the breadth of training data from 82 US retinal specialty clinics. Indeed, during external validation through training on AREDS and testing on AREDS2 as an independent cohort, our model retained substantially higher prognostic accuracy than existing clinical standards. These results highlight the potential of deep learning systems to enhance clinical decision-making in AMD patients.
A spatial regime shift from predator to prey dominance in a large coastal ecosystem
Authors: Eklöf Johan S. , Sundblad Göran , Erlandsson Mårten , Donadi Serena , Hansen Joakim P. , Eriksson Britas Klemens , Bergström Ulf
Published: August 2020

Regime shifts in ecosystem structure and processes are typically studied from a temporal perspective. Yet, theory predicts that in large ecosystems with environmental gradients, shifts should start locally and gradually spread through space. Here we empirically document a spatially propagating shift in the trophic structure of a large aquatic ecosystem, from dominance of large predatory fish (perch, pike) to the small prey fish, the three-spined stickleback. Fish surveys in 486 shallow bays along the 1200 km western Baltic Sea coast during 1979–2017 show that the shift started in wave-exposed archipelago areas near the open sea, but gradually spread towards the wave-sheltered mainland coast. Ecosystem surveys in 32 bays in 2014 show that stickleback predation on juvenile predators (predator–prey reversal) generates a feedback mechanism that appears to reinforce the shift. In summary, managers must account for spatial heterogeneity and dispersal to better predict, detect and confront regime shifts within large ecosystems.
Surface rupture and shallow fault reactivation during the 2019 Mw 4.9 Le Teil earthquake, France
Authors: Ritz Jean-François , Baize Stéphane , Ferry Matthieu , Larroque Christophe , Audin Laurence , Delouis Bertrand , Mathot Emmanuel
Published: August 2020

The Rhône River Valley in France, a densely populated area with many industrial facilities including several nuclear power plants, was shaken on November 11th 2019, by the Mw 4.9 Le Teil earthquake. Here, we report field, seismological and interferometric synthetic-aperture radar observations indicating that the earthquake occurred at a very shallow focal depth on a southeast-dipping reverse-fault. We show evidence of surface rupture and up to 15 cm uplift of the hanging wall along a northeast-southwest trending discontinuity with a length of about 5 km. Together, these lines of evidence suggest that the Oligocene La Rouvière fault was reactivated. Based on the absence of geomorphic evidence of cumulative compressional deformation along the fault, we suggest that it had not ruptured for several thousand or even tens of thousands of years. Our observations raise the question of whether displacement from surface rupture represents a hazard in regions with strong tectonic inheritance and very low strain rates.
Praseodymium hydroxide/gold-supported precursor: a new strategy for preparing stable and active catalyst for the water-gas shift reaction
Authors: Shi Junjie , Li Hailian , Zhao Weixuan , Qi Pengfei , Wang Hongxin
Published: August 2020

Rod-shaped praseodymium hydroxide (Pr(OH)x) as a hydroxyl- and O vacancy-rich support can promote the dispersion and stabilization of Au species show high activity and stability for water gas shift reaction, and holds great promise in the field of heterogeneous catalysis.
Post-functionalization through covalent modification of organic counter ions: a stepwise and controlled approach for novel hybrid polyoxometalate materials
Authors: Kar Aranya , Pradeep Chullikkattil P.
Published: August 2020

Post-functionalization of Class I type aromatic sulfonium POM hybrids is achieved through the covalent modification of counter ions in a simple mechano-chemical approach.
Synthesis and antiproliferative activity of hindered, chiral 1,2-diaminodiamantane platinum(ii) complexes
Authors: Bakhonsky Vladyslav V. , Pashenko Aleksander A. , Becker Jonathan , Hausmann Heike , De Groot Huub J. M. , Overkleeft Herman S. , Fokin Andrey A. , Schreiner Peter R.
Published: August 2020

Platinum-based antineoplastic agents play a major role in the treatment of numerous types of cancer.
Transition metal-doped MgO nanoparticles for nutrient recycling: an alternate Mg source for struvite synthesis from wastewater
Authors: Silva Manoj , Murzin Vadim , Zhang Lihua , Baltrus John , Baltrusaitis Jonas
Published: August 2020

Nanostructured MgO doped with transition metals has been used to recycle nutrients from wastewaterviastruvite crystallization.
Technical integrative approaches to cheese whey valorization towards sustainable environment
Authors: Addai Frank Peprah , Lin Feng , Wang Taotao , Kosiba Anthony A. , Sheng Pengcheng , Yu Feng , Gu Jie , Zhou Yang , Shi Haifeng
Published: August 2020

The present work discusses emerging approaches by which cheese whey can be efficiently valorized for environmental and economic benefits.
Recent developments of small molecule γ-secretase modulators for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Mekala Shekar , Nelson Grady , Li Yue-Ming
Published: August 2020

This review article highlights the recent progress and outlook for small molecule gamma secretase modulators for potential Alzheimer's therapies.
Longitudinal biometal accumulation and Ca isotope composition of the Göttingen minipig brain
Authors: Mahan Brandon , Antonelli Michael A , Burckel Pierre , Turner Simon , Chung Roger , Habekost Mette , Jørgensen Arne Lund , Moynier Frédéric
Published: August 2020

Biometals play a critical role in both the healthy and diseased brain's functioning. They accumulate in the normal aging brain, and are inherent to neurodegenerative disorders and their associated pathologies. A prominent example of this is the brain accumulation of metals such as Ca, Fe and Cu (and more ambiguously, Zn) associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The natural stable isotope compositions of such metals have also shown utility in constraining biological mechanisms, and in differentiating between healthy and diseased states, sometimes prior to conventional methods. Here we have detailed the distribution of the biologically relevant elements Mg, P, K, Ca, Fe, Cu and Zn in brain regions of Göttingen minipigs ranging in age from three months to nearly six years, including control animals and both a single- and double-transgenic model of AD (PS1, APP/PS1). Moreover, we have characterized the Ca isotope composition of the brain for the first time. Concentration data track rises in brain biometals with age, namely for Fe and Cu, as observed in the normal ageing brain and in AD, and biometal data point to increased soluble amyloid beta (Aβ) load prior to AD plaque identification via brain imaging. Calcium isotope results define the brain as the isotopically lightest permanent reservoir in the body, indicating that brain Ca dyshomeostasis may induce measurable isotopic disturbances in accessible downstream reservoirs such as biofluids.
Electrochemical asymmetric synthesis of biologically active substances
Authors: Phillips Ana Maria Faisca , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: August 2020

This review discusses the literature published in the last ten years on electrochemically driven oxidation and reduction reactions utilized in the asymmetric synthesis of biologically active substances.
Improved NO reduction by using metal–organic framework derived MnOx–ZnO
Authors: Zhao Ling , Chen Ziang , Zhang Peng , Zhang Yu
Published: August 2020

Derivatives based on metal frameworks (MOFs) are attracting more and more attention in various research fields.
An antibacterial and biocompatible multilayer biomedical coating capable of healing damages
Authors: Zhao Yongxun , Liang Yuan , Zou Qianqian , Ma Libin , Wang Yuping , Zhu Yanxi
Published: August 2020

A CS/CMC multilayer polyelectrolyte coating was developed, which features fast and efficient self-healing property, high antibacterial property, and excellent biocompatibility.
Structural and morphological tuning of iron oxide polymorphs by ECR plasma-assisted thermal oxidation
Authors: More Supriya , Raut Suyog , Premkumar S. , Bhopale Somnath , Bhoraskar Sudha , More Mahendra , Mathe Vikas
Published: August 2020

Schematic representation of Plasma-Assisted Thermal Oxidation (PATO)-processed M-Fe and N-Fe films with surface morphologies at optimized oxygen pressures.
Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 main protease by phenolic compounds from Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.) Dubard assisted by metabolite profiling and in silico virtual screening
Authors: Abd El-Mordy Fatma M. , El-Hamouly Mohamed M. , Ibrahim Magda T. , El-Rheem Gehad Abd , Aly Omar M. , Abd El-kader Adel M. , Youssif Khayrya A. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan
Published: August 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during the outbreak in Wuhan, China in 2019.
Chemical composition, nutraceuticals characterization, NMR confirmation of squalene and antioxidant activities ofBasella rubraL. seed oil
Authors: Kumar Sandopu Sravan , Manasa Vallamkondu , Tumaney Ajay W. , B. K. Bettadaiah , Chaudhari Sachin Rama , Giridhar Parvatam
Published: August 2020

Basella rubra(Malabar spinach) is a commonly consumed green leafy vegetable in southern parts of India.
Anti-flammability, mechanical and thermal properties of bio-based rigid polyurethane foams with the addition of flame retardants
Authors: Zhang Guangyu , Lin Xiaoqi , Zhang Qinqin , Jiang Kaisen , Chen Weisheng , Han Dezhi
Published: August 2020

Bio-based rigid polyurethane foams with the addition of flame retardant exhibit preferable flame-retardant properties.
Regioselective C–H sulfenylation of N-sulfonyl protected 7-azaindoles promoted by TBAI: a rapid synthesis of 3-thio-7-azaindoles
Authors: Hu Jingyan , Ji Xiaoming , Hao Shuai , Zhao Mingqin , Lai Miao , Ren Tianbao , Xi Gaolei , Wang Erbin , Wang Juanjuan , Wu Zhiyong
Published: August 2020

A novel, practical and highly regioselective TBAI promoted C-3 sulfenylation reaction of N-sulfonyl protected 7-azaindoles with sulfonyl chlorides is presented here.
Correction: Tantalum(v) 1,3-propanediolate β-diketonate solution as a precursor to sol–gel derived, metal oxide thin films
Authors: Beale Christopher , Hamacher Stefanie , Yakushenko Alexey , Bensaid Oumaima , Willbold Sabine , Beltramo Guillermo , Möller Sören , Hartmann Heinrich , Neumann Elmar , Mussler Gregor , Shkurmanov Alexander , Mayer Dirk , Wolfrum Bernhard , Offenhäusser Andreas
Published: August 2020

Correction for ‘Tantalum(v) 1,3-propanediolate β-diketonate solution as a precursor to sol–gel derived, metal oxide thin films’ by Christopher Beale et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 13737–13748, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA02558E.
Co-nonsolvency in concentrated aqueous solutions of PNIPAM: effect of methanol on the collective and the chain dynamics
Authors: Raftopoulos Konstantinos N. , Kyriakos Konstantinos , Nuber Matthias , Niebuur Bart-Jan , Holderer Olaf , Ohl Michael , Ivanova Oxana , Pasini Stefano , Papadakis Christine M.
Published: August 2020

The polymer dynamics in concentrated solutions of poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) in water/methanol mixtures is investigated using light and neutron scattering.
Cluster prevalence in concentrated ring-chain mixtures under shear
Authors: Liebetreu Maximilian , Likos Christos N.
Published: August 2020

Mixing semiflexible linear chains and rings conserves cluster glass also under shear while altering effective density of the concentrated solution.
Fabrication and characterization of lignin–xylan hybrid nanospheres as pesticide carriers with enzyme-mediated release property
Authors: Jiang Yuehan , Chen Yiyi , Tian Dong , Shen Feiyue , Wan Xue , Xu Lu , Chen Yichu , Zhang Haozhe , Hu Jinguang , Shen Fei
Published: August 2020

Lignin–xylan hybrid nanospheres prepared by self-assembly is a smart material platform for pesticide encapsulation and enzyme-mediated release.
Recent advances in nanostructured metal phosphides as promising anode materials for rechargeable batteries
Authors: Li Zhifa , Zheng Yun , Liu Quanyi , Wang Yanqing , Wang Donghui , Li Zekun , Zheng Penglun , Liu Zhihong
Published: August 2020

Recent advances and future concerns in nanostructured metal phosphide anodes for rechargeable Li-, Na-, and K-ion batteries.
Metal-free heterojunction of black phosphorus/oxygen-enriched porous g-C3N4 as an efficient photocatalyst for Fenton-like cascade water purification
Authors: Hu Jundie , Chen Cao , Hu Tao , Li Jingsha , Lu Hao , Zheng Yang , Yang Xiaogang , Guo Chunxian , Li Chang Ming
Published: August 2020

Here we present a fascinating design to synthesize a metal-free photocatalyst for highly selective H2O2 production and efficient water purification via a Fenton-like cascade reaction.
Thermal conductance in single molecules and self-assembled monolayers: physicochemical insights, progress, and challenges
Authors: Park Sohyun , Jang Jiung , Kim Hojin , Park Dong Il , Kim Kyeongtae , Yoon Hyo Jae
Published: August 2020

Recent advances in the physicochemical understanding of thermal transport across molecular junctions of single molecules and monolayers are discussed.
A thermoresponsive gel photoreleasing nitric oxide for potential ocular applications
Authors: Seggio Mimimorena , Tessaro André Luiz , Nostro Antonia , Ginestra Giovanna , Graziano Adriana C. E. , Cardile Venera , Acierno Stefano , Russo Pietro , Catanzano Ovidio , Quaglia Fabiana , Sortino Salvatore
Published: August 2020

A thermoresponsive gel integrating a NO photodonor shows physico-chemical stability in simulated tear fluid, releases NO under daylight conditions, is well tolerated by corneal cells and exhibits photobactericidal action towards Staphylococcus aureus.
Conducting polymer percolation gas sensor on a flexible substrate
Authors: Armitage Ben I. , Murugappan Krishnan , Lefferts Merel J. , Cowsik Aditya , Castell Martin R.
Published: August 2020

Electrochemically bridging the gap between metallic IDE fingers at the percolation threshold for highly sensitive chemiresistors on PET flexible substrates.
Realizing red/orange emission of Eu2+/Ce3+ in La26−xSrxSi41Ox+1N80−x (x = 12.72–12.90) phosphors for high color rendition white LEDs
Authors: Zhang Yingxue , Li Shuxing , Takeda Takashi , Funahashi Shiro , Hirosaki Naoto , Xie Rong-Jun
Published: August 2020

Red/orange-emitting phosphors in the system of La–Sr–Si–O–N were discovered by the single-particle diagnosis approach.
Lattice marginal reconstruction-enabled high ambient-tolerance perovskite quantum dot phototransistors
Authors: Zhan Shijie , Fan Xiang-Bing , Zhang Jiangbin , Yang Jiajie , Bang Sang Yun , Han Soo Deok , Shin Dong-Wook , Lee Sanghyo , Choi Hyung Woo , Wang Xiaozhi , Hou Bo , Occhipinti Luigi G. , Kim Jong Min
Published: August 2020

Medium-solvent-treated oxide/perovskite quantum dot hybrid phototransistors exhibited enhanced photoresponsivity and ambient tolerance based on a surface reconstruction phenomenon on quantum dots, which suppressed penetration of water molecules.
Sequential Bilateral Cochlear Implantation With Prolonged Time Intervals
Authors: Zhang Zhikai , Wei Chaogang , Zhang Yanmei , Zeng Zhengang , Cao Keli , Liu Yuhe
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to assess whether sequential cochlear implantation (CI) with a prolonged interimplant interval (
M
= 15.2 years) between the first and second CIs benefited speech recognition and health-related quality of life.

Method

This prospective study included 14 prelingually deafened participants who received their second CI after a prolonged interimplant interval (
M
= 15.2 years). Additionally, speech recognition ability over a 12-month period of bilateral implant use was investigated. The results of the speech recognition test in both quiet and noisy conditions were statistically analyzed for each CI alone and both CIs together. Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire scores were also collected at activation and at 12 months after activation.

Results

Improvements in speech recognition ability were observed following the use of the first implant alone and with the use of both implants together; however, progress was much slower with the use of the second implant alone, following its introduction. Furthermore, a significant difference in the trajectory of speech recognition ability was observed between the first and the second implanted ear. According to Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire scores, all participants benefitted from bilateral CI after 12 months.

Conclusions

Prolonged interimplant intervals resulted in asymmetrical speech recognition abilities. A significant improvement in the speech recognition scores was observed with the first implanted ear, and much slower progress was observed with the second implanted ear. However, the “poorer” second implanted ear could provide a considerable beneficial effect on the improved speech recognition and health-related quality of life with the bilateral CI.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12861152
Österreichische Bewegungsempfehlungen für Erwachsene
und ältere Erwachsene ohne und mit Körper-, Sinnes- oder
Mentalbehinderung sowie für Menschen mit chronischen
Erkrankungen
Authors: Titze Sylvia , Lackinger Christian , Fessl Christian , Dorner Thomas Ernst , Zeuschner Verena
Published: August 2020

Es ist wissenschaftlich überzeugend belegt, dass durch
regelmäßige Bewegung die körperliche, psychische und
geistige Gesundheit positiv beeinflusst wird. Zielgruppenspezifisch formulierte
Empfehlungen sind ein erster wesentlicher Baustein zur Förderung von
Bewegung in der Bevölkerung. In diesem Beitrag werden die aktualisierten
Österreichischen Bewegungsempfehlungen für Erwachsene und
ältere Erwachsene ohne und mit Körper-, Sinnes- oder
Mentalbehinderung sowie für erwachsene Menschen mit chronischen
Erkrankungen vorgestellt und deren Inhalte kommentiert. Als wissenschaftliche
Grundlage und Vorlage dafür wurden die umfangreiche
Literaturaufbereitung aus den USA sowie die daraus resultierenden
Bewegungsempfehlungen verwendet. Neu in Österreich wurden
Bewegungsempfehlungen für die Zielgruppe „Menschen mit
chronischen Erkrankungen“ erstellt. Weiter werden keine separaten
Bewegungsempfehlungen für Menschen mit Behinderung verfasst, sondern die
Bewegungsempfehlungen wurden für Erwachsene und ältere
Erwachsene ohne und mit Behinderung formuliert. Statt der Nennung eines
Schwellenwertes zur Unterscheidung zwischen Bewegungsempfehlungen
erfüllt/nicht erfüllt, wird neu empfohlen, zwischen 150
bis 300 Minuten Bewegung mit mittlerer Intensität
auszuüben. Mit der Nennung der Empfehlungen für
muskelkräftigende Übungen vor den ausdauerorientierten
Bewegungsempfehlungen wird auf die Wichtigkeit muskelkräftigender
Aktivitäten aufmerksam gemacht. Nachdrücklich wird darauf
hingewiesen, sitzende Tätigkeiten immer wieder zu unterbrechen. Die
Veröffentlichung von Bewegungsempfehlungen ist eine von vielen
Strategien zur Gesundheitsförderung durch Bewegung. In der Umsetzung
erfolgreich werden wir nur sein, wenn alle Bevölkerungsgruppen faire
Möglichkeiten bekommen, Bewegungskompetenz zu erwerben und
bewegungsfreundliche Rahmenbedingungen zur regelmäßigen
Ausübung von Bewegung geschaffen werden.
Botulinum Toxin Injections as a Treatment of Postoperative Chronic Neck Pain Secondary to Cervical Spine Surgery
Authors: Meiling James , Barndt Brandon , Raum George , Schulze David
Published: August 2020

Postoperative neck pain is a relatively common consequence of cervical spine surgeries such as anterior cervical discectomy with fusion and laminoplasty. Botulinum toxin injections are a relatively new treatment option to target muscle spasms, a possible cause of postoperative neck pain. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature highlighting the utilization of botulinum toxin for treating postoperative neck pain. The literature search resulted in one preliminary case–control trial, one case series and one case report. The use of Botox in these studies had promising benefits on postoperative neck pain, by reducing visual analog scores and improving objective measures of muscle tone such as cervical lordosis angle. While not seen in these studies, the use of botulinum toxin injections into the muscles of the region of the head, neck, and shoulder is not without risks such as focal muscle loss, joint instability, and respiratory and swallowing difficulty. With this in mind, while botulinum toxin may be a promising treatment for these patients, further well-designed studies are needed to further assess the treatments efficacy and safety in this patient population.
Modified Extended External Fixator Frame for Leg Elevation in Trauma
Authors: Sawant Venkatesh Rajaram , Gharwade Chandrakant Rambhau
Published: August 2020

Lower extremity trauma is very often managed by applying an external fixator to stabilize the fracture site. These limbs very frequently require multiple surgeries, which predisposes them to problems like heel pressure sore, equinus deformity and limb edema. These complications prolong the healing time and create obstacles in rehabilitation. Our aim was to modify the usual uniplanar external fixator in such a way that it is able to provide stable limb elevation and also keep the leg and the foot in such a position, so as to avoid the above-mentioned complications. We used our frame in 10 patients and none of our patients developed heel ulceration or equinus deformity. We found that the frame enables easier daily examination of the wound and improves patient comfort during dressing changes.
Oncoplastic Approach to Giant Benign Breast Tumors Presenting as Unilateral Macromastia
Authors: Malathi Lekshmi
Published: August 2020

Benign breast tumors attaining large size constitute an important cause of unilateral macromastia. Their usual treatment involves enucleation or excision with a margin based on pathology and waiting for spontaneous retraction of skin envelope. In very large tumors, this will leave the residual breast deflated and unaesthetic, with spontaneous skin retraction giving unpredictable results. Application of the principles of oncoplastic surgery are helpful in this situation. Here, we present two cases of benign giant tumors—a giant fibroadenoma and a giant lipoma—managed by reduction mammaplasty approach to restore the breast symmetry and aesthetics.
On the problem of astronomy and popular prejudices: the case of ancient astronomers and NASA funding
Authors: Panagiotarakou Eleni
Published: August 2020

The aim of this paper is to explore the popular prejudices faced by ancient and modern astronomers. In the case of the ancients, this entails examining the astronomer Thales of Miletus (ca. 620 BC–ca. 546 BC) via the analysis of various ancient texts, such as Aristotle’sPolitics, Plato’sTheaetetusand Aristophanes’Clouds. In the case of the moderns, this entails examining the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) agency via its funding history, public opinion polls, and spinoff reports. The findings suggest that NASA’s constant efforts to justify their existence in terms of practical outcomes, mirrors the experience of ancient natural philosophers who were depicted with their “heads in the clouds” and in possession of an epistemology devoid of any practical significance.
Strong convergence of quantum channels: Continuity of the Stinespring dilation and discontinuity of the unitary dilation
Authors: Shirokov M. E.
Published: August 2020

It is shown that a sequence {Φn} of quantum channels strongly converges to a quantum channel Φ0 if and only if there exist a common environment for all the channels and a corresponding sequence {Vn} of Stinespring isometries strongly converging to a Stinespring isometry V0 of the channel Φ0. A quantitative description of the above characterization of the strong convergence in terms of appropriate metrics on the sets of quantum channels and Stinespring isometries is given. As a result, the uniform selective continuity of the complementary operation with respect to the strong convergence is established. The discontinuity of the unitary dilation is shown by constructing a strongly converging sequence of quantum channels that cannot be represented as a reduction of a strongly converging sequence of unitary channels. The Stinespring representation of strongly converging sequences of quantum channels allows us to prove the lower semicontinuity of the entropic disturbance as a function of a pair (channel, input ensemble). Some corollaries of this property are considered.
Separation of variables for quadratic algebras: Algebras of Maillet and reflection-equation algebras
Authors: Skrypnyk T.
Published: August 2020

We consider the problem of variable separation for the classical integrable Hamiltonian systems possessing gl(n)-valued Lax matrices satisfying quadratic Poisson brackets of Freidel and Maillet [Phys. Lett. B 262(2-3), 278 (1991)] with spectral-parameter dependent a-b-c-d tensors. We formulate, in terms of the corresponding a-b-c-d tensors, a sufficient condition that guarantees that the separating functions A(u), B(u) of Sklyanin [Commun. Math. Phys. 150(1), 181 (1992)], Scott [e-print arXiv:hep-th 940303 (1994)], and Gekhtman [Commun. Math. Phys. 167, 593 (1995)] produce canonical coordinates. We consider an important subcase of a-b-c-d algebras, namely, the case of classical reflection equation algebras [E. Sklyanin, J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 21(10), 2357 (1988)], and formulate, in terms of the corresponding r-s-matrices, the analogous sufficient condition that guarantees the canonicity of the constructed coordinates. For the case s = 0, we recover our previous results on the variable separation for quadratic Sklyanin brackets [B. Dubrovin and T. Skrypnyk, J. Math. Phys. 60, 093506 (2019)]. We consider an example of gl(n) ⊗ gl(n)-valued trigonometric a-b-c-d tensors that satisfy the considered condition and find a class of Lax matrices for them for which the obtained set of canonical coordinates is complete.
Deterministic quantum entanglement between macroscopic ferrite samples
Authors: Nair Jayakrishnan M. P. , Agarwal G. S.
Published: August 2020

We show how macroscopic magnetic samples like yttrium iron garnet samples are excellent candidates for producing deterministic quantum entanglement and, thus, providing a platform for quantum information science. This requires strong coupling with a high quality cavity, which, in turn, provides an effective coupling between the two samples. For modest values of the squeezing of the pump, we obtain significant entanglement between the two garnet samples. This is the principal feature of our scheme. We present a number of tests for entanglement in terms of the experimentally observed quantities and, in this way, unfold a paradigm for producing entanglement. We also generate quantum states of collective magnon variables.
A general automatic method for optimal construction of matrix product operators using bipartite graph theory
Authors: Ren Jiajun , Li Weitang , Jiang Tong , Shuai Zhigang
Published: August 2020

Constructing matrix product operators (MPOs) is at the core of the modern density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) and its time dependent formulation. For the DMRG to be conveniently used in different problems described by different Hamiltonians, in this work, we propose a new generic algorithm to construct the MPO of an arbitrary operator with a sum-of-products form based on the bipartite graph theory. We show that the method has the following advantages: (i) it is automatic in that only the definition of the operator is required; (ii) it is symbolic thus free of any numerical error; (iii) the complementary operator technique can be fully employed so that the resulting MPO is globally optimal for any given order of degrees of freedom; and (iv) the symmetry of the system could be fully employed to reduce the dimension of MPO. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the new algorithm, the MPOs of Hamiltonians ranging from the prototypical spin–boson model and the Holstein model to the more complicated ab initio electronic Hamiltonian and the anharmonic vibrational Hamiltonian with the sextic force field are constructed. It is found that for the former three cases, our automatic algorithm can reproduce exactly the same MPOs as the optimally hand-crafted ones already known in the literature.
Simplified time-dependent density functional theory (sTD-DFT) for molecular optical rotation
Authors: de Wergifosse Marc , Seibert Jakob , Grimme Stefan
Published: August 2020

Theoretical methods able to screen large sets (e.g., conformers) of possibly large compounds are needed in many typical quantum chemistry applications. For this purpose, we here extend the well-established simplified time-dependent density functional theory (sTD-DFT) method for the calculation of optical rotation. This new scheme is benchmarked against 42 compounds of the OR45 set as well as thirteen helicene derivatives and one bio-molecular system. The sTD-DFT method yields optical rotations in good quantitative agreement with experiment for compounds with a valence-dominated response, e.g., conjugated π-systems, at a small fraction of the computational cost compared to TD-DFT (1–3 orders of magnitude speed-up). For smaller molecules with a Rydberg state dominated response, the agreement between TD-DFT and the simplified version using standard hybrid functionals is somewhat worse but still reasonable for typical applications. Our new implementation in the stda code enables computations for systems with up to 1000 atoms, e.g., for studying flexible bio-molecules.
Multivalent weak interactions enhance selectivity of interparticle binding
Authors: Scheepers M. R. W. , van IJzendoorn L. J. , Prins M. W. J.
Published: August 2020

Significance

The selectivity of binding of colloidal particles is an important research topic for the field of targeted drug delivery. Extensive theoretical work has shown that high selectivity can be obtained by using multivalent weak interactions. Here we provide comprehensive experimental proof using DNA-coated particles. The ligand–receptor affinity is varied by changing the number of complementary bases, showing that fewer complementary bases yield a higher binding selectivity. The experimental data and corresponding numerical model simulations demonstrate the scaling behavior between molecular density, molecular affinity, and resulting density selectivity of interparticle binding. These results are important for the design of novel systems for targeted nanoparticle drug delivery.
Metaphor and mental language in late-medieval nominalism
Authors: Roques Magali
Published: August 2020

In this paper, I intend to examine the conception of metaphor developed by fourteenth-century nominalist
philosophers, in particular William of Ockham and John Buridan, but also the Ockhamist philosophers who were condemned by the 1340
statute of the faculty of arts of the University of Paris. According to these philosophers, metaphor is a transfer of meaning from
one word to another. This transfer is based on some similarity, and is intentionally produced by a speaker. My aim is to study
whether this view on metaphor is related to a specific view on the relation between thought, language, and communication. With
this case study, I intend to argue that the view on the nature of thought one holds does not necessarily determine what the nature
and function of metaphor are. I will show that the three philosophical doctrines under study diverge in their understanding of the
mechanisms of a metaphor, while they share the same view on the nature of thought, namely that thought is a mental language.
A single seed treatment mediated through reactive oxygen species increases germination, growth performance, and abiotic stress tolerance inArabidopsisand rice
Authors: Kamal Md Mostafa , Erazo Carlos , Tanino Karen K , Kawamura Yukio , Kasuga Jun , Laarveld Bernard , Olkowski Andrew , Uemura Matsuo
Published: August 2020

Hydroxyl radical (•OH) is considered to be the most damaging among reactive oxygen species. Although afew studies have reported on its effects on growth and stress adaptation of plants, no detailed studies have been performed using •OH in germination and early seedling growth under abiotic stresses. Here we report a single seed treatment with •OH on germination and seedling growth of Arabidopsis and rice under non-stressed (ambient) and various abiotic-stressed conditions (chilling, high temperature, heat, and salinity). The treatment resulted in faster seed germination and early seedling growth under non-stressed conditions, and, interestingly, these effects were more prominent under abiotic stresses. In addition, Arabidopsis seedlings from treated seeds showed faster root growth and developed more lateral roots. These results show apositive and potential practical use for •OH in model and crop plants for direct seeding in the field, as well as improvement of tolerance against emerging stresses.

Abbreviations: AUC: area under curve; MGT: mean germination time; t50: time to reach 50% germination; U7525: time for uniform germination from 25% to 75%; ROS: reactive oxygen species; GSI: germination speed index; SI: stress index; DI: dormancy index
Detection of 30 bp DNA fragments with a sensitive modified Southern blot analysis
Authors: Takabatake Reona , Kaneko Machiko , Yanagida Makiko , Kitta Kazumi
Published: August 2020

To evaluate crops generated by new breeding techniques, it is important to confirm the removal of recombinant DNAs (rDNAs) derived from foreign genes including unintentionally introduced short rDNA(s). We attempted to develop a sensitive detection method for such short rDNAs using Southern blot analysis and performed a model study targeting single-copy endogenous genes in plants. To increase the detection sensitivity, the general protocol for Southern blot analysis was modified. In the model study, we used endogenous-gene-targeting probes in which complementary sequences were serially replaced by dummy sequences, and detected complementary sequences as well as 30 bp. We further evaluated the sensitivity using short rDNAs derived from GM sequences as pseudoinsertions, and the results demonstrated that rDNA-insertions as small as 30 bp could be detected. The results suggested that unintentionally introduced rDNA-insertions were 30 bp or more in length could be detected by the Southern blot analysis.
Characterization of brain‐derived extracellular vesicles reveals changes in cellular origin after stroke and enrichment of the prion protein with a potential role in cellular uptake
Authors: Brenna Santra , Altmeppen Hermann C. , Mohammadi Behnam , Rissiek Björn , Schlink Florence , Ludewig Peter , Krisp Christoph , Schlüter Hartmut , Failla Antonio Virgilio , Schneider Carola , Glatzel Markus , Puig Berta , Magnus Tim
Published: August 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important means of intercellular communication and a potent tool for regenerative therapy. In ischaemic stroke, transient blockage of a brain artery leads to a lack of glucose and oxygen in the affected brain tissue, provoking neuronal death by necrosis in the core of the ischaemic region. The fate of neurons in the surrounding penumbra region depends on the stimuli, including EVs, received during the following hours. A detailed characterization of such stimuli is crucial not only for understanding stroke pathophysiology but also for new therapeutic interventions. In the present study, we characterize the EVs in mouse brain under physiological conditions and 24 h after induction of transient ischaemia in mice. We show that, in steady‐state conditions, microglia are the main source of small EVs (sEVs), whereas after ischaemia the main sEV population originates from astrocytes. Brain sEVs presented high amounts of the prion protein (PrP), which were further increased after stroke. Moreover, EVs were enriched in a proteolytically truncated PrP fragment (PrP‐C1). Because of similarities between PrP‐C1 and certain viral surface proteins, we studied the cellular uptake of brain‐derived sEVs from mice lacking (PrP‐KO) or expressing PrP (WT). We show that PrP‐KO‐sEVs are taken up significantly faster and more efficiently than WT‐EVs by primary neurons. Furthermore, microglia and astrocytes engulf PrP‐KO‐sEVs more readily than WT‐sEVs. Our results provide novel information on the relative contribution of brain cell types to the sEV pool in murine brain and indicate that increased release of sEVs by astrocytes together with elevated levels of PrP in sEVs may play a role in intercellular communication at early stages after stroke. In addition, amounts of PrP (and probably PrP‐C1) in brain sEVs seem to contribute to regulating their cellular uptake.
Plasma extracellular vesicles detected by Single Molecule array technology as a liquid biopsy for colorectal cancer
Authors: Wei Ping , Wu Fei , Kang Bin , Sun Xiaohua , Heskia Fabienne , Pachot Alexandre , Liang Ji , Li Dawei
Published: August 2020

Circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) were recognized as a promising source of diagnostic biomarker. However, there are limited studies published in this area, partly due to the limited number of detection platforms capable of detecting extracellular vesicles. In this study, extracellular vesicle immunoassays were developed using the Single Molecule array technology (SiMoa) and their clinical applications to cancer diagnosis were evaluated. Two extracellular vesicle detection assays, CD9‐CD63 and Epcam‐CD63, were designed to detect universal extracellular vesicles and tumour‐derived extracellular vesicles, respectively. Our results show that CD9‐CD63 and Epcam‐CD63 SiMoa assays specifically detect extracellular vesicles but not free proteins with high sensitivities. The Epcam‐CD63 levels detected in cancer cell culture media were consistent with levels of Epcam‐expressing EVs isolated from the same cancer cell lines and detected by Western blot. Furthermore, the assays distinguish cancerous from non‐cancerous plasma samples. The highest CD9‐CD63 and Epcam‐CD63 signals were observed in colorectal cancer patients comparing to healthy and benign controls. Both assays showed superior diagnostic performance for colorectal cancer. In addition, our results show that CD9‐CD63 detection is an independent prognosis factor for both progression free survival and overall survival, while Epcam‐CD63 detectionis an independent prognosis factor for OS.