bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating depth into habitat use descriptions for sailfish Istiophorus platypterus and habitat overlap with other billfishes in the western North Atlantic
Authors: Bubley WJ , Galuardi B , Dukes AW , Jenkins WE
Published: January 2020

The sailfish Istiophorus platypterus is a circumglobal billfish species. It is commonly targeted in recreational fisheries and caught as by-catch in commercial fisheries, and therefore fisheries management would benefit from an enhanced understanding of basic patterns of the species’ daily and seasonal movements. Between 2002 and 2007, 87 billfish were tagged with pop-off satellite archival tags in the Atlantic waters off the coast of South Carolina, USA, including sailfish (n = 54), blue marlin Makaira nigricans (n = 15), and white marlin Kajikia albida (n = 18). Only fish meeting specific tag program criteria and length of tag attachment were selected for further analysis (sailfish, n = 19; blue marlin, n = 4; white marlin, n = 3). Differential horizontal and vertical movement patterns were observed within sailfish by season. Two- and three-dimensional (3D) analyses showed differential spatial niche use by sailfish. Among the istiophorid species, 3D analysis showed less overlap when occupying similar horizontal areas. The results from this study, in conjunction with similar studies from other areas, provide a better understanding of habitat usage that can be applied to address uncertainties in ecology or management, such as characterization of stock structure, identifying potential spawning habitat or intra-specific competition, providing correction factors for indices of abundance, and characterizing vulnerability to fishing gear.
Seasonal and interannual variability of phytoplankton abundance and community composition on the Central Coast of California
Authors: Barth A , Walter RK , Robbins I , Pasulka A
Published: January 2020

Variations in the abundance and composition of phytoplankton greatly impact ecosystem structure and function. Within the California Current System (CCS), phytoplankton community structure is tightly coupled to seasonal variability in wind-driven coastal upwelling, a process that drives changes in coastal water temperatures and nutrient concentrations. Based on approximately a decade (2008-2018) of weekly phytoplankton measurements, this study provides the first characterization of the seasonal and interannual variability of phytoplankton abundance and composition in San Luis Obispo (SLO) Bay, an understudied region within the CCS. Overall, the seasonality of phytoplankton in SLO Bay mirrored that of the larger CCS; diatoms dominated the community during the spring upwelling season, whereas dinoflagellates dominated the community during the fall relaxation period. While we observed considerable interannual variability among phytoplankton taxa, of particular note was the absence of a fall dinoflagellate-dominated period from 2010 through 2013, followed by the return of the fall dinoflagellate-dominated period in 2014. This compositional shift coincided with a major phase shift of both the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO). In addition to exerting a strong influence on the seasonality of phytoplankton community succession and transition between diatom- and dinoflagellate-dominated periods, the state of both the PDO and NPGO also influenced the extent to which environmental conditions (temperature and upwelling winds) could predict community type. These results highlight the importance of long-term datasets and the consideration of large-scale climate patterns when assessing local ecosystem dynamics.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE THE POWER OF TWO UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR IPS SISWA
Authors: Nurbaini Nurbaini
Published: January 2020

This study was initiated by the low learning outcomes of social studies students at SDN 006 Muara Lembu. The purpose of this research is to improve students' social studies learning outcomes by applying the power of two cooperative learning model. This research was conducted at SDN 006 Muara Lembu. When the research was conducted in the even semester of the 2018/2019 school year. The subjects of this study were students of class IV.B SDN 006 Muara Lembu with a total of 22 students consisting of 13 male students and 9 female students. This type of research is a classroom action research study consisting of two cycles, each cycle consisting of planning, implementation, observation and reflection. The results of research conducted prove that, student learning outcomes have increased, from an average base score of 62.7 increased to 73.2 in Cycle I and increased again in cycle II to 87.3. Overall, there was an increase from the baseline score to End of Cycle II at 35.1%. From these results it can be concluded that by applying the power of two type of cooperative learning model can improve the social learning outcomes of students in grade IV.B SDN 006 Muara Lembu.
MENINGKATKAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR PKn MELALUI PEMBELAJARAN COOPERATIF LEARNING TIPE INDEX CARD MATCH SISWA KELAS VI
Authors: Asmanidar Asmanidar
Published: January 2020

This research is motivated by the low motivation to learn class VI students of SD Negeri 021 Tarai Bangun Kampar Regency. This study aims to improve the motivation to study in Class VI students of SD Negeri 021 Tarai Bangun Kampar Regency by using Cooperative Learning Type Index Card Match. The subjects of this study were all Class VI students of SD Negeri 021 Tarai Bangun Kampar Regency, totaling 32 people. The form of research is classroom action research. The research instrument consisted of performance instruments and data collection instruments in the form of teacher activity observation sheets and student activities. The results showed, in Cycle I the research score reached a score of 132 in the high criteria, with an average student learning motivation for each indicator of learning motivation of only 68.8%. While the observations of learning motivation in cycle II reached a score of 163 (in very high criteria), with an average student learning motivation for learning motivation indicators of 84.9%. thus it can be concluded that through cooperative learning index card match type can increase students' PKn learning motivation.
Role of drug on basis of bioactive concentrate from small marine fish in complex therapy of osteoarthritis and degenerative diseases of shoulder joint
Authors: Polyakova Yu. V. , Akhverdyan Yu. R. , Papichev E. V. , Sivordova L. E. , Zavodovsky B. V. , Zborovskaya I. A.
Published: January 2020

The article traced the main provisions on mechanism of action of slow-acting symptom-modifying drugs (SYSADOA): cartilage reparation, influence on nuclear factor κB, IL-6, IL-8, VEGF, transcription factor SOX9, etc. The effectiveness of SYSADOA drugs in the complex treatment of shoulder pain was evaluated. The inclusion of the bioactive concentrate from small sea fish (BCSSF) into the treatment regimen helps to reduce the number of recurrences of pain after the cancellation of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. We revealed a higher percentage of patients with significant pain reduction and restoration of the function of the shoulder joint in the group receiving BCSSF injections. The results of the study suggest the feasibility of including BCSSF in the complex scheme of treatment of pain in the shoulder joint.
New method of evaluating specific bacteriophage activity using HLE-3 cell culture
Authors: Zakharova Yu. A. , Fedotova O. S. , Shmelyova N. A.
Published: January 2020

In the presented study, we evaluated the efficacy of specific bacteriophage activity in vivo for resolution of infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumanii. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii. It was demonstrated that administration of a specific bacteriophage with high lytic activity in an hour leads to a decrease in the adhesive activity of the microorganisms. The duration of the experiment was one hour.
Genetics and epigenetics of pelvic organs prolapse
Authors: Titov D. S. , Dikke G. B.
Published: January 2020

Identification of the genetic variants underlying the heredity of pelvic organ prolapse helps to identify useful markers for assessing clinical risk, prognosis and response to treatment. An association of polymorphisms in the ADRB 3 gene with an overactive bladder and in the COL1A1 gene with PTO was detected. AA mutation of the COL3A1 rs1800255 genotype increases the probability of VET by 4.8 times. There is evidence of involvement in the development of PTO genes of the extracellular matrix degradation group (ECM), which includes genes encoding matrix metalloproteinases. During the study of diseases of the connective tissue, their syntropy was revealed, which is genetically determined as a common risk haplotype of the FBLN 5 gene. The significance of epigenetic mechanisms for the development of VET is shown in the form of lysyl oxidase (LO) gene suppression. So far, the role of factors that induce changes in epigenetic regulation and lead to the appearance of clinical symptoms of prolapse is not clear.
Modern concepts in approaches to determining individual position of media cutters in people with physiological types of bit
Authors: Davydov B. N. , Dmitrienko S. V. , Domenyuk D. A. , Samedov F. V. , Ivanyuta I. V. , Ivanyuta S. О.
Published: January 2020

According to the results of studying cone-beam computed tomograms of the head of 147 people of the first period of adulthood with a full set of permanent teeth and physiological types of occlusion, the average inclinations of the incisors with respect to the occlusal plane and intercavity angles were calculated, and signs of a neutral position were formulated, physiological protrusion and physiological retrusion of incisors. It was revealed that the medial incisors of the upper jaw with the occlusal plane form an angle of 77.05 ± 0.70 degrees. For the neutral position of the incisors, the inclination angle varies from 75 to 80 degrees. A decrease in the incline angle of incisors in people with physiological types of occlusion of less than 75 degrees allowed the indicators to be considered as physiological protrusion, and an increase in the angle of more than 80 degrees characterized physiological retrusion. With the neutral position of the incisors, the intercavity angle averaged 135.49 ± 0.86 degrees. For the neutral position of the incisors, the value of the intersection angle varies from 125 to 145 degrees. The types of dental arches with the protrusive position of the incisors included variants in which the inter-incisal angle was less than 125 degrees. With the physiological retrusion of the incisors, the inter-incisal angle was more than 145 degrees. The results can be used as criteria for assessing the effectiveness of the treatment of patients with occlusion abnormalities.
Practical approaches to laboratory assessment of risk of reсcurent thrombosis in antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Tkachenko O. Yu. , Lapin S. V. , Mazing A. V. , Emanuel V. L.
Published: January 2020

Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) are a heterogenous group of auto‑ antibodies that interact with phospholipids (PL), phospholipid‑protein complexes and phospholipid‑binding proteins. aPLs are pathogenic and associated with the development of thrombosis and pregnancy pathology. The detection of aPLs as a diagnostic indicator is included in the criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) SLISS 2012. Also, aPLs is found in patients with other autoimmune, infectious diseases and cancer, in 10–12 % of elderly and 1–5 % healthy young people, but do not lead to the development of thrombosis and/or miscarriage. Simultaneous detection of aPLs with different tests indicate bad prognosis and a higher risk of clinical manifestation of APS. Triple positivity for classical markers of disease is found in patients with oncoming thrombosis. Another concept is the Global APS Score (GAPSS) that also takes into account the aPL profile as well as conventional cardiovascular risk factor and also some autoantibodies found in systemic disease. Currently, enzyme‑linked immunosorbent analysis (ELISA) are most widely used test for detection of aPLs. The advantage of new methods for detecting aPLs is to improve the parameters of sorption of antigens, automation, multiplex approach. Thus, new techniques can serve as a tool for the detection of aPLs and contribute to improving the quality of diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.
Analysis of level of apoptosis markers in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Polunina O. S. , Voronina L. P. , Mukhambetova G. N. , Maslyaeva G. Yu. , Voronina P. N.
Published: January 2020

Objective. To study and analyze the level of markers of apoptosis of annexin A5 (AnxA5) and Bcl‑2 in patients with past myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICMP), depending on the presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) of a constant form.

Materials and methods. It were examined 43 patients with past MI and 47 patients with ICMP. All patients are divided into subgroups depending on the presence of AF of a constant form (patients with right heart rate and with AF a constant form). As a comparison group, 30 somatically healthy individuals were examined. Plasma levels of Bcl‑2 and AnxA5 in all examined individuals were determined by enzyme immunoassay.

Results. Statistically significant changes in the level of AnxA5 and Bcl‑2 were revealed in all examined patients compared with somatically healthy individuals. It was found that the level of AnxA5 was statistically significantly higher in patients with AF constant form compared with patients with right heart rate and statistically significantly higher in patients with ICMP in the corresponding subgroups (patients with right heart rate and AF constant form) compared with patients with MI. The level of Bcl‑2 was statistically significantly lower in patients with AF constant form compared with patients with right heart rate and statistically significantly lower in patients with ICMP in the corresponding subgroups (patients with the correct rhythm and AF constant form) compared with patients with MI. According to the results of the correlation analysis, statistically significant positive (AnxA5) and negative (Bcl‑2) correlations between the level of apoptosis markers and the duration in the history of AF of a constant form were revealed in all examined patients.

Conclusion. More pronounced changes in the level of apoptosis markers were detected in patients with ICMP, compared with patients with previous MI in both the subgroup of patients with with right heart rate and the subgroup of patients with AF with a constant form. All the examined patients in the subgroup of patients with AF have a constant form, the severity of changes in the level of studied markers of apoptosis is higher than in patients in the subgroup with right heart rate. The results of the correlation analysis indicate the presence of correlations between the level of markers of apoptosis AnxA5 and Bcl‑2 and the duration of AF of a constant form in the anamnesis in patients with past MI and ICMP.
The influence of wrist tapping based on the author’s methodology on the dynamics of interhemispheric integration and “internal” rhythm in healthy adults
Authors: Narodova E. A. , Shnayder N. A. , Erakhtin E. E. , Karnaukhov V. E. , Hassenkampf K. A. , Dmitrenko D. V.
Published: January 2020

The goal is to study the dynamics of the inter-hemispheric coherence coefficient of the cortex according to the main rhythms of the electroencephalogram before and after the BOS-therapy based on the wrist tapping on the author’s method and the effect of subclinical anxiety on the characteristics of wrist tapping in healthy adults.

Materials and methods. The conduct of this study was approved by the ethical committee of KrasSMU. prof. V. F. Voyno-Yasenetsky (protocol No. 77/2017 dated June 26, 2017).The study was conducted in two stages. The first stage is the study of standards and the influence of wrist tapping according to the author’s method on the characteristic of the “internal” rhythm in healthy adults without anxiety and with subclinical anxiety (n1 = 60). The second stage is the study of the influence of wrist tapping according to the author’s method on the coefficient of hemispheric coherence in the frontal areas of the cerebral cortex in healthy volunteers (n2 = 63). Study of wrist tapping was carried out using the original technique (RF patent № 2606489 from 10.01.2017). Anxiety level testing was performed using a scale (HADS hospital anxiety and depression scale [1]). Analysis of interhemispheric coherence in Fp1 — Fp2, F3 — F4, T3 — T4 pairs was performed using a computer encephalographic complex (Neurokartograf, MBN Moscow).

Results and discussions. The main characteristics of the “internal” rhythm according in healthy adults are statistically significant depending on the absence or presence of subclinical anxiety (1.13 Hz vs. 1.53 Hz, respectively). According to the author’s method, wrist tapping statistically significantly reduces the coefficient of interhemispheric coherence in Fp1-Fp2, F3-F4, C 3-C 4 pairs located above the convexital surface of the frontal cortex, which can be used as a method of non-pharmacological correction of anxiety disorders in the future.

Conclusion. Subclinical anxiety affects the indicators of the “internal rhythm”, which is studied using wrist taping according to the author’s method. Wrist tapping in healthy adults leads to a decrease in the interhemispheric integration of frontal cortex neurons and interhemispheric coherence coefficients in beta1- (predominantly) and alpha rhythms, without affecting the coefficients of coherence in theta rhythm. Wrist tapping according to the author’s method is a promising option for BOS-therapy in adults to reduce the level of anxiety in normal and pathological conditions.
Traumatic spinal cord injuries in Saint Petersburg: clinical and neurological features and mortality rate
Authors: Lobzin S. V. , Mirzaeva L. M. , Tcinzerling N. V. , Chistova I. V.
Published: January 2020

A retrospective cohort descriptive study based on archived patient's charts was performed to research the clinical and neurological features of patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries and analyze predictors of hospital mortality rate. We analyzed 311 cases of acute spinal cord injury for 2012–2016. The relationship of gender and age characteristics, and clinical/neurological features of spinal cord injuries is described. The mortality rate dependence on the level and severity of spinal cord injuries was revealed. Risk factors such as concomitant traumatic brain injury and alcohol consumption before injury were identified.
(Cover; Editorial Team; From the editor; Table of Contents)
Authors: From the editor; Table of Contents) (Cover; Editorial Team;
Published: January 2020

1. Cover2. Editorial Team3. From the editor4. Table of Contents
REKONSTRUKSI BAHAN AJAR BERBASIS STEM UNTUK MENINGKATKAN LITERASI SAINS DAN TEKONOLOGI SISWA PADA KONSEP KEMAGNETAN
Authors: Rusyati Rusyati , Permanasari Anna , Ardianto Didit
Published: January 2020

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memenuhi kebutuhan bahan ajar IPA  dengan tema  kontekstual agar siswa menguasai sejumlah keterampilan abad 21. Aktivitas utama dari penelitian ini adalah merekonstruksi struktur konten pengetahuan tentang teknologi, menjadi struktur konten untuk pembelajaran dengan memperhatikan kurikulum dan perkembangan siswa. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menghasilkan bahan ajar IPA berbasis STEM untuk meningkatkan Literasi sains dan teknologi pada konsep kemagnetan. Metode penelitian ini adalah penelitian pengembangan dengan model prosedural yang diadaptasi dari model of education reconstruction (MER). Bahan ajar yang dihasilkan divalidasi oleh ahli untuk mengumpulkan informasi berkaitan dengan keakuratan konten dan kelayakan bahan ajar. Penilaian bahan ajar meliputi aspek materi, penyajian, dan  Bahasa serta keterbacaan. Berdasarkan  poin penilaian tersebut, diperoleh CVR rata-rata  untuk bahan ajar berbasis STEM adalah 0,82, CVIh > CVIt (0.84 > 0.42). Nilai ini menandakan bahwa bahan ajar berbasis STEM yang dikembangkan layak digunakan. Rekonstruksi bahan ajar berbasis STEM dengan tema teknologi magnet dapat meningkatkan literasi sains dan teknologi ditunjukkan dengan rata rata hasil pretest sebesar 18,9%  dan rata rata hasil post test 52,5%, dan % N-gain 41,47 % termasuk katagori sedang.
Fractionation of Cellulose-Rich Products from an Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) by Means of Steam Explosion Followed by Organosolv Treatment
Authors: Lee Jae Hoon , Ahmed Muhammad Ajaz , Choi In-Gyu , Choi Joon Weon
Published: January 2020

In this study an empty fruit bunch (EFB) was subjected to a two-step pretreatment to defragment cellulose-rich fractions as well as lignin polymers from its cell walls. First pretreatment: acid-catalyzed steam explosion (ACSE) pretreatment of EFB was conducted under the temperature range of 180–220 °C and residence time of 5–20 min. The ACSE-treated EFB was further placed into the reactor containing 50% aq. ethanol and NaOH as a catalyst and heated at a temperature of 160 °C for 120 min for the second pretreatment: alkali-catalyzed organosolv treatment (ACO). The mass balance and properties of treated EFB were affected by the residence time. The lowest yield of a solid fraction was obtained when the residence time was kept at 15 min. Xylose drastically decreased, especially under the ACSE pretreatment. However, the crystallinity of cellulose increased by increasing the severity factor of the pretreatment and was 47.8% and 57% udner the most severe conditions. The organosolv lignin fractions also showed the presence of 14 major peaks via their pyrolysis-GC analysis. From here, it can be suggested that this kind of pretreatment can indeed be one potential option for lignocellulosic pretreatment.
Integration of Refined Composite Multiscale Cross-Sample Entropy and Backpropagation Neural Networks for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Lin Tzu-Kang , Chen Yu-Ching
Published: January 2020

This study developed a structural health monitoring (SHM) system based on refined composite multiscale cross-sample entropy (RCMCSE) and an artificial neural network for monitoring structures under ambient vibrations. RCMCSE was applied to enhance the reliability of entropy estimations. First, RCMCSE was implemented to extract damage features, and finite element analysis software was then used to generate training samples, which included stiffness reductions to achieve various damage patterns. A neural network model was constructed and trained using entropy values for these damage patterns. An experiment was conducted on a seven-story steel benchmark structure to validate the performance of the proposed system. Additionally, a confusion matrix was established to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. The results obtained for a scaled-down benchmark structure indicated that 89.8% of the floors were accurately classified, and 90% of the practical damaged floors were correctly diagnosed. The performance evaluation demonstrated that the proposed SHM system exhibited increased damage location accuracy.
Development of Dual-Scale Fluorescence Endoscopy for In Vivo Bacteria Imaging in an Orthotopic Mouse Colon Tumor Model
Authors: Yoo Su Woong , Nguyen Dinh-huy , Park Suhyeon , Lee Hyeri , Lee Chang-Moon , Lee Changho , Min Jung-Joon
Published: January 2020

Colorectal cancer is a representative cancer where early diagnosis and proper treatment monitoring are important. Recently, cancer treatment using bacteria has actively progressed and has been successfully monitored using fluorescence imaging techniques. However, because subcutaneous tumor models are limited in reflecting the actual colorectal cancer situation, new imaging approaches are needed to observe cancers growing in the colon. The fluorescence endoscopic approach is an optimal monitoring modality to evaluate the therapeutic response of bacteria in orthotopic colon cancer. In this study, we developed dual-scaled fluorescence endoscopy (DSFE) by combining wide-field fluorescence endoscopy (WFE) and confocal fluorescence endomicroscopy (CFEM) and demonstrated its usefulness for evaluating bacterial therapy. Firstly, the endoscopic probe of DSFE was developed by integrating the CFEM probe into the guide sheath of WFE. Secondly, colorectal cancer tumor growth and tumors infiltrating the fluorescent bacteria were successfully monitored at the multi-scale using DSFE. Finally, the bacterial distribution of the tumor and organs were imaged and quantitatively analyzed using CFEM. DSFE successfully exhibited fluorescent bacterial signals in an orthotopic mouse colon tumor model. Thus, it can be concluded that the DSFE system is a promising modality to monitor bacterial therapy in vivo.
Aqueous-Phase Brown Carbon Formation from Aromatic Precursors under Sunlight Conditions
Authors: Vidović Kristijan , Kroflič Ana , Šala Martin , Grgić Irena
Published: January 2020

At present, there are still numerous unresolved questions concerning the mechanisms of light-absorbing organic aerosol (brown carbon, BrC) formation in the atmosphere. Moreover, there is growing evidence that chemical processes in the atmospheric aqueous phase can be important. In this work, we investigate the aqueous-phase formation of BrC from 3-methylcatechol (3MC) under simulated sunlight conditions. The influence of different HNO2/NO2− concentrations on the kinetics of 3MC degradation and BrC formation was investigated. Under illumination, the degradation of 3MC is faster (k2nd(global) = 0.075 M−1·s−1) in comparison to its degradation in the dark under the same solution conditions (k2nd = 0.032 M−1·s−1). On the other hand, the yield of the main two products of the dark reaction (3-methyl-5-nitrocatechol, 3M5NC, and 3-methyl-4-nitrocatechol, 3M4NC) is low, suggesting different degradation pathways of 3MC in the sunlight. Besides the known primary reaction products with distinct absorption at 350 nm, second-generation products responsible for the absorption above 400 nm (e.g., hydroxy-3-methyl-5-nitrocatechol, 3M5NC-OH, and the oxidative cleavage products of 3M4NC) were also confirmed in the reaction mixture. The characteristic mass absorption coefficient (MAC) values were found to increase with the increase of NO2−/3MC concentration ratio (at the concentration ratio of 50, MAC is greater than 4 m2·g−1 at 350 nm) and decrease with the increasing wavelength, which is characteristic for BrC. Yet, in the dark, roughly 50% more BrC is produced at comparable solution conditions (in terms of MAC values). Our findings reveal that the aqueous-phase processing of 3MC in the presence of HNO2/NO2−, both under the sunlight and in the dark, may significantly contribute to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) light absorption.
Spring Season in Western Nepal Himalaya is not yet Warming: A 400-Year Temperature Reconstruction Based on Tree-Ring Widths of Himalayan Hemlock (Tsuga dumosa)
Authors: Aryal Sugam , Gaire Narayan Prasad , Pokhrel Nawa Raj , Rana Prabina , Sharma Basant , Kharal Deepak Kumar , Poudel Buddi Sagar , Dyola Nita , Fan Ze-Xin , Grießinger Jussi , Bräuning Achim
Published: January 2020

The Himalayan region has already witnessed profound climate changes detectable in the cryosphere and the hydrological cycle, already resulting in drastic socio-economic impacts. We developed a 619-yea-long tree-ring-width chronology from the central Nepal Himalaya, spanning the period 1399–2017 CE. However, due to low replication of the early part of the chronology, only the section after 1600 CE was used for climate reconstruction. Proxy climate relationships indicate that temperature conditions during spring (March–May) are the main forcing factor for tree growth of Tsuga dumosa at the study site. We developed a robust climate reconstruction model and reconstructed spring temperatures for the period 1600–2017 CE. Our reconstruction showed cooler conditions during 1658–1681 CE, 1705–1722 CE, 1753–1773 CE, 1796–1874 CE, 1900–1936 CE, and 1973 CE. Periods with comparably warmer conditions occurred in 1600–1625 CE, 1633–1657 CE, 1682–1704 CE, 1740–1752 CE, 1779–1795 CE, 1936–1945 CE, 1956–1972 CE, and at the beginning of the 21st century. Tropical volcanic eruptions showed only a sporadic impact on the reconstructed temperature. Also, no consistent temperature trend was evident since 1600 CE. Our temperature reconstruction showed positive teleconnections with March–May averaged gridded temperature data for far west Nepal and adjacent areas in Northwest India and on the Southwest Tibetan plateau. We found spectral periodicities of 2.75–4 and 40–65 years frequencies in our temperature reconstruction, indicating that past climate variability in central Nepal might have been influenced by large-scale climate modes, like the Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation, the North Atlantic Oscillation, and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation.
Spectral Analysis of Gravity Waves from Near Space High-Resolution Balloon Data in Northwest China
Authors: He Yang , Sheng Zheng , He Mingyuan
Published: January 2020

Using a set of near space high-resolution balloon data released in Hami, Xinjiang, we explored the spectral characteristics of temperature fluctuations and three-dimensional wind field fluctuations. As different from previous studies, which were based on radiosondes, we have increased the height range of spectral analysis to the stratosphere (38 km), which can explore the variation of spectral features with altitude, and can analyze higher wavenumber regions. The results show that horizontal wind field disturbances are isotropic, meridional and zonal winds have relatively consistent spectral structures, while vertical wind fluctuations have completely different spectral structures, which cannot be explained by the existing “universal spectrum” theory. The observed spectrum of horizontal wind field can be explained well by the “wind-shifting” theory. The ratio of spectral kinetic energy to potential energy is approximately constant only in the high wavenumber region but it varies at different height intervals. This study is a necessary extension of the observation for the characteristics of the vertical wavenumber spectrum in northwestern China, and it is also an experimental observation of spectral characteristics using radiosonde data at higher altitudes.
Surgery for Spine Disease and Intractable Pain
Authors: Boling Warren
Published: January 2020

Painful conditions, particularly due to head pain, spinal disease, and neuropathic pain, are highly prevalent in modern society, resulting in a significant impact on the individual due to the disability of the condition and the direct cost of associated treatments [...]
CINET: A Brain-Inspired Deep Learning Context-Integrating Neural Network Model for Resolving Ambiguous Stimuli
Authors: Amerineni Rajesh , Gupta Resh S. , Gupta Lalit
Published: January 2020

The brain uses contextual information to uniquely resolve the interpretation of ambiguous stimuli. This paper introduces a deep learning neural network classification model that emulates this ability by integrating weighted bidirectional context into the classification process. The model, referred to as the CINET, is implemented using a convolution neural network (CNN), which is shown to be ideal for combining target and context stimuli and for extracting coupled target-context features. The CINET parameters can be manipulated to simulate congruent and incongruent context environments and to manipulate target-context stimuli relationships. The formulation of the CINET is quite general; consequently, it is not restricted to stimuli in any particular sensory modality nor to the dimensionality of the stimuli. A broad range of experiments is designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the CINET in resolving ambiguous visual stimuli and in improving the classification of non-ambiguous visual stimuli in various contextual environments. The fact that the performance improves through the inclusion of context can be exploited to design robust brain-inspired machine learning algorithms. It is interesting to note that the CINET is a classification model that is inspired by a combination of brain’s ability to integrate contextual information and the CNN, which is inspired by the hierarchical processing of information in the visual cortex.
Procedural Requirements and Recommendations for Multiplex Immunofluorescence Tyramide Signal Amplification Assays to Support Translational Oncology Studies
Authors: Parra Edwin Roger , Jiang Mei , Solis Luisa , Mino Barbara , Laberiano Caddie , Hernandez Sharia , Gite Swati , Verma Anuj , Tetzlaff Michael , Haymaker Cara , Tamegnon Auriole , Rodriguez-Canales Jaime , Hoyd Clifford , Bernachez Chantale , Wistuba Ignacio
Published: January 2020

In the development of a multiplex immunofluorescence (IF) platform and the optimization and validation of new multiplex IF panels using a tyramide signal amplification system, several technical requirements are important for high-quality staining, analysis, and results. The aim of this review is to discuss the basic requirements for performing multiplex IF tyramide signal amplification (TSA) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded cancer tissues to support translational oncology research. Our laboratory has stained approximately 4000 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor samples using the multiplex IF TSA system for immune profiling of several labeled biomarkers in a single slide to elucidate cancer biology at a protein level and identify therapeutic targets and biomarkers. By analyzing several proteins in thousands of cells on a single slide, this technique provides a systems-level view of various processes in various tumor tissues. Although this technology shows high flexibility in cancer studies, it presents several challenges when applied to study different histology cancers. Our experience shows that adequate antibody validation, staining optimization, analysis strategies, and data generation are important steps for generating quality results. Tissue management, fixation procedures, storage, and cutting can also affect the results of the assay and must be standardized. Overall, this method is reliable for supporting translational research given a precise, step-by-step approach.
CD147 Promotes Cell Small Extracellular Vesicles Release during Colon Cancer Stem Cells Differentiation and Triggers Cellular Changes in Recipient Cells
Authors: Lucchetti Donatella , Colella Filomena , Perelli Luigi , Ricciardi-Tenore Claudio , Calapà Federica , Fiori Micol E. , Carbone Federica , De Maria Ruggero , Sgambato Alessandro
Published: January 2020

Cancer cells secrete small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) that are involved in the remodeling of tumor microenvironment (TME) and can promote tumor progression. The role of sEVs and their molecular key players in colon cancer stem cells differentiation are poorly understood. This study aimed to analyze the role and content of sEVs released during the differentiation of colorectal cancer stem cells. Here we show that sEVs secretion during colon cancer stem cells differentiation is partially controlled by CD147, a well-known player involved in colon cancer tumorigenesis. CD147 + sEVs activate a signaling cascade in recipient cells inducing molecular invasive features in colon cancer cells. CD147 knockdown as well as anti-CD147 antibodies impaired sEVs release and downstream effects on recipient cells and blocking multivesicular body maturation prevented sEVs release during the differentiation. Our findings reveal a functional role of CD147 in promoting sEVs release during the differentiation of colon cancer stem cells and in triggering cellular changes in recipient cells.
Optimization of Predictive Performance for the Therapeutic Response Using Iodine Scan-Corrected Serum Thyroglobulin in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Yoo Su Woong , Chowdhury Md. Sunny Anam , Jeon Subin , Kang Sae-Ryung , Cho Sang-Geon , Kim Jahae , Lee Changho , Ryu Young Jae , Song Ho-Chun , Bom Hee-Seung , Min Jung-Joon , Kwon Seong Young
Published: January 2020

We investigated whether the performance of serum thyroglobulin (Tg) for response prediction could be improved based on the iodine uptake pattern on the post-therapeutic I-131 whole body scan (RxWBS) and the degree of thyroid tissue damage with radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy. A total of 319 patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma who underwent total thyroidectomy and RAI therapy were included. Based on the presence/absence of focal uptake at the anterior midline of the neck above the thyroidectomy bed on RxWBS, patients were classified into positive and negative uptake groups. Serum Tg was measured immediately before (D0Tg) and 7 days after RAI therapy (D7Tg). Patients were further categorized into favorable and unfavorable Tg groups based on the prediction of excellent response (ER) using scan-corrected Tg developed through the stepwise combination of D0Tg with ratio Tg (D7Tg/D0Tg). We investigated whether the predictive performance for ER improved with the application of scan-corrected Tg compared to the single Tg cutoff. The combined approach using scan-corrected Tg showed better predictive performance for ER than the single cutoff of D0Tg alone (p < 0.001). Therefore, scan-corrected Tg can be a promising biomarker to predict the therapeutic responses after RAI therapy.
Comment on: Malfitano, A.M. et al. “Virotherapy as a Potential Therapeutic Approach for the Treatment of Aggressive Thyroid Cancer” Cancers 2019, 11, 1532
Authors: Alberts Pēteris
Published: January 2020

I read with interest the recent review on virotherapy in thyroid cancer by Malfitano et al [...]
Proteasome Inhibitors for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ito Shigeki
Published: January 2020

Use of proteasome inhibitors (PIs) has been the therapeutic backbone of myeloma treatment over the past decade. Many PIs are being developed and evaluated in the preclinical and clinical setting. The first-in-class PI, bortezomib, was approved by the US food and drug administration in 2003. Carfilzomib is a next-generation PI, which selectively and irreversibly inhibits proteasome enzymatic activities in a dose-dependent manner. Ixazomib was the first oral PI to be developed and has a robust efficacy and favorable safety profile in patients with multiple myeloma. These PIs, together with other agents, including alkylators, immunomodulatory drugs, and monoclonal antibodies, have been incorporated into several regimens. This review summarizes the biological effects and the results of clinical trials investigating PI-based combination regimens and novel investigational inhibitors and discusses the future perspective in the treatment of multiple myeloma.
Pre-Disease and Pre-Surgery BMI, Weight Loss and Sarcopenia Impact Survival of Resected Lung Cancer Independently of Tumor Stage
Authors: Icard Philippe , Schussler Olivier , Loi Mauro , Bobbio Antonio , Mansuet Lupo Audrey , Wislez Marie , Iannelli Antonio , Fournel Ludovic , Damotte Diane , Alifano Marco
Published: January 2020

Lower pre-surgery Body Mass Index (BMI) and low muscle mass impact negatively long-term survival of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We investigated their influence on survival after major lung resection for NSCLC. Methods: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database was made on 304 consecutive patients. Results: Underweight, normal, overweight and obese patients represented 7.6%, 51.6%, 28.6%, and 12.6% of the pre-disease population. Weight loss and gain were recorded in 44.4% and 5% of patients, respectively. Low muscle mass was more frequently associated with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (p < 0.000001). Overall survival was positively affected by pre-disease (p = 0.036) and pre-surgery (p = 0.017) BMI > 25 kg/m2, and, even more, in case of BMI > 25 kg/m2 and increasing weight (p = 0.012). Long-term outcome was negatively influenced by low muscle mass (p = 0.042) and weight loss (p = 0.0052) as well as age (p = 0.017), ASA categories (p = 0.025), extent of resection (p = 0.0001), pleural invasion (p = 0.0012) and higher pathologic stage (p < 0.0001). Three stepwise multivariable models confirmed the independent favorable prognostic value of higher pre-disease (RR 0.66[0.49–0.89], p = 0.006) and pre-surgery BMI (RR 0.72[0.54–0.98], p = 0.034), and the absence of low muscle mass (RR 0.56[0.37–0.87], p = 0.0091). Conclusions: Body reserves assessed by simple clinical markers impact survival of surgically treated NSCLC. Strategies improving body fat and muscular mass before surgery should be considered.
Diagnostic Agreement for High-Grade Urothelial Cell Carcinoma in Atypical Urine Cytology: A Nationwide Survey Reveals a Tendency for Overestimation in Specimens with an N/C Ratio Approaching 0.5
Authors: Wang Yeh-Han , Hang Jen-Fan , Wen Chien-Hui , Liao Kuan-Cho , Lee Wen-Ying , Lai Chiung-Ru
Published: January 2020

In the Paris System (TPS), standardized cytomorphological criteria and diagnostic categories were proposed for reporting urine cytology. To evaluate the diagnostic agreement and interobserver concordance for assessing TPS criteria, the Taiwan Society of Clinical Cytology organized an online survey with 10 atypical urine cytology cases. A total of 137 participants completed the survey. The mean agreement of diagnosis was 51.2%, ranging from 34.3% to 83.2% for each case. For 60% (6/10) of cases, the agreement was <50%. The interobserver concordance of diagnosis and cytological criteria assessment showed poor agreement. The nuclear-to-cytoplasmic (N/C) ratio had the highest kappa value of 0.386, indicating a significantly higher interobserver concordance and reproducibility than the other three TPS criteria. The correct rate of assessing the N/C ratio increased as the N/C ratio increased (correlation coefficient: 0.891, p < 0.01). Three cases with an N/C ratio near 0.5 were overestimated. Poor interobserver concordance of diagnosis and TPS criteria was revealed. Compared with other cytological features, the N/C ratio assessment was quantitative and more reproducible, but a tendency to overestimate cells was noted when the N/C ratio was approximately 0.5. Continuing education programs should emphasize the accurate assessment of N/C ratio to improve the application of TPS.
Animal Modeling of Pediatric Liver Cancer
Authors: Whitlock Richard S. , Yang Tianyou , Vasudevan Sanjeev A. , Woodfield Sarah E.
Published: January 2020

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common pediatric liver malignancy. Management of HB requires multidisciplinary efforts. The 5-year overall survival of this disease is about 80% in developed countries. Despite advances in the care of these patients, survival in recurrent or treatment-refractory disease is lower than 50%. This is due to more complex tumor biology, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-like mutations and expression of aggressive gene signatures leading to chemoresistance, vascular invasion, and metastatic spread. The current treatment protocols for pediatric liver cancer do not incorporate targeted therapies, and the ability to test these therapies is limited due to the inaccessibility of cell lines and mouse models. In this review, we discuss the current status of preclinical animal modeling in pediatric liver cancer, primarily HB. Although HB is a rare cancer, the research community has worked together to develop a range of interesting and relevant mouse models for diverse preclinical studies.
Cancer Stem Cell Marker DCLK1 Correlates with Tumorigenic Immune Infiltrates in the Colon and Gastric Adenocarcinoma Microenvironments
Authors: Wu Xiangyan , Qu Dongfeng , Weygant Nathaniel , Peng Jun , Houchen Courtney W.
Published: January 2020

Immunotherapy that has proven efficacy in several solid cancers plays a partial role in improving clinical outcomes of advanced gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. There is an unmet need to find new immune-related therapeutic targets. Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) marks tuft cells which are recognized as cancer-initiating cells and regulators of the type II immune response, and has been studied for its role in many cancers including colon and gastric cancers, but its role in tumor immunity remains unexplored. In the current study, we analyzed colon and gastric cancer RNA sequencing data from 283 and 415 patients, respectively, from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). High DCLK1 expression predicted the worse clinical outcomes in colon and gastric cancer patients and correlated with increased immune and stromal components. Further analysis indicated that DCLK1 was strongly linked to infiltration of multiple immune cell types, especially TAMs and Treg, and strongly correlated with increased CD8+ T cell inhibitors TGFB1 and CXCL12 and their receptors, suggesting it may contribute to TAM-mediated inhibition of CD8+ T cells. Interestingly, we found that DCLK1 was a prognostic biomarker in left-sided colon cancer, which has worse outcomes and demonstrates a reduced response to existing immunotherapies. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that DCLK1 is linked with functional regulation of the tumor microenvironment and may have potential as a prognostic biomarker and adjuvant target to promote immunotherapy sensitivity in colon and gastric cancer patients.
Differential Dependency of Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells on Targeting PTEN via PLK 1 Expression
Authors: Lee Jungwhoi , Lee Jungsul , Sim Woogwang , Kim Jae-Hoon
Published: January 2020

Even though the tumour suppressive role of PTEN is well-known, its prognostic implications are ambiguous. The objective of this study was to further explore the function of PTEN expression in human pancreatic cancer. The expression of PTEN has been dominant in various human cancers including pancreatic cancer when compared with their matched normal tissues. The pancreatic cancer cells have been divided into PTEN blockade-susceptible and PTEN blockade-impassible groups dependent on targeting PTEN by altering intracellular signaling. The expression of PTEN has led to varying clinical outcomes of pancreatic cancer based on GEO Series (GSE) data analysis and Liptak’s z analysis. Differential dependency to PTEN blockade has been ascertained based on the expression of polo-like kinase1 PLK1 in pancreatic cancer cells. The prognostic value of PTEN also depends on PLK1 expression in pancreatic cancer. Collectively, the present study provides a rationale for targeting PTEN as a promising therapeutic strategy dependent on PLK1 expressions using a companion biomarker discovery platform.
Autoimmune Complications in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in the Era of Targeted Drugs
Authors: Vitale Candida , Montalbano Maria Chiara , Salvetti Chiara , Boccellato Elia , Griggio Valentina , Boccadoro Mario , Coscia Marta
Published: January 2020

Autoimmune phenomena are frequently observed in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and are mainly attributable to underlying dysfunctions of the immune system. Autoimmune cytopenias (AIC) affect 4–7% of patients with CLL and mainly consist of autoimmune hemolytic anemia and immune thrombocytopenia. Although less common, non-hematological autoimmune manifestations have also been reported. Treatment of CLL associated AIC should be primarily directed against the autoimmune phenomenon, and CLL specific therapy should be reserved to refractory cases or patients with additional signs of disease progression. New targeted drugs (ibrutinib, idelalisib and venetoclax) recently entered the therapeutic armamentarium of CLL, showing excellent results in terms of efficacy and became an alternative option to standard chemo-immunotherapy for the management of CLL associated AIC. However, the possible role of these drugs in inducing or exacerbating autoimmune phenomena still needs to be elucidated. In this article, we review currently available data concerning autoimmune phenomena in patients with CLL, particularly focusing on patients treated with ibrutinib, idelalisib, or venetoclax, and we discuss the possible role of these agents in the management of AIC.