bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of informal digital learning of English and L2 motivational self system in foreign language enjoyment
Authors: Lee Ju Seong , Lee Kilryoung
Published: May 2020

This interdisciplinary research examines how Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE) and the L2 Motivational Self System (consisting of the ideal L2 self and the ought‐to L2 self) are linked with Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE). Together, these are flourishing research areas in computer‐assisted language learning, second language acquisition and positive psychology. Using a purposive sampling technique, three cohorts of English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language learners (N = 661) are surveyed in South Korea: middle school (n = 173), high school (n = 374) and university students (n = 114). Results of hierarchical regression analyses show that IDLE and the ideal L2 self are significantly predictive of all groups’ FLE, while the ought‐to L2 self predicts only middle school students’ FLE. These results suggest that students’ engagement in extramural digital activities and their motivational mindset (shaped through different socio‐educational contexts) may have influenced their emotions in learning their target language. Informed by these results, teachers can help increase students’ L2 learning enjoyment by supporting their language learning in out‐of‐class digital settings as well as promoting their ideal L2 self‐images. Concurrently, teachers and parents can enhance younger learners’ enjoyment of learning L2—especially in test‐oriented Asian contexts—by setting higher L2 learning expectations.
‘They’re discriminated against, but so are we’: White Australian‐born perceptions of ingroup and immigrant discrimination over time are not zero sum
Authors: Leviston Zoe , Dandy Justine , Jetten Jolanda
Published: May 2020

We examined whether zero‐sum thinking explains White Australian‐born people’s majority‐culture perceptions of discrimination towards their ingroup and an outgroup (immigrants), and the relationships among perceived discrimination and support for multiculturalism and immigration. Two correlational cross‐sectional studies were conducted among self‐identified White Australians (Study 1, N = 517), and White Americans (Study 2, N = 273), as well as an experiment among White Australians (Study 3, N = 121) in which we manipulated discrimination towards immigrants over time. Our findings did not support a zero‐sum account but revealed that perceptions of group discrimination were positively correlated: a case of ‘they’re discriminated against, but so are we’ rather than ‘if they gain, we lose’. Moreover, concerns about future discrimination of the ingroup were most predictive of opposition to multicultural policy and immigration. We argue our findings are more consistent with a competitive victimhood account of intergroup relations than a zero‐sum thinking account.
TNF‐α enhances TGF‐β‐induced endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition via TGF‐β signal augmentation
Authors: Yoshimatsu Yasuhiro , Wakabayashi Ikumi , Kimuro Shiori , Takahashi Naoya , Takahashi Kazuki , Kobayashi Miho , Maishi Nako , Podyma‐Inoue Katarzyna A. , Hida Kyoko , Miyazono Kohei , Watabe Tetsuro
Published: May 2020

The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of various components including cancer cells, tumor vessels, cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and inflammatory cells. These components interact with each other via various cytokines, which often induce tumor progression. Thus, a greater understanding of TME networks is crucial for the development of novel cancer therapies. Many cancer types express high levels of TGF‐β, which induces endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT), leading to formation of CAFs. Although we previously reported that CAFs derived from EndMT promoted tumor formation, the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions remain to be elucidated. Furthermore, tumor‐infiltrating inflammatory cells secrete various cytokines, including TNF‐α. However, the role of TNF‐α in TGF‐β‐induced EndMT has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study examined the effect of TNF‐α on TGF‐β‐induced EndMT in human endothelial cells (ECs). Various types of human ECs underwent EndMT in response to TGF‐β and TNF‐α, which was accompanied by increased and decreased expression of mesenchymal cell and EC markers, respectively. In addition, treatment of ECs with TGF‐β and TNF‐α exhibited sustained activation of Smad2/3 signals, which was presumably induced by elevated expression of TGF‐β type I receptor, TGF‐β2, activin A, and integrin αv, suggesting that TNF‐α enhanced TGF‐β‐induced EndMT by augmenting TGF‐β family signals. Furthermore, oral squamous cell carcinoma‐derived cells underwent epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in response to humoral factors produced by TGF‐β and TNF‐α‐cultured ECs. This EndMT‐driven EMT was blocked by inhibiting the action of TGF‐βs. Collectively, our findings suggest that TNF‐α enhances TGF‐β‐dependent EndMT, which contributes to tumor progression.
Clinical and radiological characterization of novel FIG4‐related combined system disease with neuropathy
Authors: Wright Georgia C. , Brown Richard , Grayton Hannah , Livingston John H. , Park Soo‐Mi , Parker Alasdair P.J. , Patel Anjla , Simonic Ingrid , Thomas Adam G. , Vadlamani Gayatri , Horvath Rita , Harijan Pooja D.
Published: May 2020

Variants in the FIG4 gene, which encodes a phosphatidylinositol‐3,5‐bisphosphatase lead to obstruction of endocytic trafficking, causing accumulation of enlarged vesicles in murine peripheral neurons and fibroblasts. Bi‐allelic pathogenic variants in FIG4 are associated with neurological disorders including Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type‐4J (CMT4J) and Yunis‐Varón syndrome (YVS). We present four probands from three unrelated families, all homozygous for a recurrent FIG4 missense variant c.506A>C p.(Tyr169Ser), with a novel phenotype involving features of both CMT4J and YVS. Three presented with infant‐onset dystonia and one with hypotonia. All have depressed lower limb reflexes and distal muscle weakness, two have nerve conduction studies (NCS) consistent with severe sensorimotor demyelinating peripheral neuropathy and one had NCS showing patchy intermediate/mildly reduced motor conduction velocities. All have cognitive impairment and three have swallowing difficulties. MRI showed cerebellar atrophy and bilateral T2 hyperintense medullary swellings in all patients. These children represent a novel clinicoradiological phenotype and suggest that phenotypes associated with FIG4 missense variants do not neatly fall into previously described diagnoses but can present with variable features. Analysis of this gene should be considered in patients with central and peripheral neurological signs and medullary radiological changes, providing earlier diagnosis and informing reproductive choices.
Genetic predisposition in type 2 diabetes: A promising approach toward a personalized management of diabetes
Authors: Sirdah Mahmoud M. , Reading N. Scott
Published: May 2020

Diabetes mellitus, also known simply as diabetes, has been described as a chronic and complex endocrine metabolic disorder that is a leading cause of death across the globe. It is considered a key public health problem worldwide and one of four important non‐communicable diseases prioritized for intervention through world health campaigns by various international foundations. Among its four categories, Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is the commonest form of diabetes accounting for over 90% of worldwide cases. Unlike monogenic inherited disorders that are passed on in a simple pattern, T2D is a multifactorial disease with a complex etiology, where a mixture of genetic and environmental factors are strong candidates for the development of the clinical condition and pathology. The genetic factors are believed to be key predisposing determinants in individual susceptibility to T2D. Therefore, identifying the predisposing genetic variants could be a crucial step in T2D management as it may ameliorate the clinical condition and preclude complications. Through an understanding the unique genetic and environmental factors that influence the development of this chronic disease individuals can benefit from personalized approaches to treatment. We searched the literature published in three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus and ISI Web of Science for the current status of T2D and its associated genetic risk variants and discus promising approaches toward a personalized management of this chronic, non‐communicable disorder.
Deep brain stimulation reduces pain in children with dystonia, including in dyskinetic cerebral palsy
Authors: Perides Sarah , Lin Jean‐Pierre , Lee Geraldine , Gimeno Hortensia , Lumsden Daniel E , Ashkan Keyoumars , Selway Richard , Kaminska Margaret
Published: May 2020

Aim

To establish the prevalence of dystonic pain in children and their response to deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Method

Dystonic pain was assessed in a cohort of 140 children, 71 males and 69 females, median age 11 years 11 months (range 3y–19y 1mo), undergoing DBS in our centre over a period of 10 years. The cohort was divided into aetiological dystonia groups: 1a, inherited; 1b, heredodegenerative; 2, acquired; and 3, idiopathic. Motor responses were measured with the Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS).

Results

Dystonic pain was identified in 63 (45%) patients, 38% of whom had a diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP). Dystonic pain improved in 90% of children and in all aetiological subgroups 1 year after DBS, while the BFMDRS motor score improved in 70%. Statistically significant improvement (p<0.01) was noted for the whole cohort on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (n=27), Paediatric Pain Profile (n=17), and Caregivers Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities questionnaire (n=48). There was reduction of pain severity, frequency, and analgesia requirement. Findings were similar for the whole cohort and aetiological subgroups other than the inherited heredodegenerative group where the improvement did not reach statistical significance.

Interpretation

Dystonic pain is frequent in children with dystonia, including those with CP, who undergo DBS; this can be an important, realizable goal of surgery irrespective of aetiology. We encourage the use of multimodal approach in pain research to reduce the risk of bias.
Three‐dimensional echocardiography assessment of carcinoid valvular heart disease: Images of each and all
Authors: Cai Qiangjun , Beckles Daniel L. , Ahmad Masood
Published: May 2020

A 54‐year‐old male was found to have neuroendocrine carcinoma with hepatic metastasis. Two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) demonstrated dilated right ventricle and right atrium, and severe tricuspid and pulmonary regurgitation. Three‐dimensional (3D) TTE en‐face views showed thickened, retracted, and fixed tricuspid valve and pulmonic valve which remained widely open throughout the cardiac cycle. 3D TTE, particularly en‐face views, demonstrates incremental value over 2D TTE by providing precise valvular anatomic details comparable to surgical findings. 3D TTE also offers a unique opportunity to assess all four valves simultaneously with en‐face views to delineate their relationships with surrounding structures.
Growth performance and feed conversion of Ruspolia differens on plant‐based by‐product diets
Authors: Sorjonen Jaana M. , Lehtovaara Vilma J. , Immonen Joni , Karhapää Maija , Valtonen Anu , Roininen Heikki
Published: May 2020

The use of food industry by‐products in insect feeds has gained increasing attention recently. However, the understanding of how well the economically valuable edible insect Ruspolia differens (Serville) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) can grow and develop with plant‐based by‐product feeds is currently lacking. It is important to determine the nutritional requirements, especially protein demand, of this species before developing artificial feeds for mass‐rearing. We reared R. differens with four control diets and 12 plant‐based by‐product diets in which the major protein source came from food industry by‐products, including potato‐protein, barley mash, barley feed, turnip rape, a mix of broad bean and pea, and a mix of potato, carrot, and apple. We asked whether the performance (development time, survival, and weight), feed conversion, and fatty acid composition and content differed among diet treatments. Furthermore, the 12 experimental by‐product diets were designed to reach six protein levels. We found that R. differens can be reared with various by‐product diets, but development time, survival, and weight differed among diets. Barley feed, barley mash, and potato protein diets seem to be good options for rearing, and potato glycoalkaloids do not affect the performance of R. differens. Individuals fed on the various by‐product diets also differed in their fatty acid composition and content. Increasing protein levels in diet up to 17% enhanced growth, development time, and survival, but no further enhancements were seen when fed diets with protein levels higher than this. The high protein levels decreased feed conversion rate. Our results can be valuable for designing feeds for insect mass‐rearing technology. The use of food industry by‐products in the diets for R. differens could increase the re‐use of local resources and enhance circular economy.
A fully defined artificial diet for Myzus persicae – the detailed technical manual
Authors: van Emden Helmut F. , Wild Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2020

We have been able to maintain a continuous culture of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on a fully defined artificial diet at Reading, UK, for over 30 years, without any return to plants. Following multiple requests from aphid researchers, here we provide the details of our culturing method. Detailed instructions are given for rearing M. persicae on the diet. An improved recipe is included as well as the construction and changing of diet sachets.
Exploring the homogeneity of terrestrial subterranean communities at a local spatial scale
Authors: Mammola Stefano , Chiappetta Nicolò , Giachino Pier Mauro , Antić Dragan Ž. , Zapparoli Marzio , Isaia Marco
Published: May 2020

1. Although caves are generally perceived as isolated habitats, at the local scale, they are often interconnected via a network of fissures in the bedrock. Accordingly, caves in close proximity are expected to host the same, or very similar, animal communities.

2. We explored the extent to which subterranean arthropod communities are homogenous at a local spatial scale of less than 1 km2, along with which cave‐specific environmental features result in a departure from the expected homogeneous pattern. We approached this question by studying richness and turnover in terrestrial invertebrate communities of 27 caves in a small karst massif in the Western Italian Alps.

3. Specialised subterranean species were homogeneously distributed among caves and were not influenced by seasonality. The only factor driving their distribution was the distance from the cave entrance, with deeper caves yielding a greater diversity of species.

4. Significant spatio‐temporal turnover in species not specialised to subterranean life was observed. In summer, there was a significant homogenisation of the community and a more even distribution of species among sites; in winter, these species were missing or found exclusively at greater depths, where environmental conditions were more stable. Furthermore, caves at lower elevations yielded, on average, a greater diversity and abundance of these species.

5. This study demonstrated that the theoretical expectation of no turnover in community composition in caves in close proximity is not always met. Turnover can be mostly attributed to seasonal patterns and sampling depth; thus, our findings have implications for planning sampling and monitoring activities in caves.
Preparation of saccade sequences and eye programming affect endogenous covert attention
Authors: Michalczyk Łukasz , Bielas Jacek , Schab Anna
Published: May 2020

Endogenous attention can be allocated in parallel to at least two saccade target locations of a planned sequence, but attentional resources are larger in the location of the first than the second saccade. The meridian effect that is observed in endogenous attention can be explained by eye programming, but it is not known how eye‐movement preparation and eye programming can together affect endogenous attention during sequential saccades. We used a double‐task paradigm to investigate this issue. In two experiments, we confirmed the relation between the preparation of sequential saccades and attentional selection and also showed that eye programming could eliminate deterioration of attentional resources in the second saccade location. The finding of the meridian effect in both the saccadic task and the target discrimination task additionally indicates the important role of eye programming in endogenous attention. The results were discussed in terms of the Premotor Theory of Attention.
Light‐dependent development of the tectorotundal projection in pigeons
Authors: Letzner Sara , Manns Martina , Güntürkün Onur
Published: May 2020

Left–right differences in the structural and functional organization of the brain are widespread in the animal kingdom and develop in close gene–environment interactions. The visual system of birds like chicks and pigeons exemplifies how sensory experience shapes lateralized visual processing. Owing to an asymmetrical posture of the embryo in the egg, the right eye/ left brain side is more strongly light‐stimulated what triggers asymmetrical differentiation processes leading to a left‐hemispheric dominance for visuomotor control. In pigeons (Columba livia), a critical neuroanatomical element is the asymmetrically organized tectofugal pathway. Here, more fibres cross from the right tectum to the left rotundus than vice versa. In the current study, we tested whether the emergence of this projection asymmetry depends on embryonic light stimulation by tracing tectorotundal neurons in pigeons with and without lateralized embryonic light experience. The quantitative tracing pattern confirmed higher bilateral innervation of the left rotundus in light‐exposed and thus, asymmetrically light‐stimulated pigeons. This was the same in light‐deprived pigeons. Here, however, also the right rotundus received an equally strong bilateral input. This suggests that embryonic light stimulation does not increase bilateral tectal innervation of the stronger stimulated left but rather decreases such an input pattern to the right brain side. Combined with a morphometric analysis, our data indicate that embryonic photic stimulation specifically affects differentiation of the contralateral cell population. Differential modification of ipsi‐ and contralateral tectorotundal connections could have important impact on the regulation of intra‐ and interhemispheric information transfer and ultimately on hemispheric dominance pattern during visual processing.
Management of rare movement disorders in Europe: outcome of surveys of the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases
Authors: Painous C. , van Os N. J. H. , Delamarre A. , Michailoviene I. , Marti M. J. , van de Warrenburg B. P. , Meissner W. G. , Utkus A. , Reinhard C. , Graessner H. , Tijssen M. A.
Published: May 2020

Background and purpose

The diagnosis of rare movement disorders is difficult and specific management programmes are not well defined. Thus, in order to capture and assess care needs, the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases has performed an explorative care need survey across all European Union (EU) countries.

Methods

This is a multicentre, cross‐sectional study. A survey about the management of different rare movement disorders (group 1, dystonia, paroxysmal dyskinesia and neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation; group 2, ataxias and hereditary spastic paraparesis; group 3, atypical parkinsonism; group 4, choreas) was sent to an expert in each group of disorders from each EU country.

Results

Some EU countries claimed for an increase of teaching courses. Genetic testing was not readily available in a significant number of countries. Regarding management, patients’ accessibility to tertiary hospitals, to experts and to multidisciplinary teams was unequal between countries and groups of diseases. The availability of therapeutic options, such as botulinum toxin or more invasive treatments like deep brain stimulation, was limited in some countries.

Conclusions

The management of these conditions in EU countries is unequal. The survey provides evidence that a European care‐focused network that is able to address the unmet rare neurological disease care needs and inequalities is highly warranted.
High‐frequency electrical stimulation of the anterior thalamic nuclei increases vigilance in epilepsy patients during relaxed and drowsy wakefulness
Authors: Bucurenciu Iancu , Staack Anke Maren , Gharabaghi Alireza , Steinhoff Bernhard J.
Published: May 2020

Objective

High‐frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) of anterior thalamic nuclei (ANT) reduces the frequency and intensity of focal and focal to bilateral tonic‐clonic epileptic seizures. We investigated the impact of high‐frequency ANT‐DBS on vigilance in epilepsy patients during relaxed and drowsy wakefulness, to better understand the effects and the mechanisms of action of this intervention in humans.

Methods

Four patients with different structural epileptic pathologies were included in this retrospective case‐cohort study. Short‐ and long‐term electroencephalography (EEG) was used to determine states of relaxed or drowsy wakefulness and the vigilance changes during stimulation‐on and stimulation‐off intervals.

Results

In relaxed, wakeful patients with eyes closed, the eyelid artifact rate increased acutely and reproducibly during stimulation‐on intervals, suggesting an enhanced vigilance. This effect was accompanied by a slight acceleration of the alpha rhythm. In drowsy patients with eyes closed, stimulation generated acutely and reproducibly alpha rhythms, similar to the paradoxical alpha activation during eyes opening. The occurrence of the alpha rhythms reflected an increase in the vigilance of the drowsy subjects during ANT‐DBS.

Significance

This is the first demonstration that ANT‐DBS increases the vigilance of wakeful epilepsy patients. Our results deliver circumstantial evidence that high‐frequency ANT‐DBS activates thalamocortical connections that promote wakefulness.
Electrocorticographic and neurochemical findings after local cortical valproate application in patients with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy
Authors: Altenmüller Dirk‐Matthias , Hebel Jonas M. , Deniz Cagan , Volz Silvanie , Zentner Josef , Feuerstein Thomas J. , Moser Andreas
Published: May 2020

Because oral pharmacological treatment of neocortical focal epilepsy is limited due to common systemic side effects and relatively low drug concentrations reached at the epileptic foci locally, application of antiepileptic agents directly onto the neocortical focus may enhance treatment tolerability and efficacy. We describe the effects of cortically applied sodium valproate (VPA) in two patients with pharmacoresistant neocortical focal epilepsy who were selected for epilepsy surgery after a circumscribed epileptic focus had been determined by invasive presurgical evaluation using subdural electrodes. Local VPA modified epileptic activity as electrocorticographically recorded from the chronic focus in both patients. In addition, VPA induced local increase of the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) in cortical tissue samples, whereas the excitatory glutamate was possibly decreased. In this clinical pilot study, we could show antiepileptic effects of cortically applied VPA in humans by electrocorticographic and neurochemical parameters.
Ultrasonography and surgical management of a perineal hernia in a donkey
Authors: Torad F. A. , Abu‐Seida A. M. , Shamaa A. A. , Hassan E. A. , Abdelgalil A. I.
Published: May 2020

This case report records a unilateral perineal hernia in a 7‐year‐old female donkey. The donkey had a history of unilateral swelling lateral to the left vulvar lip and difficulty in defaecation. Upon palpation, the swelling was painless, soft and reducible. Ultrasonography revealed a hyperechoic hernia sac containing dilated nonmotile bowel with homogenous hypoechoic contents. Primary herniorrhaphy was performed after repositioning of the herniated bowel. The donkey made an uneventful recovery with no recurrence or complications for 6 months of available follow‐up. In conclusion, perineal hernia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of perineal swellings in donkeys. Clinical examination, ultrasonography and surgical exploration are valuable for definite diagnosis of perineal hernia in donkeys. Surgical herniorrhaphy was successful in correcting the problem in this case.
Modelling the probability and impact of false‐positive serology for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato: A case study
Authors: Houben Rosa M. A. C. , Meersschaert Carole , Hendrickx Guy , Pitel Pierre‐Hugues , Amory Hélène
Published: May 2020

Background

Serological screening tests for Lyme borreliosis have poor specificity, with potential for misdiagnosis and unnecessary antimicrobial treatment.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of Lyme borreliosis seroprevalence and serologic test characteristics on the probability of obtaining a false‐positive result and impact on antimicrobial use.

Study design

Cross‐sectional serological survey and modelling.

Methods

Sera from 303 horses in southern Belgium were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Apparent seroprevalence was derived from serological data and a Bayesian estimate of true seroprevalence was computed. These were a starting point to model the impact of test and population characteristics on the probability of obtaining false‐positive results and consequently unnecessary treatments and complications.

Results

Apparent and true seroprevalence were 22% (95% CI 18%‐27%) and 11% (credible interval with 95% probability 0.6%‐21%) respectively. We estimate that two‐thirds of positive samples are false positive in southern Belgium, with one in five of tested horses potentially misdiagnosed as infected. Around 5% of antimicrobial use in equine veterinary practice in Belgium may be attributable to treatment of a false‐positive result.

Main limitations

There was uncertainty regarding the ELISA's sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of appreciating the poor diagnostic value of ELISA screening for Lyme borreliosis as demonstrated by this case study of seroprevalence in southern Belgium where we demonstrate that a nontrivial number of horses is estimated to receive unwarranted treatment due to poor appreciation of screening test characteristics by practitioners, contributing substantially to unnecessary use of antimicrobials.
Contrast therapy: Tissue heating and cooling properties within the equine distal limb
Authors: Haussler Kevin K. , Wilde Shana R. , Davis Michael S. , Hess Ann M. , McIlwraith C. Wayne
Published: May 2020

Background

Rehabilitation of tendon injuries in horses often involves cryotherapy to reduce inflammation and occasionally tissue heating to increase collagen extensibility. The application of alternating cold and hot (ie contrast therapy) is widely used in human physical therapy; however, its utility in equine rehabilitation is largely unknown.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to (a) assess if the equipment could achieve therapeutic tissue temperatures (<15 and >40°C) at different tissue depths relative to the digital flexor tendons and (b) evaluate the time‐temperature profiles during serial heating and cooling cycles using a contrast therapy device.

Study design

In vivo experiment.

Methods

In 4 adult horses with normal forelimb digital flexor tendons, fine‐wire temperature probes were placed superficially on the skin and implanted subcutaneously, deep to the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and deep to the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). Temperatures were recorded over three complete thermal (hot‐cold) cycles. Minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded and the rate of temperature changes and the areas underneath the time‐temperature curves (ie thermal load) were calculated.

Results

Minimum and maximum tissue temperatures (°C) included: superficial skin [12.6 ± 1.0; 42.4 ± 2.4], subcutaneous tissues [14.1 ± 0.8; 42.3 ± 2.2], deep to the SDFT [15.6 ± 0.8; 41.7 ± 2.6] and deep to DDFT [25.1 ± 2.0; 38.0 ± 3.5]. An initial rapid rate of tissue temperature change between 3.2 and 4.3°C/min occurred within tissues to the depth of the DDFT. Tissue thermal loads during heating ranged from 255 to 607°C*second and from 309 to 780°C*second during tissue cooling, with the lower values noted deep to the DDFT.

Main limitations

Unknown clinical efficacy in diseased tissues.

Conclusions

The applied contrast therapy was consistently able to induce cooling and heating of tissues to the depth of the DDFT.
Activation mechanism of plasmepsins, pepsin‐like aspartic proteases from Plasmodium, follows a unique trans‐activation pathway
Authors: Rathore Ishan , Mishra Vandana , Patel Chandan , Xiao Huogen , Gustchina Alla , Wlodawer Alexander , Yada Rickey Y. , Bhaumik Prasenjit
Published: May 2020

Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria produce plasmepsins (PMs), pepsin‐like aspartic proteases that are important antimalarial drug targets due to their role in host hemoglobin degradation. The enzymes are synthesized as inactive zymogens (pro‐PMs), and the mechanism of their conversion to the active, mature forms has not been clearly elucidated. Our structural investigations of vacuolar pro‐PMs with truncated prosegment (pro‐tPMs) reveal that the formation of the S‐shaped dimer is their innate property. Further structural studies, biochemical analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that disruption of the Tyr‐Asp loop (121p‐4), coordinated with the movement of the loop L1 (237–247) and helix H2 (101p–113p), is responsible for the extension of the pro‐mature region (harboring the cleavage site). Consequently, under acidic pH conditions, these structural changes result in the dissociation of the dimers to monomers and the protonation of the residues in the prosegment prompts its unfolding. Subsequently, we demonstrated that the active site of the monomeric pro‐tPMs with the unfolded prosegment is accessible for peptide substrate binding; in contrast, the active site is blocked in folded prosegment form of pro‐tPMs. Thus, we propose a novel mechanism of auto‐activation of vacuolar pro‐tPMs that under acidic conditions can form a catalytically competent active site. One monomer cleaves the prosegment of the other one through a trans‐activation process, resulting in formation of mature enzyme. As a result, once a mature enzyme is generated, it leads to the complete conversion of all the inactive pro‐tPMs to their mature form.

Database

Atomic coordinates and structure factors have been submitted in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) under the PDB IDs 6KUB, 6KUC, and 6KUD.
Killer whale abundance and predicted narwhal consumption in the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Lefort Kyle J. , Garroway Colin J. , Ferguson Steven H.
Published: May 2020

Range expansions and increases in the frequency of killer whale (Orcinus orca) sightings have been documented in the eastern Canadian Arctic, presumably the result of climate change‐related sea‐ice declines. However, the effects of increased predator occurrence on this marine ecosystem remain largely unknown. We explore the consequences of climate change‐related range expansions by a top predator by estimating killer whale abundance and their possible consumptive effects on narwhal (Monodon monoceros) in the Canadian Arctic. Individual killer whales can be identified using characteristics such as acquired scars and variation in the shape and size of their dorsal fins. Capture–mark–recapture analysis of 63 individually identifiable killer whales photographed between 2009 and 2018 suggests a population size of 163 ± 27. This number of killer whales could consume >1,000 narwhal during their seasonal residency in Arctic waters. The effects of such mortality at the ecosystem level are uncertain, but trophic cascades caused by top predators, including killer whales, have been documented elsewhere. These findings illustrate the magnitude of ecosystem‐level modifications that can occur with climate change‐related shifts in predator distributions.
Privilege and burden of im‐/mobility governance: On the reinforcement of inequalities during a pandemic lockdown
Authors: Dobusch Laura , Kreissl Katharina
Published: May 2020

In order to contain the COVID‐19 pandemic, nation states have focused on the governance of im‐/mobilities: certain mobility restrictions have been enforced, while simultaneously some forms of mobility have been maintained or even enhanced in order to keep the system running in crisis mode. With a special focus on Austria, we analyse the specific politics of im‐/mobilities concerning the organization of paid work and show how the socio‐spatial conditions of who is permitted, denied or urged to work are inextricably linked to inequalities. It becomes apparent that while in principle all bodies are equally dependent on collective social relations and enduring infrastructure, not everybody contributes equally to their maintenance. In fact, the governance of im‐/mobilities follows and reinforces already prevalent inequality regimes based on class, gender and migration relations, thereby differentiating between bodies perceived as highly valuable and worth protecting and those categorized as less valued and potentially disposable.
It’s OK not to be OK: Shared reflections from two PhD parents in a time of pandemic
Authors: Abdellatif Amal , Gatto Mark
Published: May 2020

Adopting an intersectional feminist lens, we explore our identities as single and co‐parents thrust into the new reality of the UK COVID‐19 lockdown. As two PhD students, we present shared reflections on our intersectional and divergent experiences of parenting and our attempts to protect our work and families during a pandemic. We reflect on the social constructions of ‘masculinities’ and ‘emphasized femininities’ as complicated influence on our roles as parents. Finally, we highlight the importance of time and self‐care as ways of managing our shared realities during this uncertain period. Through sharing reflections, we became closer friends in mutual appreciation and solidarity as we learned about each other’s struggles and vulnerabilities.
Liver injury is associated with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of retrospective studies
Authors: Parohan Mohammad , Yaghoubi Sajad , Seraji Asal
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak is a major threat to human beings. Lung injury has been reported as the major outcome of COVID‐19 infection. However, liver damage has also been considered to occur in severe cases. The current meta‐analysis of retrospective studies was carried out to summarize available findings on the association between liver injury and severity of COVID‐19 infection. Online databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched to detect relevant publications up to 1 April 2020, using relevant keywords. To pool data, a fixed‐ or random‐effects model was used depending on the heterogeneity between studies. Furthermore, publication bias test and sensitivity analysis were also applied. In total, 20 retrospective studies with 3428 COVID‐19 infected patients (severe cases, n = 1455; mild cases, n = 1973), were included in this meta‐analysis. Higher serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (weighted mean difference, 8.84 U/L; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.97 to 11.71; P < 0.001), alanine aminotransferase (weighted mean difference, 7.35 U/L; 95% CI, 4.77 to 9.93; P < 0.001), total bilirubin (weighted mean difference, 2.30 mmol/L; 95% CI, 1.24 to 3.36; P < 0.001), and lower serum levels of albumin (weighted mean difference, −4.24 g/L; 95% CI, −6.20 to −2.28; P < 0.001) were associated with a significant increase in the severity of COVID‐19 infection. The incidence of liver injury, as assessed by serum analysis (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and albumin levels), seems to be higher in patients with severe COVID‐19 infection.
Geochemistry of volcanic glass from Oligocene detrital sediments at DSDP Site 296, Kyushu Palau Ridge: Interpreting the magmatic evolution of the early northern Izu–Bonin–Mariana Island Arc
Authors: Samajpati Eshita , Hickey‐Vargas Rosemary
Published: May 2020

Understanding the petrologic and geochemical evolution of island arcs is important for interpreting the timing and impacts of subduction and processes leading to the formation of a continental crust. The Izu–Bonin–Mariana (IBM) Arc, western Pacific, is an outstanding location to study arc evolution. The IBM first arc (45–25 Ma) followed a period of forearc basalt and boninite formation associated with subduction initiation (52–45 Ma). In this study, we present new major and trace element data for the IBM first arc from detrital glass shards and clasts from DSDP Site 296, located on the northernmost Kyushu Palau Ridge (KPR). We synthesize these data with published literature for contemporaneous airfall ash and tephra from the Izu–Bonin forearc, dredge and piston core samples from the KPR, and plutonic rocks from the rifted eastern KPR escarpment, locations which lie within or correlate with KPR Segment 1 of Ishizuka, Taylor, Yuasa, and Ohara (2011). Our objective is to test ways in which petrologic and chemical data for diverse igneous materials can be used to construct a complete picture of this section of the Oligocene first arc and to draw conclusions about its evolution. Important findings reveal that widely varying primary magmas formed and differentiated at various depths at this location during this period. Changes in key trace element ratios such as La/Sm, Nb/Yb, and Ba/Th show that mantle sources varied in fertility and in the inputs of subducted sediment and fluids over time and space. Plutonic rocks appear to be related to early K‐poor dacitic liquids represented by glasses sampled both in the forearc and volcanic fronts. An interesting observation is that the variation in magma compositions in this relatively small segment encompasses that inferred for the IBM Arc as a whole, suggesting that sampling is a key factor in inferring temporal, across‐arc, and along‐strike geochemical trends.
Parental care in the Small Tree FinchCamarhynchus parvulusin relation to parasitism and environmental factors
Authors: Heyer Eileen , Cimadom Arno , Wappl Christian , Tebbich Sabine
Published: May 2020

The parental food compensation hypothesis suggests that parents may compensate for the negative effects of parasites on chicks by increased food provisioning. However, this ability differs widely among host species and may also depend on ecological factors such as adverse weather conditions and habitat quality. Although weed management can improve habitat quality, management measures can bring about a temporary decrease in food availability and thus may reduce parents’ ability to provide their nestlings with enough energy. In our study we investigated the interaction of parasitism and weed management, and the influence of climate on feeding rates in a Darwin’s tree finch species, which is negatively impacted by two invasive species. The larvae of the invasive parasitic flyPhilornis downsiingest the blood and body tissues of tree finch nestlings, and the invasive BlackberryRubus niveusaffects one of the main habitats of Darwin’s tree finches. We compared parental food provisioning of the Small Tree FinchCamarhynchus parvulusin parasitized and parasite‐free nests in three different areas, which differed in invasive weed management (no management, short‐term and long‐term management). In a parasite reduction experiment, we investigated whether the Small Tree Finch increases food provisioning rates to nestlings when parasitized and whether this ability depends on weed management conditions and precipitation. Our results provide no evidence that Small Tree Finches can compensate with additional food provisioning when parasitized withP. downsi. However, we found an increase in male effort in the short‐term management area, which might indicate that males compensate for lower food quality with increased provisioning effort. Furthermore, parental food provisioning was lower during rainfall, which provides an explanation for the negative influence of rain on breeding success found in earlier studies. Like other Darwin’s finches, the Small Tree Finch seems to lack the ability to compensate for the negative effects ofP. downsiparasitism, which is one explanation for why this invasive parasite has such a devastating effect on this host species.
Increasing temperatures increase the risk of reproductive failure in a near threatened alpine ground‐nesting bird, the Cape Rockjumper Chaetops frenatus
Authors: Oswald Krista N. , Diener Elizabeth F. , Diener John P. , Cunningham Susan J. , Smit Ben , Lee Alan T. K.
Published: May 2020

A major cause of reproductive failure in birds is nest predation. Predation risk depends on predator type, as predators vary in their ecology and sensory modalities (e.g. visual vs. olfactory). Snakes (generally olfactory predators) are a major nest predator for small birds, with predation strongly associated with higher temperatures. We investigated nest survival in a ground‐nesting alpine species, the Cape Rockjumper Chaetops frenatus, endemic to alpine fynbos in southwestern South Africa. We collected 3 years of nest data, testing whether nest survival was related to (1) habitat stage (early post‐fire vs. late post‐fire habitat, ≤ 3 and > 3 years since fire respectively), (2) nest concealment and (3) temperature. We found that nests had better survival at lower temperatures, with snake predation (our main source of predation) increasing in higher temperatures.
Stress in ion exchanged soda‐lime silicate and sodium aluminosilicate glasses: Experimental and theoretical comparison
Authors: Macrelli Guglielmo , Özben Nahide , Kayaalp Ahmet Caner , Çelikbilek Ersundu Miray , Sökmen İlkay
Published: May 2020

Glass samples of two different chemical compositions were strengthened by ion exchange. Residual stress profiles were experimentally determined by differential surface refractometry. The experimental results were compared with values theoretically predicted by a formalized viscoelastic mathematical model incorporating both stress buildup and stress relaxation contributions. The comparison exhibited a remarkable agreement both in terms of strengthening characteristics and stress profiles curves between experimentally measured and theoretically predicted values. The mathematical model incorporated terms directly linked to selected relaxation mechanisms either isochoric shear stress driven and fast relaxation. The comparison demonstrated the relevance of the stress relaxation mechanisms for the different glass chemical compositions. The approach presented in this study will allow the prediction of the mechanical behavior of chemically strengthened glass starting from its chemical composition together with the ion exchange process parameters.
A prospective study to assess the efficacy of various surgical modalities in treatment of stable vitiligo patches over resistant sites
Authors: Dalla Amit , Parsad Davinder , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Thakur Vishal , Sendhil Kumaran Muthu
Published: May 2020

Background

Despite advances in surgical management of vitiligo, lesions on acral areas and bony prominences remain treatment refractory. There is lack of literature on the treatment efficacy of various surgical modalities over these treatment refractory sites.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of three common methods of grafting in vitiligo in known resistant areas.

Methods

A single‐center interventional clinical trial involving 30 patients of stable vitiligo (disease stability ≥1 year) located over bony prominences and acral areas. All patients were treated with noncultured epidermal cell suspension (NCES), suction blister epidermal grafting (SBEG), and mini punch grafting (MPG) on three separate patches. Extent of repigmentation was assessed at 12 and 24 weeks, color matching and patient satisfaction were evaluated at 24 weeks.

Results

Among 30 participants, 22 (73%) were females, mean age was 27.4 (±10.7) years, and the majority (93.3%) had nonsegmental vitiligo. At 12 weeks, repigmentation >75% was noted in 56.6, 60, and 16.6% of patches treated by NCES, SBEG, and MPG, respectively. At 24 weeks, results remained the same in both the NCES and SBEG groups, while the number of patches with >75% repigmentation increased to 23.3% in the MPG group. The difference in repigmentation rate between NCES and MPG as well as between SBEG and MPG achieved statistical significance. Color matching of treated area and patient satisfaction were better in NCES and SBEG groups compared to MPG.

Conclusion

NCES and SBEG are superior to MPG with reasonably good efficacy and can be offered as a therapeutic modality for stable vitiligo patches over these sites.
Experimental and DFT insights into elastic, magnetic, electrical, and thermodynamic properties of MAB‐phase Fe2AlB2
Authors: Bai Yuelei , Qi Xinxin , He Xiaodong , Song Guangping , Zheng Yongting , Hao Bingbing , Yin Hang , Gao Jin , Ian Duff Andrew
Published: May 2020

The elastic, magnetic, electrical, and thermodynamic properties of bulk polycrystalline Fe2AlB2 are reported, with further theoretical insights provided through first‐principles calculations. DFT simulations, along with an appropriate empirical method to treat magnetic contributions, reproduce well the experimental heat capacity, phonon thermal conductivity, and thermal expansion. The shear, Young's and bulk moduli all decrease linearly from 107.7, 264.5, and 162.4 GPa at 298 K to 91.4, 227.7, and 149.6 GPa at 1273 K, respectively, while the Poisson's ratio shows a weak dependence on temperature, hovering around 0.23‐0.26. The mechanical damping, Q−1, is found to be a weak function of temperature up to 973 K, but above this temperature increases sharply, peaking at a specific temperature that becomes higher with increasing resonant frequency. The phonon contribution plays a dominant role in the measured heat capacity from 4.2 to 1000 K, while the magnetic contribution becomes significant around the Curie temperature (301 K). The electronic contribution increases with temperature above 100 K. Furthermore, the standard enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy are calculated as 16.60 kJ/mol, 92.92 J/(mol·K) and −11.09 kJ/mol, respectively. The thermal conductivity increases linearly with increasing temperature from RT to 1173 K, up to around 13.0 W/(m·K) at 1323 K after hovering at around 7.8 W/(m·K) in the low‐temperature range. The electrons play a dominant role in heat conduction, while the phonons contribute only a little to the thermal conductivity. The dilatometric coefficient of thermal expansion of Fe2AlB2 is measured as 13.5 × 10−6 K−1 in the temperature range RT‐1348 K.