bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the analysis and design of a fully compliant large stroke slider-crank (rocker) mechanism
Authors: Tanık Çağıl Merve , Tanık Engin , Yazıcıoğlu Yiğit , Parlaktaş Volkan
Published: February 2020

Abstract. In the literature, authors have made contributions in the area of partially
compliant slider-crank (rocker) mechanisms possessing rigid joints that may
cause backlash inherently. On contrary, fully compliant mechanisms offer no
backlash which is a valuable property for the cases where high precision is
required. In this paper, we proposed a fully compliant slider-crank
mechanism that performs large stroke. Kinematic performance of the mechanism
is investigated analytically. Dimensions of the mechanism are optimized to
obtain maximum translational output, while keeping deflections of flexible
hinges equal to each other and as small as possible. A design table
displaying stroke, axis drift of the output segment, and critical stresses
of compliant segments are presented. As an example, a compliant mechanism is
designed by using rigid body replacement technique. Then, via nonlinear
finite element analysis technique, analytical results are verified. Finally,
a prototype is built to compare output stroke and axis drift with analytical
approaches. The results of experiments verified that the theoretical
approaches are consistent.
Evaluating permafrost physics in the CMIP6 models and their sensitivity to climate change
Authors: Burke Eleanor J. , Zhang Yu , Krinner Gerhard
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Permafrost is an important component of the Arctic system and its future fate is likely to control changes in northern high latitude hydrology and biogeochemistry. Here we evaluate the permafrost dynamics in the global models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (present generation – CMIP6; previous generation – CMIP5) along with the the sensitivity of permafrost to climate change. Whilst the northern high latitude air temperatures are relatively well simulated by the climate models, they do introduce a bias into any subsequent model estimate of permafrost. Therefore evaluation metrics are defined in relation to the air temperature. This paper shows the climate, snow and permafrost physics of the CMIP6 multi-model ensemble is very similar to that of the CMIP5 multi-model ensemble. The main difference is that a small number of models have demonstrably better snow insulation in CMIP6 than in CMIP5 which improves their representation of the permafrost extent. The simulation of maximum summer thaw depth does not improve between CMIP5 and CMIP6. We suggest that models should include a better resolved and deeper soil profile as a first step towards addressing this. We use the annual mean thawed volume of the top 2 m of the soil defined from the model soil profiles for the permafrost region to quantify changes in permafrost dynamics. The CMIP6 models suggest this is projected to increase by 20–30 %/°C of global mean temperature increase. Under climate change and in equilibrium this may result in an additional 80–120 Gt C/°C of permafrost carbon becoming vulnerable to decomposition.
Using Drama Activities in Vocabulary Acquisition
Authors: Alshraideh Doniazad Sultan , Alahmdi Nesreen Saud
Published: February 2020

Many different pedagogical methodologies are applied in the field of English as a foreign language. One of the less-used strategies in Saudi Arabia is teaching and learning vocabulary through drama. This study represents an attempt to investigate the effectiveness of English drama activities for the vocabulary acquisition of second\foreign language learners and how English teachers can use drama in the L2 classroom. Five types of drama activities for learning vocabulary are used in this research: mime, storytelling, role play, simulation, and improvisation. This study was conducted on two preparatory-year classes. Each class was divided into six classes of 36 students. The students were homogenous in terms of gender and level of English language proficiency. The results show that drama helped the learners engage in learning new vocabulary in non-constructed learning environment, and facilitated vocabulary acquisition effectively and accurately in various contexts.
Fournier gangrene – a challenge for the surgeon
Authors: Kuchinka Jakub , Matykiewicz Jarosław , Wawrzycka Iwona , Kot Marta , Karcz Włodzimierz , Głuszek Stanisław
Published: February 2020

Introduction. Fournier gangrene (FG) is life - threatening condition, defined as the necrotizing fascitis of perineum and can spread to the adjacent areas. It is rare disease and infection is caused by mixed bacterial flora, seldom by fungal infection. Risk factors are: male sex, diabetes, hypertension, malignant neoplasms, alcoholism, immunospression. Material and methods. The analysis of four group patients treateted for Fournier gangrene was made about diagnostic and therapeutic process, assessment of prognosis based on Fournier’s Gangrene Severity Index). Results. All patients were males. Average age at the moment of diagnosis was 60 years. All of them had comorbidities resulting with the higher risk of susceptibility to FG. Morbitity was 50%, despite of all of patients had less than 9 points in FGSI. Discussion. The FG, despite of better diagnostic tools and technological progres remaines the significant clinical issue because of the mortality - 80%. „The golden standard” is surgical excision of necrotic tissues, antibiotics support, equation of fluid, electrolytes and base – acid balance, level of glycemia is very important. The treating results were assessed on the base of FGSI. The significance has the moment of performing the surgical intervention – it is proven, that should be carried out during 24 hours. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy is controversial. Seem to be appropriate if the infection is caused by anaerobic bacteria. Conclusions. Fournier syndrome is significant clinical issue. Its treatment requires early surgical approach with exicision of necrotic tissues, antibiotics support and treatment of hyperbaric oxygen in some cases.
AVALIAÇÃO DA IMPLANTAÇÃO DO LABORATÓRIO DE HABILIDADES E SIMULAÇÃO: PERCEPÇÕES E VIVÊNCIAS DE DOCENTES DA GRADUAÇÃO MÉDICA
Authors: Ximendes Gerson  da  Silva , Camargo Milena  Colonhese , Ferrari Flávia , Pires Andressa  Christhinie , Luna Ilana Sobral de , Costa Airan Lobo da , Souza Lilian Francisco Arantes de
Published: February 2020

The present study had as objective to recognize the perceptions and experiences of teachers, regarding learning in the laboratory of skills and medical simulation of a university of the interior of São Paulo. This is a descriptive and exploratory research of a qualitative nature. The population under study is made up of the professors of the medical course of a university. The collected data were evaluated and presented in table form and percentages according to the content found in the evaluation, description and interpretation of the teachers' answers. All the teachers considered necessary the laboratory of simulations for the academic formation of the student of medicine, the main difference in behavioral terms noticed in the students after the installation of the Laboratory was greater security. It concludes the importance of the Laboratory of Skills and Simulation for the medical course as an anticipatory and realistic activity of the situations that will be experienced in the routine of the profession.
Pseudoatrial Flutter: When the Problem Lies Outside the Heart
Authors: Ceruti Samuele , Spagnoletti Marco , Mauri Romano
Published: February 2020

Electrocardiogram (ECG) artifacts are a common problem in emergency medicine. Generally these artifacts are induced by movement disorders, which generate electrical interference with the ECG recording. If these disorders are not promptly recognized, consequences can lead to hospitalization and execution of unnecessary diagnostic tests, thereby increasing the costs and clinical risks such as nosocomial infections and thromboembolism. We present a pseudoatrial flutter generated by a Parkinson’s-like movement.
Break up the band: Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding-associated Discitis and Osteomyelitis
Authors: Meester Scott , Hogrefe Christopher
Published: February 2020

Obesity is an epidemic that adversely affects millions of Americans. In 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 93.3 million Americans suffer from obesity. Many individuals have undergone laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) procedures in order to lose weight. The procedure is thought to be safe with complication rates reported as low as 1.6% following surgery. We present a case of LAGB-associated discitis and osteomyelitis 20 years after placement and examine the current literature on the complication rates of bariatric surgery along with the rare injuries following LAGB placement.
A Hidden Complication of Pigtail Catheter Insertion
Authors: Garcia de Alencar Júlio , Costa Millena , Neto Rodrigo , Possolo de Souza Heraldo
Published: February 2020

Pigtail catheters have emerged as an effective and less morbid alternative to traditional chest tubes for evacuation of pleural air. Rare complications in the literature have been reported. We report a case of a 92-year-old male who presented with dyspnea and shock, noted to have a pneumothorax requiring tube thoracostomy. Computed tomography demonstrated pigtail within the lung parenchyma. We discuss the implications of this occurrence.
Endometriosis: An Unusual Cause of Bilateral Pneumothoraces
Authors: Sampson Christopher , White Kathleen
Published: February 2020

A 27-year-old female presented to the emergency department with sudden onset shortness of breath. A diagnosis of bilateral catamenial pneumothoraces was made following chest radiograph. Catamenial pneumothorax is a recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax that occurs in 90% of affected women 24-48 hours after the onset of their menstruation; 30-50% of cases have associated pelvic endometriosis. Symptoms can be as simple as chest pain or as severe as the presentation of this patient who was initially found to be in significant respiratory distress.
Point-of-care Ultrasound Diagnosis of Emphysematous Cholecystitis
Authors: Al Hammadi Fadwa , Buhumaid Rasha
Published: February 2020

A 49-year-old male presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and generalized weakness. The physical examination was positive for right upper quadrant tenderness and positive Murphy’s sign. Point-of-care biliary ultrasound revealed signs of emphysematous cholecystitis. Emphysematous cholecystitis is a rare biliary pathology with a high mortality rate. It differs from acute cholecystitis is many ways. It has unique ultrasound characteristics. This case highlights the use of point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose a rare biliary condition.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Effectively Treated with High-flow Nasal Cannula
Authors: Lee Patrick , Salhanick Steven
Published: February 2020

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is typically treated by administration of oxygen via non-rebreather mask (NRB). High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an alternative to NRB in a variety of disease states. We report a case of the novel use of HFNC in the treatment of acute CO poisoning. A 29-year-old man presented with a carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) level of 29.8%. He was treated with HFNC, and COHb levels declined to 5.4% in 230 minutes. Given several theoretical advantages of HFNC relative to NRB, HFNC is a potential option for use in the treatment of CO poisoning.
Disseminated Gonorrhea
Authors: Estrada Janelle , Sergent Shane , Ashurst John
Published: February 2020

Sexually transmitted infections have risen sharply over the last decade in the United States. The incidence of gonorrhea has risen to 172 reported cases per 100,000 people over the past year. This likely represents an under-representation due to many cases going unreported. Disseminated gonorrhea can present with nonspecific symptoms including arthralgia, cutaneous lesions, or tenosynovitis. Diagnosis is based upon a degree of high clinical suspicion and serology. Emergency department treatment includes ceftriaxone and azithromycin.
Games as education tools
Authors: Almondes Katie Moraes , Leonardo Maria Emanuela Matos
Published: February 2020

Objective The aim of this study was evaluated effects of an intervention with the serious game “Perfect Bedroom: learn to sleep well” on the sleep habits of healthy children.

Methods Two groups were composed, experimental (EG) (n=8) and control (CG) (n=5), with health children. This study presented four stages: pre-intervention, intervention, post-intervention and follow-up. Parents responded questionnaires about sociodemographic data and sleep habits measured by UNESP Sleep Habits and Hygiene Scale Child version (USHS). Children responded strategies developed by researchers: “Set up your bedroom” and “Mapping activities before bedtime”. The intervention was performed with “Perfect Bedroom” twice a week and for three weeks in a row. Inferential analysis was accomplished for comparisons between groups (Mann-Whitney test) and intragroups (Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Friedman test for repeated measures).

Results Preliminary results indicated non-significant differences on the sleep habits reported by parents. Children’s responses indicated a reduction in the number of electronic objects in bedroom and actions with these devices to EG.

Discussion As far as we know, this is the first study that used a serious game to promote healthy sleep habits in children. In addition, they are actively included in the change process. Preliminary findings contribute to indicate the potential of this approach as an effective tool to promote healthy sleep habits in children.
Sobre el tratamiento de los montañesismos en la primera edición del «Diccionario de uso del español» (1966-1967), de María Moliner
Authors: Peña Arce Jaime
Published: February 2020

En este artículo se determina qué léxico propio de Cantabria incluyó María Moliner en su Diccionario de uso y se compara con los ejemplos recogidos por el DRAE-1956, fuente principal del trabajo de la celebérrima lexicógrafa aragonesa. A partir de este corpus dialectal se estudia si el tratamiento dado a todos sus integrantes –en cuanto a su clasificación como voces usuales o no usuales– es coherente con los planteamientos esbozados por Moliner en los preliminares de su obra, según los cuales, todo el léxico provincial debía ser marcado como no usual. Las conclusiones de este trabajo determinan que este tratamiento, inexplicablemente, no fue monolítico, lo que genera dudas acerca de la coherencia del propio DUE.

In this papper, it is determined which of Cantabria's own lexicon María Moliner included in her Diccionario de uso, and then a comparison is made with the examples collected in the DRAE-1956, the main source of work created by the famous Aragonese lexicographer. This dialectal corpus is then examined to determine if the treatment given to all its constituent parts –in terms of its classification as usual or unusual words– is consistent with the approaches outlined by Moliner in the early part of her work, according to which, all of the provincial lexicon should be marked as unusual. The conclusions of this work determine that this treatment, inexplicably, was not monolithic, which raises doubts about the coherence of the DUE itself.
El humor como hecho pragmático en español
Authors: Ruiz Gurillo Leonor
Published: February 2020

En este artículo se analiza la habilidad metapragmática del humor en español. Considerando que se trata de un hecho pragmático (Ruiz Gurillo, 2006) como la metáfora o la ironía, se profundiza en las habilidades metapragmáticas que favorecen tanto su creación como su comprensión (Ruiz Gurillo, 2016). De este modo, el punto de vista del hablante/escritor ha de complementarse necesariamente con el del oyente/lector. Con el fin de ilustrar tales aspectos teóricos, se expondrán algunas de las habilidades metapragmáticas que pone en marcha tanto el cómico a la hora de producir monólogos humorísticos como el hablante de la conversación espontánea. El análisis de un género propiamente humorístico, el monólogo, de carácter planificado, público e interaccional se completa con el de un género no humorístico, la conversación espontánea, que es de carácter no planificado, privado y principalmente interactivo. Ello permite ilustrar algunos de los contextos en los que se usa y se infiere humor en español.

The main aim of this paper is to analyze the metapragmatic ability of humor in Spanish. Taking into account that it is a pragmatic phenomenon (Ruiz Gurillo, 2006), such as metaphor or irony, this research delves into the metapragmatic abilities that promote not only its creation but also its comprehension (Ruiz Gurillo, 2016). Therefore, the speaker/writer’s perspective may be complemented with the listener/reader’s point of view. In order to illustrate these theoretical aspects, we will analyze some of the metapragmatic abilities that both comedians in monologues and speakers in conversation carry out while using humor. Firstly, a humorous genre, i.e. the monologue, will be described as a planned, public and interactional discourse. Secondly, a non-humorous genre, i.e. the spontaneous conversation, will be presented as an unplanned, private and interactive discourse. In sum, this research illustrates some contexts in which humor is used and inferenced in Spanish.
Construcciones con minimizadores y verbos de estima o valoración y el ciclo de Jespersen
Authors: Cifuentes Honrubia José Luis
Published: February 2020

En este trabajo analizamos la combinatoria de minimizadores con los verbos de estima y valoración preciar, valer, darse e importar a lo largo de la historia del español a partir de los datos proporcionados por los corpus de la RAE. Estudiaremos la relación de tales construcciones con el denominado ciclo de Jespersen. Analizaremos también los minimizadores como ejemplo de subjetivación al producirse una pragmatización creciente del significado debido a la implicatura escalar que suponen los minimizadores. Daremos cuenta también de las principales características funcionales de los minimizadores en las construcciones consideradas.

This paper focuses on the diachronic evolution of constructions with minimizers and verbs of estimate and valuation, such as preciar, valer, darse and importer, from the data provided by the corpus of the RAE. These constructions are analyzed in relation to the so-called Jespersen cycle. More specifically, the minimizers are considered an example of subjectification, since there is an increasing pragmatization of the meaning due to the scalar implication that the minimizers suppose. The main functional characteristics of the minimizers in the constructions considered will also be taken into account.
Transgraniczna przestrzeń turystyczna obszarów morskich i nadmorskich na przykładzie Morza Bałtyckiego – próba wyjaśnienia pojęcia = Cross-border tourism space in maritime and seaside areasa s exemplified by the Baltic Sea Region – an attempt at explaining the concept
Authors: Cerić Denis
Published: February 2020

The article reports on work reviewing research into cross-border tourism space as this relates to sea areas. In essence, the review made it clear that the matter in question only appears in the literature rather rarely, even as its underpinning concepts involving tourism space, borders, cross-border cooperation and international integration have been the subject of many studies. The Baltic Sea is no longer an area of separation, having become – more than ever – a meeting point of numerous political, economic and ecological interests. Within its basin (including adjacent areas of land and waters), cross-border tourism space is developing mainly as connections are formed between already-existing tourism space within given states – primarily coastal cities or regions. Connections via the sea confer physical shape upon maritime tourism space, by way of a banded pattern. In turn, cooperation between entities located on two (or more) sides of the maritime border plays a significant role in delimiting the boundaries of cross-border tourism space associated with sea areas, while also serving in the integration process relating to that space, which is actually more extensive than just the interconnected cross-border sea and the coastal spaces, given that cooperating entities may be located even beyond. The author argues that space in which the authorities, institutions and residents of two or more neighbouring countries make contact with each other by way of tourism as conceived broadly can be designated cross-border tourism space. If it is countries separated by a maritime border that are connected, then it is possible to speak of a cross-border tourism space linked to marine areas. The physical flow of tourists by ship that characterises the space in question (as tourist flows occur) provides further strengthening of the idea that such space is capable of being designated. This research forms part of work on aspects of border management and the development of cross-border management (by which a common, cross-border space, in this case for tourism, is developed). The author also posits the existence of cognitive tourism in relation to coastal areas: in cities (urban systems in coastal districts, ports, historic parts of cities, spas), and along the natural shoreline (visits made to coast, shore, dunes and cliffs). The work is then brought to a close with suggestions for further research on the topic, as based on an integrated approach embracing attractiveness, infrastructure and tourism flows, accessibility, the analysis of strategic and planning documents related to the development of tourism, tourism management, territorial marketing, regional identity, the creation of regional tourist products, cross-border cooperation relating to the development of tourism and the relevant impact of cooperation of this kind.
Líneas de investigación futuras en diseño: movilidad urbana (II)
Authors: Foglia Efraín
Published: February 2020

Continuamos con la revisión de los fenómenos emergentes en la movilidad urbana. Como propusimos en el texto anterior, el escenario actual de las ciudades nos dibuja posibilidades de nuevas líneas de acción en cuanto a diseño se refiere. Una de dichas líneas es la relacionada con la fabricación digital como forma de manufactura DIY (Do It Yourself), entendido como el «hazlo tú mismo», una mentalidad muy propia de la práctica artesanal o de los movimientos hackers.
GDF -15 and Severity Scores in Sickle Cell Disease Patients Attending Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Okocha Chide , Manafa Patrick , Anowi Joy , Manafa Vera , Efobi Chilota
Published: February 2020

Aim: Granulocyte differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a growth factor and biomarker for many disorders where Ischaemia Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is pathophysiologically relevant. Hence the need to evaluate GDF-15 as a biomarker in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

Study Design: This is a cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Haematology, Nnamdi University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra state, Nigeria, between January and December 2018.

Methods: Ninety subjects were randomly recruited with haemoglobin (Hb) phenotypes SS (test), AS and AA (controls); numbering 30, 28 and 32 respectively. Disease severity was determined by calculating an objective score. 5 mls of blood was collected and used to determine Full Blood Count (FBC), haemoglobin Phenotype and GDF-15 levels (by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent assay).  Data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 20 (SPSS Inc., IL, Chicago, USA). P< 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results: GDF-15 level was found to be significantly different in the different HB phenotypes p= 0.005 and correlated negatively with sickle cell disease severity (r= -0.307, p= 0.098). The difference between median GDF-15 levels of HBSS subjects with mild and moderate disease was statistically significant at p= 0.01.

Conclusion: We hypothesize that GDF-15 may be a potential therapeutic target for intervention against ischaemia/reperfusion induced micro- vascular injury.  Natural GDF-15 mimetics may be useful in taking advantage of this potential therapeutic target.
Species Composition and Status of Stored Sorghum Pests in Traditional Farmer’s Storages of Kena District of Koso Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Gognsha Ararso , Hiruy Berhanu
Published: February 2020

Aim: To determine the species composition and status pests of stored sorghum under traditional storages of farmers in Kenna district of Konso Zone of Southern Ethiopia.

Study Design: From peasant association, about three sub-localities were randomly selected and from each sub-locality, three villages were selected at random with using a nested design.

Place and Duration of Study: Survey was conducted between 1, August to 27, December 2019 in four major sorghum growing peasant association of Kenna district of Southern Ethiopia.

Methodology: The study on determination of the species composition and status pests of stored sorghum was made from of half kilogram of wheat grain sample taken from 720 stores of randomly selected representative farmer’s storages of four peasant associations using key of books related to stored product insects.

Results: Fifteen arthropods species consisting of twelve primary and secondary pests and three natural enemies belonging to four insect orders with in nine families were recorded. Of which, nine species such as S. zeamais, S. oryzae, S. cerealella, T. castaneum, T. confusum, C. ferrugineus,    C. pusillus, R. dominica and P. interpunctella, respectively were found to be the most abundant as they appeared between 3.47 and 19.44 individuals per 100 g of sampled grains. They were also found to be the most frequently occurring as they occurred in the range between 63.89 and 94.44% per 100 g of sample grain collected from survey site and had major pest status.

Conclusion: The traditional methods and practices used by farmers were inefficient for providing adequate protection of their stored sorghum grain pests. Therefore, there is urgent need for designing effective management strategies against insect pest’s sorghum as well as improving the existing farmer’s traditional storage strictures in the survey site in order to reduce the loss of stored sorghum by insect pests and the associated food insecurity.
Assessment of Biofilm Formation among the Clinical Isolates of Escherichia coli in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Biswas Bedobroto , Shalini Ashok Naik , Nagarajan Deepesh , Iqubal Md Zaffar
Published: February 2020

Aims: Identification and grading of the Escherichia coli according to their biofilm production capability.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This was conducted in Department Microbiology at M.S. Ramaiah Medical college and Hospital, Bengaluru from March 2017 to August 2017.

Methodology: A total of 55 non repetitive Escherichia coli isolates were identified from various clinical samples like urine, pus ,tissue and peritoneal fluids .All the organisms were isolated in pure culture and biofilm formation was detected in vitro by Gold standard TCP (Tissue culture plate) method. Organisms were incubated for an extended period of 48 hours and the biofilms were detected by acetone alcohol elution method. Organisms were categorized as strong, moderate, weak and no biofilm producers based on the obtained OD value of the elute.

Results: Majority of the isolates of Escherichia coli were obtained from catheterized urine culture (67.03%) followed by pus (25.50%).Most of the isolates were capable of forming biofilm in vitro by tissue culture plate method except a few (9.1%). 40% of the isolates were strong biofilm formers which had >4 ODC. 25.5% showed medium biofilm-forming capability and rest 25.5% showed weak biofilm formations in vitro.

Conclusion: The ability to form biofilm from a species can give us a better understanding of the biofilm-related infections pertaining to the particular group. Detection of biofilms remains a most important determinant to approximate the incidence of such infections. Categorization of organisms according to their biofilm formation may help us understand the frequency of biofilm-associated infections, and thus take necessary precautions to avoid the problem. Further studies involving the detection of biofilm may be conducted and the tests can be implemented in routine diagnostic microbiology to assess the usefulness of the methods in detection of biofilm-related infections.
An Autonomous Soft Actuator with Light‐Driven Self‐Sustained Wavelike Oscillation for Phototactic Self‐Locomotion and Power Generation
Authors: Yang Lulu , Chang Longfei , Hu Ying , Huang Majing , Ji Qixiao , Lu Pin , Liu Jiaqin , Chen Wei , Wu Yucheng
Published: February 2020

Mimicking the intelligence of biological organisms in artificial systems to design smart actuators that act autonomously in response to constant environmental stimuli is crucial to the construction of intelligent biomimetic robots and devices, but remains a great challenge. Here, a light‐driven autonomous carbon‐nanotube‐based bimorph actuator is developed through an elaborate structural design. This curled droplet‐shaped actuator can be simply driven by constant white light irradiation, self‐propelled by a light‐mechanical negative feedback loop created by light‐driven actuation, time delay in the photothermal response along the actuator, and good elasticity from the curled structure, performing a continuously self‐oscillating motion in a wavelike fashion, which mimics the human sit‐up motion. Moreover, this autonomous self‐oscillating motion can be further tuned by controlling the intensity and direction of the incident light. The autonomous actuator with continuous wavelike oscillating motion shows immense potential in light‐driven biomimetic soft robots and optical‐energy‐harvesting devices. Furthermore, a self‐locomotive artificial snake with phototaxis is constructed, which autonomously and continuously crawls toward the light source in a wave‐propagating manner under constant light irradiation. This snake can be placed on a substrate made of triboelectric materials to realize continuous electric output when exposed to constant light illumination.
A Safe Organic Oxygen Battery Built with Li‐Based Liquid Anode and MOFs Separator
Authors: Deng Han , Chang Zhi , Qiu Feilong , Qiao Yu , Yang Huijun , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: February 2020

Safe rechargeable batteries of improved energy density and high power performance are urgently needed for the development of large electric devices. Herein, an Li‐based organic liquid anode is proposed, and an organic oxygen battery with a metal organic framework membrane separator is realized, which is able to conduct Li ions and separate other large species in the system. Equipped with the dual redox mediator strategy, the organic oxygen battery exhibits superior rate performance with long cycling life and low overpotential. A “solid electrolyte interface”‐like layer is observed between the organic liquid anode and the ion conducting separator. This work not only introduces a new type of anode for Li‐based batteries, but also provides fundamental insights for the better application of biphenyl‐based liquid anodes.
Visual Dysfunction of the Superior Colliculus in De Novo Parkinsonian Patients
Authors: Moro Elena , Bellot Emmanuelle , Meoni Sara , Pelissier Pierre , Hera Ruxandra , Dojat Michel , Coizet Veronique ,   on behalf of the Superior Colliculus Study Group
Published: February 2020

Objective

The dual hit hypothesis about the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease (PD) suggests that the brainstem is a convergent area for the propagation of pathological α‐synuclein from the periphery to the brain. Although brainstem structures are likely to be affected early in the course of the disease, detailed information regarding specific brainstem regions is lacking. The aim of our study was to investigate the function of the superior colliculus, a sensorimotor brainstem structure, in de novo PD patients compared to controls using brain functional magnetic imaging and visual stimulation paradigms.

Methods

De novo PD patients and controls were recruited. PD subjects were imaged before and after starting PD medications. A recently developed functional magnetic resonance imaging protocol was used to stimulate and visualize the superior colliculus and 2 other visual structures: the lateral geniculate nucleus and the primary visual cortex.

Results

In the 22 PD patients, there was no modulation of the superior colliculus responses to the luminance contrasts compared to controls. This implies a hypersensitivity to low luminance contrast and abnormal rapid blood oxygenation level–dependent signal saturation to high luminance contrasts. The lateral geniculate nucleus was only modulated by 3 to 9% luminance contrasts compared to controls. No major differences were found in the primary visual cortex between both groups.

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that pathological superior colliculus visual responses in de novo PD patients are present early in the course of the disease. Changes in imaging the superior colliculus could play an important role as a preclinical biomarker of the disease. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:533–546
Dysfunction of thioredoxin triggers inflammation through activation of autophagy in chicken cardiomyocytes
Authors: Yang Jie , Gong Yafan , Cai Jingzeng , Liu Qi , Zhang Yuan , Zheng Yingying , Yu Dahai , Zhang Ziwei
Published: February 2020

Thioredoxin (Txn) is a hydrogen carrier protein and exists widely in organism. Txn deficiency implicates cardiomyocytes injury has been proven. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. To understand the mechanistic response of cardiomyocytes subsequent to Txn suppression, we established the model of Txn dysfunction by employing gene interference technology (siRNA) and Txn inhibitor (PX‐12) in cardiomyocytes. We detected the ROS levels, inflammation factors, and key proteins in the autophagy and apoptosis. In addition, heat map was used for further analysis. Our results revealed that Txn dysfunction increased the release of ROS and induced activation of autophagy via upregulation of Becline‐1, LC3‐1, 2, which further regulated the inflammatory response, meanwhile, Txn silence inhibited apoptosis in chicken cardiomyocytes through Caspase‐3 inhibition. Altogether we concluded that Txn‐deficient chicken cardiomyocytes experienced autophagy, which caused severe inflammatory reactions and resulting in damage to cardiomyocytes.
Investigations on Selectivity of Gas‐Liquid Reactions in Capillaries
Authors: Grühn Julia , Burke Inga , Neuhaus Nadine , Kockmann Norbert
Published: February 2020

Biocatalysis offers a broad spectrum of possible ecological and economic advantages over conventional chemical catalysis processes, e.g., lower energy consumption and high enantio selectivity. The focus of this work is on gas‐liquid reactions. These are of great importance in the chemical and biochemical industry and subject of current research since they are often limited by mass transfer or show low selectivity. Different suitable biocatalytically gas‐liquid reaction systems were tested in capillary reactor designs in order to obtain information about the interaction between reaction and fluid mechanics. Furthermore, an optical measuring method was established. The experiments were performed in batch mode in a glass beaker with a flow cuvette for UV/Vis measurement of product concentration.
Primary Alcohol‐Activated Human and Mouse Hepatic Stellate Cells Share Similarities in Gene‐Expression Profiles
Authors: Liu Xiao , Rosenthal Sara Brin , Meshgin Nairika , Baglieri Jacopo , Musallam Sami G. , Diggle Karin , Lam Kevin , Wu Raymond , Pan Stephanie Q. , Chen Yibu , Dorko Ken , Presnell Sharon , Benner Chris , Hosseini Mojgan , Tsukamoto Hidekazu , Brenner David , Kisseleva Tatiana
Published: February 2020

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a leading cause of cirrhosis in the United States, which is characterized by extensive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins and formation of a fibrous scar. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major source of collagen type 1 producing myofibroblasts in ALD fibrosis. However, the mechanism of alcohol‐induced activation of human and mouse HSCs is not fully understood. We compared the gene‐expression profiles of primary cultured human HSCs (hHSCs) isolated from patients with ALD (n = 3) or without underlying liver disease (n = 4) using RNA‐sequencing analysis. Furthermore, the gene‐expression profile of ALD hHSCs was compared with that of alcohol‐activated mHSCs (isolated from intragastric alcohol‐fed mice) or CCl4‐activated mouse HSCs (mHSCs). Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that ALD hHSCs, in addition to alcohol‐activated and CCl4‐activated mHSCs, share the expression of common HSC activation (Col1a1 [collagen type I alpha 1 chain], Acta1 [actin alpha 1, skeletal muscle], PAI1 [plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1], TIMP1 [tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1], and LOXL2 [lysyl oxidase homolog 2]), indicating that a common mechanism underlies the activation of human and mouse HSCs. Furthermore, alcohol‐activated mHSCs most closely recapitulate the gene‐expression profile of ALD hHSCs. We identified the genes that are similarly and uniquely up‐regulated in primary cultured alcohol‐activated hHSCs and freshly isolated mHSCs, which include CSF1R (macrophage colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor), PLEK (pleckstrin), LAPTM5 (lysosmal‐associated transmembrane protein 5), CD74 (class I transactivator, the invariant chain), CD53, MMP9 (matrix metallopeptidase 9), CD14, CTSS (cathepsin S), TYROBP (TYRO protein tyrosine kinase‐binding protein), and ITGB2 (integrin beta‐2), and other genes (compared with CCl4‐activated mHSCs). Conclusion: We identified genes in alcohol‐activated mHSCs from intragastric alcohol‐fed mice that are largely consistent with the gene‐expression profile of primary cultured hHSCs from patients with ALD. These genes are unique to alcohol‐induced HSC activation in two species, and therefore may become targets or readout for antifibrotic therapy in experimental models of ALD.
Association between a low‐carbohydrate diet and sleep status, depression, anxiety, and stress score
Authors: Daneshzad Elnaz , Keshavarz Seyed‐Ali , Qorbani Mostafa , Larijani Bagher , Azadbakht Leila
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Dietary intakes, especially carbohydrates, play an important role in blood glucose control in patients with diabetes. It is suggested that carbohydrate amounts may be effective in diabetes complications. This study aimed to reveal the association of low‐carbohydrate diet (LCD) and sleep and mental status among patients with diabetes.

METHODS

This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 265 women with type 2 diabetes. Anthropometric measures, as well as biochemical tests, were recorded. Dietary intakes were recorded using a validated food‐frequency‐questionnaire to calculate LCD score. To assess mental disorders and sleep quality, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were used respectively.

RESULTS

Patients in the highest LCD quartile were the ones with the lowest carbohydrate consumption. There was no significant association between cardiovascular risk factors and LCD score even after controlling confounder variables (P > 0.05). Subjects in the highest quartile of LCD score compared with those within the lowest quartile had a 69% lower risk of poor sleep after adjusting confounders. The odds of depressive symptoms were negatively related to the highest quartile of LCD score in the crude model and even after full‐adjusted model (odds ratio: 0.42; 95% confidence interval: 0.17–1.01). Participants in the highest quartile of LCD score compared with those in the lowest quartile had a 73% lower risk of anxiety.

CONCLUSION

It seems that patients who consumed lower carbohydrate have better sleep status and are less involved with mental disorders. However, regarding the nature of the present study, well‐designed cohort studies are suggested to be conducted in the future. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Reduction principle for a certain class of kernel‐type operators
Authors: Peša Dalimil
Published: February 2020

The classical Hardy–Littlewood inequality asserts that the integral of a product of two functions is always majorized by that of their non‐increasing rearrangements. One of the pivotal applications of this result is the fact that the boundedness of an integral operator acting near zero is equivalent to the boundedness of the same operator restricted to the cone of positive non‐increasing functions. It is well known that an analogous inequality for integration away from zero is not true. We will show in this paper that, nevertheless, the equivalence of the two inequalities is still preserved for certain rather general class of kernel‐type operators under a mild restriction and regardless of the measure of the underlying integration domain.
Von der Brennstoffzelle zur Gibbs‐Helmholtz‐Gleichung
Authors: Wagner Tom
Published: February 2020

„Die neuen LED sparen unheimlich viel Energie.“ Durch Sätze wie diesen entsteht leicht der Eindruck, Energie könne erzeugt, gespeichert, verbraucht und eingespart werden oder verloren gehen. In Leistungskursen der Sekundarstufe II bietet es sich daher an, die Vorstellungen der Schüler anhand von elektrochemischen Experimenten zu überprüfen.
Phosphorylation Time‐Course Study of the Response during Adenovirus Type 2 Infection
Authors: Valdés Alberto , Zhao Hongxing , Pettersson Ulf , Lind Sara Bergström
Published: February 2020

PTMs such as phosphorylations are usually involved in signal transduction pathways. To investigate the temporal dynamics of phosphoproteome changes upon viral infection, a model system of IMR‐90 cells infected with human adenovirus type 2 (Ad2) is used in a time‐course quantitative analysis combining titanium dioxide (TiO2) particle enrichment and SILAC‐MS. Quantitative data from 1552 phosphorylated sites clustered the highly altered phosphorylated sites to the signaling by rho family GTPases, the actin cytoskeleton signaling, and the cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A signaling pathways. Their activation is especially pronounced at early time post‐infection. Changes of several phosphorylated sites involved in the glycolysis pathway, related to the activation of the Warburg effect, point at virus‐induced energy production. For Ad2 proteins, 32 novel phosphorylation sites are identified and as many as 52 phosphorylated sites on 17 different Ad2 proteins are quantified, most of them at late time post‐infection. Kinase predictions highlighted activation of PKA, CDK1/2, MAPK, and CKII. Overlaps of kinase motif sequences for viral and human proteins are observed, stressing the importance of phosphorylation during Ad2 infection.
Evaluation and minimization of nonspecific tryptic cleavages in proteomic sample preparation
Authors: Lin Zhilong , Ren Yan , Shi Zhaomei , Zhang Keren , Yang Huanming , Liu Siqi , Hao Piliang
Published: February 2020

Rationale

High specificity of trypsin is a prerequisite for accurate identification and quantification of proteins in shotgun proteomics. It is important to minimize nonspecific enzymatic cleavages during proteomic sample preparation.

Methods

In this study, protein extraction and trypsin digestion conditions were extensively evaluated using the less‐complex Escherichia coli lysates to improve the sensitivity of detecting low‐abundance nonspecific peptides by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Trypsin digestion buffers and digestion times were proved to have a significant effect on nonspecific cleavages. The triethylammonium bicarbonate buffer induces significantly lower nonspecific cleavages than the other two buffers, but a freshly prepared urea solution does not induce more than sodium dodecyl sulfate. Because prolonged trypsin digestion resulted in a considerable number of nonspecific cleavages, an optimized 2‐h protocol was developed with 45.2% less semispecific tryptic peptides but 18.5% more unmodified peptides identified than the commonly used 16‐h protocol.

Conclusions

The significant decrease in nonspecific cleavages and artificial modifications improves the accuracy of protein quantification and the identification of low‐abundance proteins, and it is especially useful for studying protein posttranslational modifications. For trypsin digestion, the proposed 2‐h protocol can potentially be a replacement for the traditional 16‐h protocol.
Metastable decomposition at the peptide C‐terminus: Possible use in protein identification
Authors: Wang Yang , Nakajima Etsuko , Okamura Yoshihito , Wang Danqing , Okumura Nobuaki , Takao Toshifumi
Published: February 2020

Rationale

The b
n−1 ion of a peptide, as well as a [b
n−1 + 18] ion, can be observed not only as normal product ions, but also as prominent metastable ions in a reflectron‐embedded matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight spectrometer. The m/z values for the peaks are slightly shifted compared with the ordinary product ions and appear as relatively broad peaks, which permits them to be discriminated from other ions.

Methods

A standard protein mixture and gel‐derived proteins digested with LysN protease, which cleaves peptide linkages in proteins at the N‐terminal side of Lys residues, were examined. The collected data were used for protein identification using in‐house software, iD‐plus (http://coco.protein.osaka-u.ac.jp/id-plus/), which was developed for searching for proteins in the peptide database, based on enzyme specificity (N‐terminal Lys in this study), peptide masses and C‐terminal amino acids.

Results

The b
n−1 as well as [b
n−1 + 18] ions were observed as broad ion peaks for all of the peptides (86 peptides) examined in this study. In silico calculations using the database of LysN digested peptides (11 969 470), created from 553 941 protein sequences (SwissProt: 2017_03), indicate that the use of no less than four peptides permits a protein to be identified without the need of any probability‐based scoring.

Conclusions

The preference for b
n−1 ion formation is probably due to the higher propensity of the C‐terminal peptide bond to be cleaved than other internal bonds. The fact that such C‐terminal fragmentation takes place for most of the peptides examined suggests that the use of an N‐terminal specific enzyme would allow the C‐terminal amino acids to be more reliably read out than other internal sequences, information that could be efficiently used for protein identification.
Take steps to address public safety challenges common among international students
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: February 2020

International students present unique challenges for campus public safety units. In a webinar for the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators, Ed Book, chief of police, behavioral intervention team chair, and emergency manager at Santa Fe College in Florida; and Angelica Suarez, international student services coordinator at Santa Fe, explained the strategies they use to support these students and meet their needs.