bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping class groups of highly connected $$(4k+2)$$-manifolds
Authors: Krannich Manuel
Published: November 2020

We compute the mapping class group of the manifolds$$\sharp ^g(S^{2k+1}\times S^{2k+1})$$♯g(S2k+1×S2k+1)for$$k>0$$k>0in terms of the automorphism group of the middle homology and the group of homotopy$$(4k+3)$$(4k+3)-spheres. We furthermore identify its Torelli subgroup, determine the abelianisations, and relate our results to the group of homotopy equivalences of these manifolds.
Antibacterial activity of Zn-loaded Cuban zeolite against Helicobacter pylori in comparison to its Na-loaded and unmodified counterparts
Authors: Cerri Guido , Farina Mauro , Brundu Antonio , Gavini Elisabetta , Salis Andrea , Dathe Wilfried
Published: November 2020

Helicobacter pylori can be found in the stomach of about half of the humans, and a large population can be associated with serious diseases. To survive in the stomach H. pylori increases the pH locally by producing ammonia which binds to H+ becoming ammonium. This work investigated the effects on the in-vitro growth of H. pylori of a natural cation-exchanger mainly composed (≈70%) of clinoptilolite and mordenite. The zeolitized material from Cuba was evaluated in its original form (M), as well as in its Na- (M-Na) and Zn-exchanged (M-Zn) counterparts. In the preliminary agar cup diffusion test, H. pylori revealed susceptibility only to M-Zn, with a direct relationship between concentration and width of inhibition halo. Further experiments evidenced that bacterium replication increases when ammonium is supplied to the growth medium and decreases when zeolites subtract NH4+ via ion exchange. Due to the multi-cationic population of its zeolites M was not effective enough in removing ammonium and, in the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) test, allowed bacterial growth even at a concentration of 50 mg/mL. Inhibition was achieved with M-Na because it contained sodium zeolites capable of maximizing NH4+ subtraction, although the MIC was high (30 mg/mL). M-Zn evidenced a more effective inhibitory capacity, with a MIC of 4 mg/mL. Zinc has antimicrobial properties and H. pylori growth was affected by Zn2+ released from clinoptilolite and mordenite. These zeolites, being more selective towards NH4+ than Zn2+, can also subtract ammonium to the bacterium, thus enhancing the efficacy of M-Zn.
Life Cycle Assessment and Judgement
Authors: Nathan Christopher , Coles Stuart
Published: November 2020

It has become a standard for researchers carrying out biotechnology projects to do a life cycle assessment (LCA). This is a process for assessing the environmental impact of a technology, product or policy. Doing so is no simple matter, and in the last decades, a rich set of methodologies has developed around LCA. However, the proper methods and meanings of the process remain contested. Preceding the development of the international standard that now governs LCA, there was a lively debate in the academic community about the inclusion of ‘values’ within the process. We revisit this debate and reconsider the way forward for LCA. We set out ways in which those outside of science can provide input into LCAs by informing the value assumptions at stake. At the same time, we will emphasize that the role of those within the scientific community need not (and sometimes, will inevitably not) involve value-free inquiry. We carry out this exploration through a case study of a particular technology project that sought ways to produce industrial and consumer products from algal oils.
Condition Assessment Techniques for Aged Fixed-Type Offshore Platforms Considering Decommissioning: a Historical Review
Authors: Wahab Mohamed Mubarak Abdul , Kurian V. John , Liew Mohd Shahir , Kim Do Kyun
Published: November 2020

In this study, the technical papers on structural condition assessment of aged fixed-type offshore platforms reported over the past few decades are presented. Other ancillary related works are also discussed. Large numbers of researches are available in the area of requalification for life extension of offshore jacket platforms. Many of these studies involve reassessment of existing platforms by means of conducting pushover analysis, a static nonlinear collapse analysis method to evaluate the structure nonlinear behaviour and capacity beyond the elastic limit. From here, the failure mechanism and inherent reserve strength/capacity of the overall truss structure are determined. This method of doing reassessment is described clearly in the industry-adopted codes and standards such the API, ISO, PTS and NORSOK codes. This may help understand the structural behaviour of aged fixed offshore jacket structures for maintenance or decommissioning.
Assessment of hormonal levels as prognostic markers and of their optimal cut-offs in small intestinal neuroendocrine tumours grade 2
Authors: Papantoniou Dimitrios , Grönberg Malin , Landerholm Kalle , Welin Staffan , Ziolkowska Barbara , Nordvall Dennis , Janson Eva Tiensuu
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Small intestinal neuroendocrine tumours (siNETs) with a Ki-67 proliferation index between 3 and 20% belong to WHO grade 2. Response to treatment may be monitored by blood chromogranin A (CgA) and urine 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the prognostic value of baseline CgA and 5HIAA and of the early biochemical response to treatment, and to compare different cut-off values used in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 184 patients with siNET Grade 2 treated with somatostatin analogues (SSA), interferon-alpha (IFN) or peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT).

Results

Baseline CgA was a statistically significant prognostic marker for both cancer-specific survival (CSS) and progression-free survival (PFS). A cut-off of 5 × ULN (upper limit of normal) was best discriminative in most cases, but 2 × ULN discriminated better for SSA. Baseline 5HIAA was a prognostic marker for CSS in treatment with IFN and PRRT, but not for single SSA. Early changes of CgA and 5HIAA correlated well with CSS (HR 3.18, 95% CI 1.82–5.56 and HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.16–1.86) and PFS (HR 3.08, 95% CI 1.86–5.10 and HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.11–1.68) for SSA, but not for PRRT.

Conclusions

Baseline CgA and to a lesser extent 5HIAA are associated with CSS irrespective of treatment used, and with PFS after PRRT, and 5 × ULN provides best discrimination in many, but not all, cases. Early reductions of CgA and 5HIAA are prognostic for treatment with SSA, but not PRRT.
Using the Technology Acceptance Model to conceptualise experiences of the usability and acceptability of a self-management app (COPD.Pal®) for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Knox Liam , Gemine Rachel , Rees Sarah , Bowen Sarah , Groom Phil , Taylor David , Bond Ian , Rosser William , Lewis Keir
Published: November 2020

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term progressive inflammatory lung disease causing chronic breathlessness and many hospital admissions. It affects up to 1.2 million people in the UK. To help people with COPD self-manage their condition we developed, in partnership with healthcare users, a digital mobile phone app called COPD.Pal®. We report the first user feedback of COPD.Pal®, applying the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) theoretical framework.

11 participants engaged with a click dummy version of COPD.Pal® before being asked questions relating to their experiences. A deductive, semantic, reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to analyse their individual and collective experiences. The study was registered at Clinical Trials.gov (NCT04142957).

Two overarching themes resulted: Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness. Within the former, participants discussed how they wanted flexibility and choice in how they engaged with the app; including how often they used it. Additionally, they discussed how the app layout should make it straightforward to use, whilst unanimously agreeing that COPD.Pal® provided this. Within Perceived Usefulness, participants discussed how they wanted the information they entered into the app to be useful, in addition to the app providing resources regarding COPD. Lastly, there was disagreement regarding preferences for further app development.

We found that COPD.Pal® was usable and acceptable by people with COPD and TAM provided a useful theoretical framework for both structuring discussions with users and analysing their comments.
Decision-making skills of high-performance youth soccer players
Authors: Murr Dennis , Larkin Paul , Höner Oliver
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a valid video-based diagnostic instrument that assesses decision-making with a sport-specific motor response.

Methods

A total of 86 German youth academy players (16.7 ± 0.9 years) viewed game situations projected on a large video screen and were required to make a decision by dribbling and passing to one of three targets (representing different decision options). The test included 48 clips separated into two categories: build-up (bu) and offensive decisions (off). Criterion-related validity was tested based on age (i.e., U16, U17, and U19), playing status (i.e., minutes played in official matches of the current season) and in a prospective approach relating to future youth national team status (i.e., selected or nonselected). Finally, it was investigated whether decision-making competence was influenced by playing position (i.e., defenders vs. midfielders vs. forwards).

Results

Instrumental reliability demonstrated satisfactory values for SCbu (r = 0.72), and lower for SCoff (r = 0.56). Results showed the diagnostic instrument is suitable for discriminating between playing status (SCbu: Φ = 0.22, p < 0.01; SCoff: Φ = 0.14, p < 0.05) and between younger (U16) and older players (U17 > U16 in SCbu: Φ = 0.24 and SCoff: Φ = 0.39, p < 0.01; U19 > U16 in SCbu: Φ = 0.41 and SCoff: Φ = 0.46, p < 0.01); however, there was no difference between U17 and U19 players. Furthermore, the predictive value of the test indicates that future youth national team players make better decisions with respect to the build-up category (SCbu: Φ = 0.20; p < 0.05), whereas playing position did not significantly influence decision-making competence.

Conclusion

Results indicate the video-based decision-making diagnostic instrument can discriminate decision-making competence within a high-performance youth group. The outcomes associated with national youth team participation demonstrate the predictive value of the diagnostic instrument. This study provides initial evidence to suggest a new video-based diagnostic instrument with a soccer-specific motor response can be used within a talent identification process to assist with assessment of decision-making performance.
Eine Mikroanalyse von Chemieunterricht – Einsatz und Perzeption von Triggern für situationales Interesse
Authors: Ochsen Sabrina , Bernholt Sascha , Bernholt Andrea , Parchmann Ilka
Published: November 2020

Die Gestaltung eines interessefördernden (Chemie‑)Unterrichts ist Anspruch von Unterricht und bildungswissenschaftlicher sowie fachdidaktischer Forschung. Gemäß des 4‑Phasen-Modells der Interessenentwicklung ist es sinnvoll, auf die Förderung des labileren situationalen Interesses zu fokussieren, da dies den Ausgangspunkt zur Entwicklung eines stabileren individuellen Interesses darstellen kann. Faktoren, sogenannte Trigger, die in verschiedensten Studien als potenziell interessefördernd identifiziert worden sind, sind vielfältig. Trotz einer langen Forschungstradition ist bis heute unklar, welche Auswirkungen der Einsatz von kombinierten Triggern im Unterricht auf das situationale Interesse hat und inwiefern Lernercharakteristika die Perzeption von Triggern beeinflusst. Daher wurde eine explorative Beobachtungsstudie im Chemieunterricht in neun gymnasialen Klassen der achten Jahrgangsstufe durchgeführt. Mittels einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse konnten unterschiedliche Trigger extrahiert und verschiedenen Unterrichtsphasen zugeordnet werden. Der Einsatz von Alltagskontexten wurde bspw. am häufigsten in Einstiegsphasen gefunden. Weiterhin wurde der Einfluss des mittleren situationalen Interesses der Lernenden auf die Wahrnehmung von Triggern untersucht: Experimente werden von niedriginteressierten Lernenden generell als interessant wahrgenommen, während die Wahrnehmung der Hochinteressierten differenzierter bezüglich u. a. der Einbettung in den Unterricht ist. Auf Basis der Ergebnisse werden erste Hypothesen zu möglichen Wirkmechanismen aufgestellt.
Development and Validation of an Implicit Relational Assessment Procedure (IRAP) to Measure Implicit Dysfunctional Beliefs about Caregiving in Dementia Family Caregivers
Authors: Cabrera Isabel , Márquez-González María , Kishita Naoko , Vara-García Carlos , Losada Andrés
Published: November 2020

Caregivers of people with dementia who endorse dysfunctional beliefs about caregiving are at high risk of experiencing higher levels of distress. These dysfunctional beliefs are presented in the form of rules, verbal statements that specify what responsibilities one should expect in order to be a “good caregiver,” and are characterized as rigid, unrealistic, or highly demanding. Previous studies relied exclusively on self-report measures when assessing such dysfunctional beliefs about caregiving. The objectives of this study were: 1) to develop and validate an Implicit Relational Assessment Procedure (IRAP) to measure implicit dysfunctional beliefs about caregiving (CARE-IRAP), and 2) considering the relatively high age of the sample, to analyze the adaptation of the IRAP for older adults, comparing the IRAP performance between older adult caregivers and middle-aged caregivers. Participants were 123 dementia family caregivers with a mean age of 62.24 ± 12.89. Adaptations were made to the IRAP by adjusting the accuracy and response time criteria. The sample was split into middle-aged caregivers (below 60 years) and older adult caregivers (60 or older). The CARE-IRAP scores presented significant positive correlations with explicit measures of dysfunctional beliefs about caregiving and experiential avoidance in caregiving. A similar pattern of results was observed across the two age groups. The results revealed that caregivers endorse implicit dysfunctional beliefs about caregiving and offer preliminary support for the use of the IRAP as a valid measure of implicit caregiving beliefs. This exploratory study is the first to adapt the IRAP criteria to older adults, and future studies should further explore criteria suitable for this population.
Rapid Ethnographies
Authors: Vindrola-Padros Cecilia
Published: November 2020

Rapid ethnographies are used in a wide range of fields to speed up research quickly and effectively. This book is the first practical guide to rapid ethnographies, helping readers to improve skills in the design, implementation, dissemination and use of findings generated through rapid ethnographic research. It gives advice and guidelines for carrying out rapid and rigorous research and provides details of tools used in the field. Vignettes reflecting on the author's research are included throughout, including observations on research carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic, to highlight how challenges of conducting rapid ethnographies can be overcome. Case studies across a range of subjects are also included, to demonstrate how rapid ethnographies can be applied in practice. With its useful tools and easy-to-read format, it will be used by teachers and students, as well as researchers wanting to successfully implement rapid ethnographies in their own work.
Wild Abandon
Authors: Menrisky Alexander
Published: November 2020

The American wilderness narrative, which divides nature from culture, has remained remarkably persistent despite the rise of ecological science, which emphasizes interconnection between these spheres. Wild Abandon considers how ecology's interaction with radical politics of authenticity in the twentieth century has kept that narrative alive in altered form. As ecology gained political momentum in the 1960s and 1970s, many environmentalists combined it with ideas borrowed from psychoanalysis and a variety of identity-based social movements. The result was an identity politics of ecology that framed ecology itself as an authentic identity position repressed by cultural forms, including social differences and even selfhood. Through readings of texts by Edward Abbey, Simon Ortiz, Toni Morrison, Margaret Atwood, and Jon Krakauer, among others, Alexander Menrisky argues that writers have both dramatized and critiqued this tendency, in the process undermining the concept of authenticity altogether and granting insight into alternative histories of identity and environment.
Free Will and the Rebel Angels in Medieval Philosophy
Authors: Hoffmann Tobias
Published: November 2020

In this book Tobias Hoffmann studies the medieval free will debate during its liveliest period, from the 1220s to the 1320s, and clarifies its background in Aristotle, Augustine, and earlier medieval thinkers. Among the wide range of authors he examines are not only well-known thinkers such as Thomas Aquinas, Duns Scotus, and William of Ockham, but also a number of authors who were just as important in their time and deserve to be rediscovered today. To shed further light on their theories of free will, Hoffmann also explores their competing philosophical explanations of the fall of the angels, that is, the hypothesis of an evil choice made by rational beings under optimal psychological conditions. As he shows, this test case imposed limits on tracing free choices to cognition. His book provides a comprehensive account of a debate that was central to medieval philosophy and continues to occupy philosophers today.
Voting behavior is unaffected by subtle linguistic cues: evidence from a psychologically authentic replication
Authors: GERBER ALAN S. , HUBER GREGORY A. , FANG ALBERT H.
Published: November 2020

Do small wording differences in message-based behavioral interventions have outsized effects on behavior? An influential initial study, examining this question in the domain of political behavior using two small-scale field experiments, argues that subtle linguistic cues in voter mobilization messages describing someone as a voter (noun) instead of one who votes (verb) dramatically increases turnout rates by activating a person's social identity as a voter. Two subsequent large-scale replication field experiments challenged this claim, finding no effect even in electorally competitive settings. However, these experiments may not have reproduced the psychological context needed to motivate behavioral change because they did not occur in highly competitive and highly salient electoral contexts. Addressing this major criticism, we conduct a large-scale, preregistered replication field experiment in the 2016 presidential election. We find no evidence that noun wording increases turnout compared to verb wording in this highly salient electoral context, even in competitive states.
Clostridioides difficile infection and antibiotic prescription rates in the community: Explaining the gender gap
Authors: Younas Mariam , Royer Julie , Weissman Sharon B. , Winders Hana R. , Dash Sangita , Bookstaver P. Brandon , Justo Julie Ann , Waites Katie S. , Bell Linda , Al-Hasan Majdi N.
Published: November 2020

In this cross-sectional population-based study, women had significantly higher crude incidence rates of both community-associated Clostridioides difficile infection (CA-CDI) and ambulatory antibiotic prescriptions compared to men in South Carolina in 2015. After adjustments for antibiotic prescription rates, there was no difference in the incidence rates of CA-CDI between the genders.
THE LEGITIMACY OF CAPITAL CONTROLS DURING A RETREAT FROM GLOBALISATION
Authors: Mercurio Bryan , Buckley Ross , Fu Erin Jiangyuan
Published: November 2020

Capital controls—measures taken to regulate the outflow or inflow of capital—are employed by governments to maintain financial stability and prevent or mitigate the effects of economic crises. For many decades capital controls were out of favour among economists and policymakers. Of late, however, they have become acceptable, if somewhat controversial, tools of financial policy, with the International Monetary Fund stating that ‘in certain circumstances, [capital controls] can be useful to support macroeconomic adjustment and safeguard financial stability’. Yet, little is known about the legality of capital controls under the various international treaties and rules of international organisations. This article introduces capital controls, traces their evolution over time, considers the success of short-term and long-term controls implemented in Chile, Malaysia, Iceland and China, and examines the consistency of selected controls with international rules and obligations. We suggest treaty language will be the critical factor in determining the legality of a particular capital control under a trade or investment agreement.
A miniaturized flexible frequency selective surface for dual band response
Authors: Kanchana Durai , Radha Sankararajan , Sreeja Balakrishnapillai Suseela , Manikandan Esakkimuthu
Published: November 2020

In this paper, a novel miniaturized and flexible dual band frequency selective surface (FSS) is presented. This FSS provides effective shielding in X-band and Ku- band, with a frequency response of 9.4 and 16.7 GHz, respectively. The proposed FSS provides 924 MHz bandwidth at X-band and 1.34 GHz bandwidth at Ku-band with an insertion loss of 20 dB. Moreover, the proposed design is polarization-independent and it provides stable frequency response at various angles of incidences for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes. More significantly, the proposed FSS analyzed the bandstop response of the selective frequency and also is suitable for conformal applications. A prototype of the proposed FSS is fabricated. The measured results and simulated results are good in agreement.
Study of a TGF Associated With an Elve Using Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Waves
Authors: Marchenko Volodymyr , Mlynarczyk Janusz , Ostrowski Michał , Kulak Andrzej , Senchenko Olesia , Kubisz Jerzy , Michalec Adam , Salvador Jacobo , Diaz Nahuel
Published: November 2020

A terrestrial gamma‐ray flash (TGF) associated with an Elve was recently reported by the Atmosphere‐Space Interactions Monitor (ASIM) (Neubert et al., 2020,https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aax3872). An extremely low frequency electromagnetic field pulse coinciding with this event was detected by two stations of our World Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Radiolocation Array (WERA) project from a distance of more than 10,000 km. The recorded signal allowed us to radiolocate the source, determine its polarity, and calculate the charge moment of the associated atmospheric discharge. Our analysis shows that this TGF was associated with a powerful discharge that had a positive polarity and the charge momentp ≈ 125 C·km.
Liquid biopsies and cancer omics
Authors: Amelio Ivano , Bertolo Riccardo , Bove Pierluigi , Buonomo Oreste Claudio , Candi Eleonora , Chiocchi Marcello , Cipriani Chiara , Di Daniele Nicola , Ganini Carlo , Juhl Hartmut , Mauriello Alessandro , Marani Carla , Marshall John , Montanaro Manuela , Palmieri Giampiero , Piacentini Mauro , Sica Giuseppe , Tesauro Manfredi , Rovella Valentina , Tisone Giuseppe , Shi Yufang , Wang Ying , Melino Gerry
Published: November 2020

The development of the sequencing technologies allowed the generation of huge amounts of molecular data from a single cancer specimen, allowing the clinical oncology to enter the era of the precision medicine. This massive amount of data is highlighting new details on cancer pathogenesis but still relies on tissue biopsies, which are unable to capture the dynamic nature of cancer through its evolution. This assumption led to the exploration of non-tissue sources of tumoral material opening the field of liquid biopsies. Blood, together with body fluids such as urines, or stool, from cancer patients, are analyzed applying the techniques used for the generation of omics data. With blood, this approach would allow to take into account tumor heterogeneity (since the circulating components such as CTCs, ctDNA, or ECVs derive from each cancer clone) in a time dependent manner, resulting in a somehow “real-time” understanding of cancer evolution. Liquid biopsies are beginning nowdays to be applied in many cancer contexts and are at the basis of many clinical trials in oncology.
The human impact on North American erosion, sediment transfer, and storage in a geologic context
Authors: Kemp David B. , Sadler Peter M. , Vanacker Veerle
Published: November 2020

Humans are primary agents of geomorphic change, and rates of anthropogenic landscape change likely far exceed the pace of change expected from natural geologic processes. Nevertheless, our understanding of the impact of humans on the natural landscape is limited by difficulties in accurately comparing past and present rates of change across wide spatial and temporal scales. Here, we present a compilation of  >4000 rates of alluvial sediment accumulation that provide an indirect record of North American erosion, mass transfer and sediment storage from the late Pleistocene to the present day. Continent-wide rates of alluvium accumulation were broadly stable for ~40,000 years, but increased 10-fold during the rapid expansion of agriculture and river system modification associated with European colonization. Interpreted in terms of mass transfer, humans have moved as much sediment in North America in the past century as natural processes can transfer in 700–3000 years.
Distinct prefrontal top-down circuits differentially modulate sensorimotor behavior
Authors: Huda Rafiq , Sipe Grayson O. , Breton-Provencher Vincent , Cruz K. Guadalupe , Pho Gerald N. , Adam Elie , Gunter Liadan M. , Sullins Austin , Wickersham Ian R. , Sur Mriganka
Published: November 2020

Sensorimotor behaviors require processing of behaviorally relevant sensory cues and the ability to select appropriate responses from a vast behavioral repertoire. Modulation by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to be key for both processes, but the precise role of specific circuits remains unclear. We examined the sensorimotor function of anatomically distinct outputs from a subdivision of the mouse PFC, the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Using a visually guided two-choice behavioral paradigm with multiple cue-response mappings, we dissociated the sensory and motor response components of sensorimotor control. Projection-specific two-photon calcium imaging and optogenetic manipulations show that ACC outputs to the superior colliculus, a key midbrain structure for response selection, principally coordinate specific motor responses. Importantly, ACC outputs exert control by reducing the innate response bias of the superior colliculus. In contrast, ACC outputs to the visual cortex facilitate sensory processing of visual cues. Our results ascribe motor and sensory roles to ACC projections to the superior colliculus and the visual cortex and demonstrate for the first time a circuit motif for PFC function wherein anatomically non-overlapping output pathways coordinate complementary but distinct aspects of visual sensorimotor behavior.
Direct RNA sequencing reveals m6A modifications on adenovirus RNA are necessary for efficient splicing
Authors: Price Alexander M. , Hayer Katharina E. , McIntyre Alexa B. R. , Gokhale Nandan S. , Abebe Jonathan S. , Della Fera Ashley N. , Mason Christopher E. , Horner Stacy M. , Wilson Angus C. , Depledge Daniel P. , Weitzman Matthew D.
Published: November 2020

Adenovirus is a nuclear replicating DNA virus reliant on host RNA processing machinery. Processing and metabolism of cellular RNAs can be regulated by METTL3, which catalyzes the addition of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) to mRNAs. While m6A-modified adenoviral RNAs have been previously detected, the location and function of this mark within the infectious cycle is unknown. Since the complex adenovirus transcriptome includes overlapping spliced units that would impede accurate m6A mapping using short-read sequencing, here we profile m6A within the adenovirus transcriptome using a combination of meRIP-seq and direct RNA long-read sequencing to yield both nucleotide and transcript-resolved m6A detection. Although both early and late viral transcripts contain m6A, depletion of m6A writer METTL3 specifically impacts viral late transcripts by reducing their splicing efficiency. These data showcase a new technique for m6A discovery within individual transcripts at nucleotide resolution, and highlight the role of m6A in regulating splicing of a viral pathogen.
Rapid de novo evolution of lysis genes in single-stranded RNA phages
Authors: Chamakura Karthik R. , Tran Jennifer S. , O’Leary Chandler , Lisciandro Hannah G. , Antillon Sophia F. , Garza Kameron D. , Tran Elizabeth , Min Lorna , Young Ry
Published: November 2020

Leviviruses are bacteriophages with small single-stranded RNA genomes consisting of 3-4 genes, one of which (sgl) encodes a protein that induces the host to undergo autolysis and liberate progeny virions. Recent meta-transcriptomic studies have uncovered thousands of leviviral genomes, but most of these lack an annotated sgl, mainly due to the small size, lack of sequence similarity, and embedded nature of these genes. Here, we identify sgl genes in 244 leviviral genomes and functionally characterize them in Escherichia coli. We show that leviviruses readily evolve sgl genes and sometimes have more than one per genome. Moreover, these genes share little to no similarity with each other or to previously known sgl genes, thus representing a rich source for potential protein antibiotics.
Spatial patterns of correlation between cortical amyloid and cortical thickness in a tertiary clinical population with memory deficit
Authors: Pillai Jagan A. , Larvie Mykol , Chen Jacqueline , Crawford Anna , Cummings Jeffery L. , Jones Stephen E.
Published: November 2020

To estimate regional Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology burden clinically, analysis methods that enable tracking brain amyloid or tau positron emission tomography (PET) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures are needed. We therefore developed a robust MRI analysis method to identify brain regions that correlate linearly with regional amyloid burden in congruent PET images. This method was designed to reduce data variance and improve the sensitivity of the detection of cortical thickness–amyloid correlation by using whole brain modeling, nonlinear image coregistration, and partial volume correction. Using this method, a cross-sectional analysis of 75 tertiary memory clinic AD patients was performed to test our hypothesis that regional amyloid burden and cortical thickness are inversely correlated in medial temporal neocortical regions. Medial temporal cortical thicknesses were not correlated with their regional amyloid burden, whereas cortical thicknesses in the lateral temporal, lateral parietal, and frontal regions were inversely correlated with amyloid burden. This study demonstrates the robustness of our technique combining whole brain modeling, nonlinear image coregistration, and partial volume correction to track the differential correlation between regional amyloid burden and cortical thinning in specific brain regions. This method could be used with amyloid and tau PET to assess corresponding cortical thickness changes.
Comprehensive corrective exercise program improves alignment, muscle activation and movement pattern of men with upper crossed syndrome: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Seidi Foad , Bayattork Mohammad , Minoonejad Hooman , Andersen Lars Louis , Page Phil
Published: November 2020

Upper crossed syndrome (UCS) refers to the altered muscle activations and movement patterns in scapulae along with some abnormal alignment in the upper quarter, which may contribute to the dysfunction of the cervicothoracic and glenohumeral joints. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a comprehensive corrective exercise program (CCEP) and subsequent detraining on alignment, muscle activation, and movement pattern in men with the UCS. This randomized controlled trial included 24 men. The intervention group conducted CCEP (8 weeks), followed by four weeks of detraining and the control group maintained normal daily activities. Electromyography of selected muscles, scapular dyskinesis test, head, shoulder, and thoracic spine angle were measured at baseline, post-test, and follow-up. There were significant differences for Group x time interaction and also for within-group from pre-test to post-test and follow-up in all outcomes. Also, significant differences were observed in three outcomes at post-test and follow-up between the CCEP and control group in favor of the CCEP. In Conclusion, the present study demonstrates that the CCEP for individuals with UCS is feasible and effective, improving muscle activation imbalance, movement patterns, and alignment. Importantly, these improvements were maintained after four weeks of detraining, suggesting lasting neuromuscular re-training adaptations.
Effect of different levels of hydrolysable tannin intake on the reproductive hormones and serum biochemical indices in healthy female rats
Authors: Manzoor Faiza , Nisa Mahr Un , Hussain Hafiz Amjad , Ahmad Nazir , Umbreen Huma
Published: November 2020

The present work aimed to find out the effect of different levels of hydrolysable tannin (HT) on serum hormonal profile, biochemical indices, lipid profile, apparent digestibility of nutrients and body weight gain in healthy female rats. Forty five adult healthy female rats of 8 weeks old were randomly divided into five equal groups. Different doses of HT 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% were administered daily to each rats group on the body weight basis for 6 weeks. The results had shown the reduction trend (p < 0.05) in the blood glucose, serum cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, testosterone, prolactin, ghrelin, total oxidative stress and serum iron levels; while an improvement (p < 0.05) was seen in serum follicle stimulating hormone, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, high density lipoprotein, IgM and total antioxidant capacity. However, no effect (p > 0.05) was noticed in serum IgG, protein, estrogen and calcium levels. A significant reduction (p < 0.05) was seen in the apparent nutrient digestibility and body weight gain. The results had shown improvement in the feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) but non-significant decrease (p > 0.05) in the feed intake. The findings showed that HT had healthy effects on the serum biochemical indices and reproductive hormonal profile but had a negative impact on the nutrient digestibility. Thus, the study concluded that HT could be used as an herbal medicine for the treatment of leading metabolic and infertility diseases like obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome in females.
Premature termination codons in SOD1 causing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis are predicted to escape the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay
Authors: Guissart Claire , Mouzat Kevin , Kantar Jovana , Louveau Baptiste , Vilquin Paul , Polge Anne , Raoul Cédric , Lumbroso Serge
Published: November 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common and severe adult-onset motoneuron disease and has currently no effective therapy. Approximately 20% of familial ALS cases are caused by dominantly-inherited mutations in the gene encoding Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1), which represents one of the most frequent genetic cause of ALS. Despite the overwhelming majority of ALS-causing missense mutations in SOD1, a minority of premature termination codons (PTCs) have been identified. mRNA harboring PTCs are known to be rapidly degraded by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), which limits the production of truncated proteins. The rules of NMD surveillance varying with PTC location in mRNA, we analyzed the localization of PTCs in SOD1 mRNA to evaluate whether or not those PTCs can be triggered to degradation by the NMD pathway. Our study shows that all pathogenic PTCs described in SOD1 so far can theoretically escape the NMD, resulting in the production of truncated protein. This finding supports the hypothesis that haploinsufficiency is not an underlying mechanism of SOD1 mutant-associated ALS and suggests that PTCs found in the regions that trigger NMD are not pathogenic. Such a consideration is particularly important since the availability of SOD1 antisense strategies, in view of variant treatment assignment.
An enzyme free fluorescence resonance transfer strategy based on hybrid chain reaction and triplex DNA for Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Tan Xiao-Hui , Li Yu-Bin , Liao Yan , Liu Hua-Zhong
Published: November 2020

In this work, an enzyme-free fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) strategy was established for rapid and specific detection of the DNA sequence from Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) using hybridization chain reaction (HCR) amplification and triplex DNA. The triplex forming oligonucleotide (TFO) was labelled with carboxyfluorescein (FAM) as fluorescence donor, and hairpin sequence H1 was labelled by tetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA) as fluorescence receptor. In the present target VP DNA, the hairpin structure of molecular beacon (MB) was opened, the free end was released and hybridized with H1-TAMRA, and the HCR reaction was triggered by the alternate supplementation of H1-TAMRA and H2 to produce the notch double helix analogue. After the addition of TFO-FAM, a triplex structure was formed between HCR products (H1-TAMRA/H2) and TFO-FAM. A close contact between the donor and the receptor resulted in FRET. Under the optimal conditions, the fluorescence quenching value was inversely proportional to the concentration of target VP DNA in the range of 0.1–50 nmol L−1, and the detection limit was 35 pmol L−1.
Predicting clinical resistance prevalence using sewage metagenomic data
Authors: Karkman Antti , Berglund Fanny , Flach Carl-Fredrik , Kristiansson Erik , Larsson D. G. Joakim
Published: November 2020

Antibiotic resistance surveillance through regional and up-to-date testing of clinical isolates is a foundation for implementing effective empirical treatment. Surveillance data also provides an overview of geographical and temporal changes that are invaluable for guiding interventions. Still, due to limited infrastructure and resources, clinical surveillance data is lacking in many parts of the world. Given that sewage is largely made up of human fecal bacteria from many people, sewage epidemiology could provide a cost-efficient strategy to partly fill the current gap in clinical surveillance of antibiotic resistance. Here we explored the potential of sewage metagenomic data to assess clinical antibiotic resistance prevalence using environmental and clinical surveillance data from across the world. The sewage resistome correlated to clinical surveillance data of invasive Escherichia coli isolates, but none of several tested approaches provided a sufficient resolution for clear discrimination between resistance towards different classes of antibiotics. However, in combination with socioeconomic data, the overall clinical resistance situation could be predicted with good precision. We conclude that analyses of bacterial genes in sewage could contribute to informing management of antibiotic resistance.
Microfluidic-enabled magnetic labelling of nanovesicles for bioanalytical applications
Authors: Hermann Cornelia A. , Mayer Michael , Griesche Christian , Beck Franziska , Baeumner Antje J.
Published: November 2020

Fluorescent liposomes are coupled inside a microfluidic device to magnetic particles to achieve potent multifunctional labels for high performance bioassays.
Synthesis of highly luminescent Mn-doped CsPbCl3 nanoplatelets for light-emitting diodes
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Dong Lvming , Zhou Cheng , Zhou Binze , Zheng Zhi , Chen Rong , Zang Jianfeng
Published: November 2020

An atmospheric approach is reported to synthesize Mn-doped CsPbCl3 nanoplatelets with high PLQYs, and their applications in soft polymers and LEDs.
Gate tunable self-powered few-layer black phosphorus broadband photodetector
Authors: Guo Xiaofei , Zhang Liwen , Chen Jun , Zheng Xiaohong , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2020

Due to the giant Stark effect in few-layer black phosphorus (BP), a self-powered and gate-controlled pure few-layer BP based photodetector device is proposed, which can cover the photodetection range from mid-infrared range (MIR) to far-infrared range (FIR).
Magnetic properties and quench dynamics of two interacting ultracold molecules in a trap
Authors: Dawid Anna , Tomza Michał
Published: November 2020

The interplay of external fields and internal structure of two interacting ultracold trapped molecules produces rich magnetization diagrams and nonequilibrium dynamics.
Chemical doping engineering by utilizing trilacunary Keggin polyoxometalates as a dopant for high performance perovskite solar cells
Authors: Fan Xiao , Zhang Jian , Yang Yulin , Xia Debin , Dong Yayu , Qiu Lele , Wang JiaQi , Cao Wei , Hu Boyuan , Wang Wei , Fan Ruiqing
Published: November 2020

Trilacunary Keggin type BiW9-Zn was first used as a cost-effective dopant for Spiro-OMeTAD and the PCE was enhanced to 19.56%.
Nonheme iron–thiolate complexes as structural models of sulfoxide synthase active sites
Authors: Ekanayake Danushka M. , Fischer Anne A. , Elwood Maya E. , Guzek Alexandra M. , Lindeman Sergey V. , Popescu Codrina V. , Fiedler Adam T.
Published: November 2020

Two nonheme iron–thiolate complexes that mimic that active-site structures of sulfoxide synthases have been prepared and characterized using crystallographic, spectroscopic, and computational methods.
Boronate-appended polymers with diol-functionalized ferrocene: an effective and selective method for voltammetric glucose sensing
Authors: Sęk Jakub P. , Kaczmarczyk Sabina , Guńka Katarzyna , Kowalczyk Agata , Borys Krzysztof M. , Kasprzak Artur , Nowicka Anna M.
Published: November 2020

New methodology for the detection of glucose, employing the interactions between ferrocene diol and boronate-appended polymers, is reported.
The Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde of lithium sulfur batteries
Authors: Bonnick Patrick , Muldoon John
Published: November 2020

Although the concept of a lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery promises an energy density surpassing that of conventional Li-ion cells, prototype cells have lagged far behind.
Machine learning for high performance organic solar cells: current scenario and future prospects
Authors: Mahmood Asif , Wang Jin-Liang
Published: November 2020

In this review, current research status about the machine learning use in organic solar cell research is reviewed. We have discussed the challenges in anticipating the data driven material design.
The apple dihydrochalcone phloretin suppresses growth and improves chemosensitivity of breast cancer cells via inhibition of cytoprotective autophagy
Authors: Chen Ming , Gowd Vemana , Wang Mingfu , Chen Feng , Cheng Ka-Wing
Published: November 2020

Schematic representation of the effect of phloretin-induced inhibition of cytoprotective autophagy in breast cancer cells under glucose starvation stress.
Synergistic cooperative effect of CF3SO2Na and bis(2-butoxyethyl)ether towards selective oxygenation of sulfides with molecular oxygen under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Liu Kai-Jian , Wang Zheng , Lu Ling-Hui , Chen Jin-Yang , Zeng Fei , Lin Ying-Wu , Cao Zhong , Yu Xianyong , He Wei-Min
Published: November 2020

A practical method for the switchable synthesis of sulfoxides and sulfones through visible-light-initiated CF3SO2Na/2-butoxyethyl ether synergistic catalyzed oxygenation of sulfides was developed.
Waste-minimized synthesis of C2 functionalized quinolines exploiting iron-catalysed C–H activation
Authors: Ferlin Francesco , Zangarelli Agnese , Lilli Simone , Santoro Stefano , Vaccaro Luigi
Published: November 2020

Herein we present an efficient and regioselective iron-catalyzed methodology for the external oxidant-free C–H activation of quinoline N-oxide.
A high performance fully bio-based epoxy thermoset from a syringaldehyde-derived epoxy monomer cured by furan-derived amine
Authors: Nabipour Hafezeh , Wang Xin , Song Lei , Hu Yuan
Published: November 2020

Owing to the outstanding mechanical strength and modulus, high Tg, anti-flammability and anti-bacterial property, this fully bio-based epoxy thermoset is a promising substitute for DGEBA-based thermoset in high performance fire safe applications.
A correlative method to quantitatively image trace concentrations of elements by combined SIMS-EDX analysis
Authors: Yedra Lluís , Shyam Kumar C. N. , Pshenova Alisa , Lentzen Esther , Philipp Patrick , Wirtz Tom , Eswara Santhana
Published: November 2020

The study demonstrates a new method to quantify Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) images by using a synergetic combination of Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and SIMS.
Expansion of diazepine heterocyclic chemical spaceviasequential Knoevenagel condensation-intramolecular aza-Wittig reaction: 2-acyl-4-aryl-5H-pyrrolo[1,2-d][1,4]diazepines
Authors: Dagar Anuradha , Kim Ikyon
Published: November 2020

Strategic combination of Knoevenagel condensation and intramolecular aza-Wittig reaction enabled facile access to pyrrole-fused 1,4-diazepines in excellent yields under mild conditions.
Recent developments in the synthesis of azaindoles from pyridine and pyrrole building blocks
Authors: Motati Damoder Reddy , Amaradhi Radhika , Ganesh Thota
Published: November 2020

The azaindole framework is ubiquitous in bioactive natural products and pharmaceuticals. This review highlights the synthetic approaches to azaindoles with advantages and limitations, mechanistic pathways and biological importance.
Another twist to the GLI code
Authors: Timmis Alex J. , Riobo-Del Galdo Natalia A.
Published: November 2020

The canonical Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway is essential for vertebrate development and its uncontrolled activation is a common occurrence in human cancers. Hh signalling converges in the modification of a family of transcription factors, GLI1, GLI2 and GLI3, to orchestrate a cell type and context-specific transcriptional response. Despite binding to very similar responsive elements, the GLI family members can exert diverse and even opposing functions. A recent article by Tolosa et al. (Biochem. J. 477, 3131–3145, 2020) reveals an unexpected layer of complexity, through physical and functional interaction between GLI1 and GLI2. This commentary discusses the biological significance of the findings and incorporates them into an updated ‘GLI code'.
Optimal invasive species surveillance in the real world: practical advances from research
Authors: Koch Frank H. , Yemshanov Denys , Haight Robert G. , MacQuarrie Chris J.K. , Liu Ning , Venette Robert , Ryall Krista
Published: November 2020

When alien species make incursions into novel environments, early detection through surveillance is critical to minimizing their impacts and preserving the possibility of timely eradication. However, incipient populations can be difficult to detect, and usually, there are limited resources for surveillance or other response activities. Modern optimization techniques enable surveillance planning that accounts for the biology and expected behavior of an invasive species while exploring multiple scenarios to identify the most cost-effective options. Nevertheless, most optimization models omit some real-world limitations faced by practitioners during multi-day surveillance campaigns, such as daily working time constraints, the time and cost to access survey sites and personnel work schedules. Consequently, surveillance managers must rely on their own judgments to handle these logistical details, and default to their experience during implementation. This is sensible, but their decisions may fail to address all relevant factors and may not be cost-effective. A better planning strategy is to determine optimal routing to survey sites while accounting for common daily logistical constraints. Adding site access and other logistical constraints imposes restrictions on the scope and extent of the surveillance effort, yielding costlier but more realistic expectations of the surveillance outcomes than in a theoretical planning case.