bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The target specificity of the RNA binding protein Pumilio is determined by distinct co-factors
Authors: Malik Sumira , Jang Wijeong , Park Song Yeon , Kim Ji Young , Kwon Ki-Sun , Kim Changsoo
Published: May 2019

Puf family proteins are translational regulators essential to a wide range of biological processes, including cell fate specification, stem cell self-renewal, and neural function. Yet, despite being associated with hundreds of RNAs, the underlying mechanisms of Puf target specification remain to be fully elucidated. In Drosophila, Pumilio – a sole Puf family protein – is known to collaborate with cofactors Nanos (Nos) and Brain Tumor (Brat); however, their roles in target specification are not clearly defined. Here, we identify Bag-of-marbles (Bam) as a new Pum cofactor in repression of Mothers against dpp (mad) mRNAs, for which Nos is known to be dispensable. Notably, our data show that Nos (but not Bam) was required for Pum association with hunchback (hb) mRNAs, a well-known target of Pum and Nos. In contrast, Bam (but not Nos) was required for Pum association with mad mRNAs. These findings show for the first time that Pum target specificity is determined not independently but in collaboration with cofactors.
LMI‐based reset unknown input observer for state estimation of linear uncertain systems
Authors: Hosseini Iman , Khayatian Alireza , Karimaghaee Paknoush , Fiacchini Mirko , Davo Navarro Miguel Angel
Published: May 2019

This study proposes a novel kind of unknown input observer (UIO) called reset unknown input observer (R‐UIO) for state estimation of linear time invariant (LTI) systems in the presence of disturbance using linear matrix inequality techniques. In R‐UIO, the states of the observer are reset to the after‐reset value based on an appropriate reset law in order to decrease the norm and settling time of estimation error. It is shown that the application of reset theory to the UIOs in the LTI systems can significantly improve the transient response of the observer. Moreover, the devised approach can be applied to both SISO and MIMO systems. Furthermore, the stability and convergence analysis of the devised R‐UIO is addressed. Finally, the efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated by simulation results.
Grid‐connected medium‐voltage converters with parallel voltage‐source active filters
Authors: Bernet Daniel , Hiller Marc
Published: May 2019

Grid‐connected medium‐voltage converters are typically operated at switching frequencies of several hundred hertz per switch position, requiring bulky and expensive LCL filters in order to meet the harmonic limits given by the grid code. Commonly, semiconductor current derating and increased switching frequencies are used to reduce the LCL‐filter costs, leading to a reduced utilisation and efficiency of the converter system. To overcome these disadvantages of conventional converter systems, the presented hybrid converter uses a parallel voltage‐source active output filter and thus allows a significant reduction of the passive component demand. The harmonic performance is improved for the operation with small passive filter components, revealing the potential for increasing the utilisation and efficiency of high power medium‐voltage converters. As a result, significant reductions of the filter losses and passive components as well as an increased output power are achieved compared to a reference LCL‐filter‐based converter system.
Series input multiple outputs flyback auxiliary power supply for input series–output parallel/input series–output series system
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhang Zhijie , Sun Ke , Yang Wei , Yang Shiyan , Li Fei , Yao Yu
Published: May 2019

A novel series input multiple outputs modular auxiliary power supply and its control strategy are proposed and investigated in this study. It adopts series input multiple outputs connection mode, where multiple auxiliary power modules are connected in series at the input side while they are independent at the output side. This auxiliary power supply can provide power for the control and drive circuits of the power modules in the input series modular system. To ensure input voltage sharing (IVS) between each module, a novel control strategy called master–slave peak current mode control strategy is proposed. With this control strategy, not only IVS can be achieved without any external central controller, but also the output controller and the IVS controller can be decoupled from each other when the system is running in discontinuous conduction mode. The stability of the control strategy is analysed, the effectiveness of the system is discussed and the design process of the controller is given. A two‐module auxiliary power supply system prototype is fabricated and tested. The experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed system scheme and control strategy.
Determination of synchronous machine parameters through the SSFRTtest and artificial neural networks
Authors: Kornrumpf Luiz Henrique Damato , Nabeta Silvio Ikuyo
Published: May 2019

The frequency response test on synchronous generators has been increasing in the last decades, but the high cost of equipment used for conducting the test is still a stumbling block for both manufacturers and end consumers. This study aims to propose a methodology for obtaining parameters, through the use of neural networks. This study treats the results designed through frequency tests, in which the proposal was the use of low‐cost equipment to perform them. In addition, a process of optimisation of the neural network was developed during the development of this study.
ANN‐based grid voltage and frequency forecaster
Authors: Massi Pavan Alessandro , Chettibi Nadjwa , Mellit Adel , Feehally Thomas , Forsyth Andrew J. , Todd Rebecca
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a method for the forecasting of the voltage and the frequency at the point of connection between a battery energy storage system installed at The University of Manchester and the local low‐voltage distribution grid. The techniques are to be used in a real‐time controller for optimal management of the storage system. The forecasters developed in this study use an artificial neural network (ANN)‐based technique and can predict the grid quantities with two different time windows: one second and one minute ahead. The developed ANNs have been implemented in a dSPACE‐based real‐time controller and all forecasters show very good performance, with correlations coefficients >0.85, and mean absolute percentage errors of <0.2%.
New method for experimental modal analysis of hydrogenerator's stator core using the excitation from the Poles
Authors: de Barros Allan , D'Agostini Alexandre , Penteado Thierre Zulzke , Kato Norio , Cunha André Alves , Faria Egidio José , Haluska Carlos , Hamaji Fernando Hiroyuki , Nabeta Silvio Ikuyo , Chabu Ivan Eduardo
Published: May 2019

The study of stator core vibrations generated by electromagnetic forces in electrical machines is of great practical and theoretical interest. An important part of the problem is the correct determination of mode shapes and eigen frequencies of the mechanical system. This work brings to discussion a new experimental modal analysis (EMA) method developed for synchronous machines in which the traditional instrumented hammer impulse is substituted by a magnetic pulse generated by currents applied in two poles. Experimental results obtained in a real 190 MVA hydrogenerator are shown.
Verordnungshäufigkeit und Inanspruchnahme von sport- und bewegungstherapeutischen Leistungen in der kardiologischen Rehabilitation 2006–2013
Authors: Gabrys Lars , Schmidt Christian
Published: May 2019

Ziel der Studie Maßnahmen der Sport- und Bewegungstherapie stellen sowohl inhaltlich als auch umfänglich den weitaus größten Teil therapeutischer Maßnahmen in der kardiologischen Rehabilitation dar. Zur Sicherung des Behandlungserfolgs und zum Erhalt der körperlichen Leistungs- und Arbeitsfähigkeit wird zudem eine langfristige Bindung an sporttherapeutische Angebote wie den Rehabilitationssport im Anschluss an die Rehabilitation angestrebt. Ziel der Studie ist es sowohl Verordnungsraten als auch die tatsächliche Inanspruchnahme von Nachsorgeleistungen im Anschluss an die kardiologische Rehabilitation systematisch zu evaluieren.

Methodik Es werden Verordnungs- und Inanspruchnahmeraten von Nachsorgeleistungen in Abhängigkeit einer Anschlussrehabilitation bzw. eines Heilverfahrens im Zeitverlauf der Reha-Kohorten 2006–2013 unter der Verwendung von Versichertendaten der Deutschen Rentenversicherung analysiert.

Ergebnisse Trotz abnehmender Verordnungsraten stellt Rehabilitationssport mit 55,7% (M) und 62,6 (F) die am häufigsten verordnete Nachsorgeleistung im Jahr 2013 dar. Im Gegensatz zu abnehmenden Verordnungsraten von 64,2 auf 55,7% (M) und von 68,0 auf 62,6% (F) in der Anschlussrehabilitation, kann je nach Geschlecht und Art der sporttherapeutischen Leistung eine Steigerung der Inanspruchnahme zwischen 3–7% über die Zeit beobachtet werden.

Schlussfolgerung Insgesamt erscheinen Inanspruchnahmeraten von 9,7–22,5% (2012) jedoch als nach wie vor zu gering zur Erzielung der angestrebten Bindung an körperliche Aktivität. Zukünftig sollten verstärkt Determinanten die einer Inanspruchnahme im Wege stehen evaluiert werden.
Ellbogenluxation bei Geburt? – Differenzialdiagnose von Ellbogenpathologien bei Geburt
Authors: Pokall Stefan , Sterniste Walter , Pärtan Gerald , Hartmann Beda , Girsch Werner
Published: May 2019

Wir berichten einen Fall von isolierter Kongenitaler Radiusköpfchenluxation (kRKL) bei einem Neugeborenen nach vaginaler Geburt aus Beckenendlage. Die Assoziationen dieser Geburtsmodalität führten zu der Fehldiagnose einer Ellbogenluxation. Die Ellbogenluxation ist eine häufige Fehldiagnose der kRKL, obwohl sie insbesondere bei Kindern unter einem Jahr bisher nicht berichtet wurde. Für den erfahrenen Kliniker führen jedoch die wiederholte klinische Untersuchung zusammen mit der geeigneten Bildgebung zum Ausschluß dieser Diagnose. Die kRKL kann bis in das Jugendalter asymptomatisch bleiben. Sofern keine Schmerzen oder funktionelle Beeinträchtigung vorliegen ist keine Therapie notwendig. Wir nahmen diesen Fall zum Anlass, neonatale Ellbogen-Auffälligkeiten in diesem Bericht zusammenzufassen.
Cuff-assisted versus cap-assisted colonoscopy for adenoma detection: results of a randomized study
Authors: Sola-Vera Javier , Catalá Lourdes , Uceda Francisco , Picó María Dolores , Pérez Rabasco Estefanía , Sáez Jesús , Jiménez Nuria , Arjona María Dolores , Fernández María , Girona Eva , García-Sepulcre Mariana Fe
Published: May 2019

Background The adenoma detection rate (ADR) is the most important marker of colonoscopy quality. Devices to improve adenoma detection have been developed, such as the Endocuff and transparent cap. The aim of the current study was to examine whether there was a difference in ADR between Endocuff-assisted (EAC) and cap-assisted colonoscopy (CAC).

Methods A randomized prospective trial was conducted. Eligible patients included adults ≥ 18 years referred because of symptoms, surveillance, or colonoscopies as part of the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP). The primary outcome measure was ADR. Secondary outcomes included mean number of adenomas, mean number of polyps, polyp detection rate, cecal intubation rate, and time to cecal intubation. Procedural measures, device removal rate, and adverse events were also recorded.

Results A total of 711 patients (51.1 % men; median age 63 years) were included, of whom 357 patients were randomized to EAC and 354 patients to CAC. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the ADR was similar in both groups: EAC 50.4 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 45.1 – 55.7) vs. CAC 50.6 % (95 %CI 45.2 – 55.9). Similar results were obtained in the per-protocol analysis: EAC 51.6 % (95 %CI 46.2 – 57) vs. CAC 51.4 % (95 %CI 46 – 56.8). There were no differences between the two devices in ADR according to the mean number of adenomas and polyps per procedure, polyp detection rate, cecal intubation rate, and time to cecal intubation. Device removal rate and adverse events were also similar.

Conclusion In this randomized study, no differences in ADR were found between Endocuff- and cap-assisted colonoscopy.
Tissue Factor and Cancer: Regulation, Tumor Growth, and Metastasis
Authors: Hisada Yohei , Mackman Nigel
Published: May 2019

There is a strong relationship between tissue factor (TF) and cancer. Many cancer cells express high levels of both full-length TF and alternatively spliced (as) TF. TF expression in cancer is associated with poor prognosis. In this review, the authors summarize the regulation of TF expression in cancer cells and the roles of TF and asTF in tumor growth and metastasis. A variety of different signaling pathways, transcription factors and micro ribonucleic acids regulate TF gene expression in cancer cells. The TF/factor VIIa complex enhances tumor growth by activating protease-activated receptor 2 signaling and by increasing the expression of angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor. AsTF increases tumor growth by enhancing integrin β1 signaling. TF and asTF also contribute to metastasis via multiple thrombin-dependent and independent mechanisms that include protecting tumor cells from natural killer cells. Finally, a novel anticancer therapy is using tumor TF as a target to deliver cytotoxic drugs to the tumor. TF may be useful in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cancer.
Seizures in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Rissardo Jamir Pitton , Caprara Ana Letícia Fornari
Published: May 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive pulmonary vasculopathy. A 29-year-old female patient presenting with dyspnea and syncope within 6 hours of onset was admitted to our hospital. The patient stated that she looked for a neurologist months ago because she experienced abrupt shaking limbs occurring during physical activity. She was diagnosed with focal seizure, and carbamazepine (CBZ) was started. On admission, she reported that the dyspnea had started in the last week and recurrent episodes of syncope in the last few hours. A right heart catheterization was diagnostic of PAH. She was started on spironolactone, furosemide, sildenafil, warfarin, and supplemental oxygen. On 10th admission day, the patient was seizure free and the dose of CBZ was tapered. In the follow-up, the patient remained seizure free. An investigation to search for a chronic lung disease or hypoxemia, systemic disorder, hematological disorder, and metabolic disorder was negative.
Fachkräftemangel: Klinik Hersbruck schließt schneller als geplant
Authors: Heeser Alexandra
Published: May 2019

Ärztemangel macht die ursprünglich für 2022 avisierte Schließung des Krankenhauses bereits zum 31. Mai notwendig. kma hat bei Dr. Thomas Grüneberg, Geschäftsführer Krankenhäuser Nürnberger Land (KNL) GmbH, nachgefragt wie es weitergeht.
Best Practice Award der Prospitalia GMBH: Mehr Sicherheit für Patienten mit Nierenschwäche
Authors: Pott Ariane
Published: May 2019

Den 1. Preis des Best-Practice-Awards 2019 erhielt in diesem Jahr die Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG aus Weiden in der Oberpfalz. Der auf dem Prospitalia Jahreskongress in Stuttgart verliehene Preis ist mit 5 000 Euro dotiert.
Blick nach Österreich: Was zu einer guten Patientenversorgung beiträgt
Authors: Schindler Carola
Published: May 2019

Wir haben mit Dr. Markus Klamminger, Medizinische Geschäftsführung der Niederösterreichischen Landeskliniken-Holding, über aktuelle Herausforderungen gesprochen – über den akuten Fachkräftemangel, die Ansprüche an die Qualitätssicherung und über Fortschritte und Hürden bei der Digitalisierung.
Händedesinfektion: Warum kompliziert, wenn es auch einfach geht?
Authors: Schulz-Stübner Sebastian
Published: May 2019

Heutzutage werden oftmals berührungsfreie, elektrisch betriebene Händedesinfektionsmittelspender anstelle von mechanischen Geräten eingesetzt. Doch sind sie im Alltag wirklich besser? Dieser Frage ging ein Schweizer Team um Jan Roth nach.
Innovationsfondsprojekt Cardiolotse: Bessere poststationäre Weiterbehandlung für Patienten mit kardiologischen Erkrankungen
Authors: Kolbe Stefanie , Darius Harald , Holzgreve Alfred , Supantia Pranomo , Riesner Petra
Published: May 2019

Die Umsetzung der Integrierten Versorgung im Sinne des Patienten ist bisher in Deutschland eine große Herausforderung, die es durch innovative Konzepte zu lösen gilt. In Berlin ist 2018 ein sehr interessantes Innovationsfondsprojekt zu diesem Thema angelaufen: das Projekt Cardiolotse.
Deutscher Pflegekongress 2019: Die Pflege boomt – Zukunft ist Topthema des Hauptstadtkongresses Medizin und Gesundheit
Authors: François-Kettner Hedwig
Published: May 2019

Politik und Leistungserbringer haben es erkannt: Ohne ein adäquates Maßnahmenbündel sind der pflegerische Sicherstellungsauftrag und damit auch erhebliche Erlöse in allen Sektoren im Gesundheitswesen extrem gefährdet. Bewohner von Pflegeeinrichtungen und Patienten hätten das Nachsehen!
Bundesverband Privater anbieter Sozialer Dienste e. v.: Pflegerische Versorgung hat oberste Priorität
Authors: Meurer Bernd
Published: May 2019

Im Fokus des Hauptstadtkongresses Medizin und Gesundheit stehen die Möglichkeiten der Digitalisierung. Auch die Pflege verbindet vielfältige Hoffnungen mit diesem Thema. Ganz besonders aber beschäftigt uns die Frage nach der Sicherstellung einer bedarfsdeckenden pflegerischen Versorgung.
A magnification-continuous calibration method for SEM-based nanorobotic manipulation systems
Authors: Pang Shuiquan , Zhang Xianmin , Zhang Xiang , Lu Yihua
Published: May 2019

Calibration for scanning electron microscope (SEM) based nanorobotic manipulation systems is important and difficult. Most current calibration methods are cumbersome because they require customized high precision calibration boards and repeated calibration procedures in different magnifications. This paper presents a convenient magnification-continuous calibration method with high precision for SEM-based nanorobotic manipulation systems. The projection matrix containing a continuous magnification factor is obtained by modifying the affine camera model. This facilitates the simplification of the parameter computing process. Movement features are used to align the moving axes of micropositioning stages and calibrate the system, which benefits for the realization of efficient automatic calibration. Three experiments are carried out, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective and practical for calibrating SEM-based nanorobotic manipulation systems under a wide range of continuous magnifications. Experiments also confirm that high precision measurements can be conducted in different magnifications with only once calibration and the relative error is within 1%.
Phase modulation characteristics analysis of liquid crystal spatial light modulator under oblique incidence
Authors: Niu Qifeng , Wang Chunyang , Shi Hongwei
Published: May 2019

A correction method for obtaining the phase modulation curves of liquid crystal spatial light modulator (LCSLM) systems under oblique incidence is proposed. Considering the reflection and refraction of the interface, the influence of oblique incidence on the LCSLM phase modulation was simulated and analyzed by solving the extended Jones matrix. The polarization interference principle was applied to construct a phase modulation system, the phase modulation was measured at different incident angles, and the measured data were subjected to Fourier fitting. The phase modulation curve was corrected to a straight line using the inverse interpolation method, and the lookup table (LUT) for the gray level and phase was then generated through the line coordinates. The measured results revealed that a larger angle of oblique incidence led to a smaller range of phase modulation. For LCSLM to function over a range from 0 to 2π, the oblique incidence angle should be less than 45°. Experimental results using 25° as an example confirmed the validity of the LUT. The correlation coefficient R between the phase modulation curve and the ideal linear curve was 0.9893, and the root-mean-square error was 0.1888. At incident angles from 0° to 45°, the linearity of the corrected LUT was as good as that of the LUT for vertical incidence, thereby laying the foundation for high-precision beam pointing control.
Error correction associated with stray light for Faraday-effect polarimetry system on EAST
Authors: Lian H. , Liu H. Q. , Ding W. X. , Wang S. X. , Li W. M. , Chu Y. Q. , Wang Y. F. , Jie Y. X.
Published: May 2019

The polarimeter-interferometer system with 11 double-pass radial-view measurement chords has the ability to provide electron density and plasma current profiles, making it exceptionally useful in daily operation on the Experiment Advanced Superconducting Tokamak. However, due to limited optical access and intrinsic feedback, the stray lights arising from spurious reflections along the optical path (unwanted reflections from various optical components/mounts and transmissive optical elements such as windows, waveplates, and lenses as well as the detectors) distort the Faraday rotation measurements. Furthermore, the feedback light from the retro-reflector which is used to realize the double-pass configuration makes it even worse. A data processing approach to decrease the stray light influence is reported in this paper. Based on the theoretical model developed, the Faraday rotation angle is extracted by subtracting the deviation term which can be calculated with a simplified model. With this approach, the Faraday rotation oscillation during density ramp-up can be reduced from 2°–5° to 0.5°–1.5°, which reduces the Faraday rotation measurement errors significantly.
Analytical investigation of self-oscillating condition for resonant terahertz extended interaction oscillators
Authors: Bahman Soltani Hooman , Abiri Habibollah
Published: May 2019

Extended Interaction Oscillators (EIOs) are high-frequency sources of millimeter wave and terahertz radiations. The dimensions of the EIO resonant structure should be smaller to generate higher frequency signals. However, due to the skin effect and decreasing the available beam surface area, the maximum obtainable oscillating frequency of any RF geometry of EIO is limited. Analytical relations for maximum attainable frequencies of resonant EIO geometries in the sense of beam-wave coupling are derived and presented in this paper. They are directly expressed in terms of the standing-wave profile of the RF resonant circuit in this work. The maximum frequencies are expressed in terms of a defined two-variable analytical function U for single-section resonant EIOs. Besides, an algebraic formula is derived for a critical unloaded frequency of an EIO geometry (fcr) in terms of the resonant circuit field distribution. A 4/5 power-law dependency is derived for a maximum oscillating frequency vs a number of periods of the RF circuit. For two completely different EIO geometries, the results of the obtained relations are compared with the outcomes of a particle-in-cell solver, showing acceptable agreement for both the structures. In addition to computational rapidity, the obtained relations present an analytical viewpoint to estimate and improve the high-frequency generation capability of terahertz extended interaction oscillators.
Numerical investigation of the flow characteristics of underexpanded methane jets
Authors: Banholzer M. , Vera-Tudela W. , Traxinger C. , Pfitzner M. , Wright Y. , Boulouchos K.
Published: May 2019

In the present work, numerical simulations are carried out to investigate underexpanded methane jets with phase separation effects. In order to predict the fuel injection and the mixture formation in the constant volume chamber, a hybrid, pressure-based solver is combined with a vapor-liquid equilibrium model and a moving mesh methodology. The thermodynamic models are based on the cubic equation of state of Soave, Redlich, and Kwong. A compressibility correction for the widely known kωSST turbulence model is implemented additionally. Application-relevant simulations with a total fuel pressure of 300 bars and five different chamber pressures ranging from 12 to 60 bars were defined. Furthermore, the influence of two fuel and chamber temperatures, 294 and 363 K, is analyzed. Depending on the chamber pressure, two different flow structures of the potential core can be distinguished: (1) A series of typical shock barrels for small pressure ratios and moderately underexpanded jets and (2) a shear layer consisting of a two-phase mixture which enfolds the potential core for high pressure ratios and highly underexpanded jets. Increasing the fuel temperature leads to less significant phase separations, while an increase in the chamber pressure does not affect the structure of the potential core. A comparison with experimental measurements shows a very good agreement of the simulated structure of the potential core, providing evidence that the underlying phenomena are predicted correctly and suggesting that a moving mesh strategy and consistent two-phase thermodynamics implementation are necessary for a physical representation of high-pressure injections.
Acoustic waves splitter employing orbital angular momentum
Authors: Liu Fengming , Li Weiping , Pu Zhenhang , Ke Manzhu
Published: May 2019

A sound splitter using the orbital angular momentum (OAM) of acoustic vortices is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. We show that a helical waveguide with a periodic array of shunted tubes can be used to achieve different transmission spectra for the acoustic vortices with opposite OAM topological charges due to their different Bragg scattering type bandgaps. By symmetry, the transmission spectra will reverse if the handedness of the helical waveguides is changed. Therefore, two such composite waveguides with opposite handedness can be combined to separate the OAM-dependent flow of sound. Our study of the acoustic vortex splitter may provide a route for demultiplexing in acoustic OAM-based communication.
Triple differential cross sections for electron-impact ionization of methane at intermediate energy
Authors: Ali Esam , Granados Carlos , Sakaamini Ahmad , Harvey Matthew , Ancarani Lorenzo Ugo , Murray Andrew James , Dogan Mevlut , Ning Chuangang , Colgan James , Madison Don
Published: May 2019

We report an experimental and theoretical investigation of electron-impact single ionization of the highest occupied molecular orbital 1t2 and the next highest occupied molecular orbital 2a1 states of CH4 at an incident electron energy of 250 eV. Triple differential cross sections measured in two different laboratories were compared with results calculated within the molecular 3-body distorted wave and generalized Sturmian function theoretical models. For ionization of the 1t2 state, the binary peak was observed to have a single maximum near the momentum transfer direction that evolved into a double peak for increasing projectile scattering angles, as has been seen for ionization of atomic p-states. A detailed investigation of this evolution was performed. As expected because of its s-type character, for ionization of the 2a1 state, only a single binary peak was observed. Overall, good agreement was found between experiment and theory.
Cationic radionuclides and ligands for targeted therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Egorova Bayirta V. , Fedorova Olga A. , Kalmykov Stepan N.
Published: May 2019

This review considers the already used and potential α- and β-emitting cationic radionuclides for targeted radionuclide therapy. Recent results of laboratory, preclinical and clinical applications of these radionuclides are discussed. As opposed to β-emitters, which are already used in nuclear medicine, α-emitters involved in targeted radiopharmaceuticals were subjected to clinical trials only recently and were found to be therapeutically effective. The review summarizes recent trends in the development of ligands as components of radiopharmaceuticals addressing specific features of short-lived cationic radionuclides applied in medicine. Despite a steadily growing number of chelating ligands, 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) remain the most widely used agents in nuclear medicine. The drawbacks of these compounds restrict the application of radionuclides in medicine. Variations in the macrocycle size, the introduction and modification of substituents can significantly improve the chelating ability of ligands, enhance stability of radionuclide complexes with these ligands and eliminate the influence of ligands on the affinity of biological targeting vectors.

The bibliography includes 189 references.
Persistence of rare species depends on rare events: demography, fire response and phenology of two plant species endemic to a semiarid Banded Iron Formation range
Authors: Miller Ben P. , Symons David R. , Barrett Matthew D.
Published: May 2019

The association of rare plant species and Banded Iron Formation (BIF) ranges in semiarid Western Australia is a noted phenomenon. These ranges are also a focus of iron ore exploration and mining. Decisions and planning required for development, conservation and management resulting from this interest, often consider translocation of these threatened species. Nonetheless, little is known about the ecology of BIF-endemic species to support any such decisions. We assessed population structure, patterns of growth, mortality, recruitment, reproduction and in situ seedbank persistence for two declared rare flora species. The shrub Darwinia masonii, and sedge Lepidosperma gibsonii are endemic to an area <40 km2 on the south-western boundary of the Australian arid zone. Both species were found to be long lived and slow growing, with evidence for reliance on rare events such as fire, and high rainfall years, including, for some processes, consecutive high rainfall years for growth, reproduction and recruitment. Retrieval and germination of seed batches shows that both species’ seedbanks are long-lived, with seasonal dormancy cycling. This, together with the ability of mature plants to survive through years not supporting growth, and, for L. gibsonii, to resprout after fire, are key mechanism for persistence in this unpredictable and low rainfall environment.
Identifying germination opportunities for threatened plant species in episodic ecosystems by linking germination profiles with historic rainfall events
Authors: Elliott Carole P. , Lewandrowski Wolfgang , Miller Ben P. , Barrett Matthew , Turner Shane R.
Published: May 2019

Dynamic processes of seed germination, influenced by niche–climate interactions, underpin successful seedling establishment. For threatened species with niches restricted to specific landforms, such as Banded Ironstone Formations (BIF), understanding germination opportunities in relation to long-term rainfall patterns can be critical for management. We quantified germination profiles (germinating fraction and speed with varying dormancy states) from six taxonomically diverse threatened species that are endemic to BIF in Western Australia, and related this to historic rainfall patterns and events. The upper limit of the germination profiles (i.e. for dormancy-alleviated seed) was 1.2–60 times higher (germinating fraction; Gmax) and 1.1–4 times faster (T10) than the lower profile limit (i.e. dormancy not alleviated) in the physiologically dormant species studied (Tetratheca paynterae Alford subsp. paynterae and T. erubescens J.P.Bull; Ricinocarpos brevis R.J.F.Hend. & Mollemans; Darwinia masonii C.A.Gardner; Lepidosperma gibsonii R.L.Barrett). Seeds of Banksia arborea (C.A.Gardner) A.R.Mast & K.R.Thiele are non-dormant and had a germination profile similar to this upper limit. The minimum period of moisture required for germination was less than eight consecutive days and our simple moisture model, based on historic rainfall patterns for their localities, indicated that these periods have likely occurred 16 times in the last 100 years. We suggest that these BIF species are likely committing to germination during heightened rainfall periods, despite these periods being infrequent and irregular. Understanding the germination profiles of range-restricted species provides important insights into the environmental filters regulating recruitment and supports the development of more effective management and conservation approaches for protecting these species.
Rice–wheat cropping systems in South Asia: issues, options and opportunities
Authors: Nawaz Ahmad , Farooq Muhammad , Nadeem Faisal , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Lal Rattan
Published: May 2019

The rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system is the largest agricultural production system worldwide, and is practised on 24 Mha in Asia. Many factors have threatened the long-term sustainability of conventional rice–wheat cropping systems, including degradation of soil health, water scarcity, labour/energy crises, nutrient imbalances, low soil organic matter contents, complex weed and insect flora, the emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds, and greenhouse-gas emissions. Options for improving the yield and sustainability of the rice–wheat cropping system include the use of resource-conservation technologies such as no-till wheat, laser-assisted land levelling, and direct-seeded aerobic rice. However, these technologies are site- and situation-specific; for example, direct-seeded aerobic rice is successful on heavy-textured soils but not sandy soils. Other useful strategies include seed priming, carbon trading and payment, the inclusion of legumes, and eco-friendly and biological methods of weed control. Irrigation based on soil matric potential using tensiometers can be useful for saving surplus water in direct-seeded, aerobic rice. These options and strategies will contribute to resolving water scarcity, saving labour and energy resources, reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, increasing soil organic matter contents, and improving the soil-quality index. Seed priming with various substances that supplement osmotic pressure (osmotica) is a viable option for addressing poor stand establishment in conservation rice–wheat cropping systems and for increasing crop yields. To strengthen the campaign for using resource-conservation technologies in rice–wheat cropping systems, carbon-payment schemes could be introduced and machinery should be offered at affordable prices. The persistent issue of burning crop residues could be resolved by incorporating these residues into biogas/ethanol and biochar production. Because rice and wheat are staple foods in South Asia, agronomic biofortification is a useful option for enhancing micronutrient contents in grains to help to reduce malnutrition.
Introduction
Authors: Howard Martin , Ågren Malin
Published: May 2019

Dans cette introduction, nous caractérisons le phénomène phonologique que constitue la liaison en français en faisant référence à ses contextes d’emploi morphosyntaxiques. Ensuite, nous présentons un court survol des recherches antérieures sur l’acquisition de la liaison en langue seconde du point de vue du défi qu’elle pose par rapport à sa compréhension chez l’apprenant, ainsi que par rapport à sa production dans les lectes d’apprenants. Nous identifions aussi les résultats principaux dans chaque domaine. Nous concluons par un bref résumé des articles du numéro qui met en lumière quelques questions importantes concernant l’acquisition de cet aspect de la phonologie du français.
Learning to read liaison in French as a Foreign Language
Authors: Detey Sylvain , Racine Isabelle
Published: May 2019

Many of the studies devoted to the acquisition of liaison in French as a foreign language have been carried out with advanced learners, whose first languages were often typologically close to French, and typically without much consideration to the graphophonemic dimension, which is an essential part of the learning process. In this article, we provide a brief overview of the linguistic and contextual factors in the acquisition of liaison by Japanese learners of French in Japan, with a particular focus on the connection between literacy and phonological skills. We then present initial results of a two-year longitudinal study (four sessions) of text-reading tasks with beginner Japanese learners of French (n = 12) in Tokyo, using the same tasks employed in two large corpora of French native (PFC) and non-native (IPFC) speakers/readers. Our data offer a glimpse into the evolution of these learners during the initial acquisition of L2 phonological/literacy skills.
The production of preverbal liaison in Swedish learners of L2 French
Authors: Ågren Malin , van de Weijer Joost
Published: May 2019

The acquisition of preverbal liaison (e.g.ils arrivent/ilzaʀiv/) in second language (L2) French has rarely been explored in detail in previous studies on obligatory liaison. In this study, we conducted an elicited imitation test in order to study the influence of proficiency level, modality (spoken or written), and verb frequency on the use of preverbal liaison among 42 Swedish learners of L2 French and 21 native speakers of French. The results indicate that L2 beginners had considerable difficulty with the production of preverbal liaison, while the most proficient L2 learners performed nearly as well as the native speakers. In addition, we observed that beginner learners, in contrast to the more proficient ones, performed better with written than spoken stimuli. Finally, we observed no impact of verb frequency on participant performance. Based on these results, we discuss the possible influence of input frequency (both type and token) on the production of preverbal liaison, and conclude that future studies need to address the input characteristics of the L2 classroom in more detail.
Body composition of elite Olympic combat sport athletes
Authors: Reale Reid , Burke Louise M. , Cox Gregory R. , Slater Gary
Published: May 2019

Physique traits of a range of elite athletes have been identified; however, few detailed investigations of Olympic combat sports (judo, wrestling, taekwondo and boxing) exist. This is surprising given the importance of body composition in weight category sports. We sought to develop a descriptive database of Olympic combat sport athletes, compare variables relative to weight division and examine differences within and between sports. Additionally, we investigated the appropriateness of athletes’ self‐selected weight classes compared to an internationally recognised classification system (the NCAA minimum wrestling weight scheme used to identify minimum ‘safe’ weight). Olympic combat sport athletes (56♂, 38♀) had body mass (BM), stretch stature and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry derived body composition assessed within 7–21 days of competition. Most athletes were heavier than their weight division. Sport had an effect (p < .05) on several physique traits, including; lean mass, lean mass distribution, stretch stature and BMI. BM was strongly positively correlated (r > 0.6) with; fat free mass, fat mass and body fat percentage, however, was not predictive of total mass/weight division. The Olympic combat sports differ in competitive format and physiological requirements, which is partly reflected in athletes’ physique traits. We provide reference ranges for lean and fat mass across a range of BM. Lighter athletes likely must utilise acute weight loss in order to make weight, whereas heavier athletes can potentially reduce fat mass.
Sex-specific effects of microbiome perturbations on cerebral Aβ amyloidosis and microglia phenotypes
Authors: Dodiya Hemraj B. , Kuntz Thomas , Shaik Shabana M. , Baufeld Caroline , Leibowitz Jeffrey , Zhang Xulun , Gottel Neil , Zhang Xiaoqiong , Butovsky Oleg , Gilbert Jack A. , Sisodia Sangram S.
Published: May 2019

We demonstrated that an antibiotic cocktail (ABX)-perturbed gut microbiome is associated with reduced amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque pathology and astrogliosis in the male amyloid precursor protein (APP)SWE/presenilin 1 (PS1)ΔE9 transgenic model of Aβ amyloidosis. We now show that in an independent, aggressive APPSWE/PS1L166P (APPPS1-21) mouse model of Aβ amyloidosis, an ABX-perturbed gut microbiome is associated with a reduction in Aβ pathology and alterations in microglial morphology, thus establishing the generality of the phenomenon. Most importantly, these latter alterations occur only in brains of male mice, not in the brains of female mice. Furthermore, ABX treatment lead to alterations in levels of selected microglial expressed transcripts indicative of the “M0” homeostatic state in male but not in female mice. Finally, we found that transplants of fecal microbiota from age-matched APPPS1-21 male mice into ABX-treated APPPS1-21 male restores the gut microbiome and partially restores Aβ pathology and microglial morphology, thus demonstrating a causal role of the microbiome in the modulation of Aβ amyloidosis and microglial physiology in mouse models of Aβ amyloidosis.
Comparison of structural, mechanical and optical properties of tantalum hemicarbide with tantalum monocarbide: ab initio calculations
Authors: Jubair M , Karim A M M Tanveer , Nuruzzaman M , Zilani M A K
Published: May 2019

First-principles calculations are employed to investigate and compare the structural, elastic and optical properties of tantalum hemicarbide Ta2C and tantalum monocarbide TaC. Calculated lattice constants of these carbides are in good agreement with available theoretical and experimental results. The mechanical stability of these carbides is affirmed by the estimated values of elastic constants. The estimated values of Vickers hardness indicate that TaC is harder than Ta2C. The values of Pugh’s ratio and Poisson’s ratio suggest the brittle nature of both Ta2C and TaC. The optical properties of Ta2C along two polarization directions [001] and [100] are studied in details for the first time. Our study shows that the optical properties of both Ta2C and TaC compounds compliment the electronic structure calculations. Optical constants of Ta2C show significant dependence of the state of polarization of the incident electric field, and predict this material as optically anisotropic.
Acoustic community structure and seasonal turnover in tropical South Asian birds
Authors: Krishnan Anand
Published: May 2019

Birds produce diverse acoustic signals, with coexisting species occupying distinct “acoustic niches” to minimize masking, resulting in overdispersion within acoustic space. In tropical regions of the world, an influx of migrants from temperate regions occurs during winter. The effects of these migrants on acoustic community structure and dynamics remain unstudied. Here, I show that in a tropical dry forest bird community occurring within an urban area in India, the influx of winter migrants is accompanied by a change in species composition of the acoustic community. However, in spite of this, the acoustic community remains overdispersed in acoustic niche space. The winter community of vocal birds at this study site additionally exhibits lower energy in the 4–7 kHz frequency bands (consistent with species singing less continuously), as well as lower phylogenetic diversity. My data are thus indicative of seasonal turnover in acoustic communities but suggest that acoustic niches and community structure are stable across seasons. Migrants occupy similar regions of acoustic space as residents and are relatively closely related to some of these species. Their arrival, therefore, leads to greater phylogenetic clustering in the winter and thus lower phylogenetic diversity, although the acoustic community remains overdispersed. Studying seasonal dynamics of acoustic communities thus provides valuable insight into assembly processes, as well as a potential framework for long-term monitoring of urban ecosystems.
Estimating the predictability of cancer evolution
Authors: Hosseini Sayed-Rzgar , Diaz-Uriarte Ramon , Markowetz Florian , Beerenwinkel Niko
Published: May 2019

Motivation

How predictable is the evolution of cancer? This fundamental question is of immense relevance for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of cancer. Evolutionary biologists have approached the question of predictability based on the underlying fitness landscape. However, empirical fitness landscapes of tumor cells are impossible to determine in vivo. Thus, in order to quantify the predictability of cancer evolution, alternative approaches are required that circumvent the need for fitness landscapes.

Results

We developed a computational method based on conjunctive Bayesian networks (CBNs) to quantify the predictability of cancer evolution directly from mutational data, without the need for measuring or estimating fitness. Using simulated data derived from >200 different fitness landscapes, we show that our CBN-based notion of evolutionary predictability strongly correlates with the classical notion of predictability based on fitness landscapes under the strong selection weak mutation assumption. The statistical framework enables robust and scalable quantification of evolutionary predictability. We applied our approach to driver mutation data from the TCGA and the MSK-IMPACT clinical cohorts to systematically compare the predictability of 15 different cancer types. We found that cancer evolution is remarkably predictable as only a small fraction of evolutionary trajectories are feasible during cancer progression.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/cbg-ethz/predictability\_of\_cancer\_evolution

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
ReSimNet: drug response similarity prediction using Siamese neural networks
Authors: Jeon Minji , Park Donghyeon , Lee Jinhyuk , Jeon Hwisang , Ko Miyoung , Kim Sunkyu , Choi Yonghwa , Tan Aik-Choon , Kang Jaewoo
Published: May 2019

Motivation

Traditional drug discovery approaches identify a target for a disease and find a compound that binds to the target. In this approach, structures of compounds are considered as the most important features because it is assumed that similar structures will bind to the same target. Therefore, structural analogs of the drugs that bind to the target are selected as drug candidates. However, even though compounds are not structural analogs, they may achieve the desired response. A new drug discovery method based on drug response, which can complement the structure-based methods, is needed.

Results

We implemented Siamese neural networks called ReSimNet that take as input two chemical compounds and predicts the CMap score of the two compounds, which we use to measure the transcriptional response similarity of the two compounds. ReSimNet learns the embedding vector of a chemical compound in a transcriptional response space. ReSimNet is trained to minimize the difference between the cosine similarity of the embedding vectors of the two compounds and the CMap score of the two compounds. ReSimNet can find pairs of compounds that are similar in response even though they may have dissimilar structures. In our quantitative evaluation, ReSimNet outperformed the baseline machine learning models. The ReSimNet ensemble model achieves a Pearson correlation of 0.518 and a precision@1% of 0.989. In addition, in the qualitative analysis, we tested ReSimNet on the ZINC15 database and showed that ReSimNet successfully identifies chemical compounds that are relevant to a prototype drug whose mechanism of action is known.

Availability and implementation

The source code and the pre-trained weights of ReSimNet are available at https://github.com/dmis-lab/ReSimNet.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.