bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of ACE2 and a viral virulence-regulating factor CCN family member 1 in human iPSC-derived neural cells: implications for COVID-19-related CNS disorders
Authors: Kase Yoshitaka , Okano Hideyuki
Published: September 2020

It has been reported that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes not only pneumonia but also systemic inflammations including central nervous system (CNS) disorders. However, little is known about the mechanism that triggers the COVID-19-associated CNS disorders, due to the lack of appropriate experimental systems. Our present study showed that angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2, is expressed in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (hiPSC-NS/PCs) and young neurons. Furthermore, together with database analysis, we found that a viral virulent factor CCN family member 1 (CCN1), which is known to be induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection, is expressed in these cells at basal levels. Considering the role of CCN1 which is known to be involved in viral toxicity and inflammation, hiPSC-NS/PCs could provide an excellent model for COVID-19-associated CNS disorders from the aspect of SARS-CoV-2 infection-ACE2-CCN1 axis. In addition, we identified compounds that reduce CCN1 expression. Collectively, our study using hiPSC-NS/PCs may aid in the development of a therapeutic target for COVID-19-related CNS disorders.
Gender-specific temporal trends in overweight prevalence among Chinese adults: a hierarchical age-period-cohort analysis from 2008 to 2015
Authors: Yang Yinmei , Kelifa Mohammedhamid Osman , Yu Bin , Herbert Carly , Wang Yongbo , Jiang Junfeng
Published: September 2020

Background

As a key health risk, the prevalence of overweight has been strikingly increasing worldwide. This study aimed to disentangle the net age, period, and cohort effects on overweight among Chinese adults by gender.

Methods

Data came from the Chinese General Social Survey from 2008 to 2015, which was a repeated cross-sectional survey (n = 55,726, aged 18 and older). χ2 or t tests were used to estimate the gender disparities in overweight and socioeconomic status (SES). A series of hierarchical age-period-cohort cross-classified random-effects models were performed using SAS version 9.4 to estimate the overall and gender-specific temporal trends of overweight, as well as the association between SES and overweight. Further, a series of line charts were used to present the age and cohort variations in overweight.

Results

After controlling for covariates, significant age and cohort effects were observed among adults in China (b = 0.0205, p < 0.001; b = 0.0122, p < 0.05; respectively). Specifically, inverted U-shaped age effects were identified for both genders, with a high probability of overweight occurring in middle age (b = –0.0012, p < 0.001). Overweight was more prevalent among men than women before 60 years old, and this trend reversed thereafter (b = –0.0253, p < 0.001). Moreover, men born during the war (before 1950) and reform cohorts (after the 1975s) demonstrated a substantial decline in overweight, while men born in 1950–1975 showed an increasing trend in overweight prevalence (b = 0.0378, p < 0.05). However, the cohort effect on women was not statistically significant. Additionally, a higher SES was related to an elevated probability of overweight.

Conclusion

Gender-specific age and cohort effects on the prevalence of overweight were observed among Chinese adults. Both China and other developing countries need to pay attention to the coming obesity challenge and related health inequality. Full life-cycle overweight prevention interventions should focus on middle-aged adults, men born in the war and reform eras, and adults with a higher SES.
Suitable methods for isolation, culture, storage and identification of wheat blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae Triticum pathotype
Authors: Gupta Dipali Rani , Surovy Musrat Zahan , Mahmud Nur Uddin , Chakraborty Moutoshi , Paul Sanjoy Kumar , Hossain Md. Shaid , Bhattacharjee Pallab , Mehebub Md. Shabab , Rani Kanistha , Yeasmin Rumana , Rahman Mahfuzur , Islam Md Tofazzal
Published: September 2020

Wheat blast disease caused by a South American lineage of Magnaporthe oryzae Triticum (MoT) pathotype has emerged as a serious threat to wheat production in Bangladesh since its first emergence in 2016. Efficient and suitable methods for isolation, storage, inoculum production and molecular characterization of the pathogen can help in achieving the target of sustainable management of the disease in a relatively short period of time. In this study, we aimed to develop suitable methods for isolation, storage and morphological characterization and molecular identification of MoT isolates collected from the blast-infected wheat fields in Bangladesh. This process included modification of existing protocols that were available for a related fungal pathogen M. oryzae or de novo method development and validation. We developed suitable methods for isolation of MoT from field-infected plant samples using modified monoconidial isolation technique and produced abundant conidia from a single mycelial plate for in vivo pathogenicity assay in a reproducible manner. Cultural and morphological characterization of the isolates revealed that all Bangladeshi MoT isolates are of a single clonal lineage with similar cultural and morphological characters. Molecular detection of isolates with M. oryzae-specific primers Pot1 and Pot2 and MoT-specific primers MoT3F and MoT3R produced bands with the expected size from all wheat-infecting isolates. We also successfully established a PCR-based detection system based on a commercially available detection kit for field-infected leaf and seed samples by detecting Pot2- and MoT3-specific bands. Additionally, the simple method we developed in our study for producing abundant conidia in a very short period of time will be very helpful in studying biology of the wheat blast fungus. This method was also proven to be more user-friendly and cost-effective than previously available methods. Successful characterization of MoT isolates at morphological and molecular levels coupled with detection of the pathogen in infected field and seed lots should be useful for efficient surveillance and management of the fearsome wheat blast disease.
Phase I Study of Cabozantinib and Nivolumab Alone or With Ipilimumab for Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma and Other Genitourinary Tumors
Authors: Apolo Andrea B. , Nadal Rosa , Girardi Daniel M. , Niglio Scot A. , Ley Lisa , Cordes Lisa M. , Steinberg Seth M. , Sierra Ortiz Olena , Cadena Jacqueline , Diaz Carlos , Mallek Marissa , Davarpanah Nicole N. , Costello Rene , Trepel Jane B. , Lee Min-Jung , Merino Maria J. , Bagheri Mohammad Hadi , Monk Paul , Figg William D. , Gulley James L. , Agarwal Piyush K. , Valera Vladimir , Chalfin Heather J. , Jones Jennifer , Streicher Howard , Wright John J. , Ning Yangmin M. , Parnes Howard L. , Dahut William L. , Bottaro Donald P. , Lara Primo N. , Saraiya Biren , Pal Sumanta K. , Stein Mark N. , Mortazavi Amir
Published: September 2020

PURPOSE

We assessed the safety and efficacy of cabozantinib and nivolumab (CaboNivo) and CaboNivo plus ipilimumab (CaboNivoIpi) in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) and other genitourinary (GU) malignances.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients received escalating doses of CaboNivo or CaboNivoIpi. The primary objective was to establish a recommended phase II dose (RP2D). Secondary objectives included objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), duration of response (DoR), and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were enrolled at eight dose levels with a median follow-up time of 44.6 months; data cutoff was January 20, 2020. Grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events (AEs) occurred in 75% and 87% of patients treated with CaboNivo and CaboNivoIpi, respectively, and included fatigue (17% and 10%, respectively), diarrhea (4% and 7%, respectively), and hypertension (21% and 10%, respectively); grade 3 or 4 immune-related AEs included hepatitis (0% and 13%, respectively) and colitis (0% and 7%, respectively). The RP2D was cabozantinib 40 mg/d plus nivolumab 3 mg/kg for CaboNivo and cabozantinib 40 mg/d, nivolumab 3 mg/kg, and ipilimumab 1 mg/kg for CaboNivoIpi. ORR was 30.6% (95% CI, 20.0% to 47.5%) for all patients and 38.5% (95% CI, 13.9% to 68.4%) for patients with mUC. Median DoR was 21.0 months (95% CI, 5.4 to 24.1 months) for all patients and not reached for patients with mUC. Median PFS was 5.1 months (95% CI, 3.5 to 6.9 months) for all patients and 12.8 months (95% CI, 1.8 to 24.1 months) for patients with mUC. Median OS was 12.6 months (95% CI, 6.9 to 18.8 months) for all patients and 25.4 months (95% CI, 5.7 to 41.6 months) for patients with mUC.

CONCLUSION

CaboNivo and CaboNivoIpi demonstrated manageable toxicities with durable responses and encouraging survival in patients with mUC and other GU tumors. Multiple phase II and III trials are ongoing for these combinations.
Not just scratching the surface: Distinct radular motion patterns in Mollusca
Authors: Scheel Carolin , Gorb Stanislav N. , Glaubrecht Matthias , Krings Wencke
Published: September 2020

The radula is the organ for mechanical food processing and an important autapomorphy of Mollusca. Its chitinous membrane, embedding small radular teeth, is moved by the set of muscles resulting in an interaction with the ingesta, tearing it and collecting loosened particles. Radulae and their teeth can be quite distinct in their morphology and had been of high research interest, but only few studies have examined the basic functional principles of this organ, the movement and motion during feeding action. Here, the radular motion of 20 representative species, belonging to four major gastropod lineages (Vetigastropoda, Neritimorpha, Caenogastropoda, Heterobranchia) and Polyplacophora, were recorded and classified. Comparisons of the video footage with the SEM images of the radula resulted in the recognition of functional tooth rows and the correct position of the teeth during feeding. We identified six different types of radular movements, including rotations and bending of the radula itself. In each movement type, different structures act as counter bearings enabling the animals to grab and tear food.
p63-related signaling at a glance
Authors: Fisher Matthew L. , Balinth Seamus , Mills Alea A.
Published: September 2020

p63 (also known as TP63) is a transcription factor of the p53 family, along with p73. Multiple isoforms of p63 have been discovered and these have diverse functions encompassing a wide array of cell biology. p63 isoforms are implicated in lineage specification, proliferative potential, differentiation, cell death and survival, DNA damage response and metabolism. Furthermore, p63 is linked to human disease states including cancer. p63 is critical to many aspects of cell signaling, and in this Cell science at a glance article and the accompanying poster, we focus on the signaling cascades regulating TAp63 and ΔNp63 isoforms and those that are regulated by TAp63 and ΔNp63, as well the role of p63 in disease.
Integration of JAK/STAT receptor-ligand trafficking, signalling and gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster cells
Authors: Moore Rachel , Vogt Katja , Acosta Martin Adelina E. , Shire Patrick , Zeidler Martin , Smythe Elizabeth
Published: September 2020

The JAK/STAT pathway is an essential signalling cascade required for multiple processes during development and for adult homeostasis. A key question in understanding this pathway is how it is regulated in different cell contexts. Here we have examined how endocytic processing contributes to signalling by the single cytokine receptor, Domeless, in Drosophila melanogaster cells. We identify an evolutionarily conserved di-Leu motif that is required for Domeless internalisation and show that endocytosis is required for activation of a subset of Domeless targets. Our data indicate that endocytosis both qualitatively and quantitatively regulates Domeless signalling. STAT92E, the single STAT transcription factor in Drosophila, appears to be the target of endocytic regulation and our studies show that phosphorylation of STAT92E on Tyr704, while necessary, is not always sufficient for target transcription. Finally, we identify a conserved residue, Thr702, which is essential for Tyr704 phosphorylation. Taken together, our findings identify previously unknown aspects of JAK/STAT pathway regulation likely to play key roles in the spatial and temporal regulation of signalling in vivo.
Cell-to-cell and genome-to-genome variability of adenovirus transcription tuned by the cell cycle
Authors: Suomalainen Maarit , Prasad Vibhu , Kannan Abhilash , Greber Urs F.
Published: September 2020

In clonal cultures, not all cells are equally susceptible to virus infection, and the mechanisms underlying this are poorly understood. Here, we developed image-based single-cell measurements to scrutinize the heterogeneity of adenovirus (AdV) infection. AdV delivers, transcribes and replicates a linear double-stranded DNA genome in the nucleus. We measured the abundance of viral transcripts using single-molecule RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and the incoming 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxycytidine (EdC)-tagged viral genomes using a copper(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (click) reaction. Surprisingly, expression of the immediate early gene E1A only moderately correlated with the number of viral genomes in the cell nucleus. Intranuclear genome-to-genome heterogeneity was found at the level of viral transcription and, in accordance, individual genomes exhibited heterogeneous replication activity. By analyzing the cell cycle state, we found that G1 cells exhibited the highest E1A gene expression and displayed increased correlation between E1A gene expression and viral genome copy numbers. The combined image-based single-molecule procedures described here are ideally suited to explore the cell-to-cell variability in viral gene expression in a range of different settings, including the innate immune response.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Postnatal development of diving physiology: implications of anthropogenic disturbance for immature marine mammals
Authors: Noren Shawn R.
Published: September 2020

Marine mammals endure extended breath-holds while performing active behaviors, which has fascinated scientists for over a century. It is now known that these animals have large onboard oxygen stores and utilize oxygen-conserving mechanisms to prolong aerobically supported dives to great depths, while typically avoiding (or tolerating) hypoxia, hypercarbia, acidosis and decompression sickness (DCS). Over the last few decades, research has revealed that diving physiology is underdeveloped at birth. Here, I review the postnatal development of the body's oxygen stores, cardiorespiratory system and other attributes of diving physiology for pinnipeds and cetaceans to assess how physiological immaturity makes young marine mammals vulnerable to disturbance. Generally, the duration required for body oxygen stores to mature varies across species in accordance with the maternal dependency period, which can be over 2 years long in some species. However, some Arctic and deep-diving species achieve mature oxygen stores comparatively early in life (prior to weaning). Accelerated development in these species supports survival during prolonged hypoxic periods when calves accompany their mothers under sea ice and to the bathypelagic zone, respectively. Studies on oxygen utilization patterns and heart rates while diving are limited, but the data indicate that immature marine mammals have a limited capacity to regulate heart rate (and hence oxygen utilization) during breath-hold. Underdeveloped diving physiology, in combination with small body size, limits diving and swimming performance. This makes immature marine mammals particularly vulnerable to mortality during periods of food limitation, habitat alterations associated with global climate change, fishery interactions and other anthropogenic disturbances, such as exposure to sonar.
Life stages differ in plasticity to temperature fluctuations and uniquely contribute to adult phenotype
Authors: Carter Amanda W. , Sheldon Kimberly S.
Published: September 2020

Adaptive thermal plasticity allows organisms to adjust their physiology to cope with fluctuating environments. However, thermal plasticity is rarely studied in response to thermal variability and is often measured in a single life stage. Plasticity in response to thermal variability likely differs from responses to constant temperatures or acute stress. In addition, life stages likely differ in their plasticity and responses in one stage may be affected by the experiences in a previous stage. Increasing the resolution with which we understand thermal plasticity in response to thermal variation across ontogeny is crucial to understanding how organisms cope with the thermal variation in their environment and to estimating the capacity of plasticity to mitigate costs of rapid environmental change. We wanted to know if life stages differ in their capacity for thermal plasticity under temperature fluctuations. We reared Onthophagus taurus dung beetles in either low or high temperature fluctuation treatments and quantified thermal plasticity of metabolism of pupae and adults. We found that adults were thermally plastic and pupae were not. Next, we wanted to know if the plasticity observed in the adult life stage was affected by the thermal conditions during development. We again used low and high temperature fluctuation treatments and reared individuals in one condition through all egg to pupal stages. At eclosion, we switched half of the individuals in each treatment to the opposite fluctuation condition and, later, measured thermal plasticity of metabolism on adults. We found that temperature conditions experienced during the adult stage, but not egg to pupal stages, affects adult thermal plasticity. However, temperature fluctuations during development affect adult body size, suggesting that some aspects of the adult phenotype are decoupled from previous life stages and others are not. Our data demonstrate that life stages mount different responses to temperature variability and uniquely contribute to the adult phenotype. These findings emphasize the need to broadly integrate the life cycle into studies of phenotypic plasticity and physiology; doing so should enhance our ability to predict organismal responses to rapid global change and inform conservation efforts.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) for pretreatment prediction of neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Guo Wei , Zhang Ya , Luo Dehong , Yuan Huishu
Published: September 2020

Objective:

The aim of this study was to predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer by dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI).

Methods:

A retrospective study enrolled 46 diagnosed locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer. DCE-MRI were performed prior to and after two cycles of NAC. The volume transfer constant (Ktrans), extracellular extravascular volume fraction (Ve), and plasma volume fraction (Kep) were computed from primary tumors. DCE-MRI parameters were used to measure tumor response according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria (RECIST).

Results：

After 2 NAC cycles, 30 out of 46 patients were categorized into the responder group, whereas the other 16 were categorized into non-responder group. Compared with the pretreatment value, the post-treatment Ktrans and Kep was significantly lower (P < 0.05), but no significant change in Ve (P > 0.05). Compared with non-responders, a notably higher pretreatment Ktrans, Kep, lower post-treatment Ktrans, higher ΔKtrans and ΔKep were observed in responders (all P < 0.05). While the pretreatment Ve, post-treatment Ve, and ΔVe did not differ significantly (P>0.05) between the two groups. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that pretreatment Ktrans of 0.202/min is the most optimal cut-off in predicting response to chemotherapy, resulting in an AUC of 0.837 and corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 76.7%, and 81.1%, respectively.

Conclusion:

DCE-MRI especially pretreatment Ktrans can potentially predict the treatment response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for hypopharyngeal cancer.

Advances in knowledge:

Few studies of DCE-MRI on hypopharyngeal cancer treated with chemoradiation reported. The results demonstrate that DCE-MRI especially pretreatment Ktrans may be more potential value in predicting the treatment response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for hypopharyngeal cancer.
Computed tomography appearances of the lung parenchyma in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Foley Robert W , Kaneria Nirav , Ross Rob V MacKenzie , Suntharalingam Jay , Hudson Benjamin J , Rodrigues Jonathan CL , Robinson Graham
Published: September 2020

Computed tomography (CT) is a valuable tool in the workup of patients under investigation for pulmonary hypertension (PH) and may be the first test to suggest the diagnosis. CT parenchymal lung changes can help to differentiate the aetiology of PH. CT can demonstrate interstitial lung disease, emphysema associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, features of left heart failure (including interstitial oedema), and changes secondary to miscellaneous conditions such as sarcoidosis. CT also demonstrates parenchymal changes secondary to chronic thromboembolic disease and venous diseases such as pulmonary venous occlusive disease (PVOD) and pulmonary capillary haemangiomatosis (PCH). It is important for the radiologist to be aware of the various manifestations of PH in the lung, to help facilitate an accurate and timely diagnosis. This pictorial review illustrates the parenchymal lung changes that can be seen in the various conditions causing PH.
Intraoperative marking of the tumour resection surface for improved radiation therapy planning in head and neck cancer: preclinical evaluation of a novel liquid fiducial marker
Authors: Steybe David , Russe Maximilian Frederik , Ludwig Ute , Sprave Tanja , Vach Kirstin , Semper-Hogg Wiebke , Schmelzeisen Rainer , Voss Pit Jacob , Poxleitner Philipp
Published: September 2020

Objective

To evaluate a novel liquid fiducial marker for intraoperative marking of the tumour resection surface in oral cancer patients to facilitate precise postoperative delineation of the interface between the tumour resection border and reconstructed tissue for intensity-modulated radiation therapy.

Methods

A total of 200 markers were created by injecting the volumes of 10 µl, 20 µl, 30 µl, 40 µl and 50 µl of a liquid marker composed of sucrose acetoisobutyrate (SAIB) and iodinated sucrose acetoisobutyrate (x-SAIB) into the soft tissue of porcine mandible segments. Visibility of the resulting markers was quantified by threshold-based segmentation of the marker volume in CT- and CBCT imaging and by a comparison of signal intensities in MRI.

Results

Even the lowest volume of SAIB-/x-SAIB investigated (10 µl) resulted in a higher visibility (CTSoft tissue: 88.18 ± 13.23 µl; CTBone: 49.55 ± 7.62 µl; CBCT: 54.65 ± 12.58 µl) than observed with the incorporation of titanium ligature clips (CTSoft tissue: 50.15 ± 7.50 mm3; CTBone: 23.90 ± 3.39 mm3; CBCT: 33.80 ± 9.20 mm3). Markers created by the injection of 10 µl and 20 µl could reliably be delineated from markers created by the injection of higher volumes.

Conclusion

SAIB/x-SAIB, which has recently become available as a Conformité Européenne (CE)-marked fiducial marker, provides an option for fast and reliable production of markers with excellent visibility in imaging modalities used in oral cancer radiation therapy (RT) planning routine.
Ερευνητικές προτάσεις και συμμετοχή σε Ευρωπαϊκά καινοτόμα προγράμματα μέσα από τη ματιά εμπειρογνωμόνων ηθικής και δεοντολογίας
Authors: Fanaras (Βασίλειος Φανάρας) Vasilios , Mollaki (Βασιλική Μολλάκη) Vasiliki
Published: September 2020

Funding of research proposals by the European Commission (EC) requires not only scientificex cellence and innovation, but also ethical conduct of research. For this reason, the EC performs ethicsreview for all the research proposals that are going to be funded, in order to check compliance with theethics principles of research, as well as the Eu ropean and National laws, in the countries where research isconducted. The aim of the present manuscript is to raise awareness and familiarize researchers with theethics review of research proposals, as conducted in the EC, through the eyes of two ethics experts.Firstly, the stages of the ethics review process are described, which is performed with the assistanceof independent ethics experts. The criteria which are provided and monitored by the Ethics and ResearchIntegrity Sector in the EC are then pr esented in detail. Based on these criteria, the possible outcomes of anethics review are analyzed, which may include the formation of specific requirements that need to befulfilled by the researchers. Specific reference is made to the requirements that m ay result when aresearch proposal involves collection, processing and storage of personal data according to the GeneralData Protection Regulation 2016/679, because this Regulation entered into force recently in the ethicsreview.Finally, reference is m ade to the importance of ensuring integrity in research thought the ethicsreview process, and the necessary compliance with the ethics standards of EC funded research.
The direct-medical costs associated with interferon-based treatment for Hepatitis C in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Huyen Anh , Cooke Graham S. , Day Jeremy N. , Flower Barnaby , Phuong Le Thanh , Hung Trinh Manh , Dung Nguyen Thanh , Khoa Dao Bach , Hung Le Manh , Kestelyn Evelyne , Thwaites Guy E. , Chau Nguyen Van Vinh ,   SEARCH Investigators, Turner Hugo C.
Published: September 2020

Background: Injectable interferon-based therapies have been used to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection since 1991. International guidelines have now moved away from interferon-based therapy towards direct-acting antiviral (DAA) tablet regimens, because of their superior efficacy, excellent side-effect profiles, and ease of administration. Initially DAA drugs were prohibitively expensive for most healthcare systems. Access is now improving through the procurement of low-cost, generic DAAs acquired through voluntary licenses. However, HCV treatment costs vary widely, and many countries are struggling with DAA treatment scale-up. This is not helped by the limited cost data and economic evaluations from low- and middle-income countries to support HCV policy decisions. We conducted a detailed analysis of the costs of treating chronic HCV infection with interferon-based therapy in Vietnam. Understanding these costs is important for performing necessary economic evaluations of novel treatment strategies.

Methods: We conducted an analysis of the direct medical costs of treating HCV infection with interferon alpha (IFN) and pegylated-interferon alpha (Peg-IFN), in combination with ribavirin, from the health sector perspective at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in 2017.

Results: The total cost of the IFN treatment regimen was estimated to range between US$1,120 and US$1,962. The total cost of the Peg-IFN treatment regimen was between US$2,156 and US$5,887. Drug expenses were the biggest contributor to the total treatment cost (54-89%) and were much higher for the Peg-IFN regimen.

Conclusions: We found that treating HCV with IFN or Peg-IFN resulted in significant direct medical costs. Of concern, we found that all patients incurred substantial out-of-pocket costs, including those receiving the maximum level of support from the national health insurance programme. This cost data highlights the potential savings and importance of increased access to generic DAAs in low- and middle-income countries and will be useful within future economic evaluations.
Systematic Use and Structural-Semantic Changes of Language Units in Modern Communicative Practices
Authors: Shaposhnikov V.
Published: September 2020

The article is devoted to analysis of the functioning and evolution of the lexical units. The language using is expanding and sum total of speaking and understanding in present epoch of society life. In motion of language society communication the continual comparison and mutual likening of the individual lexicons is happening. The semantics and structural characteristics of the words are analyzed. The words which begin to be used with other meanings are identified. There is reinterpreting and rethinking of the words on the basis of an oblivion or ignorance of the codified meanings. The frequency of the transformed significance facts increases in every-day speech. There aren`t the synonyms of the certain concepts. Such forming uses are the doubles of existing words. The language is characterized by the degrees of spreading and massiveness new phenomena and the belonging to communicative need of language society.
On Preparing Military Students for Intercultural Interaction in Professional Sphere
Authors: Belova E.
Published: September 2020

The article discusses the relevance of preparing cadets of a military institution for intercultural interaction in professional sphere. On the base of competency-based and integrative methodological approaches, the author considers the impact of preparing cadets for intercultural interaction on the quality of future officers’ professional training in general. In foreign language classes, the problematic method is actively used, which, in the conditions of strictly regulated subordination of a military institution, helps to create an atmosphere for communication, the emancipation of students, the manifestation of creativity, the urge to express themselves and develop, the ability to negotiate. The author concludes that teaching a foreign language contributes to the professional and personal development of future officers, raising their level of readiness for intercultural interaction in professional sphere, which is especially important for participating in peacekeeping operations in various countries.
Formation of Professional Communication in Basketball Students
Authors: Makeeva V. , Sun' Mincze , Chernov S.
Published: September 2020

Features of the restructuring of the communication of students involved in basketball during the transition to professional activity are revealed. We consider the disadvantages of communication at the initial stage, manifested in the absence of tolerance, the ability to defend their views and interests, the lack of development of emotional manifestations in communication. In the process of pedagogical influence at the first stage, the student approaches the development of the characteristics of his personality (I-I) and the knowledge of himself, his abilities, with the transition from (I-I) to I-Other in solving common interests and problems; at the second stage, attention is directed to the collective analytical solution of problems, intra-group communication in the I – Collective, I – Team ligaments; at the third stage, the personality-reflective nature of communication was defined as experience that can be implemented in practice. The pedagogical impact of the I-I, I-Other, I-Team (sports team) allowed us to get a number of positive changes necessary for the successful start of a professional career.
The Department Site as a Means of Professional Communocation in the Information Educational Environment of a Military Academy
Authors: Yushina T. , Chernyavskaya E. , Kostikova L.
Published: September 2020

The article considers developing the department's website as a means of professional communication in the unified information educational environment of a military academy. The structure of the site contains all the elements that reflect the activities of the department staff. The site displays educational, methodological, scientific and educational activities of the department, provides information about the teaching staff, and reveals the features of professional training. The information content of the site has such important characteristics as information content, accessibility, reliability and objectivity of published materials, and efficiency. The composition of the information structure of the department's website allows to increase the effectiveness of all areas of the department's activities, to analyze scientific, methodological and educational ties, to increase the professional motivation of the teaching staff. The website of the department contains up-to-date information that allows to streamline the process of professional communication in a military academy.
Preference Learning and Demand Forecast
Authors: Cao Xinyu , Zhang Juanjuan
Published: September 2020

This paper develops a theory-based, cost-effective method to forecast actual product demand using inexpensive choice experiment data.
Waiting for the Payday? The Market for Startups and the Timing of Entrepreneurial Exit
Authors: Arora Ashish , Fosfuri Andrea , Rønde Thomas
Published: September 2020

Most technology startups are set up for exit through acquisition by large corporations. In choosing when to sell, startups face a trade-off. Early acquisition reduces execution errors, but later acquisition both improves the likelihood of finding a better match and benefits from increased buyer competition. Startups’ exit strategies vary considerably: Some startups aim to sell early; others remain in stealth mode by developing the invention for a late sale. We develop an analytical model to study the timing of the exit strategy. We find that startups with more capable founding teams commit to a late exit, whereas those with less capable founding teams commit to an early exit. Finally, startups with founding teams of intermediate capabilities remain flexible: They seek early offers but eventually sell late. If trying the early market is so costly that startups have to make a mutually exclusive choice between an early and late sale, startups sell inefficiently late. Instead, if they can collect early offers at no cost before deciding on the timing of sale, there are too many early acquisitions.

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, business strategy.
Mechanism Design for Managing Hidden Rebates and Inflated Quotes of a Procurement Service Provider
Authors: Fan Xiaoshuai , Chen Ying-Ju , Tang Christopher S.
Published: September 2020

Problem definition : When sourcing through a procurement service provider (PSP), the PSP often collects rebates from unethical manufacturers in developing countries (as referral fees) that are “hidden” from the retailers. Recognizing that a PSP has a strong incentive to solicit quotes from unethical manufacturers, we examine a situation in which the retailer insists on soliciting a quote from a manufacturer designated by the retailer and a separate quote from an unethical manufacturer selected by the PSP. However, when the designated manufacturer is ethical, the PSP has an incentive to inflate the quote from this ethical manufacturer in order to help the unethical manufacturer to win. Facing this situation, is there a mechanism for the retailer to control hidden rebates? Academic/practical relevance : The issue of hidden rebates is a “known secret” in global supply chain practice. Also, hidden rebates increase the customs duty for U.S. importers because of the first sales rule for customs valuation of U.S. imports. Therefore, there is a need to understand the implications of hidden rebates and to control this unethical practice. Methodology : To circumvent the issue of hidden rebates and quote inflations, we develop a deterministic, incentive-compatible mechanism that is based on a simple selection rule (for selecting a manufacturer) and a contingent service fee (as a reward for the service provided by the PSP). Results : Our optimal mechanism creates incentives to (1) deter the PSP from inflating the quote submitted from the ethical manufacturer, (2) reduce the incidence of hidden rebates, and (3) reduce the retailer’s procurement cost and the corresponding import tax significantly. More importantly, relative to the “lowest quote wins” selection rule, the optimal mechanism is Pareto-improving for the retailer and the service provider when the hidden rebate is below a certain threshold. Furthermore, we extend our analysis to the case in which (1) the retailer is not sure whether the designated manufacturer is ethical or not, (2) the retailer does not know the exact value of hidden rebate (but it follows a two-point distribution), and (3) the retailer may verify the quote with its designated manufacturer before a formal contract. We also explore the stochastic incentive-compatible mechanism for the cases in which the penalty is unenforceable or enforceable. Managerial implications : When law enforcement is inconsistent in developing countries, retailers should beware of the existence and implications of hidden rebates. We provide a simple mechanism that a retailer can consider as a practical way to deter the PSP from inflating certain quotes and put hidden rebates under control.
Optimistic Monte Carlo Tree Search with Sampled Information Relaxation Dual Bounds
Authors: Jiang Daniel R. , Al-Kanj Lina , Powell Warren B.
Published: September 2020

In the paper, “Optimistic Monte Carlo Tree Search with Sampled Information Relaxation Dual Bounds,” the authors propose an extension to Monte Carlo tree search that uses the idea of “sampling the future” to produce noisy upper bounds on nodes in the decision tree. These upper bounds can help guide the tree expansion process and produce decision trees that are deeper rather than wider, in effect concentrating computation toward more useful parts of the state space. The algorithm’s effectiveness is illustrated in a ride-sharing setting, where a driver/vehicle needs to make dynamic decisions regarding trip acceptance and relocations.
Generalized Stable User Matching for Autonomous Vehicle Co-Ownership Programs
Authors: Zhang Anpeng , Kang Jee Eun , Kwon Changhyun
Published: September 2020

We investigate a new form of car-sharing system that can be introduced in the market for autonomous vehicles called fractional ownership or co-ownership. Although dynamic ride sharing provides ad hoc shared mobility services without any long-term commitment, we consider co-ownership programs with which users can still “own” a car with committed usage and ownership. We assume that an autonomous vehicle is shared by a group of users, which is only accessible by the group. We use stable matching to help users find an appropriate group with which to share an autonomous vehicle and present a generalized stable matching model that allows flexible sizes of groups as well as various alternative objectives. We also present a heuristic algorithm to improve computational time owing to the combinatorial properties of the problem.
Cattle Review
Authors: Barrett David C
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

In this Cattle Review we consider three recent papers each of which explore an aspect of on-farm management and its effect on antimicrobial usage (AMU), animal health and productivity.
CPD article: Radiographic interpretation of the navicular bone: a review
Authors: Hinkle Frances , Barrett Myra
Published: September 2020

Navicular syndrome (navicular disease) plays a major role in the equine industry as a chronic, degenerative, and often career-limiting disease process, affecting a variety of breeds of horses. In addition to clinical signs and diagnostic analgesia, diagnostic imaging plays a key role in the identification of this disease process; radiography is the most widely used imaging modality. In addition to their clinical utility, foot radiographs are a standard element of most pre-purchase examinations. Good radiographic quality and positioning are necessary for accurate interpretation. Radiographic lesions of the navicular bone, such as sclerosis, enlarged synovial invaginations, distal border fragments and flexor cortical erosions, are important to identify and understand because of their potential role in the disease process. This article reviews an approach to radiological evaluation and interpretation of lesions affecting the navicular bone.
MINING RESIDUE IN THE COMMERCIAL LIMESTONE BLENDING AND THE CHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES OF A LATOSOL
Authors: Vidal de Negreiros Neto João , Ribeiro da Silva Rubens , Araujo de Freitas Gilson , Franciely Machado Angela , Clementino dos Santos Antônio
Published: September 2020

The limestone mining activity causes environmental impacts due to the generation of waste. However, the reuse of these residues has been investigated with the objective of improving soil fertility and acidity correction. The objective of this work was to evaluate the potential for using mining residues in the commercial limestone blending and in the chemical attributes of a dystrophic Red Yellow Latosol. The experiment was carried out in three steps: the first corresponded to the sampling and characterization of the residues in the tailings pile; the second was the combination and characterization of the new soil acidity correction agents as well as the selection of treatments based on the Neutralization Power and doses of soil acidity correction agetns (0.0; 0.5; 1.0; 2.0; 4.0 t ha-1); in the third step, a test of the incubation and calibration of the application doses of the soil acidity correction agents was performed. It was found that even with the raise in the levels of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in the correction agents, it was not possible to provide an optimal supply of nutrients to the soil, a fact explained by the low constant solubility of CaCO3 and MgCO3. However, the commercial limestone blending with tailing was efficient, as it had a significant effect on raising the pH and neutralizing the soil moisture potential.
High Internal Quantum Efficiency from AlGaN-delta-GaN Quantum Well at 260 nm
Authors: Liu Cheng , Lee Kevin , Harden Galen , Hoffman Anthony , Xing Huili (Grace) , Jena Debdeep , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2020

High internal quantum efficiency (85%) was realized from the AlGaN-delta-GaN quantum well (QW) structure grown on a conventional AlN/sapphire template by Molecular Beam Epitaxy. The peak emission wavelength is observed at 260 nm.
Green Light-Emitting Diodes with 667 MHz Modulation Bandwidth for Visible Light Communication
Authors: Hsu Yu-Chien , Chen Sung-Wen Huang , Liou Fang-Jyun , Song Jie , Choi Joowon , Han Jung , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: September 2020

High-quality semipolar GaN is crucial in realizing high-performance optoelectronic devices and overcome quantum confined Stark effect. The green light VLC-LED achieves 667 MHz bandwidth due to a high quality and stacking-faults free semipolar epitaxial method.
Ultrahigh Spatial Resolution of Mid-Infrared Optical Excitations with Monochromated Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy
Authors: Hachtel Jordan A. , Konečná Andrea , Roccapriore Kevin M. , Cho Shin Hum , Milliron Delia J. , de Abajo F. Javier Garcia , Idrobo Juan Carlos
Published: September 2020

Monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) can now reach the mid-infrared spectral regime in the electron microscope. Here, we use monochromated EELS to examine geometry and coupling effects for infrared excitations in complex nanostructures.
Multi-Pulse Sampling Dual-Comb Interferometer
Authors: Zhou Siyu , Ni Kai , Zhou Qian , Wu Guanhao
Published: September 2020

We present a multi-pulse sampling dual-comb interferometer that realizes the multiplication of cross-correlation interferograms and improves the ranging precision. The experimental results demonstrate that a precision of 3.1nm is obtained with 15ms averaging time.
Design of 2D Optical Phased Array Emitters with Half-wavelength Spacing and Less Than -20 dB Crosstalk
Authors: Kong Ziyun , Lee Yun Jo , Noman Abdullah Al , Tang Yingheng , Chang Gregory , Qi Minghao
Published: September 2020

We propose a multi-layered, 2D optical phased array capable of 180°× 180° beam steering range without wavelength tuning. Evanescent coupling between half-wavelength spaced waveguides is suppressed below –20 dB through index-mismatch and extreme skin-depth metamaterial waveguides.
Black TiO2 on nanoporous substrates for improved solar vapor generation
Authors: Liu Youhai , Song Haomin , Singer Matthew H. , Zhou Lyu , Zhang Nan , Bei Zongmin , Gan Qiaoqiang
Published: September 2020

We report a black TiO2 on nanoporous anodic alumina oxide (AAO) architecture for improved solar vapor generation. The efficiency reached 85.3% under one sun illumination, corresponding to a vapor generation rate of 1.29 kg/(m2·h).
Ultra-sensitive ultrasonic sensor based on microfiber
Authors: Yang Liuyang , Li Yanpeng , Fang Fang , Li Liangye , Sun Qizhen
Published: September 2020

An ultra-sensitive optical microfiber ultrasonic sensor is proposed and demonstrated. The noise equivalent pressure length product of this sensor is 1.71kPa mm, which gives a 53 times improvement compared with standard single-mode fiber.
Application of Silicon Ring Resonators towards Cryogenic Sensing
Authors: You Minmin , Liu Jingquan
Published: September 2020

By utilizing a new method of package, a silicon ring resonator was successfully applied to cryogenic sensing. And it was experimentally demonstrated to have a linear sensitivity of 64.8 pm/K from 180 K to 300 K.
3D reconstruction for volumetric two-photon microscopy using dual Airy beam
Authors: Chan Ka Yan , He Hongsen , Ren Yu-Xuan , Lai Cora S. W. , Wong Kenneth K Y.
Published: September 2020

We present a 3D reconstruction algorithm for the dual Airy beam scanning in volumetric two-photon microscopy. Lateral and axial positions of objects within the axial length of Airy beam can be accurately reconstructed.
Waveguide-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Detection of Vapor Phase Threat Chemicals with Compact Raman Spectrometers
Authors: Emmons E. D. , Wilcox P. G. , Guicheteau J. A. , Tyndall N. F. , Kozak D.A. , Pruessner M.W. , Roberts C. A. , McGill R. A. , Stievater T. H. , Miller B. L. , Luta E.P. , Yates M. Z.
Published: September 2020

We have demonstrated waveguide-enhanced Raman spectroscopy using compact Raman spectrometers for handheld detectors of vapor phase threat materials. Polymer sorbents are used to concentrate the vapors in the evanescent field of the waveguide.
Cavity-Enhanced Measurements of Benzene for Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Mhanna Mhanna , Zhang Guangle , Kunnummal Noushad , Farooq Aamir
Published: September 2020

A laser sensor is developed for trace detection of benzene. It is based on a DFB-ICL near 3.3 pm and off-axis cavity-enhanced absorption, enabling minimum detection of 2 ppb for 6-second integration at room conditions.
Thin Patch Type Tissue Oximeter with Deep Light Penetration Depth by Integrating Micro Lens Array (MLA)
Authors: Kang Min Hyung , Lee Gil Ju , Lee Joong Hoon , Kim Hyun Myung , Kim Min Seok , Jang Hyuk Jae , Song Young Min
Published: September 2020

We present a thin patch type tissue oximeter that consists of a microscale light-emitting diode, photodetector, wireless powering module and Micro Lens Array (MLA). The MLA with optimized geometry significantly improves the light penetration depth.
Photonic Quantum Computing
Authors: Thompson Mark G.
Published: September 2020

Quantum computing is set to revolutionize information technologies. In this talk I will outline the photonics approach to quantum computing, introducing the silicon photonic quantum circuit and highlighting approaches to manufacturability and scalability.
Multiharmonic Imaging of Human Peripheral Nerves using a 1300 nm Ultrafast Fiber Laser
Authors: Rishaj Lars , Hernández Iván Coto , Jowett Nate , Ramachandran Siddharth
Published: September 2020

We demonstrate multicolor multiphoton imaging of label-free human peripheral nerve samples. This is realized using a high peak power (1 MW) custom built fiber source that delivers ultrashort pulses (74-fs) at 1300 nm.