bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting the Accuracy of Estimation of BEV Cruising Range
Authors: Zhicheng Sun , Boya Zhou , Tianlu Dai , Qingyu Meng , Zhichao Liu , Yaozong Xu , Su Li
Published: January 2020

As the number of electric vehicles is increasing year by year, the accuracy of electric vehicle cruising range estimation in high and low temperature environments is one of the performances that consumers are very concerned about. In this paper, the accuracy of cruising range estimation is evaluated by the determination of coefficient, and the influence of ambient temperature on the estimation accuracy of cruising range is deeply studied. Eleven electric vehicles were selected to carry out the cruising range test at normal temperature, high temperature and low temperature respectively, and the influence law at ambient temperature of the accuracy of cruising range estimation was obtained. At the same time, the influence of the self-learning function on the accuracy of the cruising range estimation is also studied. Finally, the performance of the estimation of accuracy of the end mileage at different ambient temperatures is analyzed.
Optoelectronic and photonic devices based on transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Thakar Kartikey , Lodha Saurabh
Published: January 2020

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are a family of two-dimensional layered materials (2DLMs) with extraordinary optical properties. They present an attractive option for future multi-functional and high-performance optoelectronics. However, much remains to be done to realize a mature technology for commercial applications. In this review article, we describe the progress and scope of TMDC devices in optical and photonic applications. Various photoresponse mechanisms observed in such devices and a brief discussion on measurement and analysis methods are described. Three main types of optoelectronic devices, namely photodetectors, photovoltaics and light-emitting devices are discussed in detail with a focus on device architecture and operation. Examples showing experimental integration of 2DLM-based devices with silicon photonics are also discussed briefly. A wide range of data for key performance metrics is analysed with insights into future directions for device design, processing and characterization that can help overcome present gaps and challenges.
Effect of pH on visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of facile synthesized bismuth vanadate nanoparticles
Authors: Josephine A Juliat , Ravi Dhas C , Venkatesh R , Arivukarasan D , Jennifer Christy A , Esther Santhoshi Monica S , Keerthana S
Published: January 2020

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) nanoparticles were synthesized by a simple co-precipitation method for different pH conditions (9, 10 and 11). The XRD patterns revealed that the synthesized nanoparticles belong to monoclinic single-phase BiVO4 which was again confirmed from Raman studies. The chemical state of the elements in BiVO4 and surface morphology were investigated using XPS and SEM analysis respectively. The optical absorption and PL studies revealed wide absorption in the visible region with strong emission at 520 nm. The efficiency of the samples was examined from the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B dye.
Reduced impedance in dual substituted strontium cobaltite nanoparticles for renewable energy applications
Authors: Akhtar Tanveer , Anis-ur-Rehman M
Published: January 2020

Sr1−xBaxCo1−xFexO3−δ
(BSCF) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized with three modified wet chemical techniques; composite mediated hydrothermal method (CMHM), without water and surfactants (WOWS) sol-gel and co-precipitation methods. The probable electrical conduction mechanism of synthesized BSCF was explored via complex impedance analysis. Various physicochemical characterization techniques were employed to study the dependence of structure, homogeneity, physical parameters and electrical properties of BSCF on synthesis procedures. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of cubic BSCF perovskite structure. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra indicated the presence of the fingerprint region of perovskite (ABO3−δ
) structure. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images revealed uniformly diffused, micro porous and agglomerated morphology. Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetry (TGA) verified the formation of intermediate metal carbonates that were decomposed to the final product. Nyquist plots against frequency (20 Hz–3 MHz) revealed single semi-circular arcs. The arc showed significant grain boundary contribution to total electrical conduction behaviour of BSCF material synthesized by CMHM and co-precipitation methods. Modulus analysis showed the Debye type conductivity relaxation in CMHM synthesized material. The AC conductivity graphs followed Jonscher’s power law. Temperature dependent (RT to 600 °C; 10 kHz) impedances showed decreasing trend that was an indication of thermally activated conduction process. A Correlation was established among structural and electrical conduction properties. Hydrothermally synthesized BSCF samples exhibited minimum impedances and maximum AC conductivity, which makes them a potential candidate for cathode material in (IT-SOFCs) applications.
MWCNT induced negative real permittivity in a copolyester of Bisphenol-A with terephthalic and isophthalic acids
Authors: Özdemir Zeynep Güven , Daşdan Dolunay Şakar , Kavak Pelin , Pionteck Jürgen , Pötschke Petra , Voit Brigitte , Mısırlıoğlu Banu Süngü
Published: January 2020

In the present study, the negative real permittivity behavior of a copolyester of bisphenol-A with terephthalic acid and isophthalic acid (PAr) containing 1.5 to 7.5 wt% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been investigated in detail. The structural and morphological analysis of the melt-mixed composites was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy using attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and light microscopy. The influences of the MWCNT filler on the AC impedance, complex permittivity, and AC conductivity of the PAr polymer matrix were investigated at different operating temperatures varied between 296 K and 373 K. The transition from a negative to positive real permittivity was observed at different crossover frequencies depending on the MWCNT content of the composites whereas pure PAr showed positive values at all frequencies. The negative real permittivity characteristic of the composites was discussed in the context of Drude model.
45% efficiency enhancement of ZnO nanorod bulk-heterojunction solar cells by PbS QDs
Authors: Mehrabian Masood , Afshar Elham Norouzi , Mirzapoor Elham
Published: January 2020

Absorption of near-infrared (NIR) photons of solar energy which includes the ~40% of the sunlight energy is an effective approach to improve the photovoltaic performance of solar cells. In the present study, we have investigated PbS quantum dots (QDs) with different numbers of synthesis cycles (n) were introduced to ZnO nanorods (ZNRs) bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells. Our analysis revealed improving the power conversion efficiency (PCE) by absorbing the light in the visible and near-infrared regions. The Light absorption of solar cells was enhanced by PbS QDs which led to an increase in the photocurrent. With increasing (n), the PCE increases at first, then it decreases because of the attenuation of possible facilitation of exciton dissociation. For this reason, the number of cycles was optimized. As a result,byoptimizing the numbers of synthesis cycles (n), the PCE of PbS QD sensitized ZNR bulk heterojunction solar cells were improved from 2.76% to 4.01% by 1.45 times.
Alcohol consumption in later life and reaching longevity: the Netherlands Cohort Study
Authors: van den Brandt Piet A , Brandts Lloyd
Published: January 2020

Background

whether light-to-moderate alcohol intake is related to reduced mortality remains a subject of intense research and controversy. There are very few studies available on alcohol and reaching longevity.

Methods

we investigated the relationship of alcohol drinking characteristics with the probability to reach 90 years of age. Analyses were conducted using data from the Netherlands Cohort Study. Participants born in 1916–1917 (n = 7,807) completed a questionnaire in 1986 (age 68–70 years) and were followed up for vital status until the age of 90 years (2006–07). Multivariable Cox regression analyses with fixed follow-up time were based on 5,479 participants with complete data to calculate risk ratios (RRs) of reaching longevity (age 90 years).

Results

we found statistically significant positive associations between baseline alcohol intake and the probability of reaching 90 years in both men and women. Overall, the highest probability of reaching 90 was found in those consuming 5– < 15 g/d alcohol, with RR = 1.36 (95% CI, 1.20–1.55) when compared with abstainers. The exposure-response relationship was significantly non-linear in women, but not in men. Wine intake was positively associated with longevity (notably in women), whereas liquor was positively associated with longevity in men and inversely in women. Binge drinking pointed towards an inverse relationship with longevity. Alcohol intake was associated with longevity in those without and with a history of selected diseases.

Conclusions

the highest probability of reaching 90 years was found for those drinking 5– < 15 g alcohol/day. Although not significant, the risk estimates also indicate to avoid binge drinking.
Fat Grafting to Improve Results of Facelift: Systematic Review of Safety and Effectiveness of Current Treatment Paradigms
Authors: Molina-Burbano Felipe , Smith J Michael , Ingargiola Michael J , Motakef Saba , Sanati Paymon , Lu Jocelyn , Taub Peter J , Hill Michael E
Published: January 2020

Background

Autologous fat grafting is a helpful supplement to facelift surgery that helps to combat age-related volume loss of facial structures. Despite the widespread prevalence of combined facelift and fat-grafting, significant procedural variation exists between providers.

Objectives

The primary purpose of this systematic review was to study the efficacy and complication rates of facelift with lipofilling compared with facelift alone.

Methods

A systematic review of the Cochrane Library and MEDLINE databases as completed was undertaken to identify all clinical reports of fat grafting combined with facelift surgery based on the following key terms: (“fat grafting” OR “lipotransfer” OR “lipofilling” OR “fat transfer”) AND (“facelift” OR “rhytidectomy” OR “SMASectomy” OR “facial rejuvenation”). Data on techniques, outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction were collected.

Results

The systematic review was performed in April 2017. In total, 248 articles were identified for review. After application of exclusion criteria, 15 primary studies were included in this review. Various facelift techniques were reported, including deep-plane or sub–superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) facelift, SMAS facelift, modified minimal access cranial suspension lift, component facelift, midface lift, SMAS plication, SMAS-stacking/SMASectomy, and SMASectomy. The most common locations of fat graft injection included the nasolabial folds, tear troughs, temporal regions, midface/cheek/malar eminence, marionette groove, lips, and ear lobes. The addition of fat grafting to facelift surgery resulted in significant improvements in facial volume and aesthetic assessments.

Conclusions

Combined facelift and fat grafting is a safe and efficacious means to simultaneously address age-related ptosis and volume loss. Further research is required to validate and improve existing treatment modalities.

Level of Evidence: 3
LigRMSD: a web server for automatic structure matching and RMSD calculations among identical and similar compounds in protein-ligand docking
Authors: Velázquez-Libera José Luis , Durán-Verdugo Fabio , Valdés-Jiménez Alejandro , Núñez-Vivanco Gabriel , Caballero Julio
Published: January 2020

Motivation

Root mean square deviation (RMSD) is one of the most useful and straightforward features for structural comparison between different conformations of the same molecule. Commonly, protein-ligand docking programs have included some utilities that allow the calculation of this value; however, they only work efficiently when exists a complete atom label equivalence between the evaluated conformations.

Results

We present LigRMSD, a free web-server for the automatic matching and RMSD calculations among identical or similar chemical compounds. This server allows the user to submit only a pair of identical or similar molecules or dataset of similar compounds to compare their three-dimensional conformations.

Availability and implementation

LigRMSD can be freely accessed at https://ligrmsd.appsbio.utalca.cl.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Open descending aortic replacement in a patient with a fractured Djumbodis™ dissection system
Authors: Fujikawa Takuya , Chow Simon C Y , Chang Aliss T C , Wong Randolph H L
Published: January 2020

The Djumbodis™ dissection system was introduced as an alternative to aortic arch replacement in acute type A aortic dissection involving the arch. In our own experience, some patients with Djumbodis implantation developed distal aortic arch and descending aortic aneurysm during subsequent follow-up and required additional interventions. However, as there is a high incidence of fracture associated with the Djumbodis system, further endovascular interventions are not feasible. We report a case of successful open descending aortic replacement in a patient with a fractured Djumbodis stent system.
Skeletal Muscle Energetics and Mitochondrial Function Are Impaired Following 10 Days of Bed Rest in Older Adults
Authors: Standley Robert A , Distefano Giovanna , Trevino Michelle B , Chen Emily , Narain Niven R , Greenwood Bennett , Kondakci Gramoz , Tolstikov Vladimir V , Kiebish Michael A , Yu Gongxin , Qi Feng , Kelly Daniel P , Vega Rick B , Coen Paul M , Goodpaster Bret H
Published: January 2020

Background

Older adults exposed to periods of inactivity during hospitalization, illness, or injury lose muscle mass and strength. This, in turn, predisposes poor recovery of physical function upon reambulation and represents a significant health risk for older adults. Bed rest (BR) results in altered skeletal muscle fuel metabolism and loss of oxidative capacity that have recently been linked to the muscle atrophy program. Our primary objective was to explore the effects of BR on mitochondrial energetics in muscle from older adults. A secondary objective was to examine the effect of β-hydroxy-β-methylbuturate (HMB) supplementation on mitochondrial energetics.

Methods

We studied 20 older adults before and after a 10-day BR intervention, who consumed a complete oral nutritional supplement (ONS) with HMB (3.0 g/d HMB, n = 11) or without HMB (CON, n = 9). Percutaneous biopsies of the vastus lateralis were obtained to determine mitochondrial respiration and H2O2 emission in permeabilized muscle fibers along with markers of content. RNA sequencing and lipidomics analyses were also conducted.

Results

We found a significant up-regulation of collagen synthesis and down-regulation of ribosome, oxidative metabolism and mitochondrial gene transcripts following BR in the CON group. Alterations to these gene transcripts were significantly blunted in the HMB group. Mitochondrial respiration and markers of content were both reduced and H2O2 emission was elevated in both groups following BR.

Conclusions

In summary, 10 days of BR in older adults causes a significant deterioration in mitochondrial energetics, while transcriptomic profiling revealed that some of these negative effects may be attenuated by an ONS containing HMB.
Factors Associated With Insidious and Noninsidious Disability
Authors: Gill Thomas M , Murphy Terrence E , Gahbauer Evelyne A , Leo-Summers Linda , Han Ling
Published: January 2020

Background

Although disability is often precipitated by an illness/injury, it may arise insidiously. Our objectives were to identify the factors associated with the development of insidious and noninsidious disability and to determine whether these risk factors differ between the two types of disability.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated 754 community-living persons, 70+ years, from 1998 to 2016. The unit of analysis was an 18-month person-interval, with risk factors assessed at the start of each interval. Disability in four activities of daily living and exposure to intervening events, defined as illnesses/injuries leading to hospitalization, emergency department visits, or restricted activity, were assessed each month. Insidious and noninsidious disability were defined based on the absence and presence of an intervening event.

Results

The rate of noninsidious disability (21.7%) was twice that of insidious disability (10.8%). In multivariable recurrent-event Cox analyses, six factors were associated with both disability outcomes: non-Hispanic white race, lower extremity muscle weakness, poor manual dexterity, and (most strongly) frailty, cognitive impairment, and low functional self-efficacy. Three factors were associated with only noninsidious disability (older age, number of chronic conditions, and depressive symptoms), whereas four were associated with only insidious disability (female sex, lives with others, low SPPB score, and upper extremity weakness). The modest differences in risk factors identified for the two outcomes in multivariable analyses were less apparent in the bivariate analyses.

Conclusions

Although arising from different mechanisms, insidious and noninsidious disability share a similar set of risk factors. Interventions to prevent disability should prioritize this shared set of risk factors.
Vertical force scaling in seismic source models of underground nuclear explosions
Authors: Howe Michael , Ekström Göran , Richards Paul G
Published: January 2020

We have reanalysed observations of body waves and surface waves for 71 well-recorded underground nuclear explosions (UNEs) that were conducted between 1977 and 1989 at the Balapan subregion of the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Kazakhstan. To reconcile differences between body-wave and surface-wave amplitudes, we solve for a scaling factor between vertical and horizontal forces in the explosion model. We find that the estimated scaling factor is anticorrelated with the scaled depth of burial for the subset of UNEs at Balapan that have published depths. The observed anticorrelation and the inferred variations in force scaling suggest that recorded surface-wave amplitudes are significantly influenced by UNE burial depth as well as by previously recognized tectonic release. As part of our analysis, we revisit the relationship between teleseismic mb(P) and yield for UNEs at Balapan, and discuss the physical basis for effectiveness of the mb–MS discriminant.
Successful Treatment of Oral Crohn’s Disease by Ustekinumab
Authors: Jukema Jelmer B , Brandse Johannan F , de Boer Nanne K H
Published: January 2020

We report on a Crohn’s disease patient with severe dysphagia and malnutrion due to Crohn’s-related cheilitis and tonsillitis that was refractory to steroids, anti-TNF, and anti-integrin therapy but was successfully treated with ustekinumab.
Derivation and Internal Validation of a Clinical Prediction Tool to Predict Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Patients With Crohn’s Disease
Authors: McHenry Scott , Tirath Ankita , Tsai Richard , Sharma Yeshika , Flores Avegail G , Davidson Nicholas O , Fowler Kathryn J , Ciorba Matthew A , Deepak Parakkal
Published: January 2020

Background

Crohn’s disease (CD) patients have more than double the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) compared with the general population after considering traditional risk factors. NAFLD remains underappreciated because routine imaging and liver biochemistries are neither sensitive nor specific for the diagnosis. Here we developed a Clinical Prediction Tool for NAFLD in CD (CPN-CD) using readily accessible parameters to diagnose NAFLD, as determined by magnetic resonance proton density fat fraction (PDFF).

Methods

A total of 311 consecutive CD patients who underwent magnetic resonance enterography from June 1, 2017, to May 31, 2018, were screened for NAFLD, defined as a PDFF >5.5% after excluding other liver diagnoses. CPN-CD was derived using binary multivariate logistic regression and internally validated with a 10-fold cross-validation. CPN-CD was compared with the Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI) by the C-statistic and categorical Net Reclassification Improvement (NRI).

Results

CPN-CD included age, sex, ethnicity/race, serum alanine aminotransferase, body mass index, known cardiometabolic diagnoses, CD duration, and current use of azathioprine/6-mercaptopurine. At <20% risk, NAFLD could be excluded with a sensitivity of 86% (negative predictive value, 86%). At ≥50% risk, NAFLD was diagnosed with a specificity of 87% (positive predictive value, 75%). CPN-CD exhibited good discrimination (C-statistic 0.85) compared with fair discrimination of the HSI (C-statistic, 0.76). CPN-CD was superior to the HSI by net reclassification improvement (+0.20; P < 0.001) and decision curve analysis.

Conclusions

CPN-CD outperforms HSI in detecting NAFLD in patients with CD. Future directions include external validation, outcome validation, and testing generalizability to patients with ulcerative colitis.
A behavioural approach to specifying interventions: what insights can be gained for the reporting and implementation of interventions to reduce antibiotic use in hospitals?
Authors: Duncan Eilidh M , Charani Esmita , Clarkson Janet E , Francis Jill J , Gillies Katie , Grimshaw Jeremy M , Kern Winfried V , Lorencatto Fabiana , Marwick Charis A , McEwen Jo , Möhler Ralph , Morris Andrew M , Ramsay Craig R , Rogers Van Katwyk Susan , Rzewuska Magdalena , Skodvin Brita , Smith Ingrid , Suh Kathryn N , Davey Peter G
Published: January 2020

Background

Reducing unnecessary antibiotic exposure is a key strategy in reducing the development and selection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Hospital antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions are inherently complex, often requiring multiple healthcare professionals to change multiple behaviours at multiple timepoints along the care pathway. Inaction can arise when roles and responsibilities are unclear. A behavioural perspective can offer insights to maximize the chances of successful implementation.

Objectives

To apply a behavioural framework [the Target Action Context Timing Actors (TACTA) framework] to existing evidence about hospital AMS interventions to specify which key behavioural aspects of interventions are detailed.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and interrupted time series (ITS) studies with a focus on reducing unnecessary exposure to antibiotics were identified from the most recent Cochrane review of interventions to improve hospital AMS. The TACTA framework was applied to published intervention reports to assess the extent to which key details were reported about what behaviour should be performed, who is responsible for doing it and when, where, how often and with whom it should be performed.

Results

The included studies (n = 45; 31 RCTs and 14 ITS studies with 49 outcome measures) reported what should be done, where and to whom. However, key details were missing about who should act (45%) and when (22%). Specification of who should act was missing in 79% of 15 interventions to reduce duration of treatment in continuing-care wards.

Conclusions

The lack of precise specification within AMS interventions limits the generalizability and reproducibility of evidence, hampering efforts to implement AMS interventions in practice.
A Novel Ionic Liquid-Based Liquid-Liquid Microextraction Combined with High Performance Liquid Chromatography for Simultaneous Determination of Eight Vitamin E Isomers in Human Serum
Authors: Yin Shuo , Yang Yi , Zhang Jing , Li Yongxin , Wu Ling , Sun Chengjun
Published: January 2020

Background

Vitamin E deficiencies are prevalent around the world and have become one of the major public health issues. It is necessary to determine their levels in human serum for routine clinical practice.

Objective

In this study, a simple and green ionic liquid-based (IL)vortex-assisted (VA) liquid–liquid microextraction (LLME) combined with HPLC was developed for simultaneous determination of eight vitamin E isomers in human serum.

Methods

The IL, 1-octyl-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([OMIM]OTf), was added into the diluted sample and vortexed to form a cloudy solution. After centrifugation, the IL phase was collected for HPLC analysis. The separation was accomplished on a Phenomenex Luna-C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) and the column temperature was 30°C. The mobile phase was methanol/acetonitrile (80 + 20, v/v) and the flow rate was 0.7 mL/min. A fluorescence detector was used for the simultaneous detection of eight vitamin E isomers, and the detection wavelength was set at 290/327 nm. The LLME procedure can be completed within 10 min without using any organic solvent. The parameters affecting the extraction efficiencies were optimized, including the type and volume of the ILs, dispersive solvent, vortex time, and salt addition.

Results

Under the optimal conditions, limits of detection were 0.857–4.16 ng/mL. Acceptable recoveries ranging from 80.1% to 103% were achieved, with relative standard deviations less than 13.0%. The proposed method was successfully applied to the detection of eight vitamin E isomers in human serum samples.

Conclusions

This method is simple, fast, environment-friendly, cheap, and has similar linear ranges, sensitivities, accuracy, and precision as those reported chromatographic methods.

Highlights

The IL, [OMIM]OTf, was chosen as the green extractant of LLME for vitamin E extraction because of its strong adsorption property for vitamin E isomers. An IL-VA-LLME method has been developed for the analysis of 8 vitamin E isomers. The established method was successfully applied to the analysis of 8 vitamin E isomers in human serum samples.
Authenticity and the Potability of Coconut Water - a Critical Review
Authors: Burns D Thorburn , Johnston E -L , Walker Michael J
Published: January 2020

Background

The content of the endosperm of the coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) contains “coconut water”. This practically sterile liquid which is prized for its delicate, albeit labile, flavor when fresh, has had a recent dramatic increase in global demand. The organoleptic superiority of water from young coconuts means that degree of maturity at harvesting is the most influential factor in yield and composition.

Objective

To provide a guide to establishing the authenticity and the potability of samples of coconut water.

Method

Review and evaluate the literature on the factors that determine the composition and stability of coconut water.

Results

Data is presented on the variances in natural composition, maturity, processing-induced compositional changes, adulterations, product recalls, classical and instrumental methods of analysis and on the available composition standards of coconut water.

Conclusions

Advice is provided for official food analysts, and others, on prudent approaches as how to ascertain the authenticity and potability, or otherwise, of coconut water samples.
Trap Comparison for Surveillance of the Western Tree Hole Mosquito, Aedes sierrensis (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Chaves Luis Fernando , Reissen Nadja , White Gregory S , Gordon Scott , Faraji Ary
Published: January 2020

The western tree hole mosquito, Aedes sierrensis (Ludlow), is a common nuisance mosquito and vector of Dirofilaria immitis (Leidy), the etiologic agent of dog heartworm, in western North America. Here, we compare weekly mosquito collections made with Mosquito Magnet (MM) traps, Biogents Sentinel (BGS) traps, and Biogents Bowl (BGS Bowl) traps set in Salt Lake City, UT, from the start of June to mid-August 2017. We found the number of mosquitoes decreased with rainfall and temperature independently of trap type. The highest number of mosquitoes were caught by BGS traps baited with carbon dioxide (CO2) and BG lure, which collected 62% (n = 422) of all mosquitoes, followed by the MM at 31% (n = 213), and both the BGS and BG Bowl with BG lure had 3.5% (n = 24) each. Aedes sierrensis females were caught weekly at similar densities (mean ± SD) in BGS with CO2 and lure (1.17 ± 2.93) and the MM (1.17 ± 2.66) traps during the study period. Given that BGS with CO2 and lure traps have several operational advantages over MM traps, including a quicker setup, smaller size, and lower cost, we consider BGS with CO2 and lure traps as the best suited surveillance tool to detect and remove Ae. sierrensis in the western United States and similar settings throughout North America.
Trackers and Trailblazers: Dynamic Interactions and Institutional Design in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights
Authors: Baldini Miranda da Cruz Paula
Published: January 2020

The Inter-American Court’s negative reputation as a judicial activist is often contrasted with its influence in the Inter-American Human Rights System. Despite often issuing broad judgments, the Court has remained a reference and a standard for human rights in the region. This article aims to examine this phenomenon by examining the Court’s institutional powers. The article claims that the Court’s tendency towards judicial activism does not contradict its functions, but rather reflects domestic judicial tendencies and cultures. Domestic judicial cultures and states’ interactions with the Court provide context for the interpretation of its powers and its role in the Inter-American System. The article, therefore, suggests that argumentative legal exchange engaged by the Court and Member States is a healthy way of promoting mutual accountability, while maintaining flexibility for adaptations by both parties and preserving the internal coherence of the regional system.
Evo-physio: on stress responses and the earliest land plants
Authors: Fürst-Jansen Janine M R , de Vries Sophie , de Vries Jan
Published: January 2020

Embryophytes (land plants) can be found in almost any habitat on the Earth’s surface. All of this ecologically diverse embryophytic flora arose from algae through a singular evolutionary event. Traits that were, by their nature, indispensable for the singular conquest of land by plants were those that are key for overcoming terrestrial stressors. Not surprisingly, the biology of land plant cells is shaped by a core signaling network that connects environmental cues, such as stressors, to the appropriate responses—which, thus, modulate growth and physiology. When did this network emerge? Was it already present when plant terrestrialization was in its infancy? A comparative approach between land plants and their algal relatives, the streptophyte algae, allows us to tackle such questions and resolve parts of the biology of the earliest land plants. Exploring the biology of the earliest land plants might shed light on exactly how they overcame the challenges of terrestrialization. Here, we outline the approaches and rationale underlying comparative analyses towards inferring the genetic toolkit for the stress response that aided the earliest land plants in their conquest of land.
An arithmetic interpretation of intuitionistic verification
Authors: Protopopescu Tudor
Published: January 2020

Intuitionistic epistemic logic introduces an epistemic operator to intuitionistic logic, which reflects the intended Brouwer–Heyting–Kolmogorov (BHK) semantics of intuitionism. The fundamental assumption concerning intuitionistic knowledge and belief is that it is the product of verification. The BHK interpretation of intuitionistic logic has a precise formulation in the logic of proofs and its arithmetical semantics. We show here that this interpretation can be extended to the notion of verification upon which intuitionistic knowledge is based, providing the systems of intuitionistic epistemic logic based on verification with an arithmetical semantics too. This confirms that the conception of verification incorporated in these systems reflects the BHK interpretation.
Military Health System Access to Care: Performance and Perceptions
Authors: Abiero Beatrice , Beamer Sharon , Roshwalb Alan , Sackett Amanda , Gliner Melissa , Marshall-Aiyelawo Kimberley , Ellison Janice , McDavid Terry , Bannick Richard , Muraida Daniel
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Access to care (ATC) is an important component of providing quality healthcare. Clinics need to be able to accurately measure access; however, patients’ reports of access may be different from performance-based data gathered using administrative measures. The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between ATC administrative data and patient survey results. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study performed in military medical treatment facilities. Survey data were obtained from the Joint Outpatient Experience Survey (JOES), and administrative data were collected from the Military Health System Data Repository. The data period was from May 2016 through March 2017 for 135 parent Military Treatment Facilities. This study was approved under the Defense Health Agency Internal Review Board (IRB number: CDO-15-2025). The analyses compare JOES ATC measures to administrative ATC measures. Overall correlation analyses and multivariate regression analyses were performed in order to generate observable correlations between access and healthcare measures (both administrative measures and patient survey items). Results: Results show moderate correlations between the facilities’ ATC survey items and administrative measures. These correlations were affected by the composition of the facility patient mix. The patient-based ATC measures from the JOES survey are related to administrative ATC measures collected and monitored by the facilities. In each final regression model, the coefficients for the ATC administrative variables were significant and negative which indicates that as the wait time for an appointment increases, patients’ ratings of the time between scheduling and appointment dates declines and patients’ assessments of being able to see a provider declines as well. Conclusions: Measuring ATC is a vital step in ensuring the health of patients and the provision of high quality care. Both patient surveys and administrative data are widely used for measuring ATC. This study found statistically significant moderate associations between survey and administrative ATC measures, which remained significant even after controlling for patient characteristics of the facilities. These study results suggest that administrative data can provide an accurate assessment of access; however, survey items can be useful for diagnosing potential issues with access, such as call center scheduling and provider availability. Future studies should explore the gaps in research surrounding best practices at facilities which have high patient experience with access, and look at other survey measures related to access, such as telephone resources and web-based communication programs.
A spectroscopic survey of Abell 1703: is it a rare relaxed cluster hosting a radio halo or a usual merging system?
Authors: Boschin W , Girardi M , Gastaldello F
Published: January 2020

We present the study of the internal dynamics of the intriguing galaxy cluster Abell 1703, a system hosting a probable giant radio halo whose dynamical status is still controversial. Our analysis is based on unpublished spectroscopic data acquired at the Italian Telescopio Nazionale Galileo and data publicly available in the literature. We also use photometric data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. We select 147 cluster members and compute the cluster redshift 〈z〉 ∼ 0.277 and the global line-of-sight velocity dispersion σv ∼ 1300 km s−1. We infer that Abell 1703 is a massive cluster: M200 ∼ 1–2 × 1015 M⊙. The results of our study disagree with the picture of an unimodal, relaxed cluster as suggested by previous studies based on the gravitational lensing analysis and support the view of a perturbed dynamics proposed by recent works based on Chandra X-ray data. The first strong evidence of a dynamically disturbed cluster comes from the peculiarity of the BCG velocity with respect to the first moment of the velocity distribution of member galaxies. Moreover, several statistical tests employed to study the cluster galaxies kinematics find significant evidence of substructure, being Abell 1703 composed by at least two or three subclumps probably caught after the core–core passage. In this observational scenario, the suspected existence of a radio halo in the centre of this cluster is not surprising and well agrees with the theoretical models describing diffuse radio sources in clusters.
KASHz: No evidence for ionised outflows instantaneously suppressing star formation in moderate luminosity AGN at z ∼ 1.4–2.6
Authors: Scholtz J , Harrison C M , Rosario D J , Alexander D M , Chen C-C , Kakkad D , Mainieri V , Tiley A L , Turner O , Cirasuolo M , Sharples R M , Stach S
Published: January 2020

As part of our KMOS AGN Survey at High-redshift (KASHz), we present spatially resolved VLT/KMOS and VLT/SINFONI spectroscopic data and ALMA 870 μm continuum imaging of eight z = 1.4–2.6 moderate AGN ($L_{\rm 2-10 \, \rm kev}$ = 1042–1045 ergs s−1). We map [O iii], H α and rest-frame FIR emission to search for any spatial anticorrelation between ionised outflows (traced by the [O  iii] line) and star formation (SF; traced by H α and FIR), that has previously been claimed for some high-z AGN and used as evidence for negative and/or positive AGN feedback. First, we conclude that H α is unreliable to map SF inside our AGN host galaxies based on: (i) SF rates inferred from attenuation-corrected H α can lie below those inferred from FIR; (ii) the FIR continuum is more compact than the H α emission by a factor of ∼2 on average; (iii) in half of our sample, we observe significant spatial offsets between the FIR and H α emission, with an average offset of 1.4 ± 0.6 kpc. Secondly, for the five targets with outflows we find no evidence for a spatial anticorrelation between outflows and SF using either H α or FIR as a tracer. This holds for our re-analysis of a famous z = 1.6 X-ray AGN (‘XID 2028’) where positive and negative feedback has been previously claimed. Based on our results, any impact on SF by ionised outflows must be subtle, either occurring on scales below our resolution, or on long time-scales.
Fructose consumption during pregnancy and lactation causes DNA damage and biochemical changes in female mice
Authors: Magenis Marina Lummertz , Damiani Adriani Paganini , de Marcos Pamela Souza , de Pieri Ellen , de Souza Emanuel , Vilela Thais Ceresér , de Andrade Vanessa Moraes
Published: January 2020

The consumption of fructose during pregnancy can cause hyperglycaemia and may stimulate production of reactive oxygen species; however, there are only a few studies reporting whether fructose consumption during pregnancy causes DNA damage. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fructose consumption on genetic and biochemical parameters in Swiss mice treated during pregnancy and lactation. For this, 15 couples of 60-day-old Swiss mice were divided into three groups of five couples: negative control (water) and two fructose groups (fructose dose of 10%/l and 20%/l). During this period, we evaluated food consumption, energy efficiency and body weight. Samples of blood were collected from the females before copulation, after the 15th day of conception and on the 21st day after the lactation period, for the glycaemic and lipid profiles as well as comet assay and micronucleus (MN) test. Comet assay and MN test evaluate DNA damage and clastogenicity, respectively. In the gestation and lactation period, the two fructose doses tested showed DNA damage as observed in the comet assay, which is associated with an increase in dietary intake, body weight, lipid profile and fasting glycaemia in females. Thus, it can be suggested that the high consumption of fructose during these periods is harmful for pregnancy and lactation.
The internal loops in the lower stem of primary microRNA transcripts facilitate single cleavage of human Microprocessor
Authors: Nguyen Thuy Linh , Nguyen Trung Duc , Bao Sheng , Li Shaohua , Nguyen Tuan Anh
Published: January 2020

The human Microprocessor complex cleaves primary microRNA (miRNA) transcripts (pri-miRNAs) to initiate miRNA synthesis. Microprocessor consists of DROSHA (an RNase III enzyme), and DGCR8. DROSHA contains two RNase III domains, RIIIDa and RIIIDb, which simultaneously cleave the 3p- and 5p-strands of pri-miRNAs, respectively. In this study, we show that the internal loop located in the lower stem of numerous pri-miRNAs selectively inhibits the cleavage of Microprocessor on their 3p-strand, thereby, facilitating the single cleavage on their 5p-strand. This single cleavage does not lead to the production of miRNA but instead, it downregulates miRNA expression. We also demonstrate that by manipulating the size of the internal loop in the lower stem of pri-miRNAs, we can alter the ratio of single-cut to double-cut products resulted from the catalysis of Microprocessor, thus changing miRNA production in the in vitro pri-miRNA processing assays and in human cells. Therefore, the oscillating level of the single cleavage suggests another way of regulation of miRNA expression and offers an alternative approach to miRNA knockdown.
Prevalence and architecture of posttranscriptionally impaired synonymous mutations in 8,320 genomes across 22 cancer types
Authors: Teng Huajing , Wei Wenqing , Li Qinglan , Xue Meiying , Shi Xiaohui , Li Xianfeng , Mao Fengbiao , Sun Zhongsheng
Published: January 2020

Somatic synonymous mutations are one of the most frequent genetic variants occurring in the coding region of cancer genomes, while their contributions to cancer development remain largely unknown. To assess whether synonymous mutations involved in post-transcriptional regulation contribute to the genetic etiology of cancers, we collected whole exome data from 8,320 patients across 22 cancer types. By employing our developed algorithm, PIVar, we identified a total of 22,948 posttranscriptionally impaired synonymous SNVs (pisSNVs) spanning 2,042 genes. In addition, 35 RNA binding proteins impacted by these identified pisSNVs were significantly enriched. Remarkably, we discovered markedly elevated ratio of somatic pisSNVs across all 22 cancer types, and a high pisSNV ratio was associated with worse patient survival in five cancer types. Intriguing, several well-established cancer genes, including PTEN, RB1 and PIK3CA, appeared to contribute to tumorigenesis at both protein function and posttranscriptional regulation levels, whereas some pisSNV-hosted genes, including UBR4, EP400 and INTS1, exerted their function during carcinogenesis mainly via posttranscriptional mechanisms. Moreover, we predicted three drugs associated with two pisSNVs, and numerous compounds associated with expression signature of pisSNV-hosted genes. Our study reveals the prevalence and clinical relevance of pisSNVs in cancers, and emphasizes the importance of considering posttranscriptional impaired synonymous mutations in cancer biology.
Pure Apraxia of Speech After Resection Based in the Posterior Middle Frontal Gyrus
Authors: Chang Edward F , Kurteff Garret , Andrews John P , Briggs Robert G , Conner Andrew K , Battiste James D , Sughrue Michael E
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Apraxia of speech is a disorder of articulatory coordination and planning in speech sound production. Its diagnosis is based on deficits in articulation, prosody, and fluency. It is often described concurrent with aphasia or dysarthria, while pure apraxia of speech is a rare entity.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A right-handed man underwent focal surgical resection of a recurrent grade III astrocytoma in the left hemisphere dorsal premotor cortex located in the posterior middle frontal gyrus. After the procedure, he experienced significant long-term speech production difficulties. A battery of standard and custom language and articulatory assessments were administered, revealing intact comprehension and naming abilities, and preserved strength in orofacial articulators, but considerable deficits in articulatory coordination, fluency, and prosody—consistent with diagnosis of pure apraxia of speech. Tractography and resection volumes compared with publicly available imaging data from the Human Connectome Project suggest possible overlap with area 55b, an under-recognized language area in the dorsal premotor cortex and has white matter connectivity with the superior longitudinal fasciculus.

CONCLUSION

The case reported here details a rare clinical entity, pure apraxia of speech resulting from resection of posterior middle frontal gyrus. While not a classical language area, emerging literature supports the role of this area in the production of fluent speech, and has implications for surgical planning and the general neurobiology of language.
Carbon allocation to the root system of tropical tree Ceiba pentandra using 13C pulse labelling in an aeroponic facility
Authors: Mannerheim Neringa , Blessing Carola H , Oren Israel , Grünzweig José M , Bachofen Christoph , Buchmann Nina
Published: January 2020

Despite the important role of tropical forest ecosystems in the uptake and storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), the carbon (C) dynamics of tropical tree species remains poorly understood, especially regarding belowground roots. This study assessed the allocation of newly assimilated C in the fast-growing pioneer tropical tree species Ceiba pentandra (L.), with a special focus on different root categories. During a 5-day pulse-labelling experiment, 9-month-old (~3.5-m-tall) saplings were labelled with 13CO2 in a large-scale aeroponic facility, which allowed tracing the label in bulk biomass and in non-structural carbohydrates (sugars and starch) as well as respiratory CO2 from the canopy to the root system, including both woody and non-woody roots. A combined logistic and exponential model was used to evaluate 13C mean transfer time and mean residence time (MRT) to the root systems. We found 13C in the root phloem as early as 2 h after the labelling, indicating a mean C transfer velocity of 2.4 ± 0.1 m h−1. Five days after pulse labelling, 27% of the tracers taken up by the trees were found in the leaves and 13% were recovered in the woody tissue of the trunk, 6% in the bark and 2% in the root systems, while 52% were lost, most likely by respiration and exudation. Larger amounts of 13C were found in root sugars than in starch, the former also demonstrating shorter MRT than starch. Of all investigated root categories, non-woody white roots (NRW) showed the largest 13C enrichment and peaked in the deepest NRW (2–3.5 m) as early as 24 ± 2 h after labelling. In contrast to coarse woody brown roots, the sink strength of NRW increased with root depth. The findings of this study improve the understanding of C allocation in young tropical trees and provide unique insights into the changing contributions of woody and non-woody roots to C sink strengths with depth.