bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric validation and cultural adaptation of the Italian medical student stressor questionnaire
Authors: Dagani Jessica , Buizza Chiara , Ferrari Clarissa , Ghilardi Alberto
Published: July 2020

Medical students encounter specific stressors that can lead to higher levels of psychological distress compared to their similar aged counterparts who study other subjects. The Medical Student Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ) was developed to specifically identify stressors among medical students as well as measure the intensity of stress caused by the stressors. However, no Italian version has been validated to date. The aim of this study was to develop an Italian version of the MSSQ (MSSQ-I) and to assess its psychometric properties. The MSSQ has been translated and culturally validated into Italian. All medical students from the University of Brescia were asked to participate in a web-survey in which they were asked to complete the MSSQ-I. For the analysis of the stability over time, participating students were asked to complete again the MSSQ-I after about one month. Among 1754 medical students, 964 completed the MSSQ-I for the validation analyses. A first Confirmatory Factor Analysis and a subsequent Explanatory Factor Analysis outlined a slightly modified factor structure of the scale with five factors instead of six as in the original scale. The internal consistency on the overall scale was high (α = 0.94), as well as the internal consistency of each of the new factors: (α > 0.83 for the first four factors and α = 0.67 for the fifth). External validity analysis confirmed moderate/high concurrent validity. These results suggest that the MSSQ-I can be used as a tool to identify stressors among Italian medical students, although further research is needed to confirm its individual test-retest reliability.
Review of fabrication methods of large-area transparent graphene electrodes for industry
Authors: Mustonen Petri , Mackenzie David M. A. , Lipsanen Harri
Published: July 2020

Graphene is a two-dimensional material showing excellent properties for utilization in transparent electrodes; it has low sheet resistance, high optical transmission and is flexible. Whereas the most common transparent electrode material, tin-doped indium-oxide (ITO) is brittle, less transparent and expensive, which limit its compatibility in flexible electronics as well as in low-cost devices. Here we review two large-area fabrication methods for graphene based transparent electrodes for industry: liquid exfoliation and low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (CVD). We discuss the basic methodologies behind the technologies with an emphasis on optical and electrical properties of recent results. State-of-the-art methods for liquid exfoliation have as a figure of merit an electrical and optical conductivity ratio of 43.5, slightly over the minimum required for industry of 35, while CVD reaches as high as 419.
Cell shape: effects on gene expression and signaling
Authors: Haftbaradaran Esfahani Payam , Knöll Ralph
Published: July 2020

The perception of biophysical forces (mechanosensation) and their conversion into chemical signals (mechanotransduction) are fundamental biological processes. They are connected to hypertrophic and atrophic cellular responses, and defects in these processes have been linked to various diseases, especially in the cardiovascular system. Although cardiomyocytes generate, and are exposed to, considerable hemodynamic forces that affect their shapes, until recently, we did not know whether cell shape affects gene expression. However, new single-cell trapping strategies, followed by single-cell RNA sequencing, to profile the transcriptomes of individual cardiomyocytes of defined geometrical morphotypes have been developed that are characteristic for either normal or pathological (afterload or preload) conditions. This paper reviews the recent literature with regard to cell shape and the transcriptome and provides an overview of this newly emerging field, which has far-reaching implications for both biology, disease, and possibly therapy.
Online monitoring of the center-of-mass energy from real data at BESIII
Authors: Lu Jiada , Xiao Yanjia , Ji Xiaobin
Published: July 2020

Background

Data Quality Monitoring system (DQM) was developed to monitor data quality at BESIII experiment in real time. The stable center-of-mass energy ($$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

) is essential for the data taking. Online monitoring the $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

can help find the beam energy shift in time.

Purpose

The purpose is to monitor the $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

in DQM system in real time.

Methods

The $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

is measured using Bhabha scattering process in DQM system, due to its large cross section and low background level. The $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

is calculated from the invariant mass of $$e^{+}e^{-}$$

e
+

e
-

, and the correction value from radiation effect and momentum calibration.

Result

The $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

calculated with DQM system shows a good consistency with that from offline reconstruction within error. The results are validated with data taken in 2013. The overall systematic uncertainty includes 0.39 MeV/c$$^2$$

2

from signal extraction and 2.54 MeV/c$$^2$$

2

from calibration and radiation correction.

Conclusions

The $$E_\mathrm{cms}$$

E
cms

calculated from Bhabha scattering process is now available on DQM system in real time, which can be used as references for researchers to operate BESIII experiment.
Evaluation of Three Field Rewarming Techniques During Cold Weather Military Training
Authors: Jones Douglas , Bowles Justin , Bergquist-Turori Dale , Cooper Christina , Rostomily Kaitlyn , Pautz Carina , Heaney Jay
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of 3 rewarming techniques to determine how warfighters, and perhaps other populations in wilderness environments, should prioritize field rewarming options after a brief accidental immersion in cold water.

Methods

As part of a cold weather military training exercise, 31 military personnel (mean±SD age: 26±5 y, height: 180±10 cm, weight: 83.2±10.9 kg) completed a 10-min immersion in cold (0°C) water and subsequently rewarmed for 60 min using 3 different field rewarming techniques (sleeping bag, sleeping bag + warm fluids, or exercise). Heart rate, core and skin temperatures, thermal and shivering sensations, and manual dexterity (intravenous setup and insertion) were measured during the training exercise.

Results

Cold water immersion decreased core temperature (pre: 37.4±0.4; post: 36.4±1.0°C; P<0.001) and mean skin temperature (pre: 27.9±1.3; post: 15.6±1.8°C; P<0.001) and impaired manual dexterity (intravenous insertion time, pre: 71±12, post: 166±48 s; P<0.001). Recovery from mild cold stress was similar among all 3 rewarming techniques for all measurements.

Conclusions

Findings suggesting similar rewarming responses in field settings are beneficial for the warfighter, and perhaps others, in that rewarming options exist and can be implemented with no compromise in recovery from cold stress.
Design and implementation of a power distribution system adopting overcurrent protection
Authors: Bekhti M. , Bensaada M. , Beldjehem M.
Published: July 2020

One of the most critical aspects of a small satellite is the electrical power system (EPS) since the electrical power is necessary for the satellite to operate correctly during its predefined lifetime. The electrical power system consists mainly of solar cells, batteries, voltage converters and protection circuits. The electrical power system is responsible of providing stable power to the rest of the satellite subsystems.

In satellite electrical power systems, overcurrent protection is now becoming an important function handled by the power distribution module (PDM). This paper proposes a method to evaluate the suggested protection. With the proposed procedure we should be able to verify that every possible failure does not travel through the EPS and cause a fatal degradation of the electrical power system. This will allow a complete evaluation of functionality of the protection hardware.

This paper discusses the design and implementation of the power distribution module (PDM) for the coming generation of small satellites for the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL). The design must provide a reliable protection for the subsystems from the overcurrent associated with a device failure.
Neurological Manifestations in COVID-19 Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Collantes Maria Epifania V. , Espiritu Adrian I. , Sy Marie Charmaine C. , Anlacan Veeda Michelle M. , Jamora Roland Dominic G.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Growing evidence showed that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection may present with neurological manifestations. This review aimed to determine the neurological manifestations and complications in COVID-19.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that included cohort and case series/reports involving a population of patients confirmed with COVID-19 infection and their neurologic manifestations. We searched the following electronic databases until April 18, 2020: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and World Health Organization database (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020180658).

Results:

From 403 articles identified, 49 studies involving a total of 6,335 confirmed COVID-19 cases were included. The random-effects modeling analysis for each neurological symptom showed the following proportional point estimates with 95% confidence intervals: “headache” (0.12; 0.10–0.14; I2 = 77%), “dizziness” (0.08; 0.05–0.12; I2 = 82%), “headache and dizziness” (0.09; 0.06–0.13; I2 = 0%), “nausea” (0.07; 0.04–0.11; I2 = 79%), “vomiting” (0.05; 0.03–0.08; I2 = 74%), “nausea and vomiting” (0.06; 0.03–0.11; I2 = 83%), “confusion” (0.05; 0.02–0.14; I2 = 86%), and “myalgia” (0.21; 0.18–0.25; I2 = 85%). The most common neurological complication associated with COVID-19 infection was vascular disorders (n = 23); other associated conditions were encephalopathy (n = 3), encephalitis (n = 1), oculomotor nerve palsy (n = 1), isolated sudden-onset anosmia (n = 1), Guillain–Barré syndrome (n = 1), and Miller–Fisher syndrome (n = 2). Most patients with neurological complications survived (n = 14); a considerable number of patients died (n = 7); and the rest had unclear outcomes (n = 12).

Conclusion:

This review revealed that neurologic involvement may manifest in COVID-19 infection. What has initially been thought of as a primarily respiratory illness has evolved into a wide-ranging multi-organ disease.
Clinical Features of Fatalities in Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Sun Ya-Jun , Feng Yi-Jin , Chen Jing , Li Bo , Luo Zhong-Cheng , Wang Pei-Xi
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has spread to over 213 countries and territories. We sought to describe the clinical features of fatalities in patients with severe COVID-19.

Methods:

We conducted an Internet-based retrospective cohort study through retrieving the clinical information of 100 COVID-19 deaths from nonduplicating incidental reports in Chinese provincial and other governmental websites between January 23 and March 10, 2020.

Results:

Approximately 6 of 10 COVID-19 deaths were males (64.0%). The average age was 70.7 ± 13.5 y, and 84% of patients were elderly (over age 60 y). The mean duration from admission to diagnosis was 2.2 ± 3.8 d (median: 1 d). The mean duration from diagnosis to death was 9.9 ± 7.0 d (median: 9 d). Approximately 3 of 4 cases (76.0%) were complicated by 1 or more chronic diseases, including hypertension (41.0%), diabetes (29.0%) and coronary heart disease (27.0%), respiratory disorders (23.0%), and cerebrovascular disease (12.0%). Fever (46.0%), cough (33.0%), and shortness of breath (9.0%) were the most common first symptoms. Multiple organ failure (67.9%), circulatory failure (20.2%), and respiratory failure (11.9%) are the top 3 direct causes of death.

Conclusions:

COVID-19 deaths are mainly elderly and patients with chronic diseases especially cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. Multiple organ failure is the most common direct cause of death.
Therapeutic efficacy of a newly synthesized benzimidazole compound BTP-OH against murine schistosomiasis mansoni
Authors: Taman A. , Mansour B. , Youssef M.Y. , Alhusseiny S.M.
Published: July 2020

Because of the increasingly emerging praziquantel resistance, there is a crucial need to develop new anti-schistosomal agents. This work was conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy of a new benzimidazole compound (BTP-OH) in mice experimentally infected with Schistosoma mansoni. A total of 40 Swiss albino female mice were divided into an infected untreated group and three infected treated groups (using praziquantel and BTP-OH). The compound activity was evaluated through parasitological, histopathological and scanning electron microscopy studies. Praziquantel and BTP-OH at both doses significantly reduced male (75%, 42.67% and 61.08%, respectively), female (71.45%, 48.94% and 68.13%, respectively) and total worm burden (75.21%, 42.42% and 62.28%, respectively), as well as tissue egg load in the liver (71.22%, 42.12% and 66.04%, respectively). In oogram, praziquantel significantly increased the percentage of dead eggs (65.89%), while BTP-OH significantly reduced the percentage of immature eggs (30.43% and 19.64%). BTP-OH significantly diminished granuloma count (33.87% and 44.77%) and diameter (39.23% and 49.40%), and caused ultrastructural changes in the tegument of adult schistosomes. This study provides evidence for the schistosomicidal efficacy of BTP-OH. However, future studies are needed to elucidate the full mechanisms of action and effects of BTP-OH on other human schistosomes.
Diet composition and feeding habits of the pelagic thresher shark Alopias pelagicus in Eastern Central Pacific Ocean, Ecuadorian waters
Authors: Calle-Morán Marcos D. , Galván-Magaña Felipe
Published: July 2020

The diet and feeding habits of the pelagic thresher shark Alopias pelagicus were analysed based on 104 stomachs (N = 84 females, 20 males) collected off Santa Rosa de Salinas, in the Ecuadorian Pacific. The sharks were caught between February 2008 and January 2009 in artisanal fisheries. The trophic spectrum of A. pelagicus included 19 prey items (10 cephalopods and 9 teleost fishes), the main four prey were the red flying squid Ommastrephes bartramii, jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas, the purpleback flying squid Sthenoteuthis oualaniensis and the South Pacific hake Merluccius gayi. The trophic niche was narrow (Bi = 0.2), thus the pelagic thresher could be considered a specialist predator. The analysis of dietary overlap showed high similarity between the diets of females and males (Cλ = 0.99), immature and mature females (Cλ = 0.81), immature and mature males (Cλ = 0.72), sizes of 141–230 cm TL and 231–321 cm TL (Cλ = 0.97), as well as sharks in rainy season and dry season (Cλ = 0.77). Using canonical of correspondence analysis (CCA), we found similarities in the diet for all categories recorded (sex: canonical r = 0.38, P = 0.97; sexual maturity stage: canonical r = 0.54, P = 0.31; sizes: canonical r = 0.55, P = 0.26; seasons of the year: canonical r = 0.61, P = 0.75). The trophic level estimated for A. pelagicus was 5.0, which is typical of top predators (quaternary consumers or tertiary carnivores).
Optimization test of a rule-based swarm intelligence simulation for the conceptual design process
Authors: Agirbas Asli
Published: July 2020

Today, in the field of architecture, bio-inspired algorithms can be used to design and seek solutions to design problems. Two of the most popular algorithms are the genetic algorithm (GA) and swarm intelligence algorithm. However, no study has examined the simultaneous use of these two bio-inspired algorithms in the field of architecture. Therefore, this study aims to test whether these two bio-inspired algorithms can work together. To this end, GA is used in this study to optimize the rule-based swarm algorithm for the conceptual design process. In this optimization test, the objective was to increase the surface area, and the constraints are parcel boundary and building height. Further, the forms associated with swarm agents were determined as variables. Following the case studies, the study concludes that the two bio-inspired algorithms can effectively work together.
A SUNSPOT-BASED THEORY OF UNCONVENTIONAL MONETARY POLICY
Authors: Farmer Roger E. A. , Zabczyk Pawel
Published: July 2020

This paper is about the effectiveness of qualitative easing, a form of unconventional monetary policy that changes the risk composition of the central bank balance sheet. We construct a general equilibrium model where agents have rational expectations, and there is a complete set of financial securities, but where some agents are unable to participate in financial markets. We show that a change in the risk composition of the central bank’s balance sheet affects equilibrium asset prices and economic activity. We prove that, in our model, a policy in which the central bank stabilizes non-fundamental fluctuations in the stock market is self-financing and leads to a Pareto efficient outcome.
Depression and anxiety in early adulthood: consequences for finding a partner, and relationship support and conflict
Authors: Leach L.S. , Butterworth P.
Published: July 2020

Aims

Mental health problems in early adulthood may disrupt partner relationship formation and quality. This prospective study used four waves of Australian data to investigate the effects of depression and anxiety in early adulthood on the quality of future partner (i.e. marriage or cohabiting) relationships.

Methods

A representative community sample of Australian adults aged 20–24 years was assessed in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011. Analyses were restricted to those who at baseline had never entered a marriage or cohabiting relationship with no children (n = 1592). Associations were examined between baseline depression and anxiety levels (using the Goldberg Depression and Anxiety scales) and (a) future relationship status and (b) the quality of marriage or cohabiting relationships recorded at follow-up (up to 12 years later) (partner social support and conflict scales).

Results

Depression in early adulthood was associated with never entering a partner relationship over the study period. For those who did enter a relationship, both depression and anxiety were significantly associated with subsequently lower relationship support and higher conflict. Supplementary analyses restricting the analyses to the first relationship entered at follow-up, and considering comorbid anxiety and depression, strongly supported these findings.

Conclusions

Depression and anxiety in early adulthood is associated with poorer partner relationship quality in the future. This study adds to evidence showing that mental health problems have substantial personal and inter-personal costs. The findings support the need to invest in prevention and early intervention.
Transnational research for coastal wetlands conservation in a Cuba–US setting
Authors: Ramenzoni Victoria C. , Besonen Mark R. , Yoskowitz David , Sánchez Vanessa Vázquez , Rivero Armando Rangel , González-Díaz Patricia , Méndez Armando Falcón , Escuela Daily Borroto , Ramos Idania Hernández , López Norgis Valentín Hernández , McKinney Larry
Published: July 2020

Non-technical summary

Sharing information between different countries is key for developing sustainable solutions to environmental change. Coastal wetlands in the Gulf of Mexico are suffering significant environmental and human-related threats. Working across national boundaries, this research project brings together scientists, specialists and local communities from Cuba and the USA. While important advances have been made in strengthening collaborations, important obstacles remain in terms of international policy constraints, different institutional and academic cultures and technology. Overcoming these limitations is essential to formulating a comprehensive understanding of the challenges that coastal socioecological systems are facing now and into the future.
Predictive Validity of the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)	for Pilot Performance
Authors: ALMamari Khalid , Traynor Anne
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The Air Force Qualifying Test (AFOQT) has been the primary selection test battery for officer candidates in the US Air Force since 1953. Despite a wealth of literature on the validity of the AFOQT in predicting pilot performance, there is less evidence on its validity generalization. This study investigated the predictive validity of 16 AFOQT subtests and its Pilot composite via psychometric meta-analytic procedures. Based on 32 independent samples from 26 studies, results indicated that pilot performance is best predicted by subtests indicative of perceptual speed, aviation-related aptitude and knowledge, and quantitative ability constructs, and least predicted by subtests indicative of verbal ability construct. Evidence for validity generalization of AFOQT subtests is presented, and implications for practical use are discussed.
The 24 December 2018 Eruptive Intrusion at Etna Volcano as Revealed by Multidisciplinary Continuous Deformation Networks (CGPS, Borehole Strainmeters and Tiltmeters)
Authors: Aloisi M. , Bonaccorso A. , Cannavò F. , Currenti G. , Gambino S.
Published: July 2020

We have modeled the fast dike intrusion that started on 24 December 2018 at Mount Etna. The intrusion was accompanied by an intense seismicity swarm that also continued the following day. Since previous studies did not detail the overall chain of events in time during the magma ascent, here we propose a combined analytical and FEM modeling of all available continuous deformation data, focusing on the signals over 2 days (24–25 December) when the continuous deformation networks recorded clear variations directly related to the dike ascent. High‐rate GPS enabled obtaining an early and reliable source model. Borehole instruments (strainmeters and tiltmeters) highlighted clear variations, starting about 1 hr before those recorded by GPS, and moreover, made it possible to improve the dike ascent modeling. In particular, our continuous deformation data clearly revealed not one but two dikes and showed how they evolved in time. We inferred one dike that began propagating in the first kilometer above sea level, continued to rise with a maximum opening of 1.9 m and increased its horizontal dimension until reaching the ground surface. Soon after, continuous deformation networks revealed a new elongated intrusion in the southern flank, matching the south shifted position of the seismic swarm. This second dike, with a thicker opening of 4.9 m, started from a depth of about −3 km (below sea level) but did not reach the ground surface. This proposed multiparametric modeling of continuous deformation data has therefore enabled disentangling the complexity of the real volcanic processes.
Impact of Atmospheric and Model Physics Perturbations on a High‐Resolution Ensemble Data Assimilation System of the Red Sea
Authors: Sanikommu Sivareddy , Toye Habib , Zhan Peng , Langodan Sabique , Krokos George , Knio Omar , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: July 2020

The Ensemble Adjustment Kalman Filter of the Data Assimilation Research Testbed is implemented to assimilate observations of satellite sea surface temperature, altimeter sea surface height, and in situ ocean temperature and salinity profiles into an eddy‐resolving 4 km Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model of the Red Sea. We investigate the impact of three different ensemble generation strategies: (1) Iexp—uses ensemble of ocean states to initialize the model on 1 January 2011 and inflates filter error covariance by 10%; (2) IAexp—adds ensemble of atmospheric forcing to Iexp; and (3) IAPexp—adds perturbed model physics to IAexp. The assimilation experiments are run for 1 year, starting from the same initial ensemble and assimilating data every 3 days.

Results demonstrate that the Iexp mainly improved the model outputs with respect to assimilation‐free Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model run in the first few months, before showing signs of dynamical imbalances in the ocean estimates, particularly in the data‐sparse subsurface layers. The IAexp yielded substantial improvements throughout the assimilation period with almost no signs of imbalances, including the subsurface layers. It further well preserved the model mesoscale features resulting in an improved forecast for eddies, both in terms of intensity and location. Perturbing model physics in IAPexp slightly improved the forecast statistics and also the placement of basin‐scale eddies. Increasing hydrographic coverage further improved the results of IAPexp compared to IAexp in the subsurface layers. Switching off multiplicative inflation in IAexp and IAPexp leads to further improvements, especially in the subsurface layers.
Plasma tumour DNA as an early indicator of treatment response in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Conteduca Vincenza , Wetterskog Daniel , Scarpi Emanuela , Romanel Alessandro , Gurioli Giorgia , Jayaram Anuradha , Lolli Cristian , Tandefelt Delila Gasi , Schepisi Giuseppe , Casadei Chiara , Wingate Anna , Matteucci Federica , Paganelli Giovanni , Gonzalez-Billalabeitia Enrique , Demichelis Francesca , De Giorgi Ugo , Attard Gerhardt
Published: July 2020

Background

Plasma tumour DNA (ptDNA) levels on treatment are associated with response in a variety of cancers. However, the role of ptDNA in prostate cancer monitoring remains largely unexplored. Here we characterised on-treatment ptDNA dynamics and evaluated its potential for early assessment of therapy efficacy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).

Methods

Between 2011 and 2016, 114 sequential plasma samples from 43 mCRPC abiraterone-treated patients were collected. Targeted next-generation sequencing was performed to determine ptDNA fraction. ptDNA progressive disease was defined as a rise in the fraction compared to the pre-treatment.

Results

A ptDNA rise in the first on-treatment sample (interquartile range (IQR) 2.6–3.7 months) was significantly associated with increased risk of early radiographic or any prostate-specific antigen (PSA) rise (odds ratio (OR) = 15.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.5–60.2, p = 0.0002 and OR = 6.0, 95% CI 1.6–20.0, p = 0.01, respectively). We also identified exemplar cases that had a rise in PSA or pseudoprogression secondary to bone flare but no rise in ptDNA. In an exploratory analysis, initial ptDNA change was found to associate with the duration of response to prior androgen deprivation therapy (p < 0.0001) but not to prior taxanes (p = 0.32).

Conclusions

We found that ptDNA assessment for therapy monitoring in mCRPC is feasible and provides data relevant to the clinical setting. Prospective evaluation of these findings is now merited.
Refining anodic and cathodic dissolution mechanisms: combined AESEC-EIS applied to Al-Zn pure phase in alkaline solution
Authors: Han Junsoo , Vivier Vincent , Ogle Kevin
Published: July 2020

In this work, the use of atomic emission spectroelectrochemistry (AESEC) coupled to electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is presented as a method of revealing dissolution mechanisms. To illustrate the method, the dissolution kinetics of Al cations from an Al-Zn pure phase (Zn-68 wt.% Al) was investigated in an alkaline solution. In the cathodic potential domain, a nearly direct formation of dissolved Al3+ was observed, while in the anodic potential domain the Al dissolution occurred by migration across a ZnO/Zn(OH)2 film. It was demonstrated that this methodology can be applied to a nonstationary system during a potentiostatic experiment for a lower Al content phase (Zn-22 wt.% Al). The nature of the charge transfer mechanisms depended on the applied potential and could be identified by comparing the direct current and alternating current faradaic yield using AESEC-EIS.
Strontium and oxygen isotopes as indicators of Longobards mobility in Italy: an investigation at Povegliano Veronese
Authors: Francisci Guendalina , Micarelli Ileana , Iacumin Paola , Castorina Francesca , Di Vincenzo Fabio , Di Matteo Martina , Giostra Caterina , Manzi Giorgio , Tafuri Mary Anne
Published: July 2020

The arrival of the Longobards in Northern Italy in 568 CE marked a period of renewed political stability in the Peninsula after the collapse of the Western Roman Empire. The trajectory of the spread of Longobards in Italy across the Alps and into the South is known from many literary sources. However, their mobility and residence patterns at a population level remain to be fully understood. Here we present a multi-isotopic analysis (87Sr/86Sr and 18O/16O) of 39 humans and 14 animals buried at the Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese (VR, Italy; 6th—8th century CE), to address mode and tempo of the spread of this population in the Peninsula. The geographical location of Povegliano Veronese plays a key role: the site lies along the Via Postumia, which was one of the main ancient Roman roads of Northern Italy, representing an important route in post-classical Italy. The integration of isotopic data with the archaeological evidence allowed us to determine the presence of individuals from at least three different regions of origin, building a diachronic map of the dynamics of mobility of this group in northern Italy.
Quantifying greenhouse gas emissions from global aquaculture
Authors: MacLeod Michael J. , Hasan Mohammad R. , Robb David H. F. , Mamun-Ur-Rashid Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Global aquaculture makes an important contribution to food security directly (by increasing food availability and accessibility) and indirectly (as a driver of economic development). In order to enable sustainable expansion of aquaculture, we need to understand aquaculture’s contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and how it can be mitigated. This study quantifies the global GHG emissions from aquaculture (excluding the farming of aquatic plants), with a focus on using modern, commercial feed formulations for the main species groups and geographic regions. Here we show that global aquaculture accounted for approximately 0.49% of anthropogenic GHG emissions in 2017, which is similar in magnitude to the emissions from sheep production. The modest emissions reflect the low emissions intensity of aquaculture, compared to terrestrial livestock (in particular cattle, sheep and goats), which is due largely to the absence of enteric CH4 in aquaculture, combined with the high fertility and low feed conversion ratios of finfish and shellfish.
Prognostic significance of interim PET/CT response for the treatment of advanced-stage marginal zone lymphoma in the post-rituximab era
Authors: Song Ga-Young , Yoon Sang Eun , Kim Seok Jin , Kim Jin Seok , Koh Youngil , Moon Joon-Ho , Oh Sung Yong , Lee Ho Sup , Shin Ho-Jin , Do Young Rok , Lee Won Sik , Kim Dae sik , Park Yong , Yhim Ho-Young , Yang Deok-Hwan
Published: July 2020

There are still controversies about the use of interim positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma due to the variable fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avidity. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the roles of interim PET/CT in marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), a representative indolent lymphoma. We analyzed the data of 146 MZL patients. All were treated with rituximab-containing immunochemotherapy. Interim PET/CT scan was performed after 2–3 cycles of therapy, and the response was assessed using the Deauville 5-point scales (5-PS) and a semi-quantitative assessment using the SUVmax reduction rate (ΔSUVmax). Progression-free survival (PFS) was well stratified according to a visual assessment of interim PET/CT using 5-PS (p < 0.001). Particularly, there was a significant difference in PFS between patients with interim score 1–2 and those with score 3. However, ΔSUVmax did not predict the survival outcome using 59.8% of the optimal cutoff value. In the multivariate analysis, failure to achievement of grade 1–2 in interim PET/CT was significantly associated with inferior PFS (HR, 2.154; 95% CI 1.071–4.332; p = 0.031). The interim PET/CT response based on the 5-PS is useful for predicting PFS of patients with MZL in the post-rituximab era.
Colonization kinetics and implantation follow-up of the sewage microbiome in an urban wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Morin Loïc , Goubet Anne , Madigou Céline , Pernelle Jean-Jacques , Palmier Karima , Labadie Karine , Lemainque Arnaud , Michot Ophélie , Astoul Lucie , Barbier Paul , Almayrac Jean-Luc , Sghir Abdelghani
Published: July 2020

The Seine-Morée wastewater treatment plant (SM_WWTP), with a capacity of 100,000 population-equivalents, was fed with raw domestic wastewater during all of its start-up phase. Its microbiome resulted from the spontaneous evolution of wastewater-borne microorganisms. This rare opportunity allowed us to analyze the sequential microbiota colonization and implantation follow up during the start-up phase of this WWTP by means of regular sampling carried out over 8 months until the establishment of a stable and functional ecosystem. During the study, biological nitrification–denitrification and dephosphatation occurred 68 days after the start-up of the WWTP, followed by flocs decantation 91 days later. High throughput sequencing of 18S and 16S rRNA genes was performed using Illumina's MiSeq and PGM Ion Torrent platforms respectively, generating 584,647 16S and 521,031 18S high-quality sequence rDNA reads. Analyses of 16S and 18S rDNA datasets show three colonization phases occurring concomitantly with nitrification, dephosphatation and floc development processes. Thus, we could define three microbiota profiles that sequentially colonized the SM_WWTP: the early colonizers, the late colonizers and the continuous spectrum population. Shannon and inverse Simpson diversity indices indicate that the highest microbiota diversity was reached at days 133 and 82 for prokaryotes and eukaryotes respectively; after that, the structure and complexity of the wastewater microbiome reached its functional stability. This study demonstrates that physicochemical parameters and microbial metabolic interactions are the main forces shaping microbial community structure, gradually building up and maintaining a functionally stable microbial ecosystem.
Chemical weathering and CO2 consumption rates of rocks in the Bishuiyan subterranean basin of Guangxi, China
Authors: Jiang Pingping , Yu Guo , Zhang Qiang , Zou Yane , Tang Qingjia , Kang Zhiqiang , Sytharith Pen , Xiao He
Published: July 2020

To investigate the influence of chemical weathering on CO2 consumption, an analysis was performed of water chemistry by applying water chemistry equilibria methods in the Bishuiyan subterranean basin, SW China. The average value of total ion concentrations (TZ+) was 1,854.97 μEq/L, which was significantly higher than the global average value (TZ+ = 1,250 μEq/L). Ca2+ and HCO3− were the main ionic constituents in the waters. SO42− and NO3− concentrations were relatively higher than other anion concentrations, and Cl− concentrations were consistently the lowest. Dissolved load balance models result showed that carbonate weathering, silicate weathering, and atmospheric input were the primary ionic contributors, wherein the effects of carbonate weathering > silicate weathering > atmospheric input for the whole catchment, with the exception of Taiping, where silicate weathering was prominent over carbonate weathering. In addition, these analyses indicated that the erosion via rock weathering was also affected by atmospherically derived CO2 and allogenic acids. The estimated yield by quantitative calculation for the carbonate weathering rate was 59.7 t/(km2 year), which was 4.40 times higher than that of silicate weathering rate. Further, the carbonate and silicate weathering components of the carbon sink accounted for 71.2% and 28.8%, respectively, of the total basin rock weathering carbon sink.
Rapid detection of microbiota cell type diversity using machine-learned classification of flow cytometry data
Authors: Özel Duygan Birge D. , Hadadi Noushin , Babu Ambrin Farizah , Seyfried Markus , van der Meer Jan R.
Published: July 2020

The study of complex microbial communities typically entails high-throughput sequencing and downstream bioinformatics analyses. Here we expand and accelerate microbiota analysis by enabling cell type diversity quantification from multidimensional flow cytometry data using a supervised machine learning algorithm of standard cell type recognition (CellCognize). As a proof-of-concept, we trained neural networks with 32 microbial cell and bead standards. The resulting classifiers were extensively validated in silico on known microbiota, showing on average 80% prediction accuracy. Furthermore, the classifiers could detect shifts in microbial communities of unknown composition upon chemical amendment, comparable to results from 16S-rRNA-amplicon analysis. CellCognize was also able to quantify population growth and estimate total community biomass productivity, providing estimates similar to those from 14C-substrate incorporation. CellCognize complements current sequencing-based methods by enabling rapid routine cell diversity analysis. The pipeline is suitable to optimize cell recognition for recurring microbiota types, such as in human health or engineered systems.
Inhibition of Na+/K+ ATPase blocks Zika virus infection in mice
Authors: Guo Jiao , Jia Xiaoying , Liu Yang , Wang Shaobo , Cao Junyuan , Zhang Bo , Xiao Gengfu , Wang Wei
Published: July 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an infectious disease that has become an important concern worldwide, it associates with neurological disorders and congenital malformations in adults, also leading to fetal intrauterine growth restriction and microcephaly during pregnancy. However, there are currently no approved vaccines or specific antiviral drugs for preventing or treating ZIKV infection. Here, we show that two FDA-approved Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitors, ouabain and digoxin, can block ZIKV infection at the replication stage by targeting Na+/K+-ATPase. Furthermore, ouabain reduced the viral burden of ZIKV in adult mice, penetrated the placental barrier to enter fetal tissues, and protected fetal mice from ZIKV infection-induced microcephaly in a pregnant mouse model. Thus, ouabain has therapeutic potential for ZIKV.
Representation Learning in Chemistry
Authors: Staker Joshua , Marques Gabriel , Dakka J.
Published: July 2020

The past few years have seen a significantly increased interest in applying contemporary machine learning methods to drug discovery, materials science, and other applications in chemistry. Recent advances in deep learning, coupled with the ever-expanding volume of publicly available data, have enabled a breadth of new directions to explore, both in accelerating commercial applications and in enabling new research directions. Many machine learning methods cannot utilize molecule data stored in common formats, e.g., SMILES or connection table, and first require molecules to be descriptorized and processed into representations amenable to machine learning. Historically, molecular featurization has been performed through non-learned transformations that are usually coarse-grained and highly lossy, such as molecular fingerprints that encounter bit collisions and discard the overall molecular topology. By contrast, learned featurization may provide richer, more descriptive representations of molecules, leading to more powerful and accurate models. We compare common non-learned featurization methods with those that are learned and explore the different families of deep neural architectures used to obtain learned representations. We also discuss recent work that explores the addition of constraints to models that induce stronger physical priors in deep neural network architectures. Imposing physical constraints in neural models can lead to more robust featurizations and improved transfer learning.
An optical sensor for the detection and quantification of lidocaine in cocaine samples
Authors: Chagas Francielle O. , Hespanhol Maria C. , da Silva Luis H. M. , Patrício Pamela R. , Maldaner Adriano O. , Soares Thaís S. , Castro Alan S. B. , Marinho Pablo A.
Published: July 2020

An optical sensor (OS) was synthesized by mixing 10,12-pentacosadiinoic acid (PDA) with a triblock copolymer for use in the detection/quantification of lidocaine (LD) in seized cocaine hydrochloride (seized CH) samples.
A redox-activatable biopolymer-based micelle for sequentially enhanced mitochondria-targeted photodynamic therapy and hypoxia-dependent chemotherapy
Authors: Li Yanan , Sutrisno Linawati , Hou Yanhua , Fei Yang , Xue Chengcheng , Hu Yan , Li Menghuan , Luo Zhong
Published: July 2020

This work reports a biopolymer-based micellar nanoplatform with redox-sensitivity for sequentially enhanced mitochondria-targeted photodynamic therapy and hypoxia-amplified chemotherapy against CD44-positive tumors.
Porous materials as carriers of gasotransmitters towards gas biology and therapeutic applications
Authors: Carné-Sánchez Arnau , Carmona Francisco J. , Kim Chiwon , Furukawa Shuhei
Published: July 2020

This review highlights the strategies employed to load and release gasotransmitters such as NO, CO and H2S from different kinds of porous materials, including zeolites, mesoporous silica, metal–organic frameworks and protein assemblies.
Facile synthesis of morphology-controlled La:BaSnO3 for the enhancement of thermoelectric power factor
Authors: Rajasekaran Palani , Arivanandhan Mukannan , Kumaki Yuki , Jayavel Ramasamy , Hayakawa Yasuhiro , Shimomura Masaru
Published: July 2020

Donor-doped BaSnO3 (BSO) ceramics are promising n-type oxide materials for high-temperature thermoelectric applications.
PtN3-Embedded graphene as an efficient catalyst for electrochemical reduction of nitrobenzene to aniline: a theoretical study
Authors: Wang Shuang , Liu Yuejie , Zhao Jingxiang
Published: July 2020

PtN3 moiety embedded into graphene can be utilized as a promising electrocatalyst for the reduction of nitrobenzene to amine due to its ultra-low limiting potential of (–0.21 V).
An NMR-compatible microfluidic platform enabling in situ electrochemistry
Authors: Davoodi Hossein , Nordin Nurdiana , Bordonali Lorenzo , Korvink Jan G. , MacKinnon Neil , Badilita Vlad
Published: July 2020

Integrating precisely-oriented micro-electrodes and NMR micro-coils enables in situ monitoring of electrochemistry processes.
Differential antimicrobial and cellular response of electrolytically metalized halloysite nanotubes having different amounts of surface metallization
Authors: Humayun Ahmed , Luo Yangyang , Elumalai Anusha , Mills David K.
Published: July 2020

We demonstrate an electrolytic method to metalize the outer surface of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) creating an antimicrobial ceramic nanoparticle.
One-pot synthesis of a hydrogen peroxide-selective fluorogenic probe and its application in Parkinson's diseasein vitroandvivomodels
Authors: Lu Yao , Peng Bo , Qiu Xinghan , Li Xin , Li Zheng , Zhang Duoteng , Ji Wenhui , Fang Bin , Wu Qiong , Zhang Chengwu , Li Lin , Huang Wei
Published: July 2020

An abnormal level of hydrogen peroxide in neurons is strongly implicated in the progression of Parkinson’s disease. A one-pot multicomponent reaction has been utilized to synthesise phosphate ester-based probe for imaging of H2O2 in living cells andDrosophilaPD model.
Tunable yellow–green emitting cyclotriphosphazene appended phenothiazine hydrazone hybrid material: synthesis, characterisation, photophysical and electrochemical studies
Authors: Chelike Dinesh Kumar , Alagumalai Ananthan , V. R. Muthukumar , Gurusamy Thangavelu Senthil A. , Krishnamoorthy Ananthanarayanan
Published: July 2020

A novel tunable yellow–green emitting inorganic–organic luminescent hybrid molecule, CTP-PTZ, an assembly of six units of the PTZ hydrazone Schiff base on the periphery of inorganic heterocycle cyclotriphosphazene, is reported.
Investigation of the role of terminal ligands in magnetic relaxation in a series of dinuclear dysprosium complexes
Authors: Bera Siba Prasad , Mondal Arpan , Konar Sanjit
Published: July 2020

Three dinuclear dysprosium complexes have been studied to establish the role of terminal ligands in the magnetic properties of the complexes.
Investigation of the structural, optical and gas sensing properties of PANI coated Cu–ZnS microsphere composite
Authors: Parangusan Hemalatha , Bhadra Jolly , Ahmad Zubair , Mallick Shoaib , Touati Farid , Al-Thani Noora
Published: July 2020

Polyaniline (PANI)/Cu–ZnS composites with porous microspheres are prepared by a hydrothermal andin situpolymerization method.
Probability of detection of deep defects in steel samples using Barker coded independent component thermography
Authors: Ahmad J. , Akula A. , Mulaveesala R. , Sardana H.K.
Published: July 2020

Barker coded independent component thermography (BCICT) approach known for exploiting the pulse compression properties with independent component analysis method was used to examine a mild steel sample with drilled flat‐bottomed holes at various depths. This Letter emphasises the application of the probability of detection (POD) as a predictive assessment tool for the efficacy of the different methods to detect the defects at varying depths. The results exhibited that the aspect ratio of the deep defect with 90% POD and for 90% POD with 95% confidence that can be detected using the BCICT approach are 3.161 and 3.835, respectively. Besides, a relation between the POD of the defect at different depths as a feature of the defect aspect ratio (diameter/depth) has also been presented.
Antikoagulation bei Vorhofflimmern
Authors: Hohnloser Stefan
Published: July 2020

Anticoagulation with oral antagonists without vitamin K (NOACs) is the preferred therapy for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation. Vitamin K antagonists (VKA) should only be prescribed if there are contraindications to NOAC (e. g. mechanical heart valves, rheumatic mitral stenosis). The guideline recommendations are based on dedicated NOAC development programs with large randomized clinical phase III studies. Data from observational studies on the efficacy and safety of NOACs compared to VKA are in general complementary to data stemming from the phase III studies. Due to their pharmacokinetic and dynamic properties, NOACs are much easier to handle than VKA. Amongst other advantages, this implies that in case of short interruptions in anticoagulation therapy (e. g. for surgical procedures), bridging therapy with heparin is no longer required. This will reduce bleeding complications dramatically.
Die Gichtarthritis: Pathogenese, Diagnostik und Behandlung
Authors: Keyßer Gernot
Published: July 2020

The initial presentation of gouty arthritis can be a dramatic event. Chronic gout may lead to the destruction of joints, invalidity and increased mortality. The incidence of this disorder is high, despite effective therapeutic measures. The treatment of refractory cases may be a challenge to the general practitioner and the specialist alike. The article presented here summarizes the current state of diagnostics and treatment of acute and chronic gout.
Selbstvertraut handeln – Wohlbefinden im Beruf
Authors: Grießig Ritva
Published: July 2020

Da wir viel Zeit unseres Lebens mit unserer Berufstätigkeit verbringen, sind dabei auch unser berufliches Sinnerleben und Wohlbefinden wichtig. Psychologin Ritva Grießig stellt einige Aspekten vor, die dabei helfen können, sich im Berufsalltag wohlzufühlen.
Mobilitätsstatus erheben und Prognose abgeben – New Mobility Score
Authors: Peter Viktoria
Published: July 2020

Nach einer Hüftfraktur ist es für ältere Personen wichtig, wieder schnell an Mobilität zu gewinnen. Der New Mobility Score ist ein Instrument, das dabei hilft, eine Prognose darüber zu treffen, inwieweit sich ein Patient wieder selbstständig fortbewegen wird.