bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nepetin inhibits osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting RANKL‐induced activation of NF‐κB and MAPK signalling pathway, and autophagy
Authors: Chu Binxiang , Chen Shenao , Zheng Xiaohe , Ye Jiajing , Cheng Xu , Zhang Liwei , Guo Di , Wang Peng , Hong Dun , Hong Zhenghua
Published: November 2020

Aseptic prosthetic loosening due to wear particle–induced inflammatory osteolysis is the main cause of failure for artificial joint replacement. The inflammatory response and the production of pro‐osteoclastic factors lead to elevation of osteoclast formation and excessive activity results in extensive bone destruction around the bone‐implant interface. Here we showed that Nepetin, a natural bioactive flavonoid with proven anti‐inflammatory and anti‐proliferative properties, potently inhibited RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation, formation and bone resorption in vitro, and protected mice against the deleterious effects of titanium particle–induced calvarial osteolysis in vivo. Mechanistically, Nepetin attenuated RANKL‐induced activation of NF‐κB and MAPK signalling pathways and TRAF6‐dependent ubiquitination of Beclin 1 which is necessary for the induction of autophagy. In brief, our study demonstrates the potential therapeutic application of Nepetin against osteoclast‐mediated osteolytic diseases.
Research Review: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of sex/gender differences in social interaction and communication in autistic and nonautistic children and adolescents
Authors: Wood‐Downie Henry , Wong Bonnie , Kovshoff Hanna , Cortese Samuele , Hadwin Julie A.
Published: November 2020

Background

Evidence increasingly suggests that ASD manifests differently in females than males. Previous reviews investigating sex/gender differences in social interaction and social communication have focused at the level of broad constructs (e.g. comparing algorithm scores from pre‐existing diagnostic instruments) and have typically reported no significant differences between males and females. However, a number of individual studies have found sex/gender differences in narrow construct domains.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and random effects model meta‐analyses (in January 2019 and updated January 2020) that investigated sex/gender differences in narrow construct measures of social communication and interaction in autistic and nonautistic children and adolescents, and adults. Study quality was appraised using the Appraisal Tool for Cross‐Sectional Studies (AXIS, BMJ Open, 6, 2016, 1).

Results

Across 16 studies (including 2,730 participants), the analysis found that female (vs. male) individuals with ASD had significantly better social interaction and social communication skills (SMD = 0.39, p < .001), which was reflective of a similar sex/gender profile in nonautistic individuals (SMD = 0.35, p < .001). Nonautistic males had significantly better social interaction and communication than males with ASD (SMD = 0.77, p < .001). Nonautistic females also had significantly better social interaction and communication than females with ASD (SMD = 0.72, p  <.001). Nonautistic males had better social interaction and communication than females with ASD, though this difference was not significant (SMD = 0.30, p = .07).

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta‐analysis highlighted important sex/gender differences in social interaction and communication for individuals with ASD, likely not captured by pre‐existing diagnostic instruments, which potentially contribute to the under recognition of autism in females, and may need to be reflected in the diagnostic process.
Visual and nonvisual opsin genes of sharks and other nonosteichthyan vertebrates: Genomic exploration of underwater photoreception
Authors: Yamaguchi Kazuaki , Koyanagi Mitsumasa , Kuraku Shigehiro
Published: November 2020

Vision of sharks embraces various biological and ecological themes ranging from predation and adaptation to deep‐sea life. However, behavioural and genetic studies have been limited by their elusive lifestyles, repeatedly reported declines of wild populations, and their unique life‐history traits including low fecundity and enhanced longevity. Sharks have also not been actively studied on the cellular and molecular levels, because of additional difficulties in cell culture, tissue collection and genome sequencing. A recent study circumvented some of these obstacles by means of genome informatics thereby portrayed the variation of visual opsin gene repertoires among elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) and spectral shifts of the rhodopsin pigment. Comprehensive surveys in whole‐genome sequences are also revealing the repertoires of nonvisual opsins with unknown functions. This review is aimed to summarize existing studies on shark opsins with an emphasis on genomic investigation of gene repertoires and to provide insights into the better understanding of underwater ecology of marine megafauna with in vitro experimentation.
Comparative genomic analysis of different virulence strains reveals reasons for the increased virulence of Aeromonas veronii
Authors: Yang Bintong , Chen Chong , Sun Yufeng , Cao Linan , Zhang Dongxing , Sun Wuwen , Zhang Lei , Wang Guiqin , Shan Xiaofeng , Kang Yuanhuan , Qian Aidong
Published: November 2020

Aeromonas veronii is an important zoonotic and aquatic agent. More and more cases have shown that it has caused huge economic losses in the aquaculture industry in addition to threatening human health. But the reasons for the increasing virulence of A. veronii are still unclear. In order to further understand the reasons for the increased virulence of A. veronii, we conducted a comparative analysis of the genomes of A. veronii with different virulence. The analysis revealed that there are multiple virulence factors, such as those related to fimbriae, flagella, toxins, iron ion uptake systems and type II, type III and type VI secretion systems in the virulent strain TH0426 genome. And comparative analysis showed that there were two complete type III secretion systems (API1 and API2), of which the API2 and iron ion transport system were unique to the TH0426 strain. In addition, TH0426 strain also has unique functional gene clusters, which may play important roles in terms of resisting infection, adapting to different environments and genetic evolution. These particular virulence factors and gene clusters may be the important reasons for the increased virulence. These insights will provide a reference for the study of the pathogenesis of A. veronii.
Reply to: Say What?! Ableist Logic Used in Misguided Attempt to Combat Ageism During COVID‐19
Authors: Colenda Christopher C. , Reynolds Charles F. , Applegate William B. , Sloane Philip D. , Zimmerman Sheryl , Newman Anne B. , Meeks Suzanne , Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: November 2020

This letter comments on the letter by Bonnie Lashewicz.
Huperzine‐A administration recovers rat ovary function after sympathetic stress
Authors: Riquelme Raul , Ruz Freddy , Mayerhofer Artur , Lara Hernán E.
Published: November 2020

Chronic cold stress affects ovarian morphology and impairs fertility in rats. It causes an ovarian polycystic ovary (PCOS)‐like phenotype, which resembles PCOS in women. The mechanism of cold stress action involves increased ovarian noradrenaline (NA) levels, which remain elevated after cessation of cold stress. By contrast, ovarian acetylcholine (ACh) levels are only transiently elevated and returned to control levels after a 28‐day post stress period. Because ACh can exert trophic actions in the ovary, we hypothesised that a sustained elevation of ovarian ACh levels by intraovarian exposure to the ACh‐esterase blocker huperzine‐A (Hup‐A) may interfere with cold stress‐induced ovarian changes. This possibility was examined in female Sprague‐Dawley rats exposed to cold stress (4°C for 3 h day‐1 for 28 days), followed by a 28‐day period without stress. To elevate ACh, in a second group Hup‐A was delivered into the ovary of cold stress‐exposed rats. A third group was not exposed to cold stress. As expected, cold stress elevated ovarian NA, reduced the number of corpora lutea and increased the number of follicular cysts. It increased plasma testosterone and oestradiol but decreased plasma levels of progesterone. In the Hup‐A group, ovarian levels of both, NA and ACh, were elevated, there were fewer cysts and normal testosterone and oestradiol plasma levels were found. However, progesterone levels remained low. Most likely, low progesterone was associated with impaired mating behaviour and low pregnancy rate. We propose that elevated intraovarian levels of ACh are involved in the rescue of ovarian function, opening a target to control ovarian diseases affecting follicular development.
Personality and psychopathology: In defense of a practical path toward integrating psychometric and biological approaches to advance a comprehensive model
Authors: Fournier Jay C. , Roberts Nicole J. , Ford Katy Lauren
Published: November 2020

Personality and psychopathology each reflect patterns of internal experience and outward behavior that differ between people and affect functioning. Drawing strict distinctions between the two concepts is not only difficult, but it may prove unnecessary for advancing an integrated model of psychological experiences associated with mental illness. We argue that developing such a model will be critical for improving treatment outcomes, and we discuss a practical path forward. Proponents of psychometric approaches to developing models of psychological experience focus on observable phenotypes and utilize statistical methods to describe patterns of covariation among a broad range of symptoms and dispositions. Advocates of biologically based approaches emphasize neuroscientific tools for identifying abnormalities in brain function that give rise to an individual's experience. There is substantial evidence that measures of personality and measures of symptoms capture nonoverlapping, clinically important information for understanding how and for whom treatments for mental illness work. In this article, we highlight the importance of combining psychometric and neurobiological approaches in order to understand which features of an individual those measures reflect, which aspects of neurobiology generate and maintain those features, how they relate to each other, and critically, how best to alter them to reduce distress and dysfunction.
The early transcriptional responses in rose induced by Bacillus velezensis CLA178 and Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58
Authors: Chen Lin , Liu Huihui , Ma Qinghua
Published: November 2020

Both pathogens and beneficial microbes can induce plant defence responses. However, the defence responses to pathogenic Agrobacterium in Rose genus plants and the gene regulatory pathways induced by plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to resist pathogenic Agrobacterium are not clear. In this study, the growth of rose plants was inhibited by Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58 but promoted by a beneficial rhizobacterium, Bacillus velezensis CLA178. CLA178 also helped rose plants against crown gall disease. To investigate the early response of rose to pathogenic Agrobacterium and PGPR Bacillus, we performed RNA‐seq of rose cells in response to A. tumefaciens C58 and B. velezensis CLA178. The overall transcriptional changes in response to C58 were weaker than those to CLA178, and 93.08% of the transcriptional changes in rose induced by C58 overlapped with the CLA178 profile. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulated in rose cells inoculated with CLA178 but not in those inoculated with C58. The suppression of rose plant defence responses to the pathogen C58 favours its infection. We found that CLA178 triggers rose plant defences by inducing oxidative burst and upregulating the expression of genes related to the stress response and plant–pathogen interactions. In addition, we found that the expression of histone gene families that assist T‐DNA integration into the host genome was decreased by CLA178. The upregulated expression of NRT2.4, LRX6 and CAD1 by CLA178 might contribute to the plant growth promotion by CLA178. The study provides insight into the response of woody plant rose to pathogenic Agrobacterium and a potential mechanism induced by CLA178 against crown gall disease in rose.
Caries disparities among Medicaid‐enrolled young children from pediatric primary care settings
Authors: Selvaraj David , Curtan Shelley , Copeland Tashyana , McNamee Erin , Debelnogich Jelena , Kula Taylor , Momotaz Hasina , Nelson Suchitra
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The objectives of this study are to determine the overall and racial differences in the extent of caries experience and to examine the association between child and parent/caregiver characteristics and caries among 3–6‐year‐old Medicaid‐enrolled children.

Methods

This study reports baseline cross‐sectional data from a larger pragmatic clinical trial in pediatric primary care practices. Child‐level clinical dental exams included decayed and filled teeth (dft) using ICDAS criteria and parent/caregiver questionnaire collected information on socio‐demographics, child oral health behaviors, oral health related quality of life (OHQoL), and food environment.

Results

A total of 1,024 parent/caregiver‐child dyads participated in the study. The overall caries experience (dft) was 49 percent and untreated decay was 42 percent. Children who were Black had 1.3 and 1.2 times significantly higher frequency of untreated primary decay and caries experience compared to non‐Black children. An overall logistic regression model predicted that race, increased age, receiving dental care in the past 12 months for a cavity/toothache, and lower caregiver OHQoL was significantly associated with increased odds of the child having caries. Non‐Black caregivers with less education, whose child was older, and lower child OHQoL had increased odds of having a child with caries, but these same variables were not predictive for the Black children.

Conclusions

Racial disparities exist with respect to caries experience and untreated decay within a Medicaid‐enrolled population of young children attending well‐child visits. Pediatric primary care offices are well‐positioned to provide dental surveillance and preventive care and could play an important role in decreasing oral health inequities.
Prediction of Singular VARs and an Application to Generalized Dynamic Factor Models
Authors: Hörmann Siegfried , Nisol Gilles
Published: November 2020

Vector autoregressive processes (VARs) with innovations having a singular covariance matrix (in short singular VARs) appear naturally in the context of dynamic factor models. Estimating such a VAR is problematic, because the solution of the corresponding equation systems is numerically unstable. For example, if we overestimate the order of the VAR, then the singularity of the innovations renders the Yule‐Walker equation system singular as well. We are going to show that this has a severe impact on accuracy of predictions. While the asymptotic rate of the mean square prediction error is not impacted by this problem, the finite sample behaviour is severely suffering. This effect will be reinforced, if the predictor variables are not coming from the stationary distribution of the process, but contain additional noise. Again, this happens to be the case in context of dynamic factor models. We will explain the reason for this phenomenon and show how to overcome the problem. Our numerical results underline that it is very important to adapt prediction algorithms accordingly.
Copyright issues related to reproduction rights arising from streaming
Authors: Liang Mengna
Published: November 2020

With the rapid development of streaming media technology, more and more people have begun to watch films on streaming websites. However, it has been noted that some of them are streaming unauthorized content, which has posed a major challenge to the entertainment sector's traditional business model. Against this background, legal issues arising from the streaming of media online is an area of huge current interest, one issue being the exact liability of providers and users of streaming services and whether they are infringing on the reproduction right of the copyright holders. Since the liability of platforms has been extensively discussed in the academic literature, in this article we mainly focus on the liability of users who stream unauthorized works. To this end, the article analyses the reproduction act of streaming platform users under the UK and European Union approaches and examines Article 5(1) of the Information Society Directive in the context of streaming. In addition, we explore the liability of users who stream unauthorized content via virtual private network services.
Increased time sampling in an evolve‐and‐resequence experiment with outcrossing Saccharomyces cerevisiae reveals multiple paths of adaptive change
Authors: Phillips Mark A. , Kutch Ian C. , Long Anthony D. , Burke Molly K.
Published: November 2020

“Evolve and resequence” (E&R) studies combine experimental evolution and whole‐genome sequencing to interrogate the genetics underlying adaptation. Due to ease of handling, E&R work with asexual organisms such as bacteria can employ optimized experimental design, with large experiments and many generations of selection. By contrast, E&R experiments with sexually reproducing organisms are more difficult to implement, and design parameters vary dramatically among studies. Thus, efforts have been made to assess how these differences, such as number of independent replicates, or size of experimental populations, impact inference. We add to this work by investigating the role of time sampling—the number of discrete time points sequence data are collected from evolving populations. Using data from an E&R experiment with outcrossing Saccharomyces cerevisiae in which populations were sequenced 17 times over ~540 generations, we address the following questions: (a) Do more time points improve the ability to identify candidate regions underlying selection? And (b) does high‐resolution sampling provide unique insight into evolutionary processes driving adaptation? We find that while time sampling does not improve the ability to identify candidate regions, high‐resolution sampling does provide valuable opportunities to characterize evolutionary dynamics. Increased time sampling reveals three distinct trajectories for adaptive alleles: one consistent with classic population genetic theory (i.e., models assuming constant selection coefficients), and two where trajectories suggest more context‐dependent responses (i.e., models involving dynamic selection coefficients). We conclude that while time sampling has limited impact on candidate region identification, sampling eight or more time points has clear benefits for studying complex evolutionary dynamics.
Attitudes toward telemedicine of patients with Parkinson’s disease during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kurihara Kanako , Nagaki Koichi , Inoue Kotoe , Yamamoto Sumiko , Mishima Takayasu , Fujioka Shinsuke , Ouma Shinji , Tsuboi Yoshio
Published: November 2020

Background

COVID‐19 had spread all over the world by the end of 2019. In Japan, the government declared a state of emergency in March 2020. Although no study has reported it in detail, patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) can be vulnerable to COVID‐19, because they have poor respiratory excursion. Telemedicine is a very effective way of reducing the risk of COVID‐19 infection, as well as reducing the physical, economic, and psychological burden on patients.

Aim

To evaluate PD patients’ inclinations to use telemedicine during the COVID‐19 pandemic, because the start of telemedicine in our hospital was being considered.

Methods

The subjects were 103 PD patients who visited Fukuoka University Hospital between April 1 and May 8, 2020. These patients completed a 15‐item questionnaire survey about telemedicine.

Results

A majority of the patients were aware of the availability of telemedicine (77%) and were inclined to use it (60%). Credit card users (P < .001), smartphone users (P = .006), and those who lived in a region distant from the hospital (P = .006) were significantly inclined to use telemedicine.

Conclusion

In this study, there was an inclination to use telemedicine in a majority of patients with PD during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We believe that the introduction of telemedicine has a multitude of advantages during the pandemic period and beyond.
Blood eosinophil count as predictor of asthma exacerbation. A meta‐analysis
Authors: Mallah Narmeen , Rodriguez‐Segade Santiago , Gonzalez‐Barcala Francisco‐Javier , Takkouche Bahi
Published: November 2020

Background

Evidence about the association of high blood eosinophil count with asthma exacerbation is inconsistent and unclear. The objective of this meta‐analysis was to determine whether elevated blood eosinophil count predicts asthma exacerbation.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and additional databases, without any language restriction. We also checked the reference lists of the included studies and of relevant systematic reviews. The main outcome was the occurrence of asthma exacerbation. We calculated global pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and performed predefined subgroup analyses. We appraised the quality of the studies using Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale, examined the heterogeneity between studies, assessed publication bias, and carried out sensitivity analyses.

Results

Among 1567 retrieved publications, 23 observational studies comprising 155,772 participants met the inclusion criteria. High blood eosinophil count was associated with higher odds of asthma exacerbation [OR: 1.31 (95% CI: 1.16, 1.49)], specifically with asthma‐related outpatient visits [OR: 1.46 (95% CI: 1.25, 1.70)] and emergency department visits [OR: 1.63 (95% CI: 1.29, 2.07)]. A significant association was observed starting from an eosinophils’ cutoff value of 200 cells/μl. The association was observed for cohort studies [OR: 1.30 (95%CI: 1.13, 1.49)], North American studies [OR: 1.43 (95%CI: 1.31, 1.57)], Asian populations [OR: 1.67 (95%CI: 1.34, 2.08)], children [OR: 1.38 (95%CI: 1.22, 1.56)], and studies that adjusted for inhaled corticosteroids therapy [OR: 1.42 (95%CI: 1.28, 1.56)].

Conclusions

Blood eosinophil counts ≥ 200 cells/µL are associated with asthma exacerbation. Blood eosinophil count is a modifiable factor that could be addressed in asthma management strategies.
New Parties, Fractionalization, and the Increasing Duration of Government Formation Processes in the EU Member States
Authors: Morini Marco , Cilento Marco
Published: November 2020

In the last decade, several new parties gained representation in the EU member countries, contributing to additional polarization and fragmentation. This also affected the transfer of power from one government to the next, a period that is sometimes characterized by long negotiations where party leaders bargain over the composition and policy objectives of a new cabinet. Analyzing data for the 28 EU countries, this article shows that since 2008 the time for government formation has noticeably increased in most of the EU countries and, in line with the relevant literature, the index of fractionalization (effective number of parliamentary parties) is its best predictor. We did not find, however, a significant correlation between the electoral success of new parties and increases in the duration of cabinet bargaining.

Related Articles

Kostadinova, Tatiana, and Petia Kostadinova. 2016. “Party Promises, Voter Understanding, and Mandate Responsiveness in East European Politics.”Politics & Policy44 (1): 5‐34.https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12145

Millard, Frances. 2009. “Poland: Parties without a Party System, 1991‐2008.”Politics & Policy37 (4): 781‐798.https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2009.00198.x

Pasquino, Gianfranco. 2014. “Italy: The Triumph of Personalist Parties.”Politics & Policy42 (4): 548‐566.https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12079
Toward Resilient Agriculture Value Chains: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Dong Lingxiu
Published: November 2020

Agriculture value chains are going through a paradigm shift, from efficiency‐driven industrial agriculture to resilience‐focused eco‐friendly agriculture. The nature of the paradigm shift is, to a certain extent, similar to the transformation taking place in many other industries (Lee 2014); its impact on the environment is, however, far‐reaching. This study intends to raise awareness of the challenges and trends in agriculture value chains and explores research opportunities through which operations and supply chain researchers can participate and contribute to the paradigm shift.
Motives Don't Matter? Motive Attribution and Counterterrorism Policy
Authors: Canetti Daphna , Gubler Joshua , Zeitzoff Thomas
Published: November 2020

Across three studies, two experiments, and two different countries (Israel and the United States), we examine how perceptions among members of the public regarding the motives of terrorists' influence support for counterterrorist policy. We find that while perceptions that terrorists are motivated by “hatred” (rather than by a “lack of opportunity”—economic or otherwise) strongly correlate with support for harsher counter‐tactics, and that these perceptions can be changed by providing information from “experts” on the “true” motivations of the outgroup, these changes in perception do not appear to cause change in support for counterterrorism policy. Our findings suggest that among the public, counterterror policy is not as instrumentally driven as much current research assumes.
The Leontief Paradox Redux
Authors: Kiyota Kozo
Published: November 2020

Shortly after Edward E. Leamer found that the Leontief Paradox was based on a simple conceptual misunderstanding in 1980, Richard A. Brecher and Ehsan U. Choudhri in their 1982 article argued that the fact that the United States exported labor services was, in itself, paradoxical because it is true if and only if its per capita consumption is less than the world average. Surprisingly, however, no formal answer to this paradox has been provided for nearly four decades. This paper revisits this paradox and formally shows that the paradox can be resolved if the Heckscher–Ohlin–Vanek model takes into account technology differences across countries and trade imbalance. In contrast, the paradox cannot be resolved even if the analysis takes into account quasi‐homothetic preferences, the Armington home bias, or offshoring.
Measuring the Impact of Clean Energy Production on CO2 Abatement in Denmark: Upper Bound Estimation and Forecasting
Authors: Christensen Bent Jesper , Datta Gupta Nabanita , Santucci de Magistris Paolo
Published: November 2020

Using annual data from 1978 through 2016, and monthly data from January 2005 through November 2017 from Denmark, we provide a precise estimate of the upper bound on the potential impact of the adoption of wind energy on the reduction of CO2 emissions from energy production. We separate causal impacts from endogenous effects in regressions using instrumental variables including average wind speed, and from spurious effects in dynamic systems using impulse-response analysis and cointegration techniques. A one percentage point increase in the share of wind in total energy production is found to cause a reduction in CO2 emissions of the order 0.3%, based on endogeneity-corrected regression, and 0.5% over 2 years in a fractional vector error-correction model, after allowing the cumulative effects to take place. This corresponds to an upper bound estimate of 0.69 tonnes of CO2 emissions avoided per additional MWh of wind energy produced. We find that after a structural break at the time of introduction of the EU ETS and the Kyoto Protocol in 2005, the country has been on track towards meeting its long-term goals for emission reduction and green energy production, but not before.
The role of reward sensitivity and childhood maltreatment in predicting nonsuicidal self‐injury
Authors: Kautz Marin M. , Burke Taylor A. , Siegel David M. , Case Julia , Alloy Lauren B.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Findings from prior research on reward sensitivity in nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) have been mixed. Childhood maltreatment is an independent risk factor for NSSI and for hyposensitivity to rewards. This study aimed to disentangle the role of reward sensitivity as a predictor of NSSI for those with an elevated severity of childhood maltreatment.

Method

In a diverse undergraduate sample (N = 586), trait reward sensitivity (i.e., behavioral approach system subscales) and the severity of maltreatment were assessed as predictors of a lifetime history of NSSI. In a subset of this sample (n = 51), predictors of NSSI urge intensity were measured using ecological momentary assessment.

Results

Individuals with elevated maltreatment who reported less positive responsiveness to rewards were more likely to have a lifetime history of NSSI. Those with elevated maltreatment who reported a lower likelihood to approach rewards experienced more intense NSSI urges across the ten‐day observation period. However, those with elevated maltreatment who reported a greater likelihood to approach rewards experienced less intense NSSI urges.

Conclusions

The role of reward sensitivity as a cognitive risk factor for NSSI varies depending on childhood maltreatment history. Findings indicate that, for those with elevated maltreatment, hypersensitivity to approaching rewards may decrease risk for NSSI urges.
German Learners' Beliefs About Peer Interaction and Peer Feedback
Authors: Sippel Lieselotte
Published: November 2020

The present study investigated learners' beliefs about peer interaction (PI) and peer corrective feedback (PCF) in the language classroom. A group of third‐semester German learners (the –PCF group) participated in peer interaction activities, specifically conversations and discussions with other learners. Another group of third‐semester German learners (the +PCF group) engaged in the same activities and students were encouraged to point out their peers' errors during these activities. Afterward, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with individual learners to gain insights into their beliefs about peer interaction and peer feedback. Interview data from 35 randomly selected learners showed that learners in both groups held positive beliefs about peer interaction and peer feedback. However, results also indicated that learners in the +PCF group felt more comfortable correcting other learners and were more likely to believe their peers' corrections when compared to learners in the –PCF group. Overall, these results suggest that both peer interaction and peer feedback have their place in language classrooms, especially when combined with recent research underscoring their positive effects on language development (e.g., Sato & Lyster, 2012).
Percent recovery of insulin from two different concentrations (3 U/250 mL and 45 U/250 mL) of regular insulin solutions prepared for continuous rate infusion
Authors: Clark Jeannie L. , Rudloff Elke , Rick Markus
Published: November 2020

Objective

To compare the percent recovery of regular insulin prepared for administration as a continuous rate infusion (CRI) using 2 different concentrations, 3 and 45 U in 250 mL 0.9% saline.

Design

In vitro experiment

Setting

Privately‐owned emergency and referral teaching hospital.

Animals

None

Intervention

Commercial 250 mL 0.9% sodium chloride IV fluid bags were injected with either 3 U (solution bag A) or 45 U (solution bag B) of regular insulin. The insulin concentration was measured in each bag. A fluid administration and extension set were connected to each bag and 50 mL was drained through the IV tubing. The insulin concentration was then measured from samples post washout.

Measurements and Main Results

Comparison of the concentration of insulin injected into the bag and concentration of insulin in the bag showed that there was a 29.7 and 37.3% recovery of insulin from solution bag A and solution bag B, respectively. Comparison of the concentration of insulin injected into the bag and concentration of insulin in the post 50‐mL washout samples showed that there was an 11.9 and 30.6% recovery of insulin from bags A and B, respectively.

Conclusions

Substantially more insulin was available after a 50‐mL washout from solution bag B compared to solution bag A. Insulin binding to the IV bag and fluid administration set is likely the cause of this difference.

Clinical Significance

Patients receiving lower concentrations of insulin as a CRI, such as might be prescribed for cats and small dogs may require longer time for resolution of hyperglycemia and ketonemia.
Freedom in Exile: A Linguistic-discursive Analysis of the Representations of the China x Tibet Conflict in the 14th Dalai Lama’s Autobiography
Authors: Santos Thiago Henrique Nunes dos , Barros Solange Maria de
Published: November 2020

This article is part of an undergraduate course paper that studies the autobiography of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, Tenzin Gyatso: Freedom in Exile. We analyse the discursive-linguistic representations of the conflict between China and Tibet within this autobiographical narrative through systemic functional linguistics. We understand the potential of the autobiographical narrative as a means to construe and organize life experiences through language and also giving new meanings to them. In this study we employ the theoretical and methodological apparatus of critical discourse analysis and the philosophy of critical realism in the attempt to understand the representational aspect of the texts. We use a qualitative research approach. The general objective of this study is to analyse the representations that the narrator creates of the contents of his vital experience by privileging and working with the ones that emerge from the conflict between China and Tibet. The specific objectives include: (i) to identify the lexical-grammatical choices regarding the constituents that structure these representations; (ii) to explore autobiographical writing; (iii) to analyse the representations discursively, in order to proceed to an explanatory critique of the discourse; (iv) to discuss and reflect upon the intransitivity of moral values to human emancipation and meta-Reality.
Aero Engine Concepts Beyond 2030: Part 3—Experimental Demonstration of Technological Feasibility
Authors: Schmitz Oliver , Kaiser Sascha , Klingels Hermann , Kufner Petra , Obermüller Martin , Henke Martin , Zanger Jan , Grimm Felix , Schuldt Simon , Marcellan Anna , Cirigliano Daniele , Kutne Peter , Heron-Himmel Alex , Schneider Stephan , Richter Judith , Weigand Bernhard , Göhler-Stroh Anne , Seitz Arne , Hornung Mirko
Published: November 2020

Recognizing the attention currently devoted to the environmental impact of aviation, this three-part publication series introduces two new aircraft propulsion concepts for the timeframe beyond 2030. The first part focuses on the novel steam injecting and recovering aero engine concept. In the second part, the free-piston composite cycle engine (FP-CCE) concept is presented. Complementary to the two technical publications, this third part describes the cooperative project, which was initiated by an interdisciplinary consortium, aiming at the demonstration and the proof-of-concept of both aforementioned aero engine concepts. At the beginning of the project, simulations on propulsion, aircraft system, and test bench level will be conducted. On this basis, preliminary tests and fundamental experiments are planned in order to establish a solid basis for the demonstration. Finally, a system demonstration will be carried out at the laboratory level. Thus, the project allows for a final judgment on both the feasibility of the new concepts and the attainability of the requirements for future aircraft propulsion systems.
Ultrahigh purity conditions for nitride growth with low oxygen content by plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition
Authors: Rayner Gilbert B. , O’Toole Noel , Shallenberger Jeffrey , Johs Blaine
Published: November 2020

Ultrahigh purity (UHP) reactor conditions provide a process environment for growth of nitride thin films with low oxygen content by plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). In particular, UHP conditions correspond to partial pressures below 10−8 Torr for impurities within the PEALD process environment to limit incorporation before, during, and after film growth. In this article, we identify the various sources of background oxygen species and describe the measures taken to obtain UHP reactor conditions. For example, in situ ellipsometry results are presented that reveal the impact of oxygen incorporation on film resistivity during and after titanium nitride PEALD due to elevated levels of oxygen impurities in the argon process gas. A model is also developed that shows the significance of water permeation through elastomer vacuum seals. These examples demonstrate the importance of process gas purification and elimination of elastomer permeation toward achieving a UHP environment. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profile data for titanium, aluminum, and silicon nitride by PEALD reveal bulk oxygen levels below 1 at. %, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of UHP reactor conditions at reducing oxygen incorporation. Consistent with XPS, depth profile secondary ion mass spectroscopy results for titanium nitride PEALD confirm bulk oxygen content less than 1 at. %, further establishing the effectiveness of a UHP background for high purity nitride film growth.
Effect of a Neuropilin-1-Derived Virus Receptor Trap on Enterovirus A71 Infection
In Vitro
Authors: Wang Hsiang-Ching , Huang Peng-Nien , Hung Hui-Chen , Tseng Sung-Nien , Chang Chia-Chia , Tsai Ya-Ru , Wang Yun-Ming , Shih Shin-Ru , Hsu John Tsu-An
Published: November 2020

We discovered that neuropilin 1 (NRP1) is a new receptor candidate to mediate enterovirus A71 (EVA71) into cells. In the engineered form as a decoy receptor, NRP1 was able to recognize and neutralize EVA71 but not enterovirus D68 or coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3). NRP1 recognizes EVA71 through a novel domain on the VP3 capsid protein. The principle in the design, engineering, and refinement of the NRP1-based decoy receptor described in this study represents a general and well-suited antiviral strategy.
Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry Detection of Antibiotic Agents in Sputum from Persons with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Gallagher Tara , Riedel Stefan , Kapcia Joseph , Caverly Lindsay J. , Carmody Lisa , Kalikin Linda M. , Lu Junnan , Phan Joann , Gargus Matthew , Kagawa Miki , Leemans Simon W. , Rothman Jason A. , Grun Felix , LiPuma John J. , Whiteson Katrine L.
Published: November 2020

Antibiotic therapy is expected to impact host microbial communities considerably, yet many studies focused on microbiome and health are often confounded by limited information about antibiotic exposure. Given that antibiotics have diverse pharmacokinetic and antimicrobial properties, investigating the type and concentration of these agents in specific host specimens would provide much needed insight into their impact on the microbes therein. Here, we developed liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) methods to detect 18 antibiotic agents in sputum from persons with cystic fibrosis.
Dissecting Herpes Simplex Virus 1-Induced Host Shutoff at the RNA Level
Authors: Friedel Caroline C. , Whisnant Adam W. , Djakovic Lara , Rutkowski Andrzej J. , Friedl Marie-Sophie , Kluge Michael , Williamson James C. , Sai Somesh , Vidal Ramon Oliveira , Sauer Sascha , Hennig Thomas , Grothey Arnhild , Milić Andrea , Prusty Bhupesh K. , Lehner Paul J. , Matheson Nicholas J. , Erhard Florian , Dölken Lars
Published: November 2020

The HSV-1 virion host shutoff (
vhs
) protein efficiently cleaves both host and viral mRNAs in a translation-dependent manner. In this study, we model and quantify changes in
vhs
activity, as well as virus-induced global loss of host transcriptional activity, during productive HSV-1 infection. In general, HSV-1-induced alterations in total RNA levels were dominated by these two global effects. In contrast, chromatin-associated RNA depicted gene-specific transcriptional changes. This revealed highly concordant transcriptional changes in WT and
Δvhs
infections, confirmed DUX4 as a key transcriptional regulator in HSV-1 infection, and identified
vhs
-dependent transcriptional downregulation of the integrin adhesome and extracellular matrix components. The latter explained seemingly gene-specific effects previously attributed to
vhs
-mediated mRNA degradation and resulted in a concordant loss in protein levels by 8 h p.i. for many of the respective genes.
Enterovirus D68 Protease 2AproTargets TRAF3 To Subvert Host Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Kang Jun , Pang Zheng , Zhou Zhenwei , Li Xianhuang , Liu Sihua , Cheng Jinyan , Liu Peiyuan , Tan Wenjie , Wang Zhiyun , Wang Tao
Published: November 2020

Human enterovirus 68 (EV-D68) has received considerable attention recently as a global reemergent pathogen because it causes severe respiratory tract infections and acute flaccid myelitis. The nonstructural protein 2A protease (2Apro) of EV, which functions in cleavage of host proteins, comprises an essential part of the viral immune evasion process. However, the pathogenic mechanism of EV-D68 is not fully understood. Here, we show for the first time that EV-D68 inhibited antiviral type I interferon responses by cleaving tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3). Furthermore, we identified the key cleavage site in TRAF3. Our study may suggest a new mechanism by which the 2Aproof EV facilitates subversion of host innate immune responses. These findings increase our understanding of EV-D68 infection and may help identify new antiviral targets against EV-D68.
SPOR Proteins Are Required for Functionality of Class A Penicillin-Binding Proteins in Escherichia coli
Authors: Pazos Manuel , Peters Katharina , Boes Adrien , Safaei Yalda , Kenward Calem , Caveney Nathanael A. , Laguri Cedric , Breukink Eefjan , Strynadka Natalie C. J. , Simorre Jean-Pierre , Terrak Mohammed , Vollmer Waldemar
Published: November 2020

Escherichia coli
has four SPOR proteins that bind peptidoglycan, of which FtsN is essential for cell division. DamX and DedD are suggested to have semiredundant functions in cell division based on genetic evidence. Here, we solved the structure of the SPOR domain of DedD, and we show that both DamX and DedD interact with and stimulate the synthetic activity of the peptidoglycan synthases PBP1A and PBP1B, suggesting that these class A PBP enzymes act in concert with peptidoglycan-binding proteins during cell division.
Supplemental Material: Profiling interactions between the Westerlies and Asian summer monsoons since 45 ka: Insights from biomarker, isotope, and numerical modeling studies in the Qaidam Basin
Authors: Hou Mingqiu , Zhuang Guangsheng , al. et
Published: November 2020

Figures S1–S2 and Tables S1–S3.
Palladium Nanoparticles in Hypercrosslinked Polystyrene:
Synthesis and Application in the Hydrogenation of Arenes
Authors: Lyubimov S. E. , Zvinchuk A. A. , Korlyukov A. A. , Davankov V. A. , Parenago O. P.
Published: November 2020

A novel method for incorporation of palladium nanoparticles into a porous
hypercrosslinked polystyrene matrix has been developed. The composite obtained
by reduction of [Pd(π-allyl)Cl]2 with hydrogen in
supercritical CO2 shows high catalytic activity in the
hydrogenation of benzene and can be used twelve (12) times in a row without any
decrease in conversion rate. The catalyst is also suitable for quantitative
hydrogenation of toluene, tetralin and phenol. The obtained catalytic system is
compared with the palladium composite synthesized by a conventional method based
on hypercrosslinked polystyrene.
Improvement in time to treatment, but not time to diagnosis, in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type I
Authors: Giugliani Roberto , Muschol Nicole , Keenan Hillary A. , Dant Mark , Muenzer Joseph
Published: November 2020

Objective

Early diagnosis and treatment initiation are important factors for successful treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I). The purpose of this observational study was to assess whether age at diagnosis and time to first treatment for individuals with MPS I have improved over the last 15 years.

Study design

Data from the MPS I Registry (NCT00144794) for individuals with attenuated or severe disease who initiated therapy with laronidase enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2017 were included.

Results

Data were available for 740 individuals with attenuated (n=291) or severe (n=424) MPS I (unknown n=25). Median age at diagnosis for attenuated disease did not change over time and ranged between 4.5 and 6 years of age while the median duration from diagnosis to first ERT decreased from 5.6 years before/during 2004 to 2.4 months in 2014–2017. For severe MPS I treated with HSCT, median age at diagnosis was less than 1 year and median time to first treatment was less than 3 months throughout the 15-year observation period.

Conclusions

Times to diagnosis and HSCT initiation for individuals with severe MPS I were consistent over time. For individuals with attenuated MPS I, the time to ERT initiation after diagnosis has improved substantially in the last 15 years, but median age at diagnosis has not improved. Efforts to improve early diagnosis in attenuated MPS I are needed to ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment at the optimal time.
Oesophageal lung: a rare cause of complete hemithorax opacification
Authors: Badhe Padma Vikram , Bairy Abhishek , Huruli Karthik Shivappa
Published: November 2020

Congenital bronchopulmonary foregut anomalies are uncommon group of disorders that reflect upon the embryological development of the foregut. These conditions represent the intimate embryological proximity of the foregut and tracheobronchial tree. The radiological findings are typically of segmental or lobar consolidation with abnormal vascular supply or foregut communication. We report a case of a breathless neonate with oesophageal origin of the right main bronchus. This communication was well demonstrated with the help of an oesophagogram. The radiologist plays an important role by identifying this communication on a CT done for non-resolving lung collapse. Contrast-enhanced CT of the chest is also useful in evaluating the vascular supply of the lung that helps in diagnosis and also directs treatment.
Oral ulcerations in a patient with autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES)
Authors: Borst Johanna , Ma Lawrence
Published: November 2020

A 23-year-old woman with autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome complicated by recurrent pneumonia and sinusitis presented with 1 week of multiple painful oral ulcers unresponsive to empiric antiviral and antifungal treatment. Her ulcers progressively worsened and she required hospitalisation for intravenous hydration and pain control. PCR swab of an ulcer was positive for varicella-zoster virus. Her symptoms never fully resolved despite antiviral therapy, and within 2 weeks, she relapsed with new and worsening ulcers. Biopsy revealed chronic active inflammation with no evidence of viral inclusion bodies or fungal hyphae. She was diagnosed with recurrent aphthous stomatitis and referred to a local dentist for CO2laser treatments with rapid resolution of her symptoms. This case highlights the broad differential for recurrent oral ulcers in people with a primary immunodeficiency. It also raises awareness of the benefits of laser therapy for aphthous stomatitis treatment and the importance of partnering with our colleagues in dentistry.
Acute right ventricular failure: a novel presentation of methadone-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Taha Mohamad Badie , Dasa Osama , Al-Ani Mohammad , Taha Omar B , Radhakrishnan Nila S , Ahmed Mustafa M
Published: November 2020

As methadone use increases, the potential for methadone-induced cardiotoxicity (MIC) may rise. We describe a case of acute right ventricular (RV) failure leading to cardiogenic shock after methadone overdose. This presentation was followed by full RV recovery. This previously undescribed presentation highlights the challenges involved with MIC, its diagnosis and its management.