bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil organic carbon sequestration and its stability after vegetation restoration in the Loess Hilly Region, China
Authors: Xu Hongwei , Qu Qing , Wang Minggang , Li Peng , Li Yuanze , Xue Sha , Liu Guobin
Published: November 2019

Vegetation restoration is widely recognized as a way to improve soil organic carbon (SOC) stock. However, whether these recovered carbons are stable is yet largely uncertain. Thus, we determined the sequestration and stability of SOC in soils with three different types (Caragana korshinskii (CA) aged for 10, 20, 36, and 47 years, Hippophae rhamnoides (HR) aged for 5, 10, 20, and 30 years, and Robinia pseudoacacia (RP) aged for 5, 10, 20, 37, and 56 years) to compare their SOC sequestration and stability in different depths in this study. The SOC content, SOC stock, very labile fraction of oxidizable carbon (C1), labile fraction of oxidizable carbon (C2), and carbon management index (CMI) in 0–30 cm depths of the three types increased over the chronosequence. The SOC stocks increased by 1.40–3.19 Mg ha−1 in CA during the 47‐year restoration, by 5.76–10.01 Mg ha−1 in HR during the 30‐year restoration and by 1.88–8.93 Mg ha−1 in RP during the 56‐year restoration, respectively, in 0–30 cm depths. The carbon stability index (SI) in 0–10 cm depth of CA, 0–30 cm depths of HR, and 0–50 cm depths of RP decreased with recovery time. Over the recovery time, SOC content, SOC stock, CMI, and SI were lower than those of nature forest (NF aged more than 100 years) in all restored sites at the later stage of recovery. SOC sequestration decreased, but its stability increased, with the soil depths. Overall, HR had a higher SOC sequestration rate and lower SI (0–30 cm) than CA and RP. Our results revealed that although the SOC sequestration appears enhanced over the restoration, but the SOC stability becomes lower, so that the recovery of these site to the level of NF may meet difficulties in this semiarid Loess Hilly Region.
Capillary Refill—The Key to Assessing Dermal Capillary Capacity and Pathology in Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Casper M. J. , Glahn J. , Evers M. , Schulz‐Hildebrandt H. , Kositratna G. , Birngruber R. , Hüttmann G. , Manstein D.
Published: November 2019

Background/Objectives

Standard optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has been limited to imaging blood vessels actively undergoing perfusion, providing a temporary picture of surface microvasculature. Capillary perfusion in the skin is dynamic and changes in response to the surrounding tissue's respiratory, nutritional, and thermoregulatory needs. Hence, OCTA often represents a given perfusion state without depicting the actual extent of the vascular network. Here we present a method for obtaining a more accurate anatomic representation of the surface capillary network in human skin using OCTA, along with proposing a new parameter, the Relative Capillary Capacity (RCC), a quantifiable proxy for assessing capillary dilation potential and permeability.

Methods

OCTA images were captured at baseline and after compression of the skin. Baseline images display ambient capillary perfusion, while images taken upon capillary refill display the network of existing capillaries at full capacity. An optimization‐based automated vessel segmentation method was used to automatically analyze and compare OCTA image sequences obtained from two volunteers. RCC was then compared with visual impressions of capillary viability.

Results

Our OCTA imaging sequence provides a method for mapping cutaneous capillary networks independent of ambient perfusion. Differences between baseline and refill images clearly demonstrate the shortcomings of standard OCTA imaging and produce the RCC biometric as a quantifiable proxy for assessing capillary dilation potential and permeability.

Conclusion

Future dermatological OCTA diagnostic studies should implement the Capillary Refill Methods over standard imaging techniques and further explore the relevance of RCC to differential diagnosis and dermatopathology. Lasers Surg. Med. © The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hepatocyte‐Specific Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Based Assessment of Indeterminate Hepatic Nodules in the Liver Transplant Evaluation of Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Kim Ha Il , Jang Jong Keon , Lim Jihye , Chang Seheon , An Jihyun , Kang Hyo Jeong , Song Gi‐Won , Lee Sung‐Gyu , Kim So Yeon , Shim Ju Hyun
Published: November 2019

We aimed to determine the identities in explants of indeterminate hepatic nodules (IDNs) that had been scanned by dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to establish clinicoradiological parameters predicting which IDNs were hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). This study included 88 patients with cirrhosis who underwent gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI in pre–liver transplantation (LT) workup followed within 90 days by primary LT. The MRI detected 168 hepatic nodules that were classified into 6 benign tumors, 49 HCCs, and 113 IDNs, in 5, 34, and 72 patients, respectively. We compared these pre‐LT radiologic diagnoses and stagings with explant pathology on a per‐lesion basis to enable us to identify features of IDNs related to malignancy. Of the 168 nodules seen on MRI, 119 that were classified radiologically as consisting of 1 benign nodule (33.3%), 46 HCCs (93.9%), and 72 IDNs (63.7%) all turned out to be pathological HCCs. Of 32 patients inside Milan and 54 without HCC staged by MRI, 11 progressed beyond the criteria after LT. High serum alpha‐fetoprotein level (≥20 ng/mL) was the only per‐patient factor significantly associated with malignant IDNs. Per‐tumor analysis of the MRI signals revealed that arterial hyperintensity, hepatobiliary hypointensity, T2‐weighted mild‐to‐moderate intensity, and restricted diffusion‐weighted images were significantly correlated with malignant IDN. A model combining these 4 MRI factors with alpha‐fetoprotein level had the best performance in predicting the identification of IDNs as HCCs in explanted livers. Over 60% of the IDNs seen on dynamic images of cirrhotic livers proved to be HCCs when explanted livers were examined. It may therefore be possible to identify HCCs with reasonable accuracy by means of their hepatocyte‐specific MRI features when patients are being assessed for LT.
Textile‐Compatible, Electroactive Polyvinylidene Fluoride Electrospun Mats for Energy Harvesting
Authors: Forouharshad Mahdi , King Simon G. , Buxton Wesley , Kunovski Philip , Stolojan Vlad
Published: November 2019

Polymer piezoelectric nanogenerators have attracted attention for mechanical energy harvesting, for powering wearable electronics and movement sensing applications. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a flexible and efficient electroactive polymer, however, it is a polymorph for which only two phases (of five) are piezoelectric. Herein are produced breathable and flexible textile‐compatible electroactive mats via electrospinning, and the polymorphism of PVDF nanofibers during deposition is controlled, rather than post‐fabrication, meaning that this process is directly compatible with textile manufacturing. The electrospinning process combines mechanical stretching and electrical poling and results in the alignment of dipoles in the nanofibers. The local stretching of polymer chains at each position on the fibre point impacts the polymorph relative content in that area. It is found that finer PVDF fibres (ø < 50 nm) have a lower electroactive crystal phase content compared to medium thickness‐range fibres (100 nm < ø < 500 nm), whilst thicker fibres (ø > 1000 nm) show distinct areas of lower (fibres with beading) and higher (smooth fibres) electroactive phase content. Ultimately, fibrous mats produced using solutions with a high polymer concentration have a lower bead content and the most uniform medium‐range fibre thickness, consequently resulting in the highest content of the electroactive phase.
Chemical Composition of Hexene‐Based Linear Low‐Density Polyethylene by Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Boyron Olivier , Taam Manel , Boisson Christophe
Published: November 2019

Mid and near infrared (MIR and NIR) spectroscopy associated with the partial least squares (PLS) method makes it possible to rapidly characterize the composition of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) in a large range of 1‐hexene content from 0 to 21 mol%. LLDPEs are produced using zirconocene catalysts activated with methylaluminoxane. PLS regression methods for MIR and NIR are constructed from this series of LLDPEs to quantify the 1‐hexene content in unknown copolymers. In this case, the PLS regression method aims to correlate the 1‐hexene content in the copolymers with their IR spectra. Multivariate calibration models are constructed by the PLS algorithm on pretreated data of MIR and NIR analyses. They are tested and validated by comparing results obtained by nuclear magnetic resonance and the PLS analyses for four unknown ethylene‐1‐hexene copolymers.
On closed Lie ideals of certain tensor products of C∗‐algebras II
Authors: Gupta Ved Prakash , Jain Ranjana , Talwar Bharat
Published: November 2019

We identify all closed Lie ideals of and , where is either the Haagerup tensor product, the Banach space projective tensor product or the operator space projective tensor product, A is any simple ‐algebra, B is any ‐algebra with one of them admitting no tracial states, and H is an infinite dimensional separable Hilbert space. Further, generalizing a result of Marcoux, we also identify all closed Lie ideals of , where A is a simple ‐algebra with at most one tracial state and B is any commutative ‐algebra.
LABEL‐FREE BIO‐AFFINITY MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR SCREENING AND LOCATING BIOACTIVE MOLECULES
Authors: Tao Yi , Yan Jizhong , Cai Baochang
Published: November 2019

Despite the recent increase in the development of bioactive molecules in the drug industry, the enormous chemical space and lack of productivity are still important issues. Additional alternative approaches to screen and locate bioactive molecules are urgently needed. Label‐free bio‐affinity mass spectrometry (BA‐MS) provides opportunities for the discovery and development of innovative drugs. This review provides a comprehensive portrayal of BA‐MS techniques and of their applications in screening and locating bioactive molecules. After introducing the basic principles, alongside some application notes, the current state‐of‐the‐art of BA‐MS‐assisted drug discovery is discussed, including native MS, size‐exclusion chromatography‐MS, ultrafiltration‐MS, solid‐phase micro‐extraction‐MS, and cell membrane chromatography‐MS. Finally, several challenges and limitations of the current methods are summarized, with a view to potential future directions for BA‐MS‐assisted drug discovery. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev
Early‐Stage Parkinson's Patients Show Selective Impairment in Reactive But Not Proactive Inhibition
Authors: Di Caprio Veronica , Modugno Nicola , Mancini Christian , Olivola Enrica , Mirabella Giovanni
Published: November 2019

Background

It is well known that a deficit in inhibitory control is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, inhibition is not a unitary construct, and it is unclear whether patients in the early stage of the disease (Hoehn and Yahr stage 1) exhibit a deficit in outright stopping (reactive inhibition), a deficit in the ability to shape their response strategies according to the context (proactive inhibition), or both.

Objective

We assessed whether PD patients at Hoehn and Yahr stage 1 show a global or selective impairment in inhibitory control. As it has been suggested that inhibition relies upon a right‐lateralized pathway, we tested whether left‐dominant PD patients suffered from a more severe deficit in this executive function than right‐dominant PD patients.

Methods

Via a reaching stop‐signal task, we assessed both proactive and reactive inhibition in 17 left‐dominant PD and 17 right‐dominant PD patients and in 24 age‐matched participants.

Results

We found that reactive inhibition was more impaired in PD patients than in healthy participants. However, proactive inhibition was not affected. Furthermore, we found no differences between left‐dominant PD and right‐dominant PD patients.

Conclusions

For the first time, we found evidence for a deficit of reactive inhibition in the early‐stage PD patients in the absence of evidence for deficits in proactive inhibition. These findings have clinical relevance as they provide critical insights on the time course of the disease. In addition, we confirmed, on a population of PD patients at Hoehn and Yahr stage 1, previous results showing that the onset of the disease does not affect inhibition. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A new frameshift mutation in L1CAM producing X‐linked hydrocephalus
Authors: Kong Weiqi , Wang Xueyan , Zhao Jing , Kang Min , Xi Na , Li Shengmei
Published: November 2019

Background

X‐linked hydrocephalus (XLH), characterized by mental retardation and bilateral adducted thumbs, often come out to be a genetic disorder of L1CAM. It codes the protein L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM), playing a crucial role in the development of the nervous system. The objective of the study was to report a new disease‐causing mutation site of L1CAM, and gain further insight into the pathophysiology of hydrocephalus.

Methods

We collect the samples of a couple and their second hydrocephalic fetus. Then, the whole‐exome sequencing and in‐depth mutation analysis were performed.

Results

The variant c.2491delG (p.V831fs), located in the exon 19 of L1CAM (chrX:153131214), could damage the L1CAM function by producing a frameshift in the translation of fibronectin type‐III of L1CAM.

Conclusion

We identified a novel disease‐causing mutation in L1CAM for the first time, which further confirmed L1CAM as a gene underlying XLH cases.
Prenatal whole exome sequencing detects a new homozygous fukutin (FKTN) mutation in a fetus with an ultrasound suspicion of familial Dandy–Walker malformation
Authors: Traversa Alice , Bernardo Silvia , Paiardini Alessandro , Giovannetti Agnese , Marchionni Enrica , Genovesi Maria Luce , Guadagnolo Daniele , Torres Barbara , Paolacci Stefano , Bernardini Laura , Mazza Tommaso , Carella Massimo , Caputo Viviana , Pizzuti Antonio
Published: November 2019

Background

Posterior fossa malformations are among the most diagnosed central nervous system (CNS) anomalies detected by ultrasound (US) in prenatal age. We identified the pathogenic gene mutation in a male fetus of 17 weeks of gestation with US suspicion of familial Dandy–Walker spectrum malformation, using Next Generation Sequencing approach in prenatal diagnosis.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing (WES) approach has been performed on fetal genomic DNA. After reads preprocessing, mapping, variant calling, and annotation, a filtering strategy based on allelic frequency, recessive inheritance, and phenotypic ontologies has been applied. A fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 18 weeks of gestation has been performed. An in silico analysis of a potential causative missense variant in the fukutin protein has been carried out through a structural modeling approach.

Results

We identified a new homozygous missense mutation in fukutin gene (FKTN, NM_006731.2: c.898G>A; NP_006722.2: p.Gly300Arg). Fetal MRI supported molecular findings. Structural modeling analyses indicated a potential pathogenetic mechanism of the variant, through a reduced activation of the sugar moieties, which in turn impairs transfer to dystroglycan and thus its glycosylation. These findings pointed to a redefinition of the US suspicion of recurrence of Dandy–Walker malformation (DWM) to a muscular dystrophy‐dystroglycanopathy type A4.

Conclusions

The present case confirmed WES as a reliable tool for the prenatal identification of the molecular bases of early‐detected CNS malformations.
Defected waveguide structure designs and characteristics
Authors: Chin Shu J. , Abd. Aziz Mohamad Z. A. , Ahmad Mohd R.
Published: November 2019

This article presented defected waveguide structure (DWS) designs and characteristics with microstrip‐fed circular monopole antenna for ultrawideband applications. Typically, waveguide is often designed and employed as antenna and filter application in its rigid dimension. The reconfigurable design toward the waveguide in terms of structural alteration with DWS was found less concerned among researchers although defected ground structure and defected microstrip structure have been applied widely. The motivation of this article was to propose the different DWS designs and characteristics in terms of the S‐parameters result. DWS in basic square geometry with different configurations of straight lines were introduced and compared with FR4 substrate waveguide. Simulated S‐parameters results were modeled in terms of equivalent circuit and measured for validation. For practical measurement, waveguide ports at both open‐ended surface of waveguide were replaced by the monopole antenna. For the modeled S‐parameters results, the square DWS design and square DWS with horizontal straight lines showed quite similar characteristics with higher S11 and lower S21 above frequency 9 GHz. Whereas square DWS with vertical straight lines and square DWS with both horizontal vertical straight lines showed higher S11 and lower S21 below frequency 3.5 GHz. Square DWS with vertical straight lines achieved the lowest S21 around −70 dB below 3.5 GHz and lower S21 around −50 dB at frequency 10.3 GHz. Thus, DWS is proposed for the future smart antenna technology as it can be further modified to meet the different requirements without changing the antenna configuration.
Economic value of conservation biological control for management of the Asian citrus psyllid, vector of citrus Huanglongbing disease
Authors: Monzó Cesar , Stansly Philip A
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Huanglongbing (HLB) is the most devastating disease associated with citrus, transmitted by its principal vector Diaphorina citri, the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP). At present, the only effective action against this pathosystem is vector management. Owing to the severity of HLB, vector management mostly relies on highly frequent insecticide applications. While this strategy may be able to maintain the economic viability of citrus operations in the short term, it raises numerous concerns for the development of D. citri insecticide resistance as well as further impacts to human health and environmental sustainability.

The present study estimates and allocates HLB management costs resulting from the loss of ACP conservation biological control (CBC) within vector‐intensive insecticide management regimes. Scenarios under different degrees of CBC were simulated and vector populations were estimated. CBC costs were calculated by subtracting the total HLB related costs of the scenarios with high ACP biological control to those of the scenarios with no or low biological control.

RESULTS

We have estimated that an agroecosystem without an effective CBC management program for the suppression of ACP would result in predicted economical loss ranging from $1150 to $2000 per hectare. The proposed model translates to a total economic loss of approximately $300 million to Florida's citrus industry per season (36.42% of total Florida processed oranges production value).

CONCLUSION

These results help to identify the long‐term viability of the HLB management strategies currently implemented and highlight the urgency of finding a definitive and sustainable solution to HLB. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Flavonoids as anticancer therapies: A systematic review of clinical trials
Authors: Bisol Ângela , de Campos Paloma Santos , Lamers Marcelo Lazzaron
Published: November 2019

Flavonoids have been proposed as potential chemotherapeutic agents because they are toxic against cancer cells but not harmful to healthy cells. This systematic review analyzed flavonoid effectiveness in human cancer chemotherapy. Overall, 22 phase II and 1 phase III clinical trials (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) that used flavonoids as a single agent or combined with other therapeutics against hematopoietic/lymphoid or solid cancer published by January 2019 were selected for analysis. Flavopiridol was the most commonly used flavonoid (at a dose of 50‐mg/m2 IV) for all tumor types. Aside from the relatively low rate of complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) with any administration protocol, flavonoids showed higher positive outcomes for hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues (140 patients with CR and 88 with PR among 615 patients in 11 trials) than for solid tumors (4 patients with CR and 21 with PR among 525 patients in 12 trials). However, because of the high variety in administration schedule, more studies are needed to further understand how flavonoids can promote positive outcomes for cancer patients.
Alternative Synthesis Method for Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ilnicka Anna , Lukaszewicz Jerzy P.
Published: November 2019

It is demonstrated that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be synthetized on the surface of an example carbon background, activated carbon, using the thermal conversion of poly(furfuryl alcohol) (PFA). This newly discovered CNTs synthesis method is an alternative solution to previously known methods, e.g., chemical vapor deposition, arc discharge, and laser ablation. Scanning electron microscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy images deliver direct evidence of CNT formation through the thermal degradation of PFA in a temperature range of 500–700 °C. The discovered process consists of the free growth of CNTs from PFA without any mechanical patterning, casting, or molding. CNTs obtained in this manner resemble MWCNTs in size, though according to microscopic investigation the tubes do not possess the well‐developed layered structure of MWCNTs. Nonetheless, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy studies fully confirm that carbon (C) is the main elemental constituent of the tubes (C atomic content above 85%) and C atoms are structured in a manner typical of defected CNTs (D, G, and G' intensity ratios).
Nanocages of Polymeric Carbon Nitride from Low‐Temperature Supramolecular Preorganization for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wang Jiu , Cao Shaowen , Yu Jiaguo
Published: November 2019

Polymeric carbon nitride (CN) is considered as one of the most promising photocatalysts to solve energy and environmental crises by solar‐to‐fuel conversion. However, the traditional thermal condensation of monomers usually leads to the disorganized agglomerate structure with a high recombination rate of electron–hole pairs. Herein, the effective synthesis of CN using supramolecular complexes of melamine and cyanuric acid with strengthened hydrogen bonding is presented, which are treated under freeze‐drying conditions as precursors. The as‐prepared CN exhibits a unique nanocage structure, which facilitates the scattering and reflection of incident light and improves the light‐harvesting efficiency. The charge transfer and CO2 adsorption of CNs is improved because of the extended π‐delocalization, conjugated aromatic system with more exposed lone‐pair electrons and a relatively enlarged specific surface area, caused by the more stretchable and distorted structure of CNs. Consequently, the nanocage‐like CN shows improved performance for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. This work provides a protocol for tailoring the microstructure of CNs via tuning the weak intermolecular interaction, with the aim of designing high‐performance CN‐based photocatalysts.
On the kinematic algebra for BCJ numerators beyond the MHV sector
Authors: Chen Gang , Johansson Henrik , Teng Fei , Wang Tianheng
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The duality between color and kinematics present in scattering amplitudes of Yang-Mills theory strongly suggests the existence of a hidden kinematic Lie algebra that controls the gauge theory. While associated BCJ numerators are known on closed forms to any multiplicity at tree level, the kinematic algebra has only been partially explored for the simplest of four-dimensional amplitudes: up to the MHV sector. In this paper we introduce a framework that allows us to characterize the algebra beyond the MHV sector. This allows us to both constrain some of the ambiguities of the kinematic algebra, and better control the generalized gauge freedom that is associated with the BCJ numerators. Specifically, in this paper, we work in dimension-agnostic notation and determine the kinematic algebra valid up to certain 𝒪 ((εi · εj)2) terms that in four dimensions compute the next-to-MHV sector involving two scalars. The kinematic algebra in this sector is simple, given that we introduce tensor currents that generalize standard Yang-Mills vector currents. These tensor currents control the generalized gauge freedom, allowing us to generate multiple different versions of BCJ numerators from the same kinematic algebra. The framework should generalize to other sectors in Yang-Mills theory.
Quantum impurity models from conformal field theory
Authors: Wu Ying-Hai , Tu Hong-Hao
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The coupling between localized magnetic moments and itinerant electrons presents a plethora of interesting physics. The low-energy physics of some quantum impurity systems can be described using conformal field theory (CFT). In this paper, the connection between quantum impurity models and CFT is further strengthened as we construct a class of exactly solvable models with ground states given by CFT correlators. The method developed here is completely analytical and can be applied to fermions with an arbitrary number of colors and multiple impurities. Numerical calculations are performed to characterize certain aspects of our models for which we do not have analytical results.
Wall-crossing and operator ordering for ’t Hooft operators in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 gauge theories
Authors: Hayashi Hirotaka , Okuda Takuya , Yoshida Yutaka
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We study half-BPS ’t Hooft line operators in 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 U(N ) gauge theories on S1× ℝ3 with an Ω-deformation. The recently proposed brane construction of ’t Hooft operators shows that non-perturbative contributions to their correlator are identified with the Witten indices of quiver supersymmetric quantum mechanics. For the products of minimal ’t Hooft operators, a chamber in the space of Fayet-Iliopoulos parameters in the quantum mechanics corresponds to an ordering of the operators inserted along a line. These considerations lead us to conjecture that the Witten indices can be read off from the Moyal products of the expectation values of the minimal ’t Hooft operators, and also that wall- crossing occurs in the quantum mechanics only when the ordering of the operators changes. We confirm the conjectures by explicitly computing the Witten indices for the products of two and three minimal ’t Hooft operators in all possible chambers.
On finite-size d-branes in superstring theory
Authors: Mattiello Luca , Sachs Ivo
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We test exact marginality of the deformation describing the blow-up of a zero- size D(−1) brane bound to a background of D3-branes by analyzing the equations of motion of superstring field theory to third order in the size. In the process we review the derivation of the instanton profile from string theory, extending it to include α′-corrections.
Differential autogrooming response to the tracheal mite Acarapis woodi by the honey bees Apis cerana and Apis mellifera
Authors: Sakamoto Y. , Maeda T. , Yoshiyama M. , Konno F. , Pettis J. S.
Published: November 2019

The infestation of honey bees by the endoparasitic tracheal miteAcarapis woodiwas first discovered inApis melliferaon the Isle of Wight, England, and the mite has since spread to all continents except Australia. Since 2010, this tracheal mite has spread rapidly in the Japanese honey bee,Apis cerana japonica, of mainland Japan, causing considerable colony mortality. In contrast, infestations by the mites in the imported and managed European honey bee,A. mellifera, have rarely been observed in Japan. A previous laboratory experiment revealed a difference in susceptibility by demonstrating that the tracheal mite more frequently enters tracheae ofA. ceranathan those ofA. mellifera. In this study, we compared autogrooming responses ofA. ceranaandA. melliferaby depositing a mite on each honey bee’s mesoscutum, and we then assessed the efficacy of autogrooming to remove the mite. The bees that received mites more frequently showed an autogrooming response compared to unchallenged bees in both bee species. However, a significantly greater proportion ofA. melliferaindividuals autogroomed compared toA. cerana. In addition, when bees autogroomed,A. melliferaremoved the tracheal mite more effectively thanA. cerana. When considering all bees in the mite-deposited group, the proportion of mite removal inA. melliferawas almost twice as high as that inA. cerana. Thus, the difference in susceptibility to the tracheal mite between these two bee species is attributed to the difference in the behavioral response threshold to mites and the effectiveness of mite removal by grooming.
Development of immunochromatographic device as a point-of-care tool for serodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis cases
Authors: Sadaow Lakkhana , Sanpool Oranuch , Rodpai Rutchanee , Boonroumkaew Patcharaporn , Maleewong Wanchai , Intapan Pewpan M.
Published: November 2019

Human strongyloidiasis is an important gastrointestinal disease with an estimated 30 to 100 million people infected. Prevalence is generally underestimated since many infections are asymptomatic, and traditional diagnostic tests based on parasitological examination of stool samples are not adequately sensitive. Serological tests are useful and supportive but are still only available in a reference research setting. We made an immunochromatographic test (ICT) kit for rapid serodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis. The antigen used in the ICT kit was extracted from larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis. Diagnostic efficacy of the kit was evaluated using human serum samples from strongyloidiasis patients, healthy persons, and those with other parasitoses. When using a cutoff level of 0.5 or above, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values at the prevalence of infection of 34.4%, were 93.3%, 83.7%, 76.7%, and 95.6%, respectively. This ICT kit is easy to use at the point-of-care and a result can be obtained in 15 min. Sophisticated instruments and highly trained staff are not required. It can be used in several diagnostic and public-health settings, e.g., prevalence surveys in endemic areas, confirmation and monitoring of cure post-treatment, diagnosis and screening of infected but asymptomatic individuals, and populations “at risk” for hyperinfection syndrome or disseminated strongyloidiasis if they are given immunosuppressive treatment for other conditions.
Right place. Right time. Right tool: guidance for using target analysis to increase the likelihood of invasive species detection
Authors: Morisette Jeffrey T. , Reaser Jamie K. , Cook Gericke L. , Irvine Kathryn M. , Roy Helen E.
Published: November 2019

In response to the National Invasive Species Council’s 2016–2018 Management Plan, this paper provides guidance on applying target analysis as part of a comprehensive framework for the early detection of and rapid response to invasive species (EDRR). Target analysis is a strategic approach for detecting one or more invasive species at a specific locality and time, using a particular method and/or technology(ies). Target analyses, which are employed across a wide range of disciplines, are intended to increase the likelihood of detection of a known target in order to maximize survey effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Although target analyses are not yet a standard approach to invasive species management, some federal agencies are employing target analyses in principle and/or in part to improve EDRR capacities. These initiatives can provide a foundation for a more standardized and comprehensive approach to target analyses. Guidance is provided for improving computational information. Federal agencies and their partners would benefit from a concerted effort to collect the information necessary to perform rigorous target analyses and make it available through open access platforms.
Development and evaluation of two TaqMan assays for generic detection of Dickeya species
Authors: Zijlstra Carolien , De Haas Lia Groenenboom – , Krijger Marjon , Verstappen Els , Warris Sven , de Haan Eisse , van der Wolf Jan
Published: November 2019

Two TaqMan assays were developed for generic detection of Dickeya species in plant material. The assays enabled detection of all strains of D. chrysanthemi, D. dadantii, D. dianthicola, D. solani and D. zeae tested, but only weak reactions were found with strains of D. paradisiaca. The assays enabled detection of as low as 100 fg of target DNA in a background of potato DNA. The assays were evaluated with DNA extracted from potato tuber extracts, in which different Dickeya species can be present. Results of both assays were highly similar indicating that they can be used reliably in potato seed testing programs.
Towards Increased Understanding of Open Data Use for Software Development
Authors: Grzenda Maciej , Legierski Jaroslaw
Published: November 2019

The way open data resources of varied type and volume are used by software applications remains only partly known. In this study, following CRoss-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining, we propose a methodology for collecting and analyzing access data describing the use of open data resources by individual software applications. The methodology includes novel categorization of the data collected at an exposition portal providing access to underlying open data portals and third-party services. Furthermore, it enables research into the use of both different open data resources and resource groups such as Big Data resources for software development. We apply the methodology to analyze the re-use of open urban data during reference software development events. The identification of open data use by individual applications is largely improved compared to baseline scenario, as shown by numerical indicators including F1 measure. Insight into re-use of data streams and actual development time is obtained.
The interplay between psychological need satisfaction and psychological need frustration within a work context: A variable and person-oriented approach
Authors: Rouse Peter C. , Turner Philip J. F. , Siddall Andrew G. , Schmid Julia , Standage Martyn , Bilzon James L. J.
Published: November 2019

A plethora of empirical data support a positive (or “brighter”) pathway to optimal human functioning as specified within Basic Psychological Needs Theory (Ryan and Deci in Psychol Inq 11(4):319–33, 2000). Yet, far less is known about the negative (or “darker”) pathway, a process evoking of human dysfunction and ill-being (cf. Vansteenkiste and Ryan in J Psychother Integr 23(3):263, 2013). Further, debate surrounds the independence and interplay between psychological need satisfaction and psychological need frustration and how these dynamic constructs are experienced within individuals. In this work, variable and person-oriented analyses were employed to: (i) investigate the relationships between the basic psychological needs and symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety as well as with life satisfaction; and (ii) identify different psychological need profiles and their relationship with psychological function. Participants (N = 2236;MAge = 42.16 years;SD = 7.8) were UK-based operational firefighters who completed an online survey. Results of regression analyses showed a moderating effect of psychological need satisfaction on the relationship between need frustration and negative psychological symptoms. Latent profile analyses revealed five distinct basic psychological need profiles that carry implications for human psychological functioning. Some support for an asymmetrical relationship between need satisfaction and need frustration emerged (Vansteenkiste and Ryan in J Psychother Integr 23(3):263, 2013), yet, examples of above average need satisfaction and frustration scores were also observed. Worker profiles where psychological need frustration prevailed over need satisfaction had the poorest psychological health.
Predicting early career productivity of PhD economists: Does advisor-match matter?
Authors: García-Suaza Andrés , Otero Jesús , Winkelmann Rainer
Published: November 2019

We assess the role played by department rank and advisor-match on the early stage productivity of recent PhDs in economics using a tailor-made data set based on RePEc. After allowing for the potential influence of other factors, including gender and field of specialisation, we find as expected that both advisory quality and rank of the graduation institution are positively related to the academic productivity of graduates. However, in top institutions, students working with the most productive academics do not outperform others unless they co-author with their advisor. For students in non-top institutions, being advised by the best academics is always associated with a higher research output. Possible explanations for this difference are pointed out, including selection and differences in advising styles.
The Impact of Mineral Dissolution on Drainage Relative Permeability and Residual Trapping in Two Carbonate Rocks
Authors: Niu Ben , Krevor Samuel
Published: November 2019

Carbon dioxide injection into deep saline aquifers is governed by a number of physico-chemical processes including mineral dissolution and precipitation, multiphase fluid flow, and capillary trapping. These processes can be coupled; however, the impact of fluid–rock reaction on the multiphase flow properties is difficult to study and is not simply correlated with variations in porosity. We observed the impact of rock mineral dissolution on multiphase flow properties in two carbonate rocks with distinct pore structures. Observations of steady-state $$\hbox {N}_2$$N2–water relative permeability and residual trapping were obtained, along with mercury injection capillary pressure characteristics. These tests alternated with eight stages in which 0.5% of the mineral volume was uniformly dissolved into solution from the rock cores using an aqueous solution with a temperature-controlled acid. Variations in the multiphase flow properties did not relate simply to changes in porosity, but corresponded to the changes in the underlying pore structure. In the Ketton carbonate, dissolution resulted in an increase in the fraction of pore volume made up by the smallest pores and a decrease in the fraction made up by the largest pores. This resulted in an increase in the relative permeability to the nonwetting phase, a decrease in the relative permeability to the wetting phase, and a modest, but systematic decrease in residual trapping. In the Estaillades carbonate, dissolution resulted in an increase in the fraction of pore volume made up by pores in the central range of the initial pore size distribution, and a corresponding decrease in the fraction made up by both the smallest and largest pores. This resulted in a decrease in the relative permeability to both the wetting and nonwetting fluid phases and no discernible impact on the residual trapping. In summary, the impact of rock matrix dissolution will be strongly dependent on the impact of that dissolution on the underlying pore structure of the rock. However, if the variation in pore structure can be observed or estimated with modelling, then it should be possible to estimate the impacts on multiphase flow properties.
Targeted Mutational Profiling and a Powerful Risk Score as Additional Tools for the Diagnosis of Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Kocsis-Deák Barbara , Árvai Kristóf , Balla Bernadett , Tóbiás Bálint , Kohánka Andrea , Járay Balázs , Horányi János , Podani János , Takács István , Putz Zsuzsanna , Kósa János , Lakatos Péter
Published: November 2019

Nowadays, the complementary diagnostics based on the suspicious thyroid lesion specific mutational state analysis is indispensable in the clinical practice. We aimed to test and validate our novel 568-mutational hotspot panel (23 cancer-related genes) on papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) and their tumor-free pairs to find the most powerful mutation pattern related to PTC. The sequencing method was carried on with Ion Torrent PGM on 67 thyroid tissue samples. The most commonly detected mutation was the BRAF c.1799 T > A in all non-classical PTC cases. We utilized a multivariate statistical method (CVA) to determine a discrimination score based on mutational data array and to assess malignancy risk. Based on variants, the BRAF gene has by far the highest indicative power, followed by TSHR and APC. We highlighted novel aspects of the mutational profile and genetic markers of PTC. CVA has correctly assigned most of the samples based on the mutation frequencies and different variables of the selected genes, with high analytical probabilities. The final goal is to set up a new comprehensive rule-in and rule-out test to support the clinical decision making mainly in inconclusive fine-needle aspiration biopsy cases.
The Japanese Breast Cancer Society Clinical Practice Guidelines, 2018 edition: the tool for shared decision making between doctor and patient
Authors: Iwata Hiroji , Saji Shigehira , Ikeda Masahiko , Inokuchi Masashi , Uematsu Takayoshi , Toyama Tatsuya , Horii Rie , Yamauchi Chikako
Published: November 2019

The Breast Cancer Clinical Practice Guidelines, 2018 edition, written in Japanese and organized by the Japanese Breast Cancer Society, were published in Japanese in May 2018. The process of making these guidelines, as well as the content, was largely changed and compared with previous editions. The concept of these guidelines is to act as a support tool for shared decision making between doctor and patient. The procedure of creating the guidelines referred to Minds Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development 2014. This guideline, written in Japanese, consists of two booklets: (1) the epidemiology and diagnosis booklet covering screening, radiological, and pathological diagnosis and (2) the treatment booklet covering surgical therapy, radiation therapy, and systemic therapy. This review article consists of five parts, including the history of the Breast Cancer Clinical Practice Guidelines, the concept, process, content, and recommendation grade. I believe this brief summary concerning the Breast Cancer Clinical Practice Guidelines 2018 edition in English will be helpful for both Japanese and foreign investigators.
The Cross Talk between Cancer Stem Cells/Cancer Initiating Cells and Tumor Microenvironment: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle for the Efficient Targeting of these Cells with Immunotherapy
Authors: Ravindran Shilpa , Rasool Saad , Maccalli Cristina
Published: November 2019

Cancer Stem Cells/Cancer Initiating Cells (CSCs/CICs) is a rare sub-population within a tumor that is responsible for tumor formation, progression and resistance to therapies. The interaction between CSCs/CICs and tumor microenvironment (TME) can sustain “stemness” properties and promote their survival and plasticity. This cross-talk is also pivotal in regulating and modulating CSC/CIC properties. This review will provide an overview of the mechanisms underlying the mutual interaction between CSCs/CICs and TME. Particular focus will be dedicated to the immunological profile of CSCs/CICs and its role in orchestrating cancer immunosurveillance. Moreover, the available immunotherapy strategies that can target CSCs/CICs and of their possible implementation will be discussed. Overall, the dissection of the mechanisms regulating the CSC/CIC-TME interaction is warranted to understand the plasticity and immunoregulatory properties of stem-like tumor cells and to achieve complete eradications of tumors through the optimization of immunotherapy.
Beyond the default colon: Effective use of quotes in qualitative research
Authors: Lingard Lorelei
Published: November 2019

None
Effect of anodized zirconium implants on early osseointegration process in adult rats: a histological and histomorphometric study
Authors: Tano de la Hoz María Florencia , Katunar María Rosa , González Ariel , Gomez Sanchez Andrea , Díaz Alcira Ofelia , Ceré Silvia
Published: November 2019

Since surface plays a key role in bioactivity, the response of the host to the biomaterial will determine the success or failure of the prosthesis. The purpose of this study is to make an exhaustive analysis of the histological and histochemical characteristics of new bone tissue around Zr implants anodized at 60 V (Zr60) supported by histomorphometric methods in a rat model. Fibrous tissue was observed around the control implants (Zr0) and osteoblasts were identified on the trabeculae close to the implantation site that showed typical cytological characteristics of active secretory cells, regardless of the surface condition. The histomorphometrical analysis revealed a significant increase in cancellous bone volume, trabecular thickness and in trabecular number together with a decrease in trabecular separation facing Zr60. TRAP staining showed that there was a relative increase in the number of osteoclasts for Zr60. In addition, a larger number of osteoclast with a greater number of nuclei were detected in the tibiae for Zr60. This research demonstrated that the new bone microarchitecture in contact with Zr60 is able to improve the early stages of the osseointegration process and consequently the primary stability of implants which is a crucial factor to reduce recovery time for patients.
Vaccination with (1–11)E2 in alum efficiently induces an antibody response to β-amyloid without affecting brain β-amyloid load and microglia activation in 3xTg mice
Authors: Mantile Francesca , Capasso Angelo , Villacampa Nadia , Donnini Maria , Liguori Giovanna L. , Constantin Gabriela , De Berardinis Piergiuseppe , Heneka Michael T. , Prisco Antonella
Published: November 2019

Immunization against β-amyloid (Aβ) is pursued as a possible strategy for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In clinical trials, Aβ 1–42 proved poorly immunogenic and caused severe adverse effects; therefore, safer and more immunogenic candidate vaccines are needed. Multimeric protein (1–11)E2 is able to induce an antibody response to Aβ, immunological memory, and IL-4 production, with no concomitant anti-Aβ T cell response. Antisera recognize Aβ oligomers, protofibrils, and fibrils. In this study, we evaluated the effect of prophylactic immunization with three doses of (1–11)E2 in alum in the 3xTg mouse model of AD. Immunization with (1–11)E2 efficiently induced anti-Aβ antibodies, but afforded no protection against Aβ accumulation and neuroinflammation. The identification of the features of the anti-Aβ immune response that correlate with the ability to prevent Aβ accumulation remains an open problem that deserves further investigation.
Enabling privacy and security in Cloud of Things: Architecture, applications, security & privacy challenges
Authors: Abba Ari Ado Adamou , Ngangmo Olga Kengni , Titouna Chafiq , Thiare Ousmane , Kolyang  , Mohamadou Alidou , Gueroui Abdelhak Mourad
Published: November 2019

The Cloud of Things (IoT) that refers to the integration of the Cloud Computing (CC) and the Internet of Things (IoT), has dramatically changed the way treatments are done in the ubiquitous computing world. This integration has become imperative because the important amount of data generated by IoT devices needs the CC as a storage and processing infrastructure. Unfortunately, security issues in CoT remain more critical since users and IoT devices continue to share computing as well as networking resources remotely. Moreover, preserving data privacy in such an environment is also a critical concern. Therefore, the CoT is continuously growing up security and privacy issues. This paper focused on security and privacy considerations by analyzing some potential challenges and risks that need to be resolved. To achieve that, the CoT architecture and existing applications have been investigated. Furthermore, a number of security as well as privacy concerns and issues as well as open challenges, are discussed in this work.