bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gubernatorial Policy Priorities and State Fiscal Outcomes
Authors: Ivonchyk Mikhail
Published: May 2020

This study tests the effect of gubernatorial policy agendas on state budgetary choices. Governors are commonly perceived as state policy leaders, but lack direct legislative authority and depend on the law makers to pass bills and present them for signature. The theory posits that governors nonetheless possess several formal and informal tools that are used to overcome this institutional disadvantage and successfully pursue their policy goals. Gubernatorial policy priorities in this study are extracted from public speeches using unsupervised machine learning. Their influence on state spending choices in different policy areas is tested through panel data analysis of all states from 2007 through 2015. Empirical findings reveal that the effect of executive agendas is more pronounced in the area of transportation infrastructure and public safety—potentially due to lower levels of conflict and concentrated benefits, which eases deal making with law makers. Governors are also more persistent with policy proposals that are more important for reelection.

Related Articles

Adams, Brian E. 2016. “Assessing the Merits of Decentralization: A Framework for Identifying the Causal Mechanisms Influencing Policy Outcomes.” Politics & Policy 44 (5): 820‐849. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12172

Heidbreder, Brianne. 2012. “Agenda Setting in the States: How Politics and Policy Needs Shape Gubernatorial Agendas.” Politics & Policy 40 (2): 296‐319. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2012.00345.x

Patrick, Barbara. 2012. “Fiscal Federalism, Performance Policies, and Education Reforms: Are States Using Performance Policies to Improve Workforce Quality?” Politics & Policy 40 (4): 593‐628. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2012.00370.x
Right‐Wing Populism in Rural Europe. Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Mamonova Natalia , Franquesa Jaume
Published: May 2020

This special issue aims to understand the rise of right‐wing populism in the European countryside, as well as the forms of resistance and the alternatives being built against it. In this short introduction, we briefly present the main objectives and conceptual position of the special issue and introduce its articles. Each article is discussed here based on its contribution to one of the following themes: (1) analysis of the existing socio‐economic system and power relations that gave rise to right‐wing populism in rural Europe; (2) critical examination of the major assumptions about rural support for populist movements; (3) problematic overlap between politics and rhetoric of right‐wing populist parties and left‐wing (green) parties and agrarian movements; (4) agrarian populism and food sovereignty movement as progressive alternatives to right‐wing politics in the European countryside.
“Is nicht egal“: Guided Multimodal Reading of a Music Video Advertisement
Authors: Benjamin John D. , Donohue‐Bergeler Devon , Fuchs Katrin , Lorenz Alexander
Published: May 2020

This case study addresses the language‐culture divide contributing to curricular bifurcation in many collegiate language departments and presents a lesson plan to help language instructors bridge the gap. The lesson on public transportation is designed for first‐semester second language (L2) German students and focuses on a guided reading of a music video advertisement – the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) spot “Is mir egal,” featuring Kazim Akboga (2015). The instructor and the L2 learners, using these guided reading strategies (Kern, 2000; Paesani, Allen, & Dupuy, 2016), collectively unpack the text and make meaning – culturally, linguistically, and in‐between. This article presents data in the form of written student reflections on the video advertisement and guided reading strategies as well as instructor observations. The lesson is designed according to the FLLITE Project (Foreign Languages and the Literary in the Everyday, https://fllite.org/), dedicated to the free use of the Open Educational Resources (OER) movement, thus allowing instructors to adapt it to their specific needs.
COVID‐19 convalescent plasma: phase 2
Authors: Knudson C. Michael , Jackson J. Brooks
Published: May 2020

See editorial on page 1123–1127, in this issue
Life Quality of Children Interested in Music
Authors: Kabataş Mustafa
Published: May 2020

Many definitions have been made about music. Soykan (2002 P: 1) defines music as “explaining the effect that it awakens in the audience with stimulation, impression, affect”. According to (Sun et. al., 1969), music is the art of expression with sound and rhythm (Uçan et. al., 1996) is the music as art; It defines as a whole that describes certain situations, phenomena and events in an aesthetic structure with harmonious sounds that are combined with a certain purpose and method, with a certain understanding of beauty, with the contribution of emotions, thoughts, designs and impressions or other reasons. According to (Özer et. al., 1997). The diversity of the definitions about music arises from the existence of music concepts that vary according to the age, culture and individuals in a culture. Developing and gaining music-related behaviors during the upbringing of individuals is through music education. With music education, it is aimed to create musical behavior change in the desired direction in their psychological, cognitive and affective behavior. The behaviors that are tried to be acquired will be possible with a planned and programmed training process (Akbulut Efe et. al., 2006). Today, there are many institutions providing professional or amateur, paid or free music education. In this study, it was made to observe whether there is a change in the quality of life of children who are 10-14 years old, who are interested in music, compared to those who are not. 68 students interested in the same number of music and not attending the study participated in the study. The data of the study were collected by Kid-KINDL quality of life scale and family questionnaire. The findings were discussed and the study was thought to contribute to the field.
Contraction‐regulated mTORC1 and protein synthesis: Influence of AMPK and glycogen
Authors: Knudsen Jonas R. , Li Zhencheng , Persson Kaspar W. , Li Jingwen , Henriquez‐Olguin Carlos , Jensen Thomas E.
Published: May 2020

Key points

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)‐dependent Raptor Ser792 phosphorylation does not influence mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)‐S6K1 activation by intense muscle contraction.

α2‐AMPK activity‐deficient mice have lower contraction‐stimulated protein synthesis.

Increasing glycogen activates mTORC1‐S6K1.

Normalizing muscle glycogen content rescues reduced protein synthesis in AMPK‐deficient mice.

The mechansitic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)‐S6K1 signalling pathway regulates muscle growth‐related protein synthesis and is antagonized by AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) in multiple cell types. Resistance exercise stimulates skeletal muscle mTORC1‐S6K1 and AMPK signalling and post‐contraction protein synthesis. Glycogen inhibits AMPK and has been proposed as a pro‐anabolic stimulus. The present study aimed to investigate how muscle mTORC1‐S6K1 signalling and protein synthesis respond to resistance exercise‐mimicking contraction in the absence of AMPK and with glycogen manipulation. Resistance exercise‐mimicking unilateral in situ contraction of musculus quadriceps femoris in anaesthetized wild‐type and dominant negative α2 AMPK kinase dead transgenic (KD‐AMPK) mice, measuring muscle mTORC1 and AMPK signalling immediately (0 h) and 4 h post‐contraction, and protein‐synthesis at 4 h. Muscle glycogen manipulation by 5 day oral gavage of the glycogen phosphorylase inhibitor CP316819 and sucrose (80 g L−1) in the drinking water prior to in situ contraction. The mTORC1‐S6K1 and AMPK signalling axes were coactivated immediately post‐contraction, despite potent AMPK‐dependent Ser792 phosphorylation on the mTORC1 subunit raptor. KD‐AMPK muscles displayed normal mTORC1‐S6K1 activation at 0 h and 4 h post‐exercise, although there was impaired contraction‐stimulated protein synthesis 4 h post‐contraction. Pharmacological/dietary elevation of muscle glycogen content augmented contraction‐stimulated mTORC1‐S6K1‐S6 signalling and rescued the reduced protein synthesis‐response in KD‐AMPK to wild‐type levels. mTORC‐S6K1 signalling is not influenced by α2‐AMPK during or after intense muscle contraction. Elevated glycogen augments mTORC1‐S6K1 signalling. α2‐AMPK‐deficient KD‐AMPK mice display impaired contraction‐induced muscle protein synthesis, which can be rescued by normalizing muscle glycogen content.
Systematic Reductions in Differential Ratings of Perceived Exertion Across a 2-Week Repeated-Sprint-Training Intervention That Improved Soccer Players’ High-Speed-Running Abilities
Authors: McLaren Shaun J. , Taylor Jonathan M. , Macpherson Tom W. , Spears Iain R. , Weston Matthew
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To quantify changes in differential ratings of perceived exertion (dRPE) across a 2-wk repeated-sprint-training intervention that improved high-intensity intermittent-running ability and linear speed of semiprofessional soccer players. Methods: Thirteen players completed 3 (sessions 1–3) or 4 (sessions 4–6) sets of 7 sprints (group 1 [n = 7]: 30-m straight; group 2 [n = 6]: 2 × 10-m shuttle), with 20 s and 4 min of recovery between sprints and sets, respectively. Postset perceptions of breathlessness (RPE-B) and leg-muscle exertion (RPE-L) were rated using the CR100 scale. Results: Overall, RPE-B (mean [SD]: 46 [13] arbitrary units [AU], “hard”) was most likely higher than RPE-L (39 [13] AU, “somewhat hard,” mean difference: 8 AU; 90% confidence limits [CLs]: ±2). Set-to-set increases in dRPE (in AU; 90% CL: approximately ±2) were large in session 1 (RPE-B: 15; RPE-L: 14), moderate in sessions 2–5 (RPE-B: 7–10; RPE-L: 7–8), and small (RPE-B: 6) to moderate (RPE-L: 7) in session 6. Across the intervention, RPE-B reduced moderately in sets 3 (−13; 90% CL: ±4) and 4 (−12; 90% CL: ±12) and RPE-L reduced by a small magnitude in set 3 (−5; 90% CL: ±6). The set 4 change in RPE-L was unclear (−11; 90% CL: ±13). Conclusions: The authors observed systematic intrasession and intersession changes in dRPE across a 2-wk repeated-sprint-training intervention, with a fixed prescription of external load that improved semiprofessional soccer players’ high-speed-running abilities. These findings could support dRPE as a measure of internal load and highlight its usefulness in evaluating repeated-sprint-training dose–response.
Hemodynamic Function of Forearm Muscle in Postmenopausal Women With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Pollonini Luca , Gulley Cox Lauren , Gorniak Stacey L.
Published: May 2020

Changes in the hemodynamic function of muscle are speculated as a causal mechanism for reduced motor capabilities with aging in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The focus of this study was to evaluate changes in muscle oxygenation during sustained force production in postmenopausal women with DM compared with controls. Near-infrared spectroscopy was used to monitor deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin in the flexor digitorum superficialis. Sensorimotor function and health state covariates were also assessed. Increased deoxyhemoglobin was found during force production, whereas oxyhemoglobin remained constant. Changes were found in the time structure of the hemodynamic data during force production. No between-group differences were found; instead, measures covaried with the health state. Sex-based differences in the manifestation of DM-related sensorimotor dysfunction are likely. These data indicate that basic cardiovascular health measures may be more beneficial to monitoring hyperemic status and muscle function in postmenopausal women with DM, compared with DM diagnosis.
Plantar Flexor Strength Training With Home-Based Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Improves Limits of Postural Stability in Older Adults
Authors: Langeard Antoine , Bigot Lucile , Loggia Gilles , Chastan Nathalie , Quarck Gaëlle , Gauthier Antoine
Published: May 2020

Background: The study aimed to determine whether improved muscle strength after 12 weeks of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) of plantar and dorsiflexors could result in better limits of stability in older adults. Methods: Twenty-seven participants were divided into a control group and a neuromuscular home-based training group. The training group performed a 3-month long NMES training of both plantar and dorsiflexors. Ankle flexor strength and limits of stability were measured. A mediation analysis was conducted to determine whether the NMES effect on the limits of stability was mediated by increased strength. Results: The NMES training increased plantar flexor strength (+47%; β = 0.217, P = .02), and this increase predicted the anterior limits of stability improvement (+27%; β = 0.527, P = .02). The effect of the NMES on the limits of stability was fully mediated by the plantar flexor strength increase (indirect effect: β = 0.1146; 95% confidence interval, 0.020–0.240). Conclusion: It seems that NMES improves the limits of stability through its positive effect on muscle strength. NMES may be utilized in fall-prevention programs.
The Evolution of Hellison’s Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility Model in Out-of-School Contexts
Authors: Martinek Tom , Hemphill Michael A.
Published: May 2020

Don Hellison fully realized that getting students to become positive contributors to their community meant that experiences that engender a greater sense of being a responsible person had to be provided. He leveraged the power of out-of-school time programming to implement his Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model and build relationships with variety of underserved youth. Don also understood that community partnerships were important in this effort. This article provides a glimpse at how Don was able to establish TPSR programs in a variety of out-of-school settings—all of which addressed the needs of underserved children and youth. A historical context is provided to illustrate the placement of TPSR in the broader movement of positive youth development. Don’s programs that operated during out-of-school time and spanned the western region of the country to the urban sections of Chicago are described. Inconsistent partner support, scarcity of program space, and feelings of self-doubt are presented as challenges to the viability of TPSR programming. His commitment to making programs work despite these challenges is portrayed. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to illustrate how Don’s work has made a significant contribution to the positive youth development movement within out-of-school time contexts.
CRISPR-based gene editing enables
FOXP3
gene repair in IPEX patient cells
Authors: Goodwin M. , Lee E. , Lakshmanan U. , Shipp S. , Froessl L. , Barzaghi F. , Passerini L. , Narula M. , Sheikali A. , Lee C. M. , Bao G. , Bauer C. S. , Miller H. K. , Garcia-Lloret M. , Butte M. J. , Bertaina A. , Shah A. , Pavel-Dinu M. , Hendel A. , Porteus M. , Roncarolo M. G. , Bacchetta R.
Published: May 2020

Gene editing of
FOXP3
ensures regulated expression and restored function in T cells, supporting clinical applicability.
Particle-based artificial three-dimensional stem cell spheroids for revascularization of ischemic diseases
Authors: Zhang Ran , Luo Wenya , Zhang Yue , Zhu Dashuai , Midgley Adam C. , Song Hao , Khalique Anila , Zhang Haoqi , Zhuang Jie , Kong Deling , Huang Xinglu
Published: May 2020

Material technology can simulate hypoxic stem cells for vascular regeneration, providing new insights into synthetic biology.
TMEM16F phospholipid scramblase mediates trophoblast fusion and placental development
Authors: Zhang Yang , Le Trieu , Grabau Ryan , Mohseni Zahra , Kim Hoejeong , Natale David R. , Feng Liping , Pan Hua , Yang Huanghe
Published: May 2020

TMEM16F-mediated phospholipid flip-flop on cell surface facilitates syncytialization and placental development.
Exosome-templated nanoplasmonics for multiparametric molecular profiling
Authors: Wu Xingjie , Zhao Haitao , Natalia Auginia , Lim Carine Z. J. , Ho Nicholas R. Y. , Ong Chin-Ann J. , Teo Melissa C. C. , So Jimmy B. Y. , Shao Huilin
Published: May 2020

Biologically templated plasmonics enables simultaneous biophysical and biomolecular analysis of exosome biomarkers.
Vulnerability to reservoir reseeding due to high immune activation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in individuals with HIV-1
Authors: Eberhard Johanna M. , Angin Mathieu , Passaes Caroline , Salgado Maria , Monceaux Valerie , Knops Elena , Kobbe Guido , Jensen Björn , Christopeit Maximilian , Kröger Nicolaus , Vandekerckhove Linos , Badiola Jon , Bandera Alessandra , Raj Kavita , van Lunzen Jan , Hütter Gero , Kuball Jürgen H. E. , Martinez-Laperche Carolina , Balsalobre Pascual , Kwon Mi , Díez-Martín José L. , Nijhuis Monique , Wensing Annemarie , Martinez-Picado Javier , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian , Sáez-Cirión Asier
Published: May 2020

Heterogenous immune reconstitution and de novo priming of HIV-specific T cells characterize allo-HSCT recovery in HIV-infected individuals.
Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Infection by the Cyclophilin Inhibitor Alisporivir (Debio 025)
Authors: Softic Laurent , Brillet Rozenn , Berry François , Ahnou Nazim , Nevers Quentin , Morin-Dewaele Margot , Hamadat Sabah , Bruscella Patrice , Fourati Slim , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Ahmed-Belkacem Abdelhakim
Published: May 2020

Cyclophilins play a key role in the life cycle of coronaviruses. Alisporivir (Debio 025) is a nonimmunosuppressive analogue of cyclosporine with potent cyclophilin inhibition properties. Alisporivir reduced SARS-CoV-2 RNA production in a dose-dependent manner in Vero E6 cells, with a 50% effective concentration (EC
50
) of 0.46 ± 0.04 μM. Alisporivir inhibited a postentry step of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. These results justify rapidly conducting a proof-of-concept phase 2 trial with alisporivir in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collaborative Learning Tools To Foster Inclusive Participation and Sense of Belonging in a Microbiology Outreach Partnership
Authors: Sprowls Emily Diane
Published: May 2020

For secondary outreach programs to meet the goals of enhancing science education and attracting future scientists from underrepresented populations, we need an inclusive approach that integrates students’ knowledge and experiences in the process of doing science. I present three pedagogical tools designed by developing equitable, inclusive collaboration among microbiologist outreach mentors and high school biology students. These activities aim to foster a sense of belonging in a scientific community and serve as an entry point to the practice of inclusion. Over a one-semester course at an alternative high school, ten secondary students and their scientist mentors met weekly to design and conduct microbiology experiments together. This group of students and scientists participated in structured collaborative learning activities to: i) understand each other’s ideas about science; ii) collectively analyze their research findings; and iii) offer peer feedback. I modified the following three learning tools for use in my secondary science classroom from protocols of the National School Reform Faculty: 1) the Quotes Introduction Activity set the stage for equitable discourse between high school students and scientist mentors, while initiating important conversations about the process of biological research; 2) the Data Analysis Protocol allowed both students and mentors to contribute to the scientific process; and 3) the Feedback Carousel Activity engaged students and scientists alike in reviewing and refining poster presentations. This inclusive engagement in the social aspects of learning science can help students feel a sense of belonging and imagine their futures in the scientific community, key steps towards inclusion. The supportive system of structured feedback in these collaborative learning activities created a safe, inclusive space for secondary students to try on the role of microbiology expert, and for scientist volunteers to practice inclusive mentorship. Drawing from inclusive pedagogical tools in secondary education will help expand our capacity for inclusive science outreach and bring us closer to the goals of improving biology education and attracting future biologists at the university level.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium senegalense Strain AGRFS4, Isolated from a Dairy Farm in New Zealand
Authors: Gupta Tanushree B. , Jauregui Ruy , Nawarathana Amila Srilal , Brightwell Gale , Maclean Paul
Published: May 2020

We report the draft genome sequence of a new
Clostridium senegalense
strain, AGRFS4, which was isolated from a dairy farm environment in the Manawatu region in New Zealand. The genome is 3.98 Mb, with a GC content of 27%. The genome sequence was found to be 86.6% similar to that of the type strain
Clostridium senegalense
JC122. Until now, no
Clostridium senegalense
strain from New Zealand has been reported.
Draft Genome Sequence of Aeromonas caviae UFMG-H8, Isolated from Urine from a Healthy Bovine Heifer (Gyr Breed)
Authors: Giannattasio-Ferraz Silvia , Maskeri Laura , Oliveira André P. , Barbosa-Stancioli Edel F. , Putonti Catherine
Published: May 2020

Aeromonas caviae
is an emerging pathogen in humans, causing intestinal infections. Here, we report
Aeromonas caviae
strain UFMG-H8, isolated from the urine of a healthy heifer (Gyr breed).
Promoting Direct CO2 Conversion to DME over Zeolite-based Hybrid Catalysts
Authors: Frusteri L. , Bonura G. , Cannilla C. , Todaro S. , Giordano G. , Migliori M. , Frusteri F.
Published: May 2020

The direct hydrogenation of CO2 into dimethyl-ether (DME) has been studied in presence of zeolite-based hybrid catalysts, prepared through gel-oxalate coprecipitation of copper, zinc and zirconium precursors (in an atomic ratio of 60 : 30 : 10 respectively) in a solution containing different home-made zeolites (i.e., Sil-1, MFI, Y, FER, BEA, MOR), for a final CuZnZr/zeolite weight composition of 1:1. All the samples were properly characterized with different techniques for determining the textural, structural and morphological nature of the catalytic surface. N2 physisorption highlighted a variation both in the specific surface area and in the pore size distribution from the parent zeolites to the hybrid catalyst. TEM analyses disclosed how the pre-formed zeolite architecture affects the distribution of the oxides on the surface, significantly controlling not only the activity-selectivity pattern under the adopted experimental conditions (TR, 200–260°C; PR, 30 bar, GHSV: 8.800 NL/kgcat/h), but also the catalyst stability during time on-stream.
Recent Progress to Understand and Improve Zeolite Stability in the Aqueous Medium
Authors: Prodinger Sebastian , Derewinski Miroslaw A.
Published: May 2020

The work reviewed here attempts to summarize the growing literature on zeolite stability in hot liquid water. This required to first establish the nature, structure and interactions of the active sites in Brønsted and Lewis acidic microporous materials in the presence of liquid water. This understanding was then transferred to zeolite stability and catalyst deactivation. While early results correctly established Si–O–Si hydrolysis as the dominant pathway compared to the Si–O–Al hydrolysis observed in steaming, it also focused extensively on the positive role of framework and extra-framework Al in stabilizing zeolites. However, stability was instead found to more directly correlate with the number of internal structural defects and intraporous water concentration. Stabilization protocols for Brønsted acidic zeolites are described in detail. In the case of Lewis acidic zeolites, their inherent hydrophobic behavior (Si/M >100) makes them more resistant towards water, however, issues such as reversible carbonaceous species formation as well as irreversible metal leaching and fouling remain. Finally, we summarize the most important factors in designing robust and efficient zeolite catalysts made to withstand hot liquid water.
Orbital infarction syndrome after mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Valls Carbó Adrián , Gutiérrez Sánchez de la Fuente María , Pérez García Carlos , Gómez Ruiz Maria Natividad
Published: May 2020

Orbital infarction syndrome (OIS) encompasses the ischaemic infarction of all intraorbital and intraocular structures (optic nerve, extraocular muscles and orbital fat) which leads to a painful loss of visual acuity, ophthalmoparesis, chemosis, proptosis and ptosis. The rich anastomotic orbital vascularisation from internal carotid artery (ICA) and external carotid artery makes this disorder a rare cause of visual loss in stroke patients. We describe a case of a woman who suffered an acute occlusion of her right ICA and developed an OIS after mechanical thrombectomy.
Improving newborn heart rate assessment using a simple visual timer
Authors: Henry Caroline , Morris David E , Coleman Sophie , Pereira Andrea , Tamakloe Christian , Blanchfield Peter , Sharkey Don
Published: May 2020

Objective

Newborn resuscitation relies on accurate heart rate (HR) assessment, which, during auscultation, is prone to error. We investigated if a 6 s visual timer (VT) could improve HR assessment accuracy during newborn simulation.

Design

Prospective observational study of newborn healthcare professionals.

Setting

Three-phase developmental approach: phase I: HR auscultation during newborn simulation using a standard clock timer (CT) or the VT; phase II: repeat phase I after using a bespoke training app (NeoRate); phase III: following the Newborn Life Support course, participants assessed random HRs using the CT or VT.

Main outcome measures

HR accuracy (within ±10 beats/min, correct HR category, i.e. <60, 60–100 and >100 beats/min), assessment time and error-free rates were compared.

Results

Overall, 1974 HR assessments were performed with participants more accurate using the VT for ±10 beats/min (70% CT vs 86% VT, p<0.001) and correct HR category (78% CT vs 84% VT, p<0.01). The VT improved accuracy across all three phases. Additionally, following app training in phase II, the HR accuracy of both the CT and VT improved. The VT resulted in faster HR assessment times of 11 s (IQR 9–13) compared with the CT at 15 s (IQR 9–23, p<0.001). Error-free scenarios increased from 24% using the CT to 57% using the VT (p<0.001), with a shorter assessment time (CT 116 s (IQR 65–156) vs VT 53 s (IQR 50–64), p<0.001).

Conclusion

Using a VT to assess simulated newborn HR combined with a training app significantly improves accuracy and reduces assessment time compared with standard methods. Evaluation in the clinical setting is required to determine potential benefits.
Atropine eye-drop-induced acute delirium: a case report
Authors: Maravi Prashant , Mishra Dheerendra Kumar , Singh Amrendra , Niranjan Vijay
Published: May 2020

Atropine is an anticholinergic drug which is used in both parental and topical routes. Topical eye-drops of atropine sulfate are used as mydriatic and cycloplegics. Parental atropine-induced delirium is well known but topical atropine eye-drop-induced delirium cases are very limited in literature. In this case report, an elderly man underwent cataract surgery and developed delirium after the use of 1% atropine sulfate eye-drops as prescribed. This case supports the notion that even atropine eye-drops can cause delirium in patients at therapeutic doses in elderly.
Combination immunotherapy induces distinct T-cell repertoire responses when administered to patients with different malignancies
Authors: Cham Jason , Zhang Li , Kwek Serena , Paciorek Alan , He Tao , Fong Grant , Oh David Y , Fong Lawrence
Published: May 2020

Background

CTLA-4 blockade with ipilimumab is Food and Drug Administration-approved for melanoma as a monotherapy and has been shown to modulate the circulating T-cell repertoire. We have previously reported clinical trials combining CTLA-4 blockade with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in metastatic melanoma patients and in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients. Here, we investigate the effect that cancer type has on circulating T cells in metastatic melanoma and mCRPC patients, treated with ipilimumab and GM-CSF.

Methods

We used next-generation sequencing of T-cell receptors (TCR) to compare the circulating T cells of melanoma and mCRPC patients receiving the same treatment with ipilimumab and GM-CSF by Wilcoxon rank sum test. Flow cytometry was utilized to investigate specific T-cell populations. TCR sequencing results were correlated with each T-cell subpopulation by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Of note, 14 metastatic melanoma patients had samples available for TCR sequencing and 21 had samples available for flow cytometry analysis; 37 mCRPC patients had samples available for sequencing of whom 22 have TCR data available at both timepoints; 20 of these patients had samples available for flow cytometry analysis and 16 had data available at both timepoints.

Results

While melanoma and mCRPC patients had similar pretreatment circulating T-cell counts, treatment induces greater expansion of circulating T cells in melanoma patients. Metastatic melanoma patients have a higher proportion of clones that increased more than fourfold after the treatment compared with mCRPC patients (18.9% vs 11.0%, p=0.017). Additionally, melanoma patients compared with mCRPC patients had a higher ratio of convergent frequency (1.22 vs 0.60, p=0.012). Decreases in clonality induced by treatment are associated with baseline CD8+ T-cell counts in both patient groups, but are more pronounced in the melanoma patients (r=−0.81, p<0.001 vs r=−0.59, p=0.02).

Trial registration numbers

NCT00064129;NCT01363206.
Managing enduring public health emergencies such as COVID-19: lessons from Uganda Red Cross Society’s Ebola virus disease response operation
Authors: Geiger Daniel , Harborth Lisa , Mugyisha Alex
Published: May 2020

Background

In this piece, we translate insights from our study of routine coordination in the Ebola virus disease response operation by Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) for managing long-lasting public health emergencies. We further show how these lessons are relevant to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Commonly, emergency response organisations, like the URCS or hospitals, are ill equipped to handle longer lasting emergencies. These emergencies require special measures that combine ad-hoc action, continuous awareness over longer time periods, and the collaboration of multiple actors such as the government, public health institutions and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Results

From our study we can translate seven lessons learnt which are important for managing long-term public health emergencies such as pandemics: (1) centralised pooling and management of resources; (2) engagement of local communities in response efforts; (3) the need to continuously recruit and train staff; (4) the establishment of adjusted working patterns to prevent staff exhaustion; (5) cooperation of involved agencies with security for enforcing measures; (6) the revision of funding frameworks; and (7) the use of global positioning system (GPS) data to identify population movement patterns.

Conclusion

Although still speculative at this stage, we apply these lessons to the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. We argue that immediate action in the areas of resource pooling and control over critical resources, in the engagement of trusted and respected individuals in risk communication, in the continuous training and hiring of new staff, and in the appropriation of GPS tracking data is called for in managing SARS-CoV-2 by policy makers, NGOs and other involved agencies.
Repeated mechanical thrombectomy in short-term large vessel occlusion recurrence: multicenter study and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Styczen Hanna , Maegerlein Christian , Yeo Leonard LL , Clajus Christin , Kastrup Andreas , Abdullayev Nuran , Behme Daniel , Maurer Christoph Johannes , Meyer Lukas , Goertz Lukas , Ikenberg Benno , Tan Benjamin Y Q , Lobsien Donald , Papanagiotou Panagiotis , Kabbasch Christoph , Hesse Amelie Carolina , Berlis Ansgar , Fiehler Jens , Fischer Sebastian , Forsting Michael , Maus Volker
Published: May 2020

Background

Data on the frequency and outcome of repeated mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with short-term re-occlusion of intracranial vessels is limited. Addressing this subject, we report our multicenter experience with a systematic review of the literature.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of consecutive acute stroke patients treated with MT repeatedly within 30 days at 10 tertiary care centers between January 2007 and January 2020. Baseline demographics, etiology of stroke, angiographic outcome and clinical outcome evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days were noted. Additionally, a systematic review of reports with repeated MT due to large vessel occlusion (LVO) recurrence was performed.

Results

We identified 30 out of 7844 (0.4%) patients who received two thrombectomy procedures within 30 days due to recurrent LVO. Through systematic review, three publications of 28 participants met the criteria for inclusion. Combined, a total of 58 participants were analyzed: cardioembolic events were the most common etiology for the first (65.5%) and second LVO (60.3%), respectively. Median baseline NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) was 13 (IQR 8–16) before the first MT and 15 (IQR 11–19) before the second MT (p=0.031). Successful reperfusion was achieved in 91.4% after the first MT and in 86.2% patients after the second MT (p=0.377). The rate of functional independence (mRS 0–2) was 46% at 90 days after the second procedure.

Conclusion

Repeated MT in short-term recurrent LVO is a rarity but appears to be safe and effective. The second thrombectomy should be pursued with the same extensive effort as the first procedure as these patients may achieve similar good outcomes.
Wormhole solutions with a polynomial equation-of-state and minimal violation of the null energy condition
Authors: Parsaei F. , Rastgoo S.
Published: May 2020

This paper discusses wormholes supported by general equation-of-state , resulting in a significant combination of the linear equation-of-state and some other models. Wormhole with a quadratic equation-of-state is studied as a particular example. It is shown that the violation of null energy condition is restricted to some regions in the vicinity of the throat. The combination of barotropic and polytropic equation-of-state has been studied. We consider fluid near the wormhole throat in an exotic regime which at some $$r=r_{1}$$r=r1, the exotic regime is connected to a distribution of asymptotically dark energy regime with $$-1<\omega <-1/3$$-1<ω<-1/3. We have presented wormhole solutions with small amount of exotic matter. We have shown that using different forms of equation-of-state has a considerable effect on the minimizing violation of the null energy condition. The effect of many parameters such as redshift as detected by a distant observer and energy density at the throat on the $$r_1$$r1 is investigated. The solutions are asymptotically flat and compatible with presently available observational data at the large cosmic scale.
Random Schrödinger operators and Anderson localization in aperiodic media
Authors: Rojas-Molina C.
Published: May 2020

In this note, we review some results on localization and related properties for random Schrödinger operators arising in aperiodic media. These include the Anderson model associated to disordered quasicrystals and also the so-called Delone operators, operators associated to deterministic aperiodic structures.
Analyticity and causality in conformal field theory
Authors: Maharana Jnanadeva
Published: May 2020

We investigate analyticity properties of correlation functions in conformal field theories (CFTs) in the Wightman formulation. The goal is to determine domain of holomorphy of permuted Wightman functions. We focus on crossing property of three-point functions. The domain of holomorphy of a pair of three-point functions is determined by appealing to Jost’s theorem and by adopting the technique of analytic completion. This program paves the way to address the issue of crossing for the four-point functions on a rigorous footing.
Space–times over normed division algebras, revisited
Authors: Vilela Mendes R.
Published: May 2020

Normed division and Clifford algebras have been extensively used in the past as a mathematical framework to accommodate the structures of the Standard Model and grand unified theories. Less discussed has been the question of why such algebraic structures appear in Nature. One possibility could be an intrinsic complex, quaternionic or octonionic nature of the space–time manifold. Then, an obvious question is why space–time appears nevertheless to be simply parametrized by the real numbers. How the real slices of an higher-dimensional space–time manifold might be almost independent from each other is discussed here. This comes about as a result of the different nature of the representations of the real kinematical groups and those of the extended spaces. Some of the internal symmetry transformations might however appear as representations on homogeneous spaces of the extended group transformations that cannot be implemented on the elementary states.
An Intelligent Service Middleware Based on Sensors in IoT Environments
Authors: Park Jong-Hyun
Published: May 2020

In Internet of Things (IoT) environment, a number of sensors and devices exist and they have various and heterogeneous characteristics. Applications which provide a variety of services based on the sensors also have different service requirements. Therefore, a middleware that is located between sensors and application systems is needed for integrating two layers. This paper proposes a general purpose middleware for providing intelligent services based on heterogeneous sensors existing in IoT environment. The proposed middleware acquires and manages sensing data in real time. The middleware stores and manages heterogeneous sensors, node, and network metadata. Especially, the middleware in this paper includes a component for providing intelligent services based on inferencing the situation based on ontologies and rules.
Study of angular momentum effect on the fission process by angular anisotropy method in heavy-ion-induced reactions
Authors: Ashrafi Ghazaaleh , Soheyli Saeed , Khalili Morteza Khalil
Published: May 2020

The study of compound nucleus characteristics through fission fragment properties is a powerful tool to understand the fission mechanism of excited nuclei formed in heavy-ion-induced reactions. In this work, angular anisotropies of fission fragments from fissioning nuclei [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] with normal behaviors in angular anisotropy have been analyzed. In this way, the quadrupole deformation parameter of the compound nucleus is calculated by comparison between the experimental data of angular anisotropy and those predicted by the standard saddle-point statistical model. Then the rotational energy, the fission barrier height, and the effective moment of inertia of the compound nucleus are obtained through the calculated quadrupole deformation parameters. It is observed that the quadrupole deformation parameter decreases with increasing the mean square angular momentum. The obtained results illustrate that the rotational energy and the effective moment of inertia increase almost linearly with increasing the mean square angular momentum, while the fission barrier height decreases as expected. However, the calculated values of fission barrier height overestimate the rotating finite-range model predictions. Also, the calculated values of effective moment of inertia represent a nearly linear trend despite those predicted by the rotating finite-range model. In order to discuss the physical ideas underlying the effect of angular momentum on the fission properties, the interaction potential energy during the capture process is studied for the lightest and heaviest reaction systems.
FRACTIONAL-ORDER PASSIVITY-BASED ADAPTIVE CONTROLLER FOR A ROBOT MANIPULATOR TYPE SCARA
Authors: LAVÍN-DELGADO J. E. , CHÁVEZ-VÁZQUEZ S. , GÓMEZ-AGUILAR J. F. , DELGADO-REYES G. , RUÍZ-JAIMES M. A.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a novel fractional-order control strategy for the SCARA robot is developed. The proposed control is composed of [Formula: see text] and a fractional-order passivity-based adaptive controller, based on the Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu derivatives, respectively; both controls are robust to external disturbances and change in the desired trajectory and effectively enhance the performance of robot manipulator. The fractional-order dynamic model of the robot manipulator is obtained by using the Euler–Lagrange formalism, as well as the model of the induction motors which are the actuators that drive their joints. Through simulations results, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control strategy have been demonstrated. The performance of the fractional-order proposed control method is compared with its integer-order counterpart, composed of the PI controller and the conventional passivity-based adaptive controller, reported in the literature. The performance comparison results demonstrate the superiority and effectiveness of the fractional-order proposed control strategy for a SCARA robot manipulator.
THE BONE DENSITY STUDIED THROUGH THE FRACTAL DIMENSION IN PATIENTS WITH PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Authors: GÓMEZ-GARCÍA FRANCISCO JOSÉ , LÓPEZ-JORNET PÍA , FERNÁNDEZ-MARTÍNEZ M. , GUERRERO-SÁNCHEZ YOLANDA
Published: May 2020

We conducted a longitudinal study involving [Formula: see text] patients grouped according to the classification of periodontal diseases agreed in the World Workshop by the different groups of specialists gathered there. We proceed to select images of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) that were used to perform a study of bone density through a precise algorithm allowing an accurate calculation of the fractal dimensions of such images. A detailed anthropometric analysis was also carried out. Our objective was to demonstrate that there exists a direct relationship between either the loss of bone or the changes related to its height and diameter and the variations in bone density. Our results highlight significant differences among the initial and moderate periodontal groups with respect to both the control and the periodontal groups, where patients experience a severe and controlled periodontal disease. We conclude that there is a variation in the architecture of patients with periodontal disease that have an acute component and have not been treated or their treatment is not effective and their bone loss does not slow down.
A NEW NUMERICAL TREATMENT FOR FRACTIONAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS BASED ON NON-DISCRETIZATION OF DATA USING LAGUERRE POLYNOMIALS
Authors: KHAN ADNAN , SHAH KAMAL , ARFAN MUHAMMAD , ABDELJAWAD THABET , JARAD FAHD
Published: May 2020

In this research work, we discuss an approximation techniques for boundary value problems (BVPs) of differential equations having fractional order (FODE). We avoid the method from discretization of data by applying polynomials of Laguerre and developed some matrices of operational types for the obtained numerical solution. By applying the operational matrices, the given problem is converted to some algebraic equation which on evaluation gives the required numerical results. These equations are of Sylvester types and can be solved by using matlab. We present some testing examples to ensure the correctness of the considered techniques.
EXISTENCE RESULTS AND STABILITY CRITERIA FOR ABC-FUZZY-VOLTERRA INTEGRO-DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION
Authors: KHAN HASIB , GOMEZ-AGUILAR J. F. , ABDELJAWAD THABET , KHAN AZIZ
Published: May 2020

In the modeling of dynamical problems the fractional order integro-differential equations (IDEs) are very common in science and engineering. The scientists are developing different aspects of these models. The existence of solutions, stability analysis and numerical simulations are the most commonly studied aspects. There is no paper in literature describing the Hyers–Ulam stability (HU-stability) for fuzzy-fractional order models. Therefore, keeping the importance of the study, we consider the existence, uniqueness and HU-stability of a fractional order fuzzy-Volterra IDE.
APPLICATIONS OF BI-FRAMELET SYSTEMS FOR SOLVING FRACTIONAL ORDER DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
Authors: MOHAMMAD MUTAZ , CATTANI CARLO
Published: May 2020

Framelets and their attractive features in many disciplines have attracted a great interest in the recent years. This paper intends to show the advantages of using bi-framelet systems in the context of numerical fractional differential equations (FDEs). We present a computational method based on the quasi-affine bi-framelets with high vanishing moments constructed using the generalized (mixed) oblique extension principle. We use this system for solving some types of FDEs by solving a series of important examples of FDEs related to many mathematical applications. The quasi-affine bi-framelet-based methods for numerical FDEs show the advantages of using sparse matrices and its accuracy in numerical analysis.
Toward a Public-Key Management Framework for Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers
Authors: Hardjono Thomas , Lipton Alexander , Pentland Alex
Published: May 2020

The recent Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendations define virtual assets and virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and require under the Travel Rule that originating VASPs obtain and hold the required and accurate originator information and the required beneficiary information on virtual asset transfers. In this paper, we discuss the notion of key ownership evidence as a core part of originator and beneficiary information required by the FATF Recommendations. We discuss the approaches to securely communicate the originator and beneficiary information between VASPs, and review the existing standards for public-key certificates as applied to VASPs and virtual asset transfers. We propose the notion of a trust network of VASPs in which originator and beneficiary information, including key ownership information, can be exchanged securely off-chain while observing the individual privacy requirements.
The Hettangian–Sinemurian (Lower Jurassic) strata of Redcar, Cleveland Basin, NE England: facies and palaeoecology
Authors: Atkinson J. W. , Wignall P. B. , Page K. N.
Published: May 2020

The foreshore at Redcar hosts the oldest Jurassic succession exposed on the Yorkshire-Cleveland Coast but has received little attention since the late nineteenth century. Temporary removal of beach sands by winter storms early in 2018 allowed for a sedimentological and palaeontological study of a nearly 60 m-thick foreshore section. The rocks are latest Hettangian to Early Sinemurian in age (Early Jurassic) and comprise five coarsening-upward cycles (parasequences) that grade from mudstones through siltstones into
Gryphaea
-rich shell beds. Ammonites are reasonably common along with a diverse benthos that includes abundant bivalves (e.g.
Gryphaea, Cardinia, Luciniola, Plagiostoma
and
Oxytoma
) and rarer serpulids, gastropods, foraminifera and solitary corals. In the upper part of the section thicker-shelled taxa are commonly bored by cirripedes and bryozoans. Despite relatively high benthic diversity and intense bioturbation, pyrite framboids are common with size distributions suggesting deposition under a moderately oxygen-restricted water column. The Redcar succession post-dates the end-Triassic mass extinction by as much as 4 Ma and the diverse marine assemblages indicate that recovery was substantially complete by this time.