bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrient composition of the Indonesian sago grub (Rhynchophorus bilineatus)
Authors: Köhler Realm , Irias-Mata Andrea , Ramandey Euniche , Purwestri Ratna , Biesalski Hans Konrad
Published: February 2020

The sago grub (Rhynchophorus bilineatus) [Montrouzier, Coleoptera, Dryophthoridae] is a local delicacy in the Papua Province in Indonesia. In this study, the nutrient content of the edible insect was measured using chromatographic and spectrometric methods. The results showed that it contains 10.39 g protein and 17.17 g oil/ 100 g fresh weight. The sago grub meets the FAO/WHO requirements of 40% essential amino acids and a 0.60 ratio between essential to non-essential amino acids. Its limiting amino acid is methionine + cysteine. The major fatty acids found in the sago grub are palmitic (42%), oleic (45%), and linoleic (3%) acids. Although vitamin E is exclusively produced by photosynthetic organisms, a gram of sago grub oil contains 51 μg vitamin E, which is composed mainly of tocopherols (92%). In contrast with palm oil, the sago grub oil contains δ-tocopherol (0.12 μg/g oil), and a significantly high amount of β-tocopherol (3.85 μg/g oil). It is a source of zinc and magnesium and contains safe levels of heavy metals. Based on these nutritional properties, the Indonesian sago grub can be considered as a good source of nutrients, and its propagation and utilization should be encouraged especially in other areas of Indonesia and maybe in neighboring countries where they are also endemic, and where malnutrition is prevalent. The consumption of edible insects should be considered as a component of dietary diversification – a sustainable way of alleviating the nutritional status of the population.
A comprehensive study on the microstructure and mechanical properties of arc girth welded joints of spiral welded high strength API X70 steel pipe
Authors: Węglowski M. St. , Dymek S. , Kopyściański M. , Niagaj J. , Rykała J. , De Waele W. , Hertelé S.
Published: February 2020

In the paper, the effect of welding technology on the microstructure and mechanical properties of girth welded joints was presented. Metallographic examinations based on light microscopy and SEM were conducted on girth welded joints of API X70 steel pipe. Research has shown that microstructure of the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of MMA girth welded joints is not homogeneous and depends on the thermal history of each area during the welding process. Near the fusion line the zone is coarse, and further away there is a fine-grained zone. In the area of root passes the microstructure consists of recrystallized ferrite grains unlike to cap passes where the fine bainitic microstructure can be observed. In the case of MAG girth welded joints, the weld microstructure consists of primary austenite grains. The primary austenite boundaries serve as nucleation sites of ferrite. The microstructure of the HAZ varies continuously from a coarse—to fine-grained microstructure of the base material. The results of mechanical properties of girth welded joints are also presented. The hardness and strength of arc welded joints depend on welding filler materials as well as welding technology. The results of hardness distribution of MMA and MAG girth welded joints confirmed the results of microstructural evaluation.
FORECASTING MULTIPLE FUNCTIONAL TIME SERIES IN A GROUP STRUCTURE: AN APPLICATION TO MORTALITY
Authors: Shang Han Lin , Haberman Steven
Published: February 2020

When modelling subnational mortality rates, we should consider three features: (1) how to incorporate any possible correlation among subpopulations to potentially improve forecast accuracy through multi-population joint modelling; (2) how to reconcile subnational mortality forecasts so that they aggregate adequately across various levels of a group structure; (3) among the forecast reconciliation methods, how to combine their forecasts to achieve improved forecast accuracy. To address these issues, we introduce an extension of grouped univariate functional time-series method. We first consider a multivariate functional time-series method to jointly forecast multiple related series. We then evaluate the impact and benefit of using forecast combinations among the forecast reconciliation methods. Using the Japanese regional age-specific mortality rates, we investigate 1–15-step-ahead point and interval forecast accuracies of our proposed extension and make recommendations.
Tax Uniformity as a Requirement of Justice
Authors: Delmotte Charles
Published: February 2020

Barbara Fried takes the view that uniform taxation—that is, a single rate applicable to all income levels—cannot be defended on any grounds of justice. She goes further by saying that, of all possible rate structures, it might be “the hardest one”? to ground in “a”? theory of fairness. Using the contractarian-constitutional perspective advanced by John Rawls and James Buchanan, this article argues that tax uniformity can be seen as a requirement of justice. After modelling how the political world realistically decides to distribute tax shares (self-interested parties act under a majority constraint), I show how the uniformity principle could emerge from the constitutional contract. In other words, rational individuals would choose uniformity as a procedural constraint under a “veil of uncertainty”?; that is, with limited knowledge regarding their positions under the future application of the rule. Moreover, I elucidate how the uniformity requirement integrates generalized criteria of fairness and efficiency into fiscal politics as it precludes fiscal exploitation and constrains majorities, and their most influential subgroups, to opt for policies in the direction of the Pareto frontier, and as such promotes outcomes acceptable to all participants.
Eichmann’s Mistake: The Problem of Thoughtlessness in International Criminal Law
Authors: Mann Itamar
Published: February 2020

Atrocities are often unprecedented and identifying them therefore may require moral and political judgement, not only the application of legal rules. Consequently, potential defendants charged for perpetrating them may be genuinely unable to recognize the law that prohibits their criminal activity. Starting from its classical treatment in Hannah Arendt’s Eichmann in Jerusalem, this problem has perplexed scholars who have noted the seemingly normal character of defendants in mass atrocity cases. In disagreement with other scholars in the area, I argue for a recognition of a “mistake of law”? defense in international criminal law. The Article demonstrates the stakes of the claim through three hypothetical international criminal cases with different political underpinnings, all pertaining to burning contemporary concerns: cases against individuals responsible for the enormous risks of climate change; against abusers of migrants in the context of border enforcement; and against individuals responsible for the termination of pregnancies in abortion clinics. I argue for a dual approach: on the one hand, prosecutors and judges must constantly leave open the possibility of a radical departure from extant doctrine and precedent in charging individuals. On the other, they must recognize that defendants may reasonably not be able to recognize the law qua law, especially when such departures occur. The internal tension between these two imperatives sheds light on the predicament of international criminal adjudication. A recognition of the proposed mistake of law defense is but a modest doctrinal solution for a much more fundamental perplexity of the discipline. Yet it is especially crucial today, with an ever-clearer normative divergence among actors in the “international community.”?
Equity and Homelessness
Authors: Yu Andy
Published: February 2020

I argue that homelessness calls for equitable intervention. The motivation for such intervention involves the state’s provision of the system of property rights. This will be one that is responsible for but can also solve homelessness. The nature of the equitable interest responds to this motivation. There is a negative equitable right for the state not to exercise its right to exclude people from state-owned property against homeless people. There is also a positive equitable right for the state to provide housing to the homeless, or at least take steps towards doing so.
Summer Research Institute of the Canadian Mathematical Congress
Authors: Jeffery R. L.
Published: February 2020

The Institute was in session from May 15 to August 15, 1957. There were 32 Fellows and visitors from the staffs of 19 Canadian universities and from the University of London and Rutgers University. Fellowship holders.
The Alberta High School Mathematics Program
Authors: Keeping E.S.
Published: February 2020

Alberta high schools (Grades 10 to 12) give several courses in Mathematics, of which three are compulsory for those students intending to enter University. These three are Mathematics 10 (elements of Euclidean geometry, algebra up to simple equations, arithmetic), Mathematics 20 (geometry of the circle, loci, algebra up to quadratic equations) and Mathematics .30 (algebra, including systems of equations, progressions, permutations and combinations and the binomial theorem).
Setting the scene: The use of art to promote reconciliation in international criminal justice
Authors: Aksenova Marina , Rieff Amber N.
Published: February 2020

This article maps out the landscape holding and connecting three interrelated phenomena: art, international criminal justice, and reconciliation. We argue that reconciliation, viewed as a restorationprocess, is one of the goals of international criminal justice. Yet, its attainment through law is challenging because international criminal justice, strictly construed, isoutcomeoriented. Art can serve as a ‘bridge’ linking normative legal standards with their reconciliatory aspirations. The key argument is therefore that art has the clear ability to mediate and amplify the law’s restorative potential through three key features. Firstly, art reflects the complexity of the human condition and reserves a place for emotional processing. Secondly, it is a useful relational tool in opening the space for dialogue, the latter being essential for reconciliation. Lastly, art has the capacity to translate legalistic findings into a language accessible to a wider audience.
Attention/Working Memory, Learning and Memory in Adult Cameroonians: Normative Data, Effects of HIV Infection and Viral Genotype
Authors: Kanmogne Georgette D. , Fonsah Julius Y. , Umlauf Anya , Moul Jacob , Doh Roland F. , Kengne Anne M. , Tang Bin , Tagny Claude T. , Nchindap Emilienne , Kenmogne Léopoldine , Franklin Donald , Njamnshi Dora M. , Mbanya Dora , Njamnshi Alfred K. , Heaton Robert K.
Published: February 2020

Objective:

There is lack of Cameroonian adult neuropsychological (NP) norms, limited knowledge concerning HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa, and evidence of differential inflammation and disease progression based on viral subtypes. In this study, we developed demographically corrected norms and assessed HIV and viral genotypes effects on attention/working memory (WM), learning, and memory.

Method:

We administered two tests of attention/WM [Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT)-50, Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS)-III Spatial Span] and two tests of learning and memory [Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R), Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R)] to 347 HIV+ and 395 seronegative adult Cameroonians. We assessed the effects of viral factors on neurocognitive performance.

Results:

Compared to controls, people living with HIV (PLWH) had significantly lower T-scores on PASAT-50 and attention/WM summary scores, on HVLT-R total learning and learning summary scores, on HVLT-R delayed recall, BVMT-R delayed recall and memory summary scores. More PLWH had impairment in attention/WM, learning, and memory. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and current immune status had no effect on T-scores. Compared to untreated cases with detectable viremia, untreated cases with undetectable viremia had significantly lower (worse) T-scores on BVMT-R total learning, BVMT-R delayed recall, and memory composite scores. Compared to PLWH infected with other subtypes (41.83%), those infected with HIV-1 CRF02_AG (58.17%) had higher (better) attention/WM T-scores.

Conclusions:

PLWH in Cameroon have impaired attention/WM, learning, and memory and those infected with CRF02_AG viruses showed reduced deficits in attention/WM. The first adult normative standards for assessing attention/WM, learning, and memory described, with equations for computing demographically adjusted T-scores, will facilitate future studies of diseases affecting cognitive function in Cameroonians.
The role of food parcel use on dietary intake: perception of Dutch food bank recipients - a focus group study
Authors: Neter Judith E , Dijkstra S Coosje , Nicolaou Mary , Visser Marjolein , Brouwer Ingeborg A
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To gain insight in Dutch food bank recipients’ perception on the content of the food parcels, their dietary intake and how the parcels contribute to their overall dietary intake.

Design:

Eleven semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted. Focus group topics were based on Andersons food insecurity definition: the lack of availability of nutritionally adequate foods and the assured ability to acquire foods in socially acceptable ways. Data were coded and analysed with Atlas.ti 7.0 software, using the framework approach.

Setting:

Seven food banks throughout the Netherlands.

Participants:

A total of 44 Dutch food bank recipients.

Results:

Food bank recipients were not always satisfied with the amount, quality, variation and type of foods in the food parcel. For the participants who could afford to, supplementing the food parcel was reported as main reason for buying foods, and price was the most important aspect in selecting these foods. Participants were not satisfied with their dietary intake; they mainly reported not having enough to eat. The content of the food parcel importantly influenced participants’ overall dietary intake. Finally, participants reported struggling with their feelings of dissatisfaction, while also being grateful for the foods they receive.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that, despite their best efforts, food banks are not meeting food bank recipients’ needs. Our results provide valuable directions for improving the content of the food parcels by increasing the quantity, quality and variation in the foods supplied. Whether this also improves the dietary intake of recipients needs to be determined.
Evaluation of a Tunnel-in-the-Sky Head-Up Display Design for Curved	Approaches Using Eye-Tracking
Authors: Martins Ana Paz Goncalves , Hölscher Steffen , Dautermann Thomas
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Head-up displays (HUD) assist pilots, especially in the approach and landing phase. In this paper we compared pilots’ eye-tracking behavior between a pathway-in-the-sky layout versus the more conventional two-dimensional symbology in an HUD in a fixed-based cockpit simulator. In particular, we wanted to assess how visual attention was distributed within each layout (tunnel and standard). Performance and eye-tracking data were recorded, as well as workload and situation awareness measures. Results showed that the tunnel-in-the-sky symbology provided a very high tracking performance with low perceived workload and high perceived situational awareness. The analysis of the eye-tracking data revealed possible attentional tunneling with the tunnel-in-the-sky symbology and large differences between the displays in the distribution of visual attention.
Lower Crustal Composition in the Southwestern United States
Authors: Sammon L. G. , Gao C. , McDonough W. F.
Published: February 2020

The composition of the lower continental crust is well studied but poorly understood because of the difficulty of sampling large portions of it. Petrological and geochemical analyses of this deepest portion of the continental crust are limited to the study of high‐grade metamorphic lithologies, such as granulite. In situ lower crustal studies require geophysical experiments to determine regional‐scale phenomena. Since geophysical properties, such as shear wave velocity (Vs), are nonunique among different compositions and temperatures, the most informative lower crustal models combine both geochemical and geophysical knowledge. We explored a combined modeling technique by analyzing the Basin and Range and Colorado Plateau of the United States, a region for which plentiful geochemical and geophysical data are available. By comparing seismic velocity predictions based on composition and thermodynamic principles to ambient noise inversions, we identified three compositional trends in the southwestern United States that reflect three different geologic settings. The Colorado Plateau (thick crust), Northern Basin and Range (medium crust), and Southern Basin and Range (thin crust) have intermediate, intermediate‐mafic, and mafic deep crustal compositions. Identifying the composition of the lower crust depends heavily on its temperature because of the effect it has on rock mineralogy and physical properties. In this region, we see evidence for a lower crust that overall is intermediate‐mafic in composition (53.77.2 wt.% SiO) and notably displays a gradient of decreasing SiOwith depth.
Atmospheric Research Over the Western North Atlantic Ocean Region and North American East Coast: A Review of Past Work and Challenges Ahead
Authors: Sorooshian Armin , Corral Andrea F. , Braun Rachel A. , Cairns Brian , Crosbie Ewan , Ferrare Richard , Hair Johnathan , Kleb Mary M. , Hossein Mardi Ali , Maring Hal , McComiskey Allison , Moore Richard , Painemal David , Scarino Amy Jo , Schlosser Joseph , Shingler Taylor , Shook Michael , Wang Hailong , Zeng Xubin , Ziemba Luke , Zuidema Paquita
Published: February 2020

Decades of atmospheric research have focused on the Western North Atlantic Ocean (WNAO) region because of its unique location that offers accessibility for airborne and ship measurements, gradients in important atmospheric parameters, and a range of meteorological regimes leading to diverse conditions that are poorly understood. This work reviews these scientific investigations for the WNAO region, including the East Coast of North America and the island of Bermuda. Over 50 field campaigns and long‐term monitoring programs, in addition to 715 peer‐reviewed publications between 1946 and 2019, have provided a firm foundation of knowledge for these areas. Of particular importance in this region has been extensive work at the island of Bermuda that is host to important time series records of oceanic and atmospheric variables. Our review categorizes WNAO atmospheric research into eight major categories, with some studies fitting into multiple categories (relative %): aerosols (25%); gases (24%); development/validation of techniques, models, and retrievals (18%); meteorology and transport (9%); air‐sea interactions (8%); clouds/storms (8%); atmospheric deposition (7%); and aerosol‐cloud interactions (2%). Recommendations for future research are provided in the categories highlighted above.
Precipitation Probability and Its Future Changes From a Global Cloud‐Resolving Model and CMIP6 Simulations
Authors: Na Ying , Fu Qiang , Kodama Chihiro
Published: February 2020

This study investigates precipitation probability and its future changes using simulations from the Non‐hydrostatic Icosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM), a global cloud‐resolving model, and Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) models. For the precipitation probability comparison between models and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) during 1998–2008, the difference is greatly reduced by regridding to a common coarser resolution, but the difference signs largely remain. Both NICAM and CMIP6 model ensemble mean show less global‐mean nonprecipitation fractions than observations, but NICAM agrees better with observations. For global‐mean light precipitation probability, NICAM (CMIP6 model ensemble mean) is smaller (larger) than TRMM. NICAM shows higher heavy precipitation probability than TRMM in native resolutions, but it is close to TRMM and falls in the CMIP6 model range after regridding. For the precipitation probability changes from 1979–2008 to 2075–2104, NICAM predicts an increase in nonprecipitation and extreme heavy (>100 mm/day) precipitation probability but a slight decrease in the probability for precipitation <100 mm/day. After regridding to 2.5o, the precipitation intensity where the probability starts to increase becomes ~20 mm/day and the relative increases in nonprecipitation and heavy precipitation probability become much larger. Future heavy precipitation probability relative increases from CMIP6 models are much larger than NICAM at their native resolutions, but NICAM falls in the CMIP6 model range after regridding, indicating robust future increase (decrease) in heavy (light) precipitation probability regardless of underlying convection treatments. Discrepancy, however, exists in the projected nonprecipitation fraction changes: NICAM shows that nonprecipitation probability will increase over most of low and middle latitudes where CMIP6 models show less increases and even decreases.
Inverting Topography for Landscape Evolution Model Process Representation: 3. Determining Parameter Ranges for Select Mature Geomorphic Transport Laws and Connecting Changes in Fluvial Erodibility to Changes in Climate
Authors: Barnhart Katherine R. , Tucker Gregory E. , Doty Sandra G. , Shobe Charles M. , Glade Rachel C. , Rossi Matthew W. , Hill Mary C.
Published: February 2020

We review select mature geomorphic transport laws for use in temperate ridge and valley landscapes and compile parameter estimates for use in applications. This work is motivated by a case study of sensitivity analysis, calibration, validation, multimodel comparison, and prediction under uncertainty, which required bounding values for parameter ranges. Considered geomorphic transport formulae span hillslope sediment transport, soil production, and erosion by surface water. We compile or derive estimates for the parameters in these transport formulae. Additionally, we address a common challenge—connecting changes in precipitation distribution to changes in effective erodibility—by using a simple hydrologic model and a method to estimate precipitation distribution parameters using commonly available data. While some parameters are reasonably well constrained, others span orders of magnitude. Some, such as soil infiltration capacity, have a direct physical meaning but are challenging to measure on geologically relevant timescales. Through the process of compiling these ranges we identify common challenges in parameter determination. The issue of comparable units derives from considering an exponent as an empirically inferred coefficient rather than as an expression of a fundamental relationship. The issue of appropriate timescales derives from the mismatch between human measurement and geologic timescales. This contribution thus serves both as a practical compilation for applications and as a synthesis of outstanding challenges in parameter selection for geomorphic transport laws.
Experimental Results of Electron Method for Remote Spacecraft Charge Sensing
Authors: Bengtson M. T. , Wilson K. T. , Schaub H.
Published: February 2020

Remote charge sensing is a technique that can provide valuable insight into spacecraft‐environment interactions, as well as enable missions that leverage electrostatic interactions between multiple spacecraft or involve docking maneuvers in harsh charging environments. The concept discussed in this paper uses a co‐orbiting servicing spacecraft to measure the energies of secondary electrons or photoelectrons that are emitted from the target object with initial energies of a few electron volts. The electrons are accelerated toward the servicing spacecraft, which is at a known positive potential (relative to the target), where they are measured by an energy analyzer. Given the potential of the servicing spacecraft, the potential of the target can be accurately determined. Results are presented from experiments conducted in a vacuum chamber to investigate the touchless sensing concept. Specifically, the feasibility and accuracy of the electron method is considered for different materials, charge scenarios, and relative geometries. The results show that the surface potential of a flat plate can be accurately determined for a range of metallic surface materials, voltages, and relative angles.
Specifying High‐Altitude Electrons Using Low‐Altitude LEO Systems: The SHELLS Model
Authors: Claudepierre S. G. , O'Brien T. P.
Published: February 2020

We describe an artificial neural network model of the near‐Earth space radiation environment. The geomagnetic activity index
and low‐earth‐orbit (LEO) electron flux measurements from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Polar‐orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite (POES) operational spacecraft are used as model training inputs. Electron fluxes from National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Van Allen Probe spacecraft form the training outputs. We demonstrate that the model can accurately specify outer radiation belt (
–7) electron fluxes at two energies, 350 keV and 1 MeV. Various performance metrics are calculated using out‐of‐sample data, and we find high correlations and low errors between the model specification and the observed flux. We emphasize that once the model is trained, the Van Allen Probes data are no longer needed at model run time; only the POES fluxes and the
index are required to specify the outer electron belt using the model.
Structural and functional imaging markers for susceptibility to psychosis
Authors: Andreou Christina , Borgwardt Stefan
Published: February 2020

The introduction of clinical criteria for the operationalization of psychosis high risk provided a basis for early detection and treatment of vulnerable individuals. However, about two-thirds of people meeting clinical high-risk (CHR) criteria will never develop a psychotic disorder. In the effort to increase prognostic precision, structural and functional neuroimaging have received growing attention as a potentially useful resource in the prediction of psychotic transition in CHR patients. The present review summarizes current research on neuroimaging biomarkers in the CHR state, with a particular focus on their prognostic utility and limitations. Large, multimodal/multicenter studies are warranted to address issues important for clinical applicability such as generalizability and replicability, standardization of clinical definitions and neuroimaging methods, and consideration of contextual factors (e.g., age, comorbidity).
PDK1 promotes ovarian cancer metastasis by modulating tumor-mesothelial adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis via α5β1 integrin and JNK/IL-8 signaling
Authors: Siu Michelle K. Y. , Jiang Yu-xin , Wang Jing-jing , Leung Thomas H. Y. , Ngu Siew Fei , Cheung Annie N. Y. , Ngan Hextan Y. S. , Chan Karen K. L.
Published: February 2020

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancies owing to the lack of definitive symptoms until development of widespread metastases. Identification of novel prognostic and therapeutic targets is therefore an urgent need to improve survival. Here, we demonstrated high expression of the mitochondrial gatekeeping enzyme, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1), in both clinical samples and cell lines of ovarian cancer. PDK1 expression was significantly associated with metastasis, reduced chemosensitivity, and poor overall and disease-free survival, and further highlighted as an independent prognostic factor. Silencing of PDK1 retarded lactate production, ovarian cancer cell adhesion, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis, and consequently metastasis, concomitant with decreased α5β1 integrin expression. Phospho-kinase array profiling and RNA sequencing analyses further revealed reduction of JNK activation and IL-8 expression in PDK1-depleted cells. Conversely, PDK1 overexpression promoted cell adhesion via modulation of α5β1 integrins, along with cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis through activation of JNK/IL-8 signaling. PDK1 depletion additionally hindered tumor growth and dissemination in nude mice in vivo. Importantly, PDK1 levels were upregulated upon treatment with conditioned medium from omental tissues, which in turn promoted metastasis. Our findings suggest that PDK1, which is regulated by the tumor microenvironment, controls lactate production and promotes ovarian cancer cell metastasis via modulation of α5β1 integrin and JNK/IL-8 signaling. To our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate an association between PDK1 and survival in patients with ovarian cancer, supporting its efficacy as a valuable prognostic marker and therapeutic molecular target for the disease.
Clinical decision-making on spinal cord injury-associated pneumonia: a nationwide survey in Germany
Authors: Druschel Claudia , Ossami Saidy Ramin R. , Grittner Ulrike , Nowak Claus P. , Meisel Andreas , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Niedeggen Andreas , Liebscher Thomas , Kopp Marcel A. , Schwab Jan M.
Published: February 2020

Study design

Survey study.

Objectives

Spinal cord injury (SCI)-associated pneumonia (SCI-AP) is associated with poor functional recovery and a major cause of death after SCI. Better tackling SCI-AP requires a common understanding on how SCI-AP is defined. This survey examines clinical algorithms relevant for diagnosis and treatment of SCI-AP.

Setting

All departments for SCI-care in Germany.

Methods

The clinical decision-making on SCI-AP and the utility of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria for diagnosis of ‘clinically defined pneumonia’ were assessed by means of a standardized questionnaire including eight case vignettes of suspected SCI-AP. The diagnostic decisions based on the case information were analysed using classification and regression trees (CART).

Results

The majority of responding departments were aware of the CDC-criteria (88%). In the clinical vignettes, 38–81% of the departments diagnosed SCI-AP in accordance with the CDC-criteria and 7–41% diagnosed SCI-AP in deviation from the CDC-criteria. The diagnostic agreement was not associated with the availability of standard operating procedures for SCI-AP management in the departments. CART analysis identified radiological findings, fever, and worsened gas exchange as most important for the decision on SCI-AP. Frequently requested supplementary diagnostics were microbiological analyses, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin. For empirical antibiotic therapy, the departments used (acyl-)aminopenicillins/β-lactamase inhibitors, cephalosporins, or combinations of (acyl-)aminopenicillins/β-lactamase inhibitors with fluoroquinolones or carbapenems.

Conclusions

This survey reveals a diagnostic ambiguity regarding SCI-AP despite the awareness of CDC-criteria and established SOPs. Heterogeneous clinical practice is encouraging the development of disease-specific guidelines for diagnosis and management of SCI-AP.
A prospective trial of vaccine to prevent hepatitis B virus reactivation after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Nishikawa Koji , Kimura Kiminori , Kanda Yoshinobu , Sugiyama Masaya , Kakihana Kazuhiko , Doki Noriko , Ohashi Kazuteru , Bae Sung Kwan , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Ishihara Yuko , Mizuno Ishikazu , Onishi Yasushi , Onozawa Masahiro , Onizuka Makoto , Yamamoto Masahide , Ishikawa Tetsuya , Inoue Kazuaki , Kusumoto Shigeru , Hashino Satoshi , Saito Hidetsugu , Kanto Tatsuya , Sakamaki Hisashi , Mizokami Masashi
Published: February 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation reportedly occurs frequently after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in resolved HBV-infected patients. Here, 50 patients with resolved HBV infections and scheduled to undergo HSCT were enrolled; all subjects were vaccinated with three doses of hepatitis B vaccine 12 months after HSCT and the incidence of HBV reactivation was monitored. The patients’ characteristics were: median age, 61 (34–72) years; male/female, 27/19; allogeneic/autologous, 40/6; bone marrow/peripheral blood stem cells/cord blood, 26/16/4. Of the 46 patients who underwent HSCT, 19 were excluded and did not make it to vaccination due to relapse of underlying disease, HBV reactivation within 12 months of HSCT, or transfer of patients. The remaining 27 were vaccinated 12 months after HSCT and monitored for 2 years. Six showed HBV reactivation, with a 2-year cumulative reactivation incidence of 22.2%; the same incidence was 27.3% only in allogeneic HSCT patients. Factors associated with HBV reactivation included the discontinuation of immunosuppressants (P = 0.0379) and baseline titers of antibody against hepatitis B surface antigen (P = 0.004). HBV reactivation with vaccination following HSCT could occur despite maintenance of serum anti-HBs at more than protective levels.
Benefits of switching from guaiac-based faecal occult blood to faecal immunochemical testing: experience from the Wallonia–Brussels colorectal cancer screening programme
Authors: Guo Feng , De Brabander Isabel , Francart Julie , Candeur Michel , Polus Marc , Van Eycken Liesbet , Brenner Hermann
Published: February 2020

Background

Faecal immunochemical tests (FITs) have replaced guaiac-based faecal occult blood test (gFOBTs) in several colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programmes. We aimed to evaluate the benefits of this transition based on the Wallonia–Brussels-organised CRC screening programme.

Methods

A total of 1,569,868 individuals aged 50–74 years, who were invited to screening during 2009–2017, were studied by linking their screening records with insurance, pathology and cancer data in the Belgian Cancer Registry. We compared neoplasm detection rates and positive predictive values (PPVs) of gFOBT and FIT at 15 µg haemoglobin per gram cut-off in screen-naive individuals. We furthermore examined the incidence rates of interval cancer in gFOBT- and FIT-based screening programme.

Results

Advanced neoplasms were detected less frequently by gFOBT (0.8%) than by FIT (1.3%), with a difference of 0.5% (P < 0.01). PPVs were lower for gFOBT (15.1%) than for FIT (21.7%) for advanced neoplasms (difference 6.6%, P < 0.01). Compared to participants with negative gFOBT, those with negative FIT were 77% less likely to develop interval cancer (incidence rate ratio 0.23, 95% confidence interval 0.16–0.33).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that in an organised CRC screening programme, replacing gFOBT with FIT improved neoplasm detection rate and substantially reduced interval cancer incidence.
Anticancer effects of chemokine-directed antigen delivery to a cross-presenting dendritic cell subset with immune checkpoint blockade
Authors: Mizumoto Yuki , Hemmi Hiroaki , Katsuda Masahiro , Miyazawa Motoki , Kitahata Yuji , Miyamoto Atsushi , Nakamori Mikihito , Ojima Toshiyasu , Matsuda Kenji , Nakamura Masaki , Hayata Keiji , Fukuda-Ohta Yuri , Sugiyama Masanaka , Ohta Tomokazu , Orimo Takashi , Okura Soichiro , Sasaki Izumi , Tamada Koji , Yamaue Hiroki , Kaisho Tsuneyasu
Published: February 2020

Background

Cancer peptide vaccines show only marginal effects against cancers. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show significant curative effects in certain types of cancers, but the response rate is still limited. In this study, we aim to improve cancer peptide vaccination by targeting Ag peptides selectively to a dendritic cell (DC) subset, XCR1-expressing DCs (XCR1+DCs), with high ability to support CD8+T-cell responses.

Methods

We have generated a fusion protein, consisting of an Ag peptide presented with MHC class I, and an XCR1 ligand, XCL1, and examined its effects on antitumour immunity in mice.

Results

The fusion protein was delivered to XCR1+DCs in an XCR1-dependent manner. Immunisation with the fusion protein plus an immune adjuvant, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acids (poly(I:C)), more potently induced Ag-specific CD8+T-cell responses through XCR1 than the Ag peptide plus poly(I:C) or the Ag protein plus poly(I:C). The fusion protein plus poly(I:C) inhibited the tumour growth efficiently in the prophylactic and therapeutic tumour models. Furthermore, the fusion protein plus poly(I:C) showed suppressive effects on tumour growth in synergy with anti-PD-1 Ab.

Conclusions

Cancer Ag targeting to XCR1+DCs should be a promising procedure as a combination anticancer therapy with immune checkpoint blockade.
Sestrin2 protects dendritic cells against endoplasmic reticulum stress-related apoptosis induced by high mobility group box-1 protein
Authors: Wang Li-Xue , Zhu Xiao-Mei , Luo Yi-Nan , Wu Yao , Dong Ning , Tong Ya-lin , Yao Yong-Ming
Published: February 2020

Sestrin2 (SESN2) is a highly evolutionary conserved protein and involved in different cellular responses to various stresses. However, the potential function of SESN2 in immune system remains unclear. The present study was designed to test whether dendritic cells (DCs) could express SESN2, and investigate the underlying molecular mechanism as well as its potential significance. Herein, we firstly reported that SESN2 was expressed in DCs after high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1) stimulation and the apoptosis of DCs was obviously increased when SESN2 gene silenced by siRNA. Cells undergone SESN2-knockdown promoted endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (ERS)-related cell death, markedly exacerbated ER disruption as well as the formation of dilated and aggregated structures, and they significantly aggravated the extent of ERS response. Conversely, overexpressing SESN2 DCs markedly decreased apoptotic rates and attenuated HMGB1-induced ER morphology fragment together with inhibition of ERS-related protein translation. Furthermore, sesn2−/−-deficient mice manifested increased DC apoptosis and aggravated ERS extent in septic model. These results indicate that SESN2 appears to be a potential regulator to inhibit apoptotic ERS signaling that exerts a protective effect on apoptosis of DCs in the setting of septic challenge.
Inhibition of IκBα phosphorylation potentiates regulated cell death induced by azidothymidine in HTLV-1 infected cells
Authors: Matteucci Claudia , Marino-Merlo Francesca , Minutolo Antonella , Balestrieri Emanuela , Valletta Elena , Macchi Beatrice , Mastino Antonio , Grelli Sandro
Published: February 2020

Adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) can be susceptible, at least transiently, to treatments with azidothymidine (AZT) plus IFNα and/or arsenic trioxide. However, the real role of AZT in this effect is still unclear. In fact, while reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibition could explain reduction of clonal expansion and of renewal of HTLV-1 infected cells during ATL progression, this effect alone seems insufficient to justify the evident and prompt decrease of the pro-viral load in treated patients. We have previously demonstrated that AZT is endowed with an intrinsic pro-apoptotic potential towards both peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors or some tumor cell lines, but this cytotoxic potential cannot be fully achieved unless IκBα phosphorylation is inhibited. Since the constitutive activation of NF-kappa B (NF-κB) appears a common biological basis of HTLV-1-infected cells, a pharmacological inhibition of IκBα phosphorylation seems a potential strategy for treating and preventing HTLV-1 related pathologies. In this study, we have demonstrated that a combination treatment with the IκBα phosphorylation inhibitor Bay 11-7085 and AZT induced increased levels of regulated cell death (RCD) by apoptosis compared to the single treatments in HTLV-1 infected cells of different origin. Importantly, levels of RCD were considerably higher in infected cells in comparison with the uninfected ones. Inhibition of NF-κB activation following the combined treatment was confirmed by analysis of both gel-shift and functional activity of the NF-κB complex proteins, p65/p52. Moreover, a transcriptional analysis revealed that the addition of Bay 11-7085 to AZT treatment in HTLV-1-infected cells modified their transcriptional profile, by inducing the upregulation of some pro-apoptotic genes together with the downregulation of some anti-apoptotic genes. Our data suggest that addition of adequate concentrations of IκBα phosphorylation inhibitor to therapeutic regimens including AZT could be a promising strategy in ATL.
Assessment of modelling strategies for drug response prediction in cell lines and xenografts
Authors: Kurilov Roman , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Brors Benedikt
Published: February 2020

Data from several large high-throughput drug response screens have become available to the scientific community recently. Although many efforts have been made to use this information to predict drug sensitivity, our ability to accurately predict drug response based on genetic data remains limited. In order to systematically examine how different aspects of modelling affect the resulting prediction accuracy, we built a range of models for seven drugs (erlotinib, pacliatxel, lapatinib, PLX4720, sorafenib, nutlin-3 and nilotinib) using data from the largest available cell line and xenograft drug sensitivity screens. We found that the drug response metric, the choice of the molecular data type and the number of training samples have a substantial impact on prediction accuracy. We also compared the tasks of drug response prediction with tissue type prediction and found that, unlike for drug response, tissue type can be predicted with high accuracy. Furthermore, we assessed our ability to predict drug response in four xenograft cohorts (treated either with erlotinib, gemcitabine or paclitaxel) using models trained on cell line data. We could predict response in an erlotinib-treated cohort with a moderate accuracy (correlation ≈ 0.5), but were unable to correctly predict responses in cohorts treated with gemcitabine or paclitaxel.
Effect of nanoencapsulation on volatile constituents, and antioxidant and anticancer activities of Algerian Origanum glandulosum Desf. essential oil
Authors: Ali Hatem , Al-Khalifa Abdel Rahman , Aouf Abdelhakim , Boukhebti Habiba , Farouk Amr
Published: February 2020

Nanoencapsulation is an attractive novel technique used for incorporating essential oils in food preparations and pharmaceutical formulae. This study investigated the effect of nanoencapsulation on the composition of volatile compounds, as well as the antioxidant and anticancer activities of hydrodistilled (HD)Origanum glandulosumDesf. Oil, which was encapsulated into nanocapsules via High Speed Homogenization (HSH) and into nanoemulsions through High Pressure Homogenization (HPH). Thirty-two volatile components were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) in HD essential oil representing 99.04% of the total oil content. GC-MS analysis showed that the use of HPH to prepare nanoemulsions negatively affected the active compounds present in HD oil, particularly carvacrol and thymol, whereas the use of HSH led to significant quantitative differences in the composition of volatiles between HD oil and nanocapsules but generated the same profile. Consistent with the differences in total phenolics, total flavonoids, and volatiles identified in HD and nanoparticles, HD essential oil exhibited a higher antioxidant activity (IC504.22 mg/mL) than nanocapsules (IC5057.51 mg/mL) and nanoemulsion (IC5078.50 mg/mL), while nanocapsules showed the strongest cytotoxic effect on liver cancer cell line Hep-G2 (54.93 μg/mL) in comparison to HD oil (73.13 μg/mL) and nanoemulsions (131.6 μg/mL).
Reduced micromorphic model in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates and its application to a metamaterial hemisphere
Authors: El Dhaba A. R.
Published: February 2020

The reduced micromorphic model (RMM) is used to study the effect of the applied force on a hemisphere made of phononic crystals that belongs to the metamaterials group. The strain tensor, the micro-strain tensor and the coupling between them are the kinematic relations used to measure the deformation and micro-deformation of the representative volume element of these materials. The free energy function, the constitutive relations, the field equations, and the boundary conditions are presented firstly in the Cartesian coordinate. Then, the orthogonal curvilinear coordinates are introduced as a general coordinate to describe the physical quantities included in the RMM. The spherical coordinates are deduced as a special case from the curvilinear coordinates to study the deformation and micro-deformation for the hemisphere. The kinematic relations and the governing equations of the model are considered to changing with the radius of the hemisphere only. The analytical solutions of the field equations are also obtained by using the Frobenius series satisfying the given boundary conditions and consequently the value of the physical constants of the problem is determined. Numerical applications for the obtained results are introduced with discussion. The results showed that the displacement has a greater effect rather than the micro-strain, when it is measured relative to the classical physical quantities while the micro-strain has a greater effect rather than the displacement, when it is measured relative to the nanoscale physical quantities.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Biosynthesis of Important Bioactive Constituents and Mechanism of Stem Formation of Dendrobium huoshanense
Authors: Zhou Peina , Pu Tianzhen , Gui Chun , Zhang Xiuqiao , Gong Ling
Published: February 2020

The stem of Dendrobium huoshanense C.Z. Tang and S.J. Cheng was widely used as a medicinal herb in health care products due to its broad pharmacological activities. However, the molecular regulation mechanism of stem development and biosynthetic pathways of important bioactive substances are still unclear in D. huoshanense. In this study, the bioactive compounds in leaves, stems and roots, and the identification of candidate genes involved in stem formation and biosynthesis of active compounds via transcriptome sequence were analyzed. The accumulation of total polysaccharides and flavonoids were varied significantly in different tissues. A comparative transcriptomic analysis revealed several differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in polysaccharides biosynthesis (103 genes), including fructose and mannose related genes (29 genes) and glycosyltransferase genes (74 genes), and flavonoids biosynthesis (15 genes). Some candidate genes that participated in photoperiod regulation (27 genes), starch and sucrose metabolism (46 genes), and hormone-induced activation of signaling pathways (38 genes) may be involved in stem formation. In sum, this study provides a foundation for investigating the molecular processes in the biosynthesis of active compounds and stem development. The transcriptome data presented here provides an important resource for the future studies of the molecular genetics and functional genomics in D. huoshanense and optimized control of the active compounds produced by D. huoshanense.
Author Correction: Hesperidin and capsaicin, but not the combination, prevent hepatic steatosis and other metabolic syndrome-related alterations in western diet-fed rats
Authors: Mosqueda-Solís Andrea , Sánchez Juana , Reynés Bárbara , Palou Mariona , Portillo María P. , Palou Andreu , Picó Catalina
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Spatio-temporal expression of ANK2 promotes cytokinesis in oocytes
Authors: Tetkova Anna , Jansova Denisa , Susor Andrej
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Synthesis, characterization and unusual near-infrared luminescence of 1,1,4,4-tetracyanobutadiene derivatives
Authors: Bui Anh Thy , Philippe Clotilde , Beau Maxime , Richy Nicolas , Cordier Marie , Roisnel Thierry , Lemiègre Loïc , Mongin Olivier , Paul Frédéric , Trolez Yann
Published: February 2020

Two 1,1,4,4-tetracyanobutadiene (TCBD) derivatives were prepared by reaction of tetracyanoethylene with ynamides bearing either a pyrene or a perylene unit. They display luminescence that could be detected up to 1350 nm in the solid state.