bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power law decay of stored pattern stability in sparse Hopfield neural networks
Authors: Fang Fei , Yang Zhou , Wang Sheng-Jun
Published: January 2021

Hopfield neural networks on scale-free networks display the power law relation between the stability of patterns and the number of patterns. The stability is measured by the overlap between the output state and the stored pattern which is presented to a neural network. In simulations the overlap declines to a constant by a power law decay. Here we provide the explanation for the power law behavior through the signal-to-noise ratio analysis. We show that on sparse networks storing a plenty of patterns the stability of stored patterns can be approached by a power law function with the exponent −0.5. There is a difference between analytic and simulation results that the analytic results of overlap decay to 0. The difference exists because the signal and noise term of nodes diverge from the mean-field approach in the sparse finite size networks.
Performance test and analysis of the first large-scale cable-in-conduit conductor with high J
c Nb3Sn strand for fusion reactor
Authors: Dai Chao , Wu Yu , Li Jiangang , Guo Zichuan , Qin Jinggang , Long Feng , Nijhuis Arend , Bruzzone Pierluigi , Stepanov Boris , Shi Yi , Liu Sheng , Zhang Yongliang , Derevd Arnaud , Xiang Binglun
Published: January 2021

The Comprehensive Research Facility for Fusion Technology (CRAFT) project has been launched in 2019, for developing the essential engineering technologies for Chinese Fusion Engineering Testing Reactor (CFETR). Within this project, a full-size toroidal field (TF) coil will be built as the prototype coil for CFETR. Based on design of CFETR magnet system, the TF coil will operate at 95.6 kA in a peak field of 14.5 T. The high-J
c Nb3Sn strand is taken into consideration due to the critical current density of ITER-grade Nb3Sn is too low at 14.5 T. Considering that it will be the first time to apply the high-J
c Nb3Sn strand in the large-scale cable-in-conduit conductor (CICC) for fusion magnet, a conductor sample made of high-J
c Nb3Sn strand with short twist pitch (STP) cable pattern was manufactured in ASIPP and tested in SULTAN facility, to investigate the feasibility. The test campaign focuses on the impact of cyclic electromagnetic (EM) loading and warm-up cool-down (WUCD) to the performance of the conductor, the strain distribution of the conductor before and after EM cycles was measured by inductive method to make a deeper insight of the conductor performance evolution. AC losses tests have also been carried out, providing relevant information for further coil design.
Solving oscillations problems through affine quantization
Authors: Aremua Isiaka , Gouba Laure
Published: January 2021

In this paper the benefits of affine quantization method are highlighted through oscillation problems. We show how affine quantization is able to solve oscillation problems when canonical quantization fails.
Quantum nanostructures for plasmonics and high refractive index photonics
Authors: Toudert Johann
Published: January 2021

Although plasmonics and high refractive index photonics have experienced very fast growth thanks to classical physics concepts, there is an increasing interest in harnessing quantum physics concepts for further pushing the frontiers of these fields. In this context, this perspective highlights the importance of some quantum nanostructures for building nanomaterials and metamaterials with enhanced plasmonic and high refractive index properties. Two types of nanostructures displaying quantum properties are considered: (a) quantum confined nanostructures consisting of noble metals or standard semiconductors, (b) nanostructures built from alternative materials whose dielectric function and optical properties are driven by (possibly tailored) giant interband electronic transitions. A special emphasis is made on the potential of this latter type of nanostructures for achieving outstanding effects for applications, such as ultrabroadband light harvesting, giant refractive index, coupling between dielectric, low-loss plasmonic and magnetic properties, compositionally or externally tuneable optical response. Possible future developments to the field are discussed.
Comparative study between pure and manganese doped copper sulphide (CuS) nanoparticles
Authors: Tailor Jiten P , Chaki S H , Deshpande M P
Published: January 2021

The pure CuS and Mn2+ doped CuS nanoparticles are synthesized by wet chemical route. The CuS phase and hexagonal crystal structure is confirmed by the powder X-ray diffraction and Raman analysis. The vibrational bonds present in the respective synthesized samples are confirmed by Fourier transformed infra-red spectroscopy. The spherical shapes of the nanoparticles are validated by the electron diffraction in scanning and transmission mode. The thermal analysis showed the Mn2+ doped CuS nanoparticles to be more stable than pure CuS nanoparticles. The thermal parameters determined using Coats-Redfern relation stated thermal activation energy and enthalpy change values are highest in the higher temperature range. The Seebeck coefficient variation with temperature and ambient condition Hall effect measurements showed the synthesized nanoparticles to be semiconducting and p-type in nature. The magnetic properties study by Gouy method showed the nanoparticles to be paramagnetic.
SWOTein: a structure-based approach to predict stability Strengths and Weaknesses of prOTEINs
Authors: Hou Qingzhen , Pucci Fabrizio , Ancien François , Kwasigroch Jean Marc , Bourgeas Raphaël , Rooman Marianne
Published: January 2021

Motivation

Although structured proteins adopt their lowest free energy conformation in physiological conditions, the individual residues are generally not in their lowest free energy conformation. Residues that are stability weaknesses are often involved in functional regions, whereas stability strengths ensure local structural stability. The detection of strengths and weaknesses provides key information to guide protein engineering experiments aiming to modulate folding and various functional processes.

Results

We developed the SWOTein predictor which identifies strong and weak residues in proteins on the basis of three types of statistical energy functions describing local interactions along the chain, hydrophobic forces and tertiary interactions. The large-scale analysis of the different types of strengths and weaknesses demonstrated their complementarity and the enhancement of the information they provide. Moreover, a good average correlation was observed between predicted and experimental strengths and weaknesses obtained from native hydrogen exchange data. SWOTein application to three test cases further showed its suitability to predict and interpret strong and weak residues in the context of folding, conformational changes and protein-protein binding. In summary, SWOTein is both fast and accurate and can be applied at small and large scale to analyze and modulate folding and molecular recognition processes.

Availabilityand implementation

The SWOTein webserver provides the list of predicted strengths and weaknesses and a protein structure visualization tool that facilitates the interpretation of the predictions. It is freely available for academic use at http://babylone.ulb.ac.be/SWOTein/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Open versus laparoscopic incisional hernia repair: nationwide database study
Authors: Henriksen N A , Friis-Andersen H , Jorgensen L N , Helgstrand F
Published: January 2021

Background

Although laparoscopic repair of incisional hernias decreases the incidence of wound complications compared with open repair, there has been rising concern related to intraperitoneal mesh placement. The aim of this study was to examine outcomes after open or laparoscopic elective incisional hernia mesh repair on a nationwide basis.

Methods

This study analysed merged data from the Danish Hernia Database and the National Patient Registry on perioperative information, 90-day readmission, 90-day reoperation for complication, and long-term operation for hernia recurrence among patients who underwent primary repair of an incisional hernia between 2007 and 2018.

Results

A total of 3090 (57.5 per cent) and 2288 (42.5 per cent) patients had surgery by a laparoscopic and open approach respectively. The defect was closed in 865 of 3090 laparoscopic procedures (28.0 per cent). The median follow-up time was 4.0 (i.q.r. 1.8–6.8) years. Rates of readmission (502 of 3090 (16.2 per cent) versus 442 of 2288 (19.3 per cent); P = 0.003) and reoperation for complication (216 of 3090 (7.0 per cent) versus 288 of 2288 (12.5 per cent); P < 0.001) were significantly lower for laparoscopic than open repairs. Reoperation for bowel obstruction or bowel resection was twice as common after laparoscopic repair compared with open repair (20 of 3090 (0.6 per cent) versus 6 of 2288 (0.3 per cent); P = 0.044). Patients were significantly less likely to undergo repair of recurrence following laparoscopic compared with open repair of defect widths 2–6 cm (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic intraperitoneal mesh repair for incisional hernia should still be considered for fascial defects between 2 and 6 cm, because of decreased rates of early complications and repair of hernia recurrence compared with open repair.
Odor–Taste Interactions in Food Perception: Exposure Protocol Shows No Effects of Associative Learning
Authors: Fondberg Robin , Lundström Johan N , Seubert Janina
Published: January 2021

Repeated exposure can change the perceptual and hedonic features of flavor. Associative learning during which a flavor’s odor component is affected by co-exposure with taste is thought to be central in this process. However, changes can also arise due to exposure to the odor in itself. The aim of this study was to dissociate effects of associative learning from effects of exposure without taste by repeatedly presenting one odor together with sucrose and a second odor alone. Sixty individuals attended two testing sessions separated by a 5-day Exposure Phase during which the stimuli were presented as flavorants in chewing gums that were chewed three times daily. Ratings of odor sweetness, odor pleasantness, odor intensity enhancement by taste, and odor referral to the mouth were collected at both sessions. Consistent with the notion that food preferences are modulated by exposure, odor pleasantness increased between the sessions independently of whether the odor (basil or orange flower) had been presented with or without sucrose. However, we found no evidence of associative learning in any of the tasks. In addition, exploratory equivalence tests suggested that these effects were either absent or insignificant in magnitude. Taken together, our results suggest that the hypothesized effects of associative learning are either smaller than previously thought or highly dependent on the experimental setting. Future studies are needed to evaluate the relative support for these explanations and, if experimental conditions can be identified that reliably produce such effects, to identify factors that regulate the formation of new odor–taste associations.
Cardiac Remodeling and Hypertension in HIV-Uninfected Infants Exposed in utero to Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: García-Otero Laura , López Marta , Goncé Anna , Fortuny Claudia , Salazar Laura , Valenzuela-Alcaraz Brenda , Guirado Laura , César Sergi , Gratacós Eduard , Crispi Fátima
Published: January 2021

Background

We aimed to assess the postnatal pattern of cardiovascular remodeling associated with intrauterine exposure to maternal HIV and antiretroviral treatment (ART).

Methods

Prospective cohort including 34 HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) infants and 53 non-HIV-exposed infants were evaluated from fetal life up to 6 months postnatally. A cardiovascular evaluation was performed including echocardiography, blood pressure, and carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) measurement.

Results

ART regimens during pregnancy included 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (Abacavir + Lamivudine (32.4%), Emtricitabine + Tenofovir (41.2%), and Zidovudine + Lamivudine (20.6%)). At 6 months of age, HIV-exposed uninfected infants showed thicker myocardial walls (septal wall thickness mean 5.02 mm (SD 0.85) vs 3.98 mm (0.86); P < .001), relative systolic dysfunction with decreased mitral ring displacement (8.57 mm (2.03) vs 10.34 mm (1.84); P = .002), and decreased tricuspid S’ (9.71 cm/s (1.94) vs 11.54 cm/s (2.07); P = .003) together with relative diastolic dysfunction showed by prolonged left isovolumic relaxation time (58.57 ms (13.79) vs 47.94 (7.39); P < .001). Vascular assessment showed significantly higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure (102 mmHg (16.1) vs 80 mmHg (13.9); P < .001 and 64 mmHg (14.4) vs 55 mmHg (10.2); P = .045 respectively), with 50% of HIV-exposed children meeting criteria for hypertension vs 3.77% of the non-HIV-exposed group (P < .001) and thicker mean cIMT in the HIV-exposed group (0.62 µm (0.09) vs 0.51 µm (0.09); P = .015).

Conclusions

Subclinical cardiac impairment together with higher blood pressure and thicker cIMT were observed in HIV-exposed infants at 6 months of age. Half of them presented hypertension. Our findings support a possible increased cardiovascular risk in HIV uninfected infants exposed in utero to ART.
Treatment for severe COVID-19 with a biomimetic sorbent haemoperfusion device in patients on haemodialysis
Authors: Sandoval Diego , Rama Inés , Quero María , Hueso Miguel , Gómez Francisco , Cruzado Josep M
Published: January 2021

Haemodialysis (HD) patients present more morbidity and mortality risk in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In patients who may develop severe symptoms, the process called ‘viral sepsis’ seems to be a crucial mechanism. In those cases, the HD procedure provides an excellent tool to explore the benefit of some extracorporeal therapies. We reported the outcome of four HD patients with severe COVID-19 treated with Seraph®100 haemoperfusion (HP) device. Three of the four cases presented a good clinical response after HP. In conclusion, the treatment with Seraph®100 device may be a simultaneous treatment to improve HD patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.
EACVI recommendations on cardiovascular imaging for the detection of embolic sources: endorsed by the Canadian Society of Echocardiography
Authors: Cohen Ariel , Donal Erwan , Delgado Victoria , Pepi Mauro , Tsang Teresa , Gerber Bernhard , Soulat-Dufour Laurie , Habib Gilbert , Lancellotti Patrizio , Evangelista Arturo , Cujec Bibiana , Fine Nowell , Andrade Maria Joao , Sprynger Muriel , Dweck Marc , Edvardsen Thor , Popescu Bogdan A ,   Reviewers: This document was reviewed by members of the 2018–2020 EACVI Scientific Documents Committee, Bertrand Philippe , Galderisi Maurizio , Haugaa Kristina H , Sade Leyla Elif , Stankovic Ivan ,   the chair of the 2018–2020 EACVI Scientific Documents Committee, Cosyns Bernard
Published: January 2021

Cardioaortic embolism to the brain accounts for approximately 15–30% of ischaemic strokes and is often referred to as ‘cardioembolic stroke’. One-quarter of patients have more than one cardiac source of embolism and 15% have significant cerebrovascular atherosclerosis. After a careful work-up, up to 30% of ischaemic strokes remain ‘cryptogenic’, recently redefined as ‘embolic strokes of undetermined source’. The diagnosis of cardioembolic stroke remains difficult because a potential cardiac source of embolism does not establish the stroke mechanism. The role of cardiac imaging—transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE), cardiac computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—in the diagnosis of potential cardiac sources of embolism, and for therapeutic guidance, is reviewed in these recommendations. Contrast TTE/TOE is highly accurate for detecting left atrial appendage thrombosis in patients with atrial fibrillation, valvular and prosthesis vegetations and thrombosis, aortic arch atheroma, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defect, and intracardiac tumours. Both CT and MRI are highly accurate for detecting cavity thrombosis, intracardiac tumours, and valvular prosthesis thrombosis. Thus, CT and cardiac magnetic resonance should be considered in addition to TTE and TOE in the detection of a cardiac source of embolism. We propose a diagnostic algorithm where vascular imaging and contrast TTE/TOE are considered the first-line tool in the search for a cardiac source of embolism. CT and MRI are considered as alternative and complementary tools, and their indications are described on a case-by-case approach.
Mitral valvulitis as a severe extra-articular manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis: a case report
Authors: Frederiksen Anne Sofie , Jørgensen Steen Hylgaard , Wiggers Henrik , Hauge Ellen-Margrethe
Published: January 2021

Background

Extra-articular manifestations (EAMs) are common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cardiac EAMs are rare but may cause complete heart block and damage to the heart valves.

Case summary

We present the case of a middle-aged woman with long-standing RA and EAMs as the most prominent symptoms. The patient experienced complete atrioventricular heart block and developed nodular vegetations affecting the mitral valve, ultimately leading to severe mitral regurgitation and valve replacement.

Discussion

The diagnosis of cardiac EAMs in RA may be challenging for the clinicians. Symptoms and findings may mimic more common conditions such as malignancy and infectious endocarditis. A multidisciplinary approach is of paramount importance in order to make an early diagnosis and to provide optimal treatment to patients with RA and cardiac complications.
A novel treatment using a guide extension catheter and distal protection device for refractory coronary embolism: case report
Authors: Kusumoto Hirofumi , Hasegawa Katsuyuki , Ishibuchi Kasumi , Otsuji Satoru
Published: January 2021

Background

A large thrombus burden in patients with acute myocardial infarction is associated with worse outcomes. Although various methods of thrombus aspiration have been described, there is a potential limitation in the mechanism of eliminating a thrombus with only the use of an aspiration device. In this report, we present a novel method of retrieving massive thrombus using a guide extension catheter and a filter device.

Case summary

An 80-year-old man was diagnosed with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Emergency coronary angiography revealed that the left anterior descending artery (LAD) showed an acute thrombotic occlusion in the mid-section. The percutaneous coronary intervention was performed to recanalize an occluded LAD. Although thrombectomy using an aspiration catheter and a guide catheter extension system was performed repeatedly, only a small amount of the thrombus was retrieved, and the LAD was still occluded. Therefore, we planned to remove the large thrombus burden by capturing the entire thrombus between the tip of the guide extension catheter and distal protection device, followed by pulling them out of the guide catheter together. A large amount of red thrombus, which adhered to the axis of the filter device, was successfully retrieved. The occluded LAD was successfully recanalized without balloon dilatation or stent implantation.

Discussion

Although a variety of aspiration devices are available, removal of large coronary artery thrombi with the use of an aspiration catheter alone can at times prove difficult. To solve this problem, we developed a novel technique for retrieving large thrombi. This method is effective in removing refractory thrombi for the treatment of STEMI patients.
Mechanical valve replacement without anticoagulation: a case report
Authors: Wang Yapeng , Lin Min , Ge Shenglin , Feng Junbo
Published: January 2021

Background

For patients who undergo mechanical valve replacement, the greatest disadvantage is that they require long-term or permanent use of anticoagulant therapy to prevent thromboembolism. To date, mechanical valve replacement without anticoagulation has been published in the literature.

Case summary

We present the case of a 75-year-old female who underwent mechanical mitral valve replacement (MVR) on mid-June, 2007. However, this patient had not been taking anticoagulant medication since she experienced warfarin overdose in the first month after the operation. She had been well without using any anticoagulation, and there were no complications of the mechanical valve.

Discussion

There was no thrombosis for such a long period of time because she suffered from FX deficiency. To the best of our knowledge, she may be the only patient who has been well without any anticoagulation since not taking warfarin 12 years ago.
Endovascular stenting of blunt aortic isthmus rupture in a 5-year-old child
Authors: Haddad Raymond N , Pontailler Margaux , Berteloot Laureline , Malekzadeh-Milani Sophie
Published: January 2021

Blunt traumatic aortic tear is an extremely rare and life-threatening paediatric emergency. Percutaneous repair is highly debateable in children due to anatomic limitations. Herein, we report an important case of a 5-year-old boy diagnosed with grade 3 aortic isthmus disruption following fifth-floor defenestration. The 96-h control computerized tomography (CT) scan showed an increase in the pseudoaneurysm size with small active bleeding motivating endovascular covered stenting that was safely and efficiently performed with good outcomes.
Comparing income and wealth inequality in pre-industrial economies: the case of Castile (Spain) in the eighteenth century
Authors: Nicolini Esteban A , Ramos-Palencia Fernando
Published: January 2021

Most research on inequality in pre-industrial economies has focused on either wealth or income, generating not readily comparable results. In this paper, we use a unique data set of Spain circa 1750 including information on (among other things) wealth and income for the same sample of households. Our findings provide methodological insights showing that a household’s position in the income distribution is strongly correlated with its position in the wealth distribution but is also influenced by several other household specific characteristics like human capital of the head of the household and the economic sector of her/his main occupation.
Validity and reliability of the Mandarin version of the Treatment Burden Questionnaire among stroke patients in Mainland China
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Ke , Li Miao , Gu Jiaxin , Li Xintong , Li Mingzi , Jin Yi
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To examine the validity and reliability of the Mandarin version of the Treatment Burden Questionnaire (TBQ) among stroke patients.

Background

Stroke patients need long-term management of symptoms and life situation, and treatment burden has recently emerged as a new concept that can influence the health outcomes during the rehabilitation process.

Methods

The convenience sampling method was used to recruit 187 cases of stroke patients in a tertiary grade hospital in Tianjin for a formal investigation. Item analysis, reliability and validity tests were carried out. The reliability test included internal consistency and test–retest reliability. And as well as content, structure and convergent validity were performed for the validity test.

Results

Of the 187 completed questionnaires, only 180 (96.3%) were suitable for analysis. According to the experts’ evaluation, the I-CVI of each item was from 0.833 to 1.000, and the S-CVI was 0.967. The exploratory factor analysis yielded three-factor components with a cumulative variation of 53.054%. Convergent validity was demonstrated using measures of Morisky’s Medication Adherence Scale 8 (r = –0.450, P < 0.01). All correlations between items and global scores ranged from 0.403 to 0.638. Internal consistency reliability and test–retest reliability were found to be acceptable, as indicated by a Cronbach’s α of 0.824 and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.846, respectively.

Conclusions

The Mandarin TBQ had acceptable validity and reliability. The use of TBQ in the assessment of treatment burden of stroke survivor may benefit health resources allocation and provide tailor therapeutic interventions to construct minimally disruptive care.
In Search of Answers to Questions about Electronic Sports and Copyright
Authors: Sztobryn Karolina
Published: January 2021

Esports is a developing field of activity, and awareness of it has been increased by the activity of players and spectators during the COVID-19 pandemic. This in turn is attracting advertisers and investments, which, however, depend on the certainty of the legal background of this activity. In light of the importance of the esports industry and the uncertainties related to normative issues, it would be desirable to start an international debate that could potentially lead to the clarification or establishing of legal regulations for esports. This would make possible the clarification of doubtful issues related to copyright and would give answers to many relevant questions, such as are esports sports and does that matter from the copyright perspective? Is a computer game protected under copyright? Is a player an author or an artistic performer with regard to a computer game? Is the transmission of gameplay permissible under copyright law? This article searches for answers to these questions, presenting the possibilities and challenges of applying the current copyright law and jurisprudence in the context of esports, which are something more than just the activity of playing computer games and something different from traditional sports.
The dolutegravir/valproic acid drug–drug interaction is primarily based on protein displacement
Authors: Bollen P D J , Prins H A B , Colbers A , Velthoven-Graafland K , Rijnders B J A , de Vries-Sluijs T E M S , van Nood E , Nouwen J , Bax H , de Mendonca Melo M , Verbon A , Burger D M , Rokx C
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The dolutegravir/valproic acid drug–drug interaction (DDI) is suggested to be caused by protein displacement. Here, we assess the underlying mechanism.

Methods

Participants in a randomized controlled trial investigating valproic acid as an HIV latency reversing agent were recruited in a predefined pharmacokinetic substudy if they were on once-daily 50 mg dolutegravir-containing combination ART (cART) for >12 months with a plasma HIV-RNA <50 copies/mL (trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03525730). Participants were randomized to receive 30 mg/kg/day valproic acid orally (divided into two equal doses) for 14 days or not. Total and unbound dolutegravir concentrations were measured on day 0 (before intake of valproic acid and 6 h after intake of valproic acid) and on days 1, 7, 14 and 42. Intra- and inter-subject dolutegravir concentrations and geometric means (GMs) were evaluated.

Results

Six of 10 participants on dolutegravir were randomized to receive valproic acid. During 14 days of valproic acid treatment, the GM total dolutegravir concentration decreased sharply from 1.36 mg/L on day 0 to 0.85, 0.31 and 0.20 mg/L on days 0, 1, 7 and 14, respectively, while total dolutegravir concentrations in the controls remained comparable during the same period: 1.27–1.49 mg/L. We observed a parallel increase in unbound dolutegravir fractions ranging from 0.39% to 0.58% during valproic acid administration, compared with 0.25% to 0.28% without valproic acid. Unbound dolutegravir concentrations were above the established in vitro EC90 value for unbound dolutegravir in 85% of the tested samples.

Conclusions

This study confirms protein displacement as the main mechanism for this DDI, although additional mechanisms might be involved too. If dolutegravir is taken with food, this DDI is probably not clinically relevant.
Preference for inorganic sources of magnesium and phosphorus in sheep as a function of need
Authors: Pedernera Mariana , Mereu Alessandro , Villalba Juan J
Published: January 2021

We determined whether sheep discriminate among different mineral supplements containing P and Mg and if they modify their selection as a function of the basal diet received. Forty lambs were offered four-way choices among inorganic sources of P and Mg: magnesium oxide in its coarse 1) C-MgO and granular 2) MgO forms and magnesium phosphate: 3) Mag33 (33% Mg and 2.7% P), and 4) MGP (25% Mg and 15% P), and two-way choices between MGP and each of the other minerals, and between MgO and C-MgO (baseline). Subsequently, lambs were randomly assigned to four groups (10 lambs/group) and fed rations such that the levels of Mg and P were low (LMg_LP), adequate (NMg_NP), low in Mg and adequate in P (LMg_NP), or adequate in Mg and low in P (NMg_LP). After 29 d, choice tests (post-deficiency) were repeated. During baseline, lambs ate and preferred Mag33 > C-MgO = MGP > MgO (P < 0.05). This pattern remained during post-deficiency tests, but lambs in LMg_LP and LMg_NP increased their preference for MGP and C-MgO, respectively, whereas lambs in NMg_LP increased their preference for C-MgO and MGP relative to baseline (P < 0.05). The serum concentrations of P and Mg increased after preference tests, and preference for MgO and MGP in low-Mg groups increased as the serum concentration of Mg declined (P < 0.05). Thus, lambs discriminated among different minerals and some groups modified their preferences based on the basal diets received, which rectified mineral imbalances.
Hector de Garriod (1803–1883): a marchand amateur in Risorgimento Italy
Authors: Giacomelli Luca
Published: January 2021

Baron Hector de Garriod (1803–1883) was a Savoyard nobleman who resided in Florence for most of his life, from 1835 to 1883, taking an active part in the social and artistic life of the city in the years of the Risorgimento and after the unification of Italy. His correspondence, surviving in a private archive in Cortona, and other documents that have surfaced in Italy and elsewhere in Europe, shed fresh light on this interesting yet neglected marchand amateur – his activities as an art dealer, his relationships with international museum agents and his dealings with renowned art collectors. Specific attention is paid here to Garriod’s private collection, now kept at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Chambéry, which represents one of the most important bequests of seventeenth-century Italian paintings to a French museum.
Patterns of Asthma Medication Use across the Transition to High School
Authors: McQuaid Elizabeth L , Kopel Sheryl J , Seifer Ronald , Tackett Alayna , Farrow Michael , Koinis-Mitchell Daphne , Dunsiger Shira
Published: January 2021

Objective

Adherence to asthma controller medications is suboptimal among adolescents. We evaluated predictors of adherence and longitudinal patterns of medication use between 8th and 10th grade among a sample of youth of diverse race/ethnicity.

Methods

Eighth graders with asthma on controller medications (N = 62; 40.0% non-Latino white; 23.7% Black; 37.3% Latino; 37.3% female) completed measures of medication beliefs, responsibility for asthma management, and family cohesion. Objective methods tracked medication use longitudinally.

Results

Adherence declined during the high school transition, from 48.0% in eighth grade to 34.1% in tenth grade (F = 5.35, p < .01). Males had lower adherence (b = −10.11, SE = 5.37, p = .02, f2 = 0.11), as did Latino youth (b = −12.21, SE = 8.23, p = .03, f2 = 0.12). Family cohesion was associated with higher adherence (b = 4.38, SE = 1.98, p = .04, f2 = 0.06). Latent class models (LCMs) suggested a three-class model of longitudinal adherence patterns. This included low, declining adherence (Class 1 = 29%; higher proportion male, p = .02), high, sustained adherence (Class 2 = 26%, high family cohesion, p = .05, higher proportion female, p = .02), and low, sustained adherence (Class 3 = 45%; higher proportion Latino, p = .05, higher proportion male, p = .02).

Conclusions

Asthma medication adherence declined between 8th and 10th grade. LCMs indicated some youth have stable patterns of adherence (high or low), whereas others demonstrate declines. Gender differences were observed, and family cohesion was associated with higher, sustained adherence. Interventions building on family resources and targeting the barriers adolescents face are necessary to improve asthma management during this vulnerable period.
Refugees and Their Return Home: Unsettling Matters
Authors: Zetter Roger
Published: January 2021

‘Return in safety and dignity’ is promoted as the optimum durable solution to refugee displacement. This paper explores the concepts of home and territory as dominant variables in refugee return, with their implicit suggestion of people ‘belonging’ to a defined territory and ‘remixed’ in a restoration of the status quo ante.
Sex Differences in Body Composition and Fitness Scores in Military Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Cadets
Authors: Roberts Brandon M , Rushing Kelsey A , Plaisance Eric P
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The cadets in the U.S. Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) consist of students from varied backgrounds. As part of collegiate ROTC programs, cadets must pass fitness tests and adhere to body composition standards in addition to completing their education. The previous fitness test of record was the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), but it was recently changed to the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) to better test soldiers for combat capabilities. As part of the standardized scoring, the ACFT is no longer separated by sex or age as in the APFT, but rather by job duty. The purpose of this study was to characterize the modern ROTC cadet based on body composition measures and APFT and ACFT scores and then determine how those factors are related.

Materials and Methods

We calculated body mass index (BMI), fat mass, fat-free mass (FFM), fat-free mass index (FFMI), and fat mass index (FMI) (n = 68, 42 males, 26 females). We used Pearson correlations to compare the scores to body composition assessments and Student’s t-tests to determine if there were differences between sexes. We hypothesized that those with higher FFM and FFMI will have a higher passing rate on the ACFT and that males would perform better on the ACFT because of having more FFM.

Results

We found that cadets, regardless of sex, were borderline overweight using BMI standards and that BMI did not correlate with any fitness tests. When comparing sexes, both males and females had high passing rates on the APFT, but females struggled to pass the ACFT mostly because of the leg tuck. We also found that ACFT scores were strongly correlated with FFM and FFMI, yet no body composition measures were correlated with APFT scores.

Conclusions

It is clear from our data that structured training programs and nutrition guidance are needed with an emphasis on changing body composition to increase lean mass and strength to increase the performance of ROTC cadets on the ACFT.
Can the Local Bubble explain the radio background?
Authors: Krause Martin G H , Hardcastle Martin J
Published: January 2021

The ARCADE 2 balloon bolometer along with a number of other instruments have detected what appears to be a radio synchrotron background at frequencies below about 3 GHz. Neither extragalactic radio sources nor diffuse Galactic emission can currently account for this finding. We use the locally measured cosmic ray electron population, demodulated for effects of the Solar wind, and other observational constraints combined with a turbulent magnetic field model to predict the radio synchrotron emission for the Local Bubble. We find that the spectral index of the modelled radio emission is roughly consistent with the radio background. Our model can approximately reproduce the observed antenna temperatures for a mean magnetic field strength B between 3 and 5 nT. We argue that this would not violate observational constraints from pulsar measurements. However, the curvature in the predicted spectrum would mean that other, so far unknown sources would have to contribute below 100 MHz. Also, the magnetic energy density would then dominate over thermal and cosmic ray electron energy density, likely causing an inverse magnetic cascade with large variations of the radio emission in different sky directions as well as high polarization. We argue that this disagrees with several observations and thus that the magnetic field is probably much lower, quite possibly limited by equipartition with the energy density in relativistic or thermal particles (B = 0.2−0.6 nT). In the latter case, we predict a contribution of the Local Bubble to the unexplained radio background at most at the per cent level.
The Hunt for Ancient Prions: Archaeal Prion-Like Domains Form Amyloid-Based Epigenetic Elements
Authors: Zajkowski Tomasz , Lee Michael D , Mondal Shamba S , Carbajal Amanda , Dec Robert , Brennock Patrick D , Piast Radoslaw W , Snyder Jessica E , Bense Nicholas B , Dzwolak Wojciech , Jarosz Daniel F , Rothschild Lynn J
Published: January 2021

Prions, proteins that can convert between structurally and functionally distinct states and serve as non-Mendelian mechanisms of inheritance, were initially discovered and only known in eukaryotes, and consequently considered to likely be a relatively late evolutionary acquisition. However, the recent discovery of prions in bacteria and viruses has intimated a potentially more ancient evolutionary origin. Here, we provide evidence that prion-forming domains exist in the domain archaea, the last domain of life left unexplored with regard to prions. We searched for archaeal candidate prion-forming protein sequences computationally, described their taxonomic distribution and phylogeny, and analyzed their associated functional annotations. Using biophysical in vitro assays, cell-based and microscopic approaches, and dye-binding analyses, we tested select candidate prion-forming domains for prionogenic characteristics. Out of the 16 tested, eight formed amyloids, and six acted as protein-based elements of information transfer driving non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance. We also identified short peptides from our archaeal prion candidates that can form amyloid fibrils independently. Lastly, candidates that tested positively in our assays had significantly higher tyrosine and phenylalanine content than candidates that tested negatively, an observation that may help future archaeal prion predictions. Taken together, our discovery of functional prion-forming domains in archaea provides evidence that multiple archaeal proteins are capable of acting as prions—thus expanding our knowledge of this epigenetic phenomenon to the third and final domain of life and bolstering the possibility that they were present at the time of the last universal common ancestor.
Structure of a reaction intermediate mimic in t6A biosynthesis bound in the active site of the TsaBD heterodimer from Escherichia coli
Authors: Kopina Brett J , Missoury Sophia , Collinet Bruno , Fulton Mark G , Cirio Charles , van Tilbeurgh Herman , Lauhon Charles T
Published: January 2021

The tRNA modification N6-threonylcarbamoyladenosine (t6A) is universally conserved in all organisms. In bacteria, the biosynthesis of t6A requires four proteins (TsaBCDE) that catalyze the formation of t6A via the unstable intermediate l-threonylcarbamoyl-adenylate (TC-AMP). While the formation and stability of this intermediate has been studied in detail, the mechanism of its transfer to A37 in tRNA is poorly understood. To investigate this step, the structure of the TsaBD heterodimer from Escherichia coli has been solved bound to a stable phosphonate isosteric mimic of TC-AMP. The phosphonate inhibits t6A synthesis in vitro with an IC50 value of 1.3 μM in the presence of millimolar ATP and L-threonine. The inhibitor binds to TsaBD by coordination to the active site Zn atom via an oxygen atom from both the phosphonate and the carboxylate moieties. The bound conformation of the inhibitor suggests that the catalysis exploits a putative oxyanion hole created by a conserved active site loop of TsaD and that the metal essentially serves as a binding scaffold for the intermediate. The phosphonate bound crystal structure should be useful for the rational design of potent, drug-like small molecule inhibitors as mechanistic probes or potentially novel antibiotics.
NMR structural study on the self-trimerization of d(GTTAGG) into a dynamic trimolecular G-quadruplex assembly preferentially in Na+ solution with a moderate K+ tolerance
Authors: Jing Haitao , Fu Wenqiang , Hu Wenxuan , Xu Suping , Xu Xiaojuan , He Miao , Liu Yangzhong , Zhang Na
Published: January 2021

Vast G-quadruplexes (GQs) are primarily folded by one, two, or four G-rich oligomers, rarely with an exception. Here, we present the first NMR solution structure of a trimolecular GQ (tri-GQ) that is solely assembled by the self-trimerization of d(GTTAGG), preferentially in Na+ solution tolerant to an equal amount of K+ cation. Eight guanines from three asymmetrically folded strands of d(GTTAGG) are organized into a two-tetrad core, which features a broken G-column and two width-irregular grooves. Fast strand exchanges on a timescale of second at 17°C spontaneously occur between folded tri-GQ and unfolded single-strand of d(GTTAGG) that both species coexist in dynamic equilibrium. Thus, this tri-GQ is not just simply a static assembly but rather a dynamic assembly. Moreover, another minor tetra-GQ that has putatively tetrameric (2+2) antiparallel topology becomes noticeable only at an extremely high strand concentration above 18 mM. The major tri-GQ and minor tetra-GQ are considered to be mutually related, and their reversible interconversion pathways are proposed accordingly. The sequence d(GTTAGG) could be regarded as either a reading frame shifted single repeat of human telomeric DNA or a 1.5 repeat of Bombyx mori telomeric DNA. Overall, our findings provide new insight into GQs and expect more functional applications.
Paleolithic Hunter-Gatherers of Nubia
Authors: Masojć Mirosław
Published: January 2021

The chapter is devoted to the earliest human settlement in Nubia, which took place in the Pleistocene, with numerous references to neighboring areas, especially Upper Egypt. Paleolithic groups of humans probably appeared in Nubia in the Early Pleistocene, but well-documented sites—connected with Lower Paleolithic-Acheulean complex industries—are dated only to Middle Pleistocene (MIS 9-7). Some of the oldest Middle Stone Age (MSA) assemblages in Africa were discovered in Nubia (ca. 220 ka, MIS 7). Numerous MSA sites (ca. 220–40 ka, MIS 7-3) with predominating Levallois technology are situated within the Nile valley and the neighboring deserts, mainly in oases. The onset of Upper Paleolithic (ca. 40–20 ka, MIS 3-2) blade technology was recorded together with the oldest mining. Late Paleolithic groups of humans (20–11 ka, MIS 2), characterized by considerable diversity in the hyper-arid period, lived only in the Nile valley. Local examples of rock paintings come from that period. Pleistocene human remains from Nubia are extremely rare; they all represent H. sapiens. Cemeteries with numerous burials, some of which display evidence of violence, were also discovered in this area.
Indo-European Languages of the Caucasus
Authors: Belyaev Oleg
Published: January 2021

Indo-European languages have been spoken in the Caucasus over millenia, alongside languages of the three indigenous families of the region. This chapter provides a general overview of four languages whose core area is situated in the Caucasus (both the North Caucasus and Transcaucasia): Eastern Armenian (which together with Western Armenian forms a separate branch of Indo-European) and three Iranian languages: Ossetic, spoken in North Ossetia, part of Russia, and South Ossetia beyond the mountain range; Judeo-Tat, spoken by Mountain Jews in Dagestan and Azerbaijan; and Talyshi, spoken by the Talysh people mainly in the south of Azerbaijan, but also in neighboring regions of Iran. The chapter captures the current understanding of the core areas of phonology and grammar of these languages and provides information on features that could possibly have been induced by contact with the neighboring Caucasian languages.
What Is It Like to Be a Bot?
Authors: Wittkower D. E.
Published: January 2021

This chapter seeks to further develop, define, and differentiate human-technics alterity relations within postphenomenological philosophy of technology. A central case study of the Alexa digital assistant establishes that digital assistants require the adoption of the intentional stance, and illustrates that this structural requirement is different from anthropomorphic projection of mindedness onto technical objects. Human-technics alterity relations based on projection are then more generally differentiated from human-technics alterity relations based on actual encoded pseudo-mental contents, where there are matters of fact that directly correspond to user conceptualizations of “intentions” or “knowledge” in technical systems or objects. Finally, functions and user benefits to different alterity relations are explored, establishing that there is a meaningful set of cases where the projection of a mind in human-technics alterity relations positively impacts technical functions and user experiences.
Islamist Mobilization during the Arab Uprisings
Authors: Berman Chantal
Published: January 2021

Islamists were the Arab Spring’s largest immediate beneficiaries, yet Islamist parties in Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco played markedly different roles in the historic uprisings of 2011. Why was Islamist mobilization more visible in some cases than others? This chapter breaks down the question of Islamist mobilization on two levels, asking (1) to what extent Islamist parties served as “revolutionary organizations,” and (2) to what extent Islamist beliefs shaped individuals’ protest behavior. The chapter finds that Islamist parties responded strategically rather than ideologically to escalating protest movements in early 2011, reflecting each party’s experience of authoritarianism and its resulting expectations over the benefits of a democratic future. Islamist mobilization was highest where Islamists prior to 2011 occupied a “middle ground” between repressed outsider and regime insider. In Egypt, where the Muslim Brothers operated large networks of social service provision but were constrained from amassing electoral power, Brotherhood leaders organized their supporters to protest. In Morocco, where the PJD played the role of “loyal” parliamentary opposition, the party urged its followers not to protest. In Tunisia, where Harakat Ennahda was totally repressed, Islamist leaders were unable to play a large mobilizing role. Survey analyses show heterogeneous effects of Islamist beliefs on protest across countries, indicating that many Islamist individuals did follow their leaders’ edicts to either protest or abstain. Many others protested without formal Islamist leadership, galvanized by economic grievance. These results highlight the diversity of Islamist actors and the importance of studying Islamist politics on both organizational and individual levels.