bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordination of surface electromyography activity in the posterior tongue region during mastication of differently textured foods
Authors: Mori Keitaro , Manda Yousuke , Kitagawa Keisuke , Nagatsuka Hiroaki , Furutera Hiroshi , Kodama Naoki , Minagi Shogo
Published: December 2020

Background

Masticatory movement occurs complicatedly and bilaterally. Although the tongue plays an important role in mastication, bilateral tongue function during mastication has not been clarified yet.

Objective

To investigate the effect of food properties on posterior tongue activity and coordination of muscles bilaterally by electromyography (EMG).

Methods

Twenty healthy adults (10 males and 10 females; mean age 28 years; range: 22‐33 years) participated in this study. Three test foods, gummy jelly (hard food), sponge cake (soft food requiring crushing), and mashed potatoes (soft food not requiring crushing), were used. Bilateral masseter N‐EMG (surface electromyography for measuring the muscle activity of posterior tongue) and submental EMG were carried out while the participants chewed three test foods. The participants were instructed to masticate three test foods only on the right side and only on the left side unilaterally.

Results

In the case of gummy jelly, N‐EMG activity on the mastication side was significantly larger than that on the non‐mastication side (P < .01). Regarding temporal relationship between the masseter and N‐EMG activity, in the case of gummy jelly, the percentage of cases where the N‐EMG peak was observed during masseter muscle EMG bursts was significantly higher than those for sponge cake and mashed potatoes (P < .01).

Conclusion

N‐EMG activity on the mastication side was significantly larger than that on the non‐mastication side in the mastication of hard foods. Tongue showed activity pattern changes and coordinated with the masseter muscle depending on food texture.
Whole‐genome sequence data of Hypericum perforatum and functional characterization of melatonin biosynthesis by N‐acetylserotonin O‐methyltransferase
Authors: Zhou Wen , Wang Ying , Li Bin , Petijová Linda , Hu Suying , Zhang Qian , Niu Junfeng , Wang Donghao , Wang Shiqiang , Dong Yang , Čellárová Eva , Wang Zhezhi
Published: December 2020

Hypericum perforatum is among the most commonly used herbal remedies and supplements. The aerial plant parts are often used to treat depression. Due to the lack of genomic information of H. perforatum, the gene networks regulating secondary metabolite synthesis remain unclear. Here, we present a high‐quality genome for H. perforatum with a 2.3‐Mb scaffold N50. The draft assembly covers 91.9% of the predicted genome and represents the fourth sequenced genus in the order Malpighiales. Comparing this sequence with model or related species revealed that Populus trichocarpa and Hevea brasiliensis could be grouped into one branch, while H. perforatum and Linum usitatissimum are grouped in another branch. Combined with transcriptome data, 40 key genes related to melatonin, hyperforin, and hypericin synthesis were screened and analyzed. Five N‐acetylserotonin O‐methyltransferases (HpASMT1‐HpASMT5) were cloned and functionally characterized. Purified HpASMT3 protein converted N‐acetylserotonin into melatonin with a Vmax of about 1.35 pkat/mg protein. HpASMT1 and HpASMT3 overexpression in Arabidopsis mutants caused 1.5‐2‐fold higher melatonin content than in mutant and wild‐type plants. The endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) in transgenic plants was significantly lower than ROS in mutant and wild‐type plants, suggesting higher drought tolerance. The obtained genomic data offer new resources for further study on the evolution of Hypericaceae family, but also provide a basis for further study of melatonin biosynthetic pathways in other plants.
Structural Budget Balance as a Fiscal Rule in the European Union—Good, Bad, or Ugly?
Authors: Raudla Ringa , Douglas James W.
Published: December 2020

The EU's Fiscal Compact requires member states to legislate structural budget balance rule(s) (SBR). We use elite interviews and government documents from Austria, Ireland, and Portugal to assess the extent to which SBRs are perceived to have resulted in improved accountability, coordination, and credible commitment on the part of elected officials. We find that establishing the SBRs in legislation has not resulted in domestic ownership on the part of the member states. Furthermore, SBRs do not appear to have improved accountability due to questions about their accuracy. There is some evidence that SBRs aid finance ministries' coordination efforts.
Sex‐dependent expression of prostatic markers and hormone receptors in cystic tumor of the atrioventricular node: A histopathological study of three cases
Authors: Ichimata Shojiro , Hata Yukiko , Yajima Nobuhisa , Katayama Yosei , Nomoto Kazuhiro , Nishida Naoki
Published: December 2020

We pathologically investigated three autopsy cases of cystic tumor of the atrioventricular node (CTAVN) with sudden death. Case 1 was a 36‐year‐old woman without any clinical history. Case 2 was a 76‐year‐old man with an implanted pacemaker for complete atrioventricular block. Case 3 was a 45‐year‐old man with a history of first‐degree AV block and sinus bradycardia. Microscopically, all three cases showed the bilayered structure of tumor glands and corpora amylacea in the glandular lumens. Immunohistochemically, the inner cells of the tumor glands were positive for cytokeratin CAM5.2, CEA, EMA, olfactomedin‐4 and alpha‐methylacyl‐coenzyme A racemase; the outer cells were positive for p63 and cytokeratin high molecular weight. In Case 1, androgen receptor and estrogen receptor were negative; progesterone receptor was focally positive in both the inner and outer cells. In Case 2, androgen receptor showed intermediate positivity in the inner cells; estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor were positive in the outer cells. Positive expression of both prostate‐specific antigen and prostate‐specific acid phosphate were found in the inner cells of both male cases. Because CTAVN cells exhibit different degrees of the prostatic phenotype depending on the patient's sex, we believe that CTAVN may originate from urogenital sinus tissue in some cases.
Restoration perceptions and collaboration challenges under severe water scarcity: the Aculeo Lake process
Authors: Ocampo‐Melgar Anahí , Barria Pilar , Chadwick Cristian , Villoch Pablo
Published: December 2020

A governmental watershed collaborative process in Aculeo, a semi‐endorheic 149 km2 sub‐basin in Chile, debated options for the water scarcity problems they were facing, including their lake desiccation. However, instead of joining forces, discussions around the possibility of recovering the lake generated further conflicts, revealing that it was not a goal shared by all. In this article, we explore the different perceptions and reasons that influenced preferences on restoring or rehabilitating the Aculeo Lake. By collecting, coding, and comparing before and during collaborative process perceptions, we analyzed the perceptions of the proposed Aculeo Lake rehabilitation that are shared among both those who oppose and those who support it. Results indicate that the underlying disagreement was primarily due to differences in shore property rights and lake access, which was also linked to different opinions about land uses in the territory. This research displays how both values and understandings of problems, along with history of a site, can impact stakeholders' restoration preferences and turn into a collaboration challenge.
Immunoglobulin G complexes without sialic acids enhance osteoclastogenesis but do not affect arthritis‐mediated bone loss
Authors: Sehic Edina , Westerlund Anna , Lagerquist Marie K. , Lerner Ulf H. , Carlsten Hans , Henning Petra , Engdahl Cecilia
Published: December 2020

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is important in clearance and recognition of previously presented antigens and after activation, IgGs can interact with the Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs) on haematopoietic cells, including bone‐resorbing osteoclasts. The pathogenicity of IgG, that is the ability to elicit stimulatory effects via FcγRs, can be modulated by attachment of sugar moieties, including sialic acids. Human IgGs and autoantibodies are associated with bone loss in autoimmune disease. However, the impact of polyclonal murine IgG via FcγRs on bone loss is poorly understood. Here, we investigate if heat‐aggregated activated murine polyclonal IgG complexes have any direct effects on murine osteoclasts and if they modulate arthritis‐mediated bone loss. Using cell cultures of murine osteoclasts, we show that IgG complexes without sialic acids (de‐IgG complexes) enhance receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐Β ligand (RANKL)‐stimulated osteoclastogenesis, an effect associated with increased FcγRIII expression. Using an in vivo model of arthritis‐mediated bone loss, where IgG complexes were injected into arthritic knees, no effect on the severity of arthritis or the degree of arthritis‐mediated bone loss was detected. Interestingly, injection of de‐IgG complexes into non‐arthritic knees increased osteoclast formation and enhanced bone erosions. Our findings show that activated de‐IgG complexes have no additive effect on arthritis‐mediated bone loss. However, de‐IgG complexes potentiate murine osteoclastogenesis and enhance local bone erosion in non‐arthritic bones, further confirming the link between the adaptive immune system and bone.
Large‐sample approximations and change testing for high‐dimensional covariance matrices of multivariate linear time series and factor models
Authors: Bours Monika , Steland Ansgar
Published: December 2020

Various statistical problems can be formulated in terms of a bilinear form of the covariance matrix. Examples are testing whether coordinates of a high‐dimensional random vector are uncorrelated, constructing confidence intervals for the risk of optimal portfolios or testing for the stability of a covariance matrix, especially for factor models. Extending previous works to a general high‐dimensional multivariate linear process framework and factor models, we establish distributional approximations for the associated bilinear form of the sample covariance matrix. These approximations hold for increasing dimension without any constraint relative to the sample size. The results are used to construct change‐point tests for the covariance structure, especially in order to check the stability of a high‐dimensional factor model. Tests based on the cumulated sum (CUSUM), self‐standardized CUSUM and the CUSUM statistic maximized over all subsamples are considered. Size and power of the proposed testing methodology are investigated by a simulation study and illustrated by analyzing the Fama and French factors for a change due to the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.
Approximate Bayesian inference for a spatial point process model exhibiting regularity and random aggregation
Authors: Vihrs Ninna , Møller Jesper , Gelfand Alan E.
Published: December 2020

In this article, we propose a doubly stochastic spatial point process model with both aggregation and repulsion. This model combines the ideas behind Strauss processes and log Gaussian Cox processes. The likelihood for this model is not expressible in closed form but it is easy to simulate realizations under the model. We therefore explain how to use approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) to carry out statistical inference for this model. We suggest a method for model validation based on posterior predictions and global envelopes. We illustrate the ABC procedure and model validation approach using both simulated point patterns and a real data example.
Assessing the use of a smartphone app to teach eye screening to opticians
Authors: Chee WK , Yip CC , Yang L , Soo YK , Wang J , Chang BCM
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Torch‐light Eye Screening Test (TEST) is a simple eye screening technique designed for use by opticians to look for common anterior segment eye conditions. The TEACHES‐Learning Electronic Module (TEACHES‐LEM) is an e‐learning platform that was developed to teach opticians to perform TEST. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of TEACHES‐LEM with face‐to‐face training (F2FT) in the training and assessment of knowledge among opticians.

Methods

Participants were randomly assigned in this experimental study to receive either the intervention group ((TEACHES‐LEM, n = 60) or the control group (F2FT, n = 57). The conceptual knowledge of TEST was assessed with a 20‐item clinical scenario‐based multiple choice question (MCQ) test before and after teaching (immediately post‐teaching and 1‐month post‐teaching). The MCQ test was developed by three ophthalmologists to give face validity.

Results

The pre‐teaching test scores (TS), indicating prior knowledge, were comparable in both groups (10.02 ± 2.79 versus 10.40 ± 4.17, p = 0.563, independent t test). The mean immediate post teaching score for TEACHES‐LEM was 13.3 ± 4.01 versus 12.3 ± 3.29 in the F2FT group (p = 0.170, independent t test). The mean post 1‐month teaching score for TEACHES‐LEM and F2FT groups were also comparable, 14.5 ± 4.19 versus 13.4 ± 3.90 respectively (p = 0.295, independent t test), indicating non‐inferiority of TEACHES to F2FT.

Conclusion

The TEACHES‐LEM e‐learning tool is as effective as F2FT in teaching opticians to perform TEST. It is an alternative to face‐to‐face teaching in delivering knowledge and assessment. The obviation for physical contact will make it a useful teaching tool during the COVID‐19 pandemic period.
Regional impact of Early Cretaceous tectono‐magmatic uplift in the Arctic: Implications of new data from eastern North Greenland
Authors: Ineson Jon R. , Hovikoski Jussi , Sheldon Emma , Piasecki Stefan , Alsen Peter , Fyhn Michael B. W. , Bjerager Morten , Dybkjær Karen , Guarnieri Pierpaolo , Lauridsen Bodil W. , Nøhr‐Hansen Henrik , Pedersen Gunver K. , Svennevig Kristian , Therkelsen Jens , Weibel Rikke , Bojesen‐Koefoed Jørgen A.
Published: December 2020

Evaluation of the regional geotectonic impact of the High Arctic Large Igneous Province (HALIP) in the present‐day northern Atlantic region has been hindered by poor correlation between the Svalbard–Barents Shelf region and eastern North Greenland. New sedimentological and biostratigraphic data from Peary Land and Kronprins Christian Land (Kilen), North Greenland reveal that the Lower Cretaceous palaeogeographic and sequence stratigraphic development of this area is closely comparable to that of Svalbard. The succession records Hauterivian – early Barremian regional uplift and emergence followed by fluvial sedimentation and subsequent transgression in the late Barremian – early Aptian. Recognition of this tectonically forced regression in North Greenland provides a link to a coeval well‐known tectonostratigraphic event in the Svalbard region, and hence to regional tectono‐magmatic uplift heralding the HALIP and the initiation of the Amerasia Basin.
Computational prediction method to decipher receptor–glycoligand interactions in plant immunity
Authors: del Hierro Irene , Mélida Hugo , Broyart Caroline , Santiago Julia , Molina Antonio
Published: December 2020

Microbial and plant cell walls have been selected by the plant immune system as a source of microbe‐ and plant damage‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs/DAMPs) that are perceived by extracellular ectodomains (ECDs) of plant pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) triggering immune responses. From the vast number of ligands that PRRs can bind, those composed of carbohydrate moieties are poorly studied, and only a handful of PRR/glycan pairs have been determined. Here we present a computational screening method, based on the first step of molecular dynamics simulation, that is able to predict putative ECD‐PRR/glycan interactions. This method has been developed and optimized with Arabidopsis LysM‐PRR members CERK1 and LYK4, which are involved in the perception of fungal MAMPs, chitohexaose (1,4‐β‐d‐(GlcNAc)6) and laminarihexaose (1,3‐β‐d‐(Glc)6). Our in silico results predicted CERK1 interactions with 1,4‐β‐d‐(GlcNAc)6 whilst discarding its direct binding by LYK4. In contrast, no direct interaction between CERK1/laminarihexaose was predicted by the model despite CERK1 being required for laminarihexaose immune activation, suggesting that CERK1 may act as a co‐receptor for its recognition. These in silico results were validated by isothermal titration calorimetry binding assays between these MAMPs and recombinant ECDs‐LysM‐PRRs. The robustness of the developed computational screening method was further validated by predicting that CERK1 does not bind the DAMP 1,4‐β‐d‐(Glc)6 (cellohexaose), and then probing that immune responses triggered by this DAMP were not impaired in the Arabidopsis cerk1 mutant. The computational predictive glycan/PRR binding method developed here might accelerate the discovery of protein–glycan interactions and provide information on immune responses activated by glycoligands.
Recruiting ethnic minorities of African descent as blood donors through a systematic intervention development
Authors: Klinkenberg Elisabeth F. , Huis in ’t Veld Elisabeth M.J. , de Kort Wim L.A.M. , van Weert Julia C.M. , Fransen Mirjam P.
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives

Blood donors of African descent are essential for the availability of specific antigen‐negative blood, yet past recruitment strategies yielded limited successes. The aim was to systematically develop an intervention to recruit African blood donors in the Netherlands, following the Intervention Mapping (IM) protocol.

Materials and methods

Based on the previous needs‐assessment (Step 1), change objectives (Step 2) and practical strategies (Step 3) were developed, and further determined through eight interviews and two focus groups with blood bank staff and experts. The strategies were then translated into a magazine article pilot‐experiment (n = 16) as part of the programme production (Step 4). The magazine appraisal and intention‐change were studied of the target group and compared with a previously published magazine article and a control group in an online survey.

Results

Important factors in the needs‐assessment related to donation awareness and knowledge and were also rated by staff and experts as most relevant and feasible determinants. The finalized objectives and strategies consisted of awareness raising and understanding how and where to donate blood. In the magazine pilot, the look and feel of the previously published article was higher valued, but the newly developed article’s content was higher rated. Reading the magazine articles increased donation intention as compared to the pre‐test and reference, but the increase did not differ between the articles.

Conclusion

IM helped to define intervention objectives and strategies and gave valuable insights in how to implement (step 5) and evaluate (step 6) a donor recruitment intervention.
Non-Implementation Despite Legislation: Lipsky’s Theory of Street-Level Bureaucracy and Certain Procedural Criminal Provisions of the Bengal Excise Act, 1909 and the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
Authors: Biswas Subrata
Published: December 2020

Public policies are reflected in the public domain more by how laws are implemented on the ground than by what their legislative content is. The departures from legislative intent are often scripted by the non-legislative actors at the cutting edge level in public organizations and people outside of the reference frame are often at their wits’ end as to why such departures take place at all. This essay takes up two Indian laws—one provincial and the other federal—and relying upon Michael Lipsky’s theory of street level bureaucracy, seeks to explore why two critical provisions thereof remained mostly unimplemented right since their legislation. Why do the street level bureaucrats mostly intend to depart from the avowed intent? Do they really stand to gain in such a scenario of non-implementation? If so, how? These questions are discussed in an expanded way in regard to the Bengal Excise Act, 1909 and the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
Quantifying Uncertainty in Warhead Design: How Machining Uncertainty Affects Weight and Center of Mass
Authors: White R. D. , Fajardo Danny , Doolittle Craig
Published: December 2020

In this work, we explore how uncertainty in component dimensions affects final product tolerances for warheads. We focus on quantifying uncertainties arising from the machining process and examine how they influence the final weight and center of mass (COM). We begin by deriving analytical forms for the quantities of interest (QoI) based on the fundamentals of three-dimensional integration. The input parameter space is then characterized by assumed statistical distributions, determined by knowledge of the machining process. From here, a Monte Carlo (MC) approach is implemented using matlab's ndgrid to determine resulting distributions on the QoI. In doing so, we show the likelihood of meeting final product requirements, based on our knowledge of uncertainties in the warhead components. This technique is presented in a general form to provide a tool for quantifying uncertainty for warheads of varying geometries.
Optimization of a continuous hot embossing process for fabrication of micropyramid structures in thermoplastic sheets
Authors: Haponow Luke , Kettle Jeff , Allsop John
Published: December 2020

Reported is the manufacture and optimization of inverted micropyramid cavity structures into thermoplastic sheets using roll-to-roll (R2R) embossing. To manufacture the master, an ultraprecision diamond machining method was applied to create seamless surface structures into a copper-coated hot embossing roller. Using the hot embossing process, the roller features were successfully transferred to 2 mm thick polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) sheets. Optimization of the R2R control process variables was conducted using Taguchi's numerical methods, which showed the importance of the roller temperature for a successful pattern transfer. The work presents a novel fabrication technique that allows microstructures to be manufactured into thick PMMA sheets in a continuous process.
Deconvolved frequency-difference beamforming for a linear array
Authors: Xie Lei , Sun Chao , Tian Jiwei
Published: December 2020

Frequency-difference beamforming (FDB) provides a robust estimation of wave propagation direction by shifting signal processing to a lower frequency which, however, produces a decline in the spatial resolution. In this letter, the beam pattern of FDB for a distant point source is proved to be shift invariant and therefore can be regarded as the point spread function corresponding to FDB's beam output. Then, deconvolved frequency-difference beamforming (Dv-FDB) is proposed to improve array performance. Dv-FDB yields a narrower beam and lower sidelobe levels while maintaining robustness. The superior performance of Dv-FDB is verified by simulations and experimental data.
Inside the Belly of a Beast: Individualizing Nutrition for Young, Professional Male Rugby League Players: A Review
Authors: Kelly Vincent G. , Oliver Liam S. , Bowtell Joanna , Jenkins David G.
Published: December 2020

Professional rugby league (RL) football is a contact sport involving repeated collisions and high-intensity efforts; both training and competition involve high energy expenditure. The present review summarizes and critiques the available literature relating the physiological demands of RL to nutritional requirements and considers potential ergogenic supplements that could improve players’ physical capacity, health, and recovery during the preparatory and competition phases of a season. Although there may not be enough data to provide RL-specific recommendations, the available data suggest that players may require approximately 6–8 g·kg−1·day−1 carbohydrate, 1.6–2.6 g·kg−1·day−1 protein, and 0.7–2.2 g·kg−1·day−1 fat, provided that the latter also falls within 20–35% of total energy intake. Competition nutrition should maximize glycogen availability by consuming 1–4 g/kg carbohydrate (∼80–320 g) plus 0.25 g/kg (∼20–30 g) protein, 1–4 hr preexercise for 80–120 kg players. Carbohydrate intakes of approximately 80–180 g (1.0–1.5 g/kg) plus 20–67 g protein (0.25–0.55 g/kg) 0–2 hr postexercise will optimize glycogen resynthesis and muscle protein synthesis. Supplements that potentially improve performance, recovery, and adaptation include low to moderate dosages of caffeine (3–6 mg/kg) and ∼300 mg polyphenols consumed ∼1 hr preexercise, creatine monohydrate “loading” (0.3 g·kg−1·day−1) and/or maintenance (3–5 g/day), and beta-alanine (65–80 mg·kg−1·day−1). Future research should quantify energy expenditures in young, professional male RL players before constructing recommendations.
Minocycline Alone and in Combination with Polymyxin B, Meropenem, and Sulbactam against Carbapenem-Susceptible and -Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in an
In Vitro
Pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Beganovic Maya , Daffinee Kathryn E. , Luther Megan K. , LaPlante Kerry L.
Published: December 2020

Acinetobacter baumannii
is recognized as an urgent public health threat by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Current treatment options are scarce, particularly against carbapenem-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
(CRAB).
Selection of Resistant Bacteria in Mallards Exposed to Subinhibitory Concentrations of Ciprofloxacin in Their Water Environment
Authors: Atterby Clara , Nykvist Marie , Lustig Ulrika , Andersson Dan I. , Järhult Josef D. , Sandegren Linus
Published: December 2020

Emergence and selection of antibiotic resistance following exposure to high antibiotic concentrations have been repeatedly shown in clinical and agricultural settings, whereas the role of the weak selective pressures exerted by antibiotic levels below the MIC (sub-MIC) in aquatic environments due to anthropogenic contamination remains unclear. Here, we studied how exposure to sub-MIC levels of ciprofloxacin enriches for
Escherichia coli
with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin using a mallard colonization model.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Tenofovir in Pregnant and Postpartum Women Using Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate
Authors: Eke Ahizechukwu C. , Shoji Kensuke , Best Brookie M. , Momper Jeremiah D. , Stek Alice M. , Cressey Tim R. , Mirochnick Mark , Capparelli Edmund V.
Published: December 2020

Pharmacokinetics of drugs can be affected by physiologic changes during pregnancy. Our aim was to assess the influence of covariates on tenofovir (TFV) pharmacokinetics in pregnant and postpartum women receiving tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).
Rifabutin Is Inactivated by Mycobacterium abscessus Arr
Authors: Schäfle Daniel , Selchow Petra , Borer Barbara , Meuli Michael , Rominski Anna , Schulthess Bettina , Sander Peter
Published: December 2020

Mycobacterium abscessus
exhibits
arr
(ADP-ribosyltransferase)-dependent rifampin resistance. In apparent contrast, rifabutin (RBT) has demonstrated promising activity in
M. abscessus
infection models, implying that RBT might not be inactivated by Arr.
Pseudomonas aeruginosaSusceptibility Patterns and Associated Clinical Outcomes in People with Cystic Fibrosis following Approval of Aztreonam Lysine for Inhalation
Authors: Keating Claire L. , Zuckerman Jonathan B. , Singh Pradeep K. , McKevitt Matthew , Gurtovaya Oksana , Bresnik Mark , Marshall Bruce C. , Saiman Lisa
Published: December 2020

The approval of aztreonam lysine for inhalation solution (AZLI) raised concerns that additional antibiotic exposure would potentially affect the susceptibility profiles ofPseudomonas aeruginosaisolates from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. This 5-year, prospective, observational study tracked susceptibility changes and clinical outcomes in CF patients in the United States with chronicP. aeruginosainfection.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis and Dose Regimen Optimization in Japanese Infants with an Extremely Low Birth Weight
Authors: Sasano Hiroshi , Aoki Kanon , Arakawa Ryutarou , Hanada Kazuhiko
Published: December 2020

Vancomycin is a synthetic antibiotic effective against Gram-positive pathogens. Although the clinical applicability of vancomycin for infants has been increasing, the pharmacokinetic data for vancomycin in extremely low-birth-weight infants are limited.
Classical Swine Fever Virus NproAntagonizes IRF3 To Prevent Interferon-Independent TLR3- and RIG-I-Mediated Apoptosis
Authors: Hardy Samuel , Jackson Ben , Goodbourn Stephen , Seago Julian
Published: December 2020

Responsible for severe hemorrhagic disease in domestic pigs and wild boar, classical swine fever is recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and European Union as a notifiable disease of economic importance. Persistent infection, immunotolerance, and early dissemination of the virus at local sites of infection have been linked to the antagonism of type I IFN induction by Npro.
RANKING OF CMIP5-BASED GENERAL CIRCULATION MODELS USING COMPROMISE PROGRAMMING AND TOPSIS FOR PRECIPITATION: A CASE STUDY OF UPPER GODAVARI BASIN, INDIA
Authors: DEEPTHI B. , SUNIL AKSHAY , NAIR SARANYA C. , MIRAJKAR A. B. , ADARSH S.
Published: December 2020

This study determines the suitable general circulation models (GCMs) for the prediction of future precipitation of Upper Godavari sub-basin, India. Five performance indicators (PIs) namely correlation coefficient (CC), normalized root mean square deviation (NRMSD), absolute normalized mean biased deviation (ANMBD), skill score (SS), Nash Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and three different combinations (Case 1: all performance indicators, Case 2: CC, SS and ANMBD, and Case 3: CC, SS, and NRMSD) were considered to evaluate the performance of 38 GCM models for the study area. The observed precipitation data for 12 grid points covering the Upper Godavari sub-basin along with eight districts of Maharashtra were used for the selection of the suitable GCMs. The weights of the indicators were determined by the entropy method. Compromise programming (CP) and the technique for order preference to the similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) methods were used for ranking the GCMs. The group decision-making approach was employed to make a collective decision about the rank of 38 GCMS considering all the grid points. In view of all the three combinations of PIs, the study suggests that the effect of the performance indicator NSE on the ranking of GCM models is the most significant (weights for the grid points varying in the range 22.75%–78%) followed by ANMBD, CC, NRMSD, and SS. Including the maximum number of PIs and considering their combinations is found to be much helpful to enhance the credibility of the ranking of GCMs. From the group decision-making approach, it was observed that the ensemble of MPI-ESM-P, CNRM-CM5-2, and CNRM-CM5 is suitable for the prediction of precipitation for the study area.
Toward Realizing the Promise of Educational Neuroscience: Improving Experimental Design in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Studies
Authors: Goswami Usha
Published: December 2020

This review presents a critical appraisal of high-quality studies in the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience, focusing on design issues that are critical for establishing effective educational neuroscience. I argue that cognitive neuroscience studies of cognitive development need to respect important experimental constraints. The use of longitudinal and intervention designs is key. The field needs to move beyond simply studying patterns of brain activation to studying brain mechanisms of information encoding and information processing. Indeed, studies at multiple levels of description are required, combining the assessment of individual differences in neural learning, sensory processing, cognitive processing, and children's behavior. Current evidence suggests that the child brain has essentially the same structures as the adult brain, carrying out essentially the same functions via the same mechanisms. This review demonstrates that neural systems that learn the patterns or regularities in environmental input (via statistical learning) can, in principle, acquire complex cognitive structures like language and conceptual knowledge.
Green Infrastructure and Health
Authors: Nieuwenhuijsen Mark J.
Published: December 2020

The health benefits of green space are well known, but the health effects of green infrastructure less so. Green infrastructure goes well beyond the presence of green space and refers more to a strategically planned network of natural and seminatural areas, with other environmental features designed and managed to deliver a wide range of ecosystem services and possibly to improve human health. In this narrative review, we found that small green infrastructure, such as green roofs and walls, has the potential to mitigate urban flooding, attenuate indoor temperatures and heat islands, improve air quality, and muffle noise, among other benefits, but these effects have not been linked directly to health. Larger green infrastructure has been associated with reduced temperatures, air pollution, and crimes and violence, but less so with health, although some evidence suggests that it may be beneficial for health (e.g., good health, decreased mortality). Finally, parks and street trees show many health benefits, but it is not clear if they can always be considered green infrastructure.
Monododecyl Phosphate Film on LY12 Aluminum Alloy: pH-Controlled Self-Assembly and Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Pan Chengcheng , Wang Xianzong , Behnamian Yashar , Wu Zhong , Qin Zhenbo , Xia Da-Hai , Hu Wenbin
Published: December 2020

An LY12 aluminum alloy was coated with a self-assembled dodecyl phosphate film by employing a novel surface-modification protocol based on the chemisorption of sodium monododecyl phosphate from aqueous solution. The effect of solution pH on the self-assembled film properties was documented, and the corrosion resistances of the self-assembled film in a Cl−-containing solution and in a marine atmosphere were evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and corrosion morphology analysis. Unlike self-assembled film formed in acidic and alkaline conditions, dodecyl phosphate films formed in neutral solution exhibited a multilayer structure with greater thickness and superior corrosion resistance due to the strong chemisorption and electrostatic attraction that are fostered in neutral solutions.
Direct Demonstration of Unified Brønsted−Evans−Polanyi Relationships for Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer Reactions on Transition Metal Surfaces
Authors: Chun Hee-Joon , Zeng Zhenhua , Greeley Jeffrey
Published: December 2020

Brønsted-Evans-Polanyi (BEP) relationships, which relate elementary reaction barriers to reaction thermodynamics, have long been discussed in electrochemical science, but demonstration of their existence in heterogeneous electrocatalysis, across many different catalyst surfaces and voltages, is lacking. In this contribution, the BEP model is demonstrated to describe both multiple catalyst surfaces and variable voltages in electrochemical environments. For proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) to surface nitrogen (N*) and nitric oxide (NO*), reaction energies and activation barriers are calculated using Density Functional Theory (DFT) on a parallel plate capacitor model at three different potentials and for nine different transition metal surfaces. Linear BEP relations that describe all potentials and catalyst surfaces are obtained for these elementary reactions, and the slopes of the correlations are shown to be directly related to the fractional coordinate of the transition states (FCTS) of the reactions. The results, which are explained in terms of Marcus Theory, prove a direct equivalence between unified BEP coefficients, describing both variable catalyst surfaces and voltages, and electrochemical symmetry factors and provide a straightforward means of estimating this quantify for PCET reactions on transition metal surfaces. The resulting relationships, in turn, could lead to predictions of electrocatalytic reactivity trends of enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Segment Stress Characteristics and Ground Deformation Caused by Constructing Closely Spaced Parallel Tunnels under a Complex Geological Condition
Authors: Lv Jianbing , Li Zikun , Xie Xiaodong , Fu Bing , Fu Helin , Zhao Hui , Li Xulong , Li Zhanrong , Tang Yong
Published: December 2020

Ground deformation and additional stress on the segments of the firstly constructed tunnel may change significantly due to the construction of another tunnel, which is closely spaced with the existing one. A poor geotechnical condition possibly leads to the interaction between such closely spaced tunnels even making it harder to build such tunnels. A practical project located in Guangzhou City, China, consists of such two parallel tunnels with the smallest distance of 2.6 m, which sat on an upper‐soft and lower‐hard stratum. A 3D finite element model has been proposed to numerically investigate the behavior of these two parallel tunnels. The numerical results predicted by the FE model are in close agreement with that obtained from the field monitoring system, indicating the accuracy of the proposed FE model. The FE model was then used to further analyze the effect of reinforcing piles in eliminating the detrimental effect on both ground deformation and additional stress of the segments of the existing tunnel as a result of the construction of the new parallel tunnel. The research results obtained from the present paper can provide technical support and guidance for urban subway construction.
Kinematic MRI Analysis of Reducible Atlantoaxial Dislocation for Decompression
Authors: Dong Liang , Ge Chaoyuan , Xu Zhengwei , Wang Dongqi , Sun Honghui , Hao Dingjun
Published: December 2020

Background. Many doctors ignored the possibility that there is still a spinal cord compression (SCC) need for decompression after atlantoaxial reduction. Reduction can be achieved on kinematic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); thus, we want to analyze the role of kinematic MRI in reducible atlantoaxial dislocation and make a preoperative decision whether to perform decompression. Methods. 36 patients with atlantoaxial reduction on preoperative kinematic MRI in extension postures were enrolled retrospectively. Grouping was based on the condition of SCC after atlantoaxial reduction preoperatively. Group A: patients with SCC after atlantoaxial reduction on dynamic cervical MRI were treated with C1 laminectomy for decompression and atlantoaxial fixation. Group B: patients with no significant SCC, according to dynamic MRI, underwent only atlantoaxial fixation. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using JOA score for spinal cord function. Radiological outcomes were assessed by measuring spinal cord diameter on MRI. Results. The mean follow‐up time was 17.1 months. Postoperative JOA score and percentage of SCC in both groups were significantly better than its preoperative score. There were no significant statistical differences in the JOA score at 12 months after surgery and the JOA improvement rate between two groups. All patients in the two groups had a lower percentage of SCC on preoperative extension MRI, compared with neutral MRI. No significant statistical differences in the spinal decompression improvement rate were observed between the two groups. Conclusions. Decompression should be performed in patients who still have significant SCC on preoperative kinematic MRI. Kinematic MRI could be used to assess SCC and decide whether to perform decompression preoperatively.
VISSIM-Based Simulation and Analysis of Upstream Segments in Ramp Areas for Optimizing Vehicle Group Lane-Changing Behaviors
Authors: Li Haijian , Huang Zhufei , Zou Xiaofang , Zheng Shuo , Yang Yanfang
Published: December 2020

The traffic congestion in ramp areas is becoming increasingly prominent. In the upstream segments of ramp areas, effective management and control of lane-changing behaviors can improve the road capacity and make full use of the existing road resource. With the continuous development and application of connected vehicle technologies, lane-changing behaviors can be performed by vehicle groups. Under a connected vehicle environment, the lane-changing behaviors by vehicle groups are controlled in the upstream segment in a ramp area, and the lane-changing behaviors can be completed prior to entering the ramp area. Finally, lane-changing strategies are optimized and identified. VISSIM simulates these proposed strategies. This paper considers the delay as the output index for analyzing and comparing various strategies. The results demonstrate that the delays of different lane-changing strategies are also different. If the delays of ramp areas are to be substantially reduced, it is necessary to continuously optimize the lane-changing strategies by vehicle groups in the upstream segments. This optimization of lane-changing strategies will effectively regulate drivers’ lane-changing behaviors, improve road safety, and increase traffic capacity.
Laboratory and Field Experimental Study on the Vacuum Preloading Method with Pumping and Discharging
Authors: Zhang Fuhai , Chen Yu , Liu Zhengrong , Chen Lei , Bai Yanhui , Chen Liang
Published: December 2020

Negative vacuum pressure hardly reaches deep soils due to the drain board bending and serious blockage with the existing vacuum preloading methods (VPMs), thus resulting in poor reinforcement relative to practical engineering applications. To address this issue, this paper proposes a vacuum preloading method with pumping and discharging (a new dredger filling foundation processing technique based on vacuum preloading). This new VPM is developed through technological improvement and plastic drain board innovations in traditional VPMs. The new VPM uses a plastic vertical drainage board with double drainage channels, and the core board is in a “tic‐tac‐toe” shape with a hollow centre and square pipeline channels. It can execute air and water drainage. Vacuum transfer holes were set at two grooves, every 2‐3 m from the central pipeline of the core board. Grooves at two sides of the core board and filter membrane were rolled together to improve drainage. In addition, the vacuum pipe, tube connector, and core board centre of the vertical plastic drainage board were connected directly and securely. A stereoscopic vacuum transmission system composed of a horizontal and vertical drainage system was built. In this vacuum transmission system, the transfer route was shortened, and the loss of vacuum along the route was decreased. The negative vacuum pressure was transferred to different soil depths through the central pipeline of the core board to accelerate the dissipation of pore pressure in soil mass and prevent vacuum pressure loss caused by drainage board bending, thus improving the reinforcement effect. Dredger filling silt foundation reinforcement by VPM and VPM with pumping and drainage were compared in laboratory simulations and field tests with different drainage boards. Test results show that the loss of vacuum pressure along the drainage path was relatively smaller in the new physical vapor deposition (PVD), and the pressure transfer efficiency was increased. Deep soil mass was reinforced effectively by using the new PVD. After reinforcement, the physical and mechanical properties of soil layers were improved. Moreover, soil strengths were remarkably improved, with sharp reductions in natural moisture content and porosity. Then, the transfer law of vacuum on different drainage boards and the reinforcement mechanism of VPM with pumping and drainage were analysed. Research conclusions show the superiority of VPM with pumping and drainage in terms of effectiveness and soft foundation reinforcement. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application and development of the new VPM.
PPARα Agonist WY-14643 Relieves Neuropathic Pain through SIRT1-Mediated Deacetylation of NF-κB
Authors: Wen Wanshun , Wang Jinlin , Zhang Biyu , Wang Jun
Published: December 2020

Inflammation caused by neuropathy contributes to the development of neuropathic pain (NP), but the exact mechanism still needs to be understood. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), an important inflammation regulator, might participate in the inflammation in NP. To explore the role of PPARα in NP, the effects of PPARα agonist WY-14643 on chronic constriction injury (CCI) rats were evaluated. The results showed that WY-14643 stimulation could decrease inflammation and relieve neuropathic pain, which was relative with the activation of PPARα. In addition, we also found that the SIRT1/NF-κB pathway was involved in the WY-14643-induced anti-inflammation in NP, and activation of PPARα increased SIRT1 expression, thus reducing the proinflammatory function of NF-κB. These data suggested that WY-14643 might serve as an inflammation mediator, which may be a potential therapy option for NP.
The Influence of Diabetes Mellitus on Patients Undergoing Primary Total Lower Extremity Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Qin Wanjin , Huang Xiaoxiong , Yang Huilin , Shen Minjie
Published: December 2020

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common disease that has an adverse impact on most orthopedic surgeries, and its prevalence has gradually increased in recent years. We aim to investigate the influence of DM on comorbidities and complications of patients undergoing primary total lower extremity arthroplasty. Methods. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Web of Science were systematically searched for relevant studies published before December 2019. Demographic data, comorbidities, and postoperative complications after primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) or primary total knee arthroplasties (TKA) were assessed between DM and non‐DM patients. Meta‐analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.3, and forest plots were drawn for each variable. Results. A total of 1,560,461 patients (215,916 patients with DM and 1,344,545 patients without DM) from 23 studies were included in this meta‐analysis. The incidences of several preoperative comorbidities (hypertension (HTN), kidney disease, cardiac and cerebrovascular disease) were generally higher in patients with DM. Moreover, DM patients had a higher rate of postoperative complications (superficial and deep infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and in‐hospital mortality) compared to non‐DM patients. Conclusions. DM patients were more likely to suffer from comorbidities and had a higher risk of complications in total lower extremity arthroplasty compared to non‐DM patients. It is necessary to identify DM and control hyperglycemia in the perioperative period to prevent postoperative complications in patients with DM.
Memetic Salp Swarm Algorithm-Based Frequency Regulation for Power System with Renewable Energy Integration
Authors: Zeng Fang , Shu Hongchun
Published: December 2020

As the penetration of renewable energy to power grid increases gradually, to ensure the safety and stable operation of power system, it is necessary for renewable energy to participate in the secondary frequency regulation of power system. Therefore, this paper proposes an optimal control model of renewable energy participating in the secondary frequency regulation to solve the dynamic power distribution problem. Besides, memetic salp swarm algorithm (MSSA) is used to solve this complex nonlinear optimization problem, so as to quickly obtain high-quality power distribution schemes under different power perturbations and maximize the dynamic response regulation performance of the entire regional power grid. Finally, based on the improved IEEE standard two-area model, the established model is verified and the performance of the applied algorithm is tested by comparing the traditional engineering allocation method and other intelligent optimization algorithms.