bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting of Perforin Inhibitor into the Brain Parenchyma Via a Prodrug Approach Can Decrease Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation and Improve Cell Survival
Authors: Tampio Janne , Huttunen Johanna , Montaser Ahmed , Huttunen Kristiina M.
Published: August 2020

The cytolytic protein perforin has a crucial role in infections and tumor surveillance. Recently, it has also been associated with many brain diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases and stroke. Therefore, inhibitors of perforin have attracted interest as novel drug candidates. We have previously reported that converting a perforin inhibitor into an L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing prodrug can improve the compound’s brain drug delivery not only across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) but also into the brain parenchymal cells: neurons, astrocytes, and microglia. The present study evaluated whether the increased uptake into mouse primary cortical astrocytes and subsequently improvements in the cellular bioavailability of this brain-targeted perforin inhibitor prodrug could enhance its pharmacological effects, such as inhibition of production of caspase-3/-7, lipid peroxidation products and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation mouse model. It was demonstrated that increased brain and cellular drug delivery could improve the ability of perforin inhibitors to elicit their pharmacological effects in the brain at nano- to picomolar levels. Furthermore, the prodrug displayed multifunctional properties since it also inhibited the activity of several key enzymes related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), such as the β-site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and most probably also cyclooxygenases (COX) at micromolar concentrations. Therefore, this prodrug is a potential drug candidate for preventing Aβ-accumulation and ACh-depletion in addition to combatting neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neural apoptosis within the brain.
Development of international mirroring system for real-time web of meteorological satellite data
Authors: Pavarangkoon Praphan , Murata Ken T. , Yamamoto Kazunori , Muranaga Kazuya , Higuchi Atsushi , Mizuhara Takamichi , Kagebayashi Yuya , Charnsripinyo Chalermpol , Nupairoj Natawut , Ikeda Takatoshi , Tanaka Jin , Fukazawa Keiichiro
Published: August 2020

The third-generation meteorological satellites equipped with highly-improved imagers provide a huge amount of Earth observation data. Himawari-8 is the first unit of the Japan Meteorological Agency’s third generation of geostationary satellites. After its starting operation in 2015, there are several websites that provide remotely sensed images in real time. However, it is hard to develop a real-time and full-resolution website, due to the large amount of data to be handled. Himawari-8 real-time web is only one website that provides full-resolution remotely sensed images in real time. To reduce network traffic and increase the access speed of it from other countries out of Japan, mirror websites of each country are needed. In this paper, we propose a cost-effective mirroring system for the Himawari-8 real-time web. A mirroring model is introduced to avoid the problem of big data processing in the mirror websites. We adopt a file copy tool based on high-performance and flexible protocol (HpFP) to transfer meteorological satellite data from the Himawari-8 real-time web to the mirror websites. Our first target is Thailand, one of the most disaster-prone countries in South-East Asia. The mirror website is set up at an institution in Thailand connected via collaborative international networks, e.g., Japan Gigabit Network (JGN) and Asia Pacific Advanced Network (APAN). The results show that the proposed mirroring system is able to overcome the big data issue by reducing the central processing unit (CPU) usage in the mirror website and transferring remotely sensed image files at high speed over international networks even under packet loss conditions. This suggests that our mirroring system has a potential for deployment in other Asian and Oceanian countries.
Remark on a Regularity Criterion in Terms of Pressure for the 3D Inviscid Boussinesq–Voigt Equations
Authors: Bisconti Luca
Published: August 2020

We consider the three-dimensional inviscid Boussinesq–Voigt system which is a regularization model for the inviscid Boussinesq equations. We prove a regularity criterion for the weak solutions (in particular, for the time-derivative of the velocity), in$$\mathrm L^p$$Lp-spaces, involving first derivatives of the pressure.
Intrinsic resistance to terbinafine among human and animal isolates of Trichophyton mentagrophytes related to amino acid substitution in the squalene epoxidase
Authors: Łagowski Dominik , Gnat Sebastian , Nowakiewicz Aneta , Osińska Marcelina , Dyląg Mariusz
Published: August 2020

Background

Dermatomycoses are the most common fungal infections in the world affecting a significant part of the human and animal population. The majority of zoophilic infections in humans are caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Currently, the first-line drug for both oral and topical therapy is terbinafine. However, an increasing number of cases that are difficult to be cured with this drug have been noted in Europe and Asia. Resistance to terbinafine and other allylamines is very rare and usually correlated with point mutations in the squalene epoxidase gene resulting in single amino acid substitutions in the enzyme, which is crucial in the ergosterol synthesis pathway.

Purpose

Here, we report terbinafine-resistant T. mentagrophytes isolates among which one was an etiological factor of tinea capitis in a man and three were obtained from asymptomatic foxes in Poland.

Methods

We used the CLSI protocol to determine antifungal susceptibility profiles of naftifine, amphotericin B, griseofulvin, ketoconazole, miconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, and ciclopirox. Moreover, the squalene epoxidase gene of the terbinafine-resistant strains was sequenced and analysed.

Results

In the genomes of all four resistant strains exhibiting elevated MICs to terbinafine (16 to 32 µg/ml), single-point mutations leading to Leu393Phe substitution in the squalene epoxidase enzyme were revealed. Among the other tested substances, a MIC50 value of 1 µg/ml was shown only for griseofulvin.

Conclusion

Finally, our study revealed that the terbinafine resistance phenomenon might not be acquired by exposure to the drug but can be intrinsic. This is evidenced by the description of the terbinafine-resistant strains isolated from the asymptomatic animals.
Parallel Nanoimprint Forming of One-Dimensional Chiral Semiconductor for Strain-Engineered Optical Properties
Authors: Wang Yixiu , Jin Shengyu , Wang Qingxiao , Wu Min , Yao Shukai , Liao Peilin , Kim Moon J. , Cheng Gary J. , Wu Wenzhuo
Published: August 2020

The low-dimensional, highly anisotropic geometries, and superior mechanical properties of one-dimensional (1D) nanomaterials allow the exquisite strain engineering with a broad tunability inaccessible to bulk or thin-film materials. Such capability enables unprecedented possibilities for probing intriguing physics and materials science in the 1D limit. Among the techniques for introducing controlled strains in 1D materials, nanoimprinting with embossed substrates attracts increased attention due to its capability to parallelly form nanomaterials into wrinkled structures with controlled periodicities, amplitudes, orientations at large scale with nanoscale resolutions. Here, we systematically investigated the strain-engineered anisotropic optical properties in Te nanowires through introducing a controlled strain field using a resist-free thermally assisted nanoimprinting process. The magnitude of induced strains can be tuned by adjusting the imprinting pressure, the nanowire diameter, and the patterns on the substrates. The observed Raman spectra from the chiral-chain lattice of 1D Te reveal the strong lattice vibration response under the strain. Our results suggest the potential of 1D Te as a promising candidate for flexible electronics, deformable optoelectronics, and wearable sensors. The experimental platform can also enable the exquisite mechanical control in other nanomaterials using substrate-induced, on-demand, and controlled strains.
Justice for sale: political crises and legal development
Authors: Simpson Hannah K.
Published: August 2020

Political security is often viewed as a necessary precondition for rulers to develop property-protecting legal institutions. I argue that because these institutions can build political support and generate revenue, domestically insecure rulers may also invest in them. I test this argument using newly collected 12th-century data on the operation of the nascent English common law system. Leveraging the 1192 shipwreck and subsequent kidnap of Richard I as an exogenous shock to domestic political security, I find that the catastrophe appears to have prompted the English Royal Court's short-term deployment to raise political support in areas vulnerable to rebellion. I present suggestive evidence that this effect in vulnerable areas persisted into the medium-term, and appears to have expanded to the rest of the country. Drawing on this and other evidence of changes in Royal Court funding, activity, and organization between 1184 and 1203, I argue that the shock may have helped to bring about a permanent increase in the Court's capacity and accessibility. These findings are relevant to studies of the common law and the political economy of legal institutions generally.
The rationale and design of public involvement in health-funding decision making: focus groups with the Canadian public
Authors: Lopes Edilene , Street Jackie , Stafinski Tania , Merlin Tracy , Carter Drew
Published: August 2020

Background

Worldwide, governments employ health technology assessment (HTA) in healthcare funding decision making. Requests to include public perspectives in this are increasing, with the idea being that the public can identify social values to guide policy development, increasing the transparency and accountability of government decision making.

Objective

To understand the perspectives of the Canadian public on the rationale and design of public involvement in HTA.

Design

A demographically representative sample of residents of a Canadian province was selected to take part in two sets of two focus groups (sixteen people for the first set and twenty for the second set).

Results

Participants were suspicious of the interests driving various stakeholders involved in HTA. They saw the public as uniquely impartial though also lacking knowledge about health technologies. Participants were also suspicious of personal biases and commended mechanisms to reduce their impact. Participants suggested various involvement methods, such as focus groups, citizens' juries and surveys, noting advantages and disadvantages belonging to each and commending a combination.

Discussion and conclusions

We identified a lack of public understanding of how decisions are made and distrust concerning whose interests and values are being considered. Public involvement was seen as a way of providing information to the public and ascertaining their views and values. Participants suggested that public involvement should employ a mixed-methods strategy to support informed debate and participation of a large number of people.
Focused Fluid Flow Along the Nootka Fault Zone and Continental Slope, Explorer‐Juan de Fuca Plate Boundary
Authors: Riedel M. , Rohr K. M. M. , Spence G. D. , Kelley D. , Delaney J. , Lapham L. , Pohlman J. W. , Hyndman R. D. , Willoughby E. C.
Published: August 2020

Geophysical and geochemical data indicate there is abundant fluid expulsion in the Nootka fault zone (NFZ) between the Juan de Fuca and Explorer plates and the Nootka continental slope. Here we combine observations from >20 years of investigations to demonstrate the nature of fluid‐flow along the NFZ, which is the seismically most active region off Vancouver Island. Seismicity reaching down to the upper mantle is linked to near‐seafloor manifestation of fluid flow through a network of faults. Along the two main fault traces, seismic reflection data imaged bright spots 100–300 m below seafloor that lie above changes in basement topography. The bright spots are conformable to sediment layering, show opposite‐to‐seafloor reflection polarity, and are associated with frequency reduction and velocity push‐down indicating the presence of gas in the sediments. Two seafloor mounds ~15 km seaward of the Nootka slope are underlain by deep, nonconformable high‐amplitude reflective zones. Measurements in the water column above one mound revealed a plume of warm water, and bottom‐video observations imaged hydrothermal vent system biota. Pore fluids from a core at this mound contain predominately microbial methane (C1) with a high proportion of ethane (C2) yielding C1/C2 ratios <500 indicating a possible slight contribution from a deep source. We infer the reflective zones beneath the two mounds are basaltic intrusions that create hydrothermal circulation within the overlying sediments. Across the Nootka continental slope, gas hydrate‐related bottom‐simulating reflectors are widespread and occur at depths indicating heat flow values of 80–90 mW/m2.
Slow Stick‐Slip Failure in Halite Gouge Caused by Brittle‐Plastic Fault Heterogeneity
Authors: Hirauchi Ken‐ichi , Yoshida Yoshiaki , Yabe Yasuo , Muto Jun
Published: August 2020

Slow earthquakes, including low‐frequency earthquakes and tremor, occur in the brittle‐ductile (plastic) transition zone on plate boundary faults. To understand how transitions in deformation mechanisms can influence seismic behavior, we conducted stick‐slip experiments on halite gouge at normal stresses (σn) of 8 to 113 MPa. In the brittle regime (σn ≤ 18 MPa), the halite gouge showed fast and regular stick‐slip associated with velocity‐weakening behavior. In contrast, increasing the normal stress within the semibrittle regime (σn ≥ 27 MPa) led to a significant decrease in slip velocity and stress drop, which was associated with a transition from velocity‐weakening to velocity‐strengthening behavior. Local stress measurements along the simulated faults, made using strain gauges, revealed that the critical nucleation length (Lc) increased with increasing normal stress. Macrostructural and microstructural observations showed that the transition from fast dynamic slip to slow quasi‐static slip could be attributed to an increasing contribution from semibrittle/plastic deformation occurring within domains that are heterogeneously distributed within the gouge layer. Our findings suggest that brittle‐plastic fault heterogeneity, which may be generated by spatial variations in pore fluid pressure and/or lithology, contributes to the emergence of slow earthquakes.
The Potential Impacts of the Erratic Motion of Dip Equator and Magnetic Poles
Authors: Yizengaw Endawoke
Published: August 2020

This paper examined the secular displacement of the dip equator and the geomagnetic poles as well as the variations of the global magnetic inclination and declination angles using magnetometer measurements onboard different low‐Earth orbit (LEO) satellite. The secular variation of the dip equator and geomagnetic poles has different impacts on different applications—from affecting the long‐term characterization of the low‐latitude ionosphere to degrading the precision of geomagnetic navigation. The strong displacement of the dip equator can result in a systematic error in the determination of the long‐term equatorial electric field variations and hence in the characterization of ionospheric density structure, especially in the region, where the displacement of dip equator is large enough (more than 20 km or 0.2°/year) within the time scale of a solar cycle or less. Similarly, the slowly moving locations of magnetic poles, estimated from magnetometer observations onboard LEO satellite, exemplify noticeable discrepancy with that of world magnetic model (WMM) and International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF) values, indicating inevitable possible impact on the precise geomagnetic navigation for commercial and military applications. Thus, accurately estimated locations of the dip equator and magnetic poles, as well as declination angles, are critically important.
Ancient Martian Aeolian Sand Dune Deposits Recorded in the Stratigraphy of Valles Marineris and Implications for Past Climates
Authors: Chojnacki Matthew , Fenton Lori K. , Weintraub Aaron Robert , Edgar Lauren A. , Jodhpurkar Mohini J. , Edwards Christopher S.
Published: August 2020

Aeolian sediment transport, deposition, and erosion have been ongoing throughout Mars's history. This record of widespread aeolian processes is preserved in landforms and geologic units that retain important clues about past environmental conditions including wind patterns. In this study we describe landforms within Melas Chasma, Valles Marineris, that occur in distinct groups with linear to crescentic shapes, arranged with a characteristic wavelength; some possess slope profiles analogous to modern sand dunes yet show evidence for lithification. Based on the features' dimensions, asymmetry, and spatial patterns relative to modern equivalents, we interpret these landforms to be two classes of aeolian bedforms: decameter‐scale megaripples and sand dunes. The presence of superposed erosional features and depositional units indicates that these landforms were cemented and likely ancient. Melas paleodunes are found atop Hesperian‐aged layered deposits, but we estimate them to be younger, likely lithified in the Amazonian period. Although a range of degradation was observed, some paleodunes are >10 m tall and maintain steep lee sides (>25°), an uncommon scenario for terrestrial examples as other geologic processes lead to dune obliteration. The preserved paleobedform geometries are largely consistent with those of modern aeolian indicators, suggesting no major shifts in wind regime or contributing boundary conditions. Finally, we propose that their appearance and context require sequential periods of dune migration, stabilization following catastrophic burial, cementation, differential erosion, exposure, and burial. The presence of wholly preserved duneforms appears to be more common on Mars compared to the Earth and may signal something important about Martian landscape evolution.
Beyond x,y,z(t); Navigating New Landscapes of Science in the Science of Landscapes
Authors: Koppes Michèle , King Leonora
Published: August 2020

At the start of its centennial year, AGU's surface process community revisited G. K. Gilbert's legacy of landscape description and experimental models of surface processes, as well as his embrace of critique and pragmatism in the practice of landscape science. In the 100 years, since Gilbert and especially since the dawn of the 21st century, we have seen an intensified focus on the acquisition of more and more earth observation data and the numerical modeling of landscapes, alongside widespread use of deterministic and predictive practices to find solutions to the social, economic, and environmental challenges of today. What have we gained and lost in this pursuit? Here we lay out some of the challenges for the discipline in an increasingly data‐rich and complex world in which earth science is also being called to reorient itself towards more societally relevant roles. We ask the community to ponder the following: Is the discipline serving our scientific and societal goals, or is there a need for the science of landscapes to adopt new frameworks of thinking and to question the deterministic approaches that have dominated our discipline to date, in order to attend to the needs of living in the Anthropocene?
Recent Constraints on MIS 3 Sea Level Support Role of Continental Shelf Exposure as a Control on Indo‐Pacific Hydroclimate
Authors: Pico T. , McGee D. , Russell J. , Mitrovica J. X.
Published: August 2020

The mechanisms controlling changes in atmospheric circulation and rainfall over the Indo‐Pacific Warm Pool (IPWP) on glacial‐interglacial timescales remain a subject of considerable debate. Continental shelf exposure, through sea‐level drawdown during glacial periods, has been proposed as an important and possibly dominant control on rainfall intensity over the IPWP and Indian Ocean. However, longer records of hydroclimate change undermine this shelf exposure hypothesis. In particular, trends in some proxy records of rainfall do not track the extent of continental shelf exposure inferred from global benthic oxygen isotope records during Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3). We revisit the hypothesis that continental shelf exposure controls IPWP precipitation using the latest constraints on ice‐age sea level. Recent studies on the timing and magnitude of global mean sea level during mid‐MIS 3 (~45) suggest significantly higher peak sea level relative to previous work. Our gravitationally self‐consistent glacial isostatic adjustment sea‐level reconstructions, which adopt recent constraints on MIS 3 sea level, predict a transition from widely inundated to exposed shelves in the Indo‐Pacific region from mid‐MIS 3 to the beginning of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM, ~19–26 ka). Over this same time period, proxy records of vegetation and hydrology from central Indonesia suggest a transition from wetter conditions during mid‐MIS 3 to drier conditions during the LGM. Our new calculations thus negate prior criticisms related to the timing and extent of shelf exposure, indicating that shelf exposure may remain an important driver for hydroclimate variability in the IPWP region on glacial‐interglacial timescales.
Controllable synthesis of rare earth (Gd3+,Tm3+) doped Prussian blue for multimode imaging guided synergistic treatment
Authors: Xu Mingyue , Chi Bin , Han Zhiyuan , He Yuting , Tian Feng , Xu Zushun , Li Ling , Wang Jing
Published: August 2020

A nanotherapeutic agent for multimode imaging guided synergistic treatment is constructed on the basis of optimal rare earth doped Prussian blue.
A comparative study on sulfide removal by HClO and KMnO4 in drinking water
Authors: Huang Yeju , Liu Zaohong , Guo Yuanyuan , Lin Qin , Liao Xiaobin , Qi Huan
Published: August 2020

Sulfides, which are highly toxic to aquatic organisms and the human body, can be widely detected in water sources, especially in summer.
A synergistic optical strategy for enhanced deep-tumor penetration and therapy in the second near-infrared window
Authors: Wu Di , Chen Xiaohong , Zhou Jiajing , Chen Yuxuan , Wan Tao , Wang Yi , Lin Aifu , Ruan Yeping , Chen Zhong , Song Xiangrong , Fang Wenjun , Duan Hongwei , Ping Yuan
Published: August 2020

A mesoporous core–shell nanohybrid allows delivery of thermophilic enzymes for stromal depletion and high photothermal conversion efficiency for tumor therapy.
Tunable nonlinear optical responses and carrier dynamics of two-dimensional antimonene nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Lei , Fahad Shah , Wu Hao-Ran , Dong Tao-Tao , Chen Zi-Zhen , Zhang Ze-Qi , Liu Rui-Tong , Zhai Xin-Ping , Li Xiang-Yang , Fei Xian , Song Qi-Wei , Wang Zhe-Ji , Chen Li-Chuan , Sun Chun-Lin , Peng Yong , Wang Qiang , Zhang Hao-Li
Published: August 2020

We developed a size-controlled intercalation method to prepare Sb nanosheets. A distinct size-dependent nonlinear optical response, unveiling the strong influence of the scale of the Sb nanosheets on the carrier dynamics was observed.
Four Keggin-based compounds constructed by a series of pyridine derivatives: synthesis, and electrochemical, photocatalytic and fluorescence sensing properties
Authors: Mou Hai-chen , Ying Jun , Tian Ai-xiang , Cui Hong-tao , Wang Xiu-li
Published: August 2020

Four compounds based on Keggin anions and AgI ions were obtained, the photocatalytic and electrochemical properties were studied. Compound 4 can act as a Hg2+ fluorescence sensor.
Prompt detection of endogenous hypochlorite (ClO−) in murine macrophages and zebrafish embryos facilitated by a distinctive chemodosimetric mode
Authors: Saha Shrabani , Das Sujoy , Das Sriparna , Samanta Anwesha , Maitra Sudipta , Sahoo Prithidipa
Published: August 2020

A fluorescein appended naphthalene diimide based probe (FANDI) has been developed to selectively recognize exogenous as well as endogenous ClO− ions in RAW 264.7 cells (macrophages) and zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio).
Characterizing the spatiotemporal evolution of paramagnetic colloids in time-varying magnetic fields with Minkowski functionals
Authors: Hilou Elaa , Joshi Kedar , Biswal Sibani Lisa
Published: August 2020

Minkowski functionals are used to develop scaling relationships that explain how the characteristic length in these paramagnetic colloidal fluids evolves as a function of the applied field strength and particle concentration.
Carbon quantum dot modified Na3V2(PO4)2F3as a high-performance cathode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Shengyuan , Cao Xinxin , Zhang Yangpu , Wang Ke , Su Qiong , Chen Jing , He Qiong , Liang Shuquan , Cao Guozhong , Pan Anqiang
Published: August 2020

We fabricate carbon quantum dot-modified Na3V2(PO4)2F3hierarchical microspheres, which exhibit outstanding high-rate and ultralong-life performance as a half-cell cathode. A Na-ion full-cell (with a hard carbon anode) delivers high cell voltage and good cycling stability.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gastrointestinal endoscopy in Africa
Authors: Ebigbo Alanna , Karstensen John Gásdal , Bhat Purnima , Ijoma Uchenna , Osuagwu Chukwuemeka , Desalegn Hailemichael , Oyeleke Ganiyat K. , Gebru Rezene B. , Guy Claire , Antonelli Giulio , Vilmann Peter , Aabakken Lars , Hassan Cesare
Published: August 2020

Background and study aims As with all other fields of medical practice, gastrointestinal endoscopy has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data on the impact of the pandemic in Africa, especially sub-Saharan Africa are lacking.

Methods A web-based survey was conducted by the International Working Group of the European Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the World Endoscopy Organization to determine the impact and effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on endoscopists in African countries.

Results Thirty-one gastroenterologists from 14 countries in north, central, and sub-Saharan Africa responded to the survey. The majority of respondents reduced their endoscopy volume considerably. Personal protective equipment including FFP-2 masks were available in almost all participating centers. Pre-endoscopy screening was performed as well.

Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on gastrointestinal endoscopy in most African countries; however, the impact may not have been as devastating as expected.
Second Ventilatory Threshold Assessed by Heart Rate Variability in a
Multiple Shuttle Run Test
Authors: Stergiopoulos Dimitrios C. , Kounalakis Stylianos N. , Miliotis Panagiotis G. , Geladas Nikolaos D
Published: August 2020

Many studies have focused on heart rate variability in association with
ventilatory thresholds. The purpose of the current study was to consider the
ECG-derived respiration and the high frequency product of heart rate variability
as applicable methods to assess the second ventilatory threshold
(VT2). Fifteen healthy young soccer players participated in the
study. Respiratory gases and ECGs were collected during an incremental
laboratory test and in a multistage shuttle run test until exhaustion.
VΤ2 was individually calculated using the deflection
point of ventilatory equivalents. In addition, VT2 was assessed both
by the deflection point of ECG-derived respiration and high frequency product.
Results showed no statistically significant differences between VT2,
and the threshold as determined with high frequency product and ECG-derived
respiration (F(2,28)=0.83, p=0.45,
η2=0.05). A significant intraclass correlation was
observed for ECG-derived respiration (r=0.94) and high frequency product
(r=0.95) with VT2. Similarly, Bland Altman analysis showed a
considerable agreement between VT2 vs. ECG-derived respiration (mean
difference of −0.06 km·h−1,
95% CL: ±0.40) and VT2 vs. high frequency product
(mean difference of 0.02 km·h−1, 95%
CL: ±0.38). This study suggests that, high frequency product and
ECG-derived respiration are indeed reliable heart rate variability indices
determining VT2 in a field shuttle run test
Recent Advances in Sulfur-Containing Heterocycle Formation via Direct C–H Sulfuration with Elemental Sulfur
Authors: Deng Guo-Jun , Huang Huawen , Liu Saiwen
Published: August 2020

The synthesis of sulfur heterocycles via the construction of C–S bonds has received considerable attention due to their biological value and extensive pharmaceutical application. While diverse sulfurating agents have been developed over the past few decades, in this regard, elemental sulfur, with advantages of low toxicity, odorless nature and chemical stability, has great potential for the construction of diverse sulfur heterocycles through its direct incorporation into the target molecules in a concise way. Direct functionalization of inert C–H bonds can shorten the number of reaction steps and minimize the amount of waste formed. Hence, heteroannulations via direct C–H sulfuration is considered to be an attractive strategy for the synthesis of sulfur heterocycles. In the last few years, a vast array of concise systems have been reported for the synthesis of some valuable sulfur heterocycles such as thiophenes, thienoindoles, thienothiazoles, thiazoles, benzothiazoles, and thiadiazoles through direct C–H sulfuration/annulations with elemental sulfur. These are discussed in detail in this review.

1 Introduction

2 Thiophenes

3 Thienoindoles

4 Thienothiazoles

5 Other Fused Thiophenes

6 Thiazoles

7 Benzothiazoles

8 Thiadiazoles

9 Others

10 Summary and Outlook
Metal-Quinoid Carbene Chemistry: From Bonding to C–H Activation Catalysis
Authors: Che Chi-Ming , Wang Hai-Xu , Wu Kai
Published: August 2020

This account summarizes our recent work on metal-quinoid carbene (QC) chemistry including (a) dirhodium-catalyzed QC C(sp2)–H insertion reactions enabled by a C-centered carbene-transfer reactivity, (b) the isolation, characterization, and dual reactivity of Ru(II) porphyrin QC complexes, and (c) iridium(III) porphyrin-catalyzed QC C(sp3)–H insertion reaction initiated by an O-centered hydrogen-atom transfer reactivity of metal–QC species.

1 Introduction

2 Catalytic Quinoid Carbene Insertions into C(sp2)–H Bonds Enabled by Carbene-Transfer Reactivity

3 Ruthenium(II) Porphyrin Quinoid Carbene Complexes and Dual Reactivity

4 Catalytic Quinoid Carbene Insertions into C(sp3)–H Bonds Enabled by Hydrogen-Atom-Transfer Reactivity

5 Perspective and Outlook
Ectopic Cerebellar Tissue in the Occipital Bone: A Case Report
Authors: Gupta Mihir , Duddleston Pate J. , Sagi Varun , Powers Martin , Sang U Hoi
Published: August 2020

Ectopic cerebellar tissue has only been described in isolated case reports, with only two reported cases in adult patients. We report the case of a 63-year-old woman with progressive, medically refractory headaches. A scan showed an intraosseous lesion of the midline occipital bone. Surgical resection of the soft tissue lesion was undertaken. Her headaches ceased postoperatively. Histopathological analysis revealed cerebellar cortical tissue with a surrounding meningothelial cell layer, characteristic of cerebellar ectopia. This is the second reported case of an intraosseous location of this lesion, and only the third case described in an adult patient. Our findings illustrate a rare cause of headaches and support the therapeutic roles of surgical treatment for this extremely rare condition.
Principles of Protection of the Eye and Vision in Orbital Surgery
Authors: Dohlman Jenny C. , Yoon Michael K.
Published: August 2020

Orbital surgery can result in damage to ocular and orbital structures, leading to a range of structural and visual sequelae, including corneal abrasions, globe malposition, diplopia, and blindness. Vision loss in particular is the most feared and devastating complication, occurs with an overall incidence of 0.84%, and can occur secondary to direct injury, optic nerve compression, or ischemic events. Different types of orbital surgery and surgical approaches carry their own hazards, and it is important to be mindful of these risks in addition to having a thorough understanding of individual risk factors and anatomical variations for each patient. Although universal guidelines for preserving vision in orbital surgery do not yet exist, there are concrete steps that every surgeon can take at the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages to minimize the risk of injury and maximize the likelihood of preserving the eye and visual function.
Averting Delayed Complications of Open Anterior Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Ringel Barak , Livneh Nir , Carmel-Neiderman Narin N. , Horowitz Gilad , Margalit Nevo , Fliss Dan M. , Abergel Avraham
Published: August 2020

Objective Despite its technical feasibility, anterior skull base surgery still carries the risk of severe postoperative complications, morbidity, and mortality. The reported rate of complications has diminished over the past two decades, but they continue to pose various challenges. This study aims to report late complications in a relatively large series of patients who underwent open anterior skull base surgery, and to propose methods for averting such complications.

Methods Retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent anterior open skull base surgery between 2000 and 2016 in a university-affiliated tertiary referral cancer center.

Results There were 301 operations, of which 198 (65.8%) were for benign disease and 103 (34.2%) were for malignant tumors. The male-to-female ratio was 1.4:1, and the mean age was 44.8 years. Delayed complications occurred in 85 patients (28.2%): 31 (10.3%) involved wounds, 18 (13.9%) involved the central nervous system, and 14 (4.6%) involved the orbit. Multivariate analysis found malignant pathology, intracranial extension, and previous radiochemotherapy as predictors for the development of a delayed complication. The patients who were operated in the later study period (after 2007) had lower rates of all three types of complications compared with the earlier study period.

Conclusion Delayed complications following skull base surgery are in decline. This is mainly due to the advancement in imaging studies, surgical techniques, development of sophisticated reconstructive procedures, and the cooperation of multidisciplinary teams. We attribute the reduction in our department to our revised treatment protocol which is presented herein, with emphasis on averting the occurrence of these complications.

Level of Evidence The level of evidence is 4.
The Auditory Steady-State Response: Clinical Observations and Applications in Infants and Children
Authors: Cone-Wesson Barbara , Rickards Field , Poulis Christine , Praker John , Tan Lesley , Pollard Jan
Published: August 2020

Two studies illustrate the use of the auditory steady-state response (ASSR) in the pediatric clinical audiology setting. A protocol for estimating bone-conduction thresholds from ASSR was developed. Bone-conducted narrow-band noise was used to mask the ASSR for a 1.0-kHz modulated tone. The amount of bone-conducted noise needed to mask the ASSR may distinguish between infants and children with conductive hearing losses and those with sensory losses. The amount of bone-conducted noise may also be used to estimate bone-conduction thresholds; however, the accuracy of this technique needs verification with behavioral methods to determine thresholds for bone-conducted pure tones in infants. When ASSR tests are used as part of the diagnostic evaluation for infants and children at risk for hearing loss, the results yield information about the audiometric contour and residual hearing, which aid in treatment and habilitation decisions.
Distribution of subsoil microbial activity and biomass under Australian rotational cotton as influenced by system, crop status and season
Authors: Polain Katherine , Knox Oliver , Wilson Brian , Guppy Christopher , Lisle Leanne , Nachimuthu Gunasekhar , Osanai Yui , Siebers Nina
Published: August 2020

Soils provide the substrate for important microbial mechanisms that moderate a variety of processes in both managed and natural terrestrial ecosystems. Australian soils are particularly ‘stressed’ and are considered to be highly weathered and nutrient deficient. This places increased pressure on the Australian cotton industry to sustainably increase productivity to support the fibre demands of a growing global population. We explored Vertosol subsoils (>30 cm) under rotational cotton crops, measuring the distribution of soil microbial activity (SMA) and biomass (SMB) to 100 cm depth, as influenced by crop system and time, using respiration-based experiments. Seasonal SMA fluctuations were considered by capturing the long-term SMA between systems using stable oxygen isotope methodology. Our results indicate that subsoils contributed 47% of SMA, regardless of system, but subsoil SMB (26%) was constrained by resource availability. Long-term SMA was not significantly influenced by depth and system, presumably as a consequence of the shrink–swell nature of Vertosols facilitating organic matter movement down the profile. The impact of this organic matter on the activity of indigenous microorganisms below the top 30 cm of the profile highlights a need to consider deeper soil when unravelling the potential microbial benefits to our cropping systems.
History and challenges of translation and interpreting in Modern Korea
Authors: Ahn In-kyoung
Published: August 2020

In 1979, a graduate school with a hitherto unusual name opened its doors at the Hankuk University of Foreign
Studies in Seoul, the ‘Graduate School of Simultaneous Interpretation’, as the school GSIT, HUFS was called at that time. Up to
then, translation and interpreting had not been considered as proper occupations in Korea. It was actually not known which people
with what kind of qualifications performed translation or interpreting. It was therefore a completely novel idea that translators
and interpreters should be trained at a higher education institution. Yet, GSIT proved to be a huge success. GSIT attracted a
great deal of public attention and many talented young people. The hitherto accumulated T&I needs in society and the trend of
globalization played their part in GSIT’s popularity.

As the only educational institution for T&I for the first 18 years and beyond, GSIT has written key chapters
in the history of T&I in modern Korea. This paper summarizes GSIT’s footsteps in order to discuss the developments of the past
four decades in Korea in T&I education and studies, in the T&I profession and the economic and socio-cultural aspects of
those developments. Based on the results of the discussion, the current situation of T&I in Korea is observed with a focus on
‘professionality’ so as to identify tasks for the future.
Taxonomy, origin and importance of the Apiaceae family.
Authors: Reduron Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2020

Apiaceae is a plant family comprising at the present time 466 genera and about 3800 species. It is distributed nearly worldwide, but is most diverse in temperate climatic areas, such as Eurasia and North America. It is quite rare in tropical humid regions where it is limited to high mountains. Mediterranean and arid climatic conditions favour high species diversification. This chapter provides information on the taxonomy and history, as well as economic importance, properties and uses of the Apiaceae family.
Serum HBsAg clearance has minimal impact on CD8+ T cell responses in mouse models of HBV infection
Authors: Fumagalli Valeria , Di Lucia Pietro , Venzin Valentina , Bono Elisa B. , Jordan Robert , Frey Christian R. , Delaney William , Chisari Francis V. , Guidotti Luca G. , Iannacone Matteo
Published: August 2020

Antibody-mediated clearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) from the circulation of chronically infected patients (i.e., seroconversion) is usually associated with increased HBV-specific T cell responsiveness. However, a causative link between serum HBsAg levels and impairment of intrahepatic CD8+ T cells has not been established. Here we addressed this issue by using HBV replication-competent transgenic mice that are depleted of circulating HBsAg, via either spontaneous seroconversion or therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, as recipients of HBV-specific CD8+ T cells. Surprisingly, we found that serum HBsAg clearance has only a minimal effect on the expansion of HBV-specific naive CD8+ T cells undergoing intrahepatic priming. It does not alter their propensity to become dysfunctional, nor does it enhance the capacity of IL-2–based immunotherapeutic strategies to increase their antiviral function. In summary, our results reveal that circulating HBsAg clearance does not improve HBV-specific CD8+ T cell responses in vivo and may have important implications for the treatment of chronic HBV infection.
A new initial basis for the simplex method combined with the nonfeasible basis method
Authors: Sangngern Kasitinart , Boonperm Aua-aree
Published: August 2020

The simplex method is a popular method to solve a linear programming problem. It starts by choosing an initial basis associated with the origin point which is far from the optimal point in some problems. In this paper, we introduce a construction of an initial basis for starting the simplex method associated with an extreme point which is close to the optimal solution. This construction involves the angle between the coefficient vector of the objective function and the coefficient vector of each constraint. The small angles will be considered to construct a basis. If the proposed initial basis gives the infeasible solutions, then the nonfeasible basis method is performed to avoid the use of artificial variables. Not only the starting point is close to the optimal point, but also the artificial variable is needless. The results in the computational aspect show that the number of iterations and the running time of our method are less than other methods.
Clustering the Rainfall Stations in Thailand Using Self-Organizing Map
Authors: Wangsoh Natita , Permpoonsinsup Wachirapond
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study is to classify the pattern of rainfall stations in Thailand over the period from the year 2000 to 2009 using Self-Organizing Map (SOM). The number of stations is collected based on the complete rainfall data during rainy season. The optimal cases of learning rate function and different two SOM array sizes are investigated. The Gaussian function is applied as the neighborhood function. The results show that linear function and the 2×2 SOM array size are most suitable for classifying the pattern of rainfall. The similar characteristic of daily rainfall in each station is clustered into four patterns. Thus, SOM can be classified the similar rainfall stations, efficiently.
Detection of the Weak CMEs by CALLISTO System
Authors: Norsham N A M , Hamidi Z S , Shariff N N M
Published: August 2020

CALLISTO (Compound Astronomical Low Frequency Low Cost Instrument for Spectroscopy and Transportable Observatory) is one of the projects from ISWI and initiative of United Nation and NASA as a support to help developing countries to monitor activities of the Sun for the whole day. Today, more than 164 instruments at more than 100 locations use this system to do research on the Sun. The objective of this paper is to show that even the activity from the Sun is not too intense and large, the CALLISTO system can detect the signal, hence the importance of this system is acknowledged. This is as a hint for us to use the antenna as the part of the CALLISTO system to get the full coverage all day long with the contributed data from around the world. A weak Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) with the median velocity of 231 km/s was observed on 9th March 2019 by SOHO coronagraph and detected by CALLISTO system from multiple sites of UK, Switzerland and Italy. This faint CME was not giving the high impact to the Earth’s magnetosphere and thus no minor occurrence of the geomagnetic storm.
Arching Phenomenon of Granules in Fluid under Rotation System
Authors: Chaiworn P. , Inthakum P.
Published: August 2020

This research aims to explain the experimental model using theoretical analysis techniques, the mechanisms of convection and arching for granular sands with fluid under the rotation system. The arrangement of the granular sands with fluid arching thus forms a cylindrical container while under rotating. The results showed that the convection of the fluid, while a rotating continuously, the fluid then moves to the side surface of the container. Causing a center of the bottom of the container is empty space, the surface of the fluid to look like a parabolic curve. When the granular sands drop into an empty area to the center of container. To fill that area than arching at the center of the cylindrical container. That looks like an inverted parabola curve. The mixing mechanisms adjusted the small granular sands with fluid to stable more than large granular sands. This mechanism, can lead to a knowledge of the applications in agriculture and industry.
Time-domain optical coherence tomography and gelatin-based skin phantom as training tools for venipuncture
Authors: Mandia P F , Vallar E A , Shiina T , Macalalad E P , Galvez M C D
Published: August 2020

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging modality developed in the early 1990’s for retinal imaging. Further modifications allowed OCT’s to be used on other parts of the human body, and non-medical areas as well. Time-domain OCT (TD-OCT) basically is a Michelson interferometer with a low-coherence light source which enables non-invasive, cross-sectional visualization of the sample. In this paper, the researchers used the TD-OCT system, which uses a rotating reference mirror. Using this system in conjunction with fabricated skin phantoms, students of venipuncture can hone their skills on skin phantoms before practicing on actual persons. This helps in mitigating the potential risks inherent to the performance of invasive procedures such as venipuncture. Furthermore, the skin phantom is chiefly composed of gelatin with latex tubing used to imitate the veins. Such materials are cheap and readily available, allowing multiple phantoms to be fabricated easily. Preliminary results showed that OCT is a promising tool in imaging the tissue phantom and thus can be utilized for venipuncture training.
Market efficiency of the crude palm oil: Evidence from quantum harmonic oscillator
Authors: Lee G H , Joo K , Ahn K
Published: August 2020

This study examines the weak-form efficient market hypothesis of the crude palm oil market by adopting the quantum harmonic oscillator. This approach allows us to analyze market efficiency by estimating one parameter: the probability of finding the market in a ground state. Our results confirm that the crude palm oil market is more efficient than the West Texas Intermediate crude oil market. We explain the greater market efficiency comes from a small proportion of speculative transactions, resulting from tight market operation policies.