bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcranial stimulation in frontotemporal dementia: A randomized, double‐blind, sham‐controlled trial
Authors: Benussi Alberto , Dell'Era Valentina , Cosseddu Maura , Cantoni Valentina , Cotelli Maria Sofia , Cotelli Maria , Manenti Rosa , Benussi Luisa , Brattini Chiara , Alberici Antonella , Borroni Barbara
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a progressive disease for which no curative treatment is currently available. We aimed to determine whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can modulate intracortical connectivity and improve cognition in symptomatic FTD patients and presymptomatic FTD subjects.

Methods

We performed a double‐blind, randomized, sham‐controlled trial with anodal tDCS or sham stimulation over the left prefrontal cortex in 70 participants (15 presymptomatic and 55 symptomatic FTD).

Results

We observed a significant increase of intracortical connectivity (short interval intracortical inhibition and facilitation) and improvement in clinical scores and behavioral disturbances in both symptomatic FTD patients and presymptomatic carriers after real tDCS but not after sham stimulation.

Discussion

A 2‐weeks’ treatment with anodal left prefrontal tDCS improves symptoms and restores intracortical inhibitory and excitatory circuits in both symptomatic FTD patients and presymptomatic carriers. tDCS might represent a promising future therapeutic and rehabilitative approach in patients with FTD.
Highly Skilled Migration: Concept and Definitions
Authors: Weinar Agnieszka , Klekowski von Koppenfels Amanda
Published: May 2020

This Chapter discusses a variety of definitions of highly skilled migration and highly skilled migrants. We address a number of inconsistencies in the definitions and conceptual frameworks which are used, and present critical views of these conceptualisations
Long non-coding RNAs in cutaneous biology and keratinocyte carcinomas
Authors: Piipponen Minna , Nissinen Liisa , Kähäri Veli-Matti
Published: May 2020

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a largely uncharacterized group of non-coding RNAs with diverse regulatory roles in various biological processes. Recent observations have elucidated the functional roles of lncRNAs in cutaneous biology, e.g. in proliferation and differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes and in cutaneous wound repair. Furthermore, the role of lncRNAs in keratinocyte-derived skin cancers is emerging, especially in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), which presents a significant burden to health care services worldwide and causes high mortality as metastatic disease. Elucidation of the functions of keratinocyte-specific lncRNAs will improve understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of epidermal disorders and skin cancers and can be exploited in development of new diagnostic and therapeutic applications for keratinocyte carcinomas. In this review, we summarize the current evidence of functionally important lncRNAs in cutaneous biology and in keratinocyte carcinomas.
Tumorvakzinierung – therapeutische Vakzinierung gegen Krebs
Authors: Rammensee H.-G. , Löffler M. W. , Walz J. S. , Bokemeyer C. , Haen S. P. , Gouttefangeas C.
Published: May 2020

Tumorzellen weisen immer Veränderungen im Vergleich zu normalen Zellen auf. Die Veränderungen können vom Immunsystem erkannt werden, was zur Zerstörung der Tumorzellen durch T‑Zellen führen kann. Der Erfolg der Immuncheckpointinhibition beispielsweise beim malignen Melanom hat dies eindrucksvoll gezeigt. Viele Tumorerkrankungen sprechen jedoch nicht auf eine solche Therapie an. Hier könnte eine Vakzinierung gegen Tumorantigene hilfreich sein. Allerdings waren alle Bestrebungen in den letzten 30 Jahren praktisch erfolglos. Mit den heutigen Kenntnissen besteht jedoch neue Hoffnung.
Correction to: Comparison of two reinforcement rings for primary total hip arthroplasty addressing displaced acetabular fractures: a biomechanical analysis
Authors: Becker Johannes , Winkler M. , von Rüden C. , Bliven E. , Augat P. , Resch H.
Published: May 2020

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake.
PHANTOM: Curating GitHub for engineered software projects using time-series clustering
Authors: Pickerill Peter , Jungen Heiko Joshua , Ochodek Mirosław , Maćkowiak Michał , Staron Miroslaw
Published: May 2020

Context

Within the field of Mining Software Repositories, there are numerous methods employed to filter datasets in order to avoid analysing low-quality projects. Unfortunately, the existing filtering methods have not kept up with the growth of existing data sources, such as GitHub, and researchers often rely on quick and dirty techniques to curate datasets.

Objective

The objective of this study is to develop a method capable of filtering large quantities of software projects in a resource-efficient way.

Method

This study follows the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology. The proposed method, PHANTOM, extracts five measures from Git logs. Each measure is transformed into a time-series, which is represented as a feature vector for clustering using the k-means algorithm.

Results

Using the ground truth from a previous study, PHANTOM was shown to be able to rediscover the ground truth on the training dataset, and was able to identify “engineered” projects with up to 0.87 Precision and 0.94 Recall on the validation dataset. PHANTOM downloaded and processed the metadata of 1,786,601 GitHub repositories in 21.5 days using a single personal computer, which is over 33% faster than the previous study which used a computer cluster of 200 nodes. The possibility of applying the method outside of the open-source community was investigated by curating 100 repositories owned by two companies.

Conclusions

It is possible to use an unsupervised approach to identify engineered projects. PHANTOM was shown to be competitive compared to the existing supervised approaches while reducing the hardware requirements by two orders of magnitude.
Orthodontic radiology: development of a clinical practice guideline
Authors: Kapetanović Aldin , Oosterkamp Barbara C. M. , Lamberts Antoon A. , Schols Jan G. J. H.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Radiographs are considered essential in orthodontics. However, their diagnostic value and indications for use are still uncertain, while exposure to radiation carries health risks. This study aimed to report on the development of a clinical practice guideline on orthodontic radiology.

Methods

A Guideline Development Taskforce was set up. The GRADE methodology was used for development and the RIGHT Statement for reporting of the guideline. We systematically reviewed articles to address the main clinical question: how different types of radiographs contribute to orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning and post-treatment outcome evaluation. After a literature search and data extraction, we formulated conclusions and assessed the strength of the evidence according to the GRADE method. Both literature conclusions and the most important considerations, such as patient preferences, organizational matters and expert opinions were taken into account to finally issue recommendations.

Results

7 clinical questions focused on orthopantomograms, lateral cephalograms, hand-wrist radiographs, peri-apical radiographs, bitewings, antero-occlusal radiographs, and cone-beam computer tomographic imaging. The literature search lead to 484 unique studies, of which 17 were included in the analysis. The strength of evidence of the conclusions was graded low or very low. We formulated considerations and took them into account when issuing the 13 clinical recommendations to address the clinical questions.

Conclusions

There was a considerable lack of scientific evidence on this topic. Nonetheless, this guideline provides clinicians with a tool for decision-making regarding radiographic records while enhancing patient radiation protection. More research of higher quality is recommended for a future update.
Revolutions in treatment options in gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs): the latest updates
Authors: Farag Sheima , Smith Myles J. , Fotiadis Nicos , Constantinidou Anastasia , Jones Robin L.
Published: May 2020

Opinion statement

The treatment of advanced GIST is rapidly evolving with the development of novel molecular compounds such as avapritinib and ripretinib, but also promising results have been achieved with cabozantinib in a phase II trial. The availability of over five lines of treatment for patients with advanced GIST is likely to completely shift the current second-line and third-line treatment options, and will also potentially enable a personalised approach to treatment. Imatinib will most likely remain as the first-line treatment of choice for the vast majority of GIST patients. However, for GIST patients with tumours harbouring a D842V mutation in PDGFRA exon 18, avapritinib has shown efficacy and will become first-line therapy for this molecular subgroup. For second- and third-line treatment, results are awaited of a number of clinical trials. However, second-line and further treatment could potentially be tailored depending on secondary mutations found in imatinib-resistant GISTs. As secondary resistance to TKIs remains the biggest challenge in the treatment of GIST and despite negative results with alternating regimens in phase II, combination treatments should be further evaluated to tackle this issue. Moreover, the favourable safety profiles observed with avapritinib and ripretinib suggest that combination treatments are feasible, for instance, combining two TKIs or a TKI with drugs targeting downstream signalling pathways, such as PI3K inhibitors or MEK inhibitors. Finally, in line with further personalisation of treatment in GIST, a multidisciplinary approach is essential, and local treatment options, such as RFA, resection in case of unifocal progression, and radiotherapy, should be considered.
Jeffrey’s insights: Jeffrey Modell Foundation’s global genetic sequencing pilot program to identify specific primary immunodeficiency defects to optimize disease management and treatment
Authors: Quinn Jessica , Modell Vicki , Holle Jennifer , Truty Rebecca , Aradhya Swaroop , Johnson Britt , Orange Jordan , Modell Fred
Published: May 2020

Primary immunodeficiencies (PI) are genetic defects of the immune system that result in chronic and often life-threatening infections and/or life-threatening autoimmunity if not diagnosed and treated. Patients with a suspected PI, but without a genetic diagnosis, commonly undergo a diagnostic odyssey that is costly, time-consuming, and arduous. This delay in diagnosis prevents appropriate disease management and treatment, contributing to prolonged suffering and decreased quality of life. Although next generation sequencing (NGS) can provide these patients with relief from such a diagnostic odyssey, it is often unavailable, mainly due to cost and inaccessibility. In January 2019, the Jeffrey Modell Foundation (JMF) launched a free genetic sequencing pilot program for Jeffrey Modell Centers Network (JMCN) patients clinically diagnosed with an underlying PI. A total of 21 sites within the JMCN were invited to participate. JMF collaborated with Invitae, and testing was comprised of Invitae’s Primary Immunodeficiency Panel, which currently includes 207 genes. A questionnaire was disseminated to each participating physician to evaluate barriers to access to genetic sequencing and changes in disease management and treatment after testing. One hundred fifty-eight patients and 29 family members were tested in this pilot study. Twenty-one percent of patients with a suspected monogenic disorder received a molecular diagnosis, and others received potentially useful diagnostic leads. Based on the results of genetic sequencing, clinical diagnosis was altered in 45% of patients, disease management was altered in 40%, treatment was altered in 36%, and genetic counseling was altered in 62%. The results of this pilot program demonstrate the utility, cost-efficiency, and critical importance of NGS for PI and make the case for broad scale sequence–based diagnostics for PI patients when requested by expert immunologists.
Supera Stent for Management of Occlusive Popliteal Artery Disease: an Indian Experience
Authors: Dalai Sibasankar , Narayana R. V. , Pati Rajesh , Kadali Mrudula , Mazumdar Alok , Akkina Narendranadh , Panda Samir Kumar
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Popliteal artery occlusion is common in elderly, smokers, and patients with diabetes, with globally rising incidence. Angioplasty and stenting are common treatment options available to manage lower limb occlusive diseases. As popliteal artery experiences high biomechanical stress, Supera stent is designed to reduce the risk of stent fractures and for better patency across the knee joint.

Aim & Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate the Supera stent in the management of popliteal artery occlusive disease. The objectives of this study are (1) to evaluate the efficacy of Supera stent in the management of popliteal artery occlusive disease and (2) to prove it as a relatively safe to use option.

Material & Methods

Patients who underwent stent implantation in popliteal artery were analyzed with regular/serial follow-up. Critical limb ischemia and intermittent claudication patients were included. Medical records, radiographs, and procedural data were examined. The patients were classified according to Trans-Atlantic Inter Society Consensus II criteria. The femoropopliteal lesions which were classified into TASC B and C categories were included in the study. Stents of 5 mm and 5.5 mm diameter and with various lengths were used to treat all the patients.

Results

A total number of patients with tissue loss and rest pain analyzed were eighty-six and all of them were treated by implanting stents in popliteal artery. In 71.4% of cases, the lesions were found in the proximal segment of the artery. In nearly 95% of cases, technical success was achieved with the use of single stent. The primary and assisted primary patency rates at 24 months were found to be 86.04% and 95.34%, respectively. Notwithstanding the stent placement at a region of high biomechanical stress, there was no case of stent fracture. The limb salvage rate was 100%. The patients who died due to unrelated causes within 90 days of procedure were two.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that Supera stent is a safe and effective procedure for treating claudication and limb ischemia due to popliteal artery disease.
The molecular analysis of four coexistent mutations in additional sex combs like 1 (ASXL1) gene in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Leszczyńska Aleksandra , Prejzner Witold , Grzenkowicz-Wydra Jolanta , Bieniaszewska Maria , Zaucha Jan Maciej
Published: May 2020

Mutations in the additional sex combs like 1 (ASXL1) gene are frequently involved in clonal hematopoiesis and are connected with an increased risk of hematologic cancer. These aberrations are frequently detected in a number of different hematological neoplasms including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients harboring ASXL1 mutations tend to have a poor prognosis and poor response to therapy. Here, we report the coexistence of four different mutations in ASXL1 gene in a patient with AML. Such accumulation of mutations, in this gene, has not been described yet. Our findings suggest that accumulations of mutations in ASXL1 gene may play an important role in the development and/or progression of AML.
Impact of Processing Factors on Quality of Frozen Vegetables and Fruits
Authors: van der Sman R. G. M.
Published: May 2020

In this paper I review the production of frozen vegetables and fruits from a chain perspective. I argue that the final quality of the frozen product still can be improved via (a) optimization of the complete existing production chain towards quality, and/or (b) introduction of some promising novel processing technology. For this optimization, knowledge is required how all processing steps impact the final quality. Hence, first I review physicochemical and biochemical processes underlying the final quality, such as water holding capacity, ice crystal growth and mechanical damage. Subsequently, I review how each individual processing step impacts the final quality via these fundamental physicochemical and biochemical processes. In this review of processing steps, I also review the potential of novel processing technologies. The results of our literature review are summarized via a causal network, linking processing steps, fundamental physicochemical and biochemical processes, and their correlation with final product quality. I conclude that there is room for optimization of the current production chains via matching processing times with time scales of the fundamental physicochemical and biochemical processes. Regarding novel processing technology, it is concluded in general that they are difficult to implement in the context of existing production chains. I do see the potential for novel processing technology combined with process intensification, incorporating the blanching pretreatment—but which involves quite a change of the production chain.
Mental rotation and performance in basketball: effects of self-controlled and externally controlled time constraints on the processing and execution of tactic board instructions with varied orientations
Authors: Krause Daniel , Weigelt Matthias
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In sports games, tactical instructions are mostly presented on tactic boards under temporal constraints determined by the length of time outs (e.g., 20–60 s time outs in basketball) and coaches’ instructional behavior. Thus, instructions should be presented in a way that enables fast and errorless information processing. High affordances in visual–spatial transformation (e.g., mental rotation processes) might both impede information processing and decrease execution performance. The aim of this study was to scrutinize the effect of different orientations of visual tactical displays on observation time under self-paced conditions as well as to compare the effects on execution performance to those of externally paced conditions. According to the self-determination theory, self-control over observation time is assumed to increase performance.

Methods

In a mixed-factors design with two factors, 48 participants were instructed to execute a basketball playing pattern, which was presented on a virtual tactic board in one of five different spatial disparities to the players’ on-court perspective. The Self-Paced Group determined the observation time in a self-controlled manner, whereas in the Yoked Group observation times were externally controlled, i.e., the observation time was constrained to match that of the Self-Paced Group..

Results

The self-controlled time for watching the pattern before execution was significantly shorter and spatial accuracy in pattern execution was significantly higher for low disparity between instruction perspective and on-court perspective. Self-control over observation time did not affect execution accuracy.

Conclusion

The orientation effects might be explained by interfering mental rotation processes that are necessary to transform the instructional perspective into the players’ egocentric perspective. According to these results, coaches should align their tactic boards to their players’ on-court viewing perspective.
Mechanochemical synthesis of nanophotocatalysts SiO2/TiO2/Fe2O3: their structural, thermal and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Kucio Karolina , Charmas Barbara , Pasieczna-Patkowska Sylwia , Zięzio Magdalena
Published: May 2020

In the study the mechanochemical synthesis was used to prepare photocatalytic materials based on TiO2, SiO2, and Fe2O3. During the preparation the impact of composition, milling speed, and calcination process on the properties of the composites was investigated. The structural and thermal properties of photocatalysts were determined using the N2 adsorption/desorption, XRD, and FT-IR/PAS methods. The thermal stability of the obtained materials was also examined (TG/DTG). Moreover, their photocatalytic activity was tested in relation to Methylene Blue at UV and Vis radiation. The results indicate that the mechanochemical synthesis in the high-energy planetary mill is an effective method for obtaining materials with photocatalytic properties at the UV and Vis radiation. It was shown that the removal process of MB may be described by the pseudo-first-order kinetics.
Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacterales in stool surveillance cultures of preterm infants are no risk factor for necrotizing enterocolitis: a retrospective case–control study over 12 years
Authors: Eberhart Martin , Grisold Andrea , Lavorato Michela , Resch Elisabeth , Trobisch Andreas , Resch Bernhard
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Microbial dysbiosis has been found preceding necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants; thus, we aimed to investigate whether there is evidence that neonates with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E) positive stool cultures are at higher risk for NEC at the NICU.

Methods

We included very preterm inborn infants of ≤ 32 weeks of gestational age being fecal carriers of ESBL-E and compared them with 1:1 matched (gestational age, birth weight, gender and year) controls tested negative for ESBL-E in the stool between 2005 and 2016. An association with NEC was defined as the first detection of ESBL-E before or at the time of definite diagnosis of NEC.

Results

During the study period, we diagnosed 217 infants with a total of 270 ESBL-E. We identified ten different species with ESBL-producingKlebsiella oxytocabeing the most common one (46%) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (19%), andCitrobacter freundii(17%). Ten out of 217 infants had any kind of NEC in the case group compared to two of the controls (p < 0.01), but only four cases with predefined criteria were associated with NEC ≥ stage IIa (1.8 vs. 0.5%,p = 0.089, OR 4.1, CI95% 0.45–36.6). NEC mortality rate was 2/8 (25%).

Conclusions

We observed a threefold increase of ESBL-E in stool surveillance cultures during study time and germs were dominated by ESBL-producing Klebsiella spp. There was no evidence that preterm infants colonized with ESBL-E in the stool were at higher risk for definite NEC.
Capital Market Equilibrium With Imperfect Competition: The Case of the ECB’s Asset Purchase Programme
Authors: Koziol Christian , Neus Werner
Published: May 2020

We set up a multiperiod, CAPM-type model with imperfect competition between investors in case of an additional price-insensitive market participant. The motivation for this additional actor comes from the ECB’s announcement to buy a substantial amount of securities “whatever it takes” which reflects the willingness to trade in a entirely price-inelastic way. Our model explains the effects on demand functions, equilibrium prices, portfolio holdings and investors’ expected utility. The interaction of price-inelastic additional demand by the ECB, on the one hand, and imperfect competition, on the other hand, causes differentiated results regarding timing strategies, development of prices over time, and utility implications.
Is there a silver bullet to stop cybercrime?
Authors: Richardson James
Published: May 2020

While the benefits of the latest mobile devices, smart capabilities or automated processes can't be disputed, the need to be constantly vigilant goes hand-in-hand with them.

This is especially true for businesses and banks, pressured by tech-savvy vendors and customers to adopt the latest payment methods. Fraud continues to be a top concern, and dealing with it is a constant battle. However, with the right mix of fraud controls and resources, there is a way to gain the advantage, says James Richardson of Bottomline Technologies.

As we embark on the new decade, the growth of technological advancements and innovations continues to accelerate. Not surprisingly, the impact and influence that technology has on our personal and professional lives deepens and expands accordingly. But while the quantitative and qualitative benefits of the latest mobile device, smart capability or automated process can't be disputed, the need to be constantly vigilant goes hand-in-hand.
The Many, the Wise, and the Marginalized: The Endoxic Method andThe Second Sex
Authors: Lakey Heather
Published: May 2020

In this article, I propose that Simone de Beauvoir'sThe Second Sexinstantiates a version of the endoxic method, a philosophical strategy practiced originally by Aristotle. After summarizing the methodological principles and the philosophical benefits of Aristotle's method, I argue that Beauvoir improves upon Aristotle's endoxic practice through her heightened focus on theendoxaof minority groups, in this case women. Despite this improvement, Beauvoir replicates some of Aristotle's mistakes with her exclusive focus on the experiences of white French women. I address problems of epistemological bias that arise with the endoxic method, and I hypothesize strategies to manage these biases. I conclude that the endoxic method offers a promising resource for feminist philosophers if we retrofit the method to include an intersectional lens and a practice of epistemic humility. My reading of the endoxic method complements feminist scholarship that readsThe Second Sexas a phenomenological investigation. Thus, I suggest that future research exploring the relationship between the endoxic method and phenomenology could generate important insights regarding feminist methodologies and social activism.
Phenomenological characteristics and explanations of unusual perceptual experiences, thoughts and beliefs in a population sample of early adolescents
Authors: Coughlan H. , Healy C. , Humphries N. , Clarke M. , Kelleher I. , Cannon M.
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

Often referred to as psychotic experiences, unusual perceptual experiences, thoughts and beliefs (UPTBs) are not uncommon in youth populations. Phenomenological studies of these experiences are lacking. This study aimed to (1) describe the phenomenological characteristics of UPTBs in a sample of young adolescents and (2) explore how young people made sense of those experiences.

Methods:

Participants were 53 young people aged 11–13 years from a population-based study of mental health. All met criteria for UPTBs following clinical interviews as part of the study. Documentary data on UPTBs in the form of transcribed notes, recorded during clinical interviews, were analysed using content analysis. Data on UPTBs were coded, organised into categorical themes and quantified using descriptive statistics. Qualitative themes on how participants made sense of their experiences were identified.

Results:

Participants reported UPTBs across four domains: auditory verbal, auditory non-verbal, non-auditory perceptual experiences and unusual thoughts and beliefs. UPTBs were phenomenologically rich and diverse. Young people sought to make sense of their experiences in multiple ways: normalising them, externalising them by attributing them to paranormal entities and distancing them from psychiatric explanations. Uncertainty about the source of UPTBs was identified as a superordinate theme.

Conclusion:

Findings from this study offer new insights into the phenomenological qualities and characteristics of UPTBs in young adolescents. They also reveal that early adolescents may not make sense of their experiences within a psychiatric framework. These findings highlight the need to develop a more phenomenologically sensitive and nuanced approach to studying UPTBs in young people.
Mental health impacts of COVID-19 in Ireland and the need for a secondary care mental health service response
Authors: O’Connor Karen , Wrigley Margo , Jennings Rhona , Hill Michele , Niazi Amir
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health emergency, the scale, speed and nature of which is beyond anything most of us have experienced in our lifetimes. The mental health burden associated with this pandemic is also likely to surpass anything we have previously experienced. In this editorial, we seek to anticipate the nature of this additional mental health burden and make recommendations on how to mitigate against and prepare for this significant increase in mental health service demand.
Angle of repose experiments with snow: role of grain shape and cohesion
Authors: Willibald Carolin , Löwe Henning , Theile Thiemo , Dual Jürg , Schneebeli Martin
Published: May 2020

Snow appears as a granular material in most engineering applications. We examined the role of grain shape and cohesion in angle of repose experiments, which are a common means for the characterization of granular materials. The role of shape was examined by investigating diverse snow types with discernable shape and spherical ice beads. Two geometrical shape parameters were calculated from X-ray micro-computed-tomography images after a particle segmentation was performed with a watershed algorithm. Cohesion was examined by conducting experiments at six different temperatures between −40 and −2°C, assuming sintering as its cause, which accelerates with increasing temperature. As a cohesionless reference, experiments with glass beads were performed. We found that both shape and cohesion exerted about equally strong influence on the angle of repose. We utilized our results for an empirical model that describes the influence of shape and cohesion as additive corrections of the angle of repose of cohesionless spheres and explains all experiments with a correlation coefficient r2 = 0.95. With temperature and the chosen shape parameter as fitting variables, previous experiments with another snow type could be consistently included. The experiments highlight the relevance of these parameters in granular snow mechanics and can be used for model calibration.
Dynamic Collision Avoidance Algorithm for Unmanned Surface Vehicles via Layered Artificial Potential Field with Collision Cone
Authors: Xu Xinli , Pan Wei , Huang Yubo , Zhang Weidong
Published: May 2020

A dynamic collision avoidance algorithm via layered artificial potential field with collision cone (LAPF-CC) is proposed to overcome the shortcomings of the traditional artificial potential field method in dynamic collision avoidance. In order to reduce invalid actions for collision avoidance, the potential field is divided into four layers, and a collision cone with risk detection function is introduced. Relative distance and relative velocity are used as variables to establish the risk of collision, and a torque named ‘speed torque’ is constructed. Speed torque, attractive force and repulsive force work together to change the speed and heading of the unmanned surface vehicle (USV). Driving force and torque are controlled separately, which makes it possible for the LAPF-CC algorithm to be used for real-time collision avoidance control of underactuated USVs. Simulation results show that the LAPF-CC algorithm performs well in dynamic collision avoidance.
Total pattern analyses for non-crystalline materials
Authors: Fawcett T. G. , Gates-Rector S. , Gindhart A. M. , Rost M. , Kabekkodu S. N. , Blanton J. R. , Blanton T. N.
Published: May 2020

A total pattern analysis suite of programs has been developed and incorporated into the ICDD®PDF-4 database. While the suite of programs is intended for the analysis of any diffraction pattern, particular attention was focused on the analysis of common amorphous, non-crystalline, or partially crystalline materials found in minerals, polymers, and pharmaceuticals. The suite of programs directly interfaces to the ICDD database and libraries of non-crystalline references.
Patterns of Cognitive Test Scores and Symptom Complaints in Persons with TBI Who Failed Performance Validity Testing
Authors: Sherer Mark , Sander Angelle M. , Ponsford Jennie , Vos Leia , Poritz Julia M.P. , Ngan Esther , Leon Novelo Luis
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To determine clinically meaningful subgroups of persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) who have failed performance validity testing.

Method:

Study participants were selected from a cohort of 674 participants with definitive medical evidence of TBI. Participants were those who failed performance validity testing (the Word Memory Test, using the standard cutoffs). Participants were administered cognitive tests and self-report questionnaires. Test and questionnaire results were summarized as 12 dimension scores. Cluster analysis using the k-means method was performed.

Results:

Cluster analysis for the 143 retained participants indicated three subgroups. These subgroups differed on patterns of scores. Subgroup 1 was impaired for memory and had no excessive complaints. Subgroup 2 had impaired memory and processing speed as well as concern regarding cognition function. Subgroup 3 showed impairment on all cognitive tests and excess complaints in multiple areas.

Conclusions:

These results provide a preliminary basis for improved understanding of poor performance validity.
Is There a Functional Relation Between Set Shifting and Hyperactivity in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Authors: Irwin Lauren N. , Groves Nicole B. , Soto Elia F. , Kofler Michael J.
Published: May 2020

Objective:

Replicated evidence indicates that children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) show disproportionate increases in hyperactivity/physical movement when their underdeveloped executive functions are taxed. However, our understanding of hyperactivity’s relation with set shifting is limited, which is surprising given set shifting’s importance as the third core executive function alongside working memory and inhibition. The aim of this study was to experimentally examine the effect of imposing set shifting and inhibition demands on objectively measured activity level in children with and without ADHD.

Method:

The current study used a validated experimental manipulation to differentially evoke set shifting, inhibition, and general cognitive demands in a carefully phenotyped sample of children aged 8–13 years with ADHD (n = 43) and without ADHD (n = 34). Activity level was sampled during each task using multiple, high-precision actigraphs; total hyperactivity scores (THS) were calculated.

Results:

Results of the 2 × 5 Bayesian ANOVA for hyperactivity revealed strong support for a main effect of task (BF10 = 1.79 × 1018, p < .001, ω2 = .20), such that children upregulated their physical movement in response to general cognitive demands and set shifting demands specifically, but not in response to increased inhibition demands. Importantly, however, this manipulation did not disproportionally increase hyperactivity in ADHD as demonstrated by significant evidence against the task × group interaction (BF01 = 18.21, p = .48, ω2 = .002).

Conclusions:

Inhibition demands do not cause children to upregulate their physical activity. Set shifting produces reliable increases in children’s physical movement/hyperactivity over and above the effects of general cognitive demands but cannot specifically explain hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
Food insecurity and psychological distress in Inuit adolescents of Nunavik
Authors: Bradette-Laplante Maude , Courtemanche Yohann , Desrochers-Couture Mireille , Forget-Dubois Nadine , Bélanger Richard E , Ayotte Pierre , Jacobson Joseph L , Jacobson Sandra W , Muckle Gina
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The present study aims at measuring the association between household food insecurity and psychological distress in adolescents in Inuit communities, concurrently and overtime from childhood to adolescence.

Design:

The study used measures of internalising behaviours (anxiety, withdrawn attitude, somatic complaints and depression) as indicators of psychological distress during adolescence, a concurrent measure of household food insecurity in adolescence and an assessment of longitudinal patterns of household food insecurity from childhood to adolescence. We collected descriptive information at birth, childhood and adolescence on potential confounders.

Setting:

Inuit communities of Nunavik in northern Quebec, Canada

Participants:

The study consisted of 212 participants from the Nunavik Child Development Study, who have been assessed at birth, childhood (mean age = 11 years, range = 9–13 years) and adolescence (mean age = 18 years, range = 16–21 years).

Results:

Concurrent severe household food insecurity in adolescence was associated with higher measures of psychological distress: depression (βstd = 0·26, P < 0·01) and withdrawn attitude (βstd = 0·20, P = 0·04). Persistent household food insecurity (both at childhood and adolescence) was associated with higher levels of adolescent depression (βstd = 0·18, P = 0·02) and anxiety (βstd = 0·17, P = 0·03).

Conclusions:

Adolescents from Nunavik living with higher food insecurity and those having experienced food insecurity in both childhood and adolescence were more likely to report symptoms of psychological distress. Considering the high level of distress experienced by young Inuit, existing initiatives to reduce food insecurity in Nunavik communities should be targeted to include children and adolescents.
Die körperdysmorphe Störung – Gratwanderung zwischen Schön­heitswahn und Erkrankung
Authors: Grünherz Lisanne , Wang Anna , Lindenblatt Nicole
Published: May 2020

Zusammenfassung. Die körperdysmorphe Störung (KDS) zählt zu den somatoformen Störungen und ist durch ein übermäs­siges Beschäftigen mit einem oder mehreren wahrgenommenen «Schönheitsmakeln» gekennzeichnet. Typischerweise liegt der Fokus auf dem Gesichtsbereich, beispielsweise der Hautbeschaffenheit oder der Form von Gesichtsteilen. Neben charakteristischen Verhaltensweisen, wie einem ständigen Kontrollieren des Defektes im Spiegel, erzeugt die Erkrankung einen hohen Leidensdruck bei den Betroffenen, welcher nicht selten mit einem sozialen Rückzug einhergeht. Im Patienten- klientel des Plastischen Chirurgen hat das Erkrankungsbild mit einer Prävalenz von bis zu 20 % eine hohe Bedeutung, zumal Operationen mit einer Zunahme der Beschwerden einhergehen können. Wir empfehlen daher, Patienten, welche einen plastisch-ästhetischen Eingriff wünschen, ­während der Anamnese im Hinblick auf die typischen Symptome und Verhaltensweisen zu beobachten und einzelne Fragen aus den bekannten Screening-Fragebögen in das Gespräch einfliessen zu lassen, um die die Erkrankung rechtzeitig zu erkennen.
p190A inactivating mutations cause aberrant RhoA activation and promote malignant transformation via the Hippo-YAP pathway in endometrial cancer
Authors: Wen Xiaoli , Wan Jing , He Qizhi , Wang Mengfei , Li Shuangdi , Jiang Mei , Qian Zhen , Liu Binya , Lu Wen , Wang Kai , Gao Kun , Wan Xiaoping
Published: May 2020

The Rho family of GTPases is strictly regulated by a large family of GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) that stimulate the relatively weak intrinsic GTP-hydrolyzing activity of Rho GTPases. p190A is a potent and widely expressed GAP that acts on RhoA GTPases. p190A is frequently mutated in endometrial cancer, but the contribution of p190A mutations to endometrial tumorigenesis remains unclear. Here we identified that p190A is an upstream regulator of the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway, which is a critical regulator of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell fate. p190A knockout in endometrial cancer cells promoted cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), which were partially dependent on YAP activation. Wild-type p190A, but not endometrial cancer-associated mutants, suppressed the nuclear localization, transcriptional activity, and malignant transformation function of YAP. Moreover, the nuclear localization of YAP was enhanced in p190A-mutated endometrial cancer. These findings reveal novel molecular mechanisms underlying Hippo-YAP pathway-driven endometrial tumorigenesis and elucidate the potential for therapy targeting the Hippo-YAP pathway in p190A-mutated endometrial cancer.
Analysis of a cohort of 279 patients with hairy-cell leukemia (HCL): 10 years of follow-up
Authors: Paillassa Jerome , Cornet Edouard , Noel Stephanie , Tomowiak Cecile , Lepretre Stephane , Vaudaux Sandrine , Dupuis Jehan , Devidas Alain , Joly Bertrand , Petitdidier-Lionnet Charlotte , Haiat Stephanie , Mariette Clara , Thieblemont Catherine , Decaudin Didier , Validire-Charpy Patricia , Drenou Bernard , Eisenmann Jean-Claude , Uribe Mario Ojeda , Olivrie Agnès , Touati Mohamed , Lambotte Olivier , Hermine Olivier , Karsenti Jean-Michel , Feugier Pierre , Vaillant Willy , Gutnecht Jean , Lippert Eric , Huysman Fabienne , Ghomari Kamel , Boubaya Marouane , Levy Vincent , Riou Jeremie , Damaj Gandhi , Tanguy-Schmidt Aline , Hunault-Berger Mathilde , Troussard Xavier
Published: May 2020

In total, 279 patients with hairy-cell leukemia (HCL) were analyzed, with a median follow-up of 10 years. Data were collected up to June 2018. We analyzed responses to treatment, relapses, survival, and the occurrence of second malignancies during follow-up. The median age was 59 years. In total, 208 patients (75%) were treated with purine analogs (PNAs), either cladribine (159) or pentosatin (49), as the first-line therapy. After a median follow-up of 127 months, the median overall survival was 27 years, and the median relapse-free survival (RFS) was 11 years. The cumulative 10-year relapse incidence was 39%. In patients receiving second-line therapy, the median RFS was 7 years. For the second-line therapy, using the same or another PNA was equivalent. We identified 68 second malignancies in 59 patients: 49 solid cancers and 19 hematological malignancies. The 10-year cumulative incidences of cancers, solid tumors, and hematological malignancies were 15%, 11%, and 5.0%, respectively, and the standardized incidence ratios were 2.22, 1.81, and 6.67, respectively. In multivariate analysis, PNA was not a risk factor for second malignancies. HCL patients have a good long-term prognosis. PNAs are the first-line treatment. HCL patients require long-term follow-up because of their relatively increased risk of second malignancies.
Ab initio phase diagram and nucleation of gallium
Authors: Niu Haiyang , Bonati Luigi , Piaggi Pablo M. , Parrinello Michele
Published: May 2020

Elemental gallium possesses several intriguing properties, such as a low melting point, a density anomaly and an electronic structure in which covalent and metallic features coexist. In order to simulate this complex system, we construct an ab initio quality interaction potential by training a neural network on a set of density functional theory calculations performed on configurations generated in multithermal–multibaric simulations. Here we show that the relative equilibrium between liquid gallium, α-Ga, β-Ga, and Ga-II is well described. The resulting phase diagram is in agreement with the experimental findings. The local structure of liquid gallium and its nucleation into α-Ga and β-Ga are studied. We find that the formation of metastable β-Ga is kinetically favored over the thermodinamically stable α-Ga. Finally, we provide insight into the experimental observations of extreme undercooling of liquid Ga.
High-resolution annotation of the mouse preimplantation embryo transcriptome using long-read sequencing
Authors: Qiao Yunbo , Ren Chao , Huang Shisheng , Yuan Jie , Liu Xingchen , Fan Jiao , Lin Jianxiang , Wu Susu , Chen Qiuzhen , Bo Xiaochen , Li Xiangyang , Huang Xingxu , Liu Zhen , Shu Wenjie
Published: May 2020

The transcriptome of the preimplantation mouse embryo has been previously annotated by short-read sequencing, with limited coverage and accuracy. Here we utilize a low-cell number transcriptome based on the Smart-seq2 method to perform long-read sequencing. Our analysis describes additional novel transcripts and complexity of the preimplantation transcriptome, identifying 2280 potential novel transcripts from previously unannotated loci and 6289 novel splicing isoforms from previously annotated genes. Notably, these novel transcripts and isoforms with transcription start sites are enriched for an active promoter modification, H3K4me3. Moreover, we generate a more complete and precise transcriptome by combining long-read and short-read data during early embryogenesis. Based on this approach, we identify a previously undescribed isoform of Kdm4dl with a modified mRNA reading frame and a novel noncoding gene designated XLOC_004958. Depletion of Kdm4dl or XLOC_004958 led to abnormal blastocyst development. Thus, our data provide a high-resolution and more precise transcriptome during preimplantation mouse embryogenesis.
Perfect short-range ordered alloy with line-compound-like properties in the ZnSnN2:ZnO system
Authors: Pan Jie , Cordell Jacob J. , Tucker Garritt J. , Zakutayev Andriy , Tamboli Adele C. , Lany Stephan
Published: May 2020

We present a new solid-state material phase which is a disordered solid solution but offers many ordered line-compound features. The emergent physical phenomena are rooted in the perfect short-range order which conserves the local octet rule. We model the dual-sublattice-mixed semiconductor alloy $${\mathrm{(ZnSnN}}_{\mathrm{2}}{\mathrm{)}}_{1 - x}{\mathrm{(ZnO)}}_{2x}$$

(ZnSnN

2

)

1
−
x

(ZnO)

2
x

using first-principles calculations, Monte-Carlo simulations with a model Hamiltonian, and an extension of the regular solution model by incorporating short-range order. We demonstrate that this unique solid solution, occurring at a “magic” composition, can provide an electronically pristine character without disorder-induced charge localization and, therefore, a superior carrier transport similar to ordered phases. Interestingly, this phase shows singularities that are absent in the conventional solid-solution models, such as the regular solution and band-gap bowing model. Thermodynamically, this alloy phase has a sharply reduced enthalpy at its composition (like a line compound), but it still requires the entropy from long-range disorder to be stabilized at experimentally accessible temperatures.
Caveolar communication with xenobiotic-stalled ribosomes compromises gut barrier integrity
Authors: Park Seong-Hwan , Kim Juil , Moon Yuseok
Published: May 2020

In response to internal and external insults, the intestinal lining undergoes various types of epithelial adaptation or pathologic distress via stress-responsive eIF2α kinase signaling and subsequent cellular reprogramming. As a vital platform for growth factor-linked adaptive signaling, caveolae were evaluated for epithelial modulation of the insulted gut. Patients under ulcerative insult displayed enhanced expression of caveolin-1, the main structural component of caveolae, which was positively associated with expression of protein kinase R (PKR), the ribosomal stress-responsive eIF2α kinase. PKR-linked biological responses were simulated in experimental gut models of ribosome-inactivating stress using mice and Caenorhabditis elegans. Caveolar activation counteracted the expression of wound-protective epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its target genes, such as chemokines that were pivotal for epithelial integrity in the ribosome-inactivated gut. Mechanistic findings regarding ribosomal inactivation-associated disorders in the gut barrier provide crucial molecular evidence for detrimental caveolar actions against EGFR-mediated epithelial protection in patients with IBD.
The longer the worse: a combined proteomic and targeted study of the long-termversusshort-term effects of silver nanoparticles on macrophages
Authors: Dalzon Bastien , Aude-Garcia Catherine , Diemer Hélène , Bons Joanna , Marie-Desvergne Caroline , Pérard Julien , Dubosson Muriel , Collin-Faure Véronique , Carapito Christine , Cianférani Sarah , Carrière Marie , Rabilloud Thierry
Published: May 2020

At equal cumulated dose, a chronic exposure to silver nanoparticles produces more effects on macrophages than an acute exposure.
Insights into the production of extracellular polymeric substances of Cupriavidus pauculus 1490 under the stimulation of heavy metal ions
Authors: Zeng Weimin , Zhang Shishi , Xia Mingchen , Wu Xueling , Qiu Guanzhou , Shen Li
Published: May 2020

Metal ions are shown to stimulate the secretion of EPS components of Cupriavidus pauculus 1490, especially Cd(II).