bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical fragility curves for masonry school building portfolios in Nepal
Authors: Giordano Nicola , De Luca Flavia , Sextos Anastasios
Published: November 2020

Schools represent a reference point for communities in any part of the world. Therefore, their safety and resilience against natural catastrophes is of paramount importance. The recent 2015 Gorkha earthquake has unfortunately shown that Nepalese school buildings are highly vulnerable to seismic actions. Most of them are indeed constituted by low-quality unreinforced masonry (URM). The quantification of URM vulnerability is fundamental to estimate the risk associated to school building portfolios at territorial scale. This work discusses statistics available for Nepalese schools and then presents analytical fragility curves for three recurrent URM typologies covering more than 50% of the school building stock. The methodology adopted to derive fragilities is spectral-based and accounts for out-of-plane and in-plane damage potential in a single easy-to-use analytical framework. Inter-building, intra-building and record-to-record variabilities are directly considered in the analysis. The obtained fragilities integrate the studies available for the region and can be used for pre-/post-earthquake risk assessment and prioritization of interventions at country level.
EEG Microstates and Psychosocial Stress During an Exchange Year
Authors: Kadier Nursija , Stein Maria , Koenig Thomas
Published: November 2020

The well-known stress vulnerability model of psychosis assumes that psychotic episodes result from the coincidence of individual trait dispositions and triggering stressors. We thus hypothesized that a transient psychosocial stressor would not only increase the number of and stress caused by psychosis-like symptoms (like delusion-like symptoms or auditory hallucinations) in healthy subjects but also elicit changes in EEG microstates that have been related to the presence of psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Considering a radical change of one’s psychosocial environment as a significant stressor, we analyzed psychotic symptoms and EEG microstate data in teenage exchange-students at an early and a later phase of their stay. The subjects experienced a small and transient, but significant increase of stress by psychosis-like symptoms. These changes in mental state were associated with increases in microstate class A, which has previously been related to unspecific stress. microstate classes C and D, which have consistently been found to be altered in patients with psychosis, were found unaffected by the time of the recording and the subjective stress experiences. Therefore, we conclude that microstate class A appears to be a psychosis independent and rather general correlate of psychosocial stress, whereas changes in microstate classes C and D seem to be more specifically tied to the presence of psychotic symptoms.
Mycosphaerangium and Neomelanconium (Cenangiaceae) are closest relatives: phylogenetic relationships, morphology and a new species
Authors: Voglmayr Hermann , Jaklitsch Walter M. , Tello Salvador
Published: November 2020

Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of a multigene matrix of partial nuSSU-ITS-LSU rDNA,RPB1,RPB2andTEF1sequences and by morphological evidence, the genusMycosphaerangiumis shown to be the closest relative ofNeomelanconium, and confirmed to be a member of the Cenangiaceae (Leotiomycetes). WhileMycosphaerangiumandNeomelanconiumshare many traits like similar conidia, conidiogenesis, asci and ascospores, their apothecia differ particularly in excipular features and are therefore recognized as distinct genera.Mycosphaerangium tiliae, described from North America, is excluded from the genus but shown to represent the sexual morph of the EuropeanNeomelanconium gelatosporum, and it is therefore synonymized with the latter. Based on morphology,Neomelanconium deightoniiis assumed to be congeneric withNeomelanconium gelatosporum, and it is lectotypified.Dermatea tetrasporaandPhaeangium magnisporum, the basionyms ofMycosphaerangium tetrasporumandM. magnisporum, respectively, are lectotypified as well, and forM. tetrasporum, the asexual morph is recorded for the first time.Mycosphaerangium quercinumsp. nov. is described as a new species from variousQuercushosts in Europe, where it is shown to be widely distributed. It morphologically and ecologically closely resembles the North AmericanM. tetrasporum, but differs in paraphysis and ascospore morphology and by croziers at its ascus base. The three accepted species ofMycosphaerangiumand the two ofNeomelanconiumare described and illustrated.Mycosphaerangium magnisporum,M. quercinumandM. tetrasporumare recorded to be constantly associated with species ofCoryneum, indicating a fungicolous habit, but no evidence for fungal associations has been found inNeomelanconium deightoniiandN. gelatosporum.
Online cognitive behavioral group therapy (iCBT-I) for insomnia for school children and their parents
Authors: Schlarb Angelika A. , Schulte Hannah , Selbmann Anika , Och Ina
Published: November 2020

Background

Due to the SARS-CoV‑2 crisis, online adaptation of sleep trainings is necessary. As sleep disturbances in school children are common, prevention of chronification is essential. The aim of this study was to adapt an established age-oriented cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) group training for 5–10-year-old children with insomnia and their parents to an online version (group iCBT-I).

Methods

The adaptation procedure and structure of the iCBT‑I are described. To assess acceptance the Online Sleep Treatment Acceptance questionnaire (OSTA) and the Online Sleep Treatment Feedback questionnaire (OSTF) were implemented. In addition, trainers filled in the Adherence and Feasibility Questionnaire for Online Sleep Treatment (AFOST). Sleep problems were assessed using a structured interview for sleep disorders in children and clinical interview, and the Children’s Sleep Habit Questionnaire (CSHQ-DE). Emotional problems were evaluated with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 4-18).

Results

This pilot study included 12 parents and 6 children fulfilling insomnia criteria prior to online training. The adapted online version consisted of three parental sessions, whereas child-oriented sessions were transferred into videoclips. The new group iCBT‑I was well accepted by parents. Parents scored the online version as helpful and time saving based on the OSTA and trainers estimated the adapted version to be feasible and effective. According to AFOST, adherence was given. After training, 67% of children showed reduced sleep problems according to parental rating.

Conclusion

Parental acceptance of a group iCBT‑I for school children and their parents was very good and parents scored the videos for their children as very helpful. Trainers declared the adapted version to be feasible. A further study with a larger sample is necessary.
Photo-Chlorine Production with Hydrothermally Grown and Vacuum-Annealed Nanocrystalline Rutile
Authors: Harris-Lee Thom R. , Zhang Yan , Bowen Christopher R. , Fletcher Philip J. , Zhao Yuanzhu , Guo Zhenyu , Innocent Jerome W. F. , Johnson S. Andrew L. , Marken Frank
Published: November 2020

Photo-generated high-energy surface states can help to produce chlorine in aqueous environments. Here, aligned rutile (TiO2) nanocrystal arrays are grown onto fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates and activated either by hydrothermal Sr/Ba surface doping and/or by vacuum-annealing. With vacuum-annealing, highly photoactive films are obtained with photocurrents of typically 8 mA cm−2 at 1.0 V vs. SCE in 1 M KCl (LED illumination with λ = 385 nm and approx. 100 mW cm−2). Photoelectrochemical chlorine production is demonstrated at proof-of-concept scale in 4 M NaCl and suggested to be linked mainly to the production of Ti(III) surface species by vacuum-annealing, as detected by post-catalysis XPS, rather than to Sr/Ba doping at the rutile surface. The vacuum-annealing treatment is proposed to beneficially affect (i) bulk semiconductor TiO2 nanocrystal properties and electron harvesting, (ii) surface TiO2 reactivity towards chloride adsorption and oxidation, and (iii) FTO substrate performance.
Designing Supporting Structures of Passenger Ropeways of Minimum Cost Based on Modular Intermediate Towers of Discretely Variable Height
Authors: Lagerev Alexander V. , Lagerev Igor A.
Published: November 2020

Passenger ropeways are a promising alternative for the development of public transport infrastructure in large cities. However, the construction of ropeways has a rather high cost and requires taking into account a significant number of restrictions associated with the features of the existing urban development and the placement of urban infrastructure. The main objective of this research is to develop optimization models that minimize the total cost of modular intermediate towers of a discretely variable height and a rope system due to the optimal placement and selection of the height of these towers, taking into account the features of the surface topography and urban development. The proposed modular principle for the construction of intermediate towers also enables the cost of construction to be further reduced. As a specific example, the design of a ropeway in the city of Bryansk, which has a complex terrain, is considered. The developed models are conveniently used at the initial stage of the design of the ropeway to compare the cost of various options for the location of the ropeway route in order to reduce the risk of error when choosing the least expensive option. The calculation results can serve as a guide for a preliminary assessment of the number and height of intermediate towers, their installation locations on the ground and the characteristics of the cable system.
Calibration Techniques for Studying Venus and Mars Atmospheres
Authors: Gramigna Edoardo
Published: November 2020

The European Space Agency Venus Express mission (VEX) was sent to Venus in 2005 to unveil the unsolved mysteries regarding its atmosphere, the plasma environment and its temperatures. Radio occultation experiments performed by VeRa radio science instrument probed the planet’s atmosphere by studying the frequency shift on the radio signal sent by the spacecraft to Earth-based ground stations. This study carries out the calibration of the radio frequencies within a radio occultation experiment in order to correct the main sources of error as: thermal noise, spacecraft clock, spacecraft trajectory, and plasma noise. Any uncalibrated effects will bias the retrieval of atmospheric properties. A comparison of the occultation experiments between Venus and Mars is presented, both from the engineering and scientific point of view, through the analysis of Venus Express and Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) occultations data, highlighting stronger calibrations required for VEX, the extreme, hostile, thick Venus’ atmosphere, and a friendly, thin Mars’ atmosphere. This investigation analyzes Venus Express data recorded by the NASA Deep Space Network in 2014, and the results are compatible to previous studies of Venus atmosphere with VEX between 2006 and 2009.
Border Regimes and Pandemic Law in Time of COVID-19: A View from Brazil
Authors: Hoffmann Florian F. , Gonçalves Isadora d'Avila Lima Nery
Published: November 2020

COVID-19 has had a profound impact on migrants and refugees the world over. Their pre-existing vulnerabilities were immediately exacerbated as national health systems were often overwhelmed and many disease control measures were either inaccessible to them or had disproportionate socio-economic effects. But migrants and refugees have also been framed as prima facie causes for the transboundary spread of the virus, and public health exception and derogation clauses in both national and international refugee and human rights instruments have been used to block their entry, suspend asylum processing, or trigger deportations. Taking the example of Brazil as a point of departure, the present contribution argues that (for at least some states) the appearance of the virus seems to have served as a legal carte blanche for fundamentally reconfiguring or closing down border regimes. More specifically, we argue that the strategic mainstreaming of global health regulations into border regimes points to the emergence of a “pandemic law” that encroaches upon already fragile transnational legal regime complexes, with the potential to upend or hollow out existing frameworks for migrant and refugee protection.
The Subjective Norm and Attitudes of Preservice Teachers Toward Pupils With a Disability: An Experiment Based on the Cognitive Dissonance Theory
Authors: Emmers Elke , Baeyens Dieter , Petry Katja
Published: November 2020

Both the attitude of the preservice teacher and the subjective norm in the teacher-training program play a crucial role in the process towards inclusive education (Donnelly & Watkins, 2011). However, little research has been done on influencing the attitudes of preservice teachers via the subjective norm. Two studies were carried out using a pre- and post-test with students of the teacher-training program (N= 24,N= 34) who were divided into 2 experimental conditions in which the subjective norm was manipulated in the form of positive or negative discourse towards pupils with disabilities. Attitudes were assessed by the Chedoke-McMaster Attitudes Towards Children With Disabilities (CATCH) Scale (Rosenbaum, Armstrong, & King, 1986). Results show that we can cautiously assume that the subjective norm has an influence on the attitudes of the preservice teachers and that cognitive dissonance was experienced in which preservice teachers changed their own attitudes as a function of the subjective norm. The results of this study are therefore a plea for teacher education programs to not only focus on strong inclusive curricula but also pay sufficient attention to the inclusive mindset of teacher educators as role models for preservice teachers.
ON THE GROWTH OF LINEAR RECURRENCES IN FUNCTION FIELDS
Authors: FUCHS CLEMENS , HEINTZE SEBASTIAN
Published: November 2020

Let

$ (G_n)_{n=0}^{\infty } $
be a nondegenerate linear recurrence sequence whose power sum representation is given by

$ G_n = a_1(n) \alpha _1^n + \cdots + a_t(n) \alpha _t^n $
. We prove a function field analogue of the well-known result in the number field case that, under some nonrestrictive conditions,

$ |{G_n}| \geq ( \max _{j=1,\ldots ,t} |{\alpha _j}| )^{n(1-\varepsilon )} $
for

$ n $
large enough.
The effect of sugar-sweetened beverages at 4 years of age on appetitive behaviours of 7-year-olds from the Generation XXI birth cohort
Authors: Costa D. , Warkentin S. , Oliveira A.
Published: November 2020

The consumption of energy-dense sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) and its low satiating effects may influence the development of child eating behaviours. We aimed to investigate the association of SSB consumption at 4 years on appetitive behaviours at age 7 years. Children from the Generation XXI birth cohort were included (n3880). SSB consumption was evaluated through a FFQ and appetitive behaviours were evaluated through the Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire, which includes eight subscales. Two composite factors, derived by principal component analysis (Appetite Restraint – related to Food Fussiness, Enjoyment of Food, Slowness in Eating and Satiety Responsiveness – and Appetite Disinhibition – related to Food Responsiveness, Emotional Under- and Overeating and Desire to Drink), were also investigated. The dose–response relationship between SSB consumption and appetitive behaviours was examined using multivariable linear regression (continuous eating behaviour scores) and multinomial logistic regression (tertile categories of eating behaviour scores). Child SSB consumption at 4 years was associated with higher Appetite Disinhibition and Desire to Drink and lower Food Fussiness and Slowness in Eating at 7 years. Consuming SSB ≥1 times/d (compared with a lower intake) was associated with 29 % increase in the odds of Desire to Drink (3rdv.1st tertile). Pre-schoolers’ SSB consumption was associated with higher food approach and less food avoidant behaviours later in childhood. Family characteristics, particularly maternal SSB consumption, explained part of these associations. It is essential to promote the intake of water, instead of sugary drinks, and make parents and caregivers aware of the importance of this exposure, since they have a pivotal role in shaping children’s eating behaviours.
Standardized ileal digestible tryptophan and lysine for 15–30 kg gilts
Authors: Pasquetti T. J. , Esteves L. A. C. , de Paula V. R. C. , Bonagúrio L. P. , Tanamati W. , Fachinello M. R. , Oliveira N. T. E. , Pozza P. C.
Published: November 2020

It was aimed to simultaneously study standardized ileal digestible (SID) tryptophan (Trp) and lysine (Lys) for gilts. A digestibility assay was previously conducted to determine the SID amino acid in the basal diet (low levels of SID Trp and Lys). Sixty-four gilts (15.04 ± 1.44 kg) were allotted to 16 diets in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement (1.55, 1.85, 2.15 and 2.45 g/kg SID Trp and 9.72, 11.12, 12.52 and 13.92 g/kg SID Lys) with four replicates per treatment. Performance, longissimus muscle (LM), backfat thickness (BF) and blood variables were evaluated. An interaction was observed for G:F, and by response surface model, the optimum Trp level was achieved at 2.15 g/kg (0.159 g/MJ of ME). A quadratic effect of Trp was observed on body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG); the daily feed intake increased linearly as Trp increased. The optimum Trp levels of 2.25 and 2.24 g/kg were estimated for BW and ADG, respectively. The BF increased with increasing levels of Trp. There was a quadratic and linear effect of Trp and Lys, respectively, on the LM, in which the optimum Trp level was determined as 2.05 g/kg in the diet. Plasma urea nitrogen decreased as Trp and Lys levels increased. Using estimates provided by response surface, maximized G:F ratio was obtained at 2.15 g SID Trp/kg of diet and at least 13.92 g SID Lys/kg of diet is necessary to optimize the G:F for 15–30 kg gilts, providing a Trp:Lys ratio of 15.4:100.
DOMAIN-GENERAL AUDITORY PROCESSING EXPLAINS MULTIPLE DIMENSIONS OF L2 ACQUISITION IN ADULTHOOD
Authors: Saito Kazuya , Sun Hui , Kachlicka Magdalena , Alayo John Robert Carvajal , Nakata Tatsuya , Tierney Adam
Published: November 2020

In this study, we propose a hypothesis that domain-general auditory processing, a perceptual anchor of L1 acquisition, can serve as the foundation of successful post-pubertal L2 learning. This hypothesis was tested with 139 post-pubertal L2 immersion learners by linking individual differences in auditory discrimination across multiple acoustic dimensions to the segmental, prosodic, lexical, and morphosyntactic dimensions of L2 proficiency. Overall, auditory processing was a primary determinant of a range of participants’ proficiency scores, even after biographical factors (experience, age) were controlled for. The link between audition and proficiency was especially clear for L2 learners who had passed beyond the initial phase of immersion (length of residence > 1 year). The findings suggest that greater auditory processing skill benefits post-pubertal L2 learners immersed in naturalistic settings for a sufficient period of time by allowing them to better utilize received input, which results in greater language gains and leads to more advanced L2 proficiency in the long run (similar to L1 acquisition).
USING PROSODY TO PREDICT UPCOMING REFERENTS IN THE L1 AND THE L2
Authors: Foltz Anouschka
Published: November 2020

While monolingual speakers can use contrastive pitch accents to predict upcoming referents, bilingual speakers do not always use this cue predictively in their L2. The current study examines the role of recent exposure for predictive processing in native German (L1) second language learners of English (L2). In Experiment 1, participants followed instructions to click on two successive objects, for example,Click on the red carrot/duck. Click on the green/GREEN carrot(where CAPS indicate a contrastive L + H* accent). Participants predicted a repeated noun following a L + H* accent in the L1, but not in the L2, where processing was delayed. Experiment 2 shows that after an exposure period with highly consistent prosodic cues, bilinguals engaged in predictive processing in both their L1 and L2. However, inconsistent prosodic cues showed different effects on bilinguals’ L1 and L2 predictive processing. The results are discussed in terms of exposure-based and resource-deficit models of processing.
Utility of three-dimensional printed heart models for education on complex congenital heart diseases
Authors: Lee Cheul , Lee Jae Young
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effects of education on complex congenital heart diseases using patient-specific three-dimensional printed heart models.

Methods:

Three-dimensional printed heart models were created using computed tomography data obtained from 11 patients with complex congenital heart disease. Fourteen kinds of heart models, encompassing nine kinds of complex congenital heart disease were printed. Using these models, a series of educational hands-on seminars, led by an experienced paediatric cardiac surgeon and a paediatric cardiologist, were conducted for medical personnel who were involved in the care of congenital heart disease patients. Contents of the seminars included anatomy, three-dimensional structure, pathophysiology, and surgery for each diagnosis. Likert-type (10-point scale) questionnaires were used before and after each seminar to evaluate the effects of education.

Results:

Between November 2019 and June 2020, a total of 16 sessions of hands-on seminar were conducted. The total number of questionnaire responses was 75. Overall, participants reported subjective improvement in understanding anatomy (4.8 ± 2.1 versus 8.4 ± 1.1, p < 0.001), three-dimensional structure (4.6 ± 2.2 versus 8.9 ± 1.0, p < 0.001), pathophysiology (4.8 ± 2.2 versus 8.5 ± 1.0, p < 0.001), and surgery (4.9 ± 2.3 versus 8.8 ± 0.9, p < 0.001) of the congenital heart disease investigated.

Conclusions:

The utilisation of three-dimensional printed heart models for education on complex congenital heart disease was feasible and improved medical personnel’s understanding of complex congenital heart disease. This education tool may be an effective alternative to conventional education tools for complex congenital heart disease.
P wave dispersion and ventricular repolarization changes in children with familial hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Çakar Nafiye E. , İrdem Ahmet
Published: November 2020

Background:

Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disease with plasma total cholesterol especially low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol elevation. In this study, we aimed to examine the changes in the electrocardiographies of children with familial hypercholesterolemia.

Materials and methods:

Electrocardiography of 85 patients with a diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, followed up from the Pediatric Metabolism and Pediatric Cardiology outpatient clinic was examined. Electrocardiography of 83 children from the control group who did not have hypercholesterolemia in a similar gender and age range were examined. Heart rate, P wave, PR interval, P wave dispersion, QRS wave, QT interval, corrected QT (calculated with Bazett formula), Tpeak-end interval, QT dispersion, corrected QT dispersion, JT interval, corrected JT (calculated with Bazett formula) were statistically compared.

Results:

P wave, PR interval, and P wave dispersion values were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the children with familial hypercholesterolemia. Corrected QT, QT dispersion, corrected QT dispersion, JT interval, corrected JT, Tpeak-end interval were significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05) in children with familial hypercholesterolemia. These statistical differences in electrocardiography parameters support the risk of atrial and/or ventricular arrhythmia in children with familial hypercholesterolemia.

Conclusion:

We found that high total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol variables are associated with an increased risk of cardiac atrial and/or ventricular arrhythmia. The findings suggest that total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol variability can be used as a new marker for the risk of cardiac arrhythmia. In this case, decreasing total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol variability below certain thresholds may decrease the risk of cardiac arrhythmia.
Eating disorders and autism spectrum: links and risks
Authors: Carpita Barbara , Muti Dario , Cremone Ivan Mirko , Fagiolini Andrea , Dell’Osso Liliana
Published: November 2020

In the last decades, increasing attention has been provided to socio-cultural and neurobiological factors involved in the psychopathology of feeding and eating disorders (FED), encouraging a multifactorial approach. In this framework, several authors stressed an association between FED and other kinds of psychiatric disorders from both a psychopathological and a neurobiological point of view. In particular, many promising contributions are focusing on the possible link between FED and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Growing interest about this association rose from the frequently reported evidence of ASD-like traits amongst FED patients and abnormal eating behaviors amongst patients with ASD. This narrative review overview aims to summarize the most relevant findings about the overlap between different kinds of FED and the autism spectrum, taking into account the most recent hypotheses about the psychopathology of both these conditions. While most of the studies focused on anorexia nervosa, both ASD and autistic traits seem to be detectable also in other kinds of FED. In addition, the recently increased interest toward a dimensional approach to psychopathology led to progressively broadening the concept of ASD, focusing on its subthreshold and gender-specific manifestations and on its link with other psychiatric conditions, including FED. Globally the studies summarized here provide further support to theoretical models featuring a neurodevelopmental approach for mental disorders. In particular, FED have been conceptualized as a possible psychopathological trajectory of a neurodevelopmental alteration, toward which female gender would act as one of many predisposing factors.
Treatment barriers, preferences and histories of individuals with symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder
Authors: McCausland Jessica , Paparo Josephine , Wootton Bethany M.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Individuals with mental health concerns face many barriers when accessing psychological treatment. Even when patients overcome these barriers, they often do not receive an evidence-based treatment. Although the current literature highlights these issues clearly across psychological disorders, the research is limited in relation to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

Aim:

The aim of this study was to examine psychological treatment barriers, treatment delivery preferences and treatment histories of individuals with symptoms of BDD.

Method:

A total of 122 participants with clinically significant BDD symptoms (94% female; mean age = 34.19 years, SD = 10.86) completed the cross-sectional study.

Results:

The most frequently reported barriers to accessing psychological treatment for individuals with BDD symptoms were the cost of treatment (41%) and the belief that the symptoms did not warrant treatment (36%). Although 69% of treatment-seeking participants reported previously receiving cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for BDD, only 13% of participants appeared to receive best-practice CBT. The preferred modality of future psychological treatment delivery was face-to-face treatment with a therapist once a week (63%), rather than accelerated or remote treatment approaches.

Conclusions:

The study suggests that there are significant barriers to accessing CBT for BDD. Reducing these barriers, as well as increasing consumer mental health literacy, is required to improve treatment access and treatment outcomes for individuals with BDD.
Incidental Learning and Memory Deficits on a Computerized Symbol-Digit Modalities Test in Adults with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Hardy David J. , Castellon Steven A. , Hinkin Charles H.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Incidental learning and memory, as well as processing speed, were examined in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive adults and a seronegative control group.

Methods:

Participants completed a computerized Symbol-Digit Modalities Test (cSDMT) with two blocked conditions: a set of trials with the standard symbol–digit pairings and the second set with a rearranged symbol–digit pairings.

Results:

HIV-positive adults showed slower overall reaction time compared to the HIV-negative group. More importantly, the most cognitively impaired HIV-positive group showed no interference in the rearranged set of symbol–digit pairings from the standard pairings on the cSDMT.

Conclusion:

The relative slowing, or interference, in the HIV-negative group and two HIV-positive groups (unimpaired and impaired) was quite large (between 122 and 131 ms). We argue that the lack of such relative slowing in the most cognitively impaired HIV-positive group indicates a deficit in incidental learning and memory.
Leading or Cheer-Leading? The Gender Gap in Political Smiles
Authors: Koo Sejin
Published: November 2020

In contrast to men, women are often assumed to bear the burden of making others feel comfortable through positive emotional displays such as smiling. However, in the literature, the empirical evidence for the relevance of gender stereotypes in explaining electoral outcomes remains inconclusive. By focusing on gender stereotypes regarding facial emotional displays, this study addresses the gendered consequence of candidates’ smiling on their electoral fortunes. I analyze the results of the 2014 Korean local elections and measure candidate smiles on campaign posters by employing a biometric artificial intelligence application detecting facial emotions in images. The results demonstrate that the smiling effect has a powerful positive impact on the electoral performance of women candidates running in a multicandidate race. The positive effect is limited for women running in two-candidate races and for male candidates regardless of the number of competitors. The findings suggest that voters use intuitive cues such as candidate facial displays in electoral posters when choosing among multiple candidates in low-information settings. This study contributes to a better understanding of the activation of gender stereotypes in the electoral process.
Remembering and Forgetting the Last War: Discursive Memory of the Sino-Vietnamese War in China and Vietnam
Authors: Yin Qingfei , Path Kosal
Published: November 2020

The year 2019 marked the 40th anniversary of the outbreak of the Sino-Vietnamese War in 1979. Making use of published and unpublished Chinese, Vietnamese, and English sources, this article traces the tensions between official and popular memories of the Sino-Vietnamese War of 1979 in China and Vietnam, respectively. We argue that these tensions existed because the development of the official Chinese and Vietnamese memories of the war largely mirrored each other. Between 1991 and roughly 2006, when bilateral relations between the countries improved, both Beijing and Hanoi claimed victory for their side while simultaneously downplaying the bloodshed, tragedy, and loss experienced during the war. However, they have reacted to the rise of popular memories since the early 2000s in very different ways. While Beijing walks a thin line between accommodating appeals for greater recognition of the sacrifices made by ordinary soldiers without provoking social discontent with the political system, Hanoi has been more successful in mobilising Vietnamese popular memory of the war to strike a measured nationalistic response to China. How China and Vietnam remember and downplay the Sino-Vietnamese War points to the bigger picture of the sensitivity of bilateral relations to historical memory in Asia. In particular, historical memory shapes how a country perceives external threats and opportunities, while historical memory is created, suppressed, and re-created as international relations evolve.
Impact of iron formulations on topramezone injury to bermudagrass
Authors: Boyd Adam P. , McElroy J. Scott , Han David Y. , Guertal Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2020

Goosegrass control options in bermudagrass are limited. Topramezone is one option that offers excellent control of mature goosegrass, but application to bermudagrass results in unacceptable symptoms of bleaching and necrosis typical of hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibitors. Previous research has shown that adding chelated iron reduced the phytotoxicity of topramezone without reducing the efficacy of the herbicide, resulting in safening when applied to bermudagrass. Our objective was to examine additional iron sources to determine whether similar safening effects occur with other sources. Field trials were conducted in the summers of 2016 to 2018 (Auburn University). Mixtures of topramezone and methylated seed oil were combined with six different commercial iron sources, including sodium ferric ethylenediamine di-o-hydroxyphenyl-acetate (FeEDDHA), ferrous diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (FeDTPA), iron citrate, FeSO4, and a combination of iron oxide/sucrate/sulfate, some of which contained nitrogen. Bermudagrass necrosis and bleaching symptoms were visually rated on a 0% to 100% scale. Reflectance (normalized difference vegetation index) and clipping yield measurements were also collected. Application of FeDTPA and FeSO4 reduced symptoms of bleaching and necrosis when applied with topramezone. Other treatments that contained nitrogen did not reduce injury but did reduce bermudagrass recovery time following the appearance of necrosis. Inclusion of small amounts of nitrogen often negated the safening effects of FeSO4. The iron oxide/sucrate/sulfate product had no effect on bleaching or necrosis. Data suggest that the iron source had a differential effect on bleaching and necrosis reduction when applied in combination with topramezone to bermudagrass. Overall, FeSO4 and FeDTPA safened topramezone the most on bermudagrass.
Neurotizismus, Stressverarbeitung und Lebensqualität bei Jugendlichen
Authors: Hampel Petra , Petermann Franz
Published: November 2020

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Persönlichkeitsmerkmale und Stressverarbeitungskompetenzen haben eine große Bedeutung in der psychosozialen Anpassung an belastende Situationen von Jugendlichen. Fragestellung: Diese Studie untersuchte den vermittelnden Effekt der Stressverarbeitung auf die Beziehung zwischen Neurotizismus und gesundheitsbezogener Lebensqualität unter Kontrolle des Geschlechts und Herkunftslandes. Methode: Es wurden vier einfache Mediationsanalysen mit den Kovariaten „Geschlecht“ und „Herkunftsland“ über N = 176 Siebtklässler aus Deutschland und Österreich durchgeführt. Ergebnisse: Die problembezogene Bewältigung vermittelte den ungünstigen Einfluss des Neurotizismus auf die eltern- und schulbezogene Lebensqualität. Die ungünstige Stressverarbeitung vermittelte lediglich zwischen Neurotizismus und schulbezogener, nicht aber elternbezogener Lebensqualität. Schlussfolgerung: Die Befunde unterstützen die Notwendigkeit zielgruppenspezifischer Gesundheitsförderprogramme zur Steigerung der Stressverarbeitungskompetenzen bereits im Grundschulalter. Hierbei deutete sich ein besonderer Bedarf bei Mädchen im Jugendalter an.
Remote Sensing of Sea Surface Salinity Variability in the South China Sea
Authors: Yi Daling Li , Melnichenko Oleg , Hacker Peter , Potemra James
Published: November 2020

Using newly available satellite observations of sea surface salinity (SSS), we provide, for the first time, a detailed and synoptic view of the spatiotemporal variability of SSS in the South China Sea (SCS). The results depict the SCS as a very dynamic region exhibiting variability over a broad range of time scales, from intraseasonal to interannual, with the seasonal cycle dominating (∼47% of the total SSS variance). The seasonal distribution of SSS has considerable latitudinal variations: the strongest variance across the southern SCS (∼5–12°N), weaker in the northern part of the sea (north of ∼18°N), with the weakest seasonal SSS variability in between. The factors controlling patterns of seasonal SSS distribution are closely related to both the external freshwater forcing and ocean processes over the entire SCS monsoon system. The most active interannual SSS variability is found in the northeastern and eastern parts of the SCS, as well as the adjacent western Pacific. A significant basin‐wide salinification began in summer of 2015, peaked in spring of 2016 with the averaged amplitude of up to 0.5 PSU, and maintained until the fall of 2016. Such persistent salinification during 2015–2016 following a strong El Nino event can be largely modulated by El Nino‐related atmospheric and oceanic dynamics. The intraseasonal variability was found to be surprisingly weak throughout the SCS (the standard deviation <0.2 PSU), except for a few regions near the coast where it is likely related to the intraseasonal variability in the monsoon rainfall and subsequent variations in river runoff.
Evaluating the Potential and Challenges of an Uncertainty Quantification Method for Long Short‐Term Memory Models for Soil Moisture Predictions
Authors: Fang Kuai , Kifer Daniel , Lawson Kathryn , Shen Chaopeng
Published: November 2020

Recently, recurrent deep networks have shown promise to harness newly available satellite‐sensed data for long‐term soil moisture projections. However, to be useful in forecasting, deep networks must also provide uncertainty estimates. Here we evaluated Monte Carlo dropout with an input‐dependent data noise term (MCD+N), an efficient uncertainty estimation framework originally developed in computer vision, for hydrologic time series predictions. MCD+N simultaneously estimates a heteroscedastic input‐dependent data noise term (a trained error model attributable to observational noise) and a network weight uncertainty term (attributable to insufficiently constrained model parameters). Although MCD+N has appealing features, many heuristic approximations were employed during its derivation, and rigorous evaluations and evidence of its asserted capability to detect dissimilarity were lacking. To address this, we provided an in‐depth evaluation of the scheme's potential and limitations. We showed that for reproducing soil moisture dynamics recorded by the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission, MCD+N indeed gave a good estimate of predictive error, provided that we tuned a hyperparameter and used a representative training data set. The input‐dependent term responded strongly to observational noise, while the model term clearly acted as a detector for physiographic dissimilarity from the training data, behaving as intended. However, when the training and test data were characteristically different, the input‐dependent term could be misled, undermining its reliability. Additionally, due to the data‐driven nature of the model, data noise also influences network weight uncertainty, and therefore the two uncertainty terms are correlated. Overall, this approach has promise, but care is needed to interpret the results.
Identification of candidate genetic variants and altered protein expression in neural stem and mature neural cells support altered microtubule function to be an essential component in bipolar disorder
Authors: Truvé Katarina , Parris Toshima Z. , Vizlin-Hodzic Dzeneta , Salmela Susanne , Berger Evelin , Ågren Hans , Funa Keiko
Published: November 2020

Identification of causative genetic variants leading to the development of bipolar disorder (BD) could result in genetic tests that would facilitate diagnosis. A better understanding of affected genes and pathways is also necessary for targeting of genes that may improve treatment strategies. To date several susceptibility genes have been reported from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), but little is known about specific variants that affect disease development. Here, we performed quantitative proteomics and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Quantitative proteomics revealed NLRP2 as the most significantly up-regulated protein in neural stem cells and mature neural cells obtained from BD-patient cell samples. These results are in concordance with our previously published transcriptome analysis. Furthermore, the levels of FEZ2 and CADM2 proteins were also significantly differentially expressed in BD compared to control derived cells. The levels of FEZ2 were significantly downregulated in neural stem cells (NSC) while CADM2 was significantly up-regulated in mature neuronal cell culture. Promising novel candidate mutations were identified in theANK3, NEK3, NEK7, TUBB, ANKRD1, andBRD2genes. A literature search of candidate variants and deregulated proteins revealed that there are several connections to microtubule function for the molecules putatively involved. Microtubule function in neurons is critical for axon structure and axonal transport. A functional dynamic microtubule is also needed for an advocate response to cellular and environmental stress. If microtubule dynamics is compromised by mutations, it could be followed by deregulated expression forming a possible explanation for the inherited vulnerability to stressful life events that have been proposed to trigger mood episodes in BD patients.
The novel interplay between CD44 standard isoform and the caspase-1/IL1B pathway to induce hepatocellular carcinoma progression
Authors: Li Jun , Zhang Yongwei , Ruan Ran , He Wei , Qian Yeben
Published: November 2020

Accumulating data indicate caspase-1 (CASP1), one of the inflammatory caspases, promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression in tumor proliferation, invasion, EMT phenotype and sorafenib resistance. However, the molecular basis of regulating caspase-1 expression and caspase-1/IL1B (interleukin-1β) pathway in HCC remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated the novel interplay between caspase-1/IL1B activation and cluster differentiation 44 standard isoform (CD44s) in HCC. In this study, we observed that CD44s is responsible for caspase-1/IL1B activation both in HCC tissues and five HCC cell lines. In normoxia conditions, CD44s knockdown repressed the activation of caspase-1/IL1B via stimulating AMPK-mediated autophagy. Moreover, our data suggested that p62-induced autophagic degradation of caspase-1 accounted for caspase-1/IL1B inactivation in CD44s deficient cells. Administration of recombinant human IL1B could rescue impaired proliferation, invasion, and EMT phenotype in CD44s deficient HCC cells. Lastly, hypoxia-mediated caspase-1/IL1B overexpression could be abolished by CD44s downregulation through decreasing HIF1A and enhancing autophagic activity. Overall, targeting CD44s is a novel inhibitory mechanism of caspase-1/IL1B expression, both in normoxia and hypoxia conditions.
Spin filtering by proximity effects at hybridized interfaces in spin-valves with 2D graphene barriers
Authors: Piquemal-Banci Maëlis , Galceran Regina , Dubois Simon M.-M. , Zatko Victor , Galbiati Marta , Godel Florian , Martin Marie-Blandine , Weatherup Robert S. , Petroff Frédéric , Fert Albert , Charlier Jean-Christophe , Robertson John , Hofmann Stephan , Dlubak Bruno , Seneor Pierre
Published: November 2020

We report on spin transport in state-of-the-art epitaxial monolayer graphene based 2D-magnetic tunnel junctions (2D-MTJs). In our measurements, supported by ab-initio calculations, the strength of interaction between ferromagnetic electrodes and graphene monolayers is shown to fundamentally control the resulting spin signal. In particular, by switching the graphene/ferromagnet interaction, spin transport reveals magneto-resistance signal MR > 80% in junctions with low resistance × area products. Descriptions based only on a simple K-point filtering picture (i.e. MR increase with the number of layers) are not sufficient to predict the behavior of our devices. We emphasize that hybridization effects need to be taken into account to fully grasp the spin properties (such as spin dependent density of states) when 2D materials are used as ultimately thin interfaces. While this is only a first demonstration, we thus introduce the fruitful potential of spin manipulation by proximity effect at the hybridized 2D material / ferromagnet interface for 2D-MTJs.
Human endogenous retroviruses form a reservoir of T cell targets in hematological cancers
Authors: Saini Sunil Kumar , Ørskov Andreas Due , Bjerregaard Anne-Mette , Unnikrishnan Ashwin , Holmberg-Thydén Staffan , Borch Annie , Jensen Kathrine Valentini , Anande Govardhan , Bentzen Amalie Kai , Marquard Andrea Marion , Tamhane Tripti , Treppendahl Marianne Bach , Gang Anne Ortved , Dufva Inge Høgh , Szallasi Zoltan , Ternette Nicola , Pedersen Anders Gorm , Eklund Aron Charles , Pimanda John , Grønbæk Kirsten , Hadrup Sine Reker
Published: November 2020

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) form a substantial part of the human genome, but mostly remain transcriptionally silent under strict epigenetic regulation, yet can potentially be reactivated by malignant transformation or epigenetic therapies. Here, we evaluate the potential for T cell recognition of HERV elements in myeloid malignancies by mapping transcribed HERV genes and generating a library of 1169 potential antigenic HERV-derived peptides predicted for presentation by 4 HLA class I molecules. Using DNA barcode-labeled MHC-I multimers, we find CD8+ T cell populations recognizing 29 HERV-derived peptides representing 18 different HERV loci, of which HERVH-5, HERVW-1, and HERVE-3 have more profound responses; such HERV-specific T cells are present in 17 of the 34 patients, but less frequently in healthy donors. Transcriptomic analyses reveal enhanced transcription of the HERVs in patients; meanwhile DNA-demethylating therapy causes a small and heterogeneous enhancement in HERV transcription without altering T cell recognition. Our study thus uncovers T cell recognition of HERVs in myeloid malignancies, thereby implicating HERVs as potential targets for immunotherapeutic therapies.
FABP3-mediated membrane lipid saturation alters fluidity and induces ER stress in skeletal muscle with aging
Authors: Lee Seung-Min , Lee Seol Hee , Jung Youngae , Lee Younglang , Yoon Jong Hyun , Choi Jeong Yi , Hwang Chae Young , Son Young Hoon , Park Sung Sup , Hwang Geum-Sook , Lee Kwang-Pyo , Kwon Ki-Sun
Published: November 2020

Sarcopenia is characterized by decreased skeletal muscle mass and function with age. Aged muscles have altered lipid compositions; however, the role and regulation of lipids are unknown. Here we report that FABP3 is upregulated in aged skeletal muscles, disrupting homeostasis via lipid remodeling. Lipidomic analyses reveal that FABP3 overexpression in young muscles alters the membrane lipid composition to that of aged muscle by decreasing polyunsaturated phospholipid acyl chains, while increasing sphingomyelin and lysophosphatidylcholine. FABP3-dependent membrane lipid remodeling causes ER stress via the PERK-eIF2α pathway and inhibits protein synthesis, limiting muscle recovery after immobilization. FABP3 knockdown induces a young-like lipid composition in aged muscles, reduces ER stress, and improves protein synthesis and muscle recovery. Further, FABP3 reduces membrane fluidity and knockdown increases fluidity in vitro, potentially causing ER stress. Therefore, FABP3 drives membrane lipid composition-mediated ER stress to regulate muscle homeostasis during aging and is a valuable target for sarcopenia.