bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband Seismic Isolation of Periodic Ladder Frame Structure
Authors: Prasad Rajan , Sarkar Abhijit
Published: July 2020

Ladder frame structures are used as models for multistorey buildings. These periodic structures exhibit alternating propagating and attenuating frequency bands. Of the six different wave modes of propagation, two modes strongly attenuate at all frequencies. The other four modes have nonoverlapping stop band characteristics. Thus, it is challenging to isolate such structures when subjected to broadband, multimodal base excitation. In this study, we seek to synthesize a periodic ladder frame structure that has attenuation characteristics over the maximal range of frequencies for all the modes of wave propagation. We synthesize a unit cell of the periodic structure, which comprises two distinct regions having different inertial, stiffness, and geometric properties. The eigenvalues of the transfer matrix of the unit cell determines the attenuating or the nonattenuating characteristics of the structure. A novel pictorial presentation in the form of eigenvalue map is developed. This is used to synthesize the optimal unit cell. Also, design guidelines for suitable selection of the design parameters are presented. It is shown that a large finite periodic structure comprising a unit cell synthesized using the present approach has significantly better isolation characteristics in comparison to the homogeneous or any other arbitrarily chosen periodic structure.
Suppression tuning curves in a two-degrees-of-freedom nonlinear cochlear model
Authors: Moleti Arturo , Sisto Renata
Published: July 2020

A two-degrees-of-freedom nonlinear cochlear model [Sisto, Shera, Altoè, and Moleti (2019). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 146, 1685–1695] correctly predicts that the reticular lamina response is nonlinear over a wide basal region. Numerical simulations of suppression tuning curves agree with a recent experiment [Dewey, Applegate, and Oghalai (2019). J. Neurosci. 39, 1805–1816], supporting the idea that the strong susceptibility of the reticular lamina response to suppression by high-frequency tones does not imply that the total traveling wave energy builds-up in correspondingly basal regions. This happens because the reticular lamina is the lightest element of a coupled-oscillators system, only indirectly coupled to the differential pressure.
The predictable chaos of slow earthquakes
Authors: Gualandi A. , Avouac J.-P. , Michel S. , Faranda D.
Published: July 2020

Slow earthquakes result from deterministic chaos and show predictability horizon time of the order of days to weeks.
Signal dynamics of midbrain dopamine neurons during economic decision-making in monkeys
Authors: Yun Mengxi , Kawai Takashi , Nejime Masafumi , Yamada Hiroshi , Matsumoto Masayuki
Published: July 2020

Dopamine dynamics represent the internal process of economic decision-making in which option’s value is transformed into decision.
Enhanced efficacy of mesothelin-targeted immunotoxin LMB-100 and anti–PD-1 antibody in patients with mesothelioma and mouse tumor models
Authors: Jiang Qun , Ghafoor Azam , Mian Idrees , Rathkey Daniel , Thomas Anish , Alewine Christine , Sengupta Manjistha , Ahlman Mark A. , Zhang Jingli , Morrow Betsy , Steinberg Seth M. , Pastan Ira , Hassan Raffit
Published: July 2020

Mesothelin-targeted immunotoxin LMB-100 with anti–PD-1 antibody enhanced antitumor activity in patients with mesothelioma and mouse tumor models.
A Conformational Escape Reaction of HIV-1 against an Allosteric Integrase Inhibitor
Authors: Nakamura Tomofumi , Nakamura Teruya , Amano Masayuki , Miyakawa Toshikazu , Yamagata Yuriko , Matsuoka Masao , Nakata Hirotomo
Published: July 2020

Understanding the mechanism of HIV-1 resistance to anti-HIV-1 drugs could lead to the development of novel drugs with increased efficiency, resulting in more effective ART. ART composed of more potent and long-acting anti-HIV-1 drugs can greatly improve drug adherence and also provide HIV-1 prevention such as preexposure prophylaxis. NCINIs with a multimodal mode of action exert potent anti-HIV-1 effects through IN overmultimerization during HIV-1 maturation. However, HIV-1 can acquire some mutations that cause IN undermultimerization to alleviate NCINI-induced IN overmultimerization. This undermultimerized IN was efficiently stabilized by HIV-1 RNA and restored to the same level as that of wild-type HIV-1. Our findings revealed that HIV-1 eventually acquires such a conformational escape reaction to overcome the unique NCINI actions. The investigation into drug-resistant mutations associated with HIV-1 protein multimerization may facilitate the elucidation of its molecular mechanism and functional multimerization, allowing us to develop more potent anti-HIV-1 drugs and unique treatment strategies.
Draft Genome Sequence of Putative 2-Methylisoborneol-Producing
Pseudanabaena yagii
Strain GIHE-NHR1, Isolated from the North Han River in South Korea
Authors: Jeong Ju-Yong , Lee Sang-Hoon , Yun Mi-Ra , Oh Seung-Eun , Kim Tae-Hwa , Yoon Mi-Hye , Park Hee-Deung
Published: July 2020

The draft genome sequence of
Pseudanabaena yagii
GIHE-NHR1, a filamentous cyanobacterium, is reported here. Comparative genome analysis suggests that this strain can produce an odor-causing compound (2-methylisoborneol) in water. The genome information is expected to improve the understanding of the putative 2-methylisoborneol production by the bacterium.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Bacterium Paraburkholderia aromaticivorans AR20-38, a Gram-Negative, Cold-Adapted Degrader of Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Poyntner Caroline , Zhang Dechao , Margesin Rosa
Published: July 2020

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Paraburkholderia aromaticivorans
strain AR20-38, a cold-adapted Gram-negative bacterium. It was isolated from Alpine forest soil and can degrade a range of aromatic compounds.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus cereus TN10, a Chromium-Resistant and -Reducing Strain Isolated from Tannery Effluent
Authors: Hossain Maqsud , Tasnim Samiha , Safa Ashrafus , Rayhan Abdullah Bin Hossain , Khan Mohammad Tanvir Ibna Ashad , Bulbul Nayeema , Sadique Abdus , Ahsan Gias U. , Jime Jinath Sultana
Published: July 2020

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Bacillus cereus
strain TN10, which exhibited chromium resistance and chromium-reducing ability. The whole-genome sequence analysis of strain TN10 will help us to understand its genetic factors involved in the bioremediation of Cr
6+
.
Complete Genome Sequences of Seven Avibacterium paragallinarum Isolates from Poultry Farms in Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Byukusenge Maurice , Nissly Ruth H. , Li Lingling , Pierre Traci , Mathews Tammy , Wallner-Pendleton Eva , Dunn Patricia , Barnhart Denise , Loughrey Sean , Davison Sherrill , Kelly Donna J. , Tewari Deepanker , Jayarao Bhushan M. , Kuchipudi Suresh V.
Published: July 2020

Avibacterium paragallinarum
, the causative agent of infectious coryza, causes significant economic losses to the poultry industry due to increased culling rates in growing chickens and decreased egg production in layers. We present the complete genome sequences of seven strains of
Avibacterium paragallinarum
isolated from poultry farms in Pennsylvania during 2019.
Lathosterol Oxidase (Sterol C-5 Desaturase) Deletion Confers Resistance to Amphotericin B and Sensitivity to Acidic Stress in Leishmania major
Authors: Ning Yu , Frankfater Cheryl , Hsu Fong-Fu , Soares Rodrigo P. , Cardoso Camila A. , Nogueira Paula M. , Lander Noelia Marina , Docampo Roberto , Zhang Kai
Published: July 2020

Sterols are essential membrane components in eukaryotes, and sterol synthesis inhibitors can have potent effects against pathogenic fungi and trypanosomatids. Understanding the roles of sterols will facilitate the development of new drugs and counter drug resistance. LSO is required for the formation of the C-5–C-6 double bond in the sterol core structure in mammals, fungi, protozoans, plants, and algae. Functions of this C-5–C-6 double bond are not well understood. In this study, we generated and characterized a lathosterol oxidase-null mutant in
Leishmania major
. Our data suggest that LSO is vital for the structure and membrane-stabilizing functions of leishmanial sterols. In addition, our results imply that while mutations in lathosterol oxidase can confer resistance to amphotericin B, an important antifungal and antiprotozoal agent, the alteration in sterol structure leads to significant defects in stress response that could be exploited for drug development.
Interpreting and reporting 40Ar/39Ar geochronologic data
Authors: Schaen Allen J. , Jicha Brian R. , Hodges Kip V. , Vermeesch Pieter , Stelten Mark E. , Mercer Cameron M. , Phillips David , Rivera Tiffany A. , Jourdan Fred , Matchan Erin L. , Hemming Sidney R. , Morgan Leah E. , Kelley Simon P. , Cassata William S. , Heizler Matt T. , Vasconcelos Paulo M. , Benowitz Jeff A. , Koppers Anthony A.P. , Mark Darren F. , Niespolo Elizabeth M. , Sprain Courtney J. , Hames Willis E. , Kuiper Klaudia F. , Turrin Brent D. , Renne Paul R. , Ross Jake , Nomade Sebastien , Guillou Hervé , Webb Laura E. , Cohen Barbara A. , Calvert Andrew T. , Joyce Nancy , Ganerød Morgan , Wijbrans Jan , Ishizuka Osamu , He Huaiyu , Ramirez Adán , Pfänder Jörg A. , Lopez-Martínez Margarita , Qiu Huaning , Singer Brad S.
Published: July 2020

The 40Ar/39Ar dating method is among the most versatile of geochronometers, having the potential to date a broad variety of K-bearing materials spanning from the time of Earth’s formation into the historical realm. Measurements using modern noble-gas mass spectrometers are now producing 40Ar/39Ar dates with analytical uncertainties of ∼0.1%, thereby providing precise time constraints for a wide range of geologic and extraterrestrial processes. Analyses of increasingly smaller subsamples have revealed age dispersion in many materials, including some minerals used as neutron fluence monitors. Accordingly, interpretive strategies are evolving to address observed dispersion in dates from a single sample. Moreover, inferring a geologically meaningful “age” from a measured “date” or set of dates is dependent on the geological problem being addressed and the salient assumptions associated with each set of data. We highlight requirements for collateral information that will better constrain the interpretation of 40Ar/39Ar data sets, including those associated with single-crystal fusion analyses, incremental heating experiments, and in situ analyses of microsampled domains. To ensure the utility and viability of published results, we emphasize previous recommendations for reporting 40Ar/39Ar data and the related essential metadata, with the amendment that data conform to evolving standards of being findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR) by both humans and computers. Our examples provide guidance for the presentation and interpretation of 40Ar/39Ar dates to maximize their interdisciplinary usage, reproducibility, and longevity.
Prenatal regenerative fetoscopic interventions for congenital anomalies
Authors: Ruano Rodrigo
Published: July 2020

Fetal intervention has progressed in the past two decades from experimental proof-of-concept to practice-adopted, life saving interventions in human fetuses with congenital anomalies. This progress is informed by advances in innovative research, prenatal diagnosis, and fetal surgical techniques. Invasive open hysterotomy, associated with notable maternal-fetal risks, is steadily replaced by less invasive fetoscopic alternatives. A better understanding of the natural history and pathophysiology of congenital diseases has advanced the prenatal regenerative paradigm. By altering the natural course of disease through regrowth or redevelopment of malformed fetal organs, prenatal regenerative medicine has transformed maternal-fetal care. This review discusses the uses of regenerative medicine in the prenatal diagnosis and management of three congenital diseases: congenital diaphragmatic hernia, lower urinary tract obstruction, and spina bifida.
Not just little adults: preparing a children’s emergency department for COVID-19
Authors: Adamson Jonathan , Bird Chris , Edgworth Kate , Hartshorn Stuart , Jamalapuram Kasyap , Kanani Anand , Mackay Kate , Newton Tina , Stanhope Ben , Wilson Bridget
Published: July 2020

COVID-19 presented unique challenges in preparing our stand-alone children’s emergency department for the pandemic and has demonstrated well the paediatric adage, ‘children aren’t little adults’.
Clinical academic leadership in COVID-19: a rapid response to sharing emerging insights in intensive care
Authors: Rehill Nirandeep , Begley Amanda , Mantell Katie , Roberts C Michael
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has raised a wide range of challenges for health systems around the world and the National Health Service in England has been no exception. A significant proportion of infected cases require intensive care unit support and have a high mortality rate. In the early stages of the pandemic, there was neither an evidence base nor a clinical consensus on the optimal management of patients in this setting.

InterventionsResponding to requests for assistance to address this evidence gap, UCLPartners, an Academic Health Science Partnership, working in collaboration with other organisations including National Institute of Health Research Applied Research Collaboration North Thames, developed a clinical academic team to synthesise clinical learning in real time. This was then disseminated using existing networks and social media to local, regional, national and international clinical teams.

ConclusionAn Academic Health Science Partnership was able to respond quickly through adapting and expediting traditional methods of evidence gathering, supporting organisations to work collaboratively across their networks and so meet an urgent clinical need to the benefit of clinicians and patients.
Paramedic utilization of Vision, Aphasia, Neglect (VAN) stroke severity scale in the prehospital setting predicts emergent large vessel occlusion stroke
Authors: Birnbaum Lee , Wampler David , Shadman Arash , de Leonni Stanonik Mateja , Patterson Michele , Kidd Emily , Tovar Jeanette , Garza Ashley , Blanchard Bonnie , Slesnick Lara , Blanchette Adam , Miramontes David
Published: July 2020

Background

Numerous stroke severity scales have been published, but few have been studied with emergency medical services (EMS) in the prehospital setting. We studied the Vision, Aphasia, Neglect (VAN) stroke assessment scale in the prehospital setting for its simplicity to both teach and perform. This prospective prehospital cohort study was designed to validate the use and efficacy of VAN within our stroke systems of care, which includes multiple comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) and EMS agencies.

Methods

The performances of VAN and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) ≥6 for the presence of both emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO) alone and ELVO or any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) combined were reported with positive predictive value, sensitivity, negative predictive value, specificity, and overall accuracy. For subjects with intraparenchymal hemorrhage, volume was calculated based on the ABC/2 formula and the presence of intraventricular hemorrhage was recorded.

Results

Both VAN and NIHSS ≥6 were significantly associated with ELVO alone and with ELVO or any ICH combined using χ
2
analysis. Overall, hospital NIHSS ≥6 performed better than prehospital VAN based on statistical measures. Of the 34 cases of intraparenchymal hemorrhage, mean±SD hemorrhage volumes were 2.5±4.0 mL for the five VAN-negative cases and 17.5±14.2 mL for the 29 VAN-positive cases.

Conclusions

Our VAN study adds to the published evidence that prehospital EMS scales can be effectively taught and implemented in stroke systems with multiple EMS agencies and CSCs. In addition to ELVO, prehospital scales such as VAN may also serve as an effective ICH bypass tool.
Inconspicuous, recovering, or northward shift: status and management of the white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Bastien G. , Barkley A. , Chappus J. , Heath V. , Popov S. , Smith R. , Tran T. , Currier S. , Fernandez D.C. , Okpara P. , Owen V. , Franks B. , Hueter R. , Madigan D.J. , Fischer C. , McBride B. , Hussey N.E.
Published: July 2020

Although white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) have been considered rare in Atlantic Canada waters, recent sighting records indicate a potentially increasing presence. We combine historical to present sighting data with satellite telemetry tracks of large juvenile and adult white sharks tagged in US (n = 9) and Atlantic Canada waters (n = 17) to show seasonal white shark presence and distribution in Atlantic Canada, returns by individuals over multiple years, and high site fidelity to the region. Telemetry data indicate that white sharks are a more common and consistent occurrence in Canadian waters than previously thought, presenting two potential scenarios: (i) tagging technology is revealing white shark presence that was historically cryptic and (or) (ii) a northward range expansion of white sharks in the Northwest Atlantic, potentially due to climate change, population recovery, and (or) increasing pinniped prey. Given combined sighting and telemetry data indicate a current need for proactive management of white sharks in Atlantic Canada waters, we propose the basis for a management action plan, addressing conservation priorities, management goals, and research incentives while considering the potential for human–shark interactions.
Bending deformation regulates the electronic and optical properties of black phosphorene
Authors: Mu Guang-Yao , Liu Gui-Li , Zhang Guo-Ying
Published: July 2020

The electronic and optical properties of black phosphorene with different bent angle are studied using density functional theory based on the first-principles. Within the scope of our study, it was found that the phosphorene becomes less stable with the increasement of bending deformation. Bending deformation has great impact on the electronic and optical properties on phosphorene. The bandgap degrades a little at [Formula: see text] bent angle, and then increases when the bent angle does not surpass [Formula: see text], after which the bandgap decreases with the increasement of bending deformation. Besides, the bandgap of black phosphorene occurs a direct to indirect transition at [Formula: see text] bent angle. The bandgap calculated by HSE06 is larger than PBE functional, but the law of changes is consistent. By analyzing the density of states, we concluded that all the undeformed and deformed phosphorene structures have a strong sp orbital hybridization. Besides, the p orbits have narrower gap than s orbits, which causes the narrower bandgaps of these structures. From the analysis of optical properties, we concluded that the black phosphorene with [Formula: see text] bent angle has the highest absorption coefficient. All structures under bending deformation have higher reflectivity peak than intrinsic black phosphorene, among these structures, the black phosphorene with [Formula: see text] bent angle has the highest reflectivity. The novel optical property is observed at the [Formula: see text] deformed structure, it stops absorbing (reflecting) light first. Redshift and blueshift phenomena are observed at the highest absorption peak and reflectivity peak.
Application of plasma cleaning process in MEMS filter micro-assembly
Authors: Hu Yuhua , Zhang Yan , Zhou Qin
Published: July 2020

To solve the problems of low efficiency and high void rate in the process of the MEMS filter (die) attach and increase the strength of wire bonding between the die and microwave circuit board, plasma cleaning process was introduced in the micro-assembly process of the MEMS filter switch module. The spreading area of the solder melted on the copper was analyzed before and after the plasma cleaning process. Process parameters including plasma flow, radio frequency time and radio frequency power were optimized by the orthogonal test. It is demonstrated that the plasma cleaning process is effective to decrease the void rates in die attach and enhance the wire bonding strength, thus improve the reliability of the MEMS filter module micro-assembly.
Bifurcation Analysis of the γ-Ricker Population Model Using the Lambert W Function
Authors: Leonel Rocha J. , Taha Abdel-Kaddous
Published: July 2020

In this work, we present the dynamical study and the bifurcation structures of the [Formula: see text]-Ricker population model. Resorting to the Lambert [Formula: see text] function, the analytical solutions of the positive fixed point equation for the [Formula: see text]-Ricker population model are explicitly presented and conditions for the existence and stability of these fixed points are established. The main focus of this work is the definition and characterization of the Allee effect bifurcation for the [Formula: see text]-Ricker population model, which is not a pitchfork bifurcation. Consequently, we prove that the phenomenon of Allee effect for the [Formula: see text]-Ricker population model is associated with the asymptotic behavior of the Lambert [Formula: see text] function in a neighborhood of zero. The theoretical results describe the global and local bifurcations of the [Formula: see text]-Ricker population model, using the Lambert [Formula: see text] function in the presence and absence of the Allee effect. The Allee effect, snapback repeller and big bang bifurcations are investigated in the parameters space considered. Numerical studies are included.
All static spherically symmetric anisotropic solutions for general relativistic polytropes
Authors: Abellán G. , Bargueño P. , Contreras E. , Fuenmayor E.
Published: July 2020

In this work, we develop an algorithm to construct all static spherically symmetric anisotropic solutions for general relativistic polytropes. To this end, we follow the strategy presented by K. Lake in Phys. Rev. D 67 (2003) 104015 to obtain all static spherically symmetric perfect fluid solutions and then extended by L. Herrera el al., Phys. Rev. D 77 (2008) 027502 to the interesting case of locally anisotropic fluids. The formalism here developed requires the knowledge of only one function to generate all possible solutions. To illustrate the method, we obtain formal expressions for the generating functions of known polytopic solutions. Additionally, we obtain the generating function for both the conformally flat and class 1 polytropes.
Cu–W FILM STRUCTURE INFLUENCED BY Ar+ ENERGY AND LOW-ENERGY BEAM FLOW BOMBARD DURING PREPARATION BY TWO-ION-BEAM SPUTTERING
Authors: AI YONG-PING , XIE SHI-KUN
Published: July 2020

The influences of Ar[Formula: see text] energy and low-energy sputtering on the structure of Cu–W thin film prepared by double-ion-beam sputtering are studied. Results show that the Cu–W thin film sputtered by ion beam onto a Cu substrate is in the form of an amorphous tungsten framework mechanically mixed with Cu grains when the Cu-target Ar[Formula: see text] energy is within 1–2[Formula: see text]keV and the W-target Ar[Formula: see text] energy is 3[Formula: see text]keV. The Cu grain size increases slightly, increasing the Cu-target Ar[Formula: see text] energy. When the Ar[Formula: see text] energy increases to the critical value ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]keV), a small amount of Cu is transformed into a single crystal, forming a solid solution with the melting of W. Due to crystal defects and lattice distortion, there is a small shift in the Cu diffraction peak.
Quantum chemical, experimental exploration of biological activity and inhibitory potential of new cytotoxic kochiosides fromKochia prostrata(L.) Schrad
Authors: Irfan Ahmad , Imran Muhammad , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Assiri Mohammed A. , Hussain Ajaz , Khalid Noreen , Ullah Sami , Abbas Ghulam
Published: July 2020

New cytotoxic steroidal glycoside of methanol extract from Kochia prostrata ([Formula: see text]) Schrad was investigated in this study. Bio-guided isolation from ethylacetate fraction of whole plant afforded steroidal glycosides named as 5-ene-dimethylcholest3-O-[Formula: see text]-D-glucoside (Kochioside 1A1), 5-ene-methylcholest3-O-[Formula: see text]-D-glucoside (Kochioside 2A1) and 4-ene-dimethylcholest3-O-[Formula: see text]-D-glucoside (Kochioside 3A1). Their structures were assigned by physical and spectroscopic methods. Kochiosides 1A1–3A1showed inhibitory potential against brine shrimp lethality bioassay with etoposide standard drug. The new steroidal glycoside kochiosides 1A1–3A1showed inhibition values of 8.3201, 8.8205 and 8.2310[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL, respectively with [Formula: see text] compared to standard etoposide [Formula: see text] (7.4625[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL) drug. Moreover, six new derivatives were designed by substituting the –NH2and –OCH3at R1, R2 and R3 positions in the isolated compounds. Herein, various molecular descriptors, frontier molecular orbitals (FMO), electron affinity, ionization potential and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) were carried out to understand the active sites and biological active nature of the new cytotoxic steroidal glycoside kochiosides. The effect of electron donating groups (–NH2and –OCH3) was also investigated on the structural parameters and electronic properties in gas and solvent (DMSO) phases. The energy gap, MEP and reactivity descriptors values demonstrate that the kochioside 3A1retains good reactivity, which is in good agreement with current experimental studies.
Study on the mechanism of furfural to maleic acid oxidized by hydrogen peroxide in formic acid solution
Authors: Hu Aiyun , Wang Xinzhi , Wang Xiang , Peng Qingrui , Wang Haijun
Published: July 2020

Although the conversion of furfural to formic acid oxidized by H2O2 in formic acid is very high, the molecular mechanism remains unknown. This work describes the entire reaction process of the condensation reaction based on the density functional theory (DFT). It is found that H acts as a shuttle throughout most of the basic reaction steps during this transformation. Besides, Baeyer–Villiger oxidation and Baeyer–Villiger rearrangement are also discovered during this process with the opening of furan ring following afterward. The reactants, products and intermediates in the reaction process are optimized; all possible reaction paths are considered as well as the energy barriers to be overcome at each step. Thermochemical data concerned with the conversion of furfural to maleic acid showed that the maximum energy barrier at 378.15[Formula: see text]K was 39.83[Formula: see text]kcal/mol. The results of this study do not only correspond with the existing conclusions about the reaction in question from previous research but also supplement to the study of the pathways and mechanisms of the reaction, which can provide reference and guidance for further research, both experimentally and theoretically.
Target Firm Earnings Management, Acquisition Premium, and Shareholder Gains
Authors: Farooqi Javeria , Jory Surendranath R. , Ngo Thanh N.
Published: July 2020

Using a sample of U.S. domestic deals from 1990 to 2016, we find that bidders adjust the amount of premium paid in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) based on the levels of earnings management at target firms. However, the way a firm manipulates earnings upward matters: earnings management via real activities manipulation is more detrimental than discretionary accruals. As a result, target firms that engage in real earnings management receive lower premiums in M&As, while accruals management has no effect on premiums. Correspondingly, we find that the targets’ M&A announcement-period cumulative abnormal returns are inversely related to their level of real earnings management, while the returns are not related to accruals management. Further analyses confirm that target shareholders’ wealth is not only driven by undervaluation, expected synergy, and managerial hubris, but also reflects bidders’ perception of the target firms’ earnings quality based on real earnings management.
A Lady with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated with Central Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case Report
Authors: Ng Alexandra Hoi Yan , Ng Daniel Kam Hung
Published: July 2020

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboses and cerebrovascular diseases. Herein, we discuss the case of a young 38-year-old Asian lady who was presented with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) shortly after she was diagnosed with SLE. She developed headache, right hemiparesis and sustained an episode of seizure on the first presentation. CVST was diagnosed with plain computed tomography (CT) of the brain and CT venogram. With prompt administration of anticoagulation and immunosuppressant treatment for SLE, she had an excellent neurological recovery. There are many different risk factors for developing CVST in SLE patients. It has been reported in literature that CVST is usually associated with antiphospholipid antibodies but only around 40% of them would have positive antiphospholipid antibodies indicating that there are also other mechanisms contributing to the process [1]. As CVST in SLE is a rare condition, no standardized treatment strategy has been delineated. The main cornerstone of treatment would be anticoagulation and appropriate treatment for SLE as these patients are commonly associated with underlying active SLE. With timely management, the prognosis for CVST in SLE patients is generally favourable.
Hydrocarbon-bearing characteristics of the SB1 strike-slip fault zone in the north of the Shuntuo Low Uplift, Tarim Basin
Authors: Wang Ziyi , Gao Zhiqian , Fan Tailiang , Zhang Hehang , Qi Lixin , Yun Lu
Published: July 2020

The SB1 strike-slip fault zone, which developed in the north of the Shuntuo Low Uplift of the Tarim Basin, plays an essential role in reservoir formation and hydrocarbon accumulation in deep Ordovician carbonate rocks. In this research, through the analysis of high-quality 3D seismic volumes, outcrop, drilling and production data, the hydrocarbon-bearing characteristics of the SB1 fault are systematically studied. The SB1 fault developed sequentially in the Paleozoic and formed as a result of a three-fold evolution: Middle Caledonian (phase III), Late Caledonian–Early Hercynian and Middle–Late Hercynian. Multiple fault activities are beneficial to reservoir development and hydrocarbon filling. In the Middle–Lower Ordovician carbonate strata, linear shear structures without deformation segments, pull-apart structure segments and push-up structure segments alternately developed along the SB1 fault. Pull-apart structure segments are the most favourable areas for oil and gas accumulation. The tight fault core in the centre of the strike-slip fault zone is typically a low-permeability barrier, whilst the damage zones on both sides of the fault core are migration pathways and accumulation traps for hydrocarbons, leading to heterogeneity in the reservoirs controlled by the SB1 fault. This study provides a reference for hydrocarbon exploration and development of similar deep-marine carbonate reservoirs controlled by strike-slip faults in the Tarim Basin and similar ancient hydrocarbon-rich basins.
MicroRNA-99b-5p downregulates protein synthesis in human primary myotubes
Authors: Zacharewicz Evelyn , Kalanon Ming , Murphy Robyn M. , Russell Aaron P. , Lamon Séverine
Published: July 2020

microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of cellular homeostasis and exert their effect by directly controlling protein expression. We have previously reported an age-dependent negative association between microRNA-99b (miR-99b-5p) expression and muscle protein synthesis in human muscle in vivo. Here we investigated the role of miR-99b-5p as a potential negative regulator of protein synthesis via inhibition of mammalian target for rapamycin (MTOR) signaling in human primary myocytes. Overexpressing miR-99b-5p in human primary myotubes from young and old subjects significantly decreased protein synthesis with no effect of donor age. A binding interaction between miR-99b-5p and its putative binding site within the MTOR 3′-untranslated region (UTR) was confirmed in C2C12 myoblasts. The observed decline in protein synthesis was, however, not associated with a suppression of the MTOR protein but of its regulatory associated protein of mTOR complex 1 (RPTOR). These results demonstrate that modulating the expression levels of a miRNA can regulate protein synthesis in human muscle cells and provide a potential mechanism for muscle wasting in vivo.
Correlation between intermediary metabolism,Hspgene expression, and oxidative stress-related proteins in long-term thermal-stressedMytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Feidantsis Konstantinos , Giantsis Ioannis A. , Vratsistas Andreas , Makri Stavroula , Pappa Athanasia-Zoi , Drosopoulou Elena , Anestis Andreas , Mavridou Evangelia , Exadactylos Athanasios , Vafidis Dimitrios , Michaelidis Basile
Published: July 2020

Long-term exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis to temperatures beyond 26°C triggers mussel mortality. The present study aimed to integratively illustrate the correlation between intermediary metabolism, hsp gene expression, and oxidative stress-related proteins in long-term thermally stressed Mytilus galloprovincialis and whether they are affected by thermal stress magnitude and duration. We accordingly evaluated the gene expression profiles, in the posterior adductor muscle (PAM) and the mantle, concerning heat shock protein 70 and 90 ( hsp70 and hsp90), and the antioxidant defense indicators Mn-SOD, Cu/Zn-SOD, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, and the metallothioneins mt-10 and mt-20. Moreover, we determined antioxidant enzyme activities, oxidative stress through lipid peroxidation, and activities of intermediary metabolism enzymes. The pattern of changes in relative mRNA expression levels indicate that mussels are able to sense thermal stress even when exposed to 22°C and before mussel mortality is initiated. Data indicate a close correlation between the magnitude and duration of thermal stress with lipid peroxidation levels and changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the enzymes of intermediary metabolism. The gene expression and increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes support a scenario, according to which exposure to 24°C might trigger reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which is closely correlated with anaerobic metabolism under hypometabolic conditions. Increase and maintenance of oxidative stress in conjunction with energy balance disturbance seem to trigger mussel mortality after long-term exposure at temperatures beyond 26°C. Eventually, in the context of preparation for oxidative stress, certain hypotheses and models are suggested, integrating the several steps of cellular stress response.
Untangling life span and body mass discrepancies in canids: phylogenetic comparison of oxidative stress in blood from domestic dogs and wild canids
Authors: Jimenez Ana G. , Downs Cynthia J.
Published: July 2020

Canids are a morphological and physiological diverse group of animals, with the most diversity found within one species, the domestic dog. Underlying observed morphological differences, there must also be differences at other levels of organization that could lead to elucidating aging rates and life span disparities between wild and domestic canids. Furthermore, small-breed dogs live significantly longer lives than large-breed dogs, while having higher mass-specific metabolic rates and faster growth rates. At the cellular level, a clear mechanism underlying whole animal traits has not been fully elucidated, although oxidative stress has been implicated as a potential culprit of the disparate life spans of domestic dogs. We used plasma and red blood cells from known aged domestic dogs and wild canids, and measured several oxidative stress variables: total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid damage, and enzymatic activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). We used phylogenetically informed general linear mixed models and nonphylogenetically corrected linear regression analysis. We found that lipid damage increases with age in domestic dogs, whereas TAC increases with age and TAC and GPx activity increases as a function of age/maximum life span in wild canids, which may partly explain longer potential life spans in wolves. As body mass increases, TAC and GPx activity increase in wild canids, but not domestic dogs, highlighting that artificial selection may have decreased antioxidant capacity in domestic dogs. We found that small-breed dogs have significantly higher circulating lipid damage compared with large-breed dogs, concomitant to their high mass-specific metabolism and higher growth rates, but in opposition to their long life spans.
Intrathecal injection of brilliant blue G, a P2X7 antagonist, attenuates the exercise pressor reflex in rats
Authors: Estrada Juan A. , Ducrocq Guillaume P. , Kim Joyce S. , Kaufman Marc P.
Published: July 2020

Purinergic 2X (P2X) receptors on the endings of group III and IV afferents play a role in evoking the exercise pressor reflex. Particular attention has been paid to P2X3 receptors because their blockade in the periphery attenuated this reflex. In contrast, nothing is known about the role played by P2X receptors in the spinal cord in evoking the exercise pressor reflex in rats. P2X7 receptors, in particular, may be especially important in this regard because they are found in abundance on spinal glial cells and may communicate with neurons to effect reflexes controlling cardiovascular function. Consequently, we investigated the role played by spinal P2X7 receptors in evoking the exercise pressor reflex in decerebrated rats. We found that intrathecal injection of the P2X7 antagonist brilliant blue G (BBG) attenuated the exercise pressor reflex (blood pressure index: 294 ± 112 mmHg·s before vs. 7 ± 32 mmHg·s after; P < 0.05). Likewise, intrathecal injection of minocycline, which inhibits microglial cell output, attenuated the reflex. In contrast, intrathecal injection of BBG did not attenuate the pressor response evoked by intracarotid injection of sodium cyanide, a maneuver that stimulated carotid chemoreceptors. Moreover, injections of BBG either into the arterial supply of the contracting hindlimb muscles or into the jugular vein did not attenuate the exercise pressor reflex. Our findings support the hypothesis that P2X7 receptors on microglial cells within the spinal cord play a role in evoking the exercise pressor reflex.
Cardiovascular and metabolic responses to passive hypoxic conditioning in overweight and mildly obese individuals
Authors: Chacaroun Samarmar , Borowik Anna , Doutreleau Stephane , Belaidi Elise , Wuyam Bernard , Tamisier Renaud , Pépin Jean-Louis , Flore Patrice , Verges Samuel
Published: July 2020

Although severe intermittent hypoxia (IH) is well known to induce deleterious cardiometabolic consequences, moderate IH may induce positive effects in obese individuals. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of two hypoxic conditioning programs on cardiovascular and metabolic health status of overweight or obese individuals. In this randomized single-blind controlled study, 35 subjects (54 ± 9.3 yr, 31.7 ± 3.5 kg/m2) were randomized into three 8-wk interventions (three 1-h sessions per week): sustained hypoxia (SH), arterial oxygen saturation ([Formula: see text]) = 75%; IH, 5 min [Formula: see text] = 75% – 3 min normoxia; normoxia. Ventilation, heart rate, blood pressure, and tissue oxygenation were measured during the first and last hypoxic conditioning sessions. Vascular function, blood glucose and insulin, lipid profile, nitric oxide metabolites, and oxidative stress were evaluated before and after the interventions. Both SH and IH increased ventilation in hypoxia (+1.8 ± 2.1 and +2.3 ± 3.6 L/min, respectively; P < 0.05) and reduced normoxic diastolic blood pressure (−12 ± 15 and −13 ± 10 mmHg, respectively; P < 0.05), whereas changes in normoxic systolic blood pressure were not significant (+3 ± 9 and −6 ± 13 mmHg, respectively; P > 0.05). IH only reduced heart rate variability (e.g., root-mean-square difference of successive normal R-R intervals in normoxia −21 ± 35%; P < 0.05). Both SH and IH induced no significant change in body mass index, vascular function, blood glucose, insulin and lipid profile, nitric oxide metabolites, or oxidative stress, except for an increase in superoxide dismutase activity following SH. This study indicates that passive hypoxic conditioning in obese individuals induces some positive cardiovascular and respiratory improvements despite no change in anthropometric data and even a reduction in heart rate variability during IH exposure.
Simulations reveal how M-currents and memory-based inputs from CA3 enable single neuron mismatch detection for EC3 inputs to the CA1 subfield of hippocampus
Authors: Berteau Stefan , Bullock Daniel
Published: July 2020

Hippocampal region CA1 operates as an associative mismatch detector, comparing predictive signals from CA3 with signals from EC3 reflecting sensory inputs. This new CA1 pyramidal model shows that biophysical features enable these comparators to switch output between brief bursts for matches and tonic spiking for mismatches. This suggests that cognitive learning models (e.g., predictive coding) may require much less match/mismatch circuitry than commonly assumed. Additional simulations illuminate deficits seen in psychiatric disorders and drug-induced states.
Evaluation of Cardiovascular Risk in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Patients Using Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Analysis
Authors: Skroza Nevena , Mambrin Alessandra , Proietti Ilaria , Balduzzi Veronica , Bernardini Nicoletta , Marchesiello Anna , Michelini Simone , Tolino Ersilia , Volpe Salvatore , Maddalena Patrizia , Ciaramella Antonella , Raimondi Gianfranco , Potenza Concetta
Published: July 2020

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with elevated prevalence of comorbidities, especially metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. We used a tool called Heart Rate Variability (HRV) in order to assess the correlation between HS and alterations of the sympathetic-vagal equilibrium in the autonomic cardiovascular regulation system. We found increased sympathetic activity, associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. HS, according to our results, is an independent cardiovascular risk factor.
TREM-1 and TREM-2 Expression on Blood Monocytes Could Help Predict Survival in High-Grade Glioma Patients
Authors: Kluckova K. , Kozak J. , Szaboova K. , Rychly B. , Svajdler M. , Suchankova M. , Tibenska E. , Filova B. , Steno J. , Matejcik V. , Homolova M. , Bucova M.
Published: July 2020

Objective. In recent years, the role of the modern inflammatory markers TREM-1 (triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells) and HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1 protein) in tumorigenesis has begun to be studied. Their role in gliomas is not clear. The aim of our study was to find the role of inflammation in gliomas. Patients and Methods. In 63 adult patients with gliomas and 31 healthy controls, the expressions of TREM-1 and TREM-2 on CD14+ blood cells (method: flow cytometry) and the levels of soluble sTREM-1, HMGB1, IL-6, and IL-10 (Elisa tests) were analyzed. Results. Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that a TREM-1/TREM-2 ratio was associated with reduced overall survival (HR=1.001, P=0.023). Patients with a TREM-1/TREM-2 ratio above 125 survived significantly shorter than patients with a TREM-1/TREM-2 ratio below 125. The percentage of CD14+ TREM-1+ cells was strongly associated with a plasma IL-6/IL-10 ratio (positively) and with IL-10 (negatively). Conversely, we found a higher percentage of CD14+ TREM-2+ monocytes in better surviving patients; these cells could downregulate the exaggerated inflammation and potentiate the phagocytosis in the tumor. The serum levels of HMGB1 negatively correlated with the percentage of CD14+ TREM-1+ cells and with the TREM-1/TREM-2 ratio. The positive correlation between the serum levels of a late proinflammatory cytokine HMGB1 with the percentage of TREM2+ CD14+ monocytes can be explained as an effort for suppression of systemic inflammation by anti-inflammatory acting CD14+ TREM-2+ cells. Conclusion. We showed that the TREM-1/TREM-2 ratio (expression on the surface of blood monocytes) could help predict prognosis in patients with gliomas, especially in high-grade gliomas, and that systemic inflammation has an impact on the patient’s overall survival. This is the first study that showed that TREM expression on monocytes in peripheral blood could help predict prognosis in patients with gliomas.
RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation of Synthesized Codrug in Combination with Indomethacin, Paracetamol, and Famotidine
Authors: Assali Mohyeddin , Abualhasan Murad , Zohud Nihal , Ghazal Noura
Published: July 2020

Background. Indomethacin is considered a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that could be combined with Paracetamol to have superior and synergist activity to manage pain and inflammation. To reduce the gastric side effect, they could be combined with Famotidine.Methodology. A codrug of Indomethacin and Paracetamol was synthesized and combined in solution with Famotidine. The quantification of the pharmaceutically active ingredients is pivotal in the development of pharmaceutical formulations. Therefore, a novel reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) Q2R1 guidelines. A reverse phase C18 column with a mobile phase acetonitrile: sodium acetate buffer 60 : 40 at a flow rate of 1.4 mL/min and pH 5 was utilized.Results. The developed method showed good separation of the four tested drugs with a linear range of 0.01–0.1 mg/mL (R2 > 0.99). The LODs for FAM, PAR, IND, and codrug were 3.076 × 10−9, 3.868 × 10−10, 1.066 × 10−9, and 4.402 × 10−9 mg/mL respectively. While the LOQs were 9.322 × 10−9, 1.172 × 10−10, 3.232 × 10−9, and 1.334 × 10−8 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the method was precise, accurate, selective, and robust with values of relative standard deviation (RSD) less than 2%. Moreover, the developed method was applied to study thein vitrohydrolysis and conversion of codrug into Indomethacin and Paracetamol.Conclusion. The codrug of Indomethacin and Paracetamol was successfully synthesized for the first time. Moreover, the developed analytical method, to our knowledge, is the first of its kind to simultaneously quantify four solutions containing the following active ingredients of codrug, Indomethacin, Paracetamol, and Famotidine mixture with added pharmaceutical inactive ingredients in one HPLC run.
Mobile Cloud Computing: Taxonomy and Challenges
Authors: Aliyu Ahmed , Abdullah Abdul Hanan , Kaiwartya Omprakash , Hussain Madni Syed Hamid , Joda Usman Mohammed , Ado Abubakar , Tayyab Muhammad
Published: July 2020

Mobile cloud computing (MCC) holds a new dawn of computing, where the cloud users are attracted to multiple services through the Internet. MCC has a qualitative, flexible, and cost-effective delivery platform for providing services to mobile cloud users with the aid of the Internet. Due to the advantage of the delivery platform, several studies have been conducted on how to address different issues in MCC. The issues include energy efficiency in MCC, secured MCC, user-satisfied applications and Quality of Service-aware MCC (QoS). In this context, this paper qualitatively reviews different proposed MCC solutions. Therefore, taxonomy for MCC is presented considering major themes of research including energy-aware, security, applications, and QoS-aware developments. Each of these themes is critically investigated with comparative assessments considering recent advancements. Analysis of metrics and implementation environments used for evaluating the performance of existing techniques are presented. Finally, some open research issues and future challenges are identified based on the critical and qualitative assessment of literature for researchers in this field.