bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differentiation of multiple system atrophy from Parkinson’s disease by structural connectivity derived from probabilistic tractography
Authors: Abos Alexandra , Baggio Hugo C. , Segura Barbara , Campabadal Anna , Uribe Carme , Giraldo Darly Milena , Perez-Soriano Alexandra , Muñoz Esteban , Compta Yaroslau , Junque Carme , Marti Maria Jose 
Published: November 2019

AbstractRecent studies combining diffusion tensor-derived metrics and machine learning have shown promising results in the discrimination of multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. This approach has not been tested using more complex methodologies such as probabilistic tractography. The aim of this work is assessing whether the strength of structural connectivity between subcortical structures, measured as the number of streamlines (NOS) derived from tractography, can be used to classify MSA and PD patients at the single-patient level. The classification performance of subcortical FA and MD was also evaluated to compare the discriminant ability between diffusion tensor-derived metrics and NOS. Using diffusion-weighted images acquired in a 3 T MRI scanner and probabilistic tractography, we reconstructed the white matter tracts between 18 subcortical structures from a sample of 54 healthy controls, 31 MSA patients and 65 PD patients. NOS between subcortical structures were compared between groups and entered as features into a machine learning algorithm. Reduced NOS in MSA compared with controls and PD were found in connections between the putamen, pallidum, ventral diencephalon, thalamus, and cerebellum, in both right and left hemispheres. The classification procedure achieved an overall accuracy of 78%, with 71% of the MSA subjects and 86% of the PD patients correctly classified. NOS features outperformed the discrimination performance obtained with FA and MD. Our findings suggest that structural connectivity derived from tractography has the potential to correctly distinguish between MSA and PD patients. Furthermore, NOS measures obtained from tractography might be more useful than diffusion tensor-derived metrics for the detection of MSA.
Expansion of LINEs and species-specific DNA repeats drives genome expansion in Asian Gypsy Moths
Authors: Hebert Francois Olivier , Freschi Luca , Blackburn Gwylim , Béliveau Catherine , Dewar Ken , Boyle Brian , Gundersen-Rindal Dawn E. , Sparks Michael E. , Cusson Michel , Hamelin Richard C. , Levesque Roger C. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractTwo subspecies of Asian gypsy moth (AGM), Lymantria dispar asiatica and L. dispar japonica, pose a serious alien invasive threat to North American forests. Despite decades of research on the ecology and biology of this pest, limited AGM-specific genomic resources are currently available. Here, we report on the genome sequences and functional content of these AGM subspecies. The genomes of L.d. asiatica and L.d. japonica are the largest lepidopteran genomes sequenced to date, totaling 921 and 999 megabases, respectively. Large genome size in these subspecies is driven by the accumulation of specific classes of repeats. Genome-wide metabolic pathway reconstructions suggest strong genomic signatures of energy-related pathways in both subspecies, dominated by metabolic functions related to thermogenesis. The genome sequences reported here will provide tools for probing the molecular mechanisms underlying phenotypic traits that are thought to enhance AGM invasiveness.
Increased risk for hypothyroidism associated with carbon monoxide poisoning: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Huang Chien-Cheng , Ho Chung-Han , Chen Yi-Chen , Hsu Chien-Chin , Lin Hung-Jung , Su Shih-Bin , Wang Jhi-Joung , Guo How-Ran 
Published: November 2019

AbstractCarbon monoxide poisoning (COP) may cause injuries to the central nervous and endocrine systems, which might increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism. We wanted to evaluate the association between COP and the risk of developing hypothyroidism because epidemiological data on this potential association are limited. We conducted a nationwide population-based cohort study using the Nationwide Poisoning Database and identified 24,328 COP subjects diagnosed between 1999 and 2012. By matching the index date and age, we selected 72,984 non-COP subjects for comparison. Subjects with thyroid diseases and malignancy before 1999 were excluded. We followed up the two groups of subjects until 2013 and compared the risk of developing hypothyroidism. COP subjects had a significantly higher risk for hypothyroidism than non-COP subjects (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR]: 3.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.2–4.7) after adjusting for age, sex, underlying comorbidities, and monthly income, and the AHR was particular higher in subjects with diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and mental disorder. The increased risk was highest in the first month after COP (AHR: 41.0; 95% CI: 5.4–310.6), and the impact remained significant even after 4 years. In conclusion, COP was associated with an increased risk for hypothyroidism. Further studies regarding the underlying mechanisms are warranted.
Accurate and precise determination of 90Sr at femtogram level in IAEA proficiency test using Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kavasi Norbert , Sahoo Sarata Kumar , Arae Hideki , Aono Tatsuo , Palacz Zenon 
Published: November 2019

AbstractA novel method for the determination of ultra-trace level 90Sr has been recently developed applying thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS). The method includes the chemical separation of Zr (isobaric interference of 90Zr) from the samples followed by determination of 90Sr/88Sr abundance sensitivity (2.1 × 10−10). The analytical performance of this method was assessed in the IAEA-TEL 2017-3 worldwide open proficiency test. For 90Sr determination, tap water and milk powder samples were distributed amongst the participant laboratories with reference values of 11.2 ± 0.3 Bq kg−1 (2.2 ± 0.1 fg g−1) and 99.9 ± 5.0 Bq kg−1 (19.5 ± 1.0 fg g−1), respectively. The stable Sr concentrations were 39.4 ± 0.9 ng g−1 and 2.5 ± 0.1 µg g−1 while the 90Sr/88Sr isotope ratios were 6.47 ± 0.17 × 10−8 and 9.04 ± 0.45 × 10−9 in the tap water and milk powder samples, respectively. For TIMS measurement, 50 mL water and 1 g milk powder samples were taken for analysis. This TIMS method demonstrated an impressive accuracy (relative bias of 4.2% and −2.1%, respectively) and precision (relative combined uncertainty of 4.1% and 7.6%, respectively) when compared with radiometric techniques. For the first time in the history of inorganic mass-spectrometry, 90Sr analysis using a TIMS instrument is confirmed by an independent proficiency test.
Investigation on the pore characteristics of coal specimens with bursting proneness
Authors: Li Yutao , Jiang Yaodong , Zhang Bo , Song Honghua , Dong Wenbo , Wang Pengpeng 
Published: November 2019

AbstractTo achieve further insight into the pore characteristics, the coal specimens with different bursting proneness before and after uniaxial compression failure are tested and compared in this paper. The data of mercury intrusion test is corrected by that of low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and desorption test (LTNAD). The pore size distribution and pore volume of specimens are obtained. The pore compressibility coefficient is determined based on the fractal dimension of pore. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and computed tomography (CT) are combined to evaluated the pore connectivity. The value of pore compressibility coefficient of specimens with high bursting proneness is larger than that of medium bursting proneness. It means more compressibility and abrupt failure under stress. The researches of both SEM and CT indicate that the pore connectivity of specimens with medium bursting proneness is better. The results show that great differences exist in the pore characteristics of specimens with high and medium bursting proneness, and uniaxial compression failure exacerbates the complexity of pore characteristics.
Neutrophil activation causes tumor regression in Walker 256 tumor-bearing rats
Authors: Kuwabara Wilson Mitsuo Tatagiba , Andrade-Silva Jéssica , Pereira Joice Naiara Bertaglia , Scialfa Julieta Helena , Cipolla-Neto José 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe role of neutrophils in cancer is still very contradictory. Several studies have demonstrated the cytotoxic capacity of neutrophils against different types of tumors, by releasing inflammatory cytokines, ROS and activating other immune cells. On the other hand, recent papers have claimed the protumorigenic action of neutrophils, mainly by changing their phenotype and producing cytokines that promote tumor growth. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate neutrophil action and function during tumor development. To do so, we used male Wistar rats inoculated with Walker 256 breast carcinoma. Tumor, circulating neutrophils and bone marrow were studied in the following time points after tumor inoculation: 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, 3 d, 5 d, 7 d, 10 d, and 14 d, in order to analyze neutrophil migration kinetics, circulating neutrophil phenotype and bone marrow response to the tumor growth. Herein, our results demonstrated that W256T was unable to trigger an intratumoral inflammatory response after 5 days of tumor development and consequently, from that point on, prevented neutrophil migration to its microenvironment. Also, the tumor changed circulating neutrophil phenotype by up-regulating inflammation-related genes. Even though circulating neutrophils were entirely able to respond to an inflammatory stimulus, they did not recognize and attack the tumor, allowing the tumor to grow without any immune interference. To promote the entry of neutrophils into the tumor microenvironment, LPS was injected intratumorally. Neutrophil migration and activation due to LPS injection resulted in complete tumor regression in all subjects. In conclusion, activating neutrophils, within the tumor, turned the carcinoma into a recognizable immune target and eliminated it.
Effects of Biochar and Straw Application on the Physicochemical and Biological Properties of Paddy Soils in Northeast China
Authors: Zheng Yu , Han Xiaori , Li Yuying , Yang Jinfeng , Li Na , An Ning 
Published: November 2019

AbstractApplying biochar to soil has been proposed as a strategy to enhance soil quality and crop productivity. To further evaluate the influence of biochar and straw application on soil fertility and crop yield, a five-year fixed site field experiment was conducted in a paddy field in Northeast China. The experimental design included six treatments: control (CK), biochar (C), straw (S), chemical fertilizers (NPK), biochar with chemical fertilizer (CNPK) and straw with chemical fertilizer (SNPK). The results showed that compared with the NPK treatment, CNPK and SNPK significantly increased soil total porosity, soil air permeability coefficient, soil organic carbon (SOC), C/N ratio, soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC)‚ soil microbial biomass nitrogen (SMBN), invertase activity and rice yield. Furthermore, amendment of biochar had a better effect on SOC, C/N ratio, SMBC, and SMBN than that of straw. In addition, SMBC, SOC, and total nitrogen (TN) had significant correlations with soil enzyme activities. Therefore, amendment of biochar with chemical fertilizer is an effective measure to improve rice production and soil quality in the northeast of China.
Generation of a Comprehensive Transcriptome Atlas and Transcriptome Dynamics in Medicinal Cannabis
Authors: Braich Shivraj , Baillie Rebecca C. , Jewell Larry S. , Spangenberg German C. , Cogan Noel O. I. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractCannabinoids are the main medicinal compounds of interest in the plant Cannabis sativa, that are primarily synthesised in the glandular trichomes; found on female floral buds. The content, composition and yield of secondary metabolites (cannabinoids and terpenoids) is influenced by the plant’s genetics and environment. Some initial gene expression experiments have been performed from strains of this plant species that contrasted in cannabinoid production, however the present knowledge about detailed trichome transcriptomics in this species is limited. An extensive transcriptome atlas was generated by RNA sequencing using root, shoot, flower and trichome tissues from a female plant strain (Cannbio-2) and was enhanced with the addition of vegetative and reproductive tissues from a male cannabis plant. Differential gene expression analysis identified genes preferentially expressed in different tissues. Detailed trichomics was performed from extractions specifically from glandular trichomes as well as female floral tissues at varying developmental stages, to identify stage-specific differentially expressed genes. Candidate genes involved in terpene and cannabinoid synthesis were identified and the majority were found to have an abundant expression in trichomes. The comprehensive transcriptome is a significant resource in cannabis for further research of functional genomics to improve the yield of specialised metabolites with high pharmacological value.
Characterization of the dynamics and the conformational entropy in the binding between TAZ1 and CTAD-HIF-1α
Authors: Nyqvist Ida , Dogan Jakob 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe interaction between the C-terminal transactivation domain of HIF-1α (CTAD-HIF-1α) and the transcriptional adapter zinc binding 1 (TAZ1) domain of CREB binding protein participate in the initiation of gene transcription during hypoxia. Unbound CTAD-HIF-1α is disordered but undergoes a disorder-to-order transition upon binding to TAZ1. We have here performed NMR side chain and backbone relaxation studies on TAZ1 and side chain relaxation measurements on CTAD-HIF-1α in order to investigate the role of picosecond to nanosecond dynamics. We find that the internal motions are significantly affected upon binding, both on the side chain and the backbone level. The dynamic response corresponds to a conformational entropy change that contributes substantially to the binding thermodynamics for both binding partners. Furthermore, the conformational entropy change for the well-folded TAZ1 varies upon binding to different IDP targets. We further identify a cluster consisting of side chains in bound TAZ1 and CTAD-HIF-1α that experience extensive dynamics and are part of the binding region that involves the N-terminal end of the LPQL motif in CTAD-HIF-1α; a feature that might have an important role in the termination of the hypoxic response.
Amination of β-hydroxyl acid esters via cooperative catalysis enables access to bio-based β-amino acid esters
Authors: Afanasenko Anastasiia , Yan Tao , Barta Katalin 
Published: November 2019

Abstractβ-amino acid esters are important scaffolds in medicinal chemistry and valuable building blocks for materials synthesis. Surprisingly, the waste-free construction of such moieties from readily available or renewable starting materials has not yet been addressed. Here we report on a robust and versatile method for obtaining β-amino acid esters by direct amination of β-hydroxyl acid esters via the borrowing hydrogen methodology using a cooperative catalytic system that comprises a homogeneous ruthenium catalyst and an appropriate Brønsted acid additive. This method allows for the direct amination of esters of 3-hydroxypropionic acid, a top value-added bio-based platform chemical, opening a simple route to access β-amino acid esters from a range of renewable polyols including sugars and glycerol.
Behind the Scenes of Noninvasive Brain–Computer Interfaces: A Review of Electroencephalography Signals, How They Are Recorded, and Why They Matter
Authors: Pitt Kevin M. , Brumberg Jonathan S. , Burnison Jeremy D. , Mehta Jyutika , Kidwai Juhi 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
Brain–computer interface (BCI) techniques may provide computer access for individuals with severe physical impairments. However, the relatively hidden nature of BCI control obscures how BCI systems work behind the scenes, making it difficult to understand “how” electroencephalography (EEG) records the BCI-related brain signals, “what” brain signals are recorded by EEG, and “why” these signals are targeted for BCI control. Furthermore, in the field of speech-language-hearing, signals targeted for BCI application have been of primary interest to clinicians and researchers in the area of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). However, signals utilized for BCI control reflect sensory, cognitive, and motor processes, which are of interest to a range of related disciplines, including speech science.

Method
This tutorial was developed by a multidisciplinary team emphasizing primary and secondary BCI-AAC–related signals of interest to speech-language-hearing.

Results
An overview of BCI-AAC–related signals are provided discussing (a) “how” BCI signals are recorded via EEG; (b) “what” signals are targeted for noninvasive BCI control, including the P300, sensorimotor rhythms, steady-state evoked potentials, contingent negative variation, and the N400; and (c) “why” these signals are targeted. During tutorial creation, attention was given to help support EEG and BCI understanding for those without an engineering background.

Conclusion
Tutorials highlighting how BCI-AAC signals are elicited and recorded can help increase interest and familiarity with EEG and BCI techniques and provide a framework for understanding key principles behind BCI-AAC design and implementation.
Influence of Foetal Macrosomia on the Neonatal and Maternal Birth Outcome
Authors: Pahlitzsch Tamara Margit Jutta , Hanne Laura , Henrich Wolfgang , Weichert Alexander 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Introduction Foetal macrosomia is associated with various obstetrical complications and is a common reason for inductions and primary or secondary Caesarean sections. The objective of this study is the generation of descriptive data on the mode of delivery and on maternal and foetal complications in the case of foetal macrosomia. The causes and consequences of foetal macrosomia as well as the rate of shoulder dystocia are examined in relation to the severity of the macrosomia.
Patients The study investigated all singleton births ≥ 37 + 0 weeks of pregnancy with a birth weight ≥ 4000 g at the Charité University Medicine Berlin (Campus Mitte 2001 – 2017, Campus Virchow Klinikum 2014 – 2017).
Results 2277 consecutive newborns (birth weight 4000 – 4499 g [88%], 4500 – 4999 g [11%], ≥ 5000 g [1%]) were included. Maternal obesity and gestational diabetes were more common in the case of newborns weighing ≥ 4500 g than newborns weighing 4000 – 4499 g (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001). Women with newborns ≥ 5000 g were more often ≥ 40 years of age (p = 0.020) and multipara (p = 0.025). The mode of delivery was spontaneous in 60% of cases, vaginal-surgical in 9%, per primary section in 14% and per secondary section in 17%. With a birth weight ≥ 4500 g, a vaginal delivery was more rare (p < 0.001) and the rate of secondary sections was increased (p = 0.011). Women with newborns ≥ 4500 g suffered increased blood loss more frequently (p = 0.029). There was no significant difference with regard to the rate of episiotomies or serious birth injuries. Shoulder dystocia occurred more frequently at a birth weight of ≥ 4500 g (5 vs. 0.9%, p = 0.000). Perinatal acidosis occurred in 2% of newborns without significant differences between the groups. Newborns ≥ 4500 g were transferred to neonatology more frequently (p < 0.001).
Conclusion An increased birth weight is associated with an increased maternal risk and an increased rate of primary and secondary sections as well as shoulder dystocia; no differences in the perinatal outcome between newborns with a birth weight of 4000 – 4499 g and ≥ 4500 g were seen. In our collective, a comparably low incidence of shoulder dystocia was seen. In the literature, the frequency is indicated with a large range (1.9 – 10% at 4000 – 4499 g, 2.5 – 20% at 4500 – 5000 g and 10 – 20% at ≥ 5000 g). One possible cause for the low rate could be the equally low prevalence of gestational diabetes in our collective. A risk stratification of the pregnant women (e.g. avoidance of vacuum extraction, taking gestational diabetes into account during delivery planning) is crucial. If macrosomia is presumed, it is recommended that delivery take place at a perinatal centre in the presence of a specialist physician, due to the increased incidence of foetal and maternal complications.
Heilpflanzen aus der arabischen Tradition für die Wundbehandlung und Dermatologie
Authors: Müller Johannes 
Published: November 2019

ZusammenfassungEinige Pflanzen zur Wundbehandlung, die der mittelalterlichen arabischen Tradition entstammen, wurden in Europa bis weit in die Frühe Neuzeit hinein zu diesem Zweck genutzt, sind jedoch heute nahezu vergessen. Sie und ähnliche traditionelle Wundheilpflanzen bieten großes Potenzial nicht nur für die aktuelle Dermotherapie und Wundbehandlung, sondern auch für die zukünftige Suche nach Wirkstoffen.
Video anoscopy: results of routine anal examination during colonoscopies
Authors: Gomes Alexandre , Minata Maurício Kazuyoshi , Jukemura José , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background and study aims Anal examination and video anoscopy (VA) are rarely performed during colonoscopies. The aim of this study is to demonstrate that anal examination and VA provide important information in all routine colonoscopies.
Patients and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 12,151 patients screened by VA which were performed during routine outpatient colonoscopy between 2006 and 2018. The aspects studied were: normal examination; hemorrhoidal disease; thrombosed hemorrhoids; anal fissure; perianal Crohn’s Disease; perianal fistula; condyloma; polyps; neoplasms; stenosis; bleeding.
Results Of the colonoscopies performed on 12,151 patients, 9,364 cases (77.06 %) presented some alterations. Internal I degree hemorrhoids (5911 – 48.65 %); internal hemorrhoids of II, III and IV degrees (2362 – 19.44 %); thrombosed hemorrhoids (120 – 0.99 %); bleeding (56 – 0.46 %); fissure (415 – 3.42 %); perianal fistula (42 – 0.35 %); perianal Crohn’s Disease (34 – 0.28 %); condylomas (18 – 0.15 %); anal stenosis (30 – 0.25 %); other findings (310 – 2.55 %); polyps (62 – 0.51 %), one of which was adenomatous with high-grade dysplasia; four cases of anal canal neoplasia (0.03 %): two cases of squamous cell carcinoma and two cases of adenocarcinoma.
Conclusion The association of routine video anoscopy during colonoscopy improved diagnosis of neoplastic anal lesions, allowed correct classification of the degree of hemorrhoidal disease, helped to confirm the bleeding site and detected other anal pathologies. The main findings were hemorrhoidal diseases, fissures and perianal fistulas. The study suggests that VA should be used in all colonoscopies.