bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase genes in Antarctic endemic brown alga Ascoseira mirabilis (Ascoseirales, Phaeophyceae): data mining of a de novo transcriptome
Authors: Liu Chenlin , Wang Xiuliang 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The Antarctic endemic brown alga Ascoseira mirabilis is physically and physiologically well adapted to the extreme polar environment. To better understand the molecular strategies associated with stress adaptation, the transcriptome of A. mirabilis was sequenced, and its antioxidant enzyme genes were identified and compared with other algae. A total of 126,576 unigenes with a mean length of 734 bp and N50 of 1174 bp was assembled from the transcriptome data. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that dramatic evolutionary changes had occurred in the brown algal superoxide dismutases (SODs) and class I peroxidases that were not consistent with the phylogeny of the species. Fe/Mn SODs are more prevalent in brown algae than in red and green algae. Two additional Fe-SODs in A. mirabilis were phylogenetically closely related to those of green algae, but not to those in other brown algae. We also identified three A. mirabilis ascorbate peroxidase (APx) genes that had a different origin from other brown algal APxs. The SOD and APx genes specifically identified in A. mirabilis will be crucial for understanding the evolution of the algal antioxidant enzymes that contribute to ecological success under extreme environmental conditions in the Antarctic region.
Reducing sample rejection in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Magwai Thabo , Warasally Zain , Naidoo Naleeni , Gounden Verena 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Objectives
Rejections of clinical chemistry specimens delays the availability of results, which may impact patient management. The study aims to measure sample rejection rate, identify reasons for sample rejection, evaluate the effect of a campaign to reduce rejection rates and discover which clinical units produced the most insufficient specimen.

Methods
The study measured specimen rejection rates and the contributions of different rejection reasons in calendar 2016 and April 2018–March 2019. The study undertook a 7-intervention campaign to reduce specimen rejection during the 2018–2019 intervention period. It compared rejections rates, number of months with rejection rates ≤1.2%, and distribution of rejection reasons between the two year-long intervals. The study also determined the origin for specimens rejected for the most common rejection reason during one month in the second period.

Results
The overall rejection rate fell significantly from 1.4% in pre-intervention period to 1.2% in the intervention period. The number of months with rejection rates within the target range increased significantly from 2 in the post-intervention period to 6 in the intervention period. Insufficient, hemolysed, and ‘too-old’ specimen decreased significantly, however, insufficient specimen remained the most frequent rejection reason. In February 2019, one-third of all insufficient specimen came from neonatal units and 24% from the pediatric units.

Conclusions
Interventions decreased significantly both overall and monthly rejection rates above target levels. Insufficient, hemolysed, ‘too-old’ specimen, became significantly less frequent, however, insufficient specimen remained the most frequent rejection reason. Over a month, most insufficient specimen came from neonatal and pediatric sites.
Measurement of urine albumin by liquid chromatography-isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry and its application to value assignment of external quality assessment samples and certification of reference materials
Authors: Chen Yizhao , Liu Hong , Loh Tze Ping , Liu Qinde , Teo Tang Lin , Lee Tong Kooi , Sethi Sunil Kumar 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Objectives
Urine albumin is measured in clinical laboratories by immunoturbidimetry. However, large biases are observed among the different routine methods. To standardize the measurement of urine albumin, a reference measurement procedure (RMP) and urine albumin certified reference materials (CRMs) are needed.

Methods
A candidate RMP for urine albumin based on liquid chromatography-isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-IDMS/MS) using human serum albumin as calibration standard was developed. Isotope-labeled human albumin was used as internal standard. Urine samples were digested using trypsin and eight resulting “signature” peptides of albumin were quantified by LC-IDMS/MS. The candidate RMP was employed in value assignment of external quality assessment (EQA) samples and certification of urine albumin reference materials. The commutability of the developed CRMs was assessed against patient samples.

Results
The candidate RMP (recovery 101.5–103.2% and CV 1.2–3.3% at about 7–40 mg/L) met optimal performance goal. The lower limit of quantification was 0.03 mg/L as determined by signal-to-noise method. The EQA results from clinical laboratories using different immunoturbidimetric methods were generally comparable with assigned target values determined by the candidate RMP, with albumin concentrations ranging from 5 to 226 mg/L. Urine albumin reference materials (two levels) certified using the candidate RMP showed good commutability in a preliminary study.

Conclusions
With optimal method precision and trueness, as well as comparability with routine methods, the developed RMP may be used for value assignment of EQA samples or certification of reference materials, which are important pillars in urine albumin method standardization.
Reference values of trace elements in blood and/or plasma in adults living in Belgium
Authors: Hoet Perrine , Jacquerye Chantal , Deumer Gladys , Lison Dominique , Haufroid Vincent 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Objectives
Trace elements (TEs) from natural and anthropogenic sources are ubiquitous. Essential or not, their relevance for human health and disease is constantly expanding. Biological monitoring is a widely integrated tool in risk assessment both in occupational and environmental settings. However, the determination of appropriate and accurate reference values in the (specific) population is a prerequisite for a correct interpretation of biomonitoring data. This study aimed at determining the reference distribution for TEs (Al, As, Sb, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Hg, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, Tl, Sn, V, Zn) in the blood and/or plasma of the adult population in Belgium.

Methods
Blood and plasma samples were analyzed for 178 males and 202 females, recruited according to an a priori selection procedure, by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Results
Reference values were established with high confidence for AsT, Cd, Cu, HgT, Mn, Mo, Pb, Sn, Se, Tl and Zn. Compared to previously published data in the Belgian population, a decreasing time trend is observed for Zn, Cd and Pb. Globally, the results also indicate that the current exposure levels to TEs in the Belgian population are similar to those from other recent national surveys.

Conclusions
These reference values and limits obtained through validated analytical and statistical methods will be useful for future occupational and/or environmental surveys. They will contribute to decision-making concerning both public health policies but also exposure assessments on an individual scale.
Development of novel methods for non-canonical myeloma protein analysis with an innovative adaptation of immunofixation electrophoresis, native top-down mass spectrometry, and middle-down de novo sequencing
Authors: Deighan W. Ian , Winton Valerie J. , Melani Rafael D. , Anderson Lissa C. , McGee John P. , Schachner Luis F. , Barnidge David , Murray David , Alexander H. Denis , Gibson David S. , Deery Michael J. , McNicholl Feargal P. , McLaughlin Joseph , Kelleher Neil L. , Thomas Paul M. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Objectives
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant plasma cell neoplasm, requiring the integration of clinical examination, laboratory and radiological investigations for diagnosis. Detection and isotypic identification of the monoclonal protein(s) and measurement of other relevant biomarkers in serum and urine are pivotal analyses. However, occasionally this approach fails to characterize complex protein signatures. Here we describe the development and application of next generation mass spectrometry (MS) techniques, and a novel adaptation of immunofixation, to interrogate non-canonical monoclonal immunoproteins.

Methods
Immunoprecipitation immunofixation (IP-IFE) was performed on a Sebia Hydrasys Scan2. Middle-down de novo sequencing and native MS were performed with multiple instruments (21T FT-ICR, Q Exactive HF, Orbitrap Fusion Lumos, and Orbitrap Eclipse). Post-acquisition data analysis was performed using Xcalibur Qual Browser, ProSight Lite, and TDValidator.

Results
We adapted a novel variation of immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) with an antibody-specific immunosubtraction step, providing insight into the clonal signature of gamma-zone monoclonal immunoglobulin (M-protein) species. We developed and applied advanced mass spectrometric techniques such as middle-down de novo sequencing to attain in-depth characterization of the primary sequence of an M-protein. Quaternary structures of M-proteins were elucidated by native MS, revealing a previously unprecedented non-covalently associated hetero-tetrameric immunoglobulin.

Conclusions
Next generation proteomic solutions offer great potential for characterizing complex protein structures and may eventually replace current electrophoretic approaches for the identification and quantification of M-proteins. They can also contribute to greater understanding of MM pathogenesis, enabling classification of patients into new subtypes, improved risk stratification and the potential to inform decisions on future personalized treatment modalities.
Comprehensive development, implementation and evaluation of industrial exoskeletons
Authors: Bornmann Jonas , Schirrmeister Benjamin , Parth Torsten , Gonzalez-Vargas Jose 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The article describes the designers’ perspectives for development and implementation of industrial exoskeletons. Findings are based on the research and own development of commercial available exoskeletons. The authors describe and emphasize the importance of a user centered design and implementation process.
Effects on ankle power and sound limb load with an active prosthetic foot
Authors: Pröbsting Eva , Altenburg Björn , Schmalz Thomas , Krug Kerstin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The performance of conventional prosthetic feet depends on material and construction principles. Certain powered feet can even generate net positive mechanical work in order to provide an active push-off. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of ankle power on the gait of transfemoral amputees. For this purpose level walking of six transfemoral amputees was analysed with a basic and an active foot and three different power settings of the latter. The results show clear advantages of the active foot in comparison with a basic foot. However, a strong relation of the sound side knee loading parameters with the varied ankle power outputs of the active foot couldn’t be shown.
Design of a 3D printed hybrid mechanical structure for a hand exoskeleton
Authors: Vertongen Jens , Kamper Derek 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Stroke survivors often have difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADLs) due to hand impairments. Several assistive devices have been developed for stroke survivors to assist them with ADLs but most of these devices are difficult to don and doff for a stroke survivor due to highly flexed postures of the wrist and digits. This paper presents a hybrid 3D printed mechanical structure for an assistive hand exoskeleton created for stroke survivors. The design facilitates donning and doffing of the assistive exoskeleton by enabling an approach entirely from the dorsal side of the hand, thereby allowing the fingers to stay flexed. The design criteria, resulting design and the prototype development are presented. The initial prototype of the structure, using a hybrid combination of rigid and flexible materials, was lightweight (only 185 g), while maintaining a high range of motion. Future directions for further improvements and user studies are described.
BrailleRing: a flexible Braille display
Authors: Treml Michael , Busse Dominik , Dünser Andreas , Busboom Mike , Zagler Wolfgang L. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The “BrailleRing” is a refreshable Braille display that allows blind people to read tactile characters on the inside of a rotating ring. Dots are not displayed by moving pins, but by fixed patterns on rotating cuboids. The concept allows for a flexible line-length as well as for a more robust and easy-to-clean device, because it needs far fewer actuators than piezo-electric Braille displays, and these actuators are mechanically isolated from the Braille cells.
Validation method for body-mounted sensor attachments
Authors: Schmidt Katharina , Hochmann David 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Small sensor devices like inertial measurement units enable mobile movement and gait analysis, whereby existing systems differ in data acquisition, data processing, and gait parameter calculation. Concerning the validation, recent studies focus on the captured motion and the influence of sensor positioning with respect to the accuracy of the computed biomechanical parameters in comparison to a reference system. Although soft tissue artifact is a major source of error for skin-mounted sensors, there are no investigations regarding the relative movement between the body segment and sensor attachment itself. The aim of this study is to find an evaluation method and to determine parameters that allow the validation of various sensor attachment types and different sensor positionings. The analysis includes the comparison between an adhesive and strap attachment variant as well as the frontal and lateral sensor placement. To validate different attachments, an optical marker-based tracking system was used to measure the body segment and sensor position during movement. The distance between these two positions was calculated and analyzed to determine suitable validation parameters. Despite the exploratory research, the results suggest a feasible validation method to detect differences between the attachments, independent of the sensor type. To have representative and statistically validated results, further studies that involve more participants are necessary.
Designing a tangible solution to encourage playful hand usage for children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Mittag Christina , Leiss Regina , Lorenz Katharina , Siebold Dagmar 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CCP) benefit from intensive training with the affected side. The SHArKi project strives for a motivational support system, using wristbands with inertial measurements units (IMU) to measure arm function, providing biofeedback as well as motivating stimuli. To consider finger and wrist movements as well, this paper covers concepts for a tangible solution and its first implementation including the gamification development. Finalizations of the demonstrator, an overall functional test as well as concluding feedback from CCP are pending.
Comparison of six different marker sets to analyze knee kinematics and kinetics during landings
Authors: Kerkhoff Annette , Wagner Heiko , Peikenkamp Klaus 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
In motion analysis marker sets or protocols are mostly developed for gait analysis and it has been shown that the marker set used affects the results of gait analysis. These marker sets are also used for the analysis of high dynamic sports movements. Single-leg landings are a common tool to investigate functional knee stability and further to predict injury risks where frontal plane motion and loading seem to play an important role. Until now, it is unknown how the marker sets affect the motion analysis results of such high dynamic movements. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare six different marker sets. Three-dimensional motion and force data of single-leg landings in 12 healthy subjects were collected. Six different marker sets consisting of up to 26 markers and two clusters were simultaneously attached to the subjects’ lower limb and pelvis. The results show that particularly, the knee joint angles in the frontal and transverse plane showed the greatest differences between marker sets with in part contrary joint angle directions and great differences in angle magnitude. In addition, the amount of joint load was dependent on the marker set used for analysis. These results show that one must be careful when interpreting and comparing data of the frontal or transverse plane during high dynamic movements.
Long-term changes in technology acceptance of a robotic system in stroke treatment: a pilot study
Authors: Jankowski Natalie , Ivanova Ekaterina , Wiehe Lea , Wahl Michael 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Objectives
This pilot field study aimed to detect long-term changes in technology acceptance (TAM), user experience (UX) during use of an experimental demonstrator Bi-Manu-Interact (BMI) in stroke rehabilitation.

Methods
In 10 therapy sessions, patients performed a 20 min workout per session with the BMI. Patients with stroke were interviewed after the first (T0) and the 10th training session (T1) with a structured questionnaire about UX, TAM and potential to use the BMI at home. Nine patients (n=4 females) aged 33–78 years (M=60.22; SD=13.17) participated in the study.

Results
After using the BMI no statistically significant differences have been found in UX and TAM (T0 vs. T1). But small to large effect sizes have been found which imply a practical relevance of the differences. The potential to use the BMI at home showed an increase in readiness for at T1 compared to T0.

Conclusion
Descriptive data suggest that familiarity gained through repetitive training sessions. The findings are coherent with previous studies.
Development of the progressive construction in Chinese EFL learners’ written production: From prototypes to marginal members
Authors: Wu Tianqi , Wang Min 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThis study investigates the developmental trajectory of L2 English progressive construction with a focus on frequency, verb-construction contingency and semantic prototypicality. Comparisons were made on the use of the progressive construction in argumentative essays written by Chinese learners at three different proficiency levels and English native speakers. Data of frequency and verb type distribution indicate that L2 learners’ progressive repertoire showed an increase in productivity and variability and a spread from a fixed type to a wider range of verbs. Contingency data demonstrate that, when associating verbs with the progressive, learners’ preference shifted from prototypical progressive verbs which denote specific and dynamic meanings to more marginal members represented by generic verbs. In addition, semantic prototypicality overweighs generality in driving the development of the progressive, which presents an interesting contrast with findings in the verb-argument construction learning literature where semantically general verbs were first predominantly used in the construction.
A study on damping ratio of EPS foam filled CFRP composite tubes
Authors: Chawla Komal , Ray-Chaudhuri Samit 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThis study aims to investigate the damping behavior of the fundamental mode of a foam-filled carbon fibre reinforced polymer composite (CFRP) tube when subjected to base excitations. In particular, expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam balls (with negligible mass) of different sizes are used as fillers in the tube and the enhancement in damping ratio of the fundamental mode w.r.t the empty condition is evaluated for different intensity of base excitation. Shake table tests are performed on cantilever CFRP composite square hollow tube subjected to base excitation with varying amplitudes. The tube is filled with foam balls (of two different sizes) for varying depths of filling (no filling, one-third, two-third, and full). Accelerometers are mounted at different positions along the tube length and at the table to record the accelerations data for evaluation of damping ratio. From the recorded responses, frequency, mode shape and damping ratio of the fundamental mode are evaluated using a well-known approach. The damping ratio is noted to be around 1.41x (times) higher for the completely foam ball (bigger size) filled case under r.m.s base acceleration of 0.3 g when compared with the values corresponding to the empty case. The results suggest that the bigger foam balls enhance the damping ratio significantly without altering the natural frequency owing to additional energy dissipation in friction and impact generated through the sliding and collision of the balls while the tube is in motion.
Pseudo-holomorphic curves: A very quick overview
Authors: Oliveira Gonçalo 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThis is a review article on pseudo-holomorphic curves which attempts at touching all the main analytical results. The goal is to make a user friendly introduction which is accessible to those without an analytical background. Indeed, the major accomplishment of this review is probably its short length.Nothing in here is original and can be found in more detailed accounts such as [6] and [8]. The exposition of the compactness theorem is somewhat different from that in the standard references and parts of it are imported from harmonic map theory [7], [5]. The references used are listed, but of course any mistake is my own fault.
Stress corrosion cracking and precipitation strengthening mechanism in TWIP steels: progress and prospects
Authors: Olugbade Temitope Olumide 
Published: October 2020

AbstractTwinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steels are increasingly receiving wide attention for automotive applications due to their outstanding combination of ductility and strength, which can largely be attributed to the strain hardening effect, formation of mechanical twins during straining, and the presence of manganese (Mn) as an alloying element. However, the premature cracking and sudden failure frequently experienced by the TWIP steels under the combined action of tensile stress and corrosion environment remain a challenge for many material scientists and experts up till now. Driven by this challenge, an overview of the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) susceptibility of high-Mn TWIP steels (under the action of both mechanical loading and corrosion reaction) is presented. The SCC susceptibility of the high-Mn TWIP steels is specifically sensitive to hydrogen embrittlement, which is a major factor influencing the SCC behavior, and is a function of the hydrogen content, lattice-defect density and strength level. Besides, the corrosion susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement may be reduced by suppressing the martensite in the TWIP steels by carbon additions. This review further discusses in detail the precipitation strengthening mechanisms as well as the corrosion behavior of TWIP steel by mechanism.