bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognosis and outcome determinants after heart failure diagnosis in patients who underwent aortic valvular intervention
Authors: Kontogeorgos Silvana , Thunström Erik , Pivodic Aldina , Dahlström Ulf , Fu Michael
Published: May 2021

Aims

To study clinical phenotype, prognosis for all‐cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality and predictive factors in patients with incident heart failure (HF) after aortic valvular intervention (AVI) for aortic stenosis (AS).

Methods and results

In this retrospective, observational study we included patients from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry (SwedeHF) recorded 2003–2016, with AS diagnosis and AVI before HF diagnosis. The AS diagnosis was established according to International Classification of Diseases 10th revision (ICD‐10) codes, thus without information concerning clinical or echocardiographical data on the aortic valve disease. The patients were divided into two subgroups: left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50% (AS‐HFpEF) and <50% (AS‐HFrEF). We individually matched three controls with HF from the SwedeHF without AS (control group) for each patient. Baseline characteristics, co‐morbidities, survival status and outcomes were obtained by linking the SwedeHF with two other Swedish registries. We used Kaplan–Meier curves to present time to all‐cause mortality, cumulative incidence function for time to CV mortality and Cox proportional hazards model to evaluate the relative difference between AS‐HFrEF and AS‐HFpEF and AS‐HF and controls. The crude all‐cause mortality was 49.0%, CV mortality 27.9% in AS‐HF patients, respectively 44.7% and 26.6% in matched controls. The adjusted risk for all‐cause mortality and CV mortality was similar in HF, regardless of LVEF vs. controls. No significant difference in factors predicting higher all‐cause mortality was observed in AS‐HFrEF vs. AS‐HFpEF, except for diabetes (only in AS‐HFrEF), with statistically significant interaction predicting death between the two groups.

Conclusions

In this nationwide SwedeHF study, we characterized incident HF population after AVI. We found no significant differences in all‐cause and CV mortality compared with general HF population. They had virtually the same predictors for mortality, regardless of LVEF.
Molecularly Imprinted Electrochemical Sensor for the Detection of Organophosphorus Pesticide Profenofos
Authors: Radi Abd‐Elgawad , Oreba Reham , Elshafey Reda
Published: May 2021

The presence of profenofos (PFF) in food has been strictly limited by legislation due to its genotoxic and toxic effects on health. It is therefore very important to establish simple and rapid analytical methods to detect traces of this insecticide. A reusable molecularly imprinted polypyrrole MIP(O‐PPy) on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) has been developed to measure PFF. The PPy was polymerized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) in the presence of template molecules (PFF) in an acidic solution on a GCE. The various experimental parameters such as film thickness, analyte/monomer ratio, and removal/rebinding requirements were examined and optimized. The signal of the redox probe (ferrocyanide/ferrocyanide) was used for the electrochemical detections. All steps of the sensor manufacturing, removal/rebinding of template molecules, and response to different PFF concentrations were tested by cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The MIP sensor was able to detect PFF in the linear ranges of 1.0×10−9 to 1.0×10−6 M and 1.0×10−9 to 5.0×10−6 M, with detection limits, a signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) of three was used to estimate LOD, of about 1 nM using DPV and EIS, respectively. The MIP (PPy) GCE provided excellent PFF recognition performance and was successfully used to quantify PFF in sweet pepper samples, yielding recoveries not greater than 108 %.
Accelerating Optimizing the Design of Carbon‐based Electrocatalyst via Machine Learning
Authors: Yu Zhuochen , Huang Weimin
Published: May 2021

In this era of artificial intelligence, we urgently want to optimize the current material design methods to come up with a more efficient and more accurate closed‐loop system. The approach requires at least three parts including high‐throughput screening, automated synthesis platform, and machine learning algorithms. Fortunately, the techniques mentioned above have been substantial developed. We have introduced the common algorithms of machine learning. Then, several machine learning‐based design of carbon‐based electrocatalysts are discussed. We tried to illustrate the research norms involving machine learning. Besides, other paper structures and details have been also discussed.
Large‐scale field testing of geotechnical seismic isolation of structures using gravel‐rubber mixtures
Authors: Pitilakis Dimitris , Anastasiadis Anastasios , Vratsikidis Athanasios , Kapouniaris Anastasios , Massimino Maria Rossella , Abate Glenda , Corsico Sebastiano
Published: May 2021

We present the results of a large‐scale experimental campaign performed on the prototype structure of EuroProteas in Thessaloniki, Greece, to assess the effectiveness of gravel‐rubber mixture (GRM) layers underneath shallow foundations as a means of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI). We found that the GSI of structures is optimized by increasing the rubber content of the soil‐rubber mixture up to 30% per mixture weight. The effectiveness of the GSI systems has been investigated numerically and in small‐scale experiments. This article seeks to fill the gap in the lack of full‐scale experimental studies on this subject. Three soil pits were excavated and backfilled with GRM of different rubber content per weight to serve as foundation soil. A large number of instruments were installed on the structure, the foundation, the soil surface, and inside the GRM layers beneath the foundation to fully monitor the GSI‐structure systems’ response in three dimensions. The experimental investigation included ambient noise, free‐ and forced‐vibration tests. Our results showed that a GSI layer composed of a GRM with 30% rubber content effectively isolates the structure. Even 0.5 m thickness (ie, B/6 of the foundation width) of the GSI system successfully cuts off practically all emitted waves at a (horizontal or vertical) distance of B/6 from the foundation. A significant reduction in the GSI‐structure system's stiffness was apparent, leading to a rocking‐dominant response. The rise in the system's damping and the substantial energy dissipation inside the GRM layer highlight its effectiveness as a GSI system.
Bioactive metabolites of Blumea lacera attenuate anxiety and depression in rodents and computer‐aided model
Authors: Hossen Md. Amjad , Ali Reza A.S.M. , Amin Md. Badrul , Nasrin Mst. Samima , Khan Tawhidul Amin , Rajib Md. Habibur Rahman , Tareq Abu Montakim , Haque Md. Anwarul , Rahman Md. Atiar , Haque Md. Areeful
Published: May 2021

Blumea lacera is an edible plant with imperative medicinal values. However, the anxiolytic and antidepressant roles of B. lacera have not been well‐explained. Therefore, the current study aims to explore the impending bioactive metabolites and roles of B. lacera methanol leaf extract (Me‐BLL) in attenuating anxiety and depression through several experimental and computer‐aided approaches. The chemical characterization of Me‐BLL was performed through standard phytochemical and GC‐MS analyses. To explore the neuropharmacological insights, Swiss albino mice were treated with Me‐BLL at doses of 200–400 mg/kg, p.o. The anxiolytic effects were observed employing elevated plus maze (EPM), light–dark box (LDB), and hole‐board (HBT) tests, while antidepressant effects were evaluated using forced swimming (FST) and tail suspension tests (TST). Diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and fluoxetine HCl (20 mg/kg, p.o.) were used as the reference standard. The phytochemical analyses revealed several bioactive metabolites, including higher contents of total phenolics and flavonoids. The EPM and LDB tests demonstrated an increased time spent in open arms and light box, and the HBT showed an increased number of head dipping, indicating the anxiolytic effects of Me‐BLL. The TST and FST revealed a decrease in immobility time, meaning the persuasive antidepressant effects. The antioxidative effects of Me‐BLL have also been observed prominently. Correspondingly, the computer‐aided investigation confirmed several bioactive lead molecules. Specifically, thymol and cuminol revealed potential anxiolytic and antioxidant effects, while stigmast‐5‐en‐3.beta.‐ol and gamma‐sitosterol possessed promising antidepressant effects. Taken these results as a base, the plant has imperative potentials in managing anxiety and depression‐like disorders.
The Shaft Tunnel of the Biar aqueduct of Jerusalem: Architecture, hydrology, and dating
Authors: Yechezkel Azriel , Negev Yoav , Frumkin Amos , Leibner Uzi
Published: May 2021

The Biar aqueduct is the most sophisticated of the aqueducts supplying water to Jerusalem during classical periods. It includes the Biar spring, an underground Shaft Tunnel ∼3 km long harvesting groundwater (cuniculus), a dam, a surface channel, and a tunnel traversing a ridge. We conducted a survey of the Biar underground Shaft Tunnel, mapping all of its accessible parts (∼1200 m), facilitating a new understanding of the cutting‐edge hydrogeologic and engineering skills used for this project. The last ∼536 m of the Biar Shaft Tunnel was constructed with a unique ashlar channel, divided into segments, designed to withstand different loads: (a) in a mechanically weak bedrock, a channel with arched gables and barrel vault specus was built within a hewn winding tunnel, (b) when dug as an open shallow trench, a channel roofed with complex gables of ashlars with drafted margins was built, and (c) to release hydraulic pressure, a channel roofed with alternations of barrel vaults and simple gables set perpendicular to the course of the tunnel was constructed. 14C dating of plaster samples suggests that the Biar aqueduct was built in the mid‐first century CE and renovated in the days of Aelia Capitolina in the second century CE.
Atypical sulcal pattern in boys with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Li Xinwei , Wang Wei , Wang Panyu , Hao Chenru , Li Zhangyong
Published: May 2021

Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are often accompanied by disrupted cortical folding. We applied a quantitative sulcal pattern analysis technique using graph structures to study the atypical cortical folding at the lobar level in ADHD brains in this study. A total of 183 ADHD patients and 167 typical developmental controls matched according to age and gender were enrolled. We first constructed sulcal graphs at the brain lobar level and then investigated their similarity to the typical sulcal patterns. The within‐group variability and interhemispheric similarity in sulcal patterns were also compared between the ADHD and TDC groups. The results showed that, compared with controls, the left frontal, right parietal, and temporal lobes displayed altered similarities to the typical sulcal patterns in patients with ADHD. Moreover, the sulcal patterns in ADHD seem to be more heterogeneous than those in controls. The results also identified the disruption of the typical asymmetric sulcal patterns in the frontal lobe between the ADHD and control groups. Taken together, our results revealed the atypical sulcal pattern in boys with ADHD and provide new insights into the neuroanatomical mechanisms of ADHD.
Environment‐friendly fuel Cymbopogon flexuosus: Analysis of fuel properties, performance, and emission parameters of a Direct Injection Compression Ignition research engine
Authors: Sathiyamoorthi Ramalingam , Sankaranarayanan Gomathinayagam , Venkatraman Mani , Munuswamy Dinesh Babu , Ravisankar Rajendran
Published: May 2021

The novelty of this study  discusses on the influence of neat lemongrass oil (LGO) on fuel analysis, performance and emission analysis, naturally aspirated diesel engine. The critical parameters include iodine value, flash point, kinematic viscosity, saponification and cetane numbers, calorific value, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS) studies were investigated. The oxygenated elements, such as naphthalene, caryophyllene, pentadecanoic acid, dihydropyridine, d‐limonene are observed using GC‐MS analysis. The higher hydrocarbon (HC) chain length indicates a rise in energy density and boiling point with a reduction of volatility. Using FT‐IR analysis, C–H stretching vibrations are found at a frequency of 1672 cm−1. The C≐C stretching vibrations at 1740 cm−1 reveals the availability of the alkenes/fingerprint phase. Experiments were conducted at four different volumetric blend ratios of LGO‐diesel blends at typical injection parameters under different loading conditions. Brake thermal efficiency (BTE) decreased for all the test combinations of LGO than diesel. BTE is observed as 30.79% at diesel, 30.06% at LGO25, 28.71% at LGO50, 27.77% at LGO75%, and 27.23% at LGO100. The cylinder pressure and heat release rate increased proportionately with the LGO fuel mixture. Carbon monoxide, HC, and smoke emissions are reduced by LGO mixtures than diesel at the full load of the engine. It was noted that greater blends of LGO and diesel resulted in increased nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and engine tribological characteristics. The NOx is increased by 21.2% at LGO25, 24.3% at LGO50, 26.5% at LGO75 and 30.8% at LGO100 when compared with diesel. Without any chemical processing, Cymbopogon flexuosus oil can be blended directly with diesel fuel.
Lymph vessels visualization from optical coherence tomography data using depth‐resolved attenuation coefficient calculation
Authors: Moiseev Alexander A. , Sirotkina Marina A. , Potapov Arseny L. , Matveev Lev A. , Vagapova Nailya N. , Kuznetsova Irina A. , Gladkova Natalia D.
Published: May 2021

Multimodal optical coherent tomography grows popularity with researchers and clinicians over the past decade. One of the modalities is lymphangiography, which allows visualization of the lymphatic vessel networks within optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging volume. In the present study, it is shown that lymphatic vessel visualization obtained from the depth‐resolved attenuation coefficient distributions, corrected for the noise, shows improved contrast and detail in comparison with previously proposed approaches. We also argue that the two most popular approaches for lymphatic vessel visualization, namely simple intensity thresholding and vesselness calculation based on local Hessian matrix eigenvalues, imply different definitions of the lymphatic vessel's appearance in the OCT volume and lead to the different networks.
Decellularized grass as a sustainable scaffold for skeletal muscle tissue engineering
Authors: Allan Scott J. , Ellis Marianne J. , De Bank Paul A.
Published: May 2021

Scaffold materials suitable for the scale‐up and subsequent commercialization of tissue engineered products should ideally be cost effective and accessible. For the in vitro culture of certain adherent cells, synthetic fabrication techniques are often employed to produce micro‐ or nano‐patterned substrates to influence cell attachment, morphology, and alignment via the mechanism of contact guidance. Here we present a natural scaffold, in the form of decellularized amenity grass, which retains its natural striated topography and supports the attachment, proliferation, alignment and differentiation of murine C2C12 myoblasts, without the need for additional functionalization. This presents an inexpensive, sustainable scaffold material and structure for tissue engineering applications capable of influencing cell alignment, a desired property for the culture of skeletal muscle and other anisotropic tissues.
Understanding the intermolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition promotion: Activation strain model/energy decomposition analysis model and conceptual density functional theory viewpoints
Authors: Merzoud Lynda , Guégan Frédéric , Chermette Henry , Morell Christophe
Published: May 2021

The present work reports the computational study of the major Diels–Alder reaction between 2‐bromocycloalkenone and a variety of mono‐ and di‐substituted dienes. Through density functional theory (DFT) calculations and subsequent activation strain model/energy decomposition analysis/conceptual DFT (C‐DFT) analyses, the key factors governing the activation barriers heights, and thus reactivity, are characterized. In contrast with a previous study, steric effects do not appear to control reactivity. Conversely, in all presented cases, a subtle interplay between deformation and interaction energies is evidenced at transition states. In the end, neither term alone is enough to explain or predict reactivity. Yet a simple C‐DFT descriptor allows to predict with a reasonable efficiency the activation barriers: the excitation energy needed to observe a charge transfer from the diene to the dienophile. Theoretical elements are provided to support the use of this descriptor.
MiR‐133a‐3p attenuates resistance of non‐small cell lung cancer cells to gefitinib by targeting SPAG5
Authors: Li Qing , Wang Yueming , He Jingdong
Published: May 2021

Background

Gefitinib is an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI), clinically used to treat patients with non‐small cell lung cancer driven by EGFR mutations. Unfortunately, EGFR‐TKI resistance has become a clinical problem for the effective treatment of NSCLC patients. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect and mechanism of miR‐133a‐3p on the gefitinib sensitivity of NSCLC cells.

Methods

The gefitinib‐resistant PC9 (PC9/GR) cells were established through repeated long‐term exposure to gefitinib for half a year. Then, PC9/GR cells were transfected with miR‐133a‐3p mimics and PC9 cells were transfected with miR‐133a‐3p inhibitors to increase or decrease the expression of miR‐133a‐3p. CCK‐8 assay, colony formation assay, and caspase‐3 activity assay were employed to detect cell resistance to gefitinib. Quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting were used to evaluate the levels of miR‐133a‐3p, SPAG5, and other related genes. Starbase database was used to predict the target gene of miR‐133a‐3p and the prognosis of NSCLC patients. Target gene of miR‐133a‐3p was verified through dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay.

Results

MiR‐133a‐3p was significantly downregulated in gefitinib‐resistant cell line PC9/GR vs. gefitinib‐sensitive cell line PC9. Overexpression of miR‐133a‐3p increased the sensitivity of NSCLC cells to gefitinib and vice versa. Furthermore, SPAG5 is an important target gene of miR‐133a‐3p, and SPAG5 can reverse miR‐133a‐3p‐mediated gefitinib sensitivity of NSCLC cells.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that miR‐133a‐3p/SPAG5 axis played a vital role in acquired resistance to gefitinib in NSCLC cells, and miR‐133a‐3p may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of human NSCLC.
A novel clinically relevant graft-versus-leukemia model in humanized mice
Authors: Jia Bei , Zhao Chenchen , Bayerl Michael , Shike Hiroko , Claxton David F , Ehmann W Christopher , Mineishi Shin , Schell Todd D , Zheng Pan , Zhang Yi , Shultz Leonard D , Prabhu K Sandeep , Paulson Robert F , Zheng Hong
Published: May 2021

The prognosis for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapse post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is dismal. Novel effective treatment is urgently needed. Clinical benefit of alloSCT greatly relies on the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. The mechanisms that mediate immune escape of leukemia (thus causing GVL failure) remain poorly understood. Studies of human GVL have been hindered by the lack of optimal clinically relevant models. Here, using our large, longitudinal clinical tissue bank that include AML cells and G-CSF mobilized donor hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), we successfully established a novel GVL model in humanized mice. Donor HSCs were injected into immune-deficient NOD-Cg-PrkdcscidIL2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ (NSG) mice to build humanized mice. Immune reconstitution in these mice recapitulated some clinical scenario in the patient who received the corresponding HSCs. Allogeneic but HLA partially matched patient-derived AML cells were successfully engrafted in these humanized mice. Importantly, we observed a significantly reduced (yet incomplete elimination of) leukemia growth in humanized mice compared with that in control NSG mice, demonstrating a functional (but defective) GVL effect. Thus, for the first time, we established a novel humanized mouse model that can be used for studying human GVL responses against human AML cells in vivo. This novel clinically relevant model provides a valuable platform for investigating the mechanisms of human GVL and development of effective leukemia treatments.
Association Between T2* Relaxation Times Derived From Ultrashort Echo Time MRI and Symptoms During Exercise Therapy for Patellar Tendinopathy: A Large Prospective Study
Authors: Breda Stephan J. , de Vos Robert‐Jan , Poot Dirk H. J. , Krestin Gabriel P. , Hernandez‐Tamames Juan A. , Oei Edwin H. G.
Published: May 2021

Background

Exercise therapy is considered preferential treatment for patellar tendinopathy (PT). However, there is conflicting evidence for structural patellar tendon adaptation in response to exercise therapy and its association with symptoms is weak.

Purpose

To assess the association between 1) T2* relaxation times and symptom severity; 2) baseline T2* and clinical outcome; and 3) longitudinal T2* changes and clinical outcome in athletes with PT performing exercise therapy.

Study Type

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Subjects

Seventy‐six athletes (18–35 years) with clinically diagnosed and ultrasound‐confirmed PT.

Field strength/Sequence

3D gradient echo sequence (3.0 T).

Assessment

Patients were enrolled in a randomized trial of progressive tendon‐loading exercises (PTLE) versus eccentric exercise therapy (EET). Symptoms were assessed using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment (VISA‐P) questionnaire. 3D‐Ultrashort echo time (UTE)‐MRI was acquired at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks. Voxel‐wise T2* relaxation times were quantified using mono‐exponential and bi‐exponential models. T2* analysis was performed in three patellar tendon tissue compartments representing: aligned collagen, degenerative tissue, and interface.

Statistical Tests

Adjusted general linear, mixed‐linear models, and generalized estimating equations.

Results

We included 76 patients with PT (58 men, mean age 24 ± 4 years); 38 in the PTLE‐group and 38 in the EET‐group, of which 57 subjects remained eligible for analysis. T2* relaxation times were significantly associated with VISA‐P in degenerative and interface tissues of the patellar tendon. No association was found between baseline T2* and VISA‐P after 24 weeks (P > 0.29). The estimated mean T2* in degenerative tissue decreased from 14 msec (95%CI: 12–16) at baseline to 13 msec (95%CI: 11–15) at 12 weeks and to 13 msec (95%CI: 10–15) at 24 weeks. The significant decrease in T2* from baseline to 24 weeks was associated with improved clinical outcome.

Data Conclusion

Tissue‐specific T2* relaxation times, identified with 3D‐UTE‐MRI, decreased significantly in athletes with patellar tendinopathy performing exercise therapy and this decrease was associated with improved clinical outcome.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4
Trabectedin suppresses osteosarcoma pulmonary metastasis in a mouse tumor xenograft model
Authors: Inoue Masahiro , Horiuchi Keisuke , Susa Michiro , Taguchi Eiko , Ishizaka Takahiro , Rikitake Hajime , Matsuhashi Yusuke , Chiba Kazuhiro
Published: May 2021

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone tumor that mainly affects adolescents and young adults. Although standard treatment modality can achieve up to 60%–70% 5‐year survival rate, there has not been any substantial improvement over the past four decades. Furthermore, those presenting with pulmonary metastatic lesions often undergo a highly unfavorable clinical course. Therefore, there is a severely unmet clinical need to provide a more effective treatment for patients with OS. In this study, we show that trabectedin (TBD), a chemotherapeutic agent approved for soft tissue sarcomas, significantly suppresses pulmonary metastasis in a mouse OS xenograft model. In vitro experiments revealed that TBD suppresses cell migration potentially by downregulating the activity of ERK1/2, intracellular molecules that are critically involved in the regulation of cell motility. Collectively, our data may provide a basis for further investigation of TBD on the potential use for OS patients who are at great risk of pulmonary metastasis.
The Požarevac loess–paleosol sequence: a record of increased aridity in the south‐eastern margin of the Carpathian Basin during the last 350 ka
Authors: Marković Slobodan B. , Oches Eric A. , Perić Zoran M. , Gaudenyi Tivadar , Jovanović Mlađen , Sipos Györgi , Thiel Christine , Buylaert Jan‐Pieter , Savić Stevan , McCoy William D. , Radaković Milica G. , Marković Rastko S. , Gavrilov Milivoj B.
Published: May 2021

The loess sequence preserved in the Požarevac brickyard in north‐eastern Serbia comprises eight loess units separated by seven paleosols. Geochronological investigation using amino acid racemization and luminescence dating support stratigraphic correlations of loess units L3, S2LL1 and L1 at the Požarevac section with loess of glacial cycles E [Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 10], D (MIS 9–8), C (MIS 7–6) and B (MIS 5–2) across central Europe. Correlation with the marine oxygen‐isotope stratigraphy and associated paleoclimatic inferences are further supported by magnetic susceptibility, particle size and carbonate content measured in Požarevac sediments. Malacological investigations at the Požarevac section reveal the continuous presence of the Chondrula tridens and Helicopsis striata faunal assemblages throughout the last 350 ka. The loess malacological fauna, which is characterized by the complete absence of cold‐resistant and cold‐preferring species, suggests a stable, dry and relatively warm glacial and interglacial climate, compared with other central European loess localities. Together these data suggest that the south‐eastern part of the Carpathian (Pannonian, Middle Danube) Basin was a refugium for warm‐preferring and xerophilous land‐snails during the generally unfavorable glacial climates of the late Middle and Late Pleistocene.
Simulation of ν2 Raman band of methane as a function of pressure
Authors: Tanichev Aleksandr S. , Petrov Dmitry V.
Published: May 2021

The in situ analysis of natural gas is one of the most promising applications of Raman spectroscopy. It is necessary to take into account the pressure effect on the spectrum of methane to improve the accuracy of this technique. This study aimed to develop and verify two methods for simulating the ν2 Raman band of methane at any spectral resolution and pressure. The first method was based on the use of the spectroscopic parameters of each single line (position, intensity, broadening, and shift coefficient). The second one was based on the use of the spectral profiles, each of which replaces a group of lines. The data required for the implementation of each method are presented in this work. A comparison of the calculated and measured spectra with a resolution of ~0.5 and ~7 cm−1 was performed. It was shown that the differences do not exceed 5% for each method in the range of 1–60 atm.
In situ oral lubrication and smoothness sensory perception influenced by tongue surface roughness
Authors: Wang Xingqun , Chen Jianshe , Wang Xinmiao
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

The human tongue is important in the oral processing of food and in sensory perception. Tongue topography could influence delicate differences in sensory perception. It is hypothesized that tongue surface roughness could alter oral lubrication status and affect perception of smoothness. Fifteen participants with varying levels of tongue surface roughness were recruited and tested. Participants' in situ oral lubrication status without and after consumption of fluid food (milk with varying fat content and maltodextrin solutions with different shear viscosities) was measured. Participants' smoothness sensory scores were also recorded.

RESULTS

The in situ friction coefficient (0.299–1.505) was significantly positively correlated with tongue‐surface roughness (54.6–140.0 μm) in all types of test fluid samples across participants. Oral lubrication was significantly decreased when participants consumed the test fluid samples compared with no liquid food consumption, for all test fluid sample types (P < 0.05). No significant differences in in situ friction coefficient were found after participants consumed different test fluid samples, and this was mainly attributed to the limited quantities of fluid residuals in the oral cavity after expectoration. Participants whose tongue surface roughness differed did not exhibit significant differences in smoothness perception with different test fluid samples.

CONCLUSION

Tongue surface roughness has a strong impact on in situ oral lubrication, and fluid food intake reduces in situ oral lubrication significantly. Saliva film and tongue surface roughness might play greater roles in oral lubrication and smoothness sensory perception if fluid is expectorated after consumption. The association between oral physiology and texture perception still needs further elucidation. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Liver Transplantation in Children with Urea Cycle Disorders: The Importance of Minimizing Waiting Time
Authors: Ziogas Ioannis A. , Wu W. Kelly , Matsuoka Lea K. , Pai Anita K. , Hafberg Einar T. , Gillis Lynette A. , Morgan Thomas M. , Alexopoulos Sophoclis P.
Published: May 2021

Liver transplantation (LT) for children with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) is capable of correcting the enzymatic defect and preventing progressive neurologic injury. We describe the characteristics and outcomes of pediatric LT recipients with UCDs. We identified all pediatric (<18 years) LT candidates with UCDs in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database (February 2002 to September 2020). Multivariable Cox and logistic regression were used to determine risk factors for graft loss and cognitive delay, respectively. Of 424 patients, 1.9% (8/424) experienced waitlist mortality and 95.0% underwent LT (403/424). The most frequently encountered UCDs in our cohort were ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (46.2%), citrullinemia (20.3%), and argininosuccinic aciduria (ASA; 12.9%). The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year graft survival rates were 90.4%, 86.3%, and 85.2%, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed a decreased risk of graft loss with increasing weight at LT (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94‐0.99; P = 0.02), male sex (aHR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.28‐0.85; P = 0.01), and ASA diagnosis (aHR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.09‐0.98; P = 0.047), when adjusting for location (intensive care/hospital/home) and graft type (both P ≥ 0.65). In multivariable logistic regression, waitlist time (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.10; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.17; P = 0.009) and male sex (aOR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.02‐2.88; P = 0.04) were associated with increased odds of long‐term cognitive delay. Waitlist duration is associated with a long‐term risk of cognitive delay. Given excellent long‐term outcomes, early LT evaluation should be considered in all children with UCDs to prevent progressive neurologic injury and optimize cognitive outcomes.
Structure‐Property Relationship of Polyimide Fibers with High Tensile Strength and Low Dielectric Constant by Introducing Benzimidazole and Trifluoromethyl Units
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Zhang Junying , Niu Hongqing , Wu Dezhen , Zhang Mengying , Han Enlin , Jing Sheng , Sun Xiaoguang , Fan Chao
Published: May 2021

Copolyimide (co‐PI) fibers with high strength and low dielectric constant are synthesized and prepared by introducing 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)‐4,4′‐diaminobiphenyl (TFMB) and 2‐(4‐aminophenyl)‐5‐aminobenzimidazole (BIA) diamines into the rigid backbones. The resultant fibers not only exhibited excellent mechanical properties with a tensile strength of 2.627 GPa and an initial modulus of 96.786 GPa, but also possessed a dielectric constant as low as 2.433 at 10 GHz. The existence of intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding interaction is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which has been considered as the leading factor responsible for the significantly improved mechanical properties of the co‐PI fibers. 2D wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (2D WAXD) is adopted to investigate the variation on the aggregation structure of PI fibers after the incorporation of fluorine group. The fibers with more TMFB content possessed a higher orientation degree together with a larger free volume fracture due to the combined effects of enhanced flexibility and the volume effect of trifluoromethyl groups. Meanwhile, the prepared PI fibers exhibit a 5% weight loss temperature ranging from 543 to 533 °C in the nitrogen atmosphere and a glass transition temperature ranging from 334 to 317 °C, revealing high thermal stability of co‐PI fibers.
Crosslinked Polydicyclopentadiene Nanoparticles via Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly Approach
Authors: Mei Honggang , Zhao Bingjie , Wang Huaming , Zheng Sixun
Published: May 2021

In this communication, the preparation of crosslinked polydicyclopentadiene (PDCPD) nanoparticles via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP)‐induced self‐assembly approach is reported. For the ROMPs, the macromolecular chain transfer agents (Macro‐CTAs) are synthesized via the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone (CL) with cis‐2‐butene‐1,4‐diol as the initiator. The ROMPs are performed with chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, toluene, 1,4‐dioxane, and N,N‐dimethylacetamide as the solvents, respectively, which are catalyzed with Grubbs second generation catalyst. It is found that the crosslinked PDCPD nanoparticles are obtained with spherical, cylindrical to planar morphologies, depending on the molecular weights of Macro‐CTAs, the concentrations of DCPD and the natures of solvents. The polymerization induced self‐assembly (ROMPISA) by the use of a non‐norbornene‐based macromolecular chain transfer agent provides a new and efficient approach to prepare crosslinked polymer nanoparticles.
The Impact of Dietary Intake and Physical Activity on Body Composition in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Rivadeneyra Jessica , Verhagen Okker , Bartulos Monica , Mariscal‐Pérez Natividad , Collazo Carla , Garcia‐Bustillo Alvaro , Calvo Sara , Cubo Esther
Published: May 2021

Background

Skeletal muscle loss has been associated with declining physical performance and a negative prognostic effect on falls, disability, and mortality risk in Parkinson's disease.

Objectives

We aimed to analyze the clinical correlates associated with skeletal muscle wasting in Parkinson's disease.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional, case–control, observational study. We collected information on dietary intake with a 24‐hour recall questionnaire, body composition with bioelectrical impedance, motor severity with the Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale, and physical activity with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. We used multivariate linear regression analysis to analyze the sociodemographic and clinical correlates associated with skeletal muscle loss after adjusting for confounding variables.

Results

Forty‐three patients with Parkinson's disease and 21 matched family members were included. Patients and family members had similar body composition, anthropometrics, and nutritional parameters. Advanced patients had similar nutrient intakes compared to patients with mild‐to‐moderate Parkinson's disease. In the multivariate linear regression analysis, female patients with low physical activity and low energy intake were more likely to have skeletal muscle loss.

Conclusions

Skeletal muscle wasting is a complex multifactorial problem. Dietary strategies and physical exercise should be recommended, especially to females with Parkinson's disease, to prevent significant skeletal muscle wasting.
Mendelian Randomisation Finds No Causal Association between Urate and Parkinson's Disease Progression
Authors: Coneys Rachel , Storm Catherine S. , Kia Demis A. , Almramhi Mona , Wood Nicholas W.
Published: May 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative movement disorder. Observational studies suggest higher levels of plasma urate may protect against Parkinson's risk and progression; however, causality cannot be established.

Objectives

This study set out to determine whether there is a true causal association between urate levels and PD age at onset (AAO) and progression severity using recently released PD AAO and progression genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data.

Methods

A large two‐sample Mendelian randomization design was employed, using genetic variants underlying urate levels and the latest GWAS data for PD outcomes.

Results

This study found no causal association between urate levels and Parkinson's risk, AAO, or progression severity.

Conclusions

Our results predict increasing urate levels as a therapeutic strategy is unlikely to benefit PD patients. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Tremor and Parkinsonism in Chromosomopathies — A Systematic Review
Authors: Carvalho Vanessa , Ferreira Joaquim J. , Correia Guedes Leonor
Published: May 2021

The landscape of genetic forms of Parkinson's diseases (PD) has grown exponentially in recent years. Today, around 10% of PD cases are estimated to be of genetic etiology. However, the link between parkinsonism or tremor and chromosome disorders, both numerical and structural, has been neglected. We reviewed the occurrence and characteristics of parkinsonism and tremor syndromes in patients with chromosomic disorders. We searched PubMed for articles published until December 2018, using the non‐MESH terms “Chromosomopathy,” “karyotype,” “chromosome,” “aneuploidy,” “deletion,” “inversion,” “insertion,” “duplication,” and “Parkinson,” “Parkinsonism,” “Tremor,” and “Parkinsonian disorder.” We restricted the search to human studies and selected articles for further analysis after abstract review. Tremor syndromes in which patients had another possible clinical reason for syndromes were excluded, as well as tremor syndromes associated with point mutations, imprinting syndromes, and patients presenting with other hyperkinetic disorders. Fifty‐four articles were reviewed. Aneuploidies of sex chromosomes were the most common chromosomopathy. These patients more commonly exhibited postural and kinetic tremor, often meeting the description of essential tremor. In structural chromosomopathies, the most frequent association was PD and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, but we found case reports and case series of several additional deletion and duplication syndromes. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Global uniqueness of an inverse problem for stochastic degenerate wave equation with three unknowns
Authors: Yan Lin
Published: May 2021

This paper concerns an inverse problem for a stochastic degenerate wave equation. This inverse problem aims to determine a source term and an initial displacement and an initial velocity from the boundary observation and the final time observation. More precisely, we will prove a global uniqueness for our inverse problem by a suitable Carleman estimate for the stochastic degenerate wave equation.
A compact low insertion loss Ka‐band GaAs MMIC traveling wave switch with absorptive characteristic
Authors: Jiang Yan , Tang Wanchun , Zhang Hai , Feng Linping , Shi Yongrong
Published: May 2021

In this articel, a compact single‐pole double‐throw traveling wave switch is proposed and fabricated using 0.15 μm‐pHEMT GaAs technology. The switch obtained an insertion loss less than 2 dB, and the isolation is better than 28 dB in the core passband. The excellent return losses performances at all the ports are good obtained especially for the isolation port from 30 to 40 GHz. The return losses of isolated port is better than around 5 dB. To demonstrate the design conception, a prototype of the proposed switch is fabricated with a size of 0.97 × 0.77 mm2 including all the pads. There is a good agreement between the simulated and measured results. To the best of our knowledge, this is the neoteric GaAs MMIC traveling‐wave switch topology with the good absorptive characteristic.
Technical Note: 4D robust optimization in small spot intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT) for distal esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Feng Hongying , Shan Jie , Ashman Jonathan B. , Rule William G. , Bhangoo Ronik S. , Yu Nathan Y. , Chiang Jennifer , Fatyga Mirek , Wong William W. , Schild Steven E. , Sio Terence T. , Liu Wei
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To compare the dosimetric performances of small‐spot three‐dimensional (3D) and four‐dimensional (4D) robustly optimized intensity‐modulated proton (IMPT) plans in the presence of uncertainties and interplay effect simultaneously for distal esophageal carcinoma.

Method and Materials

Thirteen (13) patients were selected and re‐planned with small‐spot ( ~ 2–6 mm) 3D and 4D robust optimization in IMPT, respectively. The internal clinical target volumes (CTVhigh3d, CTVlow3d) were used in 3D robust optimization. Different CTVs (CTVhigh4d, CTVlow4d) were generated by subtracting an inner margin of the motion amplitudes in three cardinal directions from the internal CTVs and used in 4D robust optimization. All patients were prescribed the same dose to CTVs (50 Gy[RBE] for CTVhigh3d/CTVhigh4d and 45 Gy[RBE] for CTVlow3d/CTVlow4d). Dose–volume histogram (DVH) indices were calculated to assess plan quality. Comprehensive plan robustness evaluations that consisted of 300 perturbed scenarios (10 different motion patterns to consider irregular motion (sampled from a Gaussian distribution) and 30 different uncertainties scenarios (sampled from a 4D uniform distribution) combined), were performed to quantify robustness to uncertainties and interplay effect simultaneously. Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Compared to 3D robustly optimized plans, 4D robustly optimized plans had statistically improved target coverage and better sparing of lungs and heart (heart Dmean, P = 0.001; heart V30Gy[RBE], P = 0.001) in the nominal scenario. 4D robustly optimized plans had better robustness in target dose coverage (CTVhigh4d V100%, P = 0.002) and the protection of lungs and heart (heart Dmean, P = 0.001; heart V30Gy[RBE], P = 0.001) when uncertainties and interplay effect were considered simultaneously.

Conclusions

Even with small spots in IMPT, 4D robust optimization outperformed 3D robust optimization in terms of normal tissue protection and robustness to uncertainties and interplay effect simultaneously. Our findings support the use of 4D robust optimization to treat distal esophageal carcinoma with small spots in IMPT.
Part consolidation for additive manufacturing: A multilayered topology optimization approach
Authors: Crispo Luke , Kim Il Yong
Published: May 2021

Part consolidation (PC) is becoming a viable cost savings approach due to the increased design freedom associated with industry adoption of additive manufacturing. However, there is little research focused on mathematical approaches for assembly level design generation, with most work aimed at providing best practices for merging several parts into one. This article presents a novel topology optimization approach to PC that determines the ideal number of parts, their geometry, and optimal joining pattern, without bias towards the original assembly. Multiple layered design domains are created, and a joining domain that determines the connections between parts is introduced. A multiobjective problem statement optimizes the complex trade‐off between compliance, support structure volume, surface area, and number of joints, to minimize the total cost of the final assembly. Design variable initialization and boundary condition placement are discussed for problems with multiple domains. Three test cases are presented and solved for a range of cost trade‐offs to demonstrate optimized solutions as design objectives are varied.
Examining user perspective of an online learning resource for physiotherapists: A mixed methods study of the TRAIN program
Authors: Scrivener Katharine , Akkermans Jake , Svanetti Sean , Szilas Chloe , Robson Matthew , Love Sherrie
Published: May 2021

Background

Implementing task specific training is a commonly reported challenge for less experienced therapists. A potential method to improve the ability of recent graduate and student therapists is to upskill regarding task specific training via an online education resource.

Purpose

To evaluate the use and acceptability of the TRAIN program as an online learning resource for physiotherapists.

Methods

Data from Google Analytics was sourced to determine use of the program and details about the users. Users of the TRAIN program were also invited to complete two surveys; prior to beginning and upon completion of the program. The surveys collected information about the demographics of the users, perceptions of usefulness of the online resource and overall sentiment.

Results

Almost 6000 new users interacted with the TRAIN modules during the 15‐months study period. The surveys indicated a high level of usability (mean score 9/10, SD 1.5) and clinical utility (mean score 8.8/10, SD 1.6) of the TRAIN program. Perceived knowledge and user confidence in implementing task‐specific training was higher for those users completing the post compared to those completing the pre‐module survey (knowledge 1.9 and confidence 1.7 out of 10 points higher). Recurring comments in the open‐ended feedback pertained to the usefulness, clarity, and ease of use of the TRAIN program.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the use and acceptability of the TRAIN program as an online learning resource for physiotherapists. This further contributes to the growing body of literature indicating online learning is generally a well‐received teaching tool for physiotherapists.