bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political activism and polarization
Authors: Venkatesh Raghul S.
Published: March 2020

I develop a model of activism and polarization in the context of electoral competition. Two candidates simultaneously announce policy platforms and seek the support of ideologically inclined activists. Activists compete to influence electoral outcomes by expending costly support for their respective candidates. The presence of activists always moderates the platform choice of candidates, compared to the case of no activism. The central finding of the paper is that the relationship between partisanship of activists and polarization is ambiguous. As activists become increasingly partisan, polarization of candidate platforms reduces or widens depending on the costs of activism. I present normative conditions under which the presence of activism and increased partisanship among activists are both welfare‐improving for voters. Finally, introducing a public funding option for candidates increases polarization in the political process.
Thinness and fecundability: Time to pregnancy after adolescent marriage in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Hur Jinhee , West Keith P. , Shamim Abu Ahmed , Rashid Mahbubur , Labrique Alain B. , Wu Lee S.F. , Ali Hasmot , Ullah Barkat , Schulze Kerry J. , Klemm Rolf D.W. , Christian Parul
Published: March 2020

Undernutrition may affect fecundability, but few studies have quantified this relationship. In rural Bangladesh, where newlywed couples face strong pressures to become pregnant, we assessed fecundability, estimated by time to pregnancy (TTP), and its association with preconceptional thinness among nulligravid, newlywed female adolescents. During 2001–2002, 5,516 newlywed women aged 12–19 years participated in a home‐based, 5‐weekly surveillance system for 5–6 years to enrol pregnant women into an antenatal vitamin A or β‐carotene supplementation trial. Thinness was defined as a left mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) ≤21.5 versus >21.5 cm. At each visit, staff obtained a monthly history of menstruation. Report of amenorrhea prompted a human chorionic gonadotropin urine test to confirm pregnancy. We derived hazard ratios (with 95% confidence intervals [CI]) for pregnancy and Kaplan–Meier curves for TTP. Ages of women at marriage and pregnancy detection (mean ± standard deviation) were 15.3 ± 1.9 and 17.0 ± 1.9 years, respectively. A total of 82.7% of thinner and 87.3% of better nourished women became pregnant. The unadjusted and multivariable relative hazard of ever becoming pregnant was 0.84 (95% CI [0.78, 0.89]) and 0.86 (95% CI [0.81, 0.92]), respectively, and TTP was 12 weeks longer (median [95% CI]: 63 [58–68] vs. 51 [49–54]) in women whose MUAC was ≤21.5 versus >21.5 cm. In rural Bangladesh, thin adolescent newlywed girls have a lower probability of becoming pregnant and experience a longer time to pregnancy.
Environmental cues for dispersal in a filamentous fungus in simulated islands
Authors: Chan Justin Y. , Bonser Stephen P. , Powell Jeff R. , Cornwell William K.
Published: March 2020

Airborne dispersal is a key part of the life history of many saprotrophic fungi. Theory suggests a transition from growth and resource capture to airborne dispersal at some point as the resource availability in a patch declines, but in the absence of an experimental model system this theory has not been empirically tested. For saprobes, resources are arrayed in an ever‐shifting archipelago of islands with the quality of each island being defined by patch size and resource density. We tracked how Phacidium lacerum, a saprotrophic fungus, allocated resources to dispersal in small and large islands of varying resource density through production of fruiting bodies. We found that Phacidium altered the timing and rate of dispersal allocation in response to both patch size and resource density. On small resource islands, Phacidium drastically increased dispersal allocation after reaching the edge of the patch; if resource density was sufficient, on larger resource islands, Phacidium began allocation to dispersal prior to reaching the edge of the island, suggesting an additional absolute total resource level cue. These results are consistent with a two‐cue model for the switch to allocation to airborne dispersal: 1) absolute resource level controlled by the fungus, 2) the fungus’ perception of patch size. This can be thought of as a mix between a full resource allocation switch (bang–bang) if the fungus perceives the patch is fully occupied with a smaller magnitude early shift (bet‐hedging) if absolute resource level crosses a threshold.
First‐Generation Refugees’ Rejection of Racial Self‐Identification in South Africa: Constructing Non‐Racial Identifications
Authors: Tewolde Amanuel Isak
Published: March 2020

Although racial classification in South Africa has been extensively studied by scholars, little is known about the extent to which post‐apartheid refugees or immigrants reject the South African racial classification system. In particular, there is scant research on Eritrean refugees’ self‐identification patterns within the racially structured South African host society. The current study addresses this lacuna by exploring how first‐generation Eritrean refugees and asylum seekers, who originate from an ethno‐linguistically structured social system, self‐identify. Semi‐structured interviews with 46 participants were conducted. Largely, those who lived in isolated Eritrean ethnic communities rejected identifying by race and instead self‐classified by identities they were familiar with in their home country. The results reported here form only part of a larger study that identified various themes. Four themes were identified in relation to this paper's specific research question: (1) identifying as human; (2) identifying as Eritrean; (3) identifying as Habesha; and (4) identifying as Tigrinya. The paper argues that non‐acculturated and residentially and ethnically isolated individual refugees in South Africa eschew South Africa's racial classification system. The resistance to racialization by new refugees might hold potential for transforming the country's entrenched racial classification system based on Black, White, Coloured, and Indian categories as the social demographics of South Africa change in response to immigration.
Microscopic and functional changes observed with dynamic optical coherence tomography for severe refractory atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab
Authors: Manfredini Marco , Liberati Serena , Ciardo Silvana , Bonzano Laura , Guanti Mario , Chester Johanna , Kaleci Shaniko , Pellacani Giovanni
Published: March 2020

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Recently, dupilumab was approved for moderate‐to‐severe AD. D‐OCT is a noninvasive tool for the characterization of skin diseases.

Objective

To describe the changes observed with D‐OCT in lesional and clinically healthy skin of patients with refractory severe AD under dupilumab treatment.

Methods

We analyzed AD lesions and healthy skin by D‐OCT. Clinical scores of AD severity were assessed at baseline (T0) and after 1 and 3 months of treatment (T1, T2). Descriptive statistics, chi‐square test, and t test were used to compare the analyzed parameters over time and between AD lesions and clinically healthy skin.

Results

At baseline, average EASI was 45.7. During the follow‐up, EASI75 and EASI90 were achieved in 57% and 36% of patients at T1 and 100% and 86% of patients at T2, respectively. Lesional skin D‐OCT parameters related to epidermal remodeling and inflammation evidenced a significant improvement after 1 month of treatment. In clinically healthy skin, D‐OCT parameters improved significantly after 3 months of treatment, especially for collagen remodeling and inflammation.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that the clinical improvement of severe AD patients under dupilumab treatment is correlated with specific D‐OCT changes of patients’ lesional and clinically healthy skin.
Persistent nonregenerative anemia in a 4‐year‐old cat
Authors: Long Mackenzie E. , Mustonen Allison M. , Zitzer Nina C. , Byron Julie K. , Wellman Maxey L. , Cianciolo Rachel E. , Hokamp Jessica A.
Published: March 2020

A 4‐year‐old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented to The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine for a 2‐month history of severe weight loss, lethargy, anemia, and bilaterally hyperechoic kidneys with loss of corticomedullary distinction as reported by the referring veterinarian. Relevant initial laboratory results included severe non‐regenerative normocytic hypochromic anemia, increased blood urea nitrogen, minimally concentrated urine, proteinuria, and an increased urine protein:creatinine ratio. Cytologic evaluation of a bone marrow aspirate revealed a markedly hypocellular marrow with abundant mucinous material. Gelatinous marrow transformation (GMT) was confirmed histologically by the presence of mucinous material in the bone marrow that stained positive for Alcian blue but negative for periodic acid‐Schiff. The cat died despite repeated blood transfusions and supportive care. Gelatinous marrow transformation, immune complex‐mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage were observed on autopsy and histology. It is likely that the development of GMT was secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and that CKD, GMT, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage contributed to the cat's non‐regenerative anemia.
An Auto-Regressive Exogenous-Based Temperature Controller for a Hybrid Thermoplastic Microforming of Surgical Blades From Bulk Metallic Glass
Authors: Dancholvichit Nattasit , Kapoor Shiv
Published: March 2020

Temperature control is critical in manufacturing of the multifacet bulk metallic glass (BMG) knife edge. The temperature control in thermoplastic forming process could make a significant effect on the type of deformation, which ultimately results in the final blade edge shape. The controller selection is based on the knowledge of the model from system identification, the performance of the controllers, and the feasibility of the implementation to the testbed. In this study, temperature control, using fuzzy logic, is implemented along with auto-regressive exogenous, ARX model, which can maintain the steady-state temperature within the range of ±2.5 K. With this proposed controller, experiments have shown similar or better results of multifacet blade geometries than those manufactured using proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. The blade edge samples are successfully manufactured with the average straightness and the edge radius of the blade of 3.66 ± 0.5 μm and 25.7 ± 6 nm, respectively.
Role of β2 Integrins in Neutrophils and Sepsis
Authors: Yuki Koichi , Hou Lifei
Published: March 2020

Sepsis remains medically challenging, with high morbidity and mortality. A novel intervention is urgently needed in the absence of specific, targeted therapy. Neutrophils act as double-edged swords in sepsis; they can help to eradicate microbes, but they also contribute to tissue injury. β2 integrins are critical adhesion molecules that regulate a number of neutrophil functions. β2 integrins consist of four members, namely, αLβ2, αMβ2, αXβ2, and αDβ2.
Gp37 Regulates the Pathogenesis of Avian Leukosis Virus Subgroup J via Its C Terminus
Authors: Li Tuofan , Yao Xiaohui , Li Chunping , Zhang Jun , Xie Quan , Wang Weikang , Lu Hao , Fu Hui , Li Luyuan , Xie Jing , Shao Hongxia , Gao Wei , Qin Aijian , Ye Jianqiang
Published: March 2020

ALV-J can cause severe immunosuppression and myeloid leukemia in infected chickens. However, no vaccine or antiviral drug is available against ALV-J, and the mechanism for ALV-J pathogenesis needs to be elucidated. It is generally believed that
gp85
and
LTR
of ALV contribute to its pathogenesis. Here, we found that the C terminus and the tyrosine motifs (YxxM, ITIM, and ITAM-like) in the CTD of Gp37 of ALV-J could affect the pathogenicity of ALV-J
in vitro
and
in vivo
. The pathogenicity of ALV-J with Gp37 containing ITIM only was significantly less than ALV-J with Gp37 containing both YxxM and ITIM and ALV-J with Gp37 containing both YxxM and ITAM-like. This study highlights the vital role of the C terminus of Gp37 in the pathogenesis of ALV-J and thus provides a new perspective to elucidate the interaction between ALV-J and its host and a molecular basis to develop efficient strategies against ALV-J.
Dimethylsulfoniopropionate Sulfur and Methyl Carbon Assimilation inRuegeriaSpecies
Authors: Wirth Joseph S. , Wang Tao , Huang Qiuyuan , White Robert H. , Whitman William B.
Published: March 2020

Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is abundant in marine environments and an important source of reduced carbon and sulfur for marine bacteria. DMSP is the precursor for the majority of atmospheric dimethylsulfide (DMS), a climatically active gas that connects the marine and terrestrial sulfur cycles. Although research into the assimilation of DMSP has been conducted for over 20 years, the fate of DMSP in microbial biomass is not well understood. In particular, the biosynthesis of methionine from DMSP has been a focal point, and it has been widely believed that most methionine was synthesized via the direct capture of methanethiol. Using an isotopic labeling strategy, we have demonstrated that the direct capture of methanethiol is not the primary pathway used for methionine biosynthesis in twoRuegeriaspecies, a genus comprised primarily of globally abundant marine bacteria. Furthermore, although the catabolism of DMSP by these species varied greatly, the anabolic pathways were highly conserved.
Nucleic Acid-Sensing Toll-Like Receptors Play a Dominant Role in Innate Immune Recognition of Pneumococci
Authors: Famà Agata , Midiri Angelina , Mancuso Giuseppe , Biondo Carmelo , Lentini Germana , Galbo Roberta , Giardina Maria Miriam , De Gaetano Giuseppe Valerio , Romeo Letizia , Teti Giuseppe , Beninati Concetta
Published: March 2020

The pneumococcus is a bacterium that frequently causes infections in the lungs, ears, sinus cavities, and meninges. During these infections, body defenses are triggered by tissue-resident cells that use specialized receptors, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), to sense the presence of bacteria. We show here that pneumococci are predominantly detected by TLRs that are located inside intracellular vacuoles, including endosomes, where these receptors can sense the presence of nucleic acids released from ingested bacteria. Mice that simultaneously lacked three of these receptors (specifically, TLR7, TLR9, and TLR13) were extremely susceptible to lung infection and rapidly died after inhalation of pneumococci. Moreover, tissue-resident macrophages from these mice were impaired in their ability to respond to the presence of pneumococci by producing inflammatory mediators capable of recruiting polymorphonuclear leucocytes to infection sites. This information may be useful to develop drugs to treat pneumococcal infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.
Spatiotemporal modelling of pregabalin prescribing in England with effect of deprivation
Authors: Zheng Ziyu , Taylor Benjamin , Rowlingson Barry , Lawson Euan
Published: March 2020

Objective

This paper aims to understand spatial and temporal trends in pregabalin prescribing and the relationship with deprivation across England at both general practice and clinical commissioning group (CCG) levels.

Design

A set of 207 independent generalised additive models are employed to model the spatiotemporal trend of pregabalin prescribed and dispensed per 1000 population, adjusting for deprivation. The response variable is pregabalin prescribed in milligrams, with weighted Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), geographical location and time as predictors. The set of active prescribing facilities grouped within CCG is the unit of analysis.

Setting

National Health Service open prescribing data; all general practices in England, UK between January 2015 and June 2017.

Population

All patients registered to general practices in England, UK.

Results

Adjusting for deprivation, a North–South divide is shown in terms of prescribing trends, with the North of England showing increasing prescribing rates during the study period on average, while in the South of England rates are on average decreasing. Approximately 60% of general practices showed increasing prescribing rate, with the highest being 4.03 (1.75 for the most decreasing). There were no apparent spatial patterns in baseline prescription rates at the CCG level. Weighted IMD score proved to be statistically significant in 138 of 207 CCGs. Two-thirds of CCGs showed more pregabalin prescribed in areas of greater deprivation. Whether the prescribing rate is high due to high baseline prescription rate or increasing rates needs to be specifically looked at.

Conclusions

The spatial temporal modelling demonstrated that the North of England has a significantly higher chance to see increase in pregablin prescriptions compared with the South, adjusted for weighted IMD. Weighted IMD has shown positive impact on pregabalin prescriptions for 138 CCGs.
Validating the effect of Ondansetron and Mirtazapine In Treating hyperemesis gravidarum (VOMIT): protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ostenfeld Anne , Petersen Tonny Studsgaard , Futtrup Tina Bergmann , Andersen Jon Trærup , Jensen Andreas Kryger , Westergaard Hanne Brix , Pedersen Lars Henning , Løkkegaard Ellen Christine Leth
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Current pharmacological treatment options for hyperemesis gravidarum have been introduced based on scarce evidence and are often not sufficiently effective. Several case reports suggest that mirtazapine, an antidepressant, may be an effective treatment for hyperemesis gravidarum, but so far there are no controlled trials investigating the potential effect of mirtazapine on hyperemesis gravidarum. The antiemetic ondansetron is currently widely used to treat hyperemesis gravidarum despite sparse evidence of effect in pregnant women. This study aims to investigate the effect of mirtazapine on hyperemesis gravidarum while also providing data on the effect of ondansetron.

Methods and analysis

This randomised double-blind placebo-controlled multicentre trial will be conducted in eight Danish hospitals. One hundred and eighty pregnant women referred to secondary care for hyperemesis gravidarum will be randomly allocated to 14-day treatment with either mirtazapine, ondansetron or placebo. Main inclusion criterion will be Pregnancy Unique Quantification of Emesis (PUQE-24) score ≥13 or PUQE-24 score ≥7 if accompanied by weight loss >5% of pre-pregnancy weight or hospitalisation. Participants are eligible regardless of whether other antiemetics, including ondansetron, have been tried. The coprimary outcomes are effects of mirtazapine and ondansetron, respectively, on PUQE-24 score tested hierarchically on day 2 and day 14. Secondary outcomes include, but are not limited to, differences between the three groups in number of daily vomiting episodes, dropout due to treatment failure, use of rescue medication, weight change and side effects.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has been approved by the Regional Committees on Health Research Ethics in the Capital Region of Denmark, the Danish Medicines Agency and the Danish Data Protection Agency. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and submitted to relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03785691
Managing new-onset atrial fibrillation in critically ill patients: a systematic narrative review
Authors: O'Bryan Liam Joseph , Redfern Oliver C , Bedford Jonathan , Petrinic Tatjana , Young J Duncan , Watkinson Peter J
Published: March 2020

Objectives

The aim of this review is to summarise the latest evidence on efficacy and safety of treatments for new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) in critical illness.

Participants

Critically ill adult patients who developed NOAF during admission.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Primary outcomes were efficacy in achieving rate or rhythm control, as defined in each study. Secondary outcomes included mortality, stroke, bleeding and adverse events.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Knowledge on 11 March 2019 to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting treatment efficacy for NOAF in critically ill patients. Data were extracted, and quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and an adapted Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Of 1406 studies identified, 16 remained after full-text screening including two RCTs. Study quality was generally low due to a lack of randomisation, absence of blinding and small cohorts. Amiodarone was the most commonly studied agent (10 studies), followed by beta-blockers (8), calcium channel blockers (6) and magnesium (3). Rates of successful rhythm control using amiodarone varied from 30.0% to 95.2%, beta-blockers from 31.8% to 92.3%, calcium channel blockers from 30.0% to 87.1% and magnesium from 55.2% to 77.8%. Adverse effects of treatment were rarely reported (five studies).

Conclusion

The reported efficacy of beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, magnesium and amiodarone for achieving rhythm control was highly varied. As there is currently significant variation in how NOAF is managed in critically ill patients, we recommend future research focuses on comparing the efficacy and safety of amiodarone, beta-blockers and magnesium. Further research is needed to inform the decision surrounding anticoagulant use in this patient group.
Clinicians’ attitudes to oncology clinical practice guidelines and the barriers and facilitators to adherence: a mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Bierbaum Mia , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Arnolda Gaston , Delaney Geoffrey P , Liauw Winston , Kefford Richard , Tran Yvonne , Nic Giolla Easpaig Bróna , Rapport Frances
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are designed to reduce inappropriate clinical variation and improve the quality of care. Barriers to CPGs include a lack of awareness of CPGs, access to them, time pressures and concerns regarding the evidence underpinning CPG development, implementation and dissemination. The objectives of this study are to assess clinicians’ attitudes to CPGs for cancer treatment and the perceived barriers to and facilitators of CPG adherence in order to inform the implementation of cancer treatment CPGs.

Methods and analysis

A mixed methods study will be conducted using a three-phase, sequential design, with each phase informing the next. In phase 1, a qualitative study using recorded interviews will investigate clinicians’ attitudes to CPGs for cancer treatment and perceptions of barriers and facilitators to CPG adherence (n=30); interview transcripts will be analysed thematically. In phase 2, a survey will quantify the frequency of attitudes, barriers and facilitators identified in phase 1, in a broader clinical sample (n=200). In phase 3, a workshop forum will be held to facilitate discussions examining the implications of phase 1 and 2 findings for cancer CPG implementation strategies (n=40) leading to recommendations for improvements to practice. The workshop discussion will be recorded, and the transcript will be analysed thematically.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received ethics approval in New South Wales, Australia (2019/ETH11722, #52019568810127). Study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and will form part of a doctoral thesis and be presented at national and international conferences.
Clinical research in cancer palliative care: a metaresearch analysis
Authors: Vinches Marie , Neven Anouk , Fenwarth Laurène , Terada Mitsumi , Rossi Giovanna , Kelly Sarah , Peron Julien , Thomaso Muriel , Grønvold Mogens , De Rojas Teresa
Published: March 2020

Objective

This metaresearch of the clinicaltrials.gov database aims to evaluate how clinical research on palliative care is conducted within the setting of advanced cancer.

Methods

Clinicaltrials.gov was searched to identify registered studies recruiting patients with cancer, and investigating issues relevant to palliative care. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C15-PAL (Quality of Life in palliative cancer care patients) questionnaire was taken into account to define the research domains of interest. Studies investigating cancer-directed therapy, management of cancer treatment-related adverse events and diagnostic tests were excluded. Publication status was crosschecked using PubMed.

Results

Of 3950 identified studies, 514 were included. The most frequent reason for exclusion was cancer-directed therapy (2491). In 2007–2012, 161 studies were registered versus 245 in 2013–2018. Included studies were interventional (84%) or observational (16%). Most studies were monocentric (60%), sponsored by academia (79%), and conducted in North America (57%) or Europe (25%). Seventy-nine per cent of studies evaluated a heterogeneous population (>1 tumour type). Interventional studies most frequently investigated systemic drugs (34%), behavioural interventions (29%) and procedures for pain (24%). Pain, quality of life and physical function were the most frequently studied research domains (188, 95 and 52 studies, respectively). The most applied primary outcome measures were efficacy/symptom control (61%), quality of life (14%) and feasibility (12%). Only 16% of the closed studies had published results in PubMed.

Conclusions

Our study describes the heterogeneous landscape of studies conducted to address the issues of patients with advanced cancer in palliative care. Albeit the observed increase in the number of studies over the last decade, the generalisation of the results brought by the existing trials is limited due to methodological issues and lack of reporting. A greater effort is needed to improve clinical research that supports evidence-based palliative cancer care.
Oncolytic vaccinia virus delivering tethered IL-12 enhances antitumor effects with improved safety
Authors: Ge Yan , Wang Haiyan , Ren Jinghua , Liu Weilin , Chen Lingjuan , Chen Hongqi , Ye Junjie , Dai Enyong , Ma Congrong , Ju Songguang , Guo Zong Sheng , Liu Zuqiang , Bartlett David L
Published: March 2020

Immune checkpoint blockade is arguably the most effective current cancer therapy approach; however, its efficacy is limited to patients with “hot” tumors, warranting an effective approach to transform “cold” tumors. Oncolytic viruses (especially properly armed ones) have positive effects on almost every aspect of the cancer–immunity cycle and can change the cancer–immune set point of a tumor. Here, we tested whether oncolytic vaccinia virus delivering tethered interleukin 12 (IL-12) could turn a “cold” tumor into a “hot” tumor while avoiding IL-12’s systemic toxicity. Our data demonstrated that tethered IL-12 could be maintained in the tumor without treatment-induced toxic side effects. Moreover, the treatment facilitated tumor infiltration of more activated CD4+and CD8+T cells and less Tregs, granulocytic myeloid-derivedsuppressor cells, and exhausted CD8+T cells, with increased interferon γ and decreased transforming growth factor β, cyclooxygenase-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor expression, leading to transformed, immunogenic tumors and improved survival. Combined with programmed cell death 1 blockade, vaccinia virus expressing tethered IL-12 cured all mice with late-stage colon cancer, suggesting immediate translatability to the clinic.
Tailoring electronic and optical properties of LaAlO3 by Cu inclusion: a DFT study
Authors: Rizwan M. , Gul S. , Mahmood T. , Shakil M. , Majid A. , Rafique M. , Zafar A.A. , Jin H.B. , Cao C.B.
Published: March 2020

First principles calculations in the context of density functional theory (DFT) provides a platform to investigate the material’s properties in a way to explain the physics of solids. Electronic, structural, and optical properties for pure and Cu-doped LaAlO3 are investigated. The study reveals that the band structure of LaAlO3 after the inclusion of Cu at the La site is affected significantly. Due to the substitution of Cu, there is a decrease in the band gap from 3.02 eV to 2.95 eV. Furthermore, the partial density of states of LaAlO3 changes significantly after Cu doping, which has confirmed the doping effect on intrinsic LaAlO3. The p and d states play a vital role on top of the valence band. The range in which the top of a valence band lies is from 0 eV to –9 eV having a significant effect and it is because of Cu-d states. The optical properties of both pure and doped systems were analyzed. Redshift was observed as absorption edge shifted from 4.5 eV to 4.0 eV and even the refractive index reduces from 2.25 to 1.0, which means the Cu inclusion significantly play its role to tailor optical properties. Hence Cu-doping affects the properties of LaAlO3 and makes it a suitable candidate for use in different optical devices.
Selective perfusion of coronary vasculature in preterm sheep: a methodological innovation undermined by unfavourable operation of the foramen ovale
Authors: Margaryan Rafik , Assanta Nadia , Menciassi Arianna , Burchielli Silvia , Matteucci Marco , Agostini Silvia , Lionetti Vincenzo , Luchi Carlo , Cariati Ettore , Pucci Angela , Coceani Flavio , Murzi Bruno
Published: March 2020

Antenatal cardiac intervention affords new prospects for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Its success, however, may come not only from absence of impediments to blood flow but also from a sufficiently developed cardiac wall. Here, we examined the feasibility to perfuse selectively the fetal coronary circulation for treatment with growth promoting agents. Pregnant sheep (94–114 days gestation, term 145 days) were used. An aortic stop-flow procedure was developed for intracoronary access in the nonexposed fetus and human mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes served as test agents. We found that aortic stop-flow ensures preferential distribution of fluorescent microspheres to the heart. However, intracoronary administration of stem cells or exosomes was detrimental, with fetal demise occurring around surgery or at variable intervals afterwards. Coincidentally, stop-flow caused by itself a marked rise of intraluminal pressure within the occluded aorta along with histological signs of coronary obstruction. We conclude that it is feasible to perfuse selectively the coronary circulation of the preterm fetus, but treatments are not compatible with survival of the animals. The cause for failure is found in the absence of hemodynamic compensation to stop-flow via a left-to-right shunt. This unexpected event is attributed to a largely membranous foramen ovale, characteristic of sheep, that collapses under pressure.
An interior solution with perfect fluid
Authors: Estevez-Delgado Joaquin , Cabrera Jose Vega , Ceballos Joel Arturo Rodriguez , Cleary-Balderas Arthur , Paulin-Fuentes Mauricio
Published: March 2020

Starting from the construction of a solution for Einstein’s equations with a perfect fluid for a static spherically symmetric spacetime, we present a model for stars with a compactness rate of [Formula: see text]. The model is physically acceptable, that is to say, its geometry is non-singular and does not have an event horizon, pressure and speed of sound are bounded functions, positive and monotonically decreasing as function of the radial coordinate, also the speed of sound is lower than the speed of light. While it is shown that the adiabatic index [Formula: see text], which guarantees the stability of the solution. In a complementary manner, numerical data are presented considering the star PSR J0737-3039A with observational mass of [Formula: see text], for the value of compactness [Formula: see text], which implies the radius [Formula: see text] and the range of the density [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the central density and the surface density, respectively. This range is consistent with the expected values; as such, the model presented allows to describe this type of stars.
Theoretical studies on Alpha decay half-lives of Astatine isotopes
Authors: Hosseini S. S. , Hassanabadi H. , Akrawy Dashty T. , Ahmed Ali H.
Published: March 2020

The half-life of a parent nucleus of Astatine isotopes [Formula: see text] decaying via alpha emission is investigated by employing Coulomb and proximity potential model (CPPM) using the WKB barrier penetration probability and other different analytical and semiempirical formulae of Royer, AKRE, Akrawy, RoyerB, MRoyerB, MRenB, SemFIS, VS and SLB. In the calculation of Alpha decay (AD) half-life the available experimental and theoretical [Formula: see text]-values with the total alpha kinetic energy have been considered. The behavior of hindrance factor with the variation of mass numbers of parent nuclei for isotopes in the range [Formula: see text] and the effect of magic number at closed shells were investigated. Through the comparison of obtained results from the systematics with the experimental data, the prediction of SemFIS formula was the best among the studied ones where it shows the minimum standard deviation of 0.829881.
Negative imaginary component of AC magnetic susceptibility, metastable states, and magnetic relaxation in La0.6Sr0.35MnTi0.05O3
Authors: Ulyanov Alexander N. , Hoang Duc-Quang , Kuznetsova Natalia N. , Yu Seong-Cho
Published: March 2020

Off-stoichiometric ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])([Formula: see text]) MnO3 manganite was studied with in-phase (real, [Formula: see text]) and out-of-phase (imaginary, [Formula: see text]) components of ac susceptibility measurements. Short- and long-time relaxation effects, manifested by the revealed negative [Formula: see text], were observed. The effects are explained at the frame of Landau theory of phase transitions where a coexistence of stable and metastable states is considered. It is supposed that the appearance of negative [Formula: see text] is an intrinsic feature of magnetic materials with impurities, defects and vacancies blocking nucleation and growth of new phase.
Concatenated kernel codes
Authors: Selvakumar R. , Pavan Kumar C.
Published: March 2020

Concatenated codes introduced by Forney in 1966 received wide attention due to their extensive usage in space missions. Thereafter, many concatenated codes were constructed on the similar lines and successfully employed in digital communication setup. In this paper, concatenated kernel code is defined. An example of concatenated kernel code and its trellis is constructed to demonstrate the importance of defined code and its computation. For the constructed code, the presence of homomorphism is tested using Blum–Luby–Rubinfeld Linearity test. Further, for the constructed trellis of the example code the properties such as proper, co-proper, biproper, one-to-one, minimal and minimal proper are investigated.
COVID-19 in Singapore: Another story of success
Authors: Yan Yue , Pan Hanshuang , Shao Nian , Xuan Yan , Wang Shufen , Li Weijia , Li Xingjie , Shen Christopher Y. , Chen Xu , Luo Xinyue , Chen Yu , Xu Boxi , Liu Keji , Zhong Min , Xu Xiang , Jiang Yu , Lu Shuai , Ding Guanghong , Cheng Jin , Chen Wenbin
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we develop the Fudan-CCDC model by adding a source term to describe the imported infectors. The model is applied to analyze the situation of COVID-19 in East Asia, and then in Singapore. By data fitting, our model reveals that Singapore has a much higher isolation rate and earlier quarantine measures compared to other countries. We conclude that Singapore has been doing extraordinarily well on epidemic prevention and control. Finally we discuss the specific measures in Singapore’s success, and suggest other countries to learn from the Singapore’s style, so as to be well prepared in the future.
An Overview of the CERN Beamline for Schools Competition
Authors: Aretz Sarah , Beirão da Cruz e Silva Cristóvão , Joos Markus , Schütze Paul , Stanitzki Marcel
Published: March 2020

Since 2014 CERN has been organizing “Beamline for Schools” (BL4S), an international science competition for teams of high school students. The students are asked to propose an experiment that can be realized at a particle beam line. Experienced scientists evaluate the proposals and select two winning teams that are then invited to perform their experiments with the help of professional scientists. This paper provides a brief overview of the competition and presents in more detail the conditions of the beam lines as well as the pool of detectors and instruments that are available to the students. The paper closes with an outlook on the future of the competition.
Moment of Inertia Computation via Analysis of Differential Elements
Authors: Saravanan Nithesh Sanjeevi , Ricardo Bernard
Published: March 2020

This paper explores how the analysis of differential elements and dimensional analysis can simplify the computation of the moment of inertia of certain rigid bodies by exploiting symmetries in these bodies. Integration is used scarcely, if at all, throughout this paper to emphasize the versatility of the method employed.
GRP94 regulates M1 macrophage polarization and insulin resistance
Authors: Song Lili , Kim Do-sung , Gou Wenyu , Wang Jingjing , Wang Ping , Wei Zhiguo , Liu Bei , Li Zihai , Gou Kemian , Wang Hongjun
Published: March 2020

Macrophage polarization contributes to obesity-induced insulin resistance. Glucose-regulated protein 94 (GRP94) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone specialized for folding and quality control of secreted and membrane proteins. To determine the role of GRP94 in macrophage polarization and insulin resistance, macrophage-specific GRP94 conditional knockout (KO) mice were challenged with a high-fat diet (HFD). Glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and macrophage composition were compared with control mice. KO mice showed better glucose tolerance and increased insulin sensitivity. Adipose tissues from HFD-KO mice contained lower numbers of M1 macrophages, with lower expression of M1 macrophage markers, than wild-type (WT) mice. In vitro, WT adipocytes cocultured with KO macrophages retained insulin sensitivity, whereas those cultured with WT macrophages did not. In addition, compared with WT bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs), BMDMs from GRP94 KO mice exhibited lower expression of M1 macrophage marker genes following stimulation with LPS or IFN-γ, and exhibited partially increased expression of M2 macrophage marker genes following stimulation with interleukin-4. These findings identify GRP94 as a novel regulator of M1 macrophage polarization and insulin resistance and inflammation.
Increased fibrotic signaling in a murine model for intra-arterial contrast-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Sharma Amit , Kilari Sreenivasulu , Cai Chuanqi , Simeon Michael L. , Misra Sanjay
Published: March 2020

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a vexing problem, and more than 70 million patients undergo studies using iodinated contrast. The molecular mechanisms responsible for CI-AKI are poorly understood. The goal of the present article was to determine the role of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (SMAD)3 and associated collagen expression in a murine model of intra-arterial CI-AKI. The murine model of CI-AKI after intra-arterial contrast agent administration was created by first performing a partial nephrectomy to induce chronic kidney disease. Twenty-eight days later, 100 μL of contrast agent [iodixanol (320 mg/mL)] or saline were administered via the carotid artery. Two days after contrast administration, compared with saline, average serum creatinine was significantly elevated ( P < 0.05). In the cortex, there was a significant increase in phosphorylated SMAD3 and gene expression of TGF-β1, TGF-β receptor type I, and TGF-β receptor type II at day 2 in the contrast group compared with the saline group. Average gene expressions of connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and −9, and collagen type I-α and type IV-α were significantly increased at 2 days after contrast administration (all P < 0.05). Moreover, there was a decrease in Ki-67 staining in the cortex, with an increase in terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling in the cortex and medulla after contrast administration ( P < 0.05). In the murine intra-arterial CI-AKI model, there was increased hypoxia and TGF-β1/SMAD3 pathway activation and collagen expression, resulting in renal fibrosis. Together, these results suggest that the TGF-β1/SMAD3 pathway could be a potential target in alleviating tissue fibrosis in CI-AKI.
Ginsenoside-Rg1 Rescues Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behaviors via Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Neural Inflammation in Rats
Authors: Li Ye , Wang Liyan , Wang Peng , Fan Cuiqin , Zhang Ping , Shen Jie , Yu Shu Yan
Published: March 2020

Depression is an inflammatory-related condition, with the progression in neuronal damage resulting in major depression disorder. Ginsenoside-Rg1, a sterol extract from the herb Panax ginseng, has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects upon neurodegeneration disorders. However, whether ginsenoside-Rg1 confers antidepressant-like effects on neuroinflammation as associated with depression, as well as the possible mechanism involved in these neuroprotective effects, is currently unclear. In the present report, we show that treatment with ginsenoside-Rg1 (40 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly ameliorated depressive-like behaviors as induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in a rat model of depression. Moreover, these CUMS rats treated with ginsenoside-Rg1 showed reductions in the levels of the oxidative stress products and the activity in the antioxidant stress kinase. Furthermore, CUMS rats treated with ginsenoside-Rg1 showed ameliorated neuroinflammation and associated neuronal apoptosis along with a reduction in dendritic spine atrophy and display of depressive behaviors. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that ginsenoside-Rg1 produces antidepressant-like effects in CUMS-exposed rats; and one of the mechanisms for these antidepressant-like effects of ginsenoside-Rg1 appears to involve protection against oxidative stress and thus the neuronal deterioration resulting from inflammatory responses. These findings provide evidence for the therapeutic potential of ginsenoside-Rg1 in the treatment of stress-related depression.
Influence of Irradiation Temperature on Oxidative and Network Properties of X‐Ray Cross‐Linked Vitamin E Stabilized UHMWPE for Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Mulliez M. A. , Schilling C. , Grupp T. M.
Published: March 2020

Previous studies have shown that increased cross‐link density, reduced free radicals, and increased antioxidant grafting resulting from electron‐beam irradiation at elevated temperatures improved the wear performance and the oxidative stability of vitamin E blended UHMWPE. The current study explores the impact of elevated irradiation temperature on vitamin E blended UHMWPE using X‐ray. We hypothesize that the effects of temperature would be similar to those observed after electron‐beam irradiation due to the relatively high dose rate of X‐rays. Two X‐ray doses of 80 and 100 kGy and two irradiation temperatures, that is, room temperature and 100°C were considered. The reference was Vitelene®, a vitamin E stabilized polyethylene cross‐linked with 80 kGy by e‐beam at 100°C. Oxidation index and oxidation induction time, as well as cross‐link density, gel fraction, and trans‐vinylene index, were determined, as the oxidative and network properties are decisive for the long‐term implant performance. Gel fraction and oxidation induction time were significantly improved subsequently to warm irradiation in comparison with the material irradiated at room temperature. In conclusion, X‐ray irradiation at elevated temperatures resulted in an increase of cross‐linking and oxidative resistance of vitamin E stabilized polyethylene comparable to those of e‐beam irradiated UHMWPE.
Intraocular Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Subretinal Injection Compared with Intravitreal Application of Conbercept in Vitrectomized Rabbit Eyes
Authors: Yao Teng-teng , Jin Xiao-liang , Yang Yuan , Wang Yi-xiao , Zhou Ya-li , He Fang-lin , Wang Zhao-yang
Published: March 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the ocular pharmacokinetic properties of subretinal conbercept injection in vitrectomized rabbit eyes and to compare them with those by intravitreal injection. Methods. The following groups of New Zealand white rabbits received conbercept injections (0.5 mg/0.05 ml): a subretinal group (subretinal injection in vitrectomized eyes), an intravitreal group (intravitreal injection in vitrectomized eyes), and a control group (intravitreal injection in nonvitrectomized eyes). Drug concentrations in the aqueous humor (AH), the vitreous humor (VH), and the retina were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Ophthalmic B-ultrasonography, electroretinogram (ERG), and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were performed to evaluate the safety of subretinal injection. Results. On the 28th day after injection, the drug level in the subretinal group was significantly higher than that in the intravitreal group in the AH (0.90 ± 0.25 μg/ml and 0.11 ± 0.07 μg/ml, P<0.001, respectively) and the VH (5.00 ± 3.86 μg/ml and 0.40 ± 0.34 μg/ml, P=0.016, respectively). The clearance rate from AH and VH exhibited terminal half-life times of 9.88 ± 6.48 days and 6.14 ± 1.69 days by the subretinal application, which were significantly longer than the half-life in AH (3.34 ± 0.58 days, P=0.004) and VH (3.12 ± 0.45 days, P=0.002) by the intravitreal application to the vitrectomized eyes. No significant physiological and anatomical functional changes in the retina were observed after subretinal conbercept injection. Conclusions. Our study indicates that applying conbercept by subretinal injection can reduce the drug clearance rate and sustain a long maintenance period in ocular tissue, which suggests that subretinal conbercept injection may be a potentially valuable treatment option.
Property and Representation of n-Order Pythagorean Matrix
Authors: Song Haizhou , Qiufen Wang
Published: March 2020

Here we study the character and expression of n-order Pythagorean matrix using number theory. Theories of Pythagorean matrix are obtained. Using related algebra skills, we prove that the set which constitutes all n-order Pythagorean matrices is a finitely generated group of matrix multiplication and gives a generated tuple of this finitely generated group (n≤10) simultaneously.
Understanding Construction Contractors’ Intention to Undertake Consummate Performance Behaviors in Construction Projects
Authors: Yan Ling , Guo Liang , Ning Yan
Published: March 2020

Contractors’ consummate performance behavior (CPB) refers to that contractors perform within the spirit of the contract. This is important to improve project performance. However, few studies have investigated why contractors would undertake CPB. Drawing on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study aims to examine which factors influence the intention of CPB. To achieve this, a questionnaire survey was undertaken in China, with 195 valid questionnaires from project managers and contract managers being received. Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. The results show that the intention of CPB is mainly influenced by attitude toward benefit/cooperation/social value, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control. Attitude toward social value has the greatest impact on the intention of CPB, whereas the subjective norm is least effective on the intention of CPB. In addition, three equifinal combinations result in the intention of CPB. Attitude toward cooperation and subjective norm are the core of the contractors’ intention of CPB. These two factors cannot be replaced by other factors.