bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vacuum stability with radiative Yukawa couplings
Authors: Gabrielli Emidio , Marzola Luca , Müürsepp Kristjan , Ouyang Ruiwen
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We explore the electroweak vacuum stability in the framework of a recently proposed paradigm for the origin of Yukawa couplings. These arise as low energy effective couplings radiatively generated by portal interactions with a hidden, or dark, sector at the one-loop level. Possible tree-level Yukawa couplings are forbidden by a new underlying symmetry, assumed to be spontaneously broken by the vacuum expectation value of a new scalar field above the electroweak scale. As a consequence, the top Yukawa interaction ceases to behave as a local operator at energies above the new sector scale and, therefore, cannot contribute to the running of the quartic Higgs coupling at higher energies. By studying two complementary scenarios, we explicitly show that the framework can achieve the stability of the electroweak vacuum without particular tuning of parameters. The proposed mechanism requires the existence of a dark sector and new portal messenger scalar interactions that, connecting the Standard Model to the dark sector fields, could be tested at the LHC and future collider experiments.
Path integral complexity and Kasner singularities
Authors: Caputa Pawel , Das Diptarka , Das Sumit R.
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We explore properties of path integral complexity in field theories on time dependent backgrounds using its dual description in terms of Hartle-Hawking wavefunctions. In particular, we consider boundary theories with time dependent couplings which are dual to Kasner-AdS metrics in the bulk with a time dependent dilaton. We show that holographic path integral complexity decreases as we approach the singularity, consistent with earlier results from holographic complexity conjectures. Furthermore, we find examples where the complexity becomes universal i.e., independent of the Kasner exponents, but the properties of the path integral tensor networks depend sensitively on this data.
Taming triangulation dependence of T6/ℤ2 × ℤ2 resolutions
Authors: Faraggi A. E. , Nibbelink S. Groot , Heredia M. Hurtado
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Resolutions of certain toroidal orbifolds, like T6/ℤ2× ℤ2, are far from unique, due to triangulation dependence of their resolved local singularities. This leads to an explosion of the number of topologically distinct smooth geometries associated to a single orbifold. By introducing a parameterisation to keep track of the triangulations used at all resolved singularities simultaneously, (self-)intersection numbers and integrated Chern classes can be determined for any triangulation configuration. Using this method the consistency conditions of line bundle models and the resulting chiral spectra can be worked out for any choice of triangulation. Moreover, by superimposing the Bianchi identities for all triangulation options much simpler though stronger conditions are uncovered. When these are satisfied, flop-transitions between all different triangulations are admissible. Various methods are exemplified by a number of concrete models on resolutions of the T6/ℤ2× ℤ2 orbifold.
Integrin-linked kinase (ILK): the known vs. the unknown and perspectives
Authors: Górska Agata , Mazur Antonina Joanna
Published: January 2022

Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a multifunctional molecular actor in cell–matrix interactions, cell adhesion, and anchorage-dependent cell growth. It combines functions of a signal transductor and a scaffold protein through its interaction with integrins, then facilitating further protein recruitment within the ILK–PINCH–Parvin complex. ILK is involved in crucial cellular processes including proliferation, survival, differentiation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis, which reflects on systemic changes in the kidney, heart, muscle, skin, and vascular system, also during the embryonal development. Dysfunction of ILK underlies the pathogenesis of various diseases, including the pro-oncogenic activity in tumorigenesis. ILK localizes mostly to the cell membrane and remains an important component of focal adhesion. We do know much about ILK but a lot still remains either uncovered or unclear. Although it was initially classified as a serine/threonine-protein kinase, its catalytical activity is now questioned due to structural and functional issues, leaving the exact molecular mechanism of signal transduction by ILK unsolved. While it is known that the three isoforms of ILK vary in length, the presence of crucial domains, and modification sites, most of the research tends to focus on the main isoform of this protein while the issue of functional differences of ILK2 and ILK3 still awaits clarification. The activity of ILK is regulated on the transcriptional, protein, and post-transcriptional levels. The crucial role of phosphorylation and ubiquitylation has been investigated, but the functions of the vast majority of modifications are still unknown. In the light of all those open issues, here we present an extensive literature survey covering a wide spectrum of latest findings as well as a past-to-present view on controversies regarding ILK, finishing with pointing out some open questions to be resolved by further research.
Evidenzbasierte Off-label-Anwendung von Arzneimitteln bei Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Male Christoph , Neubert Antje , Grytli Helene , Gradwohl Christina , Strommer Barbara , Lagler Florian B. , Rascher Wolfgang , Halvorsen Thomas , de Wildt Saskia N. , van der Zanden Tjitske M.
Published: January 2022

Trotz verbesserter gesetzlicher Rahmenbedingungen bei der Entwicklung von Arzneimitteln (AM) für Kinder bestehen für viele pädiatrische Therapiebereiche und v. a. die jüngsten Altersgruppen immer noch große Defizite in der AM-Versorgung. Daher müssen viele AM für Kinder außerhalb der Zulassung (off-label) und somit ohne pädiatrische Fachinformationen angewendet werden. Dadurch besteht ein erhöhtes Risiko für inadäquate Dosierungen sowie fehlende oder unerwünschte Wirkungen. In der Off-label-Anwendung haben Verschreibende eine erhöhte Verantwortung, auf die bestverfügbare Evidenz zurückzugreifen, um altersentsprechende Dosierungen zu wählen sowie Nutzen und Risiko zu bewerten. Dieser Verantwortung können einzelne Verschreibende kaum gerecht werden, weil die wenigen verfügbaren pädiatrischen Daten oft von heterogener Qualität und nicht unmittelbar verfügbar sind.

Das internationale Konsortium von Kinderformularien stellt eine Kollaboration in derzeit vier europäischen Ländern dar (Niederlande, Deutschland, Österreich, Norwegen) dar und baut auf dem niederländischen Kinderformularium auf. Das Konsortium hält AM-Informationen für Kinder und Jugendliche, basierend auf bestverfügbarer Evidenz, bereit; diese werden anhand von systematischen Recherchen, kritischen Evaluationen, ExpertInnenreviews, internationaler Harmonisierung sowie regelmäßigen Aktualisierungen erstellt und transparent referenziert. Die Plattform ist webbasiert und Nutzern in der jeweiligen Landessprache frei zugänglich.

Das internationale Konsortium von Kinderformularien bietet die Grundlage der Off-label-Anwendung von AM bei Kindern und Jugendlichen, um nach bestverfügbarer Evidenz altersentsprechende Dosierungen zu wählen sowie Nutzen und Risiko abzuwägen.
Die neue Parkinson-Schmerzklassifikation (PSK)
Authors: Mylius V. , Perez Lloret S. , Brook C. S. , Krüger M. T. , Hägele-Link S. , Gonzenbach R. , Kassubek J. , Bohlhalter S. , Lefaucheur J. P. , Timmermann L. , Kägi G. , Brugger F. , Ciampi de Andrade D. , Möller J. C.
Published: January 2022

Hintergrund

Chronische Schmerzen sind ein häufiges nichtmotorisches Symptom beim Patienten mit M. Parkinson.

Ziel der Arbeit

Da die Zuordnung von Schmerzen bei Parkinson-Patienten nicht einfach ist, haben wir eine neue Parkinson-Schmerzklassifikation (PSK) mit einem zugehörigen Fragebogen validiert und nun ins Deutsche übersetzt.

Methoden

Zunächst kann der Zusammenhang von Schmerzen mit der Parkinson-Erkrankung anhand von vier Fragen festgestellt werden, bevor die weitere hierarchisch aufgebaute Unterteilung in eine von drei Schmerzkategorien erfolgt (neuropathisch, nozizeptiv und noziplastisch).

Ergebnisse

Bei 77 % der Patienten (122/159) der initialen Validierungsstudie lagen Parkinson-assoziierte Schmerzen vor, wobei bei 87 (55 %) Patienten nozizeptive, bei 36 (22 %) noziplastische und bei 24 Patienten (16 %) neuropathische Schmerzen vorlagen. Die Studie zeigte eine hohe Validität des Schmerzfragebogens bei einer moderaten Intra- und Interraterreliabilität. Die deutsche Version des Fragebogens wurde nach Anpassungen bei 30 Patienten angewendet.

Diskussion

Der PSK-Fragebogen ist ein valides und reliables Werkzeug, um Parkinson-assoziierten Schmerz von nicht-Parkinson-assoziiertem Schmerz zu unterscheiden und die Schmerzen einer Kategorie zuzuordnen, was die weitere Diagnostik und Therapie erleichtert.
Protein use efficiency and stability of baking quality in winter wheat based on the relation of loaf volume and grain protein content
Authors: Laidig Friedrich , Hüsken Alexandra , Rentel Dirk , Piepho Hans-Peter
Published: January 2022

Key message

A novel approach based on the loaf volume–grain protein content relation is suggested to consider the static protein use efficiency and stability as efficient quality-related descriptors for wheat varieties.

The most important trait for baking quality of winter wheat is loaf volume (V). It is mostly determined by grain protein content (GPC) and quality. New varieties with a high potential of grain protein use efficiency (ProtUE) are very important for reducing the surplus use of nitrogen fertilizer in areas where nitrogen leaching is large. This is also an important goal of agricultural policies in the European Union. Additionally, ProtUE needs to be very stable across environments in the face of progressing climate change with more volatile growing conditions. We evaluated a new approach to assess ProtUE and stability based on the V–GPC relationship instead of using only single traits. The study comprised 11,775 baking tests from 355 varieties grown 1988–2019 in 668 different environments in Germany. V was predicted by quadratic and linear regression functions for quality groups, indicating a reduction of ProtUE from 1988 to 2019. We introduced a dynamic and a static approach to assess ProtUE and stability as potential criteria in variety registration. We found a considerably lower heritability of the dynamic ProtUE (h2 = 43%) compared to the static ProtUE (h2 = 92%) and a lower dynamic stability (h2 = 32%) than for the static stability (h2 = 51%). None of these measures is in conflict with the selection for high V. In particular, V and static ProtUE are strongly genetically associated (r = 0.81), indicating an advantage of the static over the dynamic approach.
Modeling method of CNC tooling volumetric error under consideration of Abbé error
Authors: Chen Guohua , Zhang Lin , Wang Xiangjie , Wang Chao , Xiang Hua , Tong Guangqing , Zhao Dianzhang
Published: January 2022

The Abbé error is a key factor for high-precision CNC machine tools. Unluckily, it is not taken into account in traditional machine tool volumetric error models. In this respect, based on the traditional machine tool volumetric error models, a new machine tool volumetric error model containing Abbé error is performed by analyzing the mechanism of Abbé error formation tool volumetric and based on 21-item geometric error measurement data, Abbé arm, and angle functional relationship. Moreover, integrated qualitative and quantitative simulation method for evaluation of machine tool space precision are correspondingly presented. Finally, an example was utilized to further verify the value of our model by means of analysis and comparison of the tooling precision prior to and after performance of compensation, and its validity and feasibility were proved. This study provides an important modeling method for high-precision machine tools and has very important theoretical significance and practical value.
Does electroacupuncture benefit mixed urinary incontinence? A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Cui Yang , Li Quan , Wang Delong , Bao Rui , Li Limiao , Zhu Jiamin , Li Jianuo , Li Zhuxin , Yin Jiantao , Zhou Xinyu , Yin Hongna , Sun Zhongren
Published: January 2022

Introductin and hypothesis

Mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) comprises a combination of urgency and stress. The efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for the treatment of MUI remain unclear.

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of EA in treating MUI.

Methods

We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, Web of Science, four Chinese databases, clinical research registration platforms, grey literature, and the reference lists of the selected studies. Risk of bias and quality were evaluated using the Revman 5.4 and Jadad scores. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.1 software. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to assess the stability of the results.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials comprising 847 patients were included. The meta-analysis results showed that compared with antimuscarinic drugs plus pelvic floor muscle training, EA resulted in significantly less pad weight on the 1-h pad test and statistically significantly lower severity scores on the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form. The change in the 72-h incontinence episode frequency difference was not statistically significant, and there was no outcome of overall response rate and quality of life in this meta-analysis. Few adverse events occurred in the EA group. The TSA results suggested that the result of change from baseline in the 1-h pad test was stable and the evidence was conclusive.

Conclusions

EA could be a potential treatment option for MUI and is relatively safe. Nevertheless, because of the limitations of this study, our conclusions should be interpreted with caution, and further studies are needed to confirm the comprehensive clinical efficacy and placebo effect of EA.
Hydrodynamic Projections and the Emergence of Linearised Euler Equations in One-Dimensional Isolated Systems
Authors: Doyon Benjamin
Published: January 2022

One of the most profound questions of mathematical physics is that of establishing from first principles the hydrodynamic equations in large, isolated, strongly interacting many-body systems. This involves understanding relaxation at long times under reversible dynamics, determining the space of emergent collective degrees of freedom (the ballistic waves), showing that projection occurs onto them, and establishing their dynamics (the hydrodynamic equations). We make progress in these directions, focussing for simplicity on one-dimensional systems. Under a model-independent definition of the complete space of extensive conserved charges, we show that hydrodynamic projection occurs in Euler-scale two-point correlation functions. A fundamental ingredient is a property of relaxation: we establish ergodicity of correlation functions along almost every direction in space and time. We further show that to every extensive conserved charge with a local density is associated a local current and a continuity equation; and that Euler-scale two-point correlation functions of local conserved densities satisfy a hydrodynamic equation. The results are established rigorously within a general framework based on Hilbert spaces of observables. These spaces occur naturally in the $$C^*$$

C
∗

algebra description of statistical mechanics by the Gelfand–Naimark–Segal construction. Using Araki’s exponential clustering and the Lieb–Robinson bound, we show that the results hold, for instance, in every nonzero-temperature Gibbs state of short-range quantum spin chains. Many techniques we introduce are generalisable to higher dimensions. This provides a precise and universal theory for the emergence of ballistic waves at the Euler scale and how they propagate within homogeneous, stationary states.
Evolution of DNA Methylation Across Ecdysozoa
Authors: Engelhardt Jan , Scheer Oliver , Stadler Peter F. , Prohaska Sonja J.
Published: January 2022

DNA methylation is a crucial, abundant mechanism of gene regulation in vertebrates. It is less prevalent in many other metazoan organisms and completely absent in some key model species, such as Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans. We report here a comprehensive study of the presence and absence of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in 138 Ecdysozoa, covering Arthropoda, Nematoda, Priapulida, Onychophora, and Tardigrada. Three of these phyla have not been investigated for the presence of DNA methylation before. We observe that the loss of individual DNMTs independently occurred multiple times across ecdysozoan phyla. We computationally predict the presence of DNA methylation based on CpG rates in coding sequences using an implementation of Gaussian Mixture Modeling, . Integrating both analysis we predict two previously unknown losses of DNA methylation in Ecdysozoa, one within Chelicerata (Mesostigmata) and one in Tardigrada. In the early-branching Ecdysozoa Priapulus caudatus, we predict the presence of a full set of DNMTs and the presence of DNA methylation. We are therefore showing a very diverse and independent evolution of DNA methylation in different ecdysozoan phyla spanning a phylogenetic range of more than 700 million years.
Incidence and Contemporary Management of Delayed Bleeding Following Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Habib Joseph R. , Gao Shanshan , Young Ahn Joon , Ghabi Elie , Ejaz Aslam , Burns William , Burkhart Richard , Weiss Matthew , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Cameron John L. , Liddell Robert , Georgiades Christos , Hong Kelvin , He Jin , Lafaro Kelly J.
Published: January 2022

Background

Delayed bleeding after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a life‐threatening complication. However, the optimal management remains unclear. We summarize our experience of the management of delayed bleeding after PD and define the outcomes associated with different types of management.

Methods

All patients who underwent a PD between January 1987 and June 2020 at Johns Hopkins University were retrospectively reviewed. Delayed bleeding was defined as bleeding on or after postoperative day 5 following PD. Incidence, outcomes, and trends were reported.

Results

Among the 6201 patients that underwent PD, delayed bleeding occurred in 130 (2.1%) at a median of 12 days (IQR: 9, 24) postoperation. The pattern of bleeding was classified as intraluminal (51.5%), extraluminal (40.8%), and mixed (7.7%). A clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula and an intraabdominal abscess preceded the delayed bleeding in 43.1% and 31.5% of cases, respectively. Arterial pseudoaneurysm or bleeding from peripancreatic vessels was the most common reason (54.6%) with the gastroduodenal artery being the most common source (18.5%). Endoscopy, angiography, and reoperation were performed as a first‐line approach in 35.4%, 52.3%, and 6.2% of patients, respectively. The overall mortality was 16.2% and decreased over the study period (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Delayed bleeding following PD remains a life‐threatening complication. The most common location of delayed bleeding is from the gastroduodenal artery. Angiography with embolization should be the initial approach for urgent bleeding with surgical re‐exploration reserved for unstable patients or failed control of bleeding after interventional angiography or endoscopy.
Clinical predictors for a complicated course of disease in an inception cohort of patients with ulcerative colitis: results from the prospective, observational EPICOL study
Authors: Schmidt Carsten , Bokemeyer Bernd , Lügering Andreas , Bettenworth Dominik , Teich Niels , Fischer Imma , Hammer Leonie , Kolterer Stefanie , Rath Stefan , Stallmach Andreas ,   on behalf of the EPICOL Study Group
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The clinical course of ulcerative colitis (UC) is highly heterogeneous, with 20 to 30% of patients experiencing chronic disease activity requiring immunosuppressive or biologic therapies. The aim of this study was to identify predictors for a complicated disease course in an inception cohort of patients with UC.

Methods

EPICOL was a prospective, observational, inception cohort (UC diagnosis, ≤ 6 months) study in 311 patients with UC who were naive to immunosuppressants (IS)/biologics. A complicated course of disease was defined as the need for IS and/or biologic treatment (here therapy with a TNF-α antagonist) and/or UC-related hospitalisation. Patients were followed up for 24 months.

Results

Of the 307 out of 311 participants (4 patients did not meet the inclusion criteria “confirmed diagnosis of active UC within the last 6 months” (n = 2) and “immunosuppressive-naïve” (n = 2), analysis population), 209 (68.1%) versus 98 (31.9%) had an uncomplicated versus a complicated disease course, respectively. In a multivariate regression analysis, prior use of corticosteroids and prior anaemia were associated with a significantly increased risk for a complicated disease course (2.3- and 1.9-fold increase, respectively; p < 0.001 and p = 0.002). Based on these parameters, a risk model for patient stratification was developed.

Conclusion

Our study identifies anaemia and an early need for corticosteroids as predictors for a complicated course of disease in an inception cohort of patients with UC. By determining these parameters in routine clinical practice, our results may support the identification of patients who might benefit from early escalation of therapy.
Intermittent fasting and continuous energy restriction result in similar changes in body composition and muscle strength when combined with a 12 week resistance training program
Authors: Keenan Stephen J. , Cooke Matthew B. , Hassan Ebrahim Bani , Chen Won Sun , Sullivan Josef , Wu Sam X. , El-Ansary Doa , Imani Mahdi , Belski Regina
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The objective of this study was to compare the effects of 12 weeks of resistance training combined with either 5:2 intermittent fasting or continuous energy restriction on body composition, muscle size and quality, and upper and lower body strength.

Methods

Untrained individuals undertook 12 weeks of resistance training plus either continuous energy restriction [20% daily energy restriction (CERT)] or 5:2 intermittent fasting [~ 70% energy restriction 2 days/week, euenergetic consumption 5 days/week (IFT)], with both groups prescribed a mean of ≥ 1.4 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Participants completed 2 supervised resistance and 1 unsupervised aerobic/resistance training combination session per week. Changes in lean body mass (LBM), thigh muscle size and quality, strength and dietary intake were assessed.

Results

Thirty-four participants completed the study (CERT = 17, IFT = 17). LBM was significantly increased (+ 3.7%, p < 0.001) and body weight (− 4.6%, p < 0.001) and fat (− 24.1%, p < 0.001) were significantly reduced with no significant difference between groups, though results differed by sex. Both groups showed improvements in thigh muscle size and quality, and reduced intramuscular and subcutaneous fat assessed by ultrasonography and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), respectively. The CERT group demonstrated a significant increase in muscle surface area assessed by pQCT compared to the IFT group. Similar gains in upper and lower body strength and muscular endurance were observed between groups.

Conclusion

When combined with resistance training and moderate protein intake, continuous energy restriction and 5:2 intermittent fasting resulted in similar improvements in body composition, muscle quality, and strength. ACTRN: ACTRN12620000920998, September 2020, retrospectively registered.
The role of Glut-1 and H+/K+-ATPase expression in hyperplasia of mice laryngeal epithelium induced by pepsin
Authors: Ao Yin-Jie , Wu Ting-Ting , Cao Zai-Zai , Zhou Shui-Hong , Bao Yang-Yang , Shen Li-Fang
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To explore the role played by Glut-1 and H+/K+-ATPase in pepsin-induced, mouse laryngeal epithelial proliferation, growth, and development.

Methods

We established a mouse model of laryngopharyngeal reflux and measured Glut-1 and H+/K+-ATPase expression levels in mouse laryngeal epithelium treated with artificial gastric juice containing pepsin.

Results

Artificial pepsin-containing gastric juice induced significant hyperplastic changes in mouse laryngeal epithelium compared to control mice at 15, 30, and 45 days. Inhibition of Glut-1 expression by 2-DG significantly suppressed such hyperplasia compared to mice exposed to artificial gastric juice containing pepsin at 15, 30, and 45 days. After treatment with pepsin-containing artificial gastric juice, RT-PCR and Western blotting showed that the levels of Glut-1 and H+/K+-ATPase α, β increased significantly.

Conclusions

Pepsin-containing artificial gastric juice promoted mouse laryngeal epithelial hyperplasia associated with abnormal expression of Glut-1 and H+/K+-ATPase α, β.
Strain mode-dependent weighting functions in hyperelasticity accounting for verification, validation, and stability of material parameters
Authors: Mahnken Rolf
Published: January 2022

Optimized material parameters obtained from parameter identification for verification wrt a certain loading scenario are amenable to two deficiencies: Firstly, they may lack a general validity for different loading scenarios. Secondly, they may be prone to instability, such that a small perturbation of experimental data may ensue a large perturbation for the material parameters. This paper presents a framework for extension of hyperelastic models for rubber-like materials accounting for both deficiencies. To this end, an additive decomposition of the strain energy function is assumed into a sum of weighted strain mode related quantities. We propose a practical guide for model development accounting for the criteria of verification, validation and stability by means of the strain mode-dependent weighting functions and techniques of model reduction. The approach is successfully applied for 13 hyperelastic models with regard to the classical experimental data on vulcanized rubber published by Treloar (Trans Faraday Soc 40:59–70, 1944), showing both excellent fitting capabilties and stable material parameters.
The concept of Representative Crack Elements (RCE) for phase-field fracture: transient thermo-mechanics
Authors: Storm J. , Yin B. , Kaliske M.
Published: January 2022

The phase-field formulation for fracture based on the framework of representative crack elements is extended to transient thermo-mechanics. The finite element formulation is derived starting from the variational principle of total virtual power. The intention of this manuscript is to demonstrate the potential of the framework for multi-physical fracture models and complex processes inside the crack. The present model at hand allows to predict realistic deformation kinematics and heat fluxes at cracks. At the application of fully coupled, transient thermo-elasticity to a pre-cracked plate, the opened crack yields thermal isolation between both parts of the plate. Inhomogeneous thermal strains result in a curved crack surface, inhomogeneous recontact and finally heat flow through the crack regions in contact. The novel phase-field framework further allows to study processes inside the crack, which is demonstrated by heat radiation between opened crack surfaces. Finally, numerically calculated crack paths at a disc subjected to thermal shock load are compared to experimental results from literature and a curved crack in a three-dimensional application are presented.
Interim analysis of a multicenter registry study of COVID-19 patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Japan (J-COSMOS)
Authors: Nakase Hiroshi , Hayashi Yuki , Hirayama Daisuke , Matsumoto Takayuki , Matsuura Minoru , Iijima Hideki , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Ohmiya Naoki , Ishihara Shunji , Hirai Fumihito , Abukawa Daiki , Hisamatsu Tadakazu ,   J-COSMOS group, Sasaki Makoto , Iizuka Masahiro , Fujiya Mikihiro , Matsumoto Takayuki , Kinjo Fukunori , Nakamura Shiro , Kamata Noriko , Iijima Hideki , Etani Yuri , Ueno Fumiaki , Hiraoka Sakiko , Kondo Takeo , Kagaya Takashi , Naganuma Makoto , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Kobayashi Taku , Yamamoto Shuji , Naito Yuji , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Furuta Yoki , Mitsuyama Keichi , Hashimoto Yu , Arai Katsuhiro , Kato Shingo , Iwama Itaru , Esaki Motohiro , Tanaka Hiroki , Nakase Hiroshi , Motoya Satoshi , Maemoto Atsuo , Ashida Tomofumi , Nishimata Nobuaki , Andoh Akira , Yamamoto Hironori , Ishihara Shunji , Shimizu Toshiaki , Maeda Yasuharu , Kinoshita Kenji , Fukuda Katuyuki , Kato Jun , Takeuchi Ken , Nagahori Masakazu , Fukuzawa Masakatsu , Saruta Masayuki , Itabashi Michio , Shinozaki Masaru , Ishihara Soichiro , Yoshimura Naoki , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Kakuta Yoichi , Takahashi Kenichi , Sakemi Ryosuke , Nanjo Sohachi , Yoshikawa Shusaku , Ozeki Keiji , Fuchigami Ayako , Katsurada Takehiko , Watanabe Kenji , Sakuraba Hirotake , Hirai Fumihito , Hisabe Takashi , Ohmiya Naoki , Hokari Ryota , Nakai Katsuhiko , Abukawa Daiki , Yamamoto Shojiro , Koganei Kazutaka , Kunisaki Reiko , Hokama Akira
Published: January 2022

Background

The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) had a major impact on the health of people worldwide. The clinical background and clinical course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) among Japanese patients with COVID-19 remains unclear.

Methods

This study is an observational cohort of Japanese IBD patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Data on age, sex, IBD (classification, treatment, and activity), COVID-19 symptoms and severity, and treatment of COVID-19 were analyzed.

Results

From 72 participating facilities in Japan, 187 patients were registered from June 2020 to October 2021. The estimated incidence of COVID19 in Japanese IBD patients was 0.61%. The majority of IBD patients with COVID-19 (73%) were in clinical remission. According to the WHO classification regarding COVID-19 severity, 93% (172/184) of IBD patients had non-severe episodes, while 7% (12/184) were severe cases including serious conditions. 90.9% (165/187) of IBD patients with COVID-19 had no change in IBD disease activity. A logistic regression analysis stepwise method revealed that older age, higher body mass index (BMI), and steroid use were independent risk factors for COVID-19 severity. Six of nine patients who had COVID-19 after vaccination were receiving anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α antibodies.

Conclusion

Age, BMI and steroid use were associated with COVID-19 severity in Japanese IBD patients.
The Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion and interstate migration in border regions of US States
Authors: Seifert Friederike
Published: January 2022

In the wake of the Affordable Care Act, some US states expanded Medicaid eligibility to low-income, working-age adults while others did not. This study investigates whether this divergence induces migration across state borders to obtain Medicaid, especially in border regions of expansion states. It compares border with interior regions’ in-migration in the concerned subgroup before and after the Medicaid expansion in linear probability difference-in-difference and triple difference regression frameworks. Using individual-level data from the American Community Surveys over 2012–2017, this study finds only a statistically significant increase in in-migration to border regions after the expansion in Arkansas. The differing results across states could stem from statistical power issues of the employed regression analysis but might also result from state peculiarities. In Arkansas, the odds of having migrated increase by about 48% in its border regions after the Medicaid expansion compared to before and control regions. If all additional migrants take up Medicaid, the number of Medicaid beneficiaries in these regions increases by approximately 4%. Thus, even if the induced migration is statistically significant, it appears unlikely to impose meaningful fiscal externalities at the regional level.
Edge-enhanced dual discriminator generative adversarial network for fast MRI with parallel imaging using multi-view information
Authors: Huang Jiahao , Ding Weiping , Lv Jun , Yang Jingwen , Dong Hao , Del Ser Javier , Xia Jun , Ren Tiaojuan , Wong Stephen T. , Yang Guang
Published: January 2022

In clinical medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most important tools for diagnosis, triage, prognosis, and treatment planning. However, MRI suffers from an inherent slow data acquisition process because data is collected sequentially in k-space. In recent years, most MRI reconstruction methods proposed in the literature focus on holistic image reconstruction rather than enhancing the edge information. This work steps aside this general trend by elaborating on the enhancement of edge information. Specifically, we introduce a novel parallel imaging coupled dual discriminator generative adversarial network (PIDD-GAN) for fast multi-channel MRI reconstruction by incorporating multi-view information. The dual discriminator design aims to improve the edge information in MRI reconstruction. One discriminator is used for holistic image reconstruction, whereas the other one is responsible for enhancing edge information. An improved U-Net with local and global residual learning is proposed for the generator. Frequency channel attention blocks (FCA Blocks) are embedded in the generator for incorporating attention mechanisms. Content loss is introduced to train the generator for better reconstruction quality. We performed comprehensive experiments on Calgary-Campinas public brain MR dataset and compared our method with state-of-the-art MRI reconstruction methods. Ablation studies of residual learning were conducted on the MICCAI13 dataset to validate the proposed modules. Results show that our PIDD-GAN provides high-quality reconstructed MR images, with well-preserved edge information. The time of single-image reconstruction is below 5ms, which meets the demand of faster processing.
The role of environmental conditions in regulating long-term dynamics of an invasive seaweed
Authors: Ravaglioli C. , Benedetti-Cecchi Lisandro , Bertocci Iacopo , Maggi Elena , Uyà M. , Bulleri Fabio
Published: January 2022

The mechanisms underpinning long-term dynamics and viability of invader populations in the receiving environment remain largely unknown. We tested the hypothesis that temporal variations in the abundance of a well-established invasive seaweed, Caulerpa cylindracea, in the NW Mediterranean, could be regulated by inter-annual fluctuations in environmental conditions. Abundance data of C. cylindracea, sampled repeatedly between 2005 and 2020 at the peak of its growing season (late summer/early fall), were related to interannual variations in seasonal seawater temperature, wind speed and rainfall recorded during different growth phases of the alga, in both subtidal and intertidal habitats. In both habitats, higher peak of C. cylindracea cover was associated with lower seawater temperature in spring and summer, when the seaweed exits the winter resting phase and starts a period of active growth. In addition, the peak abundance of subtidal C. cylindracea was positively associated with higher autumn wind speed intensity and spring daily total precipitation. Our study reveals the importance of seasonal and interannual variation of abiotic factors in shaping temporal patterns of abundance of C. cylindracea, in both subtidal and intertidal habitats. Identifying the factors underpinning invasive population temporal dynamics and viability is essential to predict the time and conditions under which an invader can thrive, and thus guide management strategies aimed to containing invasions under current and future climates.
Attention to values helps shape convergence research
Authors: Helgeson Casey , Nicholas Robert E. , Keller Klaus , Forest Chris E. , Tuana Nancy
Published: January 2022

Convergence research is driven by specific and compelling problems and requires deep integration across disciplines. The potential of convergence research is widely recognized, but questions remain about how to design, facilitate, and assess such research. Here we analyze a seven-year, twelve-million-dollar convergence project on sustainable climate risk management to answer two questions. First, what is the impact of a project-level emphasis on the values that motivate and tie convergence research to the compelling problems? Second, how does participation in convergence projects shape the research of postdoctoral scholars who are still in the process of establishing themselves professionally? We use an interview-based approach to characterize what the project specifically enabled in each participant’s research. We find that (a) the project pushed participants’ research into better alignment with the motivating concept of convergence research and that this effect was stronger for postdoctoral scholars than for more senior faculty. (b) Postdocs’ self-assessed understanding of key project themes, however, appears unconnected to metrics of project participation, raising questions about training and integration. Regarding values, (c) the project enabled heightened attention to values in the research of a large minority of participants. (d) Participants strongly believe in the importance of explicitly reflecting on values that motivate and pervade scientific research, but they question their own understanding of how to put value-focused science into practice. This mismatch of perceived importance with poor understanding highlights an unmet need in the practice of convergence science.
Possibilities of monitoring intraocular pressure in children using EASYTON transpalpebral tonometer
Authors: Iomdina Elena N. , Kushnarevich Nina Yu.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To compare the effectiveness of transpalpebral scleral tonometry (TPST) and corneal pneumotonometry in children, and assess the discomfort level when measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) by these methods.

Methods

TPST using EASYTON tonometer (Russia) and pneumotonometry using Reichert 7 Non-contact AutoTonometer (USA) have been sequentially performed on 84 eyes (42 children aged 5–14, ave. 9.3 ± 2.7), including 64 myopic eyes (-0.5 to 6.75D), 18 hyperopic eyes (+ 0.75 to + 3.75D), and 2 emmetropic eyes. We assessed tolerance to the procedure on a five-point scale using a questionnaire which listed several criteria: discomfort, presence of pain, fear or anxiety during the procedure, the child's resistance to measurement.

Results

EASYTON tonometry demonstrated repeatability of IOP indicators when measuring the same eye three times sequentially and almost the same IOP level in paired eyes of isometropic children. Pneumotonometry reveals a greater individual data variability and a more pronounced asymmetry of the paired eyes’ indicators. IOP measured using the TPST was 18.3 ± 2.3 mmHg across the whole group, 18.2 ± 2.3 mmHg in myopic, and 18.5 ± 2.3 mmHg in hyperopic children. With pneumotonometry, the corresponding indicators were 17.1 ± 3.9 mmHg, 16.9 ± 3.8 mmHg, and 18.2 ± 4.0 mmHg. The average score for the TPST (4.64 ± 0.60 points) was significantly higher than that for pneumotonometry (3.85 ± 0.90 points) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

TPST provides broader possibilities for IOP control in pediatric practice, yielding more reliable and accurate results than pneumotonometry, eliminating the influence of corneal thickness and irregularity on the measurement result, and ensuring a calmer behavior and more comfort of children during the procedure.
Hygrothermal deterioration in carbon/epoxy and glass/epoxy composite laminates aged in marine-based environment (degradation mechanism, mechanical and physicochemical properties)
Authors: Ghabezi Pouyan , Harrison Noel M.
Published: January 2022

One of the major challenges in off-shore tidal and wave energy devices is the ageing of these structures in the hostile marine environment, which limits their operating life. In this research, mechanical properties of aged glass/epoxy and carbon/epoxy composite specimens including tensile strength, Young’s modulus, flexural strength, and shear strength, following immersion in a representative accelerated marine degradation environment (artificial seawater, with 3.5% salinity at room temperature and 60 °C) have been investigated. The microstructure and physicochemical characterization of the aged samples were assessed via microscopic imaging, micro-CT scanning and differential scanning calorimetry. The degradation phenomenon was apparent in the change of mechanical properties and microstructure of composite laminates (micro-cracks and debonding between matrix and fibre). Generally, the ageing process had a more severe effect on tensile and shear strengths of glass/epoxy samples than those of carbon/epoxy specimens. Reversely, the results of bending tests of carbon/epoxy composites showed more drop-in flexural properties than glass/epoxy samples. The results revealed that degradation mechanisms continue even after reaching the saturation point in composite materials. The achievements of this research present a good understanding of the effect of degradation of composite materials in salt water to deal with their application in real service environment.
When Thinking About Work Makes Employees Reach for Their Devices: A Longitudinal Autoregressive Diary Study
Authors: Heissler Clara , Kern Marcel , Ohly Sandra
Published: January 2022

Based on the stressor-detachment model, previous research has assumed that work-related ICT use in the evening impairs psychological detachment. However, since most of the studies to date have assessed cross-sectional relationships, little is known about the actual direction of effects. In this 5-day diary study, we implemented a day-level longitudinal model to shed light on the causal relationships between work-related ICT use, detachment, and task progress (N = 340 employees, N = 1289 day-level cases). We also investigated the role of unfinished work tasks because we assumed, based on boundary theory, that they are a driving force leading to impaired detachment and work-related ICT use in the evening. Contrary to current research consensus but in line with our expectations, we found that low psychological detachment increased work-related ICT use and task progress. We found no evidence for reversed lagged effects. These results applied both to planned and unplanned ICT use. Furthermore, our results support the notion that unfinished work tasks precede ICT use and detachment. Thus, our findings suggest that work-related ICT use should not be treated as a stressor in its own right in the stressor-detachment model. Instead, it needs to be investigated as a behavioral outcome that employees engage in when they cannot detach from work.
Drug delivery for neuronopathic lysosomal storage diseases: evolving roles of the blood brain barrier and cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Sato Yuji , Minami Kohtaro , Hirato Toru , Tanizawa Kazunori , Sonoda Hiroyuki , Schmidt Mathias
Published: January 2022

Whereas significant strides have been made in the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs), the neuronopathy associated with these diseases remains impervious mainly because of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which prevents delivery of large molecules to the brain. However, 100 years of research on the BBB since its conceptualization have clarified many of its functional and structural characteristics, spurring recent endeavors to deliver therapeutics across it to treat central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including neuronopathic LSDs. Along with the BBB, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) also functions to protect the microenvironment of the CNS, and it is therefore deeply involved in CNS disorders at large. Recent research aimed at developing therapeutics for neuronopathic LSDs has uncovered a number of critical roles played by the CSF that require further clarification. This review summarizes the most up-to-date understanding of the BBB and the CSF acquired during the development of therapeutics for neuronopathic LSDs, and highlights some of the associated challenges that require further research.
Aberrant expression of miRNAs in epilepsy
Authors: Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh , Hussen Bashdar Mahmud , Abak Atefe , Taheri Mohammad , Jalili Khoshnoud Reza
Published: January 2022

Epilepsy is manifested by intermittent convulsions and alterations in consciousness. This disorder has serious effects on daily functions and physical and mental health of affected patients. A variety of temporary irregularities in the function of brain can results in epilepsy. The molecular mechanism of epilepsy and the underlying causes of abnormal apoptotic responses in neurons, dysregulation of regenerative mechanisms in glial cells and abnormal immune reactions in the context of epilepsy are not clear. microRNAs (miRNAs) as important regulators of cell apoptosis as well as regenerative and immune responses have been shown to affect pathologic events in epilepsy. In the current review, we aimed at defining the role of miRNAs in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. We have listed dysregulated miRNAs in animal models of epilepsy and human subjects. miR-25-3p, miR-494, miR-139-5p, miR-101a-3p, miR-344a, miR-129, miR-298 and miR-187 are among down-regulated miRNAs in epilepsy. Moreover, expressions of miR-132, miR-146a, miR-181a and miR-155 have been reported to be increased in epilepsy. A number of genetic variants within miRNAs can affect risk of epilepsy. We discuss the role of miRNAs in the development of epilepsy.
Energy-based monitoring and correction to enhance the accuracy and stability of explicit co-simulation
Authors: Rodríguez Borja , Rodríguez Antonio J. , Sputh Bernhard , Pastorino Roland , Naya Miguel Ángel , González Francisco
Published: January 2022

The simulation of complex engineering applications often requires the consideration of component-level dynamics whose nature and time-scale differ across the elements of which the system is composed. Co-simulation offers an effective approach to deal with the modelling and numerical integration of such assemblies by assigning adequate description and solution methods to each component. Explicit co-simulation, in particular, is frequently used when efficient code execution is a requirement, for instance in real-time setups. Using explicit schemes, however, can lead to the introduction of energy artifacts at the discrete-time interface between subsystems. The resulting energy errors deteriorate the accuracy of the co-simulation results and may in some cases develop into the instability of the numerical integration process. This paper discusses the factors that influence the severity of the energy errors generated at the interface in explicit co-simulation applications, and presents a monitoring and correction methodology to detect and remove them. The method uses only the information carried by the variables exchanged between the subsystems and the co-simulation manager. The performance of this energy-correction technique was evaluated in multi-rate co-simulation of mechanical and multiphysics benchmark examples.