bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nielsen realization for infinite-type surfaces
Authors: Afton Santana , Calegari Danny , Chen Lvzhou , Lyman Rylee
Published: September 2020

Given a finite subgroup

G
G

of the mapping class group of a surface

S
S

, the Nielsen realization problem asks whether

G
G

can be realized as a finite group of homeomorphisms of

S
S

. In 1983, Kerckhoff showed that for

S
S

a finite-type surface, any finite subgroup

G
G

may be realized as a group of isometries of some hyperbolic metric on

S
S

. We extend Kerckhoff’s result to orientable, infinite-type surfaces. As applications, we classify torsion elements in the mapping class group of the plane minus a Cantor set, and also show that topological groups containing sequences of torsion elements limiting to the identity do not embed continuously into the mapping class group of

S
S

. Finally, we show that compact subgroups of the mapping class group of

S
S

are finite, and locally compact subgroups are discrete.
Population genomics reveal apomixis in a novel system: uniclonal female populations dominate the tropical forest herb family, Hanguanaceae (Commelinales)
Authors: Niissalo Matti A , Leong-Škorničková Jana , Šída Otakar , Khew Gillian S
Published: September 2020

The abundance of apomixis in tropical plant genera is poorly understood, and this affects the understanding of speciation and evolution. Hanguanaceae is a tropical monogeneric, dioecious plant family. All but two species are solitary herbs with no capability to spread vegetatively. Viable seeds are often produced when males have not been observed. Our aim was to investigate the presence of apomixis in Hanguana. We used reduced representation genomics to study phylogenetics and genetic variability in all populations of Hanguana in Singapore. We measured genome sizes and estimated ploidy levels in 10 species. Almost all taxa tested were genetically uniform (uniclonal) regardless of the extent of their distribution. The distribution of single clones over distinct localities supports our hypothesis of apomictic reproduction. Only one sexually reproducing native species was detected. Triploid and pentaploid states support our hypothesis that the type of apomixis in Hanguana is gametophytic. Population genomics tools offer a quick and cost-effective way of detecting excess clonality and thereby inferring apomixis. In the case of Hanguana, the presence of male plants is a strong indicator of sexual reproduction, whereas genome triplication is indicative of apomictic reproduction.
Testing Practices and Incidence of Chlamydial and Gonococcal Infection in the Veterans Health Administration, 2009–2019
Authors: Beste Lauren A , Maier Marissa M , Borgerding Joleen , Lowy Elliott , Hauser Ronald G , Van Epps Puja , Ohl Michael , Ross David , Chartier Maggie
Published: September 2020

Background

Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae cases reached a record high in the United States in 2018. Although active-duty military service members have high rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea infection, trends in chlamydia and gonorrhea in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system have not been previously described, including among patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and young women.

Methods

We identified all veterans in VHA care from 2009 through 2019. Tests and cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea were defined based on laboratory results in the electronic health record. Chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence rates were calculated each year by demographic group and HIV status.

Results

In 2019, testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea occurred in 2.3% of patients, 22.6% of women aged 18–24 years, and 34.1% of persons living with HIV. The 2019 incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhea was 100.8 and 56.3 cases per 100 000 VHA users, an increase of 267% and 294%, respectively, since 2009. Veterans aged ≤34 years accounted for 9.5% of the VHA population but 66.9% of chlamydia and 42.9% of gonorrhea cases. Chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence rates in persons living with HIV were 1432 and 1687 per 100 000, respectively.

Conclusions

The incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhea rose dramatically from 2009 to 2019. Among tested persons, those living with HIV had a 15.2-fold higher unadjusted incidence of chlamydia and 34.9-fold higher unadjusted incidence of gonorrhea compared with those not living with HIV. VHA-wide adherence to chlamydia and gonorrhea testing in high-risk groups merits improvement.
Accuracy of left atrial fibrosis detection with cardiac magnetic resonance: correlation of late gadolinium enhancement with endocardial voltage and conduction velocity
Authors: Caixal Gala , Alarcón Francisco , Althoff Till F , Nuñez-Garcia Marta , Benito Eva Maria , Borràs Roger , Perea Rosario Jesus , Prat-González Susana , Garre Paz , Soto-Iglesias David , Gunturitz Clara , Cozzari Jennifer , Linhart Markus , Tolosana Jose Maria , Arbelo Elena , Roca-Luque Ivo , Sitges Marta , Guasch Eduard , Mont Lluis
Published: September 2020

Aims

Myocardial fibrosis is a hallmark of atrial fibrillation (AF) and its characterization could be used to guide ablation procedures. Late gadolinium enhanced-magnetic resonance imaging (LGE-MRI) detects areas of atrial fibrosis. However, its accuracy remains controversial. We aimed to analyse the accuracy of LGE-MRI to identify left atrial (LA) arrhythmogenic substrate by analysing voltage and conduction velocity at the areas of LGE.

Methods and results

Late gadolinium enhanced-magnetic resonance imaging was performed before ablation in 16 patients. Atrial wall intensity was normalized to blood pool and classified as healthy, interstitial fibrosis, and dense scar tissue depending of the resulting image intensity ratio. Bipolar voltage and local conduction velocity were measured in LA with high-density electroanatomic maps recorded in sinus rhythm and subsequently projected into the LGE-MRI. A semi-automatic, point-by-point correlation was made between LGE-MRI and electroanatomical mapping. Mean bipolar voltage and local velocity progressively decreased from healthy to interstitial fibrosis to scar. There was a significant negative correlation between LGE with voltage (r = −0.39, P < 0.001) and conduction velocity (r = −0.25, P < 0.001). In patients showing dilated atria (LA diameter ≥45 mm) the conduction velocity predictive capacity of LGE-MRI was weaker (r = −0.40 ± 0.09 vs. –0.20 ± 0.13, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Areas with higher LGE show lower voltage and slower conduction in sinus rhythm. The enhancement intensity correlates with bipolar voltage and conduction velocity in a point-by-point analysis. The performance of LGE-MRI in assessing local velocity might be reduced in patients with dilated atria (LA diameter ≥45).
Changing paradigms: from prevention of thromboembolic events to improved survival in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Escobar Carlos , Camm A John
Published: September 2020

Atrial fibrillation is associated with a five-fold increase in the risk of stroke. Current guidelines recommend the use of the CHA2DS2-VASc score to stratify the risk of stroke. In addition, guidelines recommend the identification of the conditions that increase the risk of haemorrhage to be modified and thus decrease the risk of bleeding. Nevertheless, many patients with a high thromboembolic risk are prescribed antiplatelet treatment or do not receive any antithrombotic therapy. In addition, therapeutic inertia is common in anticoagulated patients taking vitamin K antagonists, and underdosing is an emerging problem with direct oral anticoagulants, probably because many physicians consider the risk of stroke and the risk of major bleeding to be equal. It is necessary to develop a new approach to risk stratification, an approach that moves from morbidity to mortality, i.e., from stratification of the risk of stroke and major bleeding to stratification of the risk of mortality associated with stroke and the risk of mortality associated with bleeding. In this article, we propose a novel risk stratification approach based on the mortality associated with stroke and bleeding, illustrated by data derived from the literature.
Redeposition experiments with natural sediments from the SE Black Sea in magnetic fields between about 2 and 114 µT
Authors: Nowaczyk Norbert R
Published: September 2020

Diluted slurry with an initial density of 1.30 g cm−3 prepared from natural glacial Black Sea sediments was deposited under controlled field conditions between 1.72 and 114.21 µT. Compaction was achieved by evaporation of a portion of the pore water from the open sample boxes over 4–7 d until a density of about 1.44–1.55 g cm−3 was reached. Magnetizations M acquired in a magnetic field B follow a slightly non-linear function with M ∼ B0.82. Similar relationships were also obtained for palaeointensity estimates for the artificial samples by using normalization by low-field susceptibility, anhysteretic remanent magnetization and saturation magnetization. All samples are characterized by a magnetic fabric typical for natural sediments as checked by determining the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility. The sediments’ anisotropy is in the range of 6–7 per cent and it is characterized by an oblate anisotropy ellipsoid with its small axis perpendicular to the deposition plane. According to scanning electron microscope imaging low-Ti magnetite particles present in the used sediments are in the range of 1–30 µm with the majority of particles 2–5 µm in size. Obtained results confirm the conclusion from other magnetostratigraphic studies that the Laschamps geomagnetic polarity excursion in the Black Sea area exhibited field values as low as 2.8 µT in its transitional phase between normal and reversed polarity.
Seismic velocity and anisotropy of the uppermost mantle beneath Madagascar from Pn tomography
Authors: Andriampenomanana Fenitra , Nyblade Andrew A , Wysession Michael E , Durrheim Raymond J , Tilmann Frederik , Barruol Guilhem , Rambolamanana Gérard , Rakotondraibe Tsiriandrimanana
Published: September 2020

The lithosphere of Madagascar records a long series of tectonic processes. Structures initially inherited from the Pan-African Orogeny are overprinted by a series of extensional tectonic and magmatic events that began with the breakup of Gondwana and continued through to the present. Here, we present a Pn-tomography study in which Pn traveltimes are inverted to investigate the lateral variation of the seismic velocity and anisotropy within the uppermost mantle beneath Madagascar. Results show that the Pn velocities within the uppermost mantle vary by ±0.30 km s–1 about a mean of 8.10 km s–1. Low-Pn-velocity zones (<8.00 km s–1) are observed beneath the Cenozoic alkaline volcanic provinces in the northern and central regions. They correspond to thermally perturbed zones, where temperatures are estimated to be elevated by ∼100–300 K. Moderately low Pn velocities are found near the southern volcanic province and along an E–W belt in central Madagascar. This belt is located at the edge of a broader low S-velocity anomaly in the mantle imaged in a recent surface wave tomographic study. High-Pn-velocity zones (>8.20 km s–1) coincide with stable and less seismically active regions. The pattern of Pn anisotropy is very complex, with small-scale variations in both the amplitude and the fast-axis direction, and generally reflects the complicated tectonic history of Madagascar. Pn anisotropy and shear wave (SKS) splitting measurements show good correlations in the southern parts of Madagascar, indicating coherency in the vertical distribution of lithospheric deformation along Pan-African shear zone as well as coupling between the crust and mantle when the shear zones were active. In most other regions, discrepancies between Pn anisotropy and SKS measurements suggest that the seismic anisotropy in the uppermost mantle beneath Madagascar differs from the vertically integrated upper mantle anisotropy, implying a present-day vertical partitioning of the deformation. Pn anisotropy directions lack the coherent pattern expected for an incipient plate boundary within Madagascar proposed in some kinematic models of the region.
Properly embedded minimal annuli in $\mathbb{S}^2 \times \mathbb{R}$
Authors: Hauswirth L , Kilian M , Schmidt M U
Published: September 2020

We prove that every properly embedded minimal annulus in $\mathbb{S}^2\times\mathbb{R}$ is foliated by circles. We show that such minimal annuli are given by periodic harmonic maps $\mathbb{C} \to \mathbb{S}^2$ of finite type. Such harmonic maps are parameterized by spectral data, and we show that continuous deformations of the spectral data preserve the embeddedness of the corresponding annuli. A curvature estimate of Meeks and Rosenberg is used to show that each connected component of spectral data of embedded minimal annuli contains a maximum of the flux of the third coordinate. A classification of these maxima allows us to identify the spectral data of properly embedded minimal annuli with the spectral data of minimal annuli foliated by circles.
Prudence in Shared Decision-Making: The Missing Link between the “Technically Correct” and the “Morally Good” in Medical Decision-Making
Authors: Kioko Paul Muleli , Requena Meana Pablo
Published: September 2020

Shared Decision-Making is a widely accepted model of the physician–patient relationship providing an ethical environment in which physician beneficence and patient autonomy are respected. It acknowledges the moral responsibility of physician and patient by promoting a deliberative collaboration in which their individual expertise—complementary in nature, equal in importance—is emphasized, and personal values and preferences respected. Its goal coincides with Pellegrino and Thomasma’s proximate end of medicine, that is, a technically correct and morally good healing decision for and with a particular patient. We argue that by perfecting the intellectual ability to apprehend the complexity of clinical situations, and through a perfection of the application of the first principles of practical reason, prudence is able to point toward the right and good shared medical decision. A prudent shared medical decision is therefore always in keeping with the kind of person the physician and the patient have chosen to be.
Long-term outcome of cutaneous melanoma patients treated with boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT)
Authors: Hiratsuka Junichi , Kamitani Nobuhiko , Tanaka Ryo , Tokiya Ryoji , Yoden Eisaku , Sakurai Yosinori , Suzuki Minoru
Published: September 2020

Our aim was to assess the long-term clinical outcome of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) using 10B-para-boronophenylalanine (BPA) as the boron delivery agent for cutaneous melanoma. Eight patients (eight lesions) were treated between October 2003 and April 2014. Their ages ranged from 48 to 86 years at the time of treatment. All of the targets were primary lesions and they were located on the sole or face. No patient had evidence of regional lymph node involvement, distant metastases or an active secondary cancer. The clinical stage was cT1-2N0M0 and performance scores were <2. BNCT was carried out at the Kyoto University Research Reactor (KUR). The patients were irradiated with an epithermal neutron beam between the curative tumor dose and the tolerable skin dose. Eight patients were evaluated and six showed a complete response (CR), while two patients had a partial response (PR). Of the two patients with a PR, one has remained a PR with brown spots persisting for 7.5 years following BNCT. The tumor in the other patient recurred after 6 years at the site of persisting brown macula. The overall control rate (CR + PR without recurrence) for the cohort was 88% (7/8). There have never been any adverse events >Grade 2 for the long follow-up period. Our results suggest that BNCT may be a promising treatment modality in the management of early stage cutaneous melanoma when wide local excision is not feasible.
Radiation protection in radiological imaging: a survey of imaging modalities used in Japanese institutions for verifying applicator placements in high-dose-rate brachytherapy
Authors: Okamoto Hiroyuki , Kito Satoshi , Tohyama Naoki , Yonai Shunsuke , Kawamorita Ryu , Nakamura Masaru , Fujimoto Takahiro , Tani Syoji , Yomoda Akihiro , Isobe Toru , Furukawa Hiroshi , Kotaka Kikuo , Itami Jun , Ikushima Hitoshi , Dokiya Takushi , Shioyama Yoshiyuki
Published: September 2020

Institutional imaging protocols for the verification of brachytherapy applicator placements were investigated in a survey study of domestic radiotherapy institutions. The survey form designed by a free on-line survey system was distributed via the mailing-list system of the Japanese Society for Radiation Oncology. Survey data of 75 institutions between August 2019 and October 2019 were collected. The imaging modalities used were dependent on resources available to the institutions. The displacement of a brachytherapy applicator results in significant dosimetric impact. It is essential to verify applicator placements using imaging modalities before treatment. Various imaging modalities used in institutions included a computed tomography (CT) scanner, an angiography X-ray system, a multi-purpose X-ray system and a radiotherapy simulator. The median total exposure time in overall treatment sessions was $\le$75 s for gynecological and prostate cancers. Some institutions used fluoroscopy to monitor the brachytherapy source movement. Institutional countermeasures for reducing unwanted imaging dose included minimizing the image area, changing the imaging orientation, reducing the imaging frequency and optimizing the imaging conditions. It is worth noting that half of the institutions did not confirm imaging dose regularly. This study reported on the usage of imaging modalities for brachytherapy in Japan. More caution should be applied with interstitial brachytherapy with many catheters that can lead to potentially substantial increments in imaging doses for monitoring the actual brachytherapy source using fluoroscopy. It is necessary to share imaging techniques, standardize imaging protocols and quality assurance/quality control among institutions, and imaging dose guidelines for optimization of imaging doses delivered in radiotherapy should be developed.
The role of mitochondrial oxidative stress and the tumor microenvironment in radiation-related cancer
Authors: Shimura Tsutomu
Published: September 2020

The health risks associated with low-dose radiation, which are a major concern after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident (the Fukushima accident), have been extensively investigated, and the cancer risks from low-dose radiation exposure (below ~ 100 mSv) are thought to be negligible. According to World Health Organization and the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation reports, the level of radiation exposure from the Fukushima accident is limited, estimating no significant increased risk from the accident. Radiation-induced cell injury is mainly caused by oxidative damage to biomolecules, including DNA, lipids and proteins. Radiation stimulates metabolic activation within the mitochondria to provide energy for the DNA damage response. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I and III are the most important intracellular source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during oxidative phosphorylation in eukaryotic cells. Manganese superoxide dismutase and glutathione are key players in redox control within cells. However, perturbation of the antioxidant response leads to chronic oxidative stress in irradiated cells. Excess ROS of mitochondrial origin is reported in cancer-associated fibroblast and promotes carcinogenesis. The aim of this review paper is to discuss critical roles of mitochondria in radiation-related cancer by introducing our recent studies. In particular, elevated mitochondrial ROS in stromal fibroblasts potentiate transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling, which triggers smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression to stimulate myofibroblast differentiation. Radiation-induced myofibroblasts promote tumor growth by enhancing angiogenesis. Thus, radiation affects both malignant cancer cells and neighboring stromal cells through secretion of soluble factors.
The effect of photoionizing feedback on the shaping of hierarchically-forming stellar clusters
Authors: González-Samaniego Alejandro , Vazquez-Semadeni Enrique
Published: September 2020

We use two hydrodynamical simulations (with and without photoionizing feedback) of the self-consistent evolution of molecular clouds (MCs) undergoing global hierarchical collapse (GHC), to study the effect of the feedback on the structural and kinematic properties of the gas and the stellar clusters formed in the clouds. During this early stage, the evolution of the two simulations is very similar (implying that the feedback from low-mass stars does not affect the cloud-scale evolution significantly) and the star-forming region accretes faster than it can convert gas into stars, causing the instantaneous measured star formation efficiency (SFE) to remain low even in the absence of significant feedback. Afterwards, the ionizing feedback first destroys the filamentary supply to star-forming hubs and ultimately removes the gas from it, thus first reducing the star formation (SF) and finally halting it. The ionizing feedback also affects the initial kinematics and spatial distribution of the forming stars because the gas being dispersed continues to form stars, which inherit its motion. In the non-feedback simulation, the groups remain highly compact and do not mix, while in the run with feedback, the gas dispersal causes each group to expand, and the cluster expansion thus consists of the combined expansion of the groups. Most secondary star-forming sites around the main hub are also present in the non-feedback run, implying a primordial rather than triggered nature. We do find one example of a peripheral star-forming site that appears only in the feedback run, thus having a triggered origin. However, this appears to be the exception rather than the rule, although this may be an artefact of our simplified radiative transfer scheme.
X-ray properties of dust-obscured galaxies with broad optical/UV emission lines
Authors: Zou (邹凡) Fan , Brandt William N , Vito Fabio , Chen (陳建廷) Chien-Ting , Garmire Gordon P , Stern Daniel , Ayubinia Ashraf
Published: September 2020

Dust-obscured galaxies (DOGs) with extreme infrared luminosities may represent a key phase in the co-evolution of galaxies and supermassive black holes. We select 12 DOGs at 0.3 ≲ z ≲ 1.0 with broad Mg ii or H β emission lines and investigate their X-ray properties utilizing snapshot observations (∼3 ks per source) with Chandra. By assuming that the broad lines are broadened due to virial motions of broad-line regions, we find that our sources generally have high Eddington ratios (λEdd). Our sources generally have moderate intrinsic X-ray luminosities (LX ≲ 1045 erg s−1), which are similar to those of other DOGs, but are more obscured. They also present moderate outflows and intense starbursts. Based on these findings, we conclude that high-λEdd DOGs are closer to the peaks of both host-galaxy and black hole growth compared to other DOGs, and that (active galactic nucleus) AGN feedback has not swept away their reservoirs of gas. However, we cannot fully rule out the possibility that the broad lines are broadened by outflows, at least for some sources. We investigate the relations among LX, AGN rest-frame 6 μm monochromatic luminosity, and AGN bolometric luminosity, and find the relations are consistent with the expected ones.
The composition of hot Jupiter atmospheres assembled within chemically evolved protoplanetary discs
Authors: Notsu Shota , Eistrup Christian , Walsh Catherine , Nomura Hideko
Published: September 2020

The radial-dependent positions of snowlines of abundant oxygen- and carbon-bearing molecules in protoplanetary discs will result in systematic radial variations in the carbon-to-oxygen (C/O) ratios in the gas and ice. This variation is proposed as a tracer of the formation location of gas-giant planets. However, disc chemistry can affect the C/O ratios in the gas and ice, thus potentially erasing the chemical fingerprint of snowlines in gas-giant atmospheres. We calculate the molecular composition of hot Jupiter atmospheres using elemental abundances extracted from a chemical kinetics model of a disc mid-plane, where we have varied the initial abundances and ionization rates. The models predict a wider diversity of possible atmospheres than those predicted using elemental ratios from snowlines only. As found in previous work, as the C/O ratio exceeds the solar value, the mixing ratio of CH4 increases in the lower atmosphere, and those of C2H2 and HCN increase mainly in the upper atmosphere. The mixing ratio of H2O correspondingly decreases. We find that hot Jupiters with C/O > 1 can only form between the CO2 and CH4 snowlines. Moreover, they can only form in a disc which has fully inherited interstellar abundances, and where negligible chemistry has occurred. Hence, carbon-rich planets are likely rare, unless efficient transport of hydrocarbon-rich ices via pebble drift to within the CH4 snowline is a common phenomenon. We predict combinations of C/O ratios and elemental abundances that can constrain gas-giant planet formation locations relative to snowline positions, and that can provide insight into the disc chemical history.
SN 2018gjx reveals that some SNe Ibn are SNe IIb exploding in dense circumstellar material
Authors: Prentice S J , Maguire K , Boian I , Groh J , Anderson J , Barbarino C , Bostroem K A , Burke J , Clark P , Dong Y , Fraser M , Galbany L , Gromadzki M , Gutiérrez C P , Howell D A , Hiramatsu D , Inserra C , James P A , Kankare E , Kuncarayakti H , Mazzali P A , McCully C , Müller-Bravo T E , Nichol M , Pellegrino C , Smartt S J , Sollerman J , Tartaglia L , Valenti S , Young D R
Published: September 2020

We present the data and analysis of SN 2018gjx, an unusual low-luminosity transient with three distinct spectroscopic phases. Phase I shows a hot blue spectrum with signatures of ionized circumstellar material (CSM), Phase II has the appearance of broad SN features, consistent with those seen in a Type IIb supernova at maximum light, and Phase III is that of a supernova interacting with helium-rich CSM, similar to a Type Ibn supernova. This event provides an apparently rare opportunity to view the inner workings of an interacting supernova. The observed properties can be explained by the explosion of a star in an aspherical CSM. The initial light is emitted from an extended CSM (∼4000 R⊙), which ionizes the exterior unshocked material. Some days after, the SN photosphere envelops this region, leading to the appearance of a SN IIb. Over time, the photosphere recedes in velocity space, revealing interaction between the supernova ejecta and the CSM that partially obscures the supernova nebular phase. Modelling of the initial spectrum reveals a surface composition consistent with compact H-deficient Wolf–Rayet and Luminous Blue Variable (LBV) stars. Such configurations may not be unusual, with SNe IIb being known to have signs of interaction so at least some SNe IIb and SNe Ibn may be the same phenomena viewed from different angles, or possibly with differing CSM configurations.
Early science with the LMT: molecular torus in UGC 5101
Authors: Cruz-González I , Gómez-Ruiz A I , Caldú-Primo A , Benítez E , Rodríguez-Espinosa J M , Krongold Y , Aretxaga I , Snell R , González-Martin O , Negrete C A , Narayanan G , Hughes D H , Yun M S , Fazio G G , Chavushyan V , Hiriart D , Jiménez-Bailón E , Herrera-Endoqui M , Martínez-Paredes M , González J J
Published: September 2020

As part of the Early Science Large Millimeter Telescope projects, we report the detection of nine double-peaked molecular lines, produced by a rotating molecular torus, in the ultraluminous infrared galaxies (ULIRG) – Compton-thick active galactic nuclei (AGN) galaxy UGC 5101. The double-peaked lines we report correspond to molecular transitions of HCN, HCO+, HNC, N2H+, CS, C18O, 13CO, and two CN lines; plus the detection of C2H that is a blend of six lines. The redshift search receiver spectra covers the 73–113 GHz frequency window. Low- and high-density gas tracers of the torus have different implied rotational velocities, with a rotational velocity of 149 ± 3  km s−1 for the low-density ones (C18O, 13CO) and 174 ± 3  km s−1 for high-density tracers (HCN, HCO+, HNC, N2H+, CS, and CN). In UGC 5101, we find that the ratio of integrated intensities of HCN to 13CO to be unusually large, probably indicating that the gas in the torus is very dense. Both the column densities and abundances are consistent with values found in AGN, starburst, and ULIRG galaxies. The observed abundance ratios cannot discriminate between X-ray and UV-field-dominated regions.
The evolution of large cavities and disc eccentricity in circumbinary discs
Authors: Ragusa Enrico , Alexander Richard , Calcino Josh , Hirsh Kieran , Price Daniel J
Published: September 2020

We study the mutual evolution of the orbital properties of high-mass ratio, circular, co-planar binaries and their surrounding discs, using 3D Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics simulations. We investigate the evolution of binary and disc eccentricity, cavity structure, and the formation of orbiting azimuthal overdense features in the disc. Even with circular initial conditions, all discs with mass ratios q > 0.05 develop eccentricity. We find that disc eccentricity grows abruptly after a relatively long time-scale (∼400–700 binary orbits), and is associated with a very small increase in the binary eccentricity. When disc eccentricity grows, the cavity semimajor axis reaches values $a_{\rm cav}\approx 3.5\, a_{\rm bin}$. We also find that the disc eccentricity correlates linearly with the cavity size. Viscosity and orbit crossing appear to be responsible for halting the disc eccentricity growth – eccentricity at the cavity edge in the range ecav ∼ 0.05–0.35. Our analysis shows that the current theoretical framework cannot fully explain the origin of these evolutionary features when the binary is almost circular (ebin ≲ 0.01); we speculate about alternative explanations. As previously observed, we find that the disc develops an azimuthal overdense feature in Keplerian motion at the edge of the cavity. A low-contrast overdensity still co-moves with the flow after 2000 binary orbits; such an overdensity can in principle cause significant dust trapping, with important consequences for protoplanetary disc observations.
Cell cycle regulated DNA methyltransferase: fluorescent tracking of a DNA strand-separation mechanism and identification of the responsible protein motif
Authors: Konttinen Olivia , Carmody Jason , Pathuri Sarath , Anderson Kyle , Zhou Xiaofeng , Reich Norbert
Published: September 2020

DNA adenine methylation by Caulobacter crescentus Cell Cycle Regulated Methyltransferase (CcrM) is an important epigenetic regulator of gene expression. The recent CcrM-DNA cocrystal structure shows the CcrM dimer disrupts four of the five base pairs of the (5′-GANTC-3′) recognition site. We developed a fluorescence-based assay by which Pyrrolo-dC tracks the strand separation event. Placement of Pyrrolo-dC within the DNA recognition site results in a fluorescence increase when CcrM binds. Non-cognate sequences display little to no fluorescence changes, showing that strand separation is a specificity determinant. Conserved residues in the C-terminal segment interact with the phospho-sugar backbone of the non-target strand. Replacement of these residues with alanine results in decreased methylation activity and changes in strand separation. The DNA recognition mechanism appears to occur with the Type II M.HinfI DNA methyltransferase and an ortholog of CcrM, BabI, but not with DNA methyltransferases that lack the conserved C-terminal segment. The C-terminal segment is found broadly in N4/N6-adenine DNA methyltransferases, some of which are human pathogens, across three Proteobacteria classes, three other phyla and in Thermoplasma acidophilum, an Archaea. This Pyrrolo-dC strand separation assay should be useful for the study of other enzymes which likely rely on a strand separation mechanism.
Tract-Specific Relationships Between Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers and Periventricular White Matter in Posthemorrhagic Hydrocephalus of Prematurity
Authors: Morales Diego M , Smyser Christopher D , Han Rowland H , Kenley Jeanette K , Shimony Joshua S , Smyser Tara A , Strahle Jennifer M , Inder Terrie E , Limbrick David D
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) is associated with neurological morbidity and complex neurosurgical care. Improved tools are needed to optimize treatments and to investigate the developmental sequelae of PHH.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of PHH.

METHODS

A total of 14 preterm (PT) infants with PHH and 46 controls were included. PT CSF was collected at temporizing surgery in PHH infants (PHH PT CSF) or lumbar puncture in controls. Term-equivalent age (TEA) CSF was acquired via implanted device or at permanent CSF diversion surgery in PHH (PHH-TEA-CSF) or lumbar puncture in controls. TEA dMRI scans were used to measure fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) in the genu of corpus callosum (gCC), posterior limb of internal capsule (PLIC), and optic radiations (OPRA). Associations between dMRI measures and CSF amyloid precursor protein (APP), neural cell adhesion-1 (NCAM-1), and L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) were assessed using Pearson correlations.

RESULTS

APP, NCAM-1, and L1CAM were elevated over controls in PHH-PT-CSF and PHH-TEA-CSF. dMRI FA and MD differed between control and PHH infants across all tracts. PHH-PT-CSF APP levels correlated with gCC and OPRA FA and PLIC MD, while L1CAM correlated with gCC and OPRA FA. In PHH-TEA-CSF, only L1CAM correlated with OPRA MD.

CONCLUSION

Tract-specific associations were observed between dMRI and CSF biomarkers at the initiation of PHH treatment. dMRI and CSF biomarker analyses provide innovative complementary methods for examining PHH-related white matter injury and associated developmental sequelae.
Exact solution of a cluster model with next-nearest-neighbor interaction
Authors: Yanagihara Yuji , Minami Kazuhiko
Published: September 2020

A 1D cluster model with next-nearest-neighbor interactions and two additional composite interactions is solved; the free energy is obtained and a correlation function is derived exactly. The model is diagonalized by a transformation obtained automatically from its interactions, which is an algebraic generalization of the Jordan–Wigner transformation. The gapless condition is expressed as a condition on the roots of a cubic equation, and the phase diagram is obtained exactly. We find that the distribution of roots for this algebraic equation determines the existence of long-range order, and we again obtain the ground-state phase diagram. We also derive the central charges of the corresponding conformal field theory. Finally, we note that our results are universally valid for an infinite number of solvable spin chains whose interactions obey the same algebraic relations.
Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value? Iceland and the Equal Pay Standard
Authors: Wagner Ines
Published: September 2020

Job evaluation systems have a history of being critiqued as upholding gender inequality. Paradoxically, however, the Icelandic Equal Pay Standard (IEPS), a novel and publicly praised gender equality policy, is based on a job evaluation tool. The aim of this article is to stipulate an initial analysis of how key stakeholders in the Icelandic context view and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the IEPS so far. Drawing on organizational literature and feminist institutionalism, the findings show how equal pay for work of equal value can be achieved. At the same time, the article highlights the need for more emphasis on and awareness of the value of feminized work within organizations, which remains underrecognized in the IEPS.
Interference mechanism analysis and mitigation measures with railway signalling equipment from harmonics in the traction system
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Liu Shanghe
Published: September 2020

With the development of high-speed railway and heavy-haul rail transport in China, a large number of new types of electric locomotives and electric multiple units have been put into operation, improving the efficiency and equipment quality of railway transportation. However, harmonics emitted from the traction system and locomotives often interfere with the railway signalling equipment, which can lead to critical malfunction of the equipment. Based on field test data, this paper analyses the interference coupling mechanism and magnitude of traction harmonics to the signalling equipment using a three-element method of interference. It examines the three essential elements of electromagnetic interference, studies harmonic mitigation measures and proposes to solve the problem of inteference with signalling equipment by installing a passive high-pass filter in the coupling path. After comparing the effects of several types of filters using simulation tests, this paper verified the validity of the method and concluded that a second-order passive filter is the optimal solution for harmonic interference mitigation.
Five Years’ Experience With a Medical Scribe Fellowship: Shaping Future Health Professions Students While Addressing Provider Burnout
Authors: Lin Steven , Duong Anthony , Nguyen Cathina , Teng Valerie
Published: September 2020

Professional burnout has reached epidemic levels among U.S. medical providers. One key driver is the burden of clinical documentation in the electronic health record, which has given rise to medical scribes. Despite the demonstrated benefits of scribes, many providers—especially those in academic health systems—have been unable to make an economic case for them. With the aim of creating a cost-effective scribe program in which premedical students gain skills that better position them for professional schooling, while providers at risk of burnout obtain documentation support, the authors launched the Clinical Observation and Medical Transcription (COMET) Program in June 2015 at Stanford University School of Medicine. COMET is a new type of postbaccalaureate premedical program that combines an apprenticeship-like scribing experience and a package of teaching, advising, application support, and mentored scholarship that is supported by student tuition. Driven by strong demand from both participants and faculty, the program grew rapidly during its first 5 years (2015–2020). Program evaluations indicated high levels of satisfaction among participants and faculty with their mentors and mentees, respectively; that participants felt the experience better positioned them for professional schooling; and that faculty reported improved joy of practice. In summary, tuition-supported medical scribe programs, like COMET, appear to be feasible and cost-effective. The COMET model may have the potential to help shape future health professions students, while simultaneously combating provider burnout. While scalability and generalizability remain uncertain, this model may be worth exploring at other institutions.
Coronavirus disease-19 vaccine development utilizing promising technology
Authors: Wang Yihan , Xing Man , Zhou Dongming
Published: September 2020

Purpose of review

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a highly transmittable and pathogenic pneumonia-causing disease, which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, resulting in millions of deaths globally. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 may coexist with human populations for a long time. Therefore, high-effective COVID-19 vaccines are an urgent need.

Recent findings

Vaccines help in the development of long-lasting humoral or cellular immunity, or both, by exposing individuals to antigens that induce an immunological response and memory prior to infections with live pathogens. New vaccine technologies, such as viral vectors and nucleic acid-based vaccines, which represent highly versatile technologies, may allow for faster vaccine manufacture and scale up production.

We summarized the recent progress made in relation to COVID-19 vaccine development using several promising technologies, with particular emphasis on advancements that are currently at the clinical trial stage.
Adverse Events Associated With Cryolipolysis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Hedayati Bobak , Juhász Margit , Chu Sherman , Mesinkovska Natasha Atanaskova
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Cryolipolysis is a popular procedure for people seeking noninvasive body contouring. As with any novel therapy, it is critical for providers to familiarize themselves with related adverse events (AEs), to provide appropriate information to patients before treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To describe reported complications and AEs associated with cryolipolysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review was completed using the PubMed database and following search terms: “cryolipolysis” or “lipocryolysis” or “CoolSculpting.” Only randomized clinical trials, prospective cohort studies, retrospective studies, case series, and case reports describing AEs related to cryolipolysis as well as studies written in English were included for review.

RESULTS

Fifty-three articles were included in this review. The most common AEs associated with cryolipolysis were treatment site erythema, numbness/paresthesia, bruising, and edema. More serious complications of cryolipolysis include severe/persistent pain, dysesthesia, skin hyperpigmentation, motor neuropathy, and paradoxical adipose hyperplasia.

CONCLUSION

Cryolipolysis is a safe option for patients seeking noninvasive body contouring. Most reported AEs are minimal and resolve quickly. It is important that physicians are aware of serious, irreversible AEs and are prepared to counsel patients appropriately before treatment.
Update on Nonfacial Fat Transplantation
Authors: Coleman Kyle , Coleman William P.
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Fat transplantation is becoming increasingly popular for off-face rejuvenation.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an update in the literature of current knowledge and emerging concepts in the use of fat transplantation for nonfacial applications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This update includes the potential benefits and risks of using fat transfer techniques on the body.

RESULTS

The current literature and author experiences are provided to help understand this growing field of aesthetic procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of nonfacial fat transplantation is increasing and will become a larger part of aesthetic practices.
Redefining Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Tacrolimus in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation: A Target Trough Concentration of 4–7 ng/mL During the First Month After Liver Transplantation is Safe and Improves Graft and Renal Function
Authors: Lemaitre Florian , Tron Camille , Renard Thomas , Jézéquel Caroline , Houssel-Debry Pauline , Bergeat Damien , Pastoret Cédric , Collet Nicolas , Petitcollin Antoine , Verdier Marie-Clémence , Bardou-Jacquet Edouard , Camus Christophe , Boudjema Karim , Bellissant Eric , Rayar Michel ,   on behalf of the i-Trans Rennes Study Group
Published: September 2020

Background:

Currently, the recommended tacrolimus (TAC) trough level (Cmin) after liver transplantation (LT) is 6–10 ng/mL (when associated in triple immunosuppressive therapy). However, few studies have achieved the lower limit of this range, especially below 7 ng/mL. This study evaluated the efficacy of a target TAC Cmin of 4–7 ng/mL after LT.

Methods:

Of 1677 LTs performed between 2002 and 2017, 904 LT cases were analyzed. The cases were categorized into the following 3 groups and compared: low- (n = 247, 27.3%), intermediate- (n = 344, 37.9%), and high-exposure groups (n = 313, 34.5%) with TAC Cmin of 4–7 ng/mL, 7–10 ng/mL, and >10 ng/mL, respectively. In addition, propensity score matching was performed to reduce heterogeneity and population bias.

Results:

At months 1 and 3, when compared with the 2 other groups, the low-exposure group had similar grafts (P = 0.75) and patient (P = 0.77) survival, but lower alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.001), bilirubin (P < 0.001), international normalized ratio (P = 0.046), and creatinine (P < 0.001) levels. After propensity score matching, the bilirubin (P < 0.001) and creatinine (P = 0.001) levels in the low-exposure group still improved at months 3, but the graft (P = 0.86) and patient (P = 0.99) survival were still similar.

Conclusions:

A TAC Cmin of 4–7 ng/mL seems safe and capable of improving graft and kidney function. This finding should be confirmed in a prospective randomized trial.
Balloon compression vs radiofrequency for primary trigeminal neuralgia: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Sterman-Neto Hugo , Fukuda Cristiane Yoko , Duarte Kleber Paiva , Aparecida da Silva Valquíria , Rodrigues Antonia Lilian de Lima , Galhardoni Ricardo , de Siqueira Silvia R.D.T. , de Siqueira José Tadeu Tesseroli , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Ciampi de Andrade Daniel
Published: September 2020

Surgical procedures are necessary in up to 50% of trigeminal neuralgia patients. Although radiofrequency (RF) is more widely used, it is associated with high intraprocedural costs and long technical learning time. Other simpler procedures such as balloon compression (BC) require a lower training period and have significant lower costs. We evaluated the effects of BC and RF in pain control in primary trigeminal neuralgia in a randomized, double-blinded, head-to-head trial. Individuals were randomly allocated in 1 of 2 groups: BC and RF. Throughout pain, psychological and quality of life measurements were performed at baseline and after surgery. The main outcome was the worst pain in the last 24 hours (0-10) at 6 months postoperatively. After the inclusion of half of the estimated sample, a preplanned interim analysis was performed when 33 patients (62.1 ± 9.4 y.) completed the study. Pain intensity (confidence interval [CI] 95% 0.6 to 3.8, and −0.6 to 2.2, for BC and RF) did not significantly differ. Complications, interference of pain in daily life (CI 95% −0.1 to 2.3 and −0.4 to 2.3, for BC and RF), neuropathic pain symptoms (CI 95% 1.7 to 3.6 and 3.0 to 5.7, for BC and RF), mood (CI 95% 4.8 to 11.5 and 5.5 to 15.1, BC and RF, respectively), medication use, and quality of life (CI 95% 80.4 to 93.1 and 83.9 to 94.2, for BC and RF) were also not different. Radiofrequency presented more paresthetic symptoms than BC at 30 days after intervention. Based on these results, the study was halted due to futility because BC was not superior to RF.