bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVEREST study report 4: Fluorescein angiography features predictive of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy
Authors: Tan Colin S. , Ngo Wei K. , Lim Louis W. , Tan Nikolle W. , Lim Tock H.
Published: January 2019

Importance

It is important to identify features of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) that differentiate it from typical neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD) on various imaging modalities, including fluorescein angiography (FA).

Background

PCV was thought to be indistinguishable from nAMD using FA alone. In real‐world practice, indocyanine‐green angiography may often be unavailable or contraindicated.

Design

Analysis of FA images from a prospective, multicentre study.

Participants

Study images of both PCV and nAMD patients from the EVEREST study.

Methods

FA features at baseline were independently graded by masked graders (fellowship‐trained ophthalmologists) using standardized diagnostic algorithms.

Main Outcome Measures

Predictive indicators (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values) for PCV.

Results

Of the 95 patients screened, 61 had PCV. Of the 34 screening failures, 15 were diagnosed as nAMD. Hyperfluorescent nodules on FA were observed in 80% of patients with PCV vs 20% with nAMD (P < 0.001). Blocked fluorescence on FA, which corresponded to the presence of subretinal haemorrhage, occurred more frequently among patients with PCV vs nAMD (61.7% vs 13.3%, P = 0.001). Similarly, the leakage characteristic of occult choroidal neovascularization occurred more frequently among patients with PCV vs nAMD (95.0% vs 73.3%, P = 0.026). The positive predictive value for PCV was 94.1% for hyperfluorescent nodules, 94.9% for blocked fluorescence, 83.8% for occult choroidal neovascularization and 82.0% for pigment epithelial detachment.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study demonstrated that certain FA features can be predictive of PCV and may be considered as an indication for retina specialists to perform indocyanine green angiography as confirmatory test.
Clinical and molecular diagnosis of non‐phosphomannomutase 2 N‐linked congenital disorders of glycosylation in Spain
Authors: Medrano Celia , Vega Ana , Navarrete Rosa , Ecay M. Jesús , Calvo Rocío , Pascual Samuel Ignacio , Ruiz‐Pons Mónica , Toledo Laura , García‐Jiménez Inmaculada , Arroyo Ignacio , Campo Andrea , Couce M. Luz , Domingo‐Jiménez M. Rosario , García‐Silva M. Teresa , González‐Gutiérrez‐Solana Luis , Hierro Loreto , Martín‐Hernández Elena , Martínez‐Pardo Mercedes , Roldán Susana , Tomás Miguel , Cabrera Jose C. , Mártinez‐Bugallo Francisco , Martín‐Viota Lucía , Vitoria‐Miñana Isidro , Lefeber Dirk J. , Girós M. Luisa , Serrano Gimare Mercedes , Ugarte Magdalena , Pérez Belén , Pérez‐Cerdá Celia
Published: January 2019

The congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are defects in glycoprotein and glycolipid glycan synthesis and attachment. They affect multiple organ/systems, but non‐specific symptoms render the diagnosis of the different CDG very challenging. Phosphomannomutase 2 (PMM2)‐CDG is the most common CDG, but advances in genetic analysis have shown others to occur more commonly than previously thought. The present work reports the clinical and mutational spectrum of 25 non‐PMM2 CDG patients. The most common clinical symptoms were hypotonia (80%), motor or psychomotor disability (80%) and craniofacial dysmorphism (76%). Based on their serum transferrin isoform profile, 18 were classified as CDG‐I and 7 as CDG‐II. Pathogenic variations were found in 16 genes (ALG1, ALG6, ATP6V0A2, B4GALT1, CCDC115, COG7, DOLK, DPAGT1, DPM1, GFPT1, MPI, PGM1, RFT1, SLC35A2, SRD5A3, and SSR4). Overall, 27 variants were identified, 12 of which are novel. The results highlight the importance of combining genetic and biochemical analyses for the early diagnosis of this heterogeneous group of disorders.
Newly identified set of obesity‐related genotypes and abdominal fat influence the risk of insulin resistance in a Korean population
Authors: Kim Minjoo , Jeong Sarang , Yoo Hye Jin , An Hyoeun , Jee Sun Ha , Lee Jong Ho
Published: January 2019

We aimed to identify obesity‐related single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci in a Korean population and construct an obesity genetic risk score (GRS) to examine the association of the genetic predisposition to obesity with insulin resistance (IR). In total, 9675 subjects were included, and 7666 of these subjects were used for replication. A GRS was constructed using the SNP loci that overlapped in both cohort sets. The subjects showed a trend toward an increase in body mass index, waist circumference, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)‐IR, HOMA‐B, and levels of insulin, triglyceride, and alanine aminotransferase across the tertiles of obesity GRS, while the adiponectin level showed a trend toward a decrease with increasing GRS. The associations between the obesity GRS and the measures of fasting insulin, HOMA‐IR, and adiponectin were significant after adjusting for confounding factors. Moreover, a significant association between obesity GRS and HOMA‐IR was observed in subjects with abdominal obesity. The present results indicate that a predisposition to obesity may affect IR in the Korean population and that abdominal fat may alter or modify the genetic effects. Furthermore, the set of obesity‐related genotypes and abdominal fat may play interactive roles in determining the risk of IR.
Intensification patterns and the probability of HbA1c goal attainment in Type 2 diabetes mellitus: real‐world evidence for the concept of ‘intensification inertia’
Authors: Pantalone K. M. , Misra‐Hebert A. D. , Hobbs T. M. , Ji X. , Kong S. X. , Milinovich A. , Weng W. , Bauman J. M. , Ganguly R. , Burguera B. , Kattan M. W. , Zimmerman R. S.
Published: January 2019

Aims

To assess the effects of ‘clinical’ and ‘intensification inertia’ by evaluating the impact of different intensification interventions on the probability of HbA1c goal attainment using real‐world data.

Methods

Electronic health records (Cleveland Clinic, 2005–2016) were used to identify 7389 people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and HbA1c ≥53 mmol/mol (≥7.0%), despite a stable regimen of two oral antihyperglycaemic drugs for ≥6 months. The participants were stratified by index HbA1c and analysed over a 6‐month period for pharmacological intensification, and then for 12 additional months for HbA1c goal attainment (<53 mmol/mol).

Results

The probability of HbA1c goal attainment (Kaplan–Meier analysis) in the group with index HbA1c 53–63 mmol/mol (7.0–7.9%) was highest with the addition of oral antidiabetic drugs [57.3% (95% CI 52.1, 62.0)] or glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists [56.7% (95% CI 40.4, 68.6)], in the 64–74 mmol/mol (8.0–8.9%) group with the addition of oral antidiabetic drugs [31.9% (95% CI 25.1, 38.1)] or insulin [30.6% (95% CI 18.3, 41.0)], and in the ≥75 mmol/mol (≥9.0%) group with the addition of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists [53.0% (95% CI 31.8, 67.6)] or insulin [43.5% (95% CI 36.4, 49.8)].

Conclusions

Numerical, but not statistically significant, differences in HbA1c goal attainment probability by type of intensification were most marked in people with the highest index HbA1c [≥75 mmol/mol (≥9.0%)]; in this group, injectable therapy showed trends toward greater glycaemic control benefits. Additional research into the phenomenon of intensification inertia is warranted.
Use of echocardiography to monitor myocardial damage during anthracycline chemotherapy
Authors: Anqi Yang , Yu Zhang , Mingjun Xu , Xiaoli Kong , Mengmeng Li , Fangfang Liu , Mei Zhang
Published: January 2019

Background

Anthracycline‐related cardiotoxicity has a poor prognosis; therefore, early detection of any change in LV function is critical.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the two‐dimensional speckle tracking technique for the early detection of cardiac toxicity after low‐dose anthracycline chemotherapy in the Chinese population.

Methods

Forty breast cancer patients were treated by chemotherapy using anthracycline for 4–6 cycles. Patients were examined by echocardiography before chemotherapy (T0) and after the second (T2), fourth (T4), and sixth (T6) cycle. LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and endocardium, mid‐myocardium, and epicardium global longitudinal strain (GLS‐Endo, GLS‐Mid, and GLS‐Epi). Additionally, global circumferential strain (GCS), RV global longitudinal strain (RVGLS), and LA global longitudinal strain (LAGLS) were evaluated.

Results

Left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly reduced at T4 (P < 0.05). Compared with T0, GLS, GLS‐Endo, GLS‐Mid, and GLS‐Epi were significantly reduced at T2, T4, and T6 (P < 0.05 for all), the apical septum wall (AS) was also reduced significantly at T2 (P < 0.05), and the apical anterior wall (AA) and the basal anterior wall (BA) longitudinal strains were significantly reduced at T4 (P < 0.05). GCS, RVGLS, and LAGLS were not significantly changed after treatment (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

LV stratified strains and strain of the segments supplied by the left anterior descending coronary artery are more sensitive to the cardiac toxicity of anthracycline.
Contrasting responses after fires of the source components of soil respiration and ecosystem respiration
Authors: Chen Ji , Zhang Yuefang , Luo Yiqi , Zhou Xuhui , Jiang Yu , Zhao Jin , Chen Yizhao , Wang Chao , Guo Liang , Cao Junji
Published: January 2019

Wildfire is an important ecological disturbance that can have cascading effects on ecosystem carbon (C) fluxes. Ecosystem respiration (ER) and soil respiration (SR) account for two of the largest terrestrial C fluxes to the atmosphere, and they play critical roles in regulating C–climate feedbacks. Here, the responses of ER, SR and their source components to experimental burning in a meadow grassland on the Tibetan Plateau were investigated. Fire treatment increased ER by 9% but decreased SR by 15%. The contrasting post‐fire responses of SR and ER can be explained by the behaviour of their source components; that is, fire increased aboveground plant respiration (Ragb) by 37%, but decreased heterotrophic respiration (HR) by 21%. Increases in ER and Ragb were mainly related to enhanced plant productivity, whereas smaller SR and HR were associated with reductions in microbial biomass and soil moisture. Accounting for the responses of ER, SR and their intrinsic components has advanced our understanding of how fire affects ecosystem C fluxes.

Highlights

Fire treatment increased ecosystem respiration (ER) and aboveground plant respiration.

Fire treatment decreased soil respiration (SR) and heterotrophic respiration (HR).

Increases in ER and aboveground plant respiration were related to plant productivity.

Reductions in SR and HR were caused by the suppressed microbial activity.
Safety and effectiveness of stereotactic laser ablation for epileptogenic cerebral cavernous malformations
Authors: Willie Jon T. , Malcolm James G. , Stern Matthew A. , Lowder Lindsay O. , Neill Stewart G. , Cabaniss Brian T. , Drane Daniel L. , Gross Robert E.
Published: January 2019

Objective

Magnetic resonance (MR) thermography–guided laser interstitial thermal therapy, or stereotactic laser ablation (SLA), is a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery for focal epilepsy caused by cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). We examined the safety and effectiveness of SLA of epileptogenic CCMs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 19 consecutive patients who presented with focal seizures associated with a CCM. Each patient underwent SLA of the CCM and adjacent cortex followed by standard clinical and imaging follow‐up.

Results

All but one patient had chronic medically refractory epilepsy (median duration 8 years, range 0.5‐52 years). Lesions were located in the temporal (13), frontal (five), and parietal (one) lobes. CCMs induced magnetic susceptibility artifacts during thermometry, but perilesional cortex was easily visualized. Fourteen of 17 patients (82%) with >12 months of follow‐up achieved Engel class I outcomes, of which 10 (59%) were Engel class IA. Two patients who were not seizure‐free from SLA alone became so following intracranial electrode‐guided open resection. Delayed postsurgical imaging validated CCM involution (median 83% volume reduction) and ablation of surrounding cortex. Histopathologic examination of one previously ablated CCM following open surgery confirmed obliteration. SLA caused no detectable hemorrhages. Two symptomatic neurologic deficits (visual and motor) were predictable, and neither was permanently disabling.

Significance

In a consecutive retrospective series, MR thermography–guided SLA was an effective alternative to open surgery for epileptogenic CCM. The approach was free of hemorrhagic complications, and clinically significant neurologic deficits were predictable. SLA presents no barrier to subsequent open surgery when needed.
Women's desire for the kaleidoscope of authenticity, balance and challenge: A multi‐method study of female health workers’ careers
Authors: O’Neill Marjorie Spooner , Jepsen Denise
Published: January 2019

Improved health care and increased life expectancy have extended working lives and changed the nature of work for many women. The aim of this research is to explore women's kaleidoscope career intentions of authenticity, balance and challenge, and understand the impact of life roles on their career choices. The research comprises two studies. In Study 1, interviews with 14 female hospital pharmacists demonstrate how their desire to increase non‐work life roles while caring for ageing parents has influence over their career choices. In Study 2, a survey of 178 female direct care workers confirms life roles’ impact on their kaleidoscope career intentions. Findings demonstrate that different life roles strongly influence women's career choices in a number of ways, primarily their desire to increase their leisure and engagement with activities outside work. In later life, carer responsibilities play an influential role in female career choices, particularly those related to eldercare. Finally, kaleidoscope career intentions may be influenced by life roles. These findings have considerable implications for both the expansion of careers and gender theory, and development of public and business policies aimed at attracting and retaining human resources.
Thermal properties and stability of Catalan Modernist blue and green enamels
Authors: Beltrán Martí , Brock Fiona , Pradell Trinitat
Published: January 2019

Stained glass is a fragile component of our Cultural Heritage. In particular, the stained glass produced during the last decades of the 19th century and first decades of the 20th century is characterised by the use of a new type ready‐to‐use enamels. Stained glass was used for the windows of buildings, and a large part of it is exposed to weathering and consequently to deterioration. This study analyses the collection of materials used in one of the most important stained glass Modernist workshops in Barcelona. The chemical composition is determined (and pigments identified) by means of Laser Ablation Inductively‐Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry and X‐Ray Diffraction and the thermal properties of the enamels measured by Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Hot Stage Microscopy. The enamels are made of a lead‐zinc borosilicate glass characterised by its low sintering temperatures and high stability against chemical corrosion, in particular to water corrosion. However, the relatively narrow range of firing temperatures necessary for correct adherence of the enamels to the contemporary glass base may have required the addition of a high lead borosilicate flux, which would have increased the lead content of the enamel, decreasing the firing temperature but also its stability.
AMPKα2 knockout enhances tumour inflammation through exacerbated liver injury and energy deprivation‐associated AMPKα1 activation
Authors: Qiu Shulan , Liu Taoyan , Piao Chunmei , Wang Ying , Wang Kefang , Zhou Yandong , Cai Lun , Zheng Shuai , Lan Feng , Du Jie
Published: January 2019

Tissue damage and its associated‐inflammation act as tumour initiators or propagators. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is activated by environmental or nutritional stress factors, such as hypoxia, glucose deprivation, and other cell injury factors, to regulate cell energy balance and differentiation. We previously have reported that AMPKα2 deficiency resulted in the energy deprivation in tumour‐bearing liver and the enhanced‐hepatocyte death. In this study, AMPKα2 knockout mice and the liver metastasis model of colon cancer cells were used to address the role of AMPKα isoforms in tumour inflammation. First, we found that the AMPKα2 deficiency exacerbated the liver injury and recruitment of macrophages. Meanwhile, although compensatory expression of AMPKα1 was not significant after AMPKα2 knockout, AMPKα1 phosphorylation was elevated in remnant liver in AMPKα2 knockout mice, which was positively associated with the enhanced energy deprivation in the AMPKα2 deficient mice. Furthermore, the activated AMPKα1 in macrophage contributed to its polarizing to tumour‐associated phenotype. Thus, the enhanced tumour‐associated inflammation and activation of AMPKα1 in the AMPKα2 deficient mice may exacerbate the tumour development by affecting the tumour inflammatory microenvironment. Our study suggests that the two isoforms of AMPKα, AMPKα1 and AMPKα2 play different roles in controlling tumour development.
Depression Increases the Risk of Death Independently From Vascular Events in Elderly Individuals: The Three‐City Study
Authors: Péquignot Renaud , Dufouil Carole , Pérès Karine , Artero Sylvaine , Tzourio Christophe , Empana Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

How much the association between depressive symptoms (DSs) and all‐cause mortality depends on cardiovascular disease (CVD) events is poorly known. We aimed to prospectively quantify the association between DSs at repeated study visits and all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality, and the influence of incident CVD on this association.

METHODS

The Three‐City Study has included adults 65 years and older, who were examined at baseline between 1999 and 2001 and after 2, 4, 7, and 10 years of follow‐up. At each visit, a score of 16 or greater on the 20‐item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale defined the presence of DSs. DS status and incident coronary heart disease or stroke events were used as time‐dependent variables in a Cox proportional hazard model of mortality.

RESULTS

We studied 7377 participants (63.7% females) aged 73.8 years (SD = 5.4 years) without a history of CVD at baseline examination. DSs were present in 19% to 22% of subjects at each study visit. During a median follow‐up of 9.4 years, 650 subjects developed a first CVD, and 1255 had died. After adjustment for baseline sociodemographic variables, vascular risk factors, impairment in daily life activities, and antidepressants, time‐dependent DSs were associated with a 28% increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06‐1.55), and incident CVD event was associated with a 63% increased risk (HR = 1.63; 95% CI = 1.30‐2.04). However, the association between DSs and mortality was not influenced by the occurrence of CVD (HR for DS and CVD interaction = 1.03; 95% CI = 0.66‐1.61). A mediation analysis confirmed that incident CVD only explained 6.9% of the excess of mortality associated with DSs.

CONCLUSION

In older participants, the increased risk of all‐cause mortality associated with the presence of DSs at baseline and during follow‐up is not modified by and is moderately mediated by incident CVD. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:546–552, 2019.
Critical function of DNA methyltransferase 1 in tomato development and regulation of the DNA methylome and transcriptome
Authors: Yang Yu , Tang Kai , Datsenka Tatsiana U , Liu Wenshan , Lv Suhui , Lang Zhaobo , Wang Xingang , Gao Jinghui , Wang Wei , Nie Wenfeng , Chu Zhaoqing , Zhang Heng , Handa Avtar K , Zhu Jian‐Kang , Zhang Huiming
Published: January 2019

DNA methylation confers epigenetic regulation on gene expression and thereby on various biological processes. Tomato has emerged as an excellent system to study the function of DNA methylation in plant development. To date, regulation and function of DNA methylation maintenance remains unclear in tomato plants. Here, we report the critical function of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Methyltransferase 1 (SlMET1) in plant development and DNA methylome and transcriptome regulation. Using CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing, we generated slmet1 mutants and observed severe developmental defects with a frame‐shift mutation, including small and curly leaves, defective inflorescence, and parthenocarpy. In leaf tissues, mutations in SlMET1 caused CG hypomethylation and CHH hypermethylation on a whole‐genome scale, leading to a disturbed transcriptome including ectopic expression of many RIN target genes such as ACC2 in leaf tissues, which are normally expressed in fruits. Neither the CG hypomethylation nor CHH hypermethylation in the slmet1 mutants is related to tissue culture. Meanwhile, tissue culture induces non‐CG hypomethylation, which occurs more frequently at gene regions than at TE regions. Our results depict SlMET1‐ and tissue culture‐dependent tomato DNA methylomes, and that SlMET1 is required for maintaining a normal transcriptome and normal development of tomato.
Exploring a Model for Integrating Child Development Accounts with Social Services for Vulnerable Families
Authors: Huang Jin , Beverly Sondra G. , Kim Youngmi , Clancy Margaret M. , Sherraden Michael
Published: January 2019

In the financial capability intervention known as Child Development Accounts (CDAs), incentives with savings or investment accounts enable families (especially vulnerable ones) to accumulate assets for children's developmental and life‐cycle needs. With data from SEED for Oklahoma Kids (OK), a randomized statewide policy experiment, we examined a CDA intervention's effects on a subsample of low‐income families in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Head Start. Results from simultaneous equation modeling suggest that the intervention has positive, statistically significant impacts on financial and social‐development outcomes. Findings provide empirical support for a new model for integrating the accounts with other social services for economically vulnerable populations. The centralized account platform used in SEED OK seems essential to providing CDAs on a large scale, which would enable opportunities for integration with federal‐ and state‐funded social service programs.
The role of structural genomic variants in population differentiation and ecotype formation in Timema cristinae walking sticks
Authors: Lucek Kay , Gompert Zachariah , Nosil Patrik
Published: January 2019

Theory predicts that structural genomic variants such as inversions can promote adaptive diversification and speciation. Despite increasing empirical evidence that adaptive divergence can be triggered by one or a few large inversions, the degree to which widespread genomic regions under divergent selection are associated with structural variants remains unclear. Here we test for an association between structural variants and genomic regions that underlie parallel host‐plant‐associated ecotype formation in Timema cristinae stick insects. Using mate‐pair resequencing of 20 new whole genomes we find that moderately sized structural variants such as inversions, deletions and duplications are widespread across the genome, being retained as standing variation within and among populations. Using 160 previously published, standard‐orientation whole genome sequences we find little to no evidence that the DNA sequences within inversions exhibit accentuated differentiation between ecotypes. In contrast, a formerly described large region of reduced recombination that harbours genes controlling colour‐pattern exhibits evidence for accentuated differentiation between ecotypes, which is consistent with differences in the frequency of colour‐pattern morphs between host‐associated ecotypes. Our results suggest that some types of structural variants (e.g., large inversions) are more likely to underlie adaptive divergence than others, and that structural variants are not required for subtle yet genome‐wide genetic differentiation with gene flow.
Ballots and barricades enhanced: far‐right ‘movement parties’ and movement‐electoral interactions
Authors: Pirro Andrea L. P.
Published: January 2019

Far‐right organisations offer an ideal common ground to bridge the scholarships on social movements and party politics. Indeed, they can be often interpreted as ‘movement parties’, i.e. hybrid collective actors spurring from the protest arena and translating social movement practices in the arena of party competition. This contribution enhances our understanding of the contemporary far right by focusing on the neglected links between movements and elections within the broader context of contention. The article assesses and refines propositions about such interactions through the adoption of a specific framework, ultimately showing that the Hungarian Jobbik consistently subscribed to the linkage mechanisms discussed.
Tinel sign to the median nerve area caused by a proximal tumor as detected by magnetic resonance neurography: Two case reports
Authors: Narita Yugo , Fukuroku Keiko , Matsuyama Hirofumi , Ii Yuichiro , Maeda Masayuki , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: January 2019

Tinel sign is a sensitive clinical indicator for the location of nerve lesions, while magnetic resonance imaging is an efficient tool for lesion diagnosis. Several imaging studies of the Tinel sign with a short distance median nerve have been reported. However, few studies have examined the Tinel sign provoked by a distant lesion or its findings in magnetic resonance neurography. Herein, we report our peripheral nerve conduction and magnetic resonance neurography findings for two women with Tinel signs in the median nerve with a long distance caused by a proximal tumor. Case 1 showed a mass at the proximal superior trunk of the brachial plexus, originating from the fifth cervical spinal root. Case 2 showed a mass at the proximal median nerve at the axilla. There were no changes in symptoms or Tinel signs in either case, and no abnormalities in nerve conduction studies including F waves, for >2 years.
Leadless pacing: Going for the jugular
Authors: Saleem‐Talib Shmaila , van Driel Vincent J. , Chaldoupi Sevasti‐Maria , Nikolic Tanja , van Wessel Harry , Borleffs C. Jan Willem , Ramanna Hemanth
Published: January 2019

Background

Leadless pacing is generally performed from a femoral approach. However, the femoral route is not always available. Until now, data regarding implantation using a jugular approach other than a single‐case report were lacking.

Methods

The case records of all patients who underwent internal jugular venous (IJV) leadless pacemaker implantation (Micra, Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) at our center were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Nineteen patients underwent IJV leadless pacemaker implantation, nine females, mean age of 77.5 ±9.6  years; permanent atrial fibrillation in all patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction. Implant indication was atrioventricular conduction disturbance in 10, pre‐AV node ablation in seven, and replacement of a conventional VVI pacemaker in two (infection in one and lead malfunction in the other). The device was positioned at the superior septum in seven patients, apicoseptal in seven patients, and midseptal in five patients. In 12 patients, a sufficient device position was obtained at the first attempt, in three at the second, in one at the third, in one at the fourth, and in two at the sixth attempt.

The mean pacing threshold was 0.56 ± 0.39V at 0.24‐ms pulse width, sensed amplitude was 9.1 ± 3.2 mV, mean fluoroscopy duration was 3.1 ± 1.6 min. There were no vascular or other complications. At follow‐up, electrical parameters remained stable in 18 of 19 patients.

Conclusion

Although experience is minimal, we suggest that the IJV approach is safe and may be considered in patients where the femoral approach is contraindicated.
Value of renal pelvic diameter and urinary tract dilation classification in the prediction of urinary tract anomaly
Authors: Cakici Evrim Kargin , Aydog Ozlem , Eroglu Fehime Kara , Yazilitas Fatma , Ozlu Sare Gulfem , Uner Cigdem , Renda Rahime , Yılmaz Engin , Bulbul Mehmet
Published: January 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to identify the cut‐offs of postnatal anteroposterior renal pelvic diameter (APRPD), according to the urinary tract dilation (UTD) classification system, to identify the predictors of final diagnosis of UTD and the need for surgery.

Methods

A total of 260 infants (336 renal units) with prenatally detected UTD were prospectively evaluated on serial ultrasonography by the same radiologist. Additional voiding cystourethrography and scintigraphy was done according to the clinical algorithm.

Results

Prenatal and postnatal APRPD in patients with transient dilation were significantly lower than in those with urinary tract anomalies (UTA). On follow up, the slope of decrease in APRPD was significantly higher in transient dilation compared with UTA. APRPD 10 mm at first‐month ultrasonography, predicted UTA with a sensitivity of 83.1%, and specificity of 71.1%. On multivariate analysis the likelihood of surgical intervention and final diagnosis were predicted independently by the UTD system risk group.

Conclusions

Careful ultrasonography evaluation can avoid unnecessary testing in patients with transient or clinically insignificant dilation. The UTD classification system is valid for evaluation of postnatal hydronephrosis and is reliable in predicting the need for surgical intervention.
Nectar yeasts enhance the interaction between Clematis akebioides and its bumblebee pollinator
Authors: Yang M. , Deng G.‐C. , Gong Y.‐B. , Huang S.‐Q.
Published: January 2019

It has been hypothesised that intense metabolism of nectar‐inhabiting yeasts (NIY) may change nectar chemistry, including volatile profile, which may affect pollinator foraging behaviours and consequently plant fitness. However, empirical evidence for the plant–microbe–pollinator interactions remains little known.

To test this hypothesis, we use a bumblebee‐pollinated vine Clematis akebioides endemic to southwest China as an experimental model plant. To quantify the incidence and density of Metschnikowia reukaufii, a cosmopolitan NIY in floral nectar, a combination of yeast cultivation and microscopic cell‐counting method was used. To examine the effects of NIY on plant–pollinator interactions, we used real flowers filled with artificial nectar with or without yeast cells. Then the volatile metabolites produced in the yeast‐inoculated nectar were analysed with coupled gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC‐MS).

On average 79.3% of the C. akebioides flowers harboured M. reukaufii, and cell density of NIY was high to 7.4 × 104 cells mm−3. In the field population, the presence of NIY in flowers of C. akebioides increased bumblebee (Bombus friseanus) pollinator visitation rate and consequently seed set per flower. A variety of fatty acid derivatives produced by M. reukaufii may be responsible for the above beneficial interactions.

The volatiles produced by the metabolism of M. reukaufii may serve as an honest signal to attract bumblebee pollinators and indirectly promote the female reproductive fitness of C. akebioides, forming a potentially tripartite plant–microbe–pollinator mutualism.
The effects of time, temperature and plant variety on pollen viability and its implications for gene flow risk
Authors: Brunet J. , Ziobro R. , Osvatic J. , Clayton M. K.
Published: January 2019

Pollen viability affects the probability that a pollen grain deposited on a plant's stigma will produce a viable seed. Because a mature seed is needed before a gene flow event can occur, pollen viability will influence the risk of escape for genetically engineered (GE) crops.

Pollen viability was measured at intervals for up to 2 h following removal of the pollen from the anthers. It was quantified at three temperatures and for different alfalfa varieties, including both conventional and Roundup Ready (RR) varieties. Pollen viability was assessed using in vitro germination.

Time since removal from the anthers was the most prevalent factor affecting pollen viability in alfalfa. Pollen viability declined with increasing time at all three temperatures and for all varieties tested. Pollen viability was not affected by temperatures ranging between 25 and 37 °C and did not vary among plant varieties, including conventional and RR varieties.

Bee foraging behaviour suggested pollen viability within the first 10 min following pollen removal from a flower to most affect seed production. Pollen longevity was predicted to have little impact on seed set and gene flow. Linking pollinator behaviour to pollen viability improved our understanding of its impact on gene flow risk.
Production Coopetition Strategies for Competing Manufacturers that Produce Partially Substitutable Products
Authors: Chen Xu , Wang Xiaojun , Xia Yusen
Published: January 2019

This study examines the strategic choices of two rival manufacturers between competition and coopetition. A complex relationship exists between these two firms, who manufacture substitutive products. In addition, each of these firms has an option to purchase (or sell) a key component from (or to) the other. We develop a benchmark competition model and two coopetition models in which the manufacturers compete for end‐customer demand while simultaneously collaborating on component production through wholesaling (wholesaling coopetition) or licensing (license coopetition). By comparing the equilibria of the competition model and two coopetition models, we find that the optimal strategy for coopetition is determined by not only the degree of product substitution but also the inter–firm power relationship in the negotiation of a cooperation contract (i.e., wholesale price and license fees) and the difference in production efficiency between the two manufacturers. Our research comprehensively examines how the external, relationship‐specific, and internal factors affect firms’ optimal strategy selection and suggests a broad set of decision outcomes. Our study provides important managerial implications that can be utilized as strategic guidance for firms to pursue coopetition in various business environments.
Effects of emotions on heart rate asymmetry
Authors: Kaczmarek Lukasz D. , Behnke Maciej , Enko Jolanta , Kosakowski Michał , Hughes Brian M. , Piskorski Jaroslaw , Guzik Przemysław
Published: January 2019

Heart rate asymmetry (HRA) is an index that accounts for an uneven contribution of decelerations and accelerations to the heart rate variability (HRV). Clinical studies indicated that HRA measures have additive clinical value over the more frequently used HRV indexes. Despite the abundance of studies on psychological influences on HRV, little is known whether psychological factors influence HRA. Based on previous research regarding HRA and stress, we expected that negative emotions compared to positive emotions would decrease the contribution of decelerations to HRV. Thirty female participants watched three clips that produced negative emotions, positive emotions, and neutral affect. Besides electrocardiogram, we measured several physiological and behavioral responses to ascertain the affective impact of the clips. Using the RR interval time series, we calculated HRV and HRA indexes. We found that HRA differentiated between positive emotions and negative emotions reactivity. Positive emotions produced a higher number of decelerations in short‐term variability to the total short‐term variability (C1d) compared to negative emotions. Moreover,C1dcorrelated with subjective ratings of affect. In sum, the results of this study indicated that HRA is sensitive to psychological influences. HRA indexes are likely to contribute to a more nuanced physiological differentiation between emotions.
Craniectomía descompresiva para empiema por Aggregatibacter aphrophilus: revisión de la literatura y presentación de caso
Authors: Feo Lee Oscar , Ladino Patiño Sergio Ivan
Published: January 2019

El empiema subdural es una patología rara que ocurre secundaria a otra infección en el complejo craneofacial; puede ser por una otitis media o por sinusitis en la mayoría de los casos. Por esto, normalmente, los gérmenes asociados con esta patología son los mismos encontrados en el oído medio y en los senos paranasales. A veces, un microrganismo raro causa el absceso, caso de este paciente, quien ingresó al hospital con dolor ocular y rápidamente progresó a un déficit neurológico causado por la bacteria Aggregatibacter aphrophilus. El caso tuvo una rápida intervención de todos los servicios involucrados. Neurocirugía drenó el empiema mediante trepano; posteriormente, el paciente requirió ventriculostomía y craniectomía descompresiva. El objetivo de esta revisión de la literatura es determinar qué dice la evidencia acerca del drenaje de empiemas mediante trepano o el uso temprano de craniectomía en este tipo de pacientes.
Local and Global Responses of a Floating Bridge Under Ship–Girder Collisions
Authors: Sha Yanyan , Amdahl Jørgen , Dørum Cato
Published: January 2019

The Norwegian Public Roads Administration is running a project “Ferry Free Coastal Route E39” to replace existing ferry crossings by bridges across eight fjords in western Norway. Since most of the fjords are wide and deep, construction of traditional bridges with fixed foundations is not possible. Therefore, floating bridge concepts are proposed for the fjord-crossing project. Since the floating foundations of the bridges are close to the water surface, the concern of accidental ship collisions is raised. Considering the displacement and speed of the passing ships and the significant compliance of the bridge, interaction between the bridge and the ship can be significant should a collision occur. Many studies have been conducted on ship collision with bridge structures with a special focus on bridge piers. However, the research on ship collision with bridge girders is quite limited. The purpose of this study is to investigate the collision response of a floating bridge for ship–girder collision events. Both the local structural damage and the global dynamic response of the bridge are assessed. Local structural deformation and damage are first investigated by numerical simulations with detailed finite element (FE) models in ls-dyna. Subsequently, the bridge global response to the collision loads is analyzed in usfos using the force–deformation curves from the local analysis. By combining the local and global analysis results, a comprehensive overview of the bridge response during ship–girder collisions can be obtained.
Simulations Based on Product-Usage Information From Connected Products to Support Redesign for Improved Performance: Exploration of Practical Application to Domestic Fridge-Freezers
Authors: van der Vegte Wilhelm Frederik , Kurt Fatih , Şengöz Oğuz Kerem
Published: January 2019

The real-life use of a product is often hard to foresee during its development. Fortunately, today's connective products offer the opportunity to collect information about user actions, which enables companies to investigate the actual use for the benefit of next-generation products. A promising application opportunity is to input the information to engineering simulations and increase their realism to (i) reveal how use-related phenomena influence product performance and (ii) to evaluate design variations on how they succeed in coping with real users and their behaviors. In this article, we explore time-stamped usage data from connected fridge-freezers by investigating energy losses caused by door openings and by evaluating control-related design variations aimed at mitigating these effects. By using a fast-executing simulation setup, we could simulate much faster than real time and investigate usage over a longer time. We showed that a simple, single-cycle load pattern based on aggregated input data can be simulated even faster but only produce rough estimates of the outcomes. Our model was devised to explore application potential rather than producing the most accurate predictions. Subject to this reservation, our outcomes indicate that door openings do not affect energy consumption as much as some literature suggests. Through what-if studies we could evaluate three design variations and nevertheless point out that particular solution elements resulted in more energy-efficient ways of dealing with door openings. Based on our findings, we discuss possible impacts on product design practice for companies seeking to collect and exploit usage data from connected products in combination with simulations.
In-Plane Flexible Beam on Elastic Foundation With Combined Sidewall Stiffness Tire Model for Heavy-Loaded Off-Road Tire
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Gao Qinhe , Niu Hailong
Published: January 2019

Combining the flexible carcass beam and the radial sidewall element, flexible beam on elastic foundation with combined sidewall stiffness tire model is proposed for heavy-loaded off-road tire with a large section ratio. The circumferential vibration of flexible carcass is modeled as Euler beam and the influence of inflation pressure on the circumferential vibration of flexible carcass is investigated with the modal experiment and theoretical modeling. The structural stiffness caused by the sidewall curvature and pretension stiffness caused by the inflation pressure is combined for the radial sidewall element. The influence of the sidewall structural parameters on the combined stiffness of sidewall and modal resonant frequency is researched and discussed. The nonlinear combined stiffness of sidewall is investigated with respect to the radial sidewall deformation. Experimental and theoretical results show that: (1) the combined stiffness of sidewall can character the pretension stiffness caused by inflation pressure and the structural stiffness led by the sidewall curvature and material properties and (2) the combined stiffness of sidewall is nonlinear with respect to the radial sidewall deformation, which is prominent with high inflation pressure. Taking the flexibility characteristic of tire carcass and the nonlinear stiffness of sidewall into consideration, flexible beam on elastic foundation with combined sidewall stiffness tire model is suitable for the heavy-loaded off-road tire with a large section ratio or tires under impulsive loading and large deformation.
Experimental Investigation on the Feasibility of Heat Pipe-Based Thermal Management System to Prevent Thermal Runaway Propagation
Authors: Wang Shuoqi , Lu Languang , Ren Dongsheng , Feng Xuning , Gao Shang , Ouyang Minggao
Published: January 2019

Thermal management system (TMS) plays an essential part in improving the safety and durability of the battery pack. Prior studies mainly focused on controlling the maximum temperature and temperature difference of the battery pack. Little attention has been paid to the influence of the TMS on thermal runaway (TR) prevention of battery packs. In this paper, a heat pipe-based thermal management system (HPTMS) is designed and investigated to illustrate both the capabilities of temperature controlling and TR propagation preventing. Good thermal performance could be achieved under discharge and charge cycles of both 2 C rate and 3 C rate while the equivalent heat dissipation coefficient of the HPTMS is calculated above 70 W/(m2·K). In the TR propagation test triggered by overcharge, the surface temperature of the battery adjacent to the overcharged cell can be controlled below 215 °C, the onset temperature of TR obtained by the adiabatic TR test of a single cell. Therefore, TR propagation is prevented due to the high heat dissipation of the HPTMS. To conclude, the proposed HPTMS is an effective solution for the battery pack to maintain the operating temperature and improve the safety level under abuse conditions.
Rutherford backscattering spectrometry analysis of InGaAs nanostructures
Authors: Laricchiuta Grazia , Vandervorst Wilfried , Vickridge Ian , Mayer Matej , Meersschaut Johan
Published: January 2019

In this work, the authors demonstrate that Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) can be extended from a metrology concept applied to blanket films toward a method to analyze confined nanostructures. By a combination of measurements on an ensemble of devices and extensive simulations, it is feasible to quantify the composition of InGaAs nanostructures (16–50 nm) embedded periodically in an SiO2 matrix. The methodology is based on measuring multiple fins simultaneously while using the geometrical shape of the structures, obtained from a transmission electron microscopy analysis, as input for a multitude of trajectory calculations. In this way, the authors are able to reproduce the RBS spectra and to demonstrate the sensitivity of the RBS spectra to the quantitative elemental composition of the nanostructures and to variations of their shape and mean areal coverage down to one nanometer. Thus, the authors establish RBS as a viable quantitative characterization technique to probe the composition and structure of periodic arrays of nanostructures.
Dipoles in quantum field theory
Authors: Miyahira William , Latimer David C.
Published: January 2019

In quantum field theory, a fundamental spin-12 particle can have intrinsic magnetic and electric dipole moments. Herein, we examine the way in which a charged fermion or photon is scattered by a massive neutral fermion via its dipole moment. In the low-energy limit, the field theoretic scattering amplitude can be related to a semi-classical electromagnetic interaction Hamiltonian. We find, in this limit, that the dipole field of the fundamental particle is that of a classical pure dipole, including the correct contact field. Additionally, we examine the optical properties of a medium consisting of magnetic dipoles. By computing the Compton scattering amplitude for a magnetic dipole, we find that a medium of polarized dipoles is circularly birefringent; that is, the index of refraction depends upon the polarization of the light. Our presentation is geared toward advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students.
Entangle me! A game to demonstrate the principles of quantum mechanics
Authors: López-Incera Andrea , Dür Wolfgang
Published: January 2019

We introduce a game to illustrate the principles of quantum mechanics using a qubit (or spin-first) approach, where students can experience and discover its puzzling features first-hand. Students play the role of particles and scientists. Scientists unravel underlying rules and properties by collecting and analysing data that are generated by observing particles that act according to the given rules. We show how this allows one to illustrate quantum states and their stochastic behavior under measurements as well as quantum entanglement. In addition, we use this approach to illustrate and discuss decoherence and a modern application of quantum features, namely, quantum cryptography. We have tested the game in the class and report on the results that we obtained.
Standards for distribution models in biodiversity assessments
Authors: Araújo Miguel B. , Anderson Robert P. , Márcia Barbosa A. , Beale Colin M. , Dormann Carsten F. , Early Regan , Garcia Raquel A. , Guisan Antoine , Maiorano Luigi , Naimi Babak , O’Hara Robert B. , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Rahbek Carsten
Published: January 2019

Biodiversity assessments use a variety of data and models. We propose best-practice standards for studies in these assessments.
Universal scaling across biochemical networks on Earth
Authors: Kim Hyunju , Smith Harrison B. , Mathis Cole , Raymond Jason , Walker Sara I.
Published: January 2019

Studying biochemical networks at a planetary scale reveals a deeper level of organization than what has been understood so far.
Ten robotics technologies of the year
Authors: Yang Guang-Zhong , Full Robert J. , Jacobstein Neil , Fischer Peer , Bellingham James , Choset Howie , Christensen Henrik , Dario Paolo , Nelson Bradley J. , Taylor Russell
Published: January 2019

We identify 10 exciting robotics developments and technologies, ranging from original research to commercial products.