bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytogenetic and FISH analysis of 93 multiple myeloma Moroccan patients
Authors: Hamdaoui Hasna , Benlarroubia Oumaima , Ait Boujmia Oum Kaltoum , Mossafa Hossein , Ouldim Karim , Belkhayat Aziza , Smyej Imane , Benrahma Houda , Dehbi Hind , Chegdani Fatima
Published: June 2020

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease characterized by heterogeneous clinical presentations as well as complex genetic and molecular abnormalities. In MM, cytogenetic analysis is a challenge because of the low proliferation of malignant plasma cells. Thus, interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), performed on sorted plasma cells detected abnormalities independently of a proliferative and infiltrative index. The purpose of this study was to explore, for the first time, the cytogenetic and molecular genetics features in Moroccan patients with multiple myeloma referred exclusively to National Reference Laboratory and to determine their risk stratification based on these features.

Methods

We performed cytogenetic analysis on 93 MM cases, all patients were subjected to FISH analysis, among which 45 patients have benefited from both FISH analysis and standard karyotype.

Results

Karyotype was normal in 78% (35/45) while, it was complex with varied structural and numerical abnormalities in 22% (10/45) of all patients, among which Hyperdiploid karyotype was found in 9% (n = 4 cases) and nonhyperdiploid in 13% (n = 6 cases). The most common numerical abnormalities were gains of chromosomes 3, 5, 9, 15, and 19. Whole chromosome losses were also frequent, affecting chromosomes X, 3, 14, 16 and 22. FISH analysis detected abnormalities in 50% of cases. The translocation t(4;14) and dup (1q) were the most frequent types of anomalies (14% and 13% respectively), followed by (17p) deletion and 14q32/IGH translocations with an undetermined origin (12% each) then the (1p) deletion (4%). For the normal karyotypes, FISH revealed chromosome abnormalities in 46%.

Conclusion

This study compares the results of cytogenetic analysis of chromosomal abnormalities in the Moroccan population with other countries. ½ patient showed at least one type of molecular genetic abnormalities. Therefore, the introducing of the cytogenetic analysis is obligatory in the diagnosis of multiple myeloma.
Investigation of inter‐fraction target motion variations in the context of pencil beam scanned proton therapy in non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: den Otter Lydia A. , Anakotta Renske M. , Weessies Menkedina , Roos Catharina T. G. , Sijtsema Nanna M. , Muijs Christina T. , Dieters Margriet , Wijsman Robin , Troost Esther G. C. , Richter Christian , Meijers Arturs , Langendijk Johannes A. , Both Stefan , Knopf Antje‐Christin
Published: June 2020

Purpose

For locally advanced‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), inter‐fraction target motion variations during the whole time span of a fractionated treatment course are assessed in a large and representative patient cohort. The primary objective is to develop a suitable motion monitoring strategy for pencil beam scanning proton therapy (PBS‐PT) treatments of NSCLC patients during free breathing.

Methods

Weekly 4D computed tomography (4DCT; 41 patients) and daily 4D cone beam computed tomography (4DCBCT; 10 of 41 patients) scans were analyzed for a fully fractionated treatment course. Gross tumor volumes (GTVs) were contoured and the 3D displacement vectors of the centroid positions were compared for all scans. Furthermore, motion amplitude variations in different lung segments were statistically analyzed. The dosimetric impact of target motion variations and target motion assessment was investigated in exemplary patient cases.

Results

The median observed centroid motion was 3.4 mm (range: 0.2–12.4 mm) with an average variation of 2.2 mm (range: 0.1–8.8 mm). Ten of 32 patients (31.3%) with an initial motion <5 mm increased beyond a 5‐mm motion amplitude during the treatment course. Motion observed in the 4DCBCT scans deviated on average 1.5 mm (range: 0.0–6.0 mm) from the motion observed in the 4DCTs. Larger motion variations for one example patient compromised treatment plan robustness while no dosimetric influence was seen due to motion assessment biases in another example case.

Conclusions

Target motion variations were investigated during the course of radiotherapy for NSCLC patients. Patients with initial GTV motion amplitudes of < 2 mm can be assumed to be stable in motion during the treatment course. For treatments of NSCLC patients who exhibit motion amplitudes of > 2 mm, 4DCBCT should be considered for motion monitoring due to substantial motion variations observed.
Minimizing the echo time in diffusion imaging using spiral readouts and a head gradient system
Authors: Wilm Bertram Jakob , Hennel Franciszek , Roesler Manuela Barbara , Weiger Markus , Pruessmann Klaas Paul
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is commonly limited by low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) as well as motion artifacts. To address this limitation, a method that allows to maximize the achievable signal yield and increase the resolution in motion robust single‐shot DWI is presented.

Methods

DWI was performed on a 3T scanner equipped with a recently developed gradient insert (gradient strength: 200 mT/m, slew rate: 600 T/m/s). To further shorten the echo time, Stejskal‐Tanner diffusion encoding with a single‐shot spiral readout was implemented. To allow non‐Cartesian image reconstruction using such strong and fast gradients, the characterization of eddy current and concomitant field effects was performed based on field‐camera measurements.

Results

An echo time of only 19 ms was achieved for a b‐factor of 1000 s/mm2. An in‐plane resolution of 0.68 mm was encoded by a single‐shot spiral readout of 40.5 ms using 3‐fold undersampling. The resulting images did not suffer from off‐resonance artifacts and

blurring that are common to single‐shot images acquired with regular gradient systems.

Conclusion

Spiral diffusion imaging using a head gradient system, together with an accurate characterization of the encoding process allows for a substantial reduction of the echo time, and improves the achievable resolution in motion‐insensitive single‐shot DWI.
The efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA in patients with previous failed augmentation cystoplasty: Cohort series and literature review
Authors: Toia Bogdan , Pakzad Mahreen H. , Hamid Rizwan , Wood Dan N , Greenwell Tamsin J. , Ockrim Jeremy L.
Published: June 2020

Aims

To investigate the role of onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX‐A) injections in patients with failed augmentation cystoplasty for neuropathic or idiopathic detrusor overactivity (NDO or IDO).

Methods

A retrospective review of all cystoplasty patients who underwent onabotulinumtoxinA injection at a tertiary center between 2008 and 2019 was performed. Details including indications and time from cystoplasty, video‐urodynamic parameters, onabotulinumtoxinA dose, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Telephone interview was performed for patients that requested repeat onabotulinumtoxinA injections. The interview included a modified PGIC7 and UDI6 questionnaires. A positive clinical response was considered improvement of overactive symptoms sufficient to merit repeat onabotulinumtoxinA injection and a modified PGIC7 of four or above.

Results

Thirty patients were identified (11 men and 19 women). The indications for augmentation were IDO (n = 18) or NDO (n = 12). Mean age at the time of cystoplasty was 42 years (range, 10‐61). Interval between cystoplasty and initial onabotulinumtoxinA was 98 months (range, 3‐271). Video‐urodynamics before onabotulinumtoxinA revealed low compliance in 13 patients, DO in 22 patients, and combined low compliance/DO in 10. The median maximum cystometric bladder capacity was 338 mL (range, 77‐570 mL). Thirteen patients responded to onabotulinumtoxinA injections. Higher peak DO pressure was associated with a significantly higher chance that the patient would experience benefit from the injections P = .026). The patients that responded to onabotulinumtoxin A underwent a total of 115 procedures (mean, 8.8 injections) over a mean 88 months (range, 20‐157 months).

Conclusions

Forty‐three percent of patients responded well to intra‐detrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections. This avoided the need for more invasive surgery and had a positive impact on their quality of life.
The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires (ICIQ): An update on status and direction
Authors: Uren Alan D. , Cotterill Nikki , Pardoe Megan , Abrams Paul
Published: June 2020

Aims

In its 22nd year, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) project continues to promote its primary objective; the development and dissemination of patient completed questionnaires for the standardized, high‐quality assessment of urinary, bowel, and vaginal symptoms. The paper gives an update on the ICIQ in the context of current scientific developments of PROM design and regulatory requirements, and plans are outlined for its future direction.

Methods

An online library of all questionnaires, including over 300 translations has been launched to facilitate access through a semi‐automated registration system. The ICIQ project continues to update its protocol to meet current scientific standards and incorporate methodological advances within PROM development.

Results

Nineteen psychometrically validated patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) are published for use in clinical practice and research, including amongst others, a bladder diary, male and female lower urinary tract symptoms, long term catheter, pad use, and bowel symptom questionnaires. The original ICIQ‐UI Short Form for the assessment of urinary incontinence continues to be the most internationally used questionnaire and has been translated into over 60 languages. New questionnaires which are under development include the ICIQ‐Underactive Bladder and ICIQ‐Satisfaction. We anticipate the new website and online library will further facilitate the ease of dissemination and availability of the questionnaires for clinical practice and research.

Conclusion

The ICIQ continues to successfully achieve its primary objective. Going forward, a greater focus on promoting routine clinical use and the potential for electronic integration into databases and medical records is envisaged.
Walking in the Light: How History of Physical Activity, Sunlight, and Vitamin D Account for Body Fat—A UK Biobank Study
Authors: Klinedinst Brandon S. , Meier Nathan F. , Larsen Brittany , Wang Yueying , Yu Shan , Mochel Jonathan P. , Le Scott , Wolf Tovah , Pollpeter Amy , Pappas Colleen , Wang Qian , Allenspach Karin , Wang Li , Russell Daniel , Bennett David A. , Willette Auriel A.
Published: June 2020

Objective

The high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and obesity drives the need for successful strategies that elevate vitamin D levels, prevent adipogenesis, and stimulate lipolysis. This study provides a theoretical model to evaluate how physical activity (PA) and sunlight exposure influence serum vitamin D levels and regional adiposity. This study hypothesized a posteriori that sunlight is associated with undifferentiated visceral adiposity by increasing the ratio of brown to white adipose tissue.

Methods

Using 10‐year longitudinal data, accelerometry, a sun‐exposure questionnaire, and regional adiposity quantified by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry imaging, a structural‐equation mediation model of growth curves was constructed with a data‐driven methodology.

Results

Sunlight and PA conjointly increased serum vitamin D. Changes in vitamin D levels partially mediated how sunlight and PA impacted adiposity in visceral and subcutaneous regions within a subjective PA model. In an objective PA model, vitamin D was a mediator for subcutaneous regions only. Interestingly, sunlight was associated with less adiposity in subcutaneous regions but greater adiposity in visceral regions.

Conclusions

Sunlight and PA may increase vitamin D levels. For the first time, this study characterizes a positive association between sunlight and visceral adiposity. Further investigation and experimentation are necessary to clarify the physiological role of sunlight exposure on adipose tissue.
Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma—Impact of locoregional approach on patient outcome: A report from the European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG)
Authors: Rogers Timothy N. , De Corti Federica , Burrieza Gabriela Guillén , Guérin Florent , Terwisscha van Scheltinga Sheila , Smeulders Naima , Craigie Ross , Jenney Meriel , Kelsey Anna , Zanetti Ilaria , Coppadoro Beatrice , De Salvo Gian Luca , Bisogno Gianni , Martelli Hélène
Published: June 2020

Background

Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma (PT RMS) is rare compared to benign scrotal pathology. Inappropriate first surgery (InFS) required supplementary treatment to maintain excellent outcomes. Initial staging of regional lymph nodes is important. The aim of this study was to determine to what extent the quality of locoregional approach impacted on patient morbidity and survival.

Design/methods

Analysis was performed on all nonmetastatic PT RMS patients enrolled in the European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG) RMS 2005 protocol. Aspects assessed were adherence to surgical guidelines and impact of protocol violations, relapse analysis, and survival outcomes.

Results

Analysis was performed on 237 patients, with median follow up of 67.1 months. Median age was 9.0 years. InFS occurred in 75 of 237 (32%) patients. InFS required intensified chemotherapy (10) and local therapy. After InFS, 61 required primary reexcision and five delayed surgery. Of 26 recurrences, the risk of relapse was higher in patients ≥10 years (21/26) and was mainly locoregional in 16 of 26 recurrences (± metastatic). Sixteen of 26 died with 14 of 16 patients ≥10 years. Nodal relapse neither occurred when N1 nodes were identified at diagnosis, nor after surgical staging. Five‐year overall survival (OS) at age <10 years versus ≥10 years was 98.1 and 86.7%, respectively (P = .0013). Event‐free survival (EFS) at age <10 years versus ≥10 years was 95.8 and 79.6%, respectively (P = .0004). OS and EFS did not highlight a significant difference in patients undergoing appropriate versus InFS (P = .8479, P = .2780, respectively).

Conclusions

InFS required intensified therapy to maintain excellent OS and EFS, so better anticipation of malignancy is required. Surgical staging of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes should be performed in patients ≥10 years old.
Comprehensive quality evaluation of Lignum Caraganae and rapid discrimination of Caragana jubata and Caragana changduensis based on characteristic compound fingerprints by HPLC‐UV and HPLC‐MS/MS coupled with chemometrics analysis
Authors: Wang Qiulin , Wu Xun , Yang Xuedong , Zhang Yi , Wang Lina , Li Xiaoxue , Qiu Yan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Caragana jubata Poir (CJ) and Caragana changduensis Liou f. (CC) are the two main original plants of Lignum Caraganae (LIC, a clinically effective Tibetan materia medica) and the red heartwoods of CJ and CC have been used for the treatment of polycythemia, hypertension and menstrual disorders.

Objective

To establish a comprehensive method for rapid quality assessment of LIC based on revealing the characteristic components of LIC and to discriminate the plant sources and LIC from its adulterations.

Methodology

A multi‐index and synthetically balanced orthogonal design L9 (34) experiment was performed to obtain an efficient ultrasonic extraction condition of LIC sample. High‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with an ultraviolet detector (HPLC‐UV) techniques were developed for fingerprinting and quantitative analysis of 14 major compounds in LIC, and the main components were identified by HPLC tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS). HPLC fingerprint and chemometrics analysis were employed to visualise the distinction and relationship of LIC obtained from CJ and CC and to determine their potential characteristic markers.

Results

Fourteen compounds including a new compound were identified and quantified in LIC. The potential characteristic markers in LIC were identified based on qualitative and fingerprint analysis. The hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principle component analysis (PCA) showed obvious discrimination between LIC obtained from CJ and CC. Five batches of LIC samples were authenticated, and its adulterations were successfully found.

Conclusion

A facile HPLC combined with fingerprint and chemometrics methods could rapidly evaluate the quality of LIC and discriminate LIC obtained from CJ and CC.
Antireflection and antiwetting functionalities of plasma‐nanotextured polymer surfaces with biomimetic nanopillars
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Li Yupeng , Muzammil Iqbal , Lei Mingkai
Published: June 2020

Inspired by the antireflection and antiwetting functionalities of dragonfly wings decorated with random nanopillars and a wax layer, a facile technique to endow the same functionalities has been devised. In this two‐step plasma nanotexturing technique, first oxygen plasma treatment is implemented to grow the random nanopillars on the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) surfaces, and then C4F8 plasma polymer deposition is carried out so that the thin fluorocarbon film with a low surface free energy and refraction index covers the random nanopillars. The biomimetic PMMA surfaces exhibit excellent broadband and omnidirectional antireflection properties and robust antiwetting properties under the water droplet impact. The superhydrophobicity at the slippery Cassie state was maintained under the natural oscillation of residual droplets.
Highlights from the 2019 North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference
Authors: Hoppe Jordana E. , Guimbellot Jennifer , Martiniano Stacey L. , Toprak Demet , Davis Chelsea , Daines Cori L. , Muhlebach Marianne S. , Esther Charles R. , Dellon Elisabeth P.
Published: June 2020

This review briefly summarizes presentations in several major topic areas at the conference: pathophysiology and basic science of cystic fibrosis lung disease, clinical trials, clinical quality improvement, microbiology and treatment of infection, and transition, advanced lung disease and transplant, mental health and psychosocial concerns. The review is intended to highlight several areas and is not a comprehensive summary of the conference. Citations from the conference are by the first author and abstract number or symposium number, as designated in the supplement.
Fungal prostatitis due to endemic mycoses and Cryptococcus: A multicenter case series
Authors: Epstein David J. , Thompson Lester D. R. , Saleem Atif , Kao Chia‐Sui , Epstein Jonathan I.
Published: June 2020

Background

Fungal prostatitis is exceedingly rare with mostly case reports.

Methods

Electronic medical records at three medical centers were searched for cases of fungal prostatitis due to endemic mycoses and Cryptococcus over the preceding 10 years.

Results

Seven cases were identified from 105 600 prostate biopsies within the Southern California Permanente Medical Group for an incidence of 0.0066%. An additional eight cases were identified from two other health care systems. Excluding four patients without available clinical data, 11 patients were reviewed, most of whom underwent biopsy due to elevated prostate‐specific antigen. Four were asymptomatic and the remainder had nonspecific signs or symptoms. All biopsies revealed granulomatous inflammation and fungal organisms. Seven patients had coccidioidomycosis, three patients had cryptococcosis (confirmed in two cases and suspected by organism morphology in the other), and one patient had likely histoplasmosis based on organism morphology. Prolonged antifungal treatment was standard; outcomes were favorable.

Conclusion

Fungal prostatitis due to endemic mycoses and Cryptococcus is uncommon and associated with favorable outcomes but generally involves prolonged therapy.
Establishing a framework of analysis for selective sorting and changing health gradients
Authors: Darlington‐Pollock Frances , Norman Paul
Published: June 2020

Health inequalities research seeks to determine if changing health gradients may be due to the movement of differently healthy people between area types and/or social classes through a process of selective sorting. Because conclusions vary, in part because of different approaches employed, there is a need to establish an appropriate framework within which it is possible to determine whether and how spatial or social mobility contributes to changing spatial and social inequalities in health over time. In this paper, we present empirical examples demonstrating a methodological approach needed to determine aggregate changes in health, and discuss the results in terms of the impact of selective sorting on changing health gradients. Our empirical work illustrates that selective sorting through social mobility and migration can contribute to widening health inequalities in the population. We conclude that it is necessary to re‐aggregate microdata at the relevant time points of interest to determine changes in the population distribution of a particular health outcome. Simply establishing whether individuals vary in health by transition status may imply an impact on aggregate changes but does not demonstrate it.
Past Achievements and Future Challenges in the Development of Infrared Antireflective and Protective Coatings
Authors: Guo Shuai , Yang Lei , Dai Bing , Geng Fangjuan , Ralchenko Victor , Han Jiecai , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: June 2020

Infrared (IR) antireflective and protective coating (ARPC) is crucial for the development of IR precision guidance and detection systems for practical applications, attracting significant attention from strong military powers worldwide. Extreme application environments require functional film to have high surface hardness, excellent stability, and good adhesion. Further, multispectral optical transmission demands extremely low absorption in the visible and far‐IR bands, adjustability of optical performance parameters, and optical antireflection in particular bands, and radar stealth requires a relatively low resistance. Herein, recent experimental progress on IR ARPC is reviewed and future opportunities are discussed. Based on the application environment and window substrate, various ARPC material systems, including diamond‐like C, Ge carbide, B phosphide, and oxides, have been developed. These systems are capable of fulfilling different application demands and demonstrate exciting application prospects. To promote the development of IR ARPC material technology, the basic characteristics, fabrication techniques, microscale structures, optical properties, mechanical properties, and development and applications of typical IR ARPC materials from a comprehensive and systematic perspective are presented.
3D TiO2/Diamond Ultraviolet Detector Using Back‐to‐Back Pd Schottky Electrode
Authors: Liu Zhangcheng , Zhao Dan , Min Tai , Wang Hongxing
Published: June 2020

The photoelectric properties of a 3D TiO2/diamond ultraviolet (UV) detector that uses symmetrical Pd Schottky electrodes are investigated. Because of the back‐to‐back Schottky contact between Pd and TiO2, the detector exhibits an extremely low dark current of 0.25 pA at 10 V. When the illuminating light wavelength is shorter than 260 nm, the photocurrent first increases and then decreases with the increase in the voltage, displaying a differential negative photoconductivity. Therefore, the responsivity in the deep UV region, which corresponds to a diamond photoresponse, increases at a low voltage whereas decreases at a high voltage. At 2 V, the responsivity reaches a maximum value of 5.32 mA W−1 at 215 nm and the 215/600 nm rejection ratio reaches 2 × 103.
Domain Wall Dynamics in Stepped Magnetic Nanowire with Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Al Risi Suleiman , Sbiaa Rachid , Al Bahri Mohammed
Published: June 2020

Micromagnetic simulation is carried out to investigate the current‐driven domain wall (DW) in a nanowire with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. A stepped nanowire is proposed to pin DW and achieve high information storage capacity based on multibit per cell scheme. The DW speed is found to increase for thicker and narrower nanowires. For depinning DW from the stepped region, the current density Jdep is investigated with emphasis on device geometry and material intrinsic properties. The Jdep can be analytically determined as a function of the nanoconstriction dimension and the thickness of the nanowire. Furthermore, Jdep is found to exponential dependent on the anisotropy energy and saturation magnetization, offering thus more flexibility in adjusting the writing current for memory applications.
Effect of Minor Addition of Oxygen on Bulk Metallic Glass Formation of Binary Cu–Zr Alloys via Containerless Processing
Authors: Mizuno Akitoshi , Harada Takeshi , Watanabe Masahito
Published: June 2020

The effect of oxygen content on the glass‐forming ability of binary Cu–Zr alloys is investigated by the in situ observation of the cooling process during the containerless solidification using an aerodynamic levitation technique. The oxygen content of ≈0.72 at% induces the crystallization of undercooled liquid Cu47Zr53 alloy, whereas that of ≈0.33 at% enhances the glass‐forming ability and leads to the formation of bulk metallic glass when compared with the alloy containing ≈0.20 at% of oxygen. The differential thermal analysis of the bulk metallic glass samples shows the extension of the undercooled liquid region with an increase in the oxygen content from 0.20 to 0.33 at% in the Cu47Zr53 alloy. Time‐resolved synchrotron X‐ray diffraction experiments reveal structure evolution of the Cu47Zr53 alloy from the undercooled liquid to glass or crystal. The effect of oxygen on the glass‐forming ability is qualitatively described in terms of reducing the critical cooling rate of the alloy.
Tetrahydrocurcumin mitigates acute hypobaric hypoxia‐induced cerebral oedema and inflammation through the NF‐κB/VEGF/MMP‐9 pathway
Authors: Pan Yang , Zhang Yan , Yuan Jiani , Ma Xuexinyu , Zhao Yani , Li Yao , Li Fei , Gong Xiaoli , Zhao Junning , Tang Haifeng , Wang Jianbo
Published: June 2020

High‐altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) is a potentially fatal manifestation of high‐altitude sickness and is caused partly by inflammation and the blood–brain barrier disruption. Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) has been reported to exert effective antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects; This study sought to elucidate the underlying mechanism of THC in mitigating HACE using a mouse model. Our results revealed that prophylactic administration of THC (40 mg/kg) for 3 days significantly alleviated the increase in brain water content (BWC), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and TNF‐α levels caused by acute hypobaric hypoxia (AHH). Additionally, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was increased by THC to enhance the ability to resist hypoxia. Histological and ultrastructural analysis of the cerebrum revealed that THC administration mitigated AHH‐induced pericellular oedema and reduced the perivascular space, resulting in the simultaneous remission of oedema and protection of mitochondria in the cerebrum. In vitro, astrocytes exposed to hypoxia (4% O2) for 24 hr exhibited and increase in IL‐1β expression followed by an increase in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels. Furthermore, THC administration remarkably downregulated VEGF, matrix metallopeptidase‐9 (MMP‐9), and nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) expression, both in vivo and in vitro. Our data highlight the potential prophylactic activity of THC in HACE, it effectively mitigates AHH‐induced cerebral oedema and inflammation is associated with the inhibition of the NF‐κB/ VEGF/MMP‐9 pathways.
Estimation of seroconversion rates for infectious diseases: Effects of age and noise
Authors: Teunis P. F. M. , van Eijkeren J. C. H.
Published: June 2020

The presence of serum antibodies is a biomarker of past infection. Instead of seroclassification aimed at measuring seroprevalence a population sample of serum antibody levels may be used to estimate the incidence of seroconversion. This article expands an earlier study into seroincidence estimation, employing models of the seroresponse that include probability of escaping infection, as well as nonexponential decay kinetics and different sources of noise. As previously, a constant force of infection is assumed. When the seroconversion rate is low, a substantial fraction of the population may not be old enough to have experienced any seroconversions, causing underestimation of seroconversion rates that may be substantial at young ages. A correction is given that can be shown to remove such age dependent bias. Simulation studies show that the updated models provide accurate estimates of seroconversion rates, but also that the presence of noise, when unaccounted for, may introduce considerable bias, especially at low (< 0.1/yr) seroconversion rates and young ages. The revised serocalculator scripts can be used to update the R package “seroincidence.”
Dichroic Sb2O3/Ag/Sb2O3 Electrodes for Colorful Semitransparent Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Song Seyeong , Cho Hye Won , Jeong Jaeki , Yoon Yung Jin , Park Song Yi , Song Suhee , Woo Byung Hoon , Jun Young Chul , Walker Bright , Kim Jin Young
Published: June 2020

The pace of advancement and increasing power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) have provided the possibility for organic solar cells (OSCs) to be commercialized in a variety of applications, including semitransparent photovoltaics. The application of dielectric–metal–dielectric (DMD) transparent electrodes to OSCs is an effective way to achieve semitransparent OSCs with different colors. Herein, a DMD multilayer structure based on two Sb2O3 layers and silver (Ag) thin films as the top electrode is introduced. An ultrathin Sb2O3 layer is deposited between the electron transport layer and the Ag film as a bottom layer for the Sb2O3/Ag/Sb2O3 electrode; this layer inhibits Ag atom diffusion and aggregation, which leads to uniform formation of ultrathin Ag films. The thickness of the middle metal layer influences fill factor and short‐circuit current density values, which correlate well with device resistance and light reflection. For the top Sb2O3 layer, the thickness allows the selective transmittance of specific wavelengths of visible light while reflecting wavelengths that are not transmitted, creating a dichroic effect. OSCs are successfully fabricated using three kinds of colorful active layers in conjunction with Sb2O3/Ag/Sb2O3 electrodes, resulting in vividly colored devices with PCE of 6.33–7.88% and average visible transmittances of 23–30%.
Transport properties of surface layers from full‐scale reinforced concrete member
Authors: Ren Fangzhou , Li Liang , Wang Wei , Zhou Chunsheng
Published: June 2020

The durability performance of concrete structure is intimately related to the mass transport properties for the surface layers of concrete members. However, due to several effects, such as segregation, jamming effect and so on, the quality of the surface layer for reinforced member might be obviously different from their core material and material prepared and cured in the laboratory (labcrete). This study aims at understanding the mass transport properties of surface layers from reinforced concrete member, and clarifying the differences among them and those for accompanied labcrete. Specimens prepared from both a full‐scale reinforced beam and labcrete are subjected to experimental investigations on their gas permeability, capillary sorptivity, chloride diffusivity, and chloride migration coefficients. It is found that, for the same specimen, the gas permeability is approximately linear to capillary sorptivity. While the chloride diffusivity is smaller than the rapid migration coefficient. The durability potential of surface layers for the reinforced beam is inferior to that of the inner core material. While the latter is further obviously worse than that of labcrete. In engineering practice, special attention should be paid to ensure the quality of surface layer. When making quantification or prediction for the durability potential of concrete structure, it is more appropriate to use specimens from surface layers of field concrete members rather than those from labcrete.
Behavior and design of reinforced concrete frames retrofitted with steel bracing against progressive collapse
Authors: Yu Jun , Gan Yi‐Ping , Ji Jian
Published: June 2020

Steel bracing is able to improve progressive collapse resistance of reinforced concrete (RC) frames, but the bracing design is typically based on seismic retrofitting or lateral stability. There is no approach for design of steel bracing against progressive collapse. To this end, a retrofitting approach with steel braces is proposed based on analysis of macro finite element (FE) models with fiber beam elements. The FE models were initially validated through the experimental results of a braced frame and then used to investigate the effects of pertinent parameters on the progressive collapse resistance of planar frames. The results suggest the braces should be placed at the top story. Thereafter, macro FE models are built to investigate the dynamic responses of the three‐dimensional prototype RC frames under different column removal scenarios (CRS) and show the necessity of retrofitting. Accordingly, the design approach of steel bracing is proposed with incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) and assuming independent contribution of braces and frames to resistance. Finally, the fragility analysis of the frames under a corner‐penultimate‐exterior CRS is conducted through IDA and Monte Carlo simulation, and the results confirm the validity of the proposed design approach for retrofitting RC frames.
Explainable artificial intelligence and machine learning: A reality rooted perspective
Authors: Emmert‐Streib Frank , Yli‐Harja Olli , Dehmer Matthias
Published: June 2020

As a consequence of technological progress, nowadays, one is used to the availability of big data generated in nearly all fields of science. However, the analysis of such data possesses vast challenges. One of these challenges relates to the explainability of methods from artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning. Currently, many of such methods are nontransparent with respect to their working mechanism and for this reason are called black box models, most notably deep learning methods. However, it has been realized that this constitutes severe problems for a number of fields including the health sciences and criminal justice and arguments have been brought forward in favor of an explainable AI (XAI). In this paper, we do not assume the usual perspective presenting XAI as it should be, but rather provide a discussion what XAI can be. The difference is that we do not present wishful thinking but reality grounded properties in relation to a scientific theory beyond physics.

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Explainable AI

Algorithmic Development > Statistics

Technologies > Machine Learning
The continuum limit of quantum gravity at first order in perturbation theory
Authors: Mitchell Alex , Morris Tim R.
Published: June 2020

Abstract

The Wilsonian renormalization group (RG) properties of the conformal factor of the metric are profoundly altered by the fact that it has a wrong-sign kinetic term. The result is a novel perturbative continuum limit for quantum gravity, which is however non-perturbative in ħ. The ultraviolet part of the renormalized trajectory lies outside the diffeomorphism invariant subspace, entering this subspace only in the infrared, below a dynamically generated amplitude suppression scale. Interactions are dressed with coefficient functions of the conformal factor, their form being determined by the RG. In the ultraviolet, the coefficient functions are parametrised by an infinite number of underlying couplings. Choosing these couplings appropriately, the coefficient functions trivialise on entering the diffeomorphism invariant subspace. Here, dynamically generated effective diffeomorphism couplings emerge, including Newton’s constant. In terms of the Legendre effective action, we establish the continuum limit to first order, characterising the most general form of such coefficient functions so as to verify universality.
Entanglement entropy and its quench dynamics for pure states of the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model
Authors: Zhang Pengfei
Published: June 2020

Abstract

Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) is a concrete solvable model with non-Fermi liquid behavior and maximal chaos. In this work, we study the entanglement Rényi entropy for the subsystems of the SYK model in the Kourkoulou-Maldacena states. We use the path-integral approach and take the saddle point approximation in the large-N limit. We find a first-order transition exist when tuning the subsystem size for the q = 4 case, while it is absent for the q = 2 case. We further study the entanglement dynamics for such states under the real-time evolution for noninteracting, weakly interacting and strongly interacting SYK(-like) models.
Use of semiochemicals for surveillance and control of hematophagous insects
Authors: Mweresa Collins K. , Mukabana W. R. , van Loon J. J. A. , Dicke M. , Takken W.
Published: June 2020

Reliance on broad-spectrum insecticides and chemotherapeutic agents to control hematophagous insect vectors, and their related diseases is threatened by increasing insecticide and drug resistance, respectively. Thus, development of novel, alternative, complementary and effective technologies for surveillance and control of such insects is strongly encouraged. Semiochemicals are increasingly developed for monitoring and intervention of insect crop pests, but this has not been adequately addressed for hematophagous insects of medical and veterinary importance. This review provides an insight in the application of semiochemicals for control of hematophagous insects. Here, we provide specific information regarding the isolation and identification of semiochemical compounds, optimization approaches, detection, perception and discrimination by the insect olfactory system. Navigation of insects along wind-borne odor plumes is discussed and methods of odor application in field situations are reviewed. Finally, we discuss prospects and future challenges for the application of semiochemical-based tools with emphasis on mosquitoes. The acquired knowledge can guide development of more effective components of integrated vector management, safeguard against emerging resistance of insects to existing insecticides and reduce the burden of vector-borne diseases.
Molecular karyotyping and gene expression analysis in childhood cancer patients
Authors: Danuta Galetzka , Tobias Müller , Marcus Dittrich , Miriam Endres , Nergiz Kartal , Olesja Sinizyn , Steffen Rapp , Tanja Zeller , Christian Müller , Thomas Hankeln , Peter Scholz-Kreisel , Heather Chorzempa , Johanna Mirsch , Alicia Poplawski , Heidi Rossmann , Claudia Spix , Thomas Haaf , Dirk Prawitt , Manuela Marron , Heinz Schmidberger
Published: June 2020

The genetic etiology of sporadic childhood cancer cases remains unclear. We recruited a cohort of 20 patients who survived a childhood malignancy and then developed a second primary cancer (2N), and 20 carefully matched patients who survived a childhood cancer without developing a second malignancy (1N). Twenty matched cancer-free (0N) and additional 1000 (0N) GHS participants served as controls. Aiming to identify new candidate loci for cancer predisposition, we compared the genome-wide DNA copy number variations (CNV) with the RNA-expression data obtained after in vitro irradiation of primary fibroblasts. In 2N patients, we detected a total of 142 genes affected by CNV. A total of 53 genes of these were not altered in controls. Six genes (POLR3F, SEC23B, ZNF133, C16orf45, RRN3, and NTAN1) that we found to be overexpressed after irradiation were also duplicated in the genome of the 2N patients. For the 1N collective, 185 genes were affected by CNV and 38 of these genes were not altered in controls. Five genes (ZCWPW2, SYNCRIP, DHX30, DHRS4L2, and THSD1) were located in duplicated genomic regions and exhibited altered RNA expression after irradiation. One gene (ABCC6) was partially duplicated in one 1N and one 2N patient. Analysis of methylation levels of THSD1 and GSTT2 genes which were detected in duplicated regions and are frequently aberrantly methylated in cancer showed no changes in patient’s fibroblasts. In summary, we describe rare and radiation-sensitive genes affected by CNV in childhood sporadic cancer cases, which may have an impact on cancer development.

Key messages

• Rare CNV’s may have an impact on cancer development in sporadic, non-familial, non-syndromic childhood cancer cases.

• In our cohort, each patient displayed a unique pattern of cancer-related gene CNVs, and only few cases shared similar CNV.

• Genes that are transcriptionally regulated after radiation can be located in CNVs in cancer patients and controls.

• THSD1 and GSTT2 methylation is not altered by CNV.
Kostmann’s disease or severe hereditary neutropenia—the man behind the syndrome
Authors: Stenhammar Lars , Strömberg Leif , Ljunggren Carl Gustaf
Published: June 2020

Seventy years ago, the Swedish pediatrician Rolf Kostmann (1909–1982) was the first to report on a previous unknown lethal hereditary neutropenia in infants, Kostmann’s disease. This essay presents the man behind the syndrome rather than focusing on the disease itself.
The mean field Schrödinger problem: ergodic behavior, entropy estimates and functional inequalities
Authors: Backhoff Julio , Conforti Giovanni , Gentil Ivan , Léonard Christian
Published: June 2020

We study the mean field Schrödinger problem (MFSP), that is the problem of finding the most likely evolution of a cloud ofinteractingBrownian particles conditionally on the observation of their initial and final configuration. Its rigorous formulation is in terms of an optimization problem with marginal constraints whose objective function is the large deviation rate function associated with a system of weakly dependent Brownian particles. We undertake a fine study of the dynamics of its solutions, including quantitative energy dissipation estimates yielding the exponential convergence to equilibrium as the time between observations grows larger and larger, as well as a novel class of functional inequalities involving the mean field entropic cost (i.e. the optimal value in (MFSP)). Our strategy unveils an interesting connection between forward backward stochastic differential equations and the Riemannian calculus on the space of probability measures introduced by Otto, which is of independent interest.
Short- and long-term memory and age in a traditional tribe (Dani of Papua) and a modern population (Poland)
Authors: Sabiniewicz Agnieszka , Karwowski Maciej , Löckenhoff Corinna E. , Borkowska Barbara , Sorokowski Piotr
Published: June 2020

The different environmental conditions in which people live might challenge memory in different ways. Moreover, the frequency of usage can be a source of improvement of both short- and long-term memory. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of environmental differences on short- and long-term memory in a traditional versus a contemporary population (Dani of Papua,n = 62; Polish,n = 134). We found that both short- and long-term memory varied in the two populations, living in totally distinct surroundings. However, there were no age differences between Polish and Dani participants in either short- or long-term memory tasks, indicating that culture was not a significant moderator of the memory differences between populations. The differences in short- and long-term memory between the two populations are consistent with the argument that short-term memory plays a more significant role in contemporary societies because of technical developments, the electronic revolution, and reading ability. The lack of an age difference appears to support the assumption that it is age, not culture, that plays a crucial role in the memory performance.
Effects of size and position of openings on in-plane capacity of unreinforced masonry walls
Authors: Liu Zhen , Crewe Adam
Published: June 2020

In recent earthquakes, unreinforced masonry (URM) structures built of masonry walls containing openings such as doors and windows have been shown to have poor seismic capacity. However, although different sizes and positions of openings are known to reduce the stiffness and strength of URM walls, the relationships between the size and position of openings and seismic capacity of the walls are not clear. Therefore, a series of numerical analyses has, for the first time, explored many possible opening sizes and opening positions under simulated seismic loading to identify their impact on the in-plane behaviour of URM walls. The numerical models were built using the code “3DEC” which is based on the discrete element method (DEM). The key feature of the DEM is that it allows the development of large displacements between elements with contacts being recognized automatically during the analysis. Thus, this numerical method can capture the whole degradation progress from the initial cracking of the masonry walls right through to collapse, with the bricks being modelled as rigid blocks and the mortar as Coulomb-slip joints with zero thickness. Both load-based and displacement-based quasi-static pushover analysis procedures have been studied and the modelling methodology and the calibration of numerical models is described. The results from the analyses, the crack patterns and collapse mechanisms of the masonry walls are identified and discussed, and a key output from this work is the characterization of the relationships between the sizes and positions of openings and the in-plane performance of URM walls.
A Vertical Propeller Eddy-Covariance Method and Its Application to Long-term Monitoring of Surface Turbulent Fluxes on the Greenland Ice Sheet
Authors: van Tiggelen Maurice , Smeets Paul C. J. P. , Reijmer Carleen H. , van den Broeke Michiel R.
Published: June 2020

On the Greenland ice sheet, the sensible heat flux is the second largest source of energy for surface melt. Yet in atmospheric models, the surface turbulent heat fluxes are always indirectly estimated using a bulk turbulence parametrization, which needs to be constrained by long-term and continuous observations. Unfortunately, such observations are challenging to obtain in remote polar environments, especially over ablating ice surfaces. We therefore test a classical eddy-covariance method, based on propeller anemometers and thermocouple measurements, to estimate the momentum and sensible heat fluxes on the Greenland ice sheet. To correct for the high-frequency attenuation, we experimentally derive the sensor frequency-response characteristics and evaluate the universal turbulence spectra on the ice sheet. We show that the corrected fluxes are accurate and that the sampling interval can be reduced to 4 s to increase the system’s autonomy. To illustrate its potential, we apply the correction to one year of vertical propeller eddy-covariance measurements in the western ablation area of the ice sheet, and quantify the seasonal variability of the sensible heat flux and of the aerodynamic roughness length.