bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D and Other Differentiation‐promoting Agents as Neoadjuvants for Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Maytin Edward V. , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: February 2020

The efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using aminolevulinic acid (ALA), which is preferentially taken up by cancerous cells and converted to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), can be substantially improved by pretreating the tumor cells with vitamin D (Vit D). Vit D is one of several “differentiation‐promoting agents” that can promote the preferential accumulation of PpIX within the mitochondria of neoplastic cells, making them better targets for PDT. This article provides a historical overview of how the concept of using combination agents (“neoadjuvants”) for PDT evolved, from initial discoveries about neoadjuvant effects of methotrexate and fluorouracil to later studies to determine how vitamin D and other agents actually work to augment PDT efficacy. While this review focuses mainly on skin cancer, it includes a discussion about how these concepts may be applied more broadly toward improving PDT outcomes in other types of cancer.
Workforce Capacity in Municipal Government
Authors: Leon‐Moreta Agustin , Totaro Vittoria R.
Published: February 2020

The central aim of this article is to examine trends in the municipal government workforce in metropolitan (urban) areas. It explores, from a local public economies perspective, how the intergovernmental organization of municipalities influences their workforce capacities. The article situates the local labor market in state‐local systems and examines how local governments respond to fragmentation in a metropolitan area. The main finding is that the employment capacity of municipalities varies widely across metro areas, with local and intergovernmental factors affecting municipal workforces and labor expenditures. Local capacities and the state's labor framework appear to be influential in the level of government employment. Facing various challenges, municipalities adapt their workforce levels to changing conditions in urban areas. While its main contribution is to research on local government capacity, the article also draws from the intergovernmental literature to identify factors that influence the workforce capacity of municipal governments.
Soil pH influences patterns of plant community composition after restoration with native‐based seed mixes
Authors: Barlow Kathryn M. , Mortensen David A. , Drohan Patrick J.
Published: February 2020

Reclamation of highly disturbed lands typically includes establishing fast‐growing, non‐native plants to achieve rapid ground cover for erosion control. Establishing native plant communities could achieve ecosystem functions beyond soil erosion, such as providing wildlife habitat. Pipelines, or other disturbed corridors through a landscape, present unique challenges for establishing native plant communities given the heterogeneity of soil environments and invasive plant propagule pressure. We created two structural equation models to address multiple related hypotheses about the influence of soil pH on plant community composition (current diversity and vegetative cover of the original restoration seed mix and background flora, and invasive plant density during mix establishment and current density) of a highly disturbed landscape corridor restored with native species. To test our hypotheses we conducted a plant survey on a gas pipeline crossing two state forests in the north‐central Appalachians that had been seeded with a native‐based mixture 8 years prior. Low soil pH was a strong predictor of density of the invasive annual plant, Microstegium vimineum, and had resulted in lower species diversity and cover of the seeded mix. Overall, our data provide evidence that native‐based grass and forb mixtures can establish and persist on a wide range of soil environments and thrive in competition with invasive plants in moderately acidic to neutral soils. Advancing knowledge on restoration methods using native species is essential to improving restoration practice norms to incorporate multifunctional ecological goals.
Intentions to Seek Information About the Influenza Vaccine: The Role of Informational Subjective Norms, Anticipated and Experienced Affect, and Information Insufficiency Among Vaccinated and Unvaccinated People
Authors: Lu Hang ,   APPC 2018–2019 ASK Group, Winneg Kenneth , Jamieson Kathleen Hall , Albarracín Dolores
Published: February 2020

When deciding whether to vaccinate, people often seek information through consequential processes that are not currently well understood. A survey of a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults (N = 2,091) explored the factors associated with intentions to seek influenza vaccine information in the 2018–2019 influenza season. This survey shed light on what motivates intentions to seek information about the influenza vaccine through the lens of the risk information seeking and processing (RISP) model. The model explained information‐seeking intentions well among both unvaccinated and vaccinated respondents. Key findings show that informational subjective norms, information insufficiency, and different types of affect are strong predictors of information‐seeking intentions. Theoretical insights on extending the RISP model and practical guidance on designing interventions are provided.
Monitoring the sedimentary budget and dislocated boulders in western Greece – results since 2008
Authors: Hoffmeister Dirk , Curdt Constanze , Bareth Georg
Published: February 2020

Dislocated boulders are one sign of high‐energy wave impacts on coasts. These high‐energy impacts, caused by severe storms or tsunamis, can trigger initial cracking and transport of boulders. Monitoring of these boulders, as well as the associated coastal sites is important in distinguishing between gradual coastal processes and high‐energy events. Western Greece is a seismically active area, where tsunamis and high‐energetic storms might occur and such past events are documented by historic and geoscientific research, making it an ideal location for monitoring dislocated boulders. Since 2008, monitoring of eight different coastal sites in this region was conducted by terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetric approaches, with low‐cost unmanned aerial vehicles. The re‐use of similar surveying points in following years, allowed highly accurate monitoring. Point clouds derived from these methods were evaluated for change detection by point cloud comparisons. The data were also used to establish accurate three‐dimensional models of dislocated boulders (n = 70). The determined boulder volumes of these accurate three‐dimensional models were incorporated in wave transport equations and wave decay curves, and compared with monitoring results. A comprehensive overview of dislocated boulders in western Greece is presented. Three‐dimensional boulder reconstruction is compared to an approach which uses a tape‐based measuring of boulder axes, with the tape‐based measurement showing a mean overestimation of mass by 32%. Accurate monitoring over time by both methods, is achieved by using fixed networks of reference points. Changes for each site over time, detected by direct point cloud comparisons, are fit to the possible inundation calculated by wave decay curves based on computed minimum wave heights for boulder transport. Both storm and tsunami waves may have initiated movement from the cliff edge and further transport is also possible. However, boulders showed no further movement from their current position in the area for the time period of this study.
Training for success: Do simulated aerial landings replicate successful aerial landings performed in the ocean?
Authors: Forsyth James R. , Riddiford‐Harland Diane L. , Whitting John W. , Sheppard Jeremy M. , Steele Julie R.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Physical preparation of competitive surfers includes substantial dry‐land training. It is currently unknown, however, how closely these exercises replicate surfing maneuvers performed in the ocean. This study compared the technique features displayed by surfers when landing simulated aerial maneuvers on land to critical features previously established as necessary for surfers to successfully land aerials in the ocean during competition.

Methods

Fourteen competitive surfers (age 20.6 ± 5.7 years, height 178.1 ± 9.50 cm, mass 70.6 ± 10.8 kg) were recruited to perform two variations of a simulated aerial task, a Frontside Air (FA) and Frontside Air Reverse (FAR). Joint ranges of motion (ROM), center of pressure, and apparent gaze data were collected during the landing event. Paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests were used to identify any significant differences in the outcome variables between the two aerial tasks.

Results

Participants displayed 100% and 60% of the critical features associated with successfully landing a FA and FAR, respectively. In both the simulated FA and FAR, participants landed in 1.0‐3.7° of dorsiflexion, moving through significantly less ankle joint ROM in the lead limb during the FAR (P < .01). Participants also displayed significantly less knee and hip ROM (P = .002‐.048) while landing the FAR compared to the FA.

Conclusion

The simulated FA and FAR tasks are appropriate training tools for surfers to replicate most of the critical features that a surfer should display to successfully land aerial maneuvers in the ocean. These tasks therefore enable surfers to practice these complex movements in a controlled environment.
HLA‐DQB1*05:05:02, an HLA‐DQB1*05:05 variant, identified in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Li Chi‐Cheng , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: February 2020

One nucleotide substitution in codon 38 of HLA‐DQB1*05:05:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐DQB1*05:05:02.
Atopic dermatitis in a cohort of West Highland white terriers in Switzerland. Part II: estimates of early life factors and heritability
Authors: Rostaher Ana , Dolf Gaudenz , Fischer Nina Maria , Silaghi Cornelia , Akdis Cezmi , Zwickl Lena , Audergon Sabrina , Favrot Claude
Published: February 2020

Background

There is accumulating evidence in studies of allergic diseases in humans and dogs that environmental experiences during the first months of life can influence the development of allergic disease. No prospective study has evaluated this in veterinary medicine.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To assess early‐life risk factors for canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) and estimate its heritability.

Animals

A West Highland white terrier birth cohort (n = 107) followed up to three years of age recording the development of cAD.

Methods and materials

The effect of environmental factors [house dust mites (HDM), hygiene, feeding, lifestyle] and early‐life determinants [breeder, mode of delivery, birth season, sex, litter size, early‐life immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels] were assessed, using Stata SE 15.1 statistical analysis. Heritabilities were estimated using the R program packages MCMCglmm and QGglmm.

Results

Maternal allergic status [P = 0.013, odds ratio (OR 3.3)], male sex (P = 0.06), mode of delivery (P = 0.12), breeder (P = 0.06), presence of HDM (P = 0.11) and environmental hygiene level (P = 0.15) were identified as possible influence factors by bivariate analyses. In the multivariate analysis the male sex was significantly associated with the development of cAD in the offspring (P = 0.03, OR 2.4). The heritabilities on the observed scale were 0.31 (direct), 0.04 (maternal genetic effects) and 0.03 (maternal permanent environmental effects).

Conclusion and clinical importance

These results suggest that several environmental factors could influence the development of cAD but clearly demonstrate the genetic influence of the individual and the dam. Further studies are needed to identify specific environmental factors, which could be potential targets for primary disease intervention.
In vitro effects of lactated Ringer's solution, hypertonic saline, hydroxyethyl starch, hypertonic saline/hydroxyethyl starch, and mannitol on thromboelastographic variables of canine whole blood
Authors: Chan Adelina , Hughes Dez , Tennent‐Brown Brett S. , Boller Manuel
Published: February 2020

Objective

To assess the in vitro effects of crystalloid and colloid IV fluids on the thromboelastographic (TEG) variables of canine whole blood.

Design

In vitro experimental study.

Setting

Veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐two healthy dogs.

Intervention

Citrated whole blood samples collected from healthy dogs were diluted with 3.4% hypertonic saline (HTS 3.4), 7% hypertonic saline (HTS 7), and 20% mannitol at 8% and 16% dilutions; hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (HES 130/0.4) at 16% dilution; lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) at 16%, 33%, and 66% dilutions; and HTS 7‐HES 130/0.4 at 25% and 50% dilutions. Kaolin‐activated TEG analysis was concurrently performed on diluted and control (undiluted) samples.

Measurements and Main Results

Dilution of canine whole blood with LRS compared to control reduced α angle and MA at both 33% (P = 0.009 and P = 0.011, respectively) and 66% dilution (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively), and prolonged K time at 66% dilution (P = 0.003). At 16% dilution, HTS 3.4, prolonged R time (P = 0.007), while mannitol, a fluid iso osmolar to HTS 3.4, prolonged K time (P = 0.006), reduced α angle (P < 0.001), MA (P = 0.046), and LY60 (P = 0.015). At 8% dilution, HTS 7, a fluid of high osmolarity and tonicity, prolonged R time (P = 0.009) and reduced MA (P = 0.015), while all measured TEG variables were altered at the 16% dilution (P < 0.01 for all variables). HES 130/0.4 reduced α angle (P = 0.031) and MA (P = 0.001) and increased LY60 (P < 0.001) at 16% dilution. Comparing different fluid types, HES 130/0.4 and HTS 3.4 had no to minor, mannitol intermediate, and HTS 7 profound effects on TEG variables (P < 0.05) when compared to LRS at the same dilution.

Conclusions

In vitro dilution of canine whole blood with commonly used IV fluids leads to thromboelastographic changes consistent with hypocoagulability in a dose dependent manner for all fluid types tested. Viscoelastic changes are also influenced by fluid characteristics, specifically tonicity and osmolarity.
Systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure in two cats
Authors: Nix Colette E. , Lee Justine A. , Wismer Tina
Published: February 2020

Objective

To describe a case series of systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to topical administration in 2 cats.

Case Summary

Two cats from the same household that were being previously treated for Microsporum canis were presented following topical administration of an incorrectly diluted lime sulfur dip. A 30% solution was used rather than the recommended 3% solution, resulting in a 10‐fold concentration overdose. The cats presented to the emergency service 1 hour after dermal application of the lime sulfur product at home. The first cat, a 2‐year‐old female, intact Cornish Rex, had severe hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia. Chemical burns were also present on the ventrum and paws. Clinicopathological data revealed profound acid–base disturbances, hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and azotemia. After aggressive fluid resuscitation, electrolyte supplementation, and treatment, the patient was stabilized and discharged after 5 days of hospitalization; full recovery was later reported. The second littermate, also a 2‐year‐old female, intact Cornish Rex, presented the following day with similar clinical signs, physical examination findings, and clinicopathological findings. After supportive care and 2 days of hospitalization, the patient was also discharged and reported to fully recover.

New or Unique Information Provided

This case series is the first to report systemic toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure of lime sulfur. As lime sulfur is commonly used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of ectoparasites, veterinary professionals should be aware of the significant signs of poisoning that can be seen as a result of iatrogenic dosing errors by pet owners or veterinary professionals.
ANTISTRUCTURE AND THE ROOTS OF RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE
Authors: Wood Connor
Published: February 2020

The cognitive and evolutionary sciences of religion offer a standard model of religious representations, but no equivalent paradigm for investigating religiously interpreted altered states of consciousness (religious ASCs). Here, I describe a neo‐Durkheimian framework for studying religious ASCs that centralizes social predictive cognition. Within a processual model of ritual, ritual behaviors toggle between reinforcing normative social structures and downplaying them. Specifically, antistructural ritual shifts cognitive focus away from conventional affordances, collective intentionality, and social prediction, and toward physical affordances and behavioral motivations that make few references to others’ intentional states. Using synchrony and dance as paradigmatic examples of antistructural ritual that stimulate religious ASCs, I assemble literature from anthropology, cognitive neuroscience, and philosophy of language to offer fruitful empirical predictions and opportunities for testing based on this framework. Among the empirical predictions is that antistructural ritual may provide for cultural change in religions when religions are construed as complex adaptive systems.
CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND SUGGESTIONS FOR A RENEWED PROGRAM IN THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION
Authors: Oviedo Lluís
Published: February 2020

This is an introduction to the Symposium on “The New Scientific Study of Religion Moving On.” The introduction briefly indicates why the cognitive science of religion (CSR) needs re‐evaluation. It subsequently gives an overview of the contributions of the symposium's articles.
A CULTURAL EVOLUTIONARY APPROACH TO MODERNITY: WHAT MIGHT IT MEAN FOR CHRISTIAN FAITH?
Authors: Patterson Colin
Published: February 2020

This essay introduces, for theological consideration, some recent work in the field of cultural evolutionary theory, specifically the kin‐influence hypothesis. This theory holds that, following the beginnings of industrialization and economic growth, a nation's fertility rate commences a decline, which is further abetted by the consequent and increasing imbalance in the relative influence of kin versus nonkin influences on individuals in favor of the latter. It is further proposed that this process is itself a major independent factor in the emergence of many of the features of what is called modernity, among which is that of secularization. Extending further this work, I argue that, given the historic alignment of family and religious values in Christian nations, a loss of religious belief and practice is, at least in part, the spill over effect of the opposing influence of values emerging from ever more dominant nonfamily social interaction. I conclude with some reflections on possible theological implications.
THE CONCEPT OF CONTINUOUS CREATION PART I: HISTORY AND CONTEMPORARY USE
Authors: Revol Fabien
Published: February 2020

The concept of continuous creation is now widely used in the context of reflections on the dialogue between science and religion. The first part of this research work seeks to understand its meaning through a twofold elaboration: (1) the historical setting of the three philosophical trends in which this concept was developed: scholastic (conservation), Cartesian (conservation through repetition of the creative act at each instant), and dynamic (interpreting the emergence of radical and contingent novelty in nature as a sign of the continuity of creation); (2) a philosophical and theological critique of the concept of continuous creation regarding the question of the relationship between change and creation, in the light of its highly polymorphous contemporary use, and, in opposition, its absence within the Catholic Magisterium. This work opens the field a further step toward reflection on a renewed concept of continuous creation.
THE CONCEPT OF CONTINUOUS CREATION PART II: CONTINUOUS CREATION: TOWARD A RENEWED AND ACTUALIZED CONCEPT
Authors: Revol Fabien
Published: February 2020

The renewal of the concept of continuous creation follows two steps: (1) an establishment of the concept of novelty in an exercise of philosophy of nature, as a means of interpreting the scientific discourse concerning the evolution of life; (2) starting out from philosophical and theological critiques and from the concept of novelty, this work proposes a reformulation of the concept of continuous creation in its dynamic perspective. If the universe of possibilities of creation proceeds from the Divine Word by the will of the Father, as the first timelessex nihilocreative moment, the Holy Spirit allows, in a second creative moment, the universe of possibilities to proceed continuously through a creative partnership in which all creatures are involved. Created novelty is the expression of a procession of one possibility among others, which has been selected by creatures during the evolutionary process, due to the interdependence of constitutive interactions and the propensities in which creatures are situated.
Revealing Three-Dimensional Morphology in Nanoporous Gold Using Three-Dimensional X-Ray Fresnel Coherent Diffractive Imaging Tomography
Authors: Chen-Wiegart Yu-Chen Karen , Kim SangSoo , Vine David , Xiao Xianghui , Zhao Chonghang , Pfeifer Mark A. , Williams Garth J. , McNulty Ian
Published: February 2020

Nanoporous metals fabricated by dealloying have a unique bi-continuous, sponge-like porous structure with ultra-high surface area. The unique properties of these materials, especially nanoporous gold, have numerous potential applications in sensors and actuators and in energy-related applications such as catalytic materials, super-capacitors, and battery supports. The degree of porosity and size of the metal ligaments are critical parameters that determine many properties and thus govern the functionalities of nanoporous metals in many applications including energy storage and conversion. We used Fresnel coherent diffractive imaging combined with tomographic reconstruction to quantify the nanoscale three-dimensional spatial distribution and homogeneity of the porosity and ligament size within a bulk sample of nanoporous gold. The average porosity and its standard deviation along the axial direction through the sample were determined, as well as the characteristic feature size and its standard deviation. The result shows that free corrosion is an effective way to create homogeneous nanoporous metals with sample sizes on the order of 1 µm.
Dual Roles of MoO3 Thin Film in Improving the Performance of Copper Bismuth Oxide Photocathode for Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Li Jiangtian , Chu Deryn
Published: February 2020

Promoting the hole extraction from the photocathode semiconductor is crucial to not only enhance the charge separation and suppress the charge recombination but also to protect the oxidation of the photocathode semiconductor by the photogenerated holes. Here, we use a very thin MoO3 film as a hole buffer layer between conductive substrate fluorine-doped tin oxide and the p-type semiconductor CuBi2O4. Through comprehensive photoelectrochemical characterizations, we find that the insertion of a hole buffer layer MoO3 not only accelerates the hole traction from the CuBi2O4 photocathode but also blocks the backward transfer of photogenerated electrons. This optimized charge transfer behavior contributes to the improved photoelectrochemical performance. Based on our results, some interesting designs on CuBi2O4 photocathode are given at the end that will be potentially working as effective photocathodes.
Physically Based Modeling of PEMFC Cathode Catalyst Layers: Effective Microstructure and Ionomer Structure–Property Relationship Impacts
Authors: Randall Corey R. , DeCaluwe Steven C.
Published: February 2020

This work presents a pseudo-two-dimensional proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) model incorporating Nafion ionomer structure–property relationships in the cathode catalyst layer (CL) to capture and explain losses at low Pt loading. Structural data from neutron reflectometry and thin film Nafion conductivity measurements predict variations in the oxygen diffusion coefficient and ionic conductivity with changing CL ionomer thickness and Pt loading. By including these structure–property relationships, predicted polarization curves agree closely with previously published experimental data from cells with Pt loadings between 0.025 and 0.2 mg/cm2. Results demonstrate that structure–property relationships based on physically measurable ionomer and CL properties provide a feasible interpretation of PEMFC CL phenomena for a range of Pt loadings and help explain previously unaccounted-for losses at low Pt. Results also show that simulations must account for surface species coverage variations in order to properly capture the kinetic losses. Finally, results suggest that an increase in ionomer thickness surrounding the C/Pt surfaces may lead to improved cell performance due to improved ionic conductivity.
Uncertainty Propagation Analyses of Lean Burn Combustor Exit Conditions for a Robust Nozzle Cooling Design
Authors: Schneider Marius , Schiffer Heinz-Peter , Lehmann Knut
Published: February 2020

Knowing the flow conditions at the combustor turbine interface is a key asset for an efficient cooling design of high-pressure turbines. However, measurements and numerical predictions of combustor exit conditions are challenging due to the extreme temperatures and complex flow patterns in modern combustors. Even the time-averaged flow fields at the combustor exit which are commonly used as inlet condition for simulations of the turbine are therefore subject to uncertainty. The goal of this paper is to illustrate how aleatory uncertainties in the magnitude and position of residual swirl and hot spots at the combustor exit affect uncertainties in the prediction of cooling and heat load of the first nozzle guide vane. Also, it is identified which of these uncertain parameters have the greatest impact. An iso-thermal test rig and an engine realistic setup with lean burn inflow conditions are investigated. The analysis combines a parameterized model for combustor exit flow fields with uncertainty quantification methods. It is shown that the clocking position of turbine inlet swirl has a large effect on the formation of secondary flows on the vane surface and thus affects the uncertainty of thermal predictions on the hub and vanes.
Practical guide for inelastic mean free paths, effective attenuation lengths, mean escape depths, and information depths in x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Powell Cedric J.
Published: February 2020

Information is provided on four terms that are used for different purposes in x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS): the inelastic mean free path (IMFP), the effective attenuation length (EAL), the mean escape depth (MED), and the information depth (ID). While the IMFP is a parameter that depends on both the material and electron energy, the other three terms depend on the IMFP, the instrumental configuration, and the magnitude of elastic-scattering effects in the sample material. In addition, different EALs can be defined for different XPS applications, and the numerical values for each application can differ. Guidance is given on sources of IMFP and EAL data and on predictive equations for IMFPs, EALs, MEDs, and IDs. This guide is one of a series intended to highlight best practices in the use of XPS.
Untold secrets of the slowly charging capacitor
Authors: Milsom John A.
Published: February 2020

The slowly charging capacitor is the standard example used to illustrate that the displacement current density is needed in Ampere's law if we want to correctly determine the magnetic field between capacitor plates. However, in any quasi-static situation the magnetic field can also be determined using the Biot-Savart law including only the real current densities. In this work, we will numerically calculate the magnetic field due to the surface currents on the capacitor plates and add it to the magnetic field due to the charging wire and show how they combine to create the correct magnetic field thoughout all space. For regions to the left or right of the capacitor, we find the surprising result that the surface currents replicate the magnetic field that would have been created by the missing section of the charging wire between the plates. For points between the capacitor plates, the magnetic field due to the surface currents mostly cancels the magnetic field from the near-infinite length charging wire, resulting in the well-known reduced field in that interior region. We will also illustrate the impact of finite capacitor plates on these results and briefly comment on how textbook and/or classroom discussions could be improved by carefully discussing these details.
Cavitation inception pressure and bubble cloud formation due to the backscattering of high-intensity focused ultrasound from a laser-induced bubble
Authors: Horiba Taisei , Ogasawara Toshiyuki , Takahira Hiroyuki
Published: February 2020

Cavitation bubble cloud formation due to the backscattering of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) from a laser-induced bubble in various water temperatures and dissolved oxygen (DO) has been investigated. A laser-induced bubble generated near the geometrical focus of HIFU is utilized to yield intense negative pressure by the backscattering. Optical observation with a high-speed video camera and pressure measurement with a fiber-optic probe hydrophone are conducted simultaneously to understand the forming process of a bubble cloud and corresponding pressure field by the backscattering. Optical observation shows that a bubble cloud grows stepwise forming multiple layers composed of tiny cavitation bubbles, and the cavitation inception position is consistent with the local minimum pressure position simulated with the ghost fluid method. The bubble cloud grows larger in the opposite direction of HIFU propagation, and the absolute value of the cavitation inception pressure decreases with an increase in water temperature. The linear correlation between cavitation inception pressure and water temperature agrees with that given by Vlaisavljevich, Xu, Maxwell, Mancia, Zhang, Lin, Duryea, Sukovich, Hall, Johnsen, and Cain [IEEE Trans. Ultrason. Ferroelectr. Freq. Control 63, 1064–1077 (2016)]. However DO has minor dependence on the cavitation inception pressure when DO is degassed sufficiently. Furthermore, the gas nucleus size that might exist in the experiment has been estimated by using bubble dynamics.
Transient invaders can induce shifts between alternative stable states of microbial communities
Authors: Amor Daniel R. , Ratzke Christoph , Gore Jeff
Published: February 2020

Transient invaders can cause lasting shifts in community composition and function.
Surface reservoirs dominate dynamic gas-surface partitioning of many indoor air constituents
Authors: Wang Chen , Collins Douglas B. , Arata Caleb , Goldstein Allen H. , Mattila James M. , Farmer Delphine K. , Ampollini Laura , DeCarlo Peter F. , Novoselac Atila , Vance Marina E. , Nazaroff William W. , Abbatt Jonathan P. D.
Published: February 2020

Large and labile surface reservoirs control air mixing ratios of many indoor species.
Sustained IFN-I stimulation impairs MAIT cell responses to bacteria by inducing IL-10 during chronic HIV-1 infection
Authors: Tang X. , Zhang S. , Peng Q. , Ling L. , Shi H. , Liu Y. , Cheng L. , Xu L. , Cheng L. , Chakrabarti L. A. , Chen Z. , Wang H. , Zhang Z.
Published: February 2020

Sustained IFN-I dampens the antibacterial activity of MAIT cells by inducing IL-10 production during chronic HIV-1 infection.
Promoting biosecurity by professionalizing biosecurity
Authors: Moritz Rebecca L. , Berger Kavita M. , Owen Barbara R. , Gillum David R.
Published: February 2020

A credential system could improve policy and practice
Toward a universal flu vaccine
Authors: Herold Susanne , Sander Leif-Erik
Published: February 2020

A vaccine adjuvant elicits broad protection against influenza in animals
A time to grow and a time to pause
Authors: Van Gilst Marc
Published: February 2020

Mechanisms of programmed arrest protect animals from the passage of time
Cross-modal sensory transfer: Bumble bees do it
Authors: von der Emde Gerhard , de Perera Theresa Burt
Published: February 2020

Stored sensory input permits two sensory channels to exchange and compare information
Long noncoding RNA
SNHG12
integrates a DNA-PK–mediated DNA damage response and vascular senescence
Authors: Haemmig Stefan , Yang Dafeng , Sun Xinghui , Das Debapria , Ghaffari Siavash , Molinaro Roberto , Chen Lei , Deng Yihuan , Freeman Dan , Moullan Norman , Tesmenitsky Yevgenia , Wara A.K.M. Khyrul , Simion Viorel , Shvartz Eugenia , Lee James F. , Yang Tianlun , Sukova Galina , Marto Jarrod A. , Stone Peter H. , Lee Warren L. , Auwerx Johan , Libby Peter , Feinberg Mark W.
Published: February 2020

Deficiency of lncRNA
SNHG12
impairs DNA damage repair in the vessel wall and predisposes to vascular senescence and atherosclerosis.
How to reverse acetyl-aging
Authors: Gallagher Emily J.
Published: February 2020

SIRT2 deacetylation of NLRP3 reduces inflammation and reverses age-related glucose dysregulation.
Microbiome goes to the ICU
Authors: Sengupta Shaon
Published: February 2020

Lung microbiota predicts outcomes in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients.
Inhibition of Ammonia Monooxygenase from Ammonia-Oxidizing Archaea by Linear and Aromatic Alkynes
Authors: Wright Chloë L. , Schatteman Arne , Crombie Andrew T. , Murrell J. Colin , Lehtovirta-Morley Laura E.
Published: February 2020

Archaeal and bacterial ammonia oxidizers (AOA and AOB, respectively) initiate nitrification by oxidizing ammonia to hydroxylamine, a reaction catalyzed by ammonia monooxygenase (AMO). AMO enzyme is difficult to purify in its active form, and its structure and biochemistry remain largely unexplored. The bacterial AMO and the closely related particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO) have a broad range of hydrocarbon cooxidation substrates. This study provides insights into the AMO of previously unstudied archaeal genera, by comparing the response of the archaeal AMO, a bacterial AMO, and pMMO to inhibition by linear 1-alkynes and the aromatic alkyne, phenylacetylene. Reduced sensitivity to inhibition by larger alkynes suggests that the archaeal AMO has a narrower hydrocarbon substrate range than the bacterial AMO, as previously reported for other genera of AOA. Phenylacetylene inhibited the archaeal and bacterial AMOs at different thresholds and by different mechanisms of inhibition, highlighting structural differences between the two forms of monooxygenase.
Mild Stress Conditions during Laboratory Culture Promote the Proliferation of Mutations That Negatively Affect Sigma B Activity in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Guerreiro Duarte N. , Wu Jialun , Dessaux Charlotte , Oliveira Ana H. , Tiensuu Teresa , Gudynaite Diana , Marinho Catarina M. , Boyd Aoife , García-del Portillo Francisco , Johansson Jörgen , O’Byrne Conor P.
Published: February 2020

In the present study, we investigated a collection of
Listeria monocytogenes
strains that all carried
sigB
operon mutations. The mutants all had reduced σ
B
activity and were found to have a growth advantage under conditions of mild heat stress (42°C). In mixed cultures, these mutants outcompeted the wild type when mild heat stress was present but not at an optimal growth temperature. An analysis of 22,340 published
L. monocytogenes
genome sequences found a high rate of premature stop codons present in genes positively regulating σ
B
activity. Together, these findings suggest that the occurrence of mutations that attenuate σ
B
activity can be favored under conditions of mild stress, probably highlighting the burden on cellular resources that stems from deploying the general stress response.
Left ventricular rupture: a rare complication and an unusual presentation
Authors: Mathew Antony , Berry Eleanor , Tirou Malini , Kumar Pankaj
Published: February 2020

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a relatively common medical condition in the community. A rare complication of acute MI is left ventricular rupture (LV) rupture. This usually follows a transmural infarct. The incidence of this is 2%–4% and this usually happens within 3–7 days of MI. The anterolateral wall is involved in the majority of cases. Atypical presentations can occur several weeks after the initial event. Symptoms may mimic gastrointestinal disorder. The prognosis of this condition is very grim. However, with appropriate treatment, they can make an excellent recovery. The definitive treatment for this is surgical repair. We present the case of a 70-year-old man who had LV rupture and his clinical journey.
Winged scapula following axillary thoracotomy with long thoracic nerve preservation
Authors: Isono Tomomi , Mori Shigeshi , Kusumoto Hidenori , Shiono Hiroyuki
Published: February 2020

Winged scapula is a rare condition caused by injuries to the long thoracic nerve (LTN) and accessory nerves. A 69-year-old man underwent surgery for right lung cancer. Video-assisted thoracic surgery was converted to axillary thoracotomy at the fourth intercostal space. The latissimus dorsi was protected, and the serratus anterior was divided on the side anterior to the LTN. Two months after discharge, he presented with difficulty in elevating his right arm and protrusion of the scapula from his back. Active forward flexion of the right shoulder was limited to 110° and abduction to 130°. He was diagnosed with winged scapula. After 6 months of occupational therapy, the symptoms improved. The LTN may have been overstretched or damaged by the electric scalpel. We recommend an increased awareness of the LTN, and to divide the serratus anterior at a site as far as possible from the LTN to avoid postoperative winged scapula.
Early NIV is associated with accelerated lung function decline in Duchenne muscular dystrophy treated with glucocorticosteroids
Authors: Angliss Megan E , Sclip Kiara D , Gauld Leanne
Published: February 2020

Background

Use of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in adolescents with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has increased with concomitant extended survival.

Aim

To describe lung function (LF) changes with NIV in adolescents with DMD and to assess differences betweenSteroid UsersandSteroid Naïvesubjects.

Method

A retrospective cohort of adolescents with DMD initiating NIV over 10 years was conducted. Serial LF before and after NIV initiation was collated. Use of systemic glucocorticosteroids, adherence to NIV and presence of cardiac disease were assessed.

Results

Twenty-nine men started NIV, median age 14.66 years (IQR 2.35, 10.47–17.96). Nine wereSteroid Usersand eight wereSteroid Naïve. Indications for NIV were apnoea–hypopnoea index >5 and/or nocturnal hypoventilation. LF is better (forced vital capacity (FVC) z-score −3.26 vs −5.41, p < 0.02) and decline slower (FVC z-score −0.58 per annum (pa) vs −0.68 pa, p<0.001) inSteroid Userscompared withSteroid Naïvesubjects. Following NIV initiation, FVC z-score decline slowed for the whole (−0.72 pa (95% CI −0.79 to 0.64) to −0.46 pa (95% CI −0.54 to 0.38) p < 0.001) andSteroid Naïvegroups (−0.74 (95% CI −0.85 to 0.63) to −0.44 pa (95% CI −0.56 to 0.32) p < 0.001) but accelerated in theSteroid Usergroup (−0.56 (95% CI −0.70 to 0.42) to −0.75 pa (95% CI −0.89 to 0.61) p < 0.001). Adherence to NIV and cardiac disease did not impact decline.

Conclusion

Overall, LF decline is reduced on NIV.Steroid Naïvepatients have lower LF and faster decline, which slows following NIV initiation. An accelerated LF decline was seen on NIV inSteroid Userswhich requires further prospective research.
Trans-right ventricle and transpulmonary metabolite gradients in human pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Chouvarine Philippe , Giera Martin , Kastenmüller Gabi , Artati Anna , Adamski Jerzy , Bertram Harald , Hansmann Georg
Published: February 2020

Objective

While metabolic dysfunction occurs in several pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) animal models, its role in the human hypertensive right ventricle (RV) and lung is not well characterised. We investigated whether circulating metabolite concentrations differ across the hypertensive RV and/or the pulmonary circulation, and correlate with invasive haemodynamic/echocardiographic variables in patients with PAH.

Methods

Prospective EDTA blood collection during cardiac catheterisation from the superior vena cava (SVC), pulmonary artery (PA) and ascending aorta (AAO) in children with PAH (no shunt) and non-PAH controls (Con), followed by unbiased screens of 427 metabolites and 836 lipid species and fatty acids (FAs) in blood plasma (Metabolon and Lipidyzer platforms). Metabolite concentrations were correlated with echocardiographic and invasive haemodynamic variables.

Results

Metabolomics/lipidomics analysis of differential concentrations (false discovery rate<0.15) revealed several metabolite gradients in the trans-RV (PA vs SVC) setting. Notably, dicarboxylic acids (eg, octadecanedioate: fold change (FC)_Control=0.77, FC_PAH=1.09, p value=0.044) and acylcarnitines (eg, stearoylcarnitine: FC_Control=0.74, FC_PAH=1.21, p value=0.058). Differentially regulated metabolites were also found in the transpulmonary (AAO vs PA) setting and between-group comparisons, that is, in the SVC (PAH-SVC vs Con-SVC), PA and AAO. Importantly, the differential PAH-metabolite concentrations correlated with numerous outcome-relevant variables (e.g., tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, pulmonary vascular resistance).

Conclusions

In PAH, trans-RV and transpulmonary metabolite gradients exist and correlate with haemodynamic determinants of clinical outcome. The most pronounced differential trans-RV gradients are known to be involved in lipid metabolism/lipotoxicity, that is, accumulation of long chain FAs. The identified accumulation of dicarboxylic acids and acylcarnitines likely indicates impaired β-oxidation in the hypertensive RV and represents emerging biomarkers and therapeutic targets in PAH.
Association between retirement and mortality: working longer, living longer? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sewdas Ranu , de Wind Astrid , Stenholm Sari , Coenen Pieter , Louwerse Ilse , Boot Cécile , van der Beek Allard
Published: February 2020

Aim

This study summarised available evidence on the association between early and on-time retirement, compared with continued working, and mortality. Moreover, this study investigated whether and to what extent gender, adjustment for demographics and prior health status influence this association.

Methods

A systematic literature search of longitudinal studies was conducted. A qualitative analysis of the included studies was performed, followed by a meta-regression analysis to assess the influence of gender, prior health and demographics. Random-effects models were used in a meta-analysis to estimate the pooled effects for relevant subgroups identified in the meta-regression.

Results

In total, 25 studies were included. Adjustment for prior health and demographics influenced the association between retirement and mortality (p<0.05). The results of the meta-analysis of 12 studies are presented for ‘insufficiently adjusted’ and ‘fully adjusted’ subgroups. There was no association between early retirement and mortality compared with working until retirement (fully adjusted subgroup: HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.28). On-time retirement was associated with a higher risk of mortality compared with working beyond retirement (insufficiently adjusted subgroup: HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.41 to 1.73). However, in the subgroup that adjusted for prior health, on-time retirement was not associated with mortality (HR 1.12, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.28).

Conclusion

Early retirement was not associated with a higher risk of mortality. On-time retirement was associated with a higher risk of mortality, which might reflect the healthy worker effect. It is important to consider information on prior health and demographics when studying the association between retirement and mortality to avoid biased findings.
Differential response to pallidal deep brain stimulation among monogenic dystonias: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Artusi Carlo Alberto , Dwivedi Alok , Romagnolo Alberto , Bortolani Sara , Marsili Luca , Imbalzano Gabriele , Sturchio Andrea , Keeling Elizabeth G , Zibetti Maurizio , Contarino Maria Fiorella , Fasano Alfonso , Tagliati Michele , Okun M S , Espay Alberto J , Lopiano Leonardo , Merola Aristide
Published: February 2020

Objective

Genetic subtypes of dystonia may respond differentially to deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus pars interna (GPi DBS). We sought to compare GPi DBS outcomes among the most common monogenic dystonias.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. We searched PubMed for studies on genetically confirmed monogenic dystonia treated with GPi DBS documenting pre-surgical and post-surgical assessments using the Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale Motor Score (BFMMS) and Burke–Fahn–Marsden Disability Score (BFMDS). We performed (i) meta-analysis for each gene mutation; (ii) weighted ordinary linear regression analyses to compare BFMMS and BFMDS outcomes between DYT-TOR1A and other monogenic dystonias, adjusting for age and disease duration and (iii) weighted linear regression analysis to estimate the effect of age, sex and disease duration on GPi DBS outcomes. Results were summarised with mean change and 95% CI.

Results

DYT-TOR1A (68%, 38.4 points; p<0.001), DYT-THAP1 (37% 14.5 points; p<0.001) and NBIA/DYT-PANK2 (27%, 21.4 points; p<0.001) improved in BFMMS; only DYT-TOR1A improved in BFMDS (69%, 9.7 points; p<0.001). Improvement in DYT-TOR1A was significantly greater than in DYT-THAP1 (BFMMS −31%), NBIA/DYT-PANK2 (BFMMS −35%; BFMDS −53%) and CHOR/DYT-ADCY5 (BFMMS −36%; BFMDS −42%). Worse motor outcomes were associated with longer dystonia duration and older age at dystonia onset in DYT-TOR1A, longer dystonia duration in DYT/PARK-TAF1 and younger age at dystonia onset in DYT-SGCE.

Conclusions

GPi DBS outcomes vary across monogenic dystonias. These data serve to inform patient selection and prognostic counselling.