bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perovskite Nanocrystals‐Based Heterostructures: Synthesis Strategies, Interfacial Effects, and Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Yuan Chaowei , He Ye , Chen Ruimin , Sun Yanjuan , Li Jieyuan , Cui Wen , Chen Peng , Sheng Jianping , Dong Fan
Published: September 2020

Perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) have recently emerged as a new type of promising photocatalytic semiconductor due to their unique photoelectrochemical properties, including tunable bandgap and crystal structure, entire visible spectral response, and versatile chemical processability. However, under practical circumstance, this type of pure‐phase PNCs photocatalyst demonstrates poor stability, limited light utilization, and high carrier recombination, resulting in low solar power conversion efficiency and inferior catalytic activity. To address these issues, extensive research efforts have been devoted to developing PNCs‐based heterostructures. Thus, a perspective on the development of PNCs‐based heterophotocatalysts is timely. In this Review, the progress of PNCs‐based heterophotocatalysts is presented starting from fundamental properties (i.e., crystal and bandgap structure, photoelectronic properties, etc.) to state‐of‐the‐art applications with a focus on stability improving, dispersion enhancing, and interfacial charge carrier dynamic optimizing. Critical insights are further provided into the existing challenges and prospects for high‐quality PNCs‐based heterostructures in advanced photocatalytic applications.
Controlled Synthesis of Higher Interfacial Electron Transfer Graphite‐Like Carbon Nitride/Perylenetetracarboxylic Diimide Heterogeneous for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Miao Hong , Yang Jun , Sheng Yuqiang , Li Wenlu , Zhu Yongfa
Published: September 2020

To exploit the noble‐metal‐free, highly efficient and broad‐spectrum responsive photocatalyst of perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (PDI), a self‐assembled PDI nanowire is loaded on the surface of a graphite‐like carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) nanosheet and forms an all‐organic supramolecular 1D/2D heterogeneous g‐C3N4/PDI with broad‐spectrum responsiveness (254–700 nm), which can improve the absorption efficiency of solar energy. In the g‐C3N4/PDI system, the π–π conjugated bond in the g‐C3N4/PDI can accelerate the photoinduced charge carrier transfer. On the other hand, the interlaced band structure between the g‐C3N4 and PDI and the Z‐scheme pathway of the carriers leads to the spatial separation of redox reaction sites. Therefore, the g‐C3N4/PDI photocatalyst reaches strong redox ability in the photocatalytic process. In detail, the photocatalytic phenol degradation of g‐C3N4/PDI (0.837 h−1) is enhanced 2.67 and 9.19 times higher as the pure PDI and g‐C3N4, respectively, under the full spectra. Meanwhile, the H2 evolution activity of the g‐C3N4/PDI (1649.93 μmol g−1 h−1) is 2.03 times higher than g‐C3N4 nanosheet (814.03 μmol g−1 h−1).
Correlations between Initial Goss Orientations with Different Deviation Angles and Evolution of Microstructure and Texture in Ultrathin Grain‐Oriented Silicon Steels
Authors: Wang Yin-Ping , Song Hong-Yu , An Ling-Zi , Wang Guo-Dong , Liu Hai-Tao
Published: September 2020

Herein, four kinds of initial Goss textures with different deviation angles (0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°) are obtained by controlling the included angles between the longitudinal directions of rectangular cutting specimens and the initial rolling direction of the raw material. Then, 0.05 mm thick grain‐oriented silicon steels are fabricated by cold rolling and primary recrystallization annealing. Effects of initial textures on the microstructure and texture evolutions and magnetic properties are investigated in detail. Compared with sharp {111}<112> in the cold rolling sheet with initial exact Goss, the deviated Goss favors the formation of strong {111}<112> + weak {h11}<1/h 1 2> textures. After annealing, sharp {210}<001> + medium {110}<001> textures develop as a result of the small initial deviation, while larger initial deviations contribute to the {310}<001> texture. In addition, the average grain sizes are also related to recrystallization textures. Consequently, the distinct recrystallization microstructures and textures result in the differences of magnetic properties.
Luxury rental purchase intention among millennials—A cross‐national study
Authors: Mishra Sita , Jain Sheetal , Jham Vimi
Published: September 2020

In the last few years, a radical shift has been observed in luxury consumption behavior, particularly in millennials who are increasingly inclined toward sustainability. There has been a tremendous rise in demand for services providing a non‐ownership model of consumption. However, hardly any study has focused on exploring the consumption behavior of the millennials for luxury fashion goods in the context of sharing economy. Hence, this research aims to examine the key drivers that affect millennials attitude and purchase intention of luxury fashion on rent. Data were collected via mall‐intercept questionnaire survey method from millennials in India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) who aspired to consume luxury fashion goods on rental basis. Statistical tests, including confirmatory factor analysis, multi‐group analysis, and structural equation modeling, were applied for data analysis. Furthermore, an integrated conceptual model based on self‐determination theory and theory of reasoned action is proposed to examine the key driving motivators that affect millennials' attitude and purchase intention of luxury fashion on rent in the UAE and India. The results reveal that significant differences exist across the nations. Experience value and identity projection value had a higher impact on UAE citizens than Indians. The current study is a pioneer study that attempted to understand the young consumer's attitude and purchase intention for luxury fashion rental consumption and examine differences and similarities of millennials across nations.
Accuracy of genomic selection and long‐term genetic gain for resistance to Verticillium wilt in strawberry
Authors: Pincot Dominique D. A. , Hardigan Michael A. , Cole Glenn S. , Famula Randi A. , Henry Peter M. , Gordon Thomas R. , Knapp Steven J.
Published: September 2020

Verticillium wilt, a soil‐borne disease caused by the fungal pathogen Verticillium dahliae, threatens strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) production worldwide. The development of resistant cultivars has been a persistent challenge, in part because the genetics of resistance is complex. The heritability of resistance and genetic gains in breeding for resistance to this pathogen have not been well documented. To elucidate the genetics, assess long‐term genetic gains, and estimate the accuracy of genomic selection for resistance to Verticillium wilt, we analyzed a genetically diverse population of elite and exotic germplasm accessions (n = 984), including 245 cultivars developed since 1854. We observed a full range of phenotypes, from highly susceptible to highly resistant: < 3% were classified as highly resistant, whereas > 50% were classified as moderately to highly susceptible. Broad‐sense heritability estimates ranged from 0.70–0.76, whereas narrow‐sense genomic heritability estimates ranged from 0.33–0.45. We found that genetic gains in breeding for resistance to Verticillium wilt have been negative over the last 165 years (mean resistance has decreased over time). We identified several highly resistant accessions that might harbor favorable alleles that are either rare or non‐existent in modern populations. We did not observe the segregation of large‐effect loci. The accuracy of genomic predictions ranged from 0.38–0.53 among years and whole‐genome regression methods. We show that genomic selection has promise for increasing genetic gains and accelerating the development of resistant cultivars in strawberry by shortening selection cycles and enabling selection in early developmental stages without phenotyping.
Ambient Temperature Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Six Transition Metal Acetylenedicarboxylate Coordination Polymers
Authors: Best‐Thompson Luke , Saines Paul J.
Published: September 2020

This work reports the ambient temperature synthesis and structural characterization of six new first row transition metal acetylenedicarboxylate coordination polymers. The Co and two Ni compounds adopt structures in which the octahedral metals are connected into 1D chains via the acetylenedicarboxylate ligand. In contrast the Mn and two Zn compounds adopt 3D metal‐organic frameworks; while the Mn compound is non‐porous the two Zn structures contain dimeric or trimeric clusters connected into frameworks that are potentially porous. These two anionic metal‐organic frameworks are, however, charged balanced by cations siting in their pores which greatly reduces the ability to access their porosity.
Two bonded half‐planes with a parabolic inclusion
Authors: Wang Xu , Schiavone Peter
Published: September 2020

In this paper, primarily with the aid of analytic continuation, we derive analytic solutions for Eshelby's problem of a parabolic inclusion undergoing uniform anti‐plane and in‐plane eigenstrains located in one of two well‐bonded dissimilar elastic half‐planes. We obtain elementary expressions of the analytic functions defined in all three phases characterizing the elastic fields representing displacements, strains and stresses in the composite.
The Grassmannian VOA
Authors: Eberhardt Lorenz , Procházka Tomáš
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We study the 3-parametric family of vertex operator algebras based on the Grassmannian coset CFT $$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(M + N )k /($$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(M )k×$$ \mathfrak{u} $$
u
(N )k ). This VOA serves as a basic building block for a large class of cosets and generalizes the $$ {\mathcal{W}}_{\infty } $$

W
∞

algebra. We analyze representations and their characters in detail and find surprisingly simple character formulas for the representations in the generic parameter regime that admit an elegant combinatorial formulation. We also discuss truncations of the algebra and give a conjectural formula for the complete set of truncation curves. We develop a theory of gluing for these algebras in order to build more complicated coset and non-coset algebras. We demonstrate the power of this technology with some examples and show in particular that the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 supersymmetric Grassmannian can be obtained by gluing three bosonic Grassmannian algebras in a loop. We finally speculate about the tantalizing possibility that this algebra is a specialization of an even larger 4-parametric family of algebras exhibiting pentality symmetry. Specializations of this conjectural family should include both the unitary Grassmannian family as well as the Lagrangian Grassmannian family of VOAs which interpolates between the unitary and the orthosymplectic cosets.
Mixed QCD⊗QED corrections to exclusive Drell Yan production using the qT -subtraction method
Authors: Cieri Leandro , de Florian Daniel , Der Manuel , Mazzitelli Javier
Published: September 2020

Abstract

In this work we extend the qT -subtraction formalism, originally developed for QCD corrections, to the case of mixed QCD⊗QED corrections, and apply it to the fully exclusive calculation of the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s\alpha \right) $$
O

α
s

α

contribution to the production of an off-shell Z boson in hadronic collisions. We present explicit results for the subtraction term and the hard factor, therefore providing all the ingredients needed for the application of the formalism up to $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s\alpha \right) $$
O

α
s

α

. To study the phenomenological impact we consider the decay of the off-shell Z boson into a pair of neutrinos, and present kinematical distributions for the final-state leptons at LHC energies.
Correlation functions of symmetric orbifold from AdS3 string theory
Authors: Hikida Yasuaki , Liu Tianshu
Published: September 2020

Abstract

The paper examines correspondence among correlation functions of symmetric orbifold and string theory on AdS3 described by sl(2) Wess-Zumino-Novikov-Witten (WZNW) model. We start by writing down n-point function of twist operators in the symmetric orbifold in terms of the data of effective Riemann surface. It is then shown that the correlation function can be reproduced from the sl(2) WZNW model. The computation is based on the claim that string worldsheet is given by the same Riemann surface and the reduction method from sl(2) WZNW model to Liouville field theory. We first consider the genus zero surface and then generalize the analysis to the case of generic genus. The radius of AdS3 is related to the level k of the WZNW model. For k = 3, our result should be an important ingredient for deriving AdS3/CFT2 correspondence with tensionless superstrings to all orders in string perturbation theory. For generic k, relations involving specific forms of correlation functions for strings on AdS3× X were obtained.
Costs of diabetes complications: hospital-based care and absence from work for 392,200 people with type 2 diabetes and matched control participants in Sweden
Authors: Andersson Emelie , Persson Sofie , Hallén Nino , Ericsson Åsa , Thielke Desirée , Lindgren Peter , Steen Carlsson Katarina , Jendle Johan
Published: September 2020

Aims/hypothesis

The risk of complications and medical consequences of type 2 diabetes are well known. Hospital costs have been identified as a key driver of total costs in studies of the economic burden of type 2 diabetes. Less evidence has been generated on the impact of individual diabetic complications on the overall societal burden. The objective of this study was to analyse costs of hospital-based healthcare (inpatient and outpatient care) and work absence related to individual macrovascular and microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes in Sweden in 2016.

Methods

Data for 2016 were retrieved from a Swedish national retrospective observational database cross-linking individual-level data for 1997–2016. The database contained information from population-based health, social insurance and socioeconomic registers for 392,200 people with type 2 diabetes and matched control participants (5:1). Presence of type 2 diabetes and of diabetes complications were derived using all years, 1997–2016. Costs of hospital-based care and of absence from work due to diabetes complications were estimated for the year 2016. Regression analysis was used for comparison with control participants to attribute absence from work to individual complications, and to account for joint presence of complications.

Results

Use of hospital care for complications was higher in type 2 diabetes compared with control participants in 2016: 26% vs 12% had ≥1 hospital contact; there were 86,104 vs 24,608 outpatient visits per 100,000 people; and there were 9894 vs 2546 inpatient admissions per 100,000 people (all p < 0.001). The corresponding total costs of hospital-based care for complications were €919 vs €232 per person (p < 0.001), and 74.7% of costs were then directly attributed to diabetes (€687 per person). Regression analyses distributed the costs of days absent from work across diabetes complications per se, basic type 2 diabetes effect and unattributed causes. Diabetes complications amounted to €1317 per person in 2016, accounting for possible complex interactions (25% of total costs of days absent). Key drivers of costs were the macrovascular complications angina pectoris, heart failure and stroke; and the microvascular complications eye diseases, including retinopathy, kidney disease and neuropathy. Early mortality in working ages cost an additional €579 per person and medications used in risk-factor treatment amounted to €418 per person.

Conclusions/interpretation

The economic burden of complications in type 2 diabetes is substantial. Costs of absence from work in this study were found to be greater than of hospital-based care, highlighting the need for considering treatment consequences in a societal perspective in research and policy.

Graphical abstract
Nature-inspired optimization of tubular joints for metal 3D printing
Authors: Kanyilmaz Alper , Berto Filippo , Paoletti Ingrid , Caringal Ric Joseph , Mora Samantha
Published: September 2020

Steel tubular frames are often used to build a variety of structures because of their optimal mechanical properties and attractive forms. However, their joint fabrication involves a vast quantity of cutting and welding works, which induces high labour costs, material waste, and environmental pollution. The construction industry dominates the global carbon footprint, and it needs more sustainable products. Nature’s structures are also often tubular, and their joints (e.g. the knees of a human body, the nodes of trees and plants) are intrinsically optimized to maximize stiffness, resistance, and robustness. The 3D metal printing technology can enable a nature-inspired optimization of steel tubular joints, saving material waste and decreasing fabrication costs as well as the carbon footprint of the sector, since it is free from the constraints of traditional manufacturing. In this study, we designed new tubular joint shapes using solid isotropic material with the penalization (SIMP) method. The objective of the optimization was to maximize the structural performance of the node. The optimized node that used to be achieved after a complex manufacturing process composed of numerous cutting and welding operations, can now be 3D printed and then connected to the rest of the joint leading to a shorter fabrication time. We quantified the joints’ structural performance with different grades of optimization using non-linear finite element analysis. Compared with the conventional joint shapes, the new geometries offered a higher stiffness, resistance, and robustness. We performed a powder bed fusion simulation to analyze the residual stresses after production, and estimated the cost of the new solutions.
Towards the formalization of non-functional requirements in conceptual design
Authors: Shankar Prabhu , Morkos Beshoy , Yadav Darshan , Summers Joshua D.
Published: September 2020

This paper explores the formal roles of non-functional requirements’ (NFR) elicitation, definition, and verification in the early stages of an engineering design project. This is performed using a case study conducted at an automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) during the design and development of a rear bumper sub-system. The purpose of this exploration is to determine if NFRs should be formalized within requirements modeling scheme. This can capture conceptual design information to identify their impact on other requirements while conducting design changes. The modeling scheme in this paper consists of a sequence of following domains—requirements, functions, working principle, components, design parameters, test measures, and tests—that are mapped to each other using matrices. It is revealed through this case study that non-functional requirements drive much of the design decision-making process and constrain the manner in which the product functionality is realized. Hence, the inclusion of NFRs as a separate and distinct domain in the design process is critical to recognize their significance during design changes. Based on the observations made in the case study, the NFR domain is included in the requirements modeling scheme.
Mechanical allodynia triggered by cold exposure in mice with the Scn11a p.R222S mutation: a novel model of drug therapy for neuropathic pain related to NaV1.9
Authors: Matsubara Yosuke , Okuda Hiroko , Harada Kouji H. , Youssefian Shohab , Koizumi Akio
Published: September 2020

Mutations within the SCN11A gene which encodes the voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.9 mainly expressed in small fiber sensory neurons have been associated with neuropathic disorders; however, suitable medications have not been fully investigated. To develop drug therapies against NaV1.9-related neuropathic pain, we aimed to establish a novel model using mice carrying the Scn11a p.R222S mutation initially identified in patients with familial episodic limb pain that is characterized by paroxysmal pain induced by fatigue or bad weather conditions. We investigated the influence of cold exposure (4 °C, overnight) on the behavioral and biochemical phenotypes of Scn11a p.R222S mutant (R222S) and wild type C57BL/6N (WT) mice. We also tested the effects of acetaminophen (125, 250 mg/kg, perorally, p.o.) and traditional Japanese medicine, goshajinkigan (0.5 or 1.0 g/kg, p.o.), which are analgesic drugs prescribed to patients with neuropathic pain, in this model of cold-induced mechanical allodynia in R222S mice.

Cold-exposed R222S mice exhibited enhanced mechanical allodynia and thermal hypersensitivity compared with WT mice. The decrease of the mechanical withdrawal threshold in R222S mice was reversible 24 h after housing at room temperature. There was no significant change in the levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, or interferon-γ in the plasma or spinal cords of WT and R222S mice after cold exposure. Both acetaminophen (250 mg/kg) and goshajinkigan (1.0 g/kg) significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia in R222S mice. The model of cold-induced mechanical allodynia in mice with the Scn11a p.R222S mutation is novel and useful for evaluating analgesic drugs for intractable neuropathies related to NaV1.9.
Discrete Symmetries of Complete Intersection Calabi–Yau Manifolds
Authors: Lukas Andre , Mishra Challenger
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we classify non-freely acting discrete symmetries of complete intersection Calabi–Yau manifolds and their quotients by freely-acting symmetries. These non-freely acting symmetries can appear as symmetries of low-energy theories resulting from string compactifications on these Calabi–Yau manifolds, particularly in the context of the heterotic string. Hence, our results are relevant for four-dimensional model building with discrete symmetries and they give an indication which symmetries of this kind can be expected from string theory. For the 1695 known quotients of complete intersection manifolds by freely-acting discrete symmetries, non-freely-acting, generic symmetries arise in 381 cases and are, therefore, a relatively common feature of these manifolds. We find that 9 different discrete groups appear, ranging in group order from 2 to 18, and that both regular symmetries and R-symmetries are possible.
Multiparametric PET and MRI of myocardial damage after myocardial infarction: correlation of integrin αvβ3 expression and myocardial blood flow
Authors: Makowski Marcus R. , Rischpler Christoph , Ebersberger Ullrich , Keithahn Alexandra , Kasel Markus , Hoffmann Ellen , Rassaf Tienush , Kessler Horst , Wester Hans-Jürgen , Nekolla Stephan G. , Schwaiger Markus , Beer Ambros J.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Increased angiogenesis after myocardial infarction is considered an important favorable prognostic parameter. The αvβ3 integrin is a key mediator of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and an important molecular target for imaging of neovasculature and repair processes after MI. Thus, imaging of αvβ3 expression might provide a novel biomarker for assessment of myocardial angiogenesis as a prognostic marker of left ventricular remodeling after MI. Currently, there is limited data available regarding the association of myocardial blood flow and αvβ3 integrin expression after myocardial infarction in humans.

Methods

Twelve patients were examined 31 ± 14 days after MI with PET/CT using [18F]Galacto-RGD and [13N]NH3 and with cardiac MRI including late enhancement on the same day. Normal myocardium (remote) and areas of infarction (lesion) were identified on the [18F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT images by correlation with [13N]NH3 PET and cardiac MRI. Lesion/liver-, lesion/blood-, and lesion/remote ratios were calculated. Blood flow and [18F]Galacto-RGD uptake were quantified and correlated for each myocardial segment (AHA 17-segment model).

Results

In 5 patients, increased [18F]Galacto-RGD uptake was notable within or adjacent to the infarction areas with a lesion/remote ratio of 46% (26–83%; lesion/blood 1.15 ± 0.06; lesion/liver 0.61 ± 0.18). [18F]Galacto-RGD uptake correlated significantly with infarct size (R = 0.73; p = 0.016). Moreover, it correlated significantly with restricted blood flow for all myocardial segments (R = − 0.39; p < 0.0001) and even stronger in severely hypoperfused areas (R = − 0.75; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

[18F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT allows the visualization and quantification of myocardial αvβ3 expression as a key player in angiogenesis in a subset of patients after MI. αvβ3 expression was more pronounced in patients with larger infarcts and was generally more intense but not restricted to areas with more impaired blood flow, proving that tracer uptake was largely independent of unspecific perfusion effects. Based on these promising results, larger prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the potential of αvβ3 imaging for assessment of myocardial angiogenesis and prediction of ventricular remodeling.
Estimation of the National Surgical Needs in India by Enumerating the Surgical Procedures in an Urban Community Under Universal Health Coverage
Authors: Bhandarkar Prashant , Gadgil Anita , Patil Priti , Mohan Monali , Roy Nobhojit
Published: September 2020

Background

11% of the global burden of disease requires surgical care or anaesthesia management or both. Some studies have estimated this burden to be as high as 30%. The Lancet Commission for Global Surgery (LCoGS) estimated that 5000 surgeries are required to meet the surgical burden of disease for 100,000 people in LMICs. Studies from LMICs, estimating surgical burden based on enumeration of surgeries, are sparse.

Method

We performed this study in an urban population availing employees’ heath scheme in Mumbai, India. Surgical procedures performed in 2017 and 2018, under this free and equitable health scheme, were enumerated. We estimated the surgical needs for national population, based on age and sex distribution of surgeries and age standardization from our cohort.

Result

A total of 4642 surgeries were performed per year for a population of 88,273. Cataract (22.8%), Caesareans (3.8%), surgeries for fractures (3.27%) and hernia (2.86%) were the commonest surgeries. 44.2% of surgeries belonged to the essential surgeries. We estimated 3646 surgeries would be required per 100,000 Indian population per year. One‐third of these surgeries would be needed for the age group 30–49 years, in the Indian population.

Conclusion

A total of 3646 surgeries were estimated annually to meet the surgical needs of Indian population as compared to the global estimate of 5000 surgeries per 100,000 people. Caesarean section, cataract, surgeries for fractures and hernia are the major contributors to the surgical needs. More enumeration‐based studies are needed for better estimates from rural as well as other urban areas.
MR 4D flow-based mean pulmonary arterial pressure tracking in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Reiter Ursula , Kovacs Gabor , Reiter Clemens , Kräuter Corina , Nizhnikava Volha , Fuchsjäger Michael , Olschewski Horst , Reiter Gert
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Longitudinal hemodynamic follow-up is important in the management of pulmonary hypertension (PH). This study aimed to evaluate the potential of MR 4-dimensional (4D) flow imaging to predict changes in the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) during serial investigations.

Methods

Forty-four adult patients with PH or at risk of developing PH repeatedly underwent routine right heart catheterization (RHC) and near-term MR 4D flow imaging of the main pulmonary artery. The duration of vortical blood flow along the main pulmonary artery was evaluated from MR 4D velocity fields using prototype software and converted to an MR 4D flow imaging-based mPAP estimate (mPAPMR) by a previously established model. The relationship of differences between RHC-derived baseline and follow-up mPAP values (ΔmPAP) to corresponding differences in mPAPMR (ΔmPAPMR) was analyzed by means of regression and Bland-Altman analysis; the diagnostic performance of ΔmPAPMR in predicting mPAP increases or decreases was investigated by ROC analysis.

Results

Areas under the curve for the prediction of mPAP increases and decreases were 0.92 and 0.93, respectively. With the natural cutoff ΔmPAPMR = 0 mmHg, mPAP increases (decreases) were predicted with an accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 91% (91%), 85% (89%), and 94% (92%), respectively. For patients in whom 4D flow allowed a point estimate of mPAP (mPAP > 16 mmHg), ΔmPAPMR correlated strongly with ΔmPAP (r = 0.91) and estimated ΔmPAP bias-free with a standard deviation of 5.1 mmHg.

Conclusions

MR 4D flow imaging allows accurate non-invasive prediction and quantification of mPAP changes in adult patients with PH or at risk of developing PH.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00575692 and NCT01725763

Key Points

• MR 4D flow imaging allows accurate non-invasive prediction of mean pulmonary arterial pressure increases and decreases in adult patients with or at risk of developing pulmonary hypertension.

• In adult patients with mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 16 mmHg, MR 4D flow imaging allows estimation of longitudinal mean pulmonary arterial pressure changes without bias with a standard deviation of 5.1 mmHg.
The impact of Hayward green kiwifruit on dietary protein digestion and protein metabolism
Authors: Park Sanghee , Church David D. , Starck Carlene , Schutzler Scott E. , Azhar Gohar , Kim Il-Young , Ferrando Arny A. , Moughan Paul J. , Wolfe Robert R.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to determine if an actinidin protease aids gastric digestion and the protein anabolic response to dietary protein.

Methods

Hayward green kiwifruit (containing an actinidin protease) and Hort 16A gold kiwifruit (devoid of actinidin protease) were given in conjunction with a beef meal to healthy older subjects. Twelve healthy older males (N = 6) and females (N = 6) were studied with a randomized, double-blinded, crossover design to assess muscle and whole-body protein metabolism before and after ingestion of kiwifruit and 100 g of ground beef. Subjects consumed 2 of each variety of kiwifruit daily for 14 d prior to each metabolic study, and again during each study with beef intake.

Results

Hayward green kiwifruit consumption with beef resulted in a more rapid increase in peripheral plasma essential amino acid concentrations. There were significant time by kiwifruit intake interactions for plasma concentrations of EAAs, branched chain amino acids (BCAAs), and leucine (P < 0.01). However, there was no difference in the total amount of EAAs absorbed. As a result, there were no differences between kiwifruit in any of the measured parameters of protein kinetics.

Conclusion

Consumption of Hayward green kiwifruit, with a beef meal facilitates protein digestion and absorption of the constituent amino acids as compared to Hort 16A gold kiwifruit.

Clinical trial

NCT04356573, April 21, 2020 “retrospectively registered”.
Teaching middle ear anatomy using a novel three-dimensional papercraft model
Authors: Guy John , Muzaffar Jameel , Coulson Christopher
Published: September 2020

Background

The middle ear is a complex anatomical space which is difficult to interpret from two-dimensional imagery. Appropriate surgical knowledge of the area is required to operate, yet current anatomical teaching methods are costly and hard to access for the trainee.

Methods

A papercraft 3D design involving anatomical elements added separately to a model was designed, and then peer-validated by medical students and junior doctors. Preliminary quantitative assessment was performed using an anatomical labelling questionnaire, with six students given a lecture to act as a control. Qualitative feedback was also gathered.

Results

18 participants were recruited for the study. A total of 12 models were constructed by 6 medical students and 6 junior doctors. 6 medical students received a lecture only. Qualitative feedback was positive and suggested the model improved knowledge and was useful, yet timing and complexity were issues. Students scored, on average, 37% higher after completing the model, with junior doctors also improving anatomical knowledge, though these differences were not significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

In this initial investigation, the model was shown to be an engaging way to learn anatomy, with the tactile and active nature of the process cited as benefits. Construction of the model improved anatomical knowledge to a greater extent than a classical lecture in this study, though this difference was not significant. Further design iterations are required to improve practical utility in the teaching environment, as well as a larger study.
Longitudinal prediction of falls and near falls frequencies in Parkinson’s disease: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Lindholm Beata , Brogårdh Christina , Odin Per , Hagell Peter
Published: September 2020

Introduction and objective

Several prediction models for falls/near falls in Parkinson’s disease (PD) have been proposed. However, longitudinal predictors of frequency of falls/near falls are poorly investigated. Therefore, we aimed to identify short- and long-term predictors of the number of falls/near falls in PD.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 58 persons with PD was assessed at baseline (mean age and PD duration, 65 and 3.2 years, respectively) and 3.5 years later. Potential predictors were history of falls and near falls, comfortable gait speed, freezing of gate, dyskinesia, retropulsion, tandem gait (TG), pain, and cognition (Mini-Mental State Exam, MMSE). After each assessment, the participants registered a number of falls/near falls during the following 6 months. Multivariate Poisson regression was used to identify short- and long-term predictors of a number of falls/near falls.

Results

Baseline median (q1–q3) motor (UPDRS) and MMSE scores were 10 (6.75–14) and 28.5 (27–29), respectively. History of falls was the only significant short-time predictor [incidence rate ratio (IRR), 15.17] for the number of falls/near falls during 6 months following baseline. Abnormal TG (IRR, 3.77) and lower MMSE scores (IRR, 1.17) were short-term predictors 3.5 years later. Abnormal TG (IRR, 7.79) and lower MMSE scores (IRR, 1.49) at baseline were long-term predictors of the number of falls/near falls 3.5 years later.

Conclusion

Abnormal TG and MMSE scores predict the number of falls/near falls in short and long term, and may be indicative of disease progression. Our observations provide important additions to the evidence base for clinical fall prediction in PD.
Secondary prevention for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B: are all the nucleos(t)ide analogues the same?
Authors: Yip Terry Cheuk-Fung , Lai Jimmy Che-To , Wong Grace Lai-Hung
Published: September 2020

Reducing the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is the key ultimate goal set in essentially all treatment guidelines. There has been solid evidence supporting the relationship between serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level and risk of HCC. Antiviral treatment with oral nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) leads to sustained viral suppression and hence is often adopted as the secondary prevention for HCC in CHB patients. The first-generation NA, lamivudine, reduced the risk of HCC at 3 years compared to placebo; yet, its high emergence of antiviral resistance has made it no longer recommended in the international guidelines. Recent heated debate is about the two current first-line NAs—entecavir and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)—Are they just as good to reduce HCC risk in CHB patients? A handful of cohort studies show two different kinds of observations—TDF is better than entecavir in lowering HCC risk, or these two NAs have led to similarly low risk of HCC. Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), a modified version of TDF higher rate of ALT normalization, would be another potent nucleotide analogue is the treatment of choice for secondary prevention for HCC.
Impact of ship operations aided by voyage optimization on a ship’s fatigue assessment
Authors: Lang Xiao , Wang Helong , Mao Wengang , Osawa Naoki
Published: September 2020

In this study, different operation factors affecting a ship’s wave statistics are studied, such as the slow steaming and voyage optimizations. Especially, the impact of various voyage optimization methods on the long-term wave statistics and corresponding fatigue damage during ship operations is investigated by comparing the encountered waves with the design wave scatter diagram. Three years of full-scale measurements from a container ship sailing in the North Atlantic are employed to study the impact, in addition to noon reports from two fleets of container ships and VLCCs. Furthermore, the benefits of using voyage optimizations for minimum fatigue damage accumulation during operation are discussed. The large difference of wave statistics is found when the ship follows routes generated by various optimization methods and the design diagram. For some westbound voyages, the voyage optimization methods can significantly decrease the ship’s fatigue damage accumulations, leading to longer fatigue life.
A cross-sectional study of sleep and depression in a rheumatoid arthritis population
Authors: Hughes Mark , Chalk Alan , Sharma Poonam , Dahiya Sandeep , Galloway James
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of impaired sleep quality and depression in a rheumatoid arthritis population and determine their correlation with Disease Activity Score (DAS) and its components.

Methods

In this single-centre observational cross-sectional study, data was collected by the assessing clinician for DAS28, age and gender in various treatment groups according to use of csDMARDs, biologics and long-term steroids. Presence of impaired sleep quality and depression was assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Public Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ 9). Correlation for DAS and its components with the outcomes was determined by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Multivariate analysis was performed by logistic regression.

Results

Two hundred patients were included. The prevalence across all subgroups of poor sleep quality and depression were 86.5% and 30%, respectively, with a correlation coefficient of 0.69 between the two and poor sleep quality amongst all RA patients with comorbid depression. Multivariate analysis found only subjective DAS components, tender joint count (TJC) and patient global health visual analogue score (VAS) to significantly correlate with both outcomes. Age inversely correlated with depression. Long-term steroid use was associated with poorer sleep quality, but there was no significant effect of csDMARDs or biologics. There was no significant difference in prevalence of depression amongst treatment subgroups.

Conclusion

Poor sleep quality and to a lesser extent depression are prevalent in the general rheumatoid arthritis population. Patients would benefit from clinicians measuring these outcomes routinely as they constitute a significant non-inflammatory burden of living with rheumatoid disease.

Key Points• Subjective components of DAS independently correlate with sleep quality and depression, while objective components do not.• Poor sleep quality is highly prevalent in RA and present in all those with comorbid depression.• Poor sleep quality and depression incidence in RA are much lower when DAS is low or remission.
Apararenone in patients with diabetic nephropathy: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 dose–response study and open-label extension study
Authors: Wada Takashi , Inagaki Masaya , Yoshinari Toru , Terata Ryuji , Totsuka Naoko , Gotou Miki , Hashimoto Gaia
Published: September 2020

Background

We investigated the efficacy and safety of apararenone (MT-3995), a non-steroidal compound with mineralocorticoid receptor agonist activity, in patients with stage 2 diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Methods

The study had two parts: a dose–response, parallel-group, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, phase 2, 24-week study and an open-label, uncontrolled, 28-week extension study. Primary and secondary endpoints were the 24-week percent change from baseline in urine albumin to creatine ratio (UACR) and 24- and 52-week UACR remission rates. Safety parameters were changes from baseline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum potassium at 24 and 52 weeks, and incidences of adverse events (AEs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Results

In the dose–response period, 73 patients received placebo and 73, 74, and 73 received apararenone 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg, respectively. As a percentage of baseline, mean UACR decreased to 62.9%, 50.8%, and 46.5% in the 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg apararenone groups, respectively, at week 24 (placebo: 113.7% at week 24; all P < 0.001 vs placebo). UACR remission rates at week 24 were 0.0%, 7.8%, 29.0%, and 28.1% in the placebo and apararenone 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg groups, respectively. eGFR tended to decrease and serum potassium tended to increase, but these events were not clinically significant. AE incidence increased with dose while ADR incidence did not.

Conclusion

The UACR-lowering effect of apararenone administered once daily for 24 weeks in patients with stage 2 DN was confirmed, and the 52-week administration was safe and tolerable.

Clinical trial registration

NCT02517320 (dose–response study) and NCT02676401 (extension study)
Eternalism and Perspectival Realism About the ‘Now’
Authors: Slavov Matias
Published: September 2020

Eternalism is the view that all times are equally real. The relativity of simultaneity in special relativity backs this up. There is no cosmically extended, self-existing ‘now.’ This leads to a tricky problem. What makes statements about the present true? I shall approach the problem along the lines of perspectival realism and argue that the choice of the perspective does. To corroborate this point, the Lorentz transformations of special relativity are compared to the structurally similar equations of the Doppler effect. The ‘now’ is perspectivally real in the same way as a particular electromagnetic spectrum frequency. I also argue that the ontology of time licensed by perspectival realism is more credible in this context than its current alternative, the fragmentalist interpretation of special relativity.
Investigating the Effects of Mechanical Properties of Rocks on Specific Energy and Penetration Rate of Borehole Drilling
Authors: Kolapo Peter
Published: September 2020

This paper deals with the analysis of effects of mechanical properties of rock on penetration rate and specific energy. Five specimens were collected from the four locations in Federal capital territory, Abuja. These samples were subjected to laboratory point load strength index using point load testing machine. Results of the point load tests were used to estimate the uniaxial compressive strength of the rocks. The penetration rate and specific energy were determined using empirical equations. The results from the investigation showed that the rate of penetration decreases with increase in rock strength and the specific energy increases with increase in rock strength. Based on the investigation, a number of linear relationships that described the effects of mechanical properties on penetration rate in the drilling process were obtained with strong correlation coefficients.
Bauxite mining at Atewa Forest Reserve, Ghana: a political ecology of a conservation-exploitation conflict
Authors: Purwins Sebastian
Published: September 2020

Atewa Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region of Ghana represents one of only two reserves with upland evergreen forests in Ghana but is also a possible site for bauxite mining. The Government of Ghana deployed an infrastructure in anticipation for a refined bauxite agreement with China. Ghana’s Government seeks to develop an integrated Bauxite-Aluminum Industry; however, several NGOs try to protect the Atewa Forest and propose that the area should be upgraded to a National Park. In this study, this conservation-exploitation conflict is analyzed from a political ecology perspective elaborating on who are the involved key actors, their relations and what strategies are used. Political ecology is about recognizing the power that actors have at the moment of deciding what, how, and where to conserve nature. Based on interviews done during fieldtrips in 2018, 2019 and 2020 complemented by an analysis of political documents, the identified strategies the NGOs are using in this conflict, can be described as demonstration and upscaling. The aim of this paper is to draw attention on the politicization of nature, in particular Atewa forest reserve and its bauxite resources.
Simulating spatial complexity in dry conifer forest restoration: implications for conservation prioritization and scenario evaluation
Authors: Cannon Jeffery B. , Gannon Benjamin M. , Feinstein Jonas A. , Padley Eunice A. , Metz Loretta J.
Published: September 2020

Context

Several initiatives seek to increase the pace and scale of dry forest restoration and fuels reduction to enhance forest resilience to wildfire and other stressors while improving the quality and reliability of key ecosystem services. Ecological effects models are increasingly used to prioritize these efforts at the landscape-scale based on simulated treatment outcomes.

Objectives

Treatments are often simulated using uniform post-treatment target conditions or proportional changes to baseline forest structure variables, but do not account for the common objective of restoration to mimic the complex forest structure that was present historically which is thought to provide an example of structural conditions that contributed to ecosystem diversity and resilience.

Methods

We simulate spatially homogenous fire hazard reduction treatments along with heterogeneous restoration treatments in dry conifer forests to investigate how spatial complexity affects ecological indicators of (1) forest structural heterogeneity, (2) forest and watershed vulnerability to high-severity fire, and (3) feasibility of future prescribed fire use.

Results

Our results suggest that spatially explicit restoration treatments should produce similar wildfire and prescribed fire outcomes as homogeneous fuels reduction treatments, but with greater forest structural heterogeneity. The lack of strong tradeoffs between ecological objectives suggests the primary benefit of spatially complex treatments is to increase forest structural heterogeneity which may promote biodiversity.

Conclusions

We show that landscape-scale prioritization to maximize ecological benefits can change when spatially complex restoration treatments are modeled. Coupling landscape-scale management simulations and ecological effects models offers flexible decision support for conservation assessment, prioritization, and planning.