bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Match-Day Napping in Elite Female Netball Athletes
Authors: O’Donnell Shannon , Beaven Christopher M. , Driller Matthew
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To assess the effect of match-day napping and duration of naps on perceptual and performance indices in elite female netball players over 2 consecutive netball seasons. Methods: A total of 14 elite female netball athletes (mean [SD]; age = 23 [6] y) participated in an observational study over 26 competition matches. On each match day, athletes provided information on their napping habits and perceived energy levels, then performed 3 countermovement jumps 3 h:30 min prior to the start of the match. One hour after the match, subjective player performance ratings from the players and 2 members of the coaching staff were obtained. Naps were characterized into 3 conditions for analysis: no nap (NN), <20-min nap (SHORT), and ≥20-min nap (LONG). Results: A significant difference in peak jump velocity was observed between the SHORT and the NN condition in favor of the shorter nap (3.23 [0.26] and 3.07 [0.36] m·s−1, respectively, d = 0.34, P < .05). A moderate, significant difference (d = 0.85; P < .05) was observed for the coach rating of performance (out of 10) between the SHORT and the NN condition (7.2 [0.8] and 6.4 [0.9], respectively) in favor of SHORT. Conclusions: The findings from the study would suggest that a short nap (<20 min) on the day of competition can enhance jump velocity and improve subjective performance in elite netball players, as assessed by coaching staff.
Upper Trunk–Pelvis Coordination During Running Using the Continuous Relative Fourier Phase Method
Authors: Li Yumeng , Kakar Rumit S. , Walker Marika A. , Guan Li , Simpson Kathy J.
Published: March 2018

The upper trunk–pelvic coordination patterns used in running are not well understood. The purposes of this study are to (1) test the running speed effect on the upper trunk–pelvis axial rotation coordination and (2) present a step-by-step guide of the relative Fourier phase algorithm, as well as some further issues to consider. A total of 20 healthy young adults were tested under 3 treadmill running speeds using a 3-dimensional motion capture system. The upper trunk and pelvic segmental angles in axial rotation were calculated, and the coordination was quantified using the relative Fourier phase method. Results of multilevel modeling indicated that running speed did not significantly contribute to the changes in coordination in a linear pattern. A qualitative template analysis suggested that participants displayed different change patterns of coordination as running speed increased. Participants did not significantly change the upper trunk and pelvis coordination mode in a linear pattern at higher running speeds, possibly because they employed different motion strategies to achieve higher running speeds and thus displayed large interparticipant variations. For most of our runners, running at a speed deviated from the preferred speed could alter the upper trunk–pelvis coordination. Future studies are still needed to better understand the influence of altered coordination on running performance and injuries.
Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis Demonstrate Interlimb Asymmetry in Pedaling Power During Stationary Cycling
Authors: Buddhadev Harsh H. , Crisafulli Daniel L. , Suprak David N. , San Juan Jun G.
Published: March 2018

Cycling is commonly prescribed for physical rehabilitation of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Despite the known therapeutic benefits, no research has examined interlimb symmetry of power output during cycling in these individuals. We investigated the effects of external workload and cadence on interlimb symmetry of crank power output in individuals with knee OA versus healthy controls. A total of 12 older participants with knee OA and 12 healthy sex- and age-matched controls were recruited. Participants performed 2-minute bouts of stationary cycling at 4 workload-cadence conditions (75 W at 60 rpm, 75 W at 90 rpm, 100 W at 60 rpm, and 100 W at 90 rpm). Power output contribution of each limb toward total crank power output was computed over 60 crank cycles from the effective component of pedal force, which was perpendicular to the crank arm. Across the workload-cadence conditions, the knee OA group generated significantly higher power output with the severely affected leg compared with the less affected leg (10% difference;P = .02). Healthy controls did not show interlimb asymmetry in power output (0.1% difference;P> .99). For both groups, interlimb asymmetry was unaffected by external workload and cadence. Our results indicate that individuals with knee OA demonstrate interlimb asymmetry in crank power output during stationary cycling.
TV Viewing in 60,202 Adults From the National Brazilian Health Survey: Prevalence, Correlates, and Associations With Chronic Diseases
Authors: Werneck André O. , Cyrino Edilson S. , Collings Paul J. , Ronque Enio R.V. , Szwarcwald Célia L. , Sardinha Luís B. , Silva Danilo R.
Published: March 2018

Background: This study describes the levels and patterns of television (TV) viewing in Brazilian adults and investigates associations of TV viewing with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Methods: Data from the Brazilian Health Survey, a nationally representative survey that was conducted in 2013 (N = 60,202 men and women aged ≥18 y), were used. Information regarding TV viewing, physician diagnoses of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease was collected via interview-administered questionnaire. Data on covariables (including chronological age, educational status, skin color, sodium consumption, sugar consumption, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, and leisure-time physical activity) were also self-reported. Logistic regression models and population attributable fractions were used for the etiological analyses. Results: The prevalence (95% confidence interval) of >4 hours per day of TV viewing was 12.7% (12.0–13.4) in men and 17.5% (16.8–18.3) in women. Men and women being younger or older, moderately educated, living alone, smoking tobacco, and drinking alcohol were associated with higher reported TV viewing time. Odds ratios (95% confidence interval) revealed that >4 hours per day of TV viewing was associated with type 2 diabetes [male: 1.64 (1.23–2.17) and female: 1.33 (1.09–1.63)], hypertension [male: 1.36 (1.14–1.63) and female: 1.20 (1.05–1.37)], and heart disease [male: 1.96 (1.43–2.69) and female: 1.30 (1.00–1.68)]. Exceeding 4 hours per day of TV viewing was responsible for 6.8% of type 2 diabetes, 3.7% of hypertension, and 7.5% of heart disease cases. Conclusions: Independent of covariates, >4 hours per day of TV viewing was associated with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. High volumes of TV viewing are prevalent and appear to contribute to chronic disease burden.
“You Can’t Just Start and Expect It to Work”: An Investigation of Strategic Capacity Building in Community Sport Organizations
Authors: Millar Patti , Doherty Alison
Published: March 2018

Capacity building is a targeted approach to addressing organizational challenges by focusing development efforts on specific needs. Utilizing Millar and Doherty’s process model of capacity building, the purpose of this study was to (a) gain insight into the nature of the conditions and processes of capacity building in the community sport context and (b) examine the veracity of the proposed model. Interviews were conducted with organizational members from two community sport organizations that were purposefully chosen and happened to have introduced new programs: one that experienced successful capacity building that enhanced program and service delivery and one that experienced unsuccessful capacity building where organizational needs were not effectively addressed. Findings revealed that the thoroughness of the needs assessment, the selection of appropriate capacity building strategies, and readiness to build capacity were key factors in the (lack of) success of the capacity building efforts. Implications for practice and future research on organizational capacity building are presented.
Crossover Effects of Unilateral Static Stretching and Foam Rolling on Contralateral Hamstring Flexibility and Strength
Authors: Killen Benjamin S. , Zelizney Krista L. , Ye Xin
Published: March 2018

Context: Static stretching (SS) and self-administered foam rolling (SAFR) are both effective techniques often used in rehabilitation settings to improve one’s range of motion (ROM). However, their effects on nonintervened contralateral limb’s performance remain equivocal. Objective: To examine the acute effects of unilateral hamstring’s SS and SAFR on the contralateral hip-flexion passive ROM and the strength performance. Design: Randomized crossover trial. Setting: Controlled laboratory. Participants: A total of 23 healthy young adults (13 males and 10 females) participated in this investigation. Interventions: Ten sets of 30-second SS or SAFR were performed on the participants’ dominant hamstring muscles. Main Outcome Measures: Before (pre) and after (post) the interventions, the contralateral hip-flexion passive ROM, the isometric strength of the contralateral hamstrings, and surface electromyography amplitude were measured. Separate 2-way (time × intervention) repeated measures analyses of variance were used to examine the changes in the dependent variables. Results: Both interventions significantly increased the contralateral hip-flexion passive ROM. In addition, the post-ROM value was significantly greater (P = .03) for the SS (mean ± SE = 73.5° ± 4.7°) than that for the SAFR (mean ± SE = 70.3° ± 4.5°). There were also main effects for time (P = .03) and intervention (P = .02) for the contralateral hamstring strength. However, no significant interaction or main effects were found for the normalized electromyography amplitude of the knee flexor muscles. Conclusions: The increased contralateral hip-flexion passive ROM following both interventions was likely due to the enhanced stretch tolerance. However, the differential strength performance responses might be due to different neural mechanisms, which are proposed and discussed.
Vibrations used to talk to quantum circuits
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: March 2018

Sound waves could supplant microwaves in controlling quantum computers.
Comment on “Synthesis and characterization of the pentazolate anion
cyclo
-N
5
–
in (N
5
)
6
(H
3
O)
3
(NH
4
)
4
Cl”
Authors: Huang Rong-Yi , Xu Heng
Published: March 2018

Zhang
et al
. (Reports, 27 January 2017, p. 374) reported synthesis of a
cyclo
-N
5
–
ion putatively stabilized in a solid-state salt by hydrogen bonding from surrounding counterions. We performed theoretical calculations suggesting that HN
5
would be favored over the anion in the reported pentazolate salt via proton transfer.
A landscape of disgust
Authors: Weinstein Sara B. , Buck Julia C. , Young Hillary S.
Published: March 2018

Parasite avoidance behavior affects ecology and evolution in ways similar to predator avoidance
Baculovirus AC102 Is a Nucleocapsid Protein That Is Crucial for Nuclear Actin Polymerization and Nucleocapsid Morphogenesis
Authors: Hepp Susan E. , Borgo Gina M. , Ticau Simina , Ohkawa Taro , Welch Matthew D.
Published: March 2018

The baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV), the type species of alphabaculoviruses, is an enveloped DNA virus that infects lepidopteran insects and is commonly known as a vector for protein expression and cell transduction. AcMNPV belongs to a diverse group of viral and bacterial pathogens that target the host cell actin cytoskeleton during infection. AcMNPV is unusual, however, in that it absolutely requires actin translocation into the nucleus early in infection and actin polymerization within the nucleus late in infection coincident with viral replication. Of the six viral factors that are sufficient, when coexpressed, to induce the nuclear localization of actin, only AC102 is essential for viral replication and the nuclear accumulation of actin. We therefore sought to better understand the role of AC102 in actin mobilization in the nucleus early and late in infection. Although AC102 was proposed to function early in infection, we found that AC102 is predominantly expressed as a late protein. In addition, we observed that AC102 is required for F-actin assembly in the nucleus during late infection, as well as for proper formation of viral replication structures and nucleocapsid morphogenesis. Finally, we found that AC102 is a nucleocapsid protein and a newly recognized member of a complex consisting of the viral proteins EC27, C42, and the actin polymerization protein P78/83. Taken together, our findings suggest that AC102 is necessary for nucleocapsid morphogenesis and actin assembly during late infection through its role as a component of the P78/83-C42-EC27-AC102 protein complex.

IMPORTANCE
The baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) is an important biotechnological tool for protein expression and cell transduction, and related nucleopolyhedroviruses are also used as environmentally benign insecticides. One impact of our work is to better understand the fundamental mechanisms through which AcMNPV exploits the cellular machinery of the host for replication, which may aid in the development of improved baculovirus-based research and industrial tools. Moreover, AcMNPV's ability to mobilize the host actin cytoskeleton within the cell's nucleus during infection makes it a powerful cell biological tool. It is becoming increasingly clear that actin plays important roles in the cell's nucleus, and yet the regulation and function of nuclear actin is poorly understood. Our work to better understand how AcMNPV relocalizes and polymerizes actin within the nucleus may reveal fundamental mechanisms that govern nuclear actin regulation and function, even in the absence of viral infection.
Can virtual autopsy with postmortem CT improve clinical diagnosis of cause of death? A retrospective observational cohort study in a Dutch tertiary referral centre
Authors: Sonnemans Lianne J P , Kubat Bela , Prokop Mathias , Klein Willemijn M
Published: March 2018

Objective

To investigate whether virtual autopsy with postmortem CT (PMCT) improves clinical diagnosis of the immediate cause of death.

Design

Retrospective observational cohort study. Inclusion criteria: inhospital and out-of-hospital deaths over the age of 1 year in whom virtual autopsy with PMCT and conventional autopsy were performed. Exclusion criteria: forensic cases, postmortal organ donors and cases with incomplete scanning procedures. Cadavers were examined by virtual autopsy with PMCT prior to conventional autopsy. The clinically determined cause of death was recorded before virtual autopsy and was then adjusted with the findings of virtual autopsy. Using conventional autopsy as reference standard, we investigated the increase in sensitivity for immediate cause of death, type of pathology and anatomical system involved before and after virtual autopsy.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre.

Participants

86 cadavers that underwent conventional and virtual autopsy between July 2012 and June 2016.

Intervention

PMCT consisted of brain, cervical spine and chest–abdomen–pelvis imaging. Conventional autopsy consisted of thoracoabdominal examination with/without brain autopsy.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Increase in sensitivity for the immediate cause of death, type of pathology (infection, haemorrhage, perfusion disorder, other or not assigned) and anatomical system (pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, other or not assigned) involved, before and after virtual autopsy.

Results

Using PMCT, the sensitivity for immediate cause of death increased with 12% (95% CI 2% to 22%) from 53% (41% to 64%) to 64% (53% to 75%), with 18% (9% to 27%) from 65% (54% to 76%) to 83% (73% to 91%) for type of pathology and with 19% (9% to 30%) from 65% (54% to 76%) to 85% (75% to 92%) for anatomical system.

Conclusion

While unenhanced PMCT is an insufficient substitute for conventional autopsy, it can improve diagnosis of cause of death over clinical diagnosis alone and should therefore be considered whenever autopsy is not performed.
Quality indicators for in-hospital geriatric co-management programmes: a systematic literature review and international Delphi study
Authors: Van Grootven Bastiaan , McNicoll Lynn , Mendelson Daniel A , Friedman Susan M , Fagard Katleen , Milisen Koen , Flamaing Johan , Deschodt Mieke
Published: March 2018

Objective

To find consensus on appropriate and feasible structure, process and outcome indicators for the evaluation of in-hospital geriatric co-management programmes.

Design

An international two-round Delphi study based on a systematic literature review (searching databases, reference lists, prospective citations and trial registers).

Setting

Western Europe and the USA.

Participants

Thirty-three people with at least 2 years of clinical experience in geriatric co-management were recruited. Twenty-eight experts (16 from the USA and 12 from Europe) participated in both Delphi rounds (85% response rate).

Measures

Participants rated the indicators on a nine-point scale for their (1) appropriateness and (2) feasibility to use the indicator for the evaluation of geriatric co-management programmes. Indicators were considered appropriate and feasible based on a median score of seven or higher. Consensus was based on the level of agreement using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method.

Results

In the first round containing 37 indicators, there was consensus on 14 indicators. In the second round containing 44 indicators, there was consensus on 31 indicators (structure=8, process=7, outcome=16). Experts indicated that co-management should start within 24 hours of hospital admission using defined criteria for selecting appropriate patients. Programmes should focus on the prevention and management of geriatric syndromes and complications. Key areas for comprehensive geriatric assessment included cognition/delirium, functionality/mobility, falls, pain, medication and pressure ulcers. Key outcomes for evaluating the programme included length of stay, time to surgery and the incidence of complications.

Conclusion

The indicators can be used to assess the performance of geriatric co-management programmes and identify areas for improvement. Furthermore, the indicators can be used to monitor the implementation and effect of these programmes.
Effect of copayment policies on initial medication non-adherence according to income: a population-based study
Authors: Aznar-Lou Ignacio , Pottegård Anton , Fernández Ana , Peñarrubia-María María Teresa , Serrano-Blanco Antoni , Sabés-Figuera Ramón , Gil-Girbau Montserrat , Fajó-Pascual Marta , Moreno-Peral Patricia , Rubio-Valera Maria
Published: March 2018

Objective

Copayment policies aim to reduce the burden of medication expenditure but may affect adherence and generate inequities in access to healthcare. The objective was to evaluate the impact of two copayment measures on initial medication non-adherence (IMNA) in several medication groups and by income level.

Design

A population-based study was conducted using real-world evidence.

Setting

Primary care in Catalonia (Spain) where two separate copayment measures (fixed copayment and coinsurance) were introduced between 2011 and 2013.

Participant

Every patient with a new prescription issued between 2011 and 2014 (3 million patients and 10 million prescriptions).

Outcomes

IMNA was estimated throughout dispensing and invoicing information. Changes in IMNA prevalence after the introduction of copayment policies (immediate level change and trend changes) were estimated through segmented logistic regression. The regression models were stratified by economic status and medication groups.

Results

Before changes to copayment policies, IMNA prevalence remained stable. The introduction of a fixed copayment was followed by a statistically significant increase in IMNA in poor population, low/middle-income pensioners and low-income non-pensioners (OR from 1.047 to 1.370). In high-income populations, there was a large statistically non-significant increase. IMNA decreased in the low-income population after suspension of the fixed copayment and the introduction of a coinsurance policy that granted this population free access to medications (OR=0.676). Penicillins were least affected while analgesics were affected to the greatest extent. IMNA to medications for chronic conditions increased in low/middle-income pensioners.

Conclusion

Even nominal charge fixed copayment may generate inequities in access to health services. An anticipation effect and expenses associated with IMNA may have generated short-term costs. A reduction in copayment can protect from non-adherence and have positive, long-term effects. Copayment scenarios could have considerable long-term consequences for health and costs due to increased IMNA in medication for chronic physical conditions.
Ingestion of carbohydrate or carbohydrate plus protein does not enhance performance during endurance exercise: a randomized crossover placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Finger Débora , Lanferdini Fábio Juner , Farinha Juliano Boufleur , Brusco Clarissa Müller , Helal Lucas , Boeno Francesco Pinto , Cadore Eduardo Lusa , Pinto Ronei Silveira
Published: March 2018

A beverage containing protein (PRO) and carbohydrate (CHO) may have an ergogenic effect on endurance performance. However, evidence regarding its efficacy on similar conditions to athletes’ race day is still lacking. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of 3 different nutritional supplementation strategies on performance and muscle recovery in a duathlon protocol. Thirteen male athletes (29.7 ± 7.7 years) participated in 3 simulated Olympic-distance duathlon trials (SDTs) under 3 different, randomly assigned supplementation regimens: CHO drink (75 g CHO), isocaloric CHO plus PRO drink (60.5 g CHO and 14.5 g PRO), and placebo drink (PLA). Supplements were offered during the cycling bout. Blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and 24 h after each SDT for creatine kinase (CK) analysis. Isometric peak torque (PT) was measured before and 24 h after each SDT. The primary outcome measure was the time to complete the 5-km running section (t5km) at a self-selected pace. There was no difference in t5kmbetween CHO (1270.3 ± 130.5 s), CHO+PRO (1267.2 ± 138.9 s), and PLA (1275.4 ± 120 s); p = 0.87, effect size (ES) ≤ 0.1. Pre–post changes for PT and CK were not significant for any of the 3 conditions (PT: p = 0.24, ES ≤ 0.4; CK: p = 0.32, ES = 0.3–1.04). For endurance sports lasting up to 2 h, with a pre-exercise meal containing CHO at 1.5 g·kg−1, supplementation with CHO or CHO+PRO does not offer additional benefits for performance and muscle recovery when compared with PLA.
A twist on Hellwinkel’s salt, [P(2,2′-biphenyl)2]+[P(2,2′-biphenyl)3]–
Authors: Hazin Khatera , Gates Derek P.
Published: March 2018

Treating PCl5 with C12H8Li2, generated from either C12H10, C12H8Br2, or C12H8I2, affords three products in different ratios depending on the source of the lithiated biphenyl. Hellwinkel’s salt [P(C12H8)2][P(C12H8)3] ([1][2]) and another product [P(C12H8)(C24H16)][P(C12H8)3] ([1′][2]) were obtained by reacting PCl5 with 2,2′-dilithiobiphenyl [Route A: 2.5 equiv.; obtained from biphenyl, n-BuLi, and TMEDA; Route B: 3.0 equiv.; obtained from 2,2′-diiodobiphenyl and n-BuLi; Route C: 4.0 equiv.; obtained from 2,2′-dibromobiphenyl and n-BuLi]. The synthesis, isolation, and characterization of the chiral spiro-compound [1′][2] and the characterization of the pentavalent phosphorane [P(C12H8)2(C12H9)] (3) are reported. The complex [1′][2] was characterized by 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and mass spectrometry. The pentavalent compound (3) was characterized by 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography.
spd1672, a novel in vivo-induced gene, affects inflammatory response in a murine model of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection
Authors: Gan Lingling , Zhang Xuemei , Xu Xiuyu , Xu Wenchun , Lu Chang , Cui Jin , Wang Hong
Published: March 2018

spd1672, a novel Streptococcus pneumoniae (hereinafter S. pn) gene induced in vivo, has been identified to contribute to the virulence of S. pn; however, the role of spd1672 during host innate immune reaction against S. pn infection is unknown. In the present study, mice were infected with wild-type D39 and mutant D39Δspd1672 strains. Compared with the D39-infected mice, reduced bacterial load and attenuated inflammatory response were observed in the D39Δspd1672-treated mice. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β, in the blood of D39Δspd1672-infected mice were lower than that in the D39-infected group. Additionally, attenuated activation of STAT3 and AKT was observed in the D39Δspd1672-infected mice. In conclusion, our data indicated that spd1672 expression modulates the release of proinflammatory cytokines, and AKT–STAT3 signaling appears to participate in the process. In conclusion, the present study extends our understanding of the role of an in vivo-induced gene in S. pn–host interaction.
Revealing the Neural Mechanisms Underlying the Beneficial Effects of Tai Chi: A Neuroimaging Perspective
Authors: Yu Angus P. , Tam Bjorn T. , Lai Christopher W. , Yu Doris S. , Woo Jean , Chung Ka-Fai , Hui Stanley S. , Liu Justina Y. , Wei Gao X. , Siu Parco M.
Published: March 2018

Tai Chi Chuan (TCC), a traditional Chinese martial art, is well-documented to result in beneficial consequences in physical and mental health. TCC is regarded as a mind-body exercise that is comprised of physical exercise and meditation. Favorable effects of TCC on body balance, gait, bone mineral density, metabolic parameters, anxiety, depression, cognitive function, and sleep have been previously reported. However, the underlying mechanisms explaining the effects of TCC remain largely unclear. Recently, advances in neuroimaging technology have offered new investigative opportunities to reveal the effects of TCC on anatomical morphologies and neurological activities in different regions of the brain. These neuroimaging findings have provided new clues for revealing the mechanisms behind the observed effects of TCC. In this review paper, we discussed the possible effects of TCC-induced modulation of brain morphology, functional homogeneity and connectivity, regional activity and macro-scale network activity on health. Moreover, we identified possible links between the alterations in brain and beneficial effects of TCC, such as improved motor functions, pain perception, metabolic profile, cognitive functions, mental health and sleep quality. This paper aimed to stimulate further mechanistic neuroimaging studies in TCC and its effects on brain morphology, functional homogeneity and connectivity, regional activity and macro-scale network activity, which ultimately lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of TCC on human health.
The black hole interior and the type II Weyl fermions
Authors: Zubkov M. A.
Published: March 2018

It was proposed recently that the black hole may undergo a transition to the state, where inside the horizon the Fermi surface is formed that reveals an analogy with the recently discovered type II Weyl semimetals. In this scenario, the low energy effective theory outside of the horizon is the Standard Model, which describes excitations that reside near a certain point [Formula: see text] in momentum space of the hypothetical unified theory. Inside the horizon the low energy physics is due to the excitations that reside at the points in momentum space close to the Fermi surface. We argue that those points may be essentially distant from [Formula: see text] and, therefore, inside the black hole the quantum states are involved in the low energy dynamics that are not described by the Standard Model. We analyze the consequences of this observation for the physics of the black holes and present the model based on the direct analogy with the type II Weyl semimetals, which illustrates this pattern.
Nonperturbative quark–gluon thermodynamics at finite density
Authors: Andreichikov M. A. , Lukashov M. S. , Simonov Yu. A.
Published: March 2018

Thermodynamics of the quark–gluon plasma at finite density is studied in the framework of the Field Correlator Method, where thermodynamical effects of Polyakov loops and color magnetic confinement are taken into account. Having found good agreement with numerical lattice data for zero density, we calculate pressure [Formula: see text], for [Formula: see text] MeV and [Formula: see text] MeV. For the first time, the explicit integral form is found in this region, demonstrating analytic structure in the complex [Formula: see text] plane. The resulting multiple complex branch points are found at the Roberge–Weiss values of [Formula: see text], with [Formula: see text] defined by the values of Polyakov lines and color magnetic confinement.
A new length scale, and modified Einstein–Cartan–Dirac equations for a point mass
Authors: Singh Tejinder P.
Published: March 2018

We have recently proposed a new action principle for combining Einstein equations and the Dirac equation for a point mass. We used a length scale [Formula: see text], dubbed the Compton–Schwarzschild length, to which the Compton wavelength and Schwarzschild radius are small mass and large mass approximations, respectively. Here, we write down the field equations which follow from this action. We argue that the large mass limit yields Einstein equations, provided we assume the wave function collapse and localization for large masses. The small mass limit yields the Dirac equation. We explain why the Kerr–Newman black hole has the same gyromagnetic ratio as the Dirac electron, both being twice the classical value. The small mass limit also provides compelling reasons for introducing torsion, which is sourced by the spin density of the Dirac field. There is thus a symmetry between torsion and gravity: torsion couples to quantum objects through Planck’s constant [Formula: see text] (but not [Formula: see text]) and is important in the microscopic limit. Whereas gravity couples to classical matter, as usual, through Newton’s gravitational constant [Formula: see text] (but not [Formula: see text]), and is important in the macroscopic limit. We construct the Einstein–Cartan–Dirac equations which include the length [Formula: see text]. We find a potentially significant change in the coupling constant of the torsion driven cubic nonlinear self-interaction term in the Dirac–Hehl–Datta equation. We speculate on the possibility that gravity is not a fundamental interaction, but emerges as a consequence of wave function collapse, and that the gravitational constant maybe expressible in terms of Planck’s constant and the parameters of dynamical collapse models.
Numerical Simulation of Rayleigh–Taylor Instability by Multiphase MPS Method
Authors: Wen Xiao , Wan Decheng
Published: March 2018

The Rayleigh–Taylor instability (RTI) problem is one of the classic hydrodynamic instability cases in natural scenarios and industrial applications. For the numerical simulation of the RTI problem, this paper presents a multiphase method based on the moving particle semi-implicit (MPS) method. Herein, the incompressibility of the fluids is satisfied by solving a Poisson Pressure Equation (PPE) and the pressure fluctuation is suppressed. A single set of equations is utilized for fluids with different densities, making the method relatively simple. To deal with the mathematical discontinuity of density in the two-phase interface, a transitional region is introduced into this method. For particles in the transitional region, a density smoothing scheme is applied to improve the numerical stability. The simulation results show that the present MPS multiphase method is capable of capturing the evolutionary features of the RTI, even in the later stage when the two-phase interface is quite distorted. The unphysical penetration in the interface is limited, proving the stability and accuracy of the proposed method.
Physics Evoked Cloud Method
Authors: Ma Zhibo , Zhao Yazhou
Published: March 2018

In mesh-free methods, discrete equations are built according to physics information of micro-bodies arbitrarily spread in vicinal space. As the requirements about topology of micro-bodies are reduced, simulations with Lagrangian approach may be easier even with large distortions. Owing to the insufficiency of topological information, there is a challenge for mesh-free method to reflect physics especially as discontinuities exist. Based on the physical laws and developing trend of numerical simulation, a new mesh-free systematic method PECM (physics evoked cloud method) with excellent applicability has been developed. High fidelity to physics of the method is demonstrated through five one-dimensional challenging problems in which strong discontinuities exist.
A Novel Pick-Out Theory and Technique for Constructing the Smoothed Derivatives of Functions for Numerical Methods
Authors: Liu G. R.
Published: March 2018

In order to solve partial differential equations (PDEs) numerically, one first needs to approximate the field functions (such as the displacement functions), and then obtain the derivatives of the field functions (such as the strains), by directly differentiating the field functions. Using such direct-derivatives in formulating a numerical method is common and is used in the standard finite element method (FEM), but such models are often found to be “stiff”. In the weakened weak (W2) formulations, it is found that the use of properly re-constructed derivatives can be beneficial in ways because the model can become “softer”. This paper presents a novel “pick-out” theory and technique for re-constructing the derivatives (such as the strains) of functions defined in a local domain, using smoothing operations. The local domain can be a smoothing domain used in the smoothed finite element methods (S-FEMs), smoothed point interpolation methods (S-PIMs), and smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). It is discovered that through the use of a set of linearly independent smoothing functions that are continuous in the local domain, one can simply pick out various orders of smoothed derivatives (at the center of a domain) from any given function that may discontinuous (strictly) inside the local domain. As long as the smoothing function is continuous in the smoothing domain, the picked out “smoothed derivatives” are equivalent (in a local integral sense) to the compatible direct-derivatives, which ensures the convergence of the smoothed model (such as the S-FEM) when the smoothing domains shrinking to zero. The pick-out technique can be used in strong, weak, local weak, weak-strong, or weakened weak formulations to create stable and convergent numerical models. It may offer a new window of opportunity to develop new effective numerical models using smoothed derivatives (strains) that are “softer” and can produce accurate solutions also in the derivatives (strains and stresses) of the field functions (displacements).
Extending the Meshless Local Petrov–Galerkin Method to Solve Stabilized Turbulent Fluid Flow Problems
Authors: Sheikhi Nasrin , Najafi Mohammad , Enjilela Vali
Published: March 2018

The aim of this paper is to extend the meshless local Petrov–Galerkin method to solve stabilized turbulent fluid flow problems. For the unsteady incompressible turbulent fluid flow problems, the Spalart–Allmaras model is used to stabilize the governing equations, and the meshless local Petrov–Galerkin method is extended based on the vorticity-stream function to solve the turbulent flow problems. In this study, the moving least squares scheme interpolates the field variables. The proposed method solves three standard test cases of the turbulent flow over a flat plate, turbulent flow through a channel, and turbulent flow over a backward-facing step for evaluation of the method’s capability, accuracy, and validity purposes. Based on the comparison of the three test cases results with those of the experimental and conventional numerical works available in the literature, the proposed method shows to be accurate and quite implemental. The new extended method in this study together with the previously published works of the authors (on extending the meshless local Petrov–Galerkin method to solve laminar flow problems) now, for the first time, empower the meshless method to solve both laminar and turbulent flow problems.
A Computational Framework for Design and Optimization of Flexoelectric Materials
Authors: Ghasemi Hamid , Park Harold S. , Alajlan Naif , Rabczuk Timon
Published: March 2018

We combine isogeometric analysis (IGA), level set (LS) and pointwise density-mapping techniques for design and topology optimization of piezoelectric/flexoelectric materials. We use B-spline elements to discretize the fourth-order partial differential equations of flexoelectricity, which require at least [Formula: see text] continuous approximations. We adopt the multiphase vector LS model which easily copes with various numbers of material phases and multiple constraints. In case studies, we first confirm the accuracy of the IGA model and then provide numerical examples for both pure and composite flexoelectric structures. The results demonstrate the significant enhancement in electromechanical coupling coefficient that can be obtained using topology optimization and particularly by multi-material topology optimization for flexoelectric composites.
Collective Mode Mining from Molecular Dynamics Simulations: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Camiola Vito Dario , Tozzini Valentina
Published: March 2018

The evaluation of collective modes is fundamental in the analysis of molecular dynamics simulations. Several methods are available to extract that information, i.e., normal mode analysis, principal component and spectral analysis of trajectories, basically differing by the quantity considered as the nodal one (frequency, amplitude, or pattern of displacement) and leading to the definition of different kinds of collective excitations and physical spectral observables. The different views converge in the harmonic regime and/or for homo-atomic systems. However, for anharmonic and out of equilibrium dynamics, different quantities bring different information, and only their comparison can give a complete view of the system behavior. To allow such a comparative analysis, we review and compare the different approaches, applying them in diverse combinations to two examples of physical relevance: graphene and fullerene C[Formula: see text].
Fracture-Directed Steerable Needles
Authors: Yang Fan , Babaiasl Mahdieh , Swensen John P.
Published: March 2018

Steerable needles hold the promise of improving the accuracy of both therapies and biopsies as they are able to steer to a target location around obstructions, correct for disturbances, and account for movement of internal organs. However, their ability to make late-insertion corrections has always been limited by the lower bound on the attainable radius of curvature. This paper presents a new class of steerable needle insertion where the objective is to first control the direction of tissue fracture with an inner stylet and later follow with the hollow needle. This method is shown to be able to achieve radius of curvature as low as 6.9[Formula: see text]mm across a range of tissue stiffnesses and the radius of curvature is controllable from the lower bound up to a near infinite radius of curvature based on the stylet/needle step size. The approach of “fracture-directed” steerable needles indicates the promise of the technique for providing a tissue-agnostic method of achieving high steerability that can account for variability in tissues during a typical procedure and achieve radii of curvature unattainable through current bevel-tipped techniques. A variety of inner stylet geometries are investigated using tissue phantoms with multiple stiffnesses and discrete-step kinematic models of motion are derived heuristically from the experiments. The key finding presented is that it is the geometry of the stylet and the tuning of the bending stiffnesses of both the stylet and the tube, relative to the stiffness of the tissue, that allow for such small radius of curvature even in very soft tissues.
Subduction Orogeny and the Late Cenozoic Evolution of the Mediterranean Arcs
Authors: Royden Leigh , Faccenna Claudio
Published: March 2018

The Late Cenozoic tectonic evolution of the Mediterranean region, which is sandwiched between the converging African and European continents, is dominated by the process of subduction orogeny. Subduction orogeny occurs where localized subduction, driven by negative slab buoyancy, is more rapid than the convergence rate of the bounding plates; it is commonly developed in zones of early or incomplete continental collision. Subduction orogens can be distinguished from collisional orogens on the basis of driving mechanism, tectonic setting, and geologic expression. Three distinct Late Cenozoic subduction orogens can be identified in the Mediterranean region, making up the Western Mediterranean (Apennine, external Betic, Maghebride, Rif), Central Mediterranean (Carpathian), and Eastern Mediterranean (southern Dinaride, external Hellenide, external Tauride) Arcs. The Late Cenozoic evolution of these orogens, described in this article, is best understood in light of the processes that govern subduction orogeny and depends strongly on the buoyancy of the locally subducting lithosphere; it is thus strongly related to paleogeography. Because the slow (4–10 mm/yr) convergence rate between Africa and Eurasia has preserved the early collisional environment, and associated tectonism, for tens of millions of years, the Mediterranean region provides an excellent opportunity to elucidate the dynamic and kinematic processes of subduction orogeny and to better understand how these processes operate in other orogenic systems.
Protective effects of guggulsterone against colitis are associated with the suppression of TREM-1 and modulation of macrophages
Authors: Che Xiumei , Park Ki Cheong , Park Soo Jung , Kang You Hyun , Jin Hyun A , Kim Joo Wan , Seo Dong Hyuk , Kim Dae Kyu , Kim Tae Il , Kim Won Ho , Kim Seung Won , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: March 2018

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1)-expressing intestinal macrophages are significantly increased in the colons of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We focused here on the effects of guggulsterone on macrophage modulation in colitis as a potential therapeutic molecule in human IBD and explore the underlying mechanisms. Gene expression in macrophages was examined and wound-healing assay using HT-29 cells was performed. Colitis in wild-type and IL-10-, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-, and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)-deficient mice was induced via the administration of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) into the colon. In both in vitro and in vivo experiments, guggulsterone suppressed intestinal inflammation amplified by TREM-1 stimulation, in which the suppression of NF-κB, activating protein-1, and proteasome pathways was involved. In the TNBS-induced colitis model, guggulsterone reduced disease activity index scores and TREM-1 expression, stimulated IL-10 production, and improved survival in wild-type mice. These effects were not observed in IL-10-, TLR4-, and MyD88-deficient mice. Guggulsterone also suppressed M1 polarization, yet induced the M2 phenotype in macrophages from IBD patients as well as from mice. These findings indicate that guggulsterone blocks the hyperactivation of macrophages via TREM-1 suppression and induces M2 polarization via IL-10 mediated by the TLR4 signaling pathway. Furthermore, this study provides a new rationale for the therapeutic potential of guggulsterone in the treatment of IBD.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We found that guggulsterone attenuates triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1)-mediated hyperactivation of macrophages and polarizes macrophages toward the M2 phenotype. This was mediated by IL-10 and partly Toll-like receptor 4 signaling pathways. Overall, these data support that guggulsterone as a natural plant sterol modulates macrophage phenotypes in colitis, which may be of novel therapeutic importance in inflammatory bowel disease treatment.
Primary cilia disruption differentially affects the infiltrating and resident macrophage compartment in the liver
Authors: Zimmerman Kurt A. , Song Cheng Jack , Gonzalez-Mize Nancy , Li Zhang , Yoder Bradley K.
Published: March 2018

Hepatorenal fibrocystic disease (HRFCD) is characterized by cysts in the kidney and liver with associated fibrosis and is the result of defects in proteins required for cilia function or assembly. Previous reports indicate that macrophages, mainly M2-like macrophages, contribute to HRFCD, although the origin of these cells (yolk sac-derived resident macrophages vs. bone marrow-derived infiltrating macrophages) and their contribution to the observed phenotypes are unknown. We utilize a congenital model of cilia dysfunction (IFT88Orpk) to study the importance of macrophages in HRFCD. Our data show a rapid expansion of the bile duct region and development of fibrosis between 2 and 4 wk of age. Immunofluorescence microscopy analysis reveals an accumulation of F4/80+ macrophages in regions exhibiting biliary hyperplasia in IFT88Orpk mice. Flow cytometry data show that cilia dysfunction leads to an accumulation of infiltrating macrophages (CD11bhi, F4/80lo) and a reduction of resident macrophage (CD11blo, F4/80hi) number. A majority of the infiltrating macrophages are Ly6chi profibrogenic macrophages. Along with the accumulation of immune cells, expression of proinflammatory and profibrotic transcripts, including TGF-β, TNF-α, IL-1β, and chemokine (C-C) motif ligand 2, is increased. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of flow-sorted cells shows enhanced expression of CCL2 in cholangiocytes and enhanced expression of VEGF-A and IL-6 in Ly6chi macrophages. Genetic inhibition of Ly6chi macrophage accumulation in IFT88Orpk FVB CCR2−/− mice reduced biliary fibrosis but did not affect epithelial expansion. Collectively, these studies suggest that biliary epithelium with defects in primary cilia preferentially recruits Ly6chi infiltrating macrophages, which promote fibrotic progression in HRFCD pathogenesis.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY These studies are the first to address the contribution of the infiltrating and resident macrophage niche during progression of hepatorenal fibrocystic disease (HRFCD). We show that the number of infiltrating macrophages is significantly upregulated in HRFCD mouse models. Finally, we show that prevention of Ly6chi infiltrating macrophage accumulation significantly reduces biliary fibrosis, but not biliary hyperplasia, suggesting that this population may be responsible for the fibrotic progression of the disease in HRFCD patients.
Tumor cross-talk networks promote growth and support immune evasion in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Halbrook Christopher J. , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Lyssiotis Costas A.
Published: March 2018

In the event of an injury, normal tissues exit quiescent homeostasis and rapidly engage a complex stromal and immune program. These tissue repair responses are hijacked and become dysregulated in carcinogenesis to form a growth-supportive tumor microenvironment. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), which remains one of the deadliest major cancers, the microenvironment is a key driver of tumor maintenance that impedes many avenues of therapy. In this review, we outline recent efforts made to uncover the microenvironmental cross-talk mechanisms that support pancreatic cancer cells, and we detail the strategies that have been undertaken to help overcome these barriers.