bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower Vitamin B12 Level at Multiple System Atrophy Diagnosis Is Associated With Shorter Survival
Authors: McCarter Stuart J. , Coon Elizabeth A. , Savica Rodolfo , St Louis Erik K. , Bower James H. , Benarroch Eduardo E. , Sandroni Paola , Low Phillip , Singer Wolfgang
Published: April 2020

Background

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a neurodegenerative disorder from α‐synuclein aggregation. in vitro studies suggest vitamin B12 may interrupt α‐synuclein‐mediated neurodegeneration. The objective of this study was to determine whether serum vitamin B12 level at MSA diagnosis is associated with survival.

Methods

One hundred eighty‐two MSA patients evaluated at Mayo Clinic with vitamin B12 testing were studied. We determined the risk of death in relationship to serum vitamin B12 levels at MSA diagnosis, adjusting for predictors of poor survival.

Results

Predictors of shorter survival included vitamin B12 < 367 ng/L (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.3–2.7), falls within 3 years of MSA diagnosis (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1–2.3), bladder symptoms (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0–2.6), urinary catheter requirement (HR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0–2.8), male sex (HR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.0–2.0), and MSA‐P subtype (HR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0–2.0).

Conclusions

Low vitamin B12 levels are associated with shorter survival in MSA. Additional studies to explore this observation and assess the potential role of vitamin B12 as a modifiable survival factor are needed. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Genetic polymorphisms of IL1RN were associated with lumbar disk herniation risk in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Tai Ariga , Zhu Ming , Qilimuge Han , Rong Hao , He Xue , Bai Mei , Jin Tianbo
Published: April 2020

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐1 is a cytokine superfamily, which involved in the inflammatory process and immune response in human body. IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN) has been found to be associated with risk of lumbar disk herniation (LDH) in Finland samples. However, to date, there was no investigation focus on the polymorphisms of IL1RN in Chinese Han LDH patient.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a case–control study based on 498 LDH patients and 463 controls. Five single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL1RN were genotyped.

Results

As a result, we found that the AG and GG genotypes of rs3181052 were associated with decreased risk LDH under the dominant model (OR = 0.74, 95%CI: 0.57–0.96, p = .025). In the stratification analysis, the frequency of the “A” allele of rs17042888 was significantly lower in elder LDH cases than in controls (OR = 0.723, 95%CI: 0.544–0.961, p = .025). In addition, the AG and AA genotypes of rs17042888 were associated with decreased risk of LDH in elder group under the dominant model (OR = 0.69, 95%CI: 0.49–0.98, p = .038). The GG genotype of rs315919 was identified have correlation with decreased risk of LDH in elder group under the recessive model (OR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.37–0.97, p = .034).

Conclusions

Our data showed that IL1RN may be a susceptibility gene for risk of LDH in Chinese Han population.
Real Paley–Wiener theorems for the (k,a)‐generalized Fourier transform
Authors: Li Shanshan , Leng Jinsong , Fei Minggang
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we obtain several versions of the real Paley–Wiener theorems for the (k,a)‐generalized Fourier transform recently investigated at length by Ben Saïd, Kobayashi, and Ørsted. This generalized Fourier transform can be regarded as a two‐parameter generalization of Howe's description of classical Fourier transform, where k is a multiplicity function for the Dunkl operators on
and a>0 arises from the interpolation of the two Lie algebra
actions on the Weil representation of
and the minimal unitary representation of the O(d+1,2).
Diving into the Heterogeneity of Inclusion Body Myositis
Authors: Kushlaf Hani
Published: April 2020

See article on pages 76–82 in this issue.
Window Washers on a Windowless Prison
Authors: Scott Jason
Published: April 2020

This photograph examines the erasure of prisons from the urban landscape. The false or blind windows symbolize an important point of reflection for understanding the process of community making that surrounds incarceration.
Clinical Outcomes Associated With Commercial and Homemade Blenderized Tube Feedings: A Literature Review
Authors: Brown Terry , Zelig Rena , Radler Diane Rigassio
Published: April 2020

There is emerging evidence in the pediatric population that blenderized tube feeding (BTF) may improve gastrointestinal intolerance; however, not much is known about the impact of BTF on clinical outcomes in adults. This article presents a review of the literature published in the past 10 years that explored the impact of BTF on nutrition status (ie, weight status, body mass index, and upper‐arm circumference) and nutrition adequacy in adults. The results indicate that BTF, compared with commercial enteral formula (CEF), may be inadequate in calories, macronutrients, and some micronutrients, given variability in BTF formula composition. As a result, BTF may result in significantly more weight loss than CEF. Thus, BTF may not be appropriate for adult patients who are malnourished or are at risk for malnutrition due to the potential worsening of clinical outcomes.
Spanning tree modulus for secure broadcast games
Authors: Albin Nathan , Kottegoda Kapila , Poggi‐Corradini Pietro
Published: April 2020

The theory of p‐modulus provides a general framework for quantifying the richness of a family of objects on a graph. When applied to the family of spanning trees, p‐modulus has an interesting probabilistic interpretation. In particular, the 2‐modulus problem in this case has been shown to be equivalent to the problem of finding a probability distribution on spanning trees that utilizes the edges of the graph as fairly as possible. In the present work, we use this fact to produce a game‐theoretic interpretation of modulus by employing modulus to solve a secure broadcast
game.
Maternal Glucose Concentrations in Early Pregnancy and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Childhood
Authors: Wahab Rama J. , Voerman Ellis , Jansen Pauline W. , Oei Edwin H.G. , Steegers Eric A.P. , Jaddoe Vincent W.V. , Gaillard Romy
Published: April 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine the associations of maternal early‐pregnancy glucose and insulin concentrations with offspring cardiometabolic risk factors and fat distribution.

Methods

In a population‐based prospective cohort study among 3,737 mothers and their children, random maternal glucose and insulin concentrations were measured at a median gestational age of 13.2 (95% range 10.5‐17.1) weeks. Childhood fat, blood pressure, and blood concentrations of lipids, glucose, and insulin at the age of 10 years were measured.

Results

Higher maternal early‐pregnancy glucose and insulin concentrations were associated with a higher risk of childhood overweight, and higher maternal early‐pregnancy insulin concentrations were associated with an increased childhood risk of clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors (all P < 0.05). These associations were explained by maternal prepregnancy BMI. Independent of maternal prepregnancy BMI, one SD score (SDS) higher maternal early‐pregnancy glucose and insulin concentrations were associated with higher childhood glucose (0.08 SDS, 95% CI: 0.04‐0.11) and insulin concentrations (0.07 SDS, 95% CI: 0.03‐0.10), but not with childhood blood pressure, lipids, and fat measures.

Conclusions

These results suggest that maternal early‐pregnancy random glucose and insulin concentrations are associated with childhood glucose and insulin concentrations but not with other childhood cardiometabolic risk factors.
Baseline Metabolic Variables Do Not Predict Weight Regain in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Martins Catia , Gower Barbara A. , Hunter Gary R.
Published: April 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate whether baseline (pre–weight loss) metabolic variables can predict weight regain.

Methods

About 117 women with overweight completed a weight loss program to achieve BMI < 25 kg/m2 and were followed for 2 years. Resting metabolic rate, respiratory quotient, insulin sensitivity, and serum leptin concentration were measured pre–weight loss, while on energy balance, and as predictors of weight regain at 1 and 2 years. Rate and amount of weight loss also were examined as predictors, as these outcomes may reflect metabolic phenotype.

Results

Average weight loss was 12 (SD 2.5) kg, and regain was 48% (SD 35%) and 80% (SD 52%) at 1 and 2 years, respectively. In regression modeling, metabolic variables (both pre–weight loss and changes with weight loss) did not predict weight regain. However, initial weight loss and time to achieve BMI < 25 were significant predictors of weight regain at 1 and 2 years, even after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions

Baseline (pre–weight loss) resting metabolic rate, respiratory quotient, insulin sensitivity, and leptin did not predict weight regain. However, a larger and faster weight loss was associated with a lower weight regain. Understanding the mechanisms behind interindividual variation in magnitude and rate of weight loss is needed to ensure better weight loss maintenance.
Supramolecular Assembly of Thiophene‐Based Oligomers into Nanostructured Fluorescent Conductive and Chiral Microfibers
Authors: Zangoli Mattia , Di Maria Francesca , Barbarella Giovanna
Published: April 2020

The implementation of nano/microelectronic devices requires efficient strategies for the realization of supramolecular structures with desired function and supported on appropriate substrates. This article illustrates a strategy based on the synthesis of thiophene oligomers having the same “sulfur‐overrich” quaterthiophene inner core (non bonding interactional algorithm) and different terminal groups. Nano/microfibers are formed on surfaces having a morphology independent of the nature of the deposition substrate and displaying a wide tuning of properties that make the fibers optoelectronically suitable for application in devices.
Synergistic flame‐retardant effect of DOPO‐based derivative and organo‐montmorillonite on glass‐fiber‐reinforced polyamide 6 T
Authors: Huang Weijiang , Yan Wei , He Wentao , Wang Kui , Long Lijuan , He Min , Qin Shuhao , Yu Jie
Published: April 2020

Herein, a bridged 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) derivative (PN‐DOPO) in combination with organ‐montmorillonite (OMMT) was used to improve the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of glass‐fiber‐reinforced polyamide 6 T (GFPA6T). The flame retardancy and thermal stabilities of the cured GFPA6T composites were investigated using limiting oxygen index, vertical burning (UL‐94) test, cone calorimeter test, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The morphological analysis and chemical composition of the char residues after cone calorimeter tests were characterized via scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry. The results indicate that 2 wt% OMMT combined with 13 wt% PN‐DOPO in GFPA6T achieved a V‐0 rating in UL‐94 test. The peak heat release rate and total smoke release remarkably decreased with the incorporation of OMMT as compared to those of GFPA6T/15 wt% PN‐DOPO. The TGA results show that the thermal stability and residual mass of the samples effectively increased with the increase in OMMT content. The morphological analysis and composition structure of the residues demonstrate that a small amount of OMMT could help form a more thermally stable and compact char layer during combustion. Also, with the incorporation of OMMT, the layers consisted of more carbon‐silicon and aluminum phosphate char in the condensed phase. Furthermore, GFPA6T/PN‐DOPO/OMMT composites exhibited excellent mechanical properties in terms of flexural modulus, flexural strength, and impact strength than the GFPA6T/PN‐DOPO system. The combination of PN‐DOPO and OMMT has improved the flame retardancy and smoke suppression of GFPA6T without compromising the mechanical properties.
Impaired lung function following e‐cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury in the first cohort of hospitalized adolescents
Authors: Carroll Brian J. , Kim Michael , Hemyari Ali , Thakrar Pooja , Kump Theresa E. , Wade Thomas , De Vela Gabriel , Hall Jaimee , Diaz Christina D. , D'Andrea Lynn A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Beginning June 2019, Children's Wisconsin was the first hospital to identify a cohort of adolescent patients hospitalized with symptoms likely associated with e‐cigarette use. Our report adds to the growing literature describing the radiographic, gross and cytopathologic bronchoscopic findings, and short‐term lung function outcomes in this cohort of adolescents with e‐cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury (EVALI).

Methods

We present 15 adolescents hospitalized from June to September, 2019 with confirmed EVALI. We abstracted data from inpatient hospitalization and first outpatient pulmonary clinic visit.

Results

There were 15 patients (11 male, 12 White) with a mean age of 17.1 years. All patients presented with subacute pulmonary, gastrointestinal and constitutional complaints. Diagnostic workup was guided by the Centers for Disease Control criteria for confirmed EVALI case surveillance. Flexible bronchoscopy was performed in 13/15 patients with 10/13 demonstrating gross pathologic abnormalities. Seven of 15 patients required intensive care and 2 met criteria for pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Patients had dramatic improvement with systemic glucocorticoid therapy and 14/15 were discharged on room air. Eleven patients were seen as outpatients. Despite 11/11 patients reporting resolved or improved symptoms, 7/11 had abnormalities on pulmonary function testing. We initiated inhaled corticosteroids for 5/11 patients and 4/11 patients remained on their corticosteroid wean.

Conclusions and Relevance

We report short‐term outcomes of the first cohort of adolescent patients hospitalized with EVALI. An association is observed between clinical improvement and treatment with systemic corticosteroids. However, residual airway reactivity or diffusion abnormalities persisted when patients were re‐evaluated in the short‐term period (mean 4.5 weeks).
SWATH‐Proteomics of Ibrutinib's Action in Myeloid Leukemia Initiating Mutated G‐CSFR Signaling
Authors: Dwivedi Pankaj , Chutipongtanate Somchai , Muench David E. , Azam Mohammad , Grimes Harry Leighton , Greis Kenneth D.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To evaluate cellular protein changes in response to treatment with an approved drug, ibrutinib, in cells expressing normal or mutated granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor receptor (G‐CSFR). G‐CSFR mutations are associated with some hematological malignancies. Previous studies show the efficacy of ibrutinib (a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor) in mutated G‐CSFR leukemia models but do not address broader signaling mechanisms.

Experimental Design

A label‐free quantitative proteomics workflow to evaluate the cellular effects of ibrutinib treatment is established. This includes three biological replicates of normal and mutated G‐CSFR expressed in a mouse progenitor cell (32D cell line) with and without ibrutinib treatment.

Results

The proteomics dataset shows about 1000 unique proteins quantified with nearly 400 significant changes (p value < 0.05), suggesting a highly dynamic network of cellular signaling in response to ibrutinib. Importantly, the dataset is very robust with coefficients of variation for quantitation at 13.0–20.4% resulting in dramatic patterns of protein differences among the groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

This robust dataset is available for further mining, hypothesis generation, and testing. A detailed understanding of the restructuring of the proteomics signaling cascades by ibrutinib in leukemia biology will provide new avenues to explore its use for other related malignancies.
Conductivity and Phase Transition Study of Sr2+‐Substituted La2Mo1.95V0.05O9–δ
Authors: Tado Gyati Tachang , Pandey Arvind
Published: April 2020

Solution combustion technique is used for synthesizing La2−xSrxMo1.95V0.05O9−δ (x = 0–0.14). The properties of these compounds are investigated via X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. No secondary phases are detected in XRD. Complete suppression of αβ phase transition is evident via RT‐XRD and DSC in all doped compounds. Throughout the temperature regime, conductivity is enhanced compared with parent La2Mo2O9. The conductivity plot reveals an Arrhenius to Vogel–Tammann–Fulcher (VTF) type of temperature‐dependent conduction behavior.
Preclinical safety studies of human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Petrus-Reurer Sandra , Kumar Pankaj , Padrell Sánchez Sara , Aronsson Monica , André Helder , Bartuma Hammurabi , Plaza Reyes Alvaro , Nandrot Emeline F. , Kvanta Anders , Lanner Fredrik
Published: April 2020

As pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-based reparative cell therapies are reaching the bedside, there is a growing need for the standardization of studies concerning safety of the derived products. Clinical trials using these promising strategies are in development, and treatment for age-related macular degeneration is one of the first that has reached patients. We have previously established a xeno-free and defined differentiation protocol to generate functional human embryonic stem cells (hESCs)-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. In this study, we perform preclinical safety studies including karyotype and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to assess genome stability, single-cell RNA sequencing to ensure cell purity, and biodistribution and tumorigenicity analysis to rule out potential migratory or tumorigenic properties of these cells. WGS analysis illustrates that existing germline variants load is higher than the introduced variants acquired through in vitro culture or differentiation, and enforces the importance to examine the genome integrity at a deeper level than just karyotype. Altogether, we provide a strategy for preclinical evaluation of PSC-based therapies and the data support safety of the hESC-RPE cells generated through our in vitro differentiation methodology.

Significance statement This study evaluated the preclinical safety of in vitro differentiated retinal pigment epithelial cells from embryonic stem cells by (a) examining karyotype and performing whole genome sequencing to assess genome stability; (b) performing single-cell RNA sequencing to ensure purity and absence of undifferentiated cells; and (c) examining biodistribution and tumorigenicity of transplanted cells to rule out malignant growth and migratory properties. The derived cells proved to be safe, and this study altogether provided a strategy for preclinical evaluation of PSC-based therapies. Also, the whole genome sequencing analysis illustrates that the preexisting load of germline variants is significantly higher than the introduced variants acquired through vitro culture or differentiation, which enforces the importance to evaluate the genome integrity at a deeper level than just karyotype.
High‐Throughput Characterization of Perovskite Solar Cells for Rapid Combinatorial Screening
Authors: Surmiak Maciej Adam , Zhang Tian , Lu Jianfeng , Rietwyk Kevin James , Raga Sonia Ruiz , McMeekin David Patrick , Bach Udo
Published: April 2020

To discover the ideal perovskite material for solar cell application, a large parameter space (composition, surrounding condition, fabrication technique, etc.) must first be explored. Therefore, screening this parameter space using a rapid combinatorial screening approach can drastically speed up the rate of discovery. During the last decade, these discoveries and optimization processes of perovskite materials have been achieved using simple lab‐scale deposition techniques and characterization methods, resulting in a substantial time‐consuming process, slowing the rate of progress in the field of photovoltaics. Thus, the benefits of developing fully automated, high‐throughput characterization techniques become apparent. Herein, a high‐throughput solar cell testing system that enables parallel, real‐time, and comprehensive measurements is detailed, allowing for 16 solar cells to be characterized simultaneously. The importance of measurement reproducibility, condition verification, and structured data postprocessing is shown.
Recent Development on Controlled Synthesis of Metal Sulfides Hollow Nanostructures via Hard Template Engaged Strategy: A Mini‐Review
Authors: Jin Qian‐Qian , Zhang Chen‐Yang , Wang Wan‐Ni , Chen Ben‐Jin , Ruan Juan , Qian Hai‐Sheng
Published: April 2020

In this mini‐review, we highlighted the recent progresses in the controlled synthesis of metal sulfides hollow nanostructures via hard template technique. After a brief introduction about the formation mechanism of the inorganic hollow nanostructures via hard template technique, the discussions primarily focused on the emerging development of metal sulfides hollow nanostructures. Various synthetic strategies were summarized concerning the use of the hard template engaged strategies to fabricate various metal sulfides hollow nanostructures, such as hydrothermal method, solvothermal method, ion‐exchange, sulfidation or calcination etc. Finally, the perspectives and summaries have been presented to demonstrate that a facile synthetic technique would be widely used to fabricate metal sulfides hollow nanostructures with multi‐shells and components.
Research on constructing sponge city indicator and decision evaluation model with fuzzy multiple criteria method
Authors: Chang Hsueh‐Sheng , Su Qingmu
Published: April 2020

Cities face acute shock like hurricanes and floods, and chronic stresses such as droughts, water shortages, urban floods, and urban using water. How cities can create a development model in which the water and environment can coexist to alleviate the problem with urban water has become a common problem faced by countries or cities. Sponge city construction becomes a possible option to meet these challenges. According to the dimensions of pre‐assessment, this article constructs the sponge city assessment indicator which is divided into three aspects: water ecosystem, socioeconomic system, and institutional and mechanism system; then, the degree of importance and degree of satisfaction are applied as the evaluation framework for the fuzzy multiple criteria to perform the comparison between the government officials and the public regarding the evaluation to analyze group differences. The results are that the difference in the evaluation dimensions between the officials and the public is between 0.8 and 1, but there exists difference in the degree of importance of water management and water use, and in the degree of satisfaction with water development, water efficiency, and mechanism. This result is helpful to find the problems and provide a decision basis for the further exploration.

Practitioner points

Constructed indicators for sponge city construction, which can be used to evaluate stormwater management.

Using fuzzy multiple criteria to compare officials and public can be used as a basis for decision‐making in water management.

Constructed three indicators of sponge city: water ecosystem, socioeconomic system, and institutional and mechanism system.
Towards an International Height Reference Frame Using Clock Networks
Authors: Wu Hu , Müller Jürgen
Published: April 2020

Establishing an International Height Reference Frame (IHRF) has been a major goal of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) for a long time. One challenge is to obtain the vertical coordinates, i.e., geopotential numbers, of the reference stations with high precision and global consistency. A promising approach is using clock networks, which are powerful in precisely obtaining geopotential or height differences between distant sites through measuring the gravitational redshift effect by comparing clocks’ frequencies. We propose a hybrid clock network following a specific hierarchy. It includes stationary clocks as the backbone of the frame and transportable clocks for regional densifications. The vertical coordinates of the clock stations can be straightforwardly referenced to the unique benchmark by various long-distance frequency transfer techniques, like using optical fibers or free-space microwave and laser links via relay satellites. Another practical way towards an IHRF is to unify all local height systems around the world. Clock networks are considered as an alternative to classical geodetic methods. The idea was verified through closed-loop simulations. We found that the measurements acquired by a few 10−18 clocks, three or four in triangular or quadrangular distributions for each local system, are sufficient to adjust the discrepancies between local datums and the systematic slopes within local height networks.
Liouville description of conical defects in dS4, Gibbons-Hawking entropy as modular entropy, and dS3 holography
Authors: Arias Cesar , Diaz Felipe , Olea Rodrigo , Sundell Per
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We model the back-reaction of a static observer in four-dimensional de Sitter spacetime by means of a singular ℤ
q
quotient. The set of fixed points of the ℤ
q
action consists of a pair of codimension two minimal surfaces given by 2-spheres in the Euclidean geometry. The introduction of an orbifold parameter q > 1 permits the construction of an effective action for the bulk gravity theory with support on each of these minimal surfaces. The effective action corresponds to that of Liouville field theory on a 2-sphere with a finite vacuum expectation value of the Liouville field. The intrinsic Liouville theory description yields a thermal Cardy entropy that we reintrepret as a modular free energy at temperature T = q

−1, whereupon the Gibbons-Hawking entropy arises as the corresponding modular entropy. We further observe that in the limit q → ∞ the four-dimensional geometry reduces to that of global dS3 spacetime, where the two original minimal surfaces can be mapped to the future and past infinities of dS3 by means of a double Wick rotation. In this limit, the Liouville theories on the minimal surfaces become boundary theories at zero temperature whose total central charge equals that computed using the dS3/CFT2 correspondence.
Superfield realization of hidden R-symmetry in extended supersymmetric gauge theories and its applications
Authors: Buchbinder I.L. , Ivanov E.A. , Ivanovskiy V.A.
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We present the explicit superfield realizations of the hidden SU(4) and O(5) R-symmetries in 4D,

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 and 5D,

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theories in the harmonic superspace approach. The R-symmetry transformations are constructed and their algebraic structure is studied. It is shown that such transformations are consistent with both manifest and hidden supersymmetry transformations. These symmetries can serve as an alternative tool for constructing the relevant complete low-energy superfield effective actions determined earlier from the hidden supersymmetry considerations.
BMS symmetry of celestial OPE
Authors: Banerjee Shamik , Ghosh Sudip , Gonzo Riccardo
Published: April 2020

Abstract

In this paper we study the BMS symmetry of the celestial OPE of two positive helicity gravitons in Einstein theory in four dimensions. The celestial OPE is obtained by Mellin transforming the scattering amplitude in the (holomorphic) collinear limit. The collinear limit at leading order gives the singular term of the celestial OPE. We compute the first subleading correction to the OPE by analysing the four graviton scattering amplitude directly in Mellin space. The subleading term can be written as a linear combination of BMS descendants with the OPE coefficients determined by BMS algebra and the coefficient of the leading term in the OPE. This can be done by defining a suitable BMS primary state. We find that among the descendants, which appear at the first subleading order, there is one which is created by holomorphic supertranslation with simple pole on the celestial sphere.
Quantum nature of black holes: fast scrambling versus echoes
Authors: Saraswat Krishan , Afshordi Niayesh
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Two seemingly distinct notions regarding black holes have captured the imagination of theoretical physicists over the past decade: first, black holes are conjectured to be fast scramblers of information, a notion that is further supported through connections to quantum chaos and decay of mutual information via AdS/CFT holography. Second, black hole information paradox has motivated exotic quantum structure near horizons of black holes (e.g., gravastars, fuzzballs, or firewalls) that may manifest themselves through delayed gravitational wave echoes in the aftermath of black hole formation or mergers, and are potentially observable by LIGO/Virgo observatories. By studying various limits of charged AdS/Schwarzschild black holes we show that, if properly defined, the two seemingly distinct phenomena happen on an identical timescale of log(Radius)/(π × Temperature). We further comment on the physical interpretation of this coincidence and the corresponding holographic interpretation of black hole echoes.
Charakterisierung teleradiologisch untersuchter Patienten an einem Krankenhaus der Schwerpunktversorgung
Authors: Schreyer Andreas G. , Elgharbawy M. , Dendl L. M. , Rosenberg B. , Menzebach Axel
Published: April 2020

Ziel

Evaluation teleradiologischer Untersuchungen bezüglich der häufigsten Anforderungszeiten, der Häufigkeit angefragter Untersuchungen und klinischer Fragestellungen sowie zusätzlicher Auswertung der Pathologiefrequenz, gegliedert nach Organregionen und Fragestellungen.

Material und Methoden

Retrospektive Analyse der klinischen Angaben, Fragestellungen, untersuchten Organregionen und Diagnosen aller konsekutiven teleradiologischen Computertomographie(CT)-Untersuchungen eines Schwerpunktversorgers aus dem Jahr 2018, der 3 Kliniken der Basis- und Grundversorgung teleradiologisch betreut. Subgruppenanalysen häufiger klinischer Angaben und Befunde nach Organregionen und eine zusätzliche Auswertung des Untersuchungszeitpunktes (Datum und Tageszeit) wurden durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 1207 Fälle aus der teleradiologischen Befundung eingeschlossen. Am häufigsten wurden CT-Untersuchungen des Schädels mit 77,9 % (davon 14,6 % mit Pathologie) durchgeführt, gefolgt von Abdomen mit 14 % (63,9 % pathologisch), Wirbelsäule/Extremitäten mit 8,8 % (50 % pathologisch) und des Thorax mit 7,9 % (53,7 % pathologisch). Die meisten Anforderungen wurden am Wochenende zwischen 8 und 16 Uhr, gefolgt von 16 bis 18 Uhr an Werktagen gestellt. Die geringste Untersuchungsfrequenz lag zwischen 2 und 4 Uhr morgens.

Schlussfolgerung

Teleradiologische CT-Untersuchungen werden vorwiegend zur Abklärung von zerebralen Pathologien durchgeführt, gefolgt von Fragestellungen bezüglich vermuteter Pathologien des Abdomens/Beckens, Skelettsystems und des Thorax. Dabei weist die zerebrale Bildgebung die niedrigste, die Bildgebung von Abdomen/Becken die höchste Pathologie-Inzidenz auf.
Fatigue modeling for wrought magnesium structures with various fatigue parameters and the concept of highly strained volume
Authors: Nischler A. , Denk J. , Huber O.
Published: April 2020

Mechanical fatigue tests of unnotched, notched, and bending twin-roll cast AZ31B magnesium alloy specimens are performed in which strain fields are analyzed with digital image correlation. Clearly, delimited macroscopic bands of twinned grains (BTGs) in which the compressive strain is significantly higher compared to the adjacent regions are observed. Conventional fatigue parameters, e.g., the strain amplitude, exhibited higher values within the BTGs. This findings are confirmed by the fact that for all investigated specimens the initial macroscopic cracks are observed within the BTGs. Consequently, for the presented concept of highly strained volume, fatigue parameters are determined from the highly strained regions with high strain amplitudes. This paper focuses on the application of the effective strain amplitude fatigue parameter decomposed in an elastic and plastic portion, the Smith-Watson-Topper fatigue parameter and energy-based fatigue parameters within the concept of highly strained volume. An extended stress–strain hysteresis model is presented to compute stress–strain hystereses for arbitrary load ratios, required to determine the mentioned fatigue parameters. The application and evaluation of five different fatigue parameters within the concept of highly strained volume demonstrates the accurate description of the fatigue life until failure.
Effect of conditioning and test stimulus intensity on cortical excitability using triad-conditioning transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Hassan Shady Safwat , Trenado Carlos , Rageh Tarek Ali , Schnitzler Alfons , Groiss Stefan Jun
Published: April 2020

Cortical facilitation assessed with triad conditioning transcranial magnetic stimulation has been termed triad-conditioned facilitation (TCF). TCF has been supposed to reflect increased intracortical facilitation (ICF) at short interstimulus intervals (ISI) around 10 ms and an intrinsic rhythm of the motor cortex at longer ISI around 25 ms. To gain further insight into the pathophysiological mechanism of TCF, we systematically studied the effect of suprathreshold conditioning stimulus (CS) and test stimulus (TS) intensity on TCF. Various CS intensities and TS intensities were used in a triad-conditioning paradigm that was applied to 11 healthy subjects. ISI between pulses were studied between 5 and 200 ms. TCF at 10 ms ISI enhanced with increasing CS intensity but decreased with increasing TS intensity. The duration of facilitation was longer with higher CS intensity. However, TCF at 25 ms ISI could not be elicited with none of the CS and TS intensities addressed here. Our results are consistent with the notion of TCF at short ISI reflecting ICF. The enhanced and prolonged facilitation with increase of CS without additional isolated facilitation at longer ISI suggest a prolongation of ICF.
Use of Direct Liver Stiffness Measurement in Evaluating the Severity of Liver Cirrhosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Gu Jin , Zhang Erlei , Liang Binyong , Zhang Zunyi , Long Xin , Xiang Shuai , Wang Wenqiang , Chen Xiaoping , Huang Zhiyong
Published: April 2020

Background

Severity of liver cirrhosis plays an important role in determining the safe extents of hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to investigate whether direct liver stiffness measurement can help surgeons to evaluate the severity of liver cirrhosis in HCC patients.

Methods

Overall, 119 HCC patients who underwent open hepatectomy were retrospectively studied. The severity of liver cirrhosis was histologically staged using the Laennec staging system. Direct liver stiffness measurement was performed during operation using a sclerometer device named LX‐C Shaw hardmeter, and its efficacy in assessing the severity of liver cirrhosis was compared with that of transient elastography (TE) and cirrhotic severity scoring (CSS) previously proposed by our team.

Results

Liver stiffness measured by LX‐C Shaw hardmeter was significantly correlated with the severity of liver cirrhosis. Spearman correlation coefficients for the correlation between the severity of liver cirrhosis and direct liver stiffness measurement, TE, and CSS were 0.751, 0.454, and 0.705, respectively (all P < 0.001). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of direct liver stiffness measurement were 0.891 for moderate cirrhosis and 0.944 for severe cirrhosis and superior to those of TE (0.735 and 0.776, respectively) and CSS (0.888 and 0.905, respectively).

Conclusions

Direct liver stiffness measurement is a useful method in evaluating the severity of liver cirrhosis in HCC patients.
Moyamoya angiopathy: radiological follow-up findings in Finnish patients
Authors: Savolainen Marika , Pekkola Johanna , Mustanoja Satu , Tyni Tiina , Hernesniemi Juha , Kivipelto Leena , Tatlisumak Turgut
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

Moyamoya angiopathy (MMA) is a chronic progressive disorder, but imaging changes observed over time are not yet characterized in European populations. We analyzed the progression of MMA with magnetic resonance imaging and angiography (MRI and MRA) in our Finnish MMA registry. Stage classification based on MRA findings was used to evaluate the progress of the disease.

Methods

32 patients with MMA were evaluated with MRI and MRA and compared to previous imaging. The follow-up imaging was done 103 (range 6–380) months after the MMA diagnosis, and 64 (range 6–270) months after the previous imaging. We graded the disease stage according to the previously described MRA grading scale.

Results

No acute lesions, including silent ischemic strokes were found in the follow-up image compared to latest available previous image. One patient had an asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage since the last imaging. Ivy sign was observed in 22% of the patients in the follow-up image. Six percent (n = 2) had microhemorrhages and 9% (n = 3) white matter lesions in the follow-up imaging. The MRA grade was evaluated from the follow-up images and it was 3 and 2.5 points (right and left, respectively). Fifty-six percent (n = 18) had old ischemic lesions in the follow-up image. Majority (71%) of the old ischemic lesions were large anterior circulation infarcts.

Conclusions

A slow progression of MMA-related changes on MRI/MRA was found, being in line with our previous reports suggesting a rather benign course of the disease in the Finnish population.
Non-cross-linked biological mesh in complex abdominal wall hernia: a cohort study
Authors: Kaufmann Ruth , Isemer Friedrich-Eckart , Strey Christoph W. , Jeekel Johannes , Lange Johan F. , Woeste Guido
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Complex abdominal wall hernia repair (CAWHR) is a challenging procedure. Mesh prosthesis is indicated, but the use of synthetic mesh in a contaminated area may add to overall morbidity. Biological meshes may provide a solution, but little is known about long-term results. The aim of our study was to evaluate clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction following Strattice™ (PADM) placement.

Methods

In this cohort study, all patients operated for CAWHR with PADM in three large community hospitals in Germany were included. Patients underwent abdominal examination, an ultrasound was performed, and patients completed quality-of-life questionnaires. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov under Identifier NCT02168231.

Results

Twenty-seven patients were assessed (14 male, age 67.5 years, follow-up 42.4 months). The most frequent postoperative complication was wound infection (39.1%). In no case, the PADM had to be removed. Four patients had passed away. During outpatient clinic visit, six out of 23 patients (26.1%) had a recurrence of hernia, one patient had undergone reoperation. Five patients (21.7%) had bulging of the abdominal wall. Quality-of-life questionnaires revealed that patients judged their scar with a median 3.5 out of 10 points (0 = best) and judged their restrictions during daily activities with a median of 0 out of 10.0 (0 = no restriction).

Conclusions

Despite a high rate of wound infection, no biological mesh had to be removed. In some cases, therefore, the biological meshes provided a safe way out of desperate clinical situations. Both the recurrence rate and the amount of bulging are high (failure rate 47.8%). The reported quality of life is good after repair of these complex hernias.
Helping a robot to understand human actions and objects: a grammatical view
Authors: Wörgötter Florentin , Tamosiunaite Minija
Published: April 2020

Humans are able to perform a wide variety of complex actions manipulating a very large number of objects. We can make predictions on the outcome of our actions and on how to use different objects. Hence, we have excellent action and object understanding. Artificial agents, on the other hand, still miserably fail in this respect. It is particularly puzzling how inexperienced, young humans can acquire such knowledge; bootstrapped by exploration and extended by supervision. In this study we have, therefore, addressed the question how to structure the realm of actions and objects into dynamic representations, which allow for the easy learning of different action and object concepts. Performing different manipulation actions on a table top (e.g. the actions of “making a breakfast”), we show with our robots that this will indeed lead to some kind of implicit (un-reflected) understanding of action and object concepts allowing the agent to generalize actions and redefine object uses according to need.
Corona-Krise: (Wirtschafts-)politische Perspektiven
Authors: Fritsche Jan Philipp , Harms Patrick Christian
Published: April 2020

Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Epidemiologie warnte, dass die Zahl der COVID-19-Fälle schon bald die Kapazität des Gesundheitssystems übersteigen könnte. In Deutschland und weltweit droht eine schwere Rezession aufgrund eines externen Schocks. Mögliche Szenarien zur Bekämpfung der Krise zeigen, dass drastische Maßnahmen zur Eindämmung des Virus die beste Lösung für die Krise bleiben. Die Entwicklungen unterscheiden sich fundamental von denen der globalen Finanzkrise 2008. Während der Euroraum in Bezug auf Liquiditäts- und Finanzhilfen für Unternehmen und Staaten bereits besser gewappnet ist als noch 2009, fehlt die Praxis in der Zusammenarbeit von Gesundheitsforschung und Wirtschaftspolitik. Maßnahmen auf der Nachfrageseite werden die Epidemie kurzfristig nicht heilen. Eine koordinierte Finanzpolitik und gemeinsame europäische Anleihen können vor allem gefährdete Staaten schützen.
Transposon vector-mediated stable gene transfer for the accelerated establishment of recombinant mammalian cell pools allowing for high-yield production of biologics
Authors: Tschorn Natalie , Berg Karen , Stitz Jörn
Published: April 2020

Stable recombinant mammalian cells are of growing importance in pharmaceutical biotechnology production scenarios for biologics such as monoclonal antibodies, growth and blood factors, cytokines and subunit vaccines. However, the establishment of recombinant producer cells using classical stable transfection of plasmid DNA is hampered by low stable gene transfer efficiencies. Consequently, subsequent selection of transgenic cells and the screening of clonal cell populations are time- and thus cost-intensive. To overcome these limitations, expression cassettes were embedded into transposon-derived donor vectors. Upon the co-transfection with transposase-encoding constructs, elevated vector copy numbers stably integrated into the genomes of the host cells are readily achieved facilitating under stringent selection pressure the establishment of cell pools characterized by sustained and high-yield recombinant protein production. Here, we discuss some aspects of transposon vector technologies, which render these vectors promising candidates for their further utilization in the production of biologics.
SOLACE: A Psychosocial Stigma Protection Intervention to Improve the Mental Health of Parents of Autistic Children—A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Lodder Annemarie , Papadopoulos Chris , Randhawa Gurch
Published: April 2020

This study presents findings from a feasibility trial, testing an 8-week psychosocial stigma protection intervention (SOLACE) designed to improve the mental health of parents of autistic children. Seventeen parents were stratified then randomly assigned to either SOLACE (n = 9) or control group (n = 8). Retention and adherence rates were excellent with minimal missing data suggesting SOLACE had good acceptability and feasibility. Quantitative analysis revealed that mental health scores had significantly improved for those who took part in SOLACE compared to no significant changes for control group participants. In addition, changes in secondary outcome measures (e.g. stigma, self-esteem and self-compassion) were in favour of SOLACE. Focus group interviews revealed that SOLACE was acceptable to parents. Results suggest that a full randomised controlled trial is warranted.
Microstructural effects on central crack formation in hot cross-wedge-rolled high-strength steel parts
Authors: Zhou Xianyan , Shao Zhutao , Tian Famin , Hopper Christopher , Jiang Jun
Published: April 2020

Central cracking in cross-wedge-rolled workpieces results in high wastage and economic loss. Recent cross-wedge rolling tests on two batches of steel showed that one batch formed central cracks, while the other was crack-free. The batches were both nominally of the same chemical composition and thermomechanical treatment history. In addition, both batches had passed all the standard quality assessments set for conventional forging processes. It was suspected that the different cracking behaviours were due to differences in microstructure between the two as-received steel billets, and the material in cross-wedge rolling (CWR) was more sensitive to the initial microstructure compared with other forging processes due to its specific loading condition including ostensibly compression and large plastic strain. Nevertheless, no previous study of this important problem could be identified. The aim of this study is, therefore, to identify the key microstructural features determining the central crack formation behaviour in CWR. The hot workability of the as-received billets was studied under uniaxial tensile conditions using a Gleeble 3800 test machine. Scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction was applied to characterise, quantitatively analyse, and compare the chemical composition, phase, grain, and inclusions in these two billets, both at room temperature and also at the CWR temperature (1080 °C). Non-metallic inclusions (oxides, sulphides, and silicates) in the billets were determined to be the main cause of the reported central cracking problem. The ductility of the steels at both room and elevated temperatures deteriorated markedly in the presence of the large volumes of inclusions. Grain boundary embrittlement occurred at the CWR temperature due to the aggregation of inclusions along the grain boundaries. It is suggested that a standard on specifying the inclusion quantity and size in CWR billets be established to produce crack-free products.
Psychological Model of Phonosemantics
Authors: Agrawal Pramod Kumar
Published: April 2020

Phonosemantics is a school of thought which believes that each sound or phoneme carries a specific psychological impression allotted by nature. And these psychological impressions were used to evolve different languages. Work has been done on this ground, but there is still scope for further research into the subject. The paper presents a new hypothesis, explaining the psychological representations of all the important IPA alphabets. The paper proposes a model of psychological mind, on which all the basic phonemes are placed, enabling us to understand the basic relationship between psychological semantic values and their phonetic values. To prove the correctness of the allocation, the paper applies these semantic features to 245 words of different languages, along with some additional evidences. The paper resolves the confusion regarding the same name for different objects, different names for the same object, the question of arbitrariness, and other queries raised by modern linguists.