bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective vs stepwise removal of deep carious lesions in primary molars: 24 months follow-up from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elhennawy Karim , Finke Christian , Paris Sebastian , Reda Seif , Jost-Brinkmann Paul-Georg , Schwendicke Falk
Published: August 2020

Objectives

For well-defined deep (> 2/3 dentin extension) carious lesions, selective (SE) or stepwise (SW) carious tissue removals have been recommended, while there is limited comparative evidence for both. We compared SE and SW over 24 months in a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

A two-arm superiority trial was conducted comparing SW/SE in primary molars without pulpal symptoms but well-defined deep lesions. Seventy-four children (1 molar/child) aged 3–9 years were recruited. In a first step, peripheral carious tissue was removed until hard dentin remained, while in proximity to the pulp, leathery dentin was left. An adhesive compomer restoration was placed and restorations re-examined after 6 months. In SW, re-entry and removal to firm dentin was conducted pulpo-proximally, followed by re-restoration. Molars were re-evaluated for a total of 24 months. Our primary outcome was success (absence of restorative/endodontic complications or pulp exposures). Secondary outcomes included total treatment and opportunity costs and restoration quality, assessed using modified USPHS criteria.

Results

After 24 months, 63 molars (31 SE, 32 SW) were re-assessed. Four failures occurred (2 exposures in SW; 2 pulpal complications in SE, 1 of them leading to extraction, p > 0.05). Restoration integrity was satisfying in both groups (USPHS A/B/C in 21/8/0 SE and 23/7/0 SW, p > 0.05). Treatment and opportunity costs were significantly higher in SW than SE (mean 171 ± 51 vs. 106 ± 90; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

After 2 years, SE and SW showed similar efficacy for managing deep carious lesions in primary molars. The higher costs for SW should be considered during decision-making.

Clinical significance

In primary molars with well-defined deep carious lesions SE was less costly and similarly efficacious like SW. From a cost and applicability perspective, SW may need to be indicated restrictively, e.g., for very deep (> 3/4 dentin extension) lesions only.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02232828
Discrete element modelling of two-layered ballast in a box test
Authors: Li Huiqi , McDowell Glenn
Published: August 2020

It has been recently reported that ballast comprising differently graded layers helps to reduce track settlement. The main goal of this paper is to provide micro mechanical insight about how the differently layered ballasts reduce the settlement by employing DEM and thus propose an optimum design for two-layered ballast. The DEM simulations provide sufficient evidence that the two-layered ballast works by preventing particles from moving laterally through interlocking of the particles at the interface of the different layers in a similar way to geogrid. By plotting the lateral force acting on the side boundary as a function of the distance to the base, it is found that the walls in the region of 60–180 mm above the base always support the largest lateral forces and therefore this region might be the best location for an interface layer. However, considering the weak improvement in performance by increasing the thickness of the layer of scaled (small) ballast from 100 to 200 mm, it is suggested that it is best to use the sample comprising 100 mm scaled ballast on top of 200 mm standard ballast as the most cost effective solution.
Clinical performance of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography in pre-surgical evaluation of breast malignant lesions in dense breasts: a single center study
Authors: Bozzini Anna , Nicosia Luca , Pruneri Giancarlo , Maisonneuve Patrick , Meneghetti Lorenza , Renne Giuseppe , Vingiani Andrea , Cassano Enrico , Mastropasqua Mauro Giuseppe
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, with ultrasound, full field digital mammography and magnetic resonance imaging in detection and size estimation of histologically proven breast tumors.

Methods

This open-label, single center, prospective study, included 160 dense breast women with at least one suspicious mammary lesion evaluated by ultrasound, full field digital mammography and magnetic resonance imaging in whom a mammary tumor was histologically proven after surgery performed at the European Institute of Oncology between January 2013 and December 2015. Following the complete diagnostic procedure, the patients were further investigated by contrast-enhanced spectral mammography prior to surgery.

Results

Overall, the detection rate of malignant breast lesions (in situ and invasive) was 93.8% (165/176) for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, 94.4% (168/178) for ultrasound, 85.5 (147/172) for full field digital mammography and 97.7% (173/177) for magnetic resonance imaging. Radiological measurements were concordant with the post-surgical pathological measurements of the invasive tumor (i.e., within 5 mm) in: 64.6% for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, 62.0% for ultrasound, 45.2% for full field digital mammography (p < 0.0001) and 69.9% for magnetic resonance imaging (p = 0.28); underestimated in: 17.4% for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, 19.6% for ultrasound, 24.2% for full field digital mammography (p = 0.03) and 6.7% for magnetic resonance imaging (p = 0.0005); and overestimated in: 16.2% for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, 16.6% for ultrasound, 16.6% for full field digital mammography and 22.7% for magnetic resonance imaging (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that contrast-enhanced spectral mammography improves on full field digital mammography and is comparable to ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in terms of detection sensitivity and size estimation of malignant lesions in dense breasts.
Earth Observation for Crustal Tectonics and Earthquake Hazards
Authors: Elliott J. R. , de Michele M. , Gupta H. K.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we illustrate some of the current methods for the exploitation of data from Earth Observing satellites to measure and understand earthquakes and shallow crustal tectonics. The aim of applying such methods to Earth Observation data is to improve our knowledge of the active fault sources that generate earthquake shaking hazards. We provide examples of the use of Earth Observation, including the measurement and modelling of earthquake deformation processes and the earthquake cycle using both radar and optical imagery. We also highlight the importance of combining these orbiting satellite datasets with airborne, in situ and ground-based geophysical measurements to fully characterise the spatial and timescale of temporal scales of the triggering of earthquakes from an example of surface water loading. Finally, we conclude with an outlook on the anticipated shift from the more established method of observing earthquakes to the systematic measurement of the longer-term accumulation of crustal strain.
The Well-Worn Book and the reading child: cultural and cognitive aspects of materiality in German children’s literature
Authors: Hombrecher Hartmut , Wassiltschenko Judith
Published: August 2020

Children’s books often feature complex material aspects. Despite that fact, little research has been done on questions of materiality in children’s and youth books. The article aims at outlining the field of the materiality of historical German-language children’s books. By analyzing historical author’s pedagogical statements as well as the design of historical children’s and youth fiction, the article summarizes different approaches concerning the materiality of children’s books. Based on the historical development and the generic study on how children modify the materiality of their books, the article further investigates the book-as-object and emphasizes the child’s point of view by scrutinizing the adult-culture book-toy distinction. It will become apparent that the specific forms of children’s book reception emerge since the materiality of the book and its exploration present a new embodied experience. The specific reception forms can be embedded into a semiotic model of the text-reader interaction in reference to Roland Barthes’ concept of écriture and scription.
Information needs and patient perceptions of the quality of medication information available in hospitals: a mixed method study
Authors: Bekker Charlotte L. , Mohsenian Naghani Shaghayegh , Natsch Stephanie , Wartenberg Naomi S. , van den Bemt Bart J. F.
Published: August 2020

Background Providing appropriate medication information to patients is of utmost importance for optimal pharmacotherapy. (Un)intentional miscommunication and information gaps resulting in unmet needs could negatively affect patient’s ability to use their medication properly. Objective To identify the information needs and patient perceptions of the quality of medication information available in hospitals in the Netherlands. Setting Cardiology, oncology, or rheumatology department of five hospitals. Methods Adult cardiology, oncology, and rheumatology patients participated in this mixed-method study. Focus groups and individual interviews were held to identify patients’ views on the medication information and their information needs. Outcomes were used to construct a questionnaire that was used in a survey among patients to compare existing medication information with patients’ needs, and to judge the quality of the provided information. Main outcome measure Patients needs with medication information. Results Four themes derived from interviews with 44 patients: (1) Content; almost all patients acknowledged to receive insufficient information not meeting their personal needs. (2) Moment of delivery; patients were dissatisfied with the timing. (3) Method of delivery; patients highly preferred verbal and written information. (4) Contextual quality prerequisites that should be met according to patients; medication information should be accessible, comprehensive, reliable and understandable. A total of 352 patients completed the questionnaire. Almost all patients reported all items as important, whereas up to 74.6% patients were not informed. Up to half of the patients perceived verbal information from healthcare providers, written information of leaflets and folders of insufficient quality. Conclusion Patients attending Dutch hospitals have needs for extensive medication information, which should be tailored to their individual needs. According to patients the quality of medication information available in hospitals can be improved.
Board busyness and new insights into alternative bank dividends models
Authors: Trinh Vu Quang , Elnahass Marwa , Salama Aly
Published: August 2020

This study examines the possible opposing effects of the board function of busyness (i.e. the presence of busy independent non-executive directors serving on multiple boards) on bank dividend payout patterns between two alternative payouts models (i.e. conventional and Islamic). Using an international sample for listed banks during the periods of 2006–2018, we show that the busyness of boards of directors can explain differential dividend payouts behaviour between two banking systems. For conventional banking dividend model, a busy board has a significantly positive impact on the bank’s dividend payout level. However, during the financial crisis of 2007/2009, the positive impact of board busyness on dividends payouts is tempered for these banks. In contrast, Islamic banks operating under a more constrained dividend model, report significantly lower levels of payouts and lower likelihood when they have busy directors on board. We find insignificant evidence for the effect of the financial crisis in Islamic banks. These results highlight a potential challenge for the unique agency conflicts arising from the complex payout model of Islamic banks (in terms of profit distribution principles, motives, mechanics and techniques, and flexibility of payouts), which is subject to the demand for greater monitoring and additional rulings when compared to the conventional.
Design and flight test of a linear parameter varying flight controller
Authors: Weiser Christian , Ossmann Daniel , Looye Gertjan
Published: August 2020

Future aircraft generations require improved performance and efficiency to enable a reduced environmental footprint. To acquire this goal, for example new material and wing concepts are perused at the moment by the aircraft industry. These developments, which include aspects such as over-actuation and lowly damped flexible modes, give rise to more complex, multi-objective control problems. One candidate method, which delivers a solution to these problems for the whole flight envelope, is linear parameter varying (LPV) control. It naturally incorporates the controller scheduling in the synthesis process, guarantees stability and robustness over the entire parameter envelope, and enables intuitive multi-objective, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) controller designs. This paper proves the concept of LPV control in practice: The paper presents and discusses the LPV controller design process, simulation results, motion simulator test and finally, the in-flight validation of the control system on a Cessna Citation II aircraft. The developed inner loop controller structures are inspired by classical flight controllers used on state-of-the-art fly-by-wire airliners. The longitudinal aircraft motion is augmented with load-factor command and the lateral motion controller features a roll rate command with attitude hold behavior. The control laws are validated in flight by automated and actual pilot inputs with respect to functionality, flying and handling qualities. Test results are encouraging with the provided key findings and lessons learned aiming to provide a simplification for future LPV flight controller development and testing campaigns.
Sustained-Release Nanocapsules Enable Long-Lasting Stabilization of Li Anode for Practical Li-Metal Batteries
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Xu Yifei , Wang Jianghao , Zhao Bo , Li Zijian , Wu Hao Bin
Published: August 2020

A robust solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) enabled by electrolyte additive is a promising approach to stabilize Li anode and improve Li cycling efficiency. However, the self-sacrificial nature of SEI forming additives limits their capability to stabilize Li anode for long-term cycling. Herein, we demonstrate nanocapsules made from metal–organic frameworks for sustained release of LiNO3 as surface passivation additive in commercial carbonate-based electrolyte. The nanocapsules can offer over 10 times more LiNO3 than the solubility of LiNO3. Continuous supply of LiNO3 by nanocapsules forms a nitride-rich SEI layer on Li anode and persistently remedies SEI during prolonged cycling. As a result, lifespan of thin Li anode in 50 μm, which experiences drastic volume change and repeated SEI formation during cycling, has been notably improved. By pairing with an industry-level thick LiCoO2 cathode, practical Li-metal full cell demonstrates a remarkable capacity retention of 90% after 240 cycles, in contrast to fast capacity drop after 60 cycles in LiNO3 saturated electrolyte.
Multi-megabar Dynamic Strength Measurements of Ta, Au, Pt, and Ir
Authors: Brown J. L. , Davis J.-P. , Seagle C. T.
Published: August 2020

Magnetic loading was used to shocklessly compress four different metals to extreme pressures. Velocimetry monitored the behavior of the material as it was loaded to a desired peak state and then decompressed back down to lower pressures. Two distinct analysis methods, including a wave profile analysis and a novel Bayesian calibration approach, were employed to estimate quantitative strength metrics associated with the loading reversal. Specifically, we report for the first time on strength estimates for tantalum, gold, platinum, and iridium under shockless compression at strain rates of $$\sim 5 \times 10^5$$

∼
5
×

10
5

/s in the pressure range of $$\sim $$
∼
100–400 GPa. The magnitude of the shear stresses supported by the different metals under these extreme conditions are surprisingly similar, representing a dramatic departure from ambient conditions.
Schilddrüsenfunktionsstörungen unter Immuncheckpoint-Inhibitor-Therapie
Authors: Theiler-Schwetz Verena , Trummer Christian , Richtig Erika , Richtig Georg , Pilz Stefan
Published: August 2020

Schilddrüsenfunktionsstörungen gehören zu den häufigsten endokrinen Nebenwirkungen, die unter einer Immuncheckpoint-Inhibitor-Therapie auftreten können. Sie sind unter Anti-PD-1- („Anti-programmed cell death 1“) häufiger als unter Anti-CTLA-4-Antikörpern („Anti-Cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-antigen-4“), und die Inzidenz steigt mit einer Kombinationstherapie an. Pathophysiologisch scheint eine destruktive Thyreoiditis ähnlich einer Postpartum-Thyreoiditis vorzuliegen, im Rahmen derer es meistens zu einer kurzen Hyperthyreosephase kommt, gefolgt von einer Hypo- oder Euthyreose. Auch die Entwicklung einer alleinigen Hypothyreose ist möglich.

Therapeutisch steht Observanz der Hyperthyreose im Vordergrund mit Einsatz einer Betablocker-Therapie, wenn eine symptomatische Therapie erforderlich ist. Der Einsatz von Glukokortikoiden oder Thyreostatika ist nicht sinnvoll. Bei Entwicklung einer symptomatischen Hypothyreose mit einem TSH (Thyroidea-stimulierendes Hormon) von 5–10 μU/ml oder einem TSH > 10 μU/ml sollte unabhängig von der Symptomatik eine Levothyroxin-Therapie eingeleitet werden.

Aufgrund der häufig oligo- oder asymptomatischen klinischen Präsentation sollte ein regelmäßiges Screening auf Schilddrüsenfunktionsstörungen und Hypophysitis, beginnend vor Immuntherapieeinleitung und hiernach monatlich in den ersten 6 Monaten, durchgeführt werden inkl. TSH, freiem Trijodthyronin (fT3), freiem Thyroxin (fT4), Cortisol und adrenokortikotropem Hormon (ACTH). Nach den ersten 6 Monaten können die Kontrollintervalle ausgeweitet werden. Die Entwicklung von Schilddrüsenfunktionsstörungen sollte in der Regel nicht zu einer Unterbrechung der Immuntherapie führen, da diese häufig transient, mild und einfach behandelbar sind.
Role of Personal Protective Measures in Prevention of COVID-19 Spread Among Physicians in Bangladesh: a Multicenter Cross-Sectional Comparative Study
Authors: Khalil Md. Musab , Alam Md Mashiul , Arefin Mostafa Kamal , Chowdhury Mamunur Rashid , Huq Muhammad Rezeul , Chowdhury Joybaer Anam , Khan Ahad Mahmud
Published: August 2020

This study aims to determine the role of personal protective measures in the prevention of COVID-19 spread among the physicians working at different health facilities in Bangladesh. This hospital-based cross-sectional comparative study was conducted from May to June 2020. A total of 98 COVID-19 positive physicians and 92 COVID-19 negative physicians (physicians with no symptoms of COVID-19 or who tested negative) were enrolled. The questionnaire was adapted from a tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for risk assessment and management of exposure of healthcare workers in the context of COVID-19. Data were collected from the respondents online using Google forms. There was no significant difference in baseline information between COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 negative physicians. The physicians, who were unaware of direct participation in COVID-19 patient care, had higher odds of being COVID-19 positive (OR = 4.018; CI: 1.532–10.535). Additionally, the physicians, who were unaware of the COVID-19 status while performing the aerosol-generated procedure (AGP), had a higher chance of being COVID-19 positive (OR = 2.522; CI: 1.020–6.233). Using face shields/goggles (OR = 0.437; CI:0.228–0.837) and regular decontamination of the patient’s surroundings (OR = 0.392; CI:0.176–0.873) while usual take care of patients and use of N95 masks while performing AGP (OR = 0.372; CI:0.159–0.873) had protective roles against COVID-19 among the physicians. The physicians who had reused the medical gown had two times more chances of being tested positive for COVID-19 than those who had not reused it (OR = 2.3; CI:1.251–4.259). The use of face shields/goggles and N95 masks and decontamination of the patient’s surroundings may give protection against COVID-19. Additionally, reusing medical gowns should be avoided as much as possible.
Effect of Gene Mutation on Seizures in Surgery for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Chivukula Srinivas , Modiri Omeed , Kashanian Alon , Babayan Diana , Ibrahim George M. , Weil Alexander G. , Tu Albert , Wu Joyce Y. , Mathern Gary W. , Fallah Aria
Published: August 2020

Background:

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder that commonly leads to drug-resistant epilepsy in affected patients. This study aimed to determine whether the underlying genetic mutation (TSC1 vs. TSC2) predicts seizure outcomes following surgical treatments for epilepsy.

Methods:

We retrospectively assessed TSC patients using the TSC Natural History Database core registry. Data review focused on outcomes in patients treated with surgical resection or vagus nerve stimulation.

Results:

A total of 42 patients with a TSC1 mutation, and 145 patients with a TSC2 mutation, were identified. We observed a distinct clinical phenotype: children with TSC2 mutations tended to be diagnosed with TSC at a younger age than those with a TSC1 mutation (p < 0.001), were more likely to have infantile spasms (p < 0.001), and to get to surgery at a later age (p = 0.003). Among this TSC2 cohort, seizure control following resective epilepsy surgery was achieved in less than half (47%) the study sample. In contrast, patients with TSC1 mutations tended to have more favorable postsurgical outcomes; seizure control was achieved in 66% of this group.

Conclusion:

TSC2 mutations result in a more severe epilepsy phenotype that is also less responsive to resective surgery. It is important to consider this distinct clinical disposition when counseling families preoperatively with respect to seizure freedom. Larger samples are required to better characterize the independent effects of genetic mutation, infantile spasms, and duration of epilepsy as they relate to seizure control following resective or neuromodulatory epilepsy surgery.
Jon Gotzon's syncretic bilingual parody: Pushing the boundaries of ‘authentic’ Basque
Authors: Elordui Agurtzane
Published: August 2020

In normative, academic, and informative works on Basque there are constant debates on the boundaries of what is meant by ‘authentic Basque’ and, alongside that, by ‘authentic Basque speaker’. In the current Basque media, these tensions are often addressed by means of creative practices, as in other minority contexts, by means of satire and other forms of humour, especially parody. In this work my subject is the character Jon Gotzon, who engages in parody on the radio programme Gaztea. Jon Gotzon is a hyperbolic and parodic stylisation of a new Basque speaker. He challenges ‘authentic’ and ‘native’ Basque-speaking styles in his syncretic bilingual stylisation and parodic discourse. In this research, I study the way this parody takes advantages of carnivalesque strategies in order to question fixed ideological hierarchies on Basqueness, and I explore the ideological positions Jon Gotzon's parody reveals, especially with respect to hybrid identities in the Basque community. (Parody, stylisation, authenticity, minority media, Basque, humour)*
‘Agitate, educate, organise’: partisanship, popular music and the Northern Ireland conflict
Authors: Campbell Sean
Published: August 2020

This article explores popular-musical invocations of the Northern Ireland conflict (1968–1998), focussing specifically on the period between the IRA hunger strike of 1981 and the British Government's Broadcasting Act in 1988. Whilst most songs addressed to the ‘Troubles’ were marked by (lyrical) abstraction and (political) non-alignment, this period witnessed a series of efforts that issued upfront and partisan views. The article explores two such instances – by That Petrol Emotion and Easterhouse – addressing each band's respective views as well as the specific performance strategies that they deployed in staging their interventions. Drawing on original interviews that the author has conducted with the musicians – alongside extensive archival research of print and audio/visual media – the article explores the bands’ songs in conjunction with salient ancillary media (such as record sleeves, videos and interviews), yielding a more nuanced account of popular music's engagement with the ‘Troubles’ than has been offered in existing work (which often assumes the form of broad surveys).
Periconceptional use of cod liver oil, a vitamin D source, could decrease the risk of CHD in offspring
Authors: Zhao Anda , Zhao Kena , Xia Yuanqing , Yin Yong , Zhu Jianzhen , Hong Haifa , Li Shenghui
Published: August 2020

Objective:

To explore if there is association between vitamin D supplementation through cod liver oil ingestion around the periconceptional period and the risk of developing severe CHD in offspring. Furthermore, we would examine the interaction between vitamin D and folic acid supplementation in the association.

Methods:

A case–control study was conducted in Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, in which, a total of 262 severe CHD cases versus 262 controls were recruited through June 2016 to December 2017. All children were younger than 2 years. To reduce potential selection bias and to minimise confounding effects, propensity score matching was applied.

Results:

After propensity score matching, vitamin D supplementation seemed to be associated with decreased odds ratio of severe CHD (odds ratio = 0.666; 95% confidence intervals: 0.449–0.990) in the multivariable conditional logistic analysis. Furthermore, we found an additive interaction between vitamin D and folic acid supplementation (relative excess risk due to interaction = 0.810, 95% confidence intervals: 0.386–1.235) in the association.

Conclusion:

The results suggested that maternal vitamin D supplementation could decrease the risk of offspring severe CHD; moreover, it could strengthen the protective effect of folic acid. The significance of this study lies in providing epidemiological evidence that vitamin D supplementation around the periconceptional period could be a potential nutritional intervention strategy to meet the challenge of increasing CHD.
Beyond striae cutis: A case report on how physical skin complaints unveiled end-of-life total experience
Authors: Julião Miguel , Calçada Paula , Macias Vasco Coelho , Mendes-Bastos Pedro
Published: August 2020

Background

End-of-life is a unique and multidimensional experience, and physical complaints can reveal other areas of distress.

Method

A case report of a woman with terminal cancer with painful and deforming skin striae cared by a multidisciplinary team.

Results

After initially treating her physical pain, other end-of-life psychosocial, spiritual, and existential aspects could be addressed.

Significance of results

Physical distress can unveil other essential areas of end-of-life experience when multidisciplinary teams caring for the terminally ill patients use holistic approaches.
Aneurysms and dissections - What is new in the literature of 2019/2020 - a European Society of Vascular Medicine annual review
Authors: Nikol Sigrid , Mathias Klaus , Olinic Dan Mircea , Blinc Aleš , Espinola-Klein Christine
Published: August 2020

Summary: More than 6,000 publications were found in PubMed concerning aneurysms and dissections, including those Epub ahead of print in 2019, printed in 2020. Among those publications 327 were selected and considered of particular interest.
Diametrically Opposite Scaling of Extreme Precipitation and Streamflow to Temperature in South and Central Asia
Authors: Ghausi Sarosh Alam , Ghosh Subimal
Published: August 2020

Clausius‐Clapeyron (CC) equation suggests a 6–7% increase in extreme precipitation per degree rise in temperature. Scaling rates of extreme precipitation with temperature at different regions significantly deviate from the CC rate. We find that the daily extreme precipitation scaling is negative over sites in the warmer tropical region of South Asia, as opposed to positive scaling over the cooler subtropics. Daily precipitation scaling tends to break down and becomes negative above a temperature of 23–24°C in all the regions. However, such breakdown disappears for subdaily precipitation extremes, and they continue to increase at high temperatures over both tropics and subtropics. This leads to high positive streamflow‐temperature scaling over small catchments, in contrast to extreme precipitation scaling at a daily scale, which is partly negative. Our analysis highlights an increased threat due to flash flood in a warmer climate, which cannot be fully estimated with the analysis of daily precipitation extremes.
Modeling of Bouncing Electron Microbursts Induced by Ducted Chorus Waves
Authors: Chen Lunjin , Breneman Aaron W. , Xia Zhiyang , Zhang Xiao‐jia
Published: August 2020

Short‐lived (<1 s) but intense electron precipitation, known as “microbursts,” may contribute significantly to electron losses in the outer radiation belt. Their origin has been suggested to correlate with resonant scattering by whistler‐mode chorus waves, but existing models cannot fully explain the properties of microbursts, in particular, the bouncing electron packets in the form of a microburst that have been recently observed. A numerical model is presented that reproduces a series of electron bounce packets in response to individual chorus elements. Results indicate that the actual precipitation only occurs in the leading electron packet whereas subsequent packets form because of the following bounce motions of remaining fluxes. An analysis based on wave propagation and resonance condition yields an approximate time‐energy regime of electron microbursts. Such a model is valuable for interpreting and modeling low Earth‐orbiting satellite observations of electron flux variation in response to the interaction with magnetospheric chorus waves.
Bystander CD4+ T cells: crossroads between innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Lee Hong-Gyun , Cho Min-Ji , Choi Je-Min
Published: August 2020

T cells are the central mediators of both humoral and cellular adaptive immune responses. Highly specific receptor-mediated clonal selection and expansion of T cells assure antigen-specific immunity. In addition, encounters with cognate antigens generate immunological memory, the capacity for long-term, antigen-specific immunity against previously encountered pathogens. However, T-cell receptor (TCR)-independent activation, termed “bystander activation”, has also been found. Bystander-activated T cells can respond rapidly and secrete effector cytokines even in the absence of antigen stimulation. Recent studies have rehighlighted the importance of antigen-independent bystander activation of CD4+ T cells in infection clearance and autoimmune pathogenesis, suggesting the existence of a distinct innate-like immunological function performed by conventional T cells. In this review, we discuss the inflammatory mediators that activate bystander CD4+ T cells and the potential physiological roles of these cells during infection, autoimmunity, and cancer.
Tuneable red, green, and blue single-mode lasing in heterogeneously coupled organic spherical microcavities
Authors: Du Yuxiang , Zou Chang-Ling , Zhang Chunhuan , Wang Kang , Qiao Chan , Yao Jiannian , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: August 2020

Tuneable microlasers that span the full visible spectrum, particularly red, green, and blue (RGB) colors, are of crucial importance for various optical devices. However, RGB microlasers usually operate in multimode because the mode selection strategy cannot be applied to the entire visible spectrum simultaneously, which has severely restricted their applications in on-chip optical processing and communication. Here, an approach for the generation of tuneable multicolor single-mode lasers in heterogeneously coupled microresonators composed of distinct spherical microcavities is proposed. With each microcavity serving as both a whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) resonator and a modulator for the other microcavities, a single-mode laser has been achieved. The colors of the single-mode lasers can be freely designed by changing the optical gain in coupled cavities owing to the flexibility of the organic materials. Benefiting from the excellent compatibility, distinct color-emissive microspheres can be integrated to form a heterogeneously coupled system, where tuneable RGB single-mode lasing is realized owing to the capability for optical coupling between multiple resonators. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the lasing modulation that might lead to innovation in structure designs for photonic integration.
LIMK2 promotes the metastatic progression of triple-negative breast cancer by activating SRPK1
Authors: Malvi Parmanand , Janostiak Radoslav , Chava Suresh , Manrai Padmini , Yoon Esther , Singh Kamaljeet , Harigopal Malini , Gupta Romi , Wajapeyee Narendra
Published: August 2020

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly metastatic breast cancer subtype and due to the lack of hormone receptors and HER2 expression, TNBC has limited therapeutic options with chemotherapy being the primary choice for systemic therapy. LIM Domain Kinase 2 (LIMK2) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays an important role in the regulation of actin filament dynamics. Here, we show that LIM domain kinase 2 (LIMK2) is overexpressed in TNBC, and short-hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated LIMK2 knockdown or its pharmacological inhibition blocks metastatic attributes of TNBC cells. To determine the mechanism by which LIMK2 promotes TNBC metastatic progression, we performed stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) based unbiased large-scale phosphoproteomics analysis. This analysis identified 258 proteins whose phosphorylation was significantly reduced due to LIMK2 inhibition. Among these proteins, we identified SRSF protein kinase 1 (SRPK1), which encodes for a serine/arginine protein kinase specific for the SR (serine/arginine-rich domain) family of splicing factors. We show that LIMK2 inhibition blocked SRPK1 phosphorylation and consequentially its activity. Furthermore, similar to LIMK2, genetic inhibition of SRPK1 by shRNAs or its pharmacological inhibition blocked the metastatic attributes of TNBC cells. Moreover, the pharmacological inhibition of LIMK2 blocked metastatic progression in mice without affecting primary tumor growth. In sum, these results identified LIMK2 as a facilitator of distal TNBC metastasis and a potential target for preventing TNBC metastatic progression.
Characteristics of exceptional responders to autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma
Authors: Paquin Ashley , Visram Alissa , Kumar Shaji K. , Gertz Morie A. , Cantwell Hafsa , Buadi Francis K. , Lacy Martha Q. , Dispenzieri Angela , Dingli David , Hwa Lisa , Fonder Amie , Hobbs Miriam , Hayman Suzanne R. , Lust John A. , Russell Stephen J. , Leung Nelson , Kapoor Prashant , Go Ronald S. , Lin Yi , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Kourelis Taxiarchis , Warsame Rahma , Kyle Robert A. , Rajkumar S. Vincent
Published: August 2020

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is an important treatment modality in multiple myeloma (MM). However, relapse following ASCT is considered almost inevitable. This study aimed to characterize exceptional responders to ASCT, defined as progression-free survival (PFS) >8 years in the absence of maintenance therapy. We retrospectively analyzed patients treated at Mayo Clinic between August 1, 1998 and January 3, 2006, and included those with symptomatic MM, treated with an ASCT within 12 months of diagnosis. We found that 46 (9%) of the 509 patients who underwent ASCT during the study period were exceptional responders. The median duration of follow-up from diagnosis was 16.2 (interquartile range 14.3–17.7) years. The best response to therapy was a complete response (CR) or better in 34 (74%) of patients, and less than a CR in 12 (26%) of patients. The median PFS was 13.8 (95% confidence interval 10.5–18.5) years, and at the time of the last hematology assessment, 24 of 46 (52%) patients remained in remission. In conclusion, we showed that a small subset of patients with MM attains durable disease control without maintenance therapy post ASCT. Pre-emptive identification of these patients may help prevent undue toxicities and costs of subsequent therapy.
Integrated microbiota and metabolite profiles link Crohn’s disease to sulfur metabolism
Authors: Metwaly Amira , Dunkel Andreas , Waldschmitt Nadine , Raj Abilash Chakravarthy Durai , Lagkouvardos Ilias , Corraliza Ana Maria , Mayorgas Aida , Martinez-Medina Margarita , Reiter Sinah , Schloter Michael , Hofmann Thomas , Allez Matthieu , Panes Julian , Salas Azucena , Haller Dirk
Published: August 2020

Gut microbial and metabolite alterations have been linked to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases. Here we perform a multi-omics microbiome and metabolite analysis of a longitudinal cohort of Crohn’s disease patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and investigational therapy that induces drug free remission in a subset of patients. Via comparison of patients who responded and maintained remission, responded but experienced disease relapse and patients who did not respond to therapy, we identify shared functional signatures that correlate with disease activity despite the variability of gut microbiota profiles at taxonomic level. These signatures reflect the disease state when transferred to gnotobiotic mice. Taken together, the integration of microbiome and metabolite profiles from human cohort and mice improves the predictive modelling of disease outcome, and allows the identification of a network of bacteria-metabolite interactions involving sulfur metabolism as a key mechanism linked to disease activity in Crohn’s disease.
Pediatric pan-central nervous system tumor analysis of immune-cell infiltration identifies correlates of antitumor immunity
Authors: Grabovska Yura , Mackay Alan , O’Hare Patricia , Crosier Stephen , Finetti Martina , Schwalbe Edward C. , Pickles Jessica C. , Fairchild Amy R. , Avery Aimee , Cockle Julia , Hill Rebecca , Lindsey Janet , Hicks Debbie , Kristiansen Mark , Chalker Jane , Anderson John , Hargrave Darren , Jacques Thomas S. , Straathof Karin , Bailey Simon , Jones Chris , Clifford Steven C. , Williamson Daniel
Published: August 2020

Immune-therapy is an attractive alternative therapeutic approach for targeting central nervous system (CNS) tumors and the constituency of the Tumor Immune Microenvironment (TIME) likely to predict patient response. Here, we describe the TIME of >6000 primarily pediatric CNS tumors using a deconvolution approach (methylCIBERSORT). We produce and validate a custom reference signature defining 11 non-cancer cell types to estimate relative proportions of infiltration in a panCNS tumor cohort spanning 80 subtypes. We group patients into three broad immune clusters associated with CNS tumor types/subtypes. In cohorts of medulloblastomas (n = 2325), malignant rhabdoid tumors (n = 229) and pediatric high-grade gliomas (n = 401), we show significant associations with molecular subgroups/subtypes, mutations, and prognosis. We further identify tumor-specific immune clusters with phenotypic characteristics relevant to immunotherapy response (i.e. Cytolytic score, PDL1 expression). Our analysis provides an indication of the potential future therapeutic and prognostic possibilities of immuno-methylomic profiling in pediatric CNS tumor patients that may ultimately inform approach to immune-therapy.
Evidence for spin-dependent energy transport in a superconductor
Authors: Kuzmanović M. , Wu B. Y. , Weideneder M. , Quay C. H. L. , Aprili M.
Published: August 2020

In ferromagnetic materials, spin up and down electrons can carry different heat currents. This spin-dependent energy excitation mode (‘spin energy mode’) occurs only when spin up and down energy distribution functions are different. In superconductors, heat is carried by quasiparticle excitations and the spin energy mode can be excited by spin-polarised current injection. In the presence of a finite Zeeman magnetic field, the spin energy mode surprisingly leads to a charge imbalance (different numbers of hole- and electron-like quasiparticles) at the superconducting gap edge. By performing spin-resolved spectroscopy of the out-of-equilibrium quasiparticle populations in a mescoscopic superconductor, we reveal that their distribution functions are non-Fermi–Dirac. In addition, our spectroscopic technique allows us to observe a charge imbalance, localised in energy to the gap edge and thus unambiguously identify the spin energy mode. Our results agree well with theory and shed light on energy transport in superconducting spintronics.
Connecting shear localization with the long-range correlated polarized stress fields in granular materials
Authors: Wang Yinqiao , Wang Yujie , Zhang Jie
Published: August 2020

One long-lasting puzzle in amorphous solids is shear localization, where local plastic deformation involves cooperative particle rearrangements in small regions of a few inter-particle distances, self-organizing into shear bands and eventually leading to the material failure. Understanding the connection between the structure and dynamics of amorphous solids is essential in physics, material sciences, geotechnical and civil engineering, and geophysics. Here we show a deep connection between shear localization and the intrinsic structures of internal stresses in an isotropically jammed granular material subject to shear. Specifically, we find strong (anti)correlations between the micro shear bands and two polarized stress fields along two directions of maximal shear. By exploring the tensorial characteristics and the rotational symmetry of force network, we reveal that such profound connection is a result of symmetry breaking by shear. Finally, we provide the solid experimental evidence of long-range correlated inherent shear stress in an isotropically jammed granular system.
Publisher Correction: A glycoprotein B-neutralizing antibody structure at 2.8 Å uncovers a critical domain for herpesvirus fusion initiation
Authors: Oliver Stefan L. , Xing Yi , Chen Dong-Hua , Roh Soung Hun , Pintilie Grigore D. , Bushnell David A. , Sommer Marvin H. , Yang Edward , Carfi Andrea , Chiu Wah , Arvin Ann M.
Published: August 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Project IPAD, a database to catalogue the analysis of Fukushima Daiichi accident fragmental release material
Authors: Martin Peter , Alhaddad Omran , Verbelen Yannick , Satou Yukihiko , Igarashi Yasuhito , Scott Thomas B.
Published: August 2020

The 2011 accident at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant released a considerable inventory of radioactive material into the local and global environments. While the vast majority of this contamination was in the form of gaseous and aerosol species, of which a large component was distributed out over the neighbouring Pacific Ocean (where it was subsequently deposited), a substantial portion of the radioactive release was in particulate form and was deposited across Fukushima Prefecture. To provide an underpinning understanding of the dynamics of this catastrophic accident, alongside assisting in the off-site remediation and eventual reactor decommissioning activities, the ‘International Particle Analysis Database’, or ‘IPAD’, was established to serve as an interactive repository for the continually expanding analysis dataset of the sub-mm ejecta particulate. In addition to a fully interrogatable database of analysis results for registered users (exploiting multiple search methods), the database also comprises an open-access front-end for members of the public to engage with the multi-national analysis activities by exploring a streamlined version of the data.
Age- and season-dependent pattern of flavonol glycosides in Cabernet Sauvignon grapevine leaves
Authors: Bouderias Sakina , Teszlák Péter , Jakab Gábor , Kőrösi László
Published: August 2020

Flavonols play key roles in many plant defense mechanisms, consequently they are frequently investigated as stress sensitive factors in relation to several oxidative processes. It is well known that grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) can synthesize various flavonol glycosides in the leaves, however, very little information is available regarding their distribution along the cane at different leaf levels. In this work, taking into consideration of leaf position, the main flavonol glycosides of a red grapevine cultivar (Cabernet Sauvignon) were profiled and quantified by HPLC–DAD analysis. It was found that amount of four flavonol glycosides, namely, quercetin-3-O-galactoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside and kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide decreased towards the shoot tip. Since leaf age also decreases towards the shoot tip, the obtained results suggest that these compounds continuously formed by leaf aging, resulting in their accumulation in the older leaves. In contrast, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide (predominant form) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside were not accumulated significantly by aging. We also pointed out that grapevine boosted the flavonol biosynthesis in September, and flavonol profile differed significantly in the two seasons. Our results contribute to the better understanding of the role of flavonols in the antioxidant defense system of grapevine.
Non-invasive screening for subclinical liver graft injury in adults via donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies
Authors: Höfer Anne , Jonigk Danny , Hartleben Björn , Verboom Murielle , Hallensleben Michael , Manns Michael P. , Jaeckel Elmar , Taubert Richard
Published: August 2020

The majority of liver grafts exhibit abnormal histological findings late after transplantation, even when liver enzymes are normal. Such subclinical graft injuries were associated with rejection and fibrosis progression in recent studies. The identification of non-invasive biomarkers for subclinical graft injury might help to individualize immunosuppression. Therefore, graft injury was assessed in 133 liver biopsies with normal/near normal liver enzymes from a prospective liver biopsy program. Cytokeratin-18 cell death marker (M65) and donor specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) were measured as non-invasive markers in paired plasma samples in addition to routine parameters. M65 was associated with subclinical graft injury but this association was too weak for reasonable clinical application. DSA positivity was associated with more graft inflammation (OR = 5.4) and more fibrosis (OR = 4.2). Absence of DSA excluded fibrosis in 87–89%, while presence of DSA excluded histological criteria for immunosuppression minimization attempts in 92–97%. While CK18 cell death marker had no diagnostic value for the detection of subclinical liver graft injury, DSA testing can help to preselect patients for immunosuppression reduction in case of DSA negativity, while DSA positivity should prompt elastography or liver biopsy for the assessment of subclinical graft injury.