bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fumarate hydratase-deficient renal cell carcinoma cells respond to asparagine by activation of the unfolded protein response and stimulation of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway
Authors: Panarsky Rony , Crooks Daniel R. , Lane Andrew N. , Yang Youfeng , Cassel Teresa A. , Fan Teresa W.-M. , Linehan W. Marston , Moscow Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2020

Background

The loss-of-function mutation of fumarate hydratase (FH) is a driver of hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC). Fumarate accumulation results in activation of stress-related mechanisms leading to upregulation of cell survival-related genes. To better understand how cells compensate for the loss of FH in HLRCC, we determined the amino acid nutrient requirements of the FH-deficient UOK262 cell line (UOK262) and its FH-repleted control (UOK262WT).

Methods

We determined growth rates and survival of cell lines in response to amino acid depletion and supplementation. RNAseq was used to determine the transcription changes contingent on Asn and Gln supplementation, which was further followed with stable isotope resolved metabolomics (SIRM) using both [U-13C,15N] Gln and Asn.

Results

We found that Asn increased the growth rate of both cell lines in vitro. Gln, but not Asn, increased oxygen consumption rates and glycolytic reserve of both cell lines. Although Asn was taken up by the cells, there was little evidence of Asn-derived label in cellular metabolites, indicating that Asn was not catabolized. However, Asn strongly stimulated Gln labeling of uracil and precursors, uridine phosphates and hexosamine metabolites in the UOK262 cells and to a much lesser extent in the UOK262WT cells, indicating an activation of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) by Asn. Asn in combination with Gln, but not Asn or Gln alone, stimulated expression of genes associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR) in UOK262 to a greater extent than in FH-restored cells. The changes in expression of these genes were confirmed by RT-PCR, and the stimulation of the UPR was confirmed orthogonally by demonstration of an increase in spliced XBP1 (sXBP1) in UOK262 cells under these conditions. Asn exposure also increased both the RNA and protein expression of the HBP regulator GFPT2, which is a transcriptional target of sXBP1.

Conclusions

Asn in the presence of Gln induces an ER stress response in FH-deficient UOK262 cells and stimulates increased synthesis of UDP-acetyl glycans indicative of HBP activity. These data demonstrate a novel effect of asparagine on cellular metabolism in FH-deficient cells that could be exploited therapeutically.
Bioinformatics analysis of epitope-based vaccine design against the novel SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Chen Hong-Zhi , Tang Ling-Li , Yu Xin-Ling , Zhou Jie , Chang Yun-Feng , Wu Xiang
Published: August 2020

Background

An outbreak of infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 recently has brought a great challenge to public health. Rapid identification of immune epitopes would be an efficient way to screen the candidates for vaccine development at the time of pandemic. This study aimed to predict the protective epitopes with bioinformatics methods and resources for vaccine development.

Methods

The genome sequence and protein sequences of SARS-CoV-2 were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. ABCpred and BepiPred servers were utilized for sequential B-cell epitope analysis. Discontinuous B-cell epitopes were predicted via DiscoTope 2.0 program. IEDB server was utilized for HLA-1 and HLA-2 binding peptides computation. Surface accessibility, antigenicity, and other important features of forecasted epitopes were characterized for immunogen potential evaluation.

Results

A total of 63 sequential B-cell epitopes on spike protein were predicted and 4 peptides (Spike315–324, Spike333–338, Spike648–663, Spike1064–1079) exhibited high antigenicity score and good surface accessibility. Ten residues within spike protein (Gly496, Glu498, Pro499, Thr500, Leu1141, Gln1142, Pro1143, Glu1144, Leu1145, Asp1146) are forecasted as components of discontinuous B-cell epitopes. The bioinformatics analysis of HLA binding peptides within nucleocapsid protein produced 81 and 64 peptides being able to bind MHC class I and MHC class II molecules respectively. The peptides (Nucleocapsid66–75, Nucleocapsid104–112) were predicted to bind a wide spectrum of both HLA-1 and HLA-2 molecules.

Conclusions

B-cell epitopes on spike protein and T-cell epitopes within nucleocapsid protein were identified and recommended for developing a protective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2.
FAB: First UK feasibility trial of a future randomised controlled trial of Family focused treatment for Adolescents with Bipolar disorder
Authors: Sharma A. , Glod M. , Forster T. , McGovern R. , McGurk K. , Barron Millar E. , Meyer T. D. , Miklowitz D. , Ryan V. , Vale L. , Le Couteur A.
Published: August 2020

Background

This first mixed-methods UK trial examined the feasibility and acceptability of a future definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate whether Family Focussed Treatment for Adolescents with Bipolar Disorder (FFT-A) UK version can improve family functioning and well-being as part of the management of Paediatric Bipolar Disorder (PBD).

Method

The trial used a randomised, parallel group, non-blinded design where participants received FFT-A UK (16 sessions over 6 months) immediately or after 12 months (delayed arm). Measures of family functioning, well-being and quality of life of the young person and the main carer (most commonly a parent) were completed at baseline, 6 and 12-months in both arms. Primary outcome measures included rates of eligibility, consent and retention along with estimates of variability in the measures and assessment of the intervention delivery. Qualitative interviews allowed assessment of participants’ views about FFT-A and the trial processes.

Results

Twenty-seven of 36 young persons with PBD and their families consented; of these, 14 families were randomised to the immediate and 13 to the delayed arm. Two families from the immediate arm withdrew consent and discontinued participation. Quantitative measures were completed by 22 families (88%) at 6-months and 21 families (84%) at 12-months. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 30 participants (9 young people, 15 parents and 6 other family members). Nine families attended 3 post-trial focus groups.

Conclusion

It was feasible to recruit and retain to this trial. The results highlighted that trial design and measures were acceptable to participants. A benefit in family relationships was reported by participants which they attributed to the intervention in qualitative interviews. Families recommended that future modifications include definitive trial(s) recruiting participants in the age range 15–25 years as it felt this was the age range with maximum need.

Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN59769322. Registered 20 January 2014, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN59769322
Autobiographical memories of interpersonal trust in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Botsford Janina , Renneberg Babette
Published: August 2020

Background

Establishing and maintaining interpersonal trust is often difficult for patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). How we trust is influenced by prior trust experiences.

Methods

For the investigation of trust experiences, autobiographical memories of n = 36 patients with BPD and n = 99 non-clinical controls were examined. Trust objects and interaction partners, emotional valence, perceived relevance and memory specificity were analyzed.

Results

Content analyses revealed that patients with BPD recalled mostly situations in which their trust was failed by family members or romantic partners. In addition, patients with BPD considered memories with trust and mistrust more relevant for their current lives than the control group. Our results correspond with findings that BPD patients have difficulties trusting close others as well as with theoretical assumptions about deficits in mentalizing and epistemic trust in patients with BPD.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our findings should encourage clinical practitioners to address trust deficits towards close others, as well as omniscient negative memory retrieval and interpretation biases which might influence current trust behavior.
Prevalence of Body Dysmorphic Disorder among patients seeking orthodontic treatment
Authors: Sathyanarayana Haritha Pottipalli , Padmanabhan Sridevi , Balakrishnan R. , Chitharanjan Arun B.
Published: August 2020

Background

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a psychiatric disorder with delusions about defects in appearance for which patients seek various treatments. Patients with BDD often seek cosmetic procedures, and orthodontic treatment is one among them. This is the first Indian study to determine the prevalence of BDD in an orthodontic outpatient department.

Materials and method

A total of 1184 patients with varying degrees of malocclusion completed the BDD-YBOCS questionnaire, while an experienced orthodontist assessed the severity of malocclusion with a rating scale.

Results

Sixty-two patients (5.2%) were screened positive for BDD. Most of the BDD-positive patients were single (p value of 0.02) and had multiple previous consultations for orthodontic treatment (p value of < 0.00**) with a gender predilection toward males (p value of 0.00**), and age was not statistically significant with a p value of 0.3.

Conclusion

From our study, the prevalence of BDD among orthodontic patients was 5.2%. The orthodontist should be aware of the high prevalence of BDD among orthodontic patients and identify the expectations of the patient at the time of history taking and refer the patient to a psychiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate management.
Sale of WHO AWaRe groups antibiotics without a prescription in Pakistan: a simulated client study
Authors: Saleem Zikria , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Godman Brian , Fatima Munazzah , Ahmad Zeenia , Sajid Areeba , Rehman Inaam Ur , Nadeem Muhammad Umer , Javaid Zaida , Malik Madeeha , Hussain Azhar
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Resistant strains of bacteria are rapidly emerging with increasing inappropriate use of antibiotics rendering them less efficacious. Self-purchasing of antibiotics particularly for viral infections is a key driver of inappropriate use, especially in lower- and middle-income countries. There is a particular issue in countries such as Pakistan. Consequently, there is a need to assess current rates of self-purchasing especially for reserve antibiotics to guide future policies.

Aims

Assess the extent of current antibiotic sales without a prescription in urban areas of Pakistan.

Methodology

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in different areas of Punjab, Pakistan using Simulated Client technique. The investigators demanded different predefined antibiotics from WHO AWaRe groups without prescription. Three levels of demand were used to convince the pharmacy staff in order to dispense the antibiotic without a prescription. A data collection form was completed by simulated clients within 15 min of each visit.

Results

Overall 353 pharmacies and medical stores were visited out of which 96.9% pharmacies and medical stores dispensed antibiotics without demanding a prescription (82.7% at demand level 1 and 14.2% at demand level 2), with only 3.1% of pharmacies refusing to dispense antibiotics. The most frequently dispensed antibiotic was ciprofloxacin (22.1%). Surprisingly, even the reserve group antibiotics were also dispensed without a prescription. In only 25.2% visits, pharmacy staff guided patients about the use of antibiotics, and in only 11.0% pharmacists enquired about other medication history.

Conclusion

Currently, antibiotics are easily acquired without a legitimate prescription in Pakistan. There is a need for strict adherence to regulations combined with a multi-dimensional approach to enhance appropriate dispensing of antibiotics and limit any dispensing of WHO restricted antibiotics without a prescription.
Medication use and driving patterns in older drivers: preliminary findings from the LongROAD study
Authors: Hill Linda L. , Andrews Howard , Li Guohua , DiGuiseppi Carolyn G. , Betz Marian E. , Strogatz David , Pepa Patricia , Eby David W. , Merle David , Kelley-Baker Tara , Jones Vanya , Pitts Samantha
Published: August 2020

Background

The potential for impaired driving due to medication use can occur at any age, though older adults are more likely to take multiple prescribed medications and experience side effects that may affect driving ability. The purpose of this study was to characterize the relationship between medications and driving safety behaviors.

Methods

Data for this study came from the five-site Longitudinal Research on Aging Drivers (LongROAD) project. Participants were active drivers, age 65–79 years at enrollment, and patients at one of the 5 participating sites. Medication names and doses were obtained at baseline based on the “brown-bag review” method. Medications were coded using the American Hospital Formulary Service system. Driving data were collected by a GPS accelerometer installed in the study participants’ main vehicles.

Results

Medication data were available for 2949 (98.6%) of the 2990 participants, and 2898 (96.9% of all participants) had both medication data and at least 30 recorded days of driving. The median number of medications taken per study participant was seven, with a range of 0–51. Total number of medications was significantly associated with a higher rapid deceleration rate. Certain medication classes were significantly associated with other driving outcomes, including central nervous system agents (more speeding events), hormones and gastrointestinal medications (more rapid decelerations), electrolytes (fewer rapid decelerations), and antihistamines (greater right to left turn ratio).

Conclusions

Older adult drivers are taking large quantities of prescription and non-prescription medications that may affect their driving safety. Certain medication classes are associated with potentially adverse driving patterns, such as speeding and rapid decelerations, while others are associated with potentially protective maneuvers, such as right hand turning. Further research is warranted to identify and mitigate potential adverse effects of such medications on driving safety in older adults.
First evidence of heteroplasmy in Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix)
Authors: Pizzirani Claudia , Viola Paolo , Gabbianelli Federica , Fagotti Anna , Simoncelli Francesca , Di Rosa Ines , Salvi Paolo , Amici Andrea , Lucentini Livia
Published: August 2020

We report for the first time the occurrence of heteroplasmy in Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix) revealed by means of two mitochondrial fragments. The possible serious biological and management implications of this exception to unilateral inheritance of mtDNA were underlined.
Application of antibody phage display to identify potential antigenic neural precursor cell proteins
Authors: Paspaltsis Ioannis , Kesidou Evangelia , Touloumi Olga , Lagoudaki Roza , Boziki Marina , Samiotaki Martina , Dafou Dimitra , Sklaviadis Theodoros , Grigoriadis Nikolaos
Published: August 2020

Background

The discovery of neural precursor cells (NPCs) and the concomitant intensive research in the field offer regenerative medicine novel approaches, enabling it to tackle conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases. Transplantation of NPCs is nowadays considered a cutting-edge treatment for these conditions and many related clinical trials have been already completed or are still ongoing. However, little is known about the antigenicity of NPCs, with most studies addressing the question whether their antigenicity could lead to rejection of the transplanted cells.

Results

In this study we investigated the antigenic potential of syngeneic NPCs emulsion, upon subcutaneous (s.c.) administration to wild type C57BL/6 mice, following a standard immunization protocol. The whole IgG repertoire expressed upon immunization was cloned into a Fab phage display vector. From the created phage display library, Fab expressing clones interacting with NPCs lysate proteins were selected with the biopanning technique. The IgG Fab fragment from clone 65 proved to be reactive against antigens originating from NPCs lysates and/or whole brain lysate in diverse immunological assays.

Conclusions

Using a standard immunization protocol to administer NPCs antigens, and applying the Fab fragment phage display technique, we were able to isolate at least a monoclonal IgG Fab fragment, which interacts with different mouse brain proteins. It is not clear whether such antibodies are produced in the host organisms, following NPCs transplantation.
Impact of nose radius and machining parameters on surface roughness, tool wear and tool life during turning of AA7075/SiC composites for green manufacturing
Authors: Bhushan Rajesh Kumar
Published: August 2020

Green manufacturing demands least wastage. Minimum chip formation reduces adverse effect on environment. Nose radius has a major role in reducing development of chips. Selection of proper nose radius and machining parameters will reduce amount of chip, therefore protect the environment. In finish turning of Al alloy-SiC, nose radius wear mainly affect the surface feature of the final product. It is owing to the direct contact between the area of tool nose and the SiC particles during turning. This paper is focused on influence of tool nose radius and machining parameters on surface quality of AA7075/15 wt.% SiC (20 - 40 μm) composites and tool life of tungsten carbide inserts while dry turning. Response surface method (RSM) was utilized to find the roughness and tool life under numerous turning situations. Considering the single objective optimization of turning parameters, minimum roughness of 2.088 μm, was achieved at nose radius of 1.2 mm and maximum tool life of 6.72 min, was obtained at nose radius of 0.4 mm. Multi objective optimization by desirability analysis for minimum roughness and the maximum life of tool has shown that suitable value of nose radius is 0.4 mm. Multi objective optimization of both roughness of surface and life of tool results in 1.81% increase in surface roughness and 10.11% decrease in tool life. Abrasion was mainly found to be responsible for wear of tungsten carbide inserts, while turning of AA7075/15 wt.% SiC (20 - 40 μm) composites. Novelty of this research work is that so far no one has investigated impact of nose radius and machining parameters on surface roughness, tool wear and tool life during turning of AA7075/15 wt.% SiC composites. Outcome of this research work will be useful for vehicle, aeroplane, space and ship industry.
Long term efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban plus cilostazol in the treatment of critical ischemia of the lower limbs in a frail, elderly patient with non valvular atrial fibrillation
Authors: Trani Antonio , Benedetto Pietro , Di Leo Ferdinando , Baiano Angela , Esposito Andrea , Menna Danilo , Allegretti Arianna , Cappiello Pierluigi Antonino , Dell’Edera Domenico
Published: August 2020

Background

Many patients with critical lower limb ischemia are not eligible for revascularization procedures. Still, given the emerging role of both platelet and coagulation activation in the formation of arterial thrombi, they may benefit from the novel anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a male with critical lower limb ischemia complicated by older age, frailty, polymorbidity and non valvular atrial fibrillation, who was deemed as non eligible for surgery. The patient was successfully treated with the combination of rivaroxaban and cilostazol, and the clinical benefit was maintained throughout 32 months, with no occurrence of major or minor hemorrhagic or thrombotic events.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report on the efficacy and safety of such a combination therapy in critical lower limb ischemia. In a clinical setting in which alternative pharmacological approaches are urgently needed, the association of rivaroxaban and cilostazol warrants further investigations.
Reliability of foveal avascular zone measurements in eyes with retinal vein occlusion using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: de Oliveira Bruno Mauricio Rodrigues , Nakayama Luis Filipe , de Godoy Bruno Rebello , de Azevedo Alexandre Gomes Bortoloti , Hirai Flavio Eduardo , Mitne Somaia
Published: August 2020

Background

To evaluate the reliability of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area measurements using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in eyes with retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

Methods

Twenty-five OCTA exams of patients with RVO were evaluated retrospectively. Three examiners performed manual measurements of the FAZ, and interrater and intrarater reliability were obtained.

Results

The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for interrater reliability for individual measurements was 0.62 (moderate) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.40 to 0.79 (p < 0.001). The ICC (95% CI) for intrarater reliability was 0.92 (0.82 to 0.96) for rater A, 0.96 (0.91 to 0.98) for B, and 0.88 (0.76 to 0.94) for C (p < 0.001). In all subanalyses including presence of edema and type of occlusion, interrater reliability was poor/moderate, and intrarater reliability was good/excellent.

Conclusion

The FAZ varies significantly among eyes with RVO, so measurements obtained using OCTA should be analyzed with caution due to the moderate level of reliability among different examiners.
The implementation of Small Private Online Courses (SPOC) as a new approach to education
Authors: Ruiz-Palmero Julio , Fernández-Lacorte José-María , Sánchez-Rivas Enrique , Colomo-Magaña Ernesto
Published: August 2020

This article presents a study of the participants of a Small Private Online Course (SPOC) entitled “The Didactic Programming: Elements and Process of Elaboration” at the University of Málaga (Spain). Since the concept was first introduced in 2013, SPOCs have been progressively implemented in higher education. They were conceived to succeed where Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) failed, namely in the high drop-out rate. Using a descriptive method, a questionnaire was designed to collect data on the individual characteristics of the University students participating in the SPOC, the degree of satisfaction they expressed at the end of the training process and their opinion regarding class-based courses. The completion rate was 78.7%, and 70.6% of them had previously undertaken online training activities. All the sections of the course (objectives, contents, evaluation, etc.) were favourably evaluated by more than 85% of the participants, as well as their preference for online training.
On innovating: an interview with Gautam Ahuja
Authors: Adbi Arzi , Contigiani Andrea , Szulanski Gabriel , Ahuja Gautam
Published: August 2020

At the 2016 SMS Foundations Session interview with Professor Gautam Ahuja, we explored the key insights of his research trajectory, with a special focus on how organizations successfully innovate. We discussed the major ideas, theories, and results that he and his co-authors generated throughout his successful career. The interview was conducted on September 18, 2016 at the Strategic Management Society Annual Conference in Berlin, Germany. This article discusses Gautam’s role in the organizations’ literature, reports excerpts of the interview, and concludes with a postscript from Gautam Ahuja written for the community of organization design scholars.
Single institutional experience of peripheral applications of a liquid embolic agent: Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer
Authors: Salaskar Abhijit L. , Razjouyan Faezeh , Cho Alexander L. , Sood Rishi R. , Akman Andrew , Scher Daniel , Venbrux Anthony C. , Sarin Shawn N.
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer for the treatment of a variety of peripheral vascular pathologies.

Results

Between October 2010 and October 2017, 43 patients who underwent total 54 EVOH embolization procedures for the treatment of peripheral vascular pathologies were included. The cases which involved the use of EVOH for the treatment of nonvascular, neurologic, ophthalmologic, otolaryngologic or head-neck pathologies were excluded. The demographic data, technical and clinical success rates, and procedure-related details and complications were obtained. The most common indications for EVOH embolization were type II endoleaks (n = 18) and peripheral arteriovenous malformations (n = 14). The majority of cases (62.5%) used EVOH without any adjunct embolic material. The results of this study showed 100% technical success rates and 89% clinical success rates. No events of nontarget embolization or other procedure-related complications were noted. The mortality & morbidity rates were 0%. The loss to follow up rate was 16% (9 /54). The mean follow-up period was 134 days (range, 30 to 522 days).

Conclusion

The single institutional experience supports the safety and efficacy of EVOH embolization in the treatment of various peripheral vascular conditions.
Initial absolute monocyte count as an immune biomarker for clinical response in acute myeloid leukemia with monocytic differentiation
Authors: Embaby Ahmed , Fathy Ayman , Al-Akkad Mohammad , Baraka Ahmad , Ibrahim Taiseer , Zidan Nahla , Refaat Mohamed , Elsheikh Haitham
Published: August 2020

Background

Absolute monocyte count (AMC) correlates with survival outcomes in various hematologic malignancies. However, its role in myeloid malignancies including AML needs to be highlighted. So, this prospective cohort study aimed to assess the effect of AMC on the treatment outcome and survival in a 56 adult de novo AML patients with monocytic differentiation, admitted to the Clinical Hematology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, in a tertiary referral hospital in Egypt, from July 2016 to June 2019.

Results

The initial AMC was measured either by manual differential or the hematology automatic analyzer Sysmex XN-2000 and patients were classified by using receiver operating characteristic curve into two groups monocytopenic (≤ 4 × 109/L) and non-monocytopenic (> 4 × 109/L) group; including 24 (42.9%) and 32 (57.1%) patients, respectively. After a median follow up period of 7.7 (range 0.5–33.2) months, the monocytopenic group was associated with a significantly higher CR rate (P = 0.019), with a lower death as well as relapse and early relapse rates (P = 0.011, 0.033, and 0.002, respectively). Moreover, low initial AMC along with intensive induction were independently associated with complete response to induction chemotherapy with HR, 5.04 [1.37–18.58], P = 0.015, and 5.67 [1.48–21.71], P = 0.011, respectively by using the multivariate logistic regression model. Regarding survival, the monocytopenic group was associated with a better 3-year disease-free survival rate (P = 0.011) in univariate Cox regression only but did not reach significance in the multivariate model and did not affect the overall survival as well.

Conclusion

Initial AMC was found to be an independent prognostic immune biomarker for treatment response in AML patients with monocytic differentiation. However, it did not appear as an independent predictor of survival in a multivariate analysis.

Graphical abstract
Fracture acoustic emission signals identification of stay cables in bridge engineering application using deep transfer learning and wavelet analysis
Authors: Xin Haohui , Cheng Lu , Diender Robin , Veljkovic Milan
Published: August 2020

Stay cables are typically exposed to the environment and traffic loading leading to degradations due to corrosion and cyclic loading after years’ in service. A non-destructive method to detect the defects of cables as early as possible is needed and important for adequate large-span bridge maintenance. Use of a status-driven acoustic emission (AE) monitoring Convolutional neural network (CNN) method is investigated by combing wavelet analysis and transfer deep learning. CNN is used to construct the relationship between AE signals’ scalograms and cable status. The trained CNN is suitable to identify the in-situ monitored signals and evaluate the current status of cables during the operation of a bridge. As a pilot study, the binary AE signals classification CNN is implemented to identify noise & fracture AE signals in static tests of a stay-cable. Accuracy of the method is investigated. In addition, the trained model is examined using AE signals which are not used in the machine learning to check possible improvements of the accuracy. Expectations in recognition of results and status-driven monitoring potentials are addressed in the paper.
International and National Approaches to the Conducting of Iodine Thyroid Blocking in the Accident of a Nuclear Reactor
Authors: Metlyaev E. , Bogdanova L. , Grachev M. , Salenko Yu. , Frolov G. , Lyaginskaya A.
Published: August 2020

Purpose: Carry out a comparative analysis of the criteria and practices of conduct Iodine thyroid blocking (ITB) in various countries from the standpoint of WHO publication (2017) “Iodine thyroid blocking. Guidelines for use in planning for and responding to radiological and nuclear emergencies” (WHO Guidelines) and national Rules and requirements 2.6.1.2523-09 (NRB-99/2009) and other documents, including facility and territorial Emergency plans and instructions contained therein. Results: The WHO Guidelines, prepared using the GRADE method, determine the conditional recommendation in favor of conduct ITB in the event of a release of radioactive iodine: “During a radiation or nuclear emergency, the provision of ITB for people who are at risk of exposure to radioactive iodine should be implemented as urgent protective action as part of a justified and optimized protection strategy”. In the WHO Guidelines, such a recommendation is recognized as qualitatively low, and the strength of this recommendation is conditional, due to insufficient data on the use of stable iodine drugs. However, after studying the implementation of this protective measure, it was determined that the benefits of the intervention outweigh the disadvantages and associated costs. The article contains a selective discussion and opinion of the authors on a number of key issues of organization and conduct ITB. Conclusion: A comparative analysis revealed the similarities and differences between foreign and national practices of conduct ITB. The convergence of positions is necessary and aimed at harmonizing national and international criteria and practices. To date, there is no federal level document in the Russian regulatory framework that regulates the planning, organization and conduct of ITB in relation to people who are not associated with work at radiation hazardous facilities and do not live on territories served by the FMBA of Russia. Based on this, a range of priority important issues that need to be addressed has been identified.
Probing variations of fibrous structures during the development of breast ductal carcinoma tissues via Mueller matrix imaging
Authors: Dong Yang , Liu Shaoxiong , Shen Yuanxing , He Honghui , Ma Hui
Published: August 2020

Recently, we developed a label-free method to probe the microstructural information and optical properties of unstained thin tissue slices based on microscopic Mueller matrix imaging technique. In this paper, we take the microscopic Mueller matrix images of human breast ductal carcinoma tissue samples at different pathological stages, and then calculate and analyze their retardance-related Mueller matrix-derived parameters. To reveal the microstructural features more quantitatively and precisely, we propose a new method based on first-order statistical properties of image to transform the 2D images of Mueller matrix parameters into several statistical feature vectors. We evaluate each statistical feature vector by corresponding classification characteristic value extracted from the statistical features of Mueller matrix parameters images of healthy breast duct tissue samples. The experimental results indicate that these statistical feature vectors of Mueller matrix derived parameters may become powerful tools to quantitatively characterize breast ductal carcinoma tissue samples at different pathological stages. It has the potential to facilitate automating the staging process of breast ductal carcinoma tissue, resulting in the improvement of diagnostic efficiency.
Atmospheric correction in coastal region using same-day observations of different sun-sensor geometries with a revised POLYMER model
Authors: Wang Junwei , Lee Zhongping , Wei Jianwei , Du Keping
Published: August 2020

In this paper, with a revised POLYMER (POLYnomial based approach applied to MERIS data) atmospheric correction model, we present a novel scheme (two-angle atmospheric correction algorithm, termed as TAACA) to remove atmospheric contributions in satellite ocean color measurements for coastal environments, especially when there are absorbing aerosols. TAACA essentially uses the same water properties as a constraint to determine oceanic and atmospheric properties simultaneously using two same-day consecutive satellite images having different sun-sensor geometries. The performance of TAACA is first evaluated with a synthetic dataset, where the retrieved remote-sensing reflectance (Rrs) by TAACA matches very well (the coefficient of determination (R2) ≥ 0.98) with the simulated Rrs for each wavelength, and the unbiased root mean square error (uRMSE) is ∼12.2% for cases of both non-absorbing and strongly absorbing aerosols. When this dataset is handled by POLYMER, for non-absorbing aerosol cases, the R2 and uRMSE values are ∼0.99 and ∼7.5%, respectively, but they are ∼0.92 and ∼39.5% for strongly absorbing aerosols. TAACA is further assessed using co-located VIIRS measurements for waters in Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay, and the retrieved Rrs from VIIRS agrees with in situ measurements within ∼27.3% at the visible wavelengths. By contrast, a traditional algorithm resulted in uRMSE as 3890.4% and 58.9% at 410 and 443 nm, respectively, for these measurements. The Rrs products derived from POLYMER also show large deviations from in situ measurements. It is envisioned that more reliable Rrs products in coastal waters could be obtained from satellite ocean color measurements with a scheme like TAACA, especially when there are strongly absorbing aerosols.
Pupil inversion Mach-Zehnder interferometry for diffraction-limited optical astronomical imaging
Authors: Prieto-Blanco X. , Liñares J. , Montero-Orille C. , Moreno V. , Mouriz D. , Nistal M. C.
Published: August 2020

We present theoretical and laboratory experimental results on a robust interferometric device based on pupil inversion, or 180° rotational shearing interferometry. The image of an astronomical object degraded by the atmosphere turbulence can be restored (ideally up to the diffraction limit) by a numerical post-processing of the interferogram. Unlike previous Michelson configurations that return half of the light to the sky, the Mach-Zehnder interferometer has no fundamental losses when both outputs are used. The interferogram is formed by two overlapped images of the telescope pupil, but one of them is spatially inverted, and out of phase by π/2 only in its half. This optical operation is achieved in a robust way by inserting a refractive optical image inverter and a binary phase plate in one of the arms of the interferometer. In this way, the system has no polarization dependence or moving parts since the plate allows the object to be retrieved numerically from just one interferogram (single exposition) or a few independent interferograms. For that, several algorithms are proposed. Likewise, we include a laboratory proof-of-concept in which a diffraction-limited image is obtained in spite of presence of aberrations and photon noise.
Ultra-low phase noise microwave generation with a free-running monolithic femtosecond laser
Authors: Kalubovilage Manoj , Endo Mamoru , Schibli Thomas R.
Published: August 2020

Phase noise performance of photonic microwave systems, such as optical frequency division (OFD), can surpass state-of-the-art electronic oscillators by several orders of magnitude. However, high-finesse cavities and active stabilization requirements in OFD systems make them complicated and potentially unfit for field deployment. Ultra-low noise mode-locked monolithic lasers offer a viable alternative for a compact and simple photonic microwave system. Here we present a free-running monolithic laser-based 8 GHz microwave generation with ultra-low phase noise performance comparable to laboratory OFD systems. The measured noise performance reached −130 dBc/Hz at 100 Hz, – 150 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz, and –167 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offsets from the 8-GHz carrier. We also report a sub-Poissonian noise floor of −179 dBc/Hz above 30 kHz (timing noise floor of 32 zs Hz−1/2), which is ∼12 dB below the noise floor of time-invariant shot noise. In addition to the low phase noise, the system is compact, with a power consumption of less than 9 W, and offers excellent potential for mobile or space-borne applications.
Numerical analysis of light reflection and transmission in poly-disperse sea fog
Authors: Zhang Chi , Zhang Jianqi , Wu Xin , Huang Melin
Published: August 2020

The presence of sea fog greatly affects both the reflected and transmitted detections when radiation propagates through targets and maritime backgrounds. Thus, the maritime target detections and the remote sensing in oceanic environments would be disturbed by the sea fog. In our work, a poly-disperse sea fog system is introduced. Such a sea fog layer comprises spherical water particles of different radii, where the radii are divided into eight radius regions. The attenuation, asymmetry factors, and absorption probabilities of the radiation interacting with sea fog particles in each radius region are computed using Mie theory. The scattering processes of the radiation in the poly-disperse sea fog layer are traced in our improved Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. This paper presents a new method (named “our method” hereafter) with the intention to provide more accurate calculations on the reflection and transmission when radiation propagates through poly-disperse sea fog media of two different refractive indices. Therein, we investigated the influence of liquid water contents and thicknesses of the poly-disperse sea fog layer on the reflectance and transmittance of the radiation. The results using our MC method compared with those using the previous MC method are also presented. Besides, with three different MC methods along with our method and the previous method, we also inspected how different MC methods affect the calculations of reflectance and transmittance, and it shows manifestation that our method has an advantage over the previous method.
Neocolonial Thinking and Respect for Nature: Do Indigenous People have Different Relationships with Wildlife than Europeans?
Authors: Pierotti Raymond , Fogg Brandy Raelene
Published: August 2020

We respond to Mech (2019) “Do Indigenous American Peoples’ Stories Inform the Study of Dog Domestication” and point out a number of errors and omissions in Mech’s essay. These include: 1) assuming that the behavior of all wild wolves is the same, and can be characterized according only to Mech’s personal experience; 2) assuming that the domestication of wolves took place in only a single location at one time (14,000 yrs BP); 3) misrepresenting the statements and findings of other scholars; 4) assuming that all wolves that have ever encountered humans have experienced persecution; and 5) dismissing all accounts of interactions with wolves by Indigenous Americans. The last of these is particularly egregious and seems to represent a form of neocolonial thinking, in which only accounts and findings by Europeans are considered to be acceptable evidence. Mech’s own work on Ellesmere Island seems to support the idea that wolves can be curious and unthreatening to humans. We suggest that this might be the only actual time Mech interacted with true Canis lupus. In addition, Mech’s statements on wolf attacks and the significance of rabies are shown to be misleading. As a result, Mech’s work, especially his questioning of the validity of Indigenous knowledge, which often provides crucial insights into some aspects of ethnobiological research, represents a critique of methods employed by scholars within the discipline of ethnobiology, whereas, as a wildlife biologist, Mech seems to lack knowledge of the principles of ethnobiology.
Probiotics for Celiac Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Seiler Caroline L. , Kiflen Michel , Stefanolo Juan Pablo , Bai Julio César , Bercik Premysl , Kelly Ciaran P. , Verdu Elena F. , Moayyedi Paul , Pinto-Sanchez Maria Ines
Published: August 2020

INTRODUCTION:

Many patients with celiac disease (CD) experience persistent symptoms despite adhering to the gluten-free diet. Different studies have assessed the use of probiotics as an adjuvant treatment for CD. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in improving gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in patients with CD.

METHODS:

We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and DARE databases up to February 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating probiotics compared with placebo for treating CD. We collected data on GI symptoms, QOL, adverse events, serum tumor necrosis factor-α, intestinal permeability, and microbiota composition.

RESULTS:

We screened 2,831 records and found that 7 articles describing 6 RCTs (n = 5,279 participants) were eligible for quantitative analysis. Probiotics improved GI symptoms when assessed by the GI Symptoms Rating Scale (mean difference symptom reduction: 228.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 243.96–213.52; P = 0.0002). There was no difference in GI symptoms after probiotics when different questionnaires were pooled. The levels of Bifidobacteria increased after probiotics (mean difference: 0.85 log colony-forming units (CFU) per gram; 95% CI 0.38–1.32 log CFU per gram; P = 0.0003). There were insufficient data on tumor necrosis factor-a levels or QOL for probiotics compared with placebo. No difference in adverse events was observed between probiotics and placebo. The overall certainty of the evidence ranged from very low to low.

DISCUSSION:

Probiotics may improve GI symptoms in patients with CD. High-quality clinical trials are needed to improve the certainty in the evidence (see Visual abstract, Supplementary Digital Content 2, http://links.lww.com/AJG/B595).
The Role of Symptom Association Analysis in Gastroesophageal Reflux Testing
Authors: Kamal Afrin N. , Clarke John O. , Oors Jac M. , Smout André J. , Bredenoord Albert J.
Published: August 2020

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is characterized by the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 8%–33%. The current paradigm in gastroesophageal reflux disease diagnosis relies on recognition of symptoms and/or the presence of mucosal disease at the time of esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Recognition of symptoms, however, can arise with challenges, particularly when patients complain of less typical symptoms. Since first reported in 1969 by Spencer et al., the application of prolonged intraesophageal pH monitoring to identify pathologic reflux has evolved considerably. Utility of pH monitoring aims to investigate the degree of acid burden and frequency of reflux episode, and the relationship between symptoms and acid reflux events. This relationship is represented by either the Symptom Index, Symptom Sensitivity Index, Symptom Association Probability, or Ghillebert Probability Estimate. This article reviews symptom-association analysis during esophageal reflux testing, covering the literature on current methods of reflux testing, interpretation of symptom association, and practical issues that can arise during symptom analysis.
The Bowel CLEANsing National Initiative: A Low-Volume Same-Day Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Preparation vs Low-Volume Split-Dose PEG With Bisacodyl or High-Volume Split-Dose PEG Preparations—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Barkun Alan N. , Martel Myriam , Epstein Ian L. , Hallé Pierre , Hilsden Robert J. , James Paul D. , Rostom Alaa , Sey Michael , Singh Harminder , Sultanian Richard , Telford Jennifer J. , von Renteln Daniel
Published: August 2020

INTRODUCTION:

Bowel cleanliness has been shown to be superior with split-dose vs nonsplit preparations; we aimed to directly assess the poorly characterized comparative efficacies of split-dose vs same-day polyethylene glycol (PEG) regimens.

METHODS:

In this study, one of a series of randomized trials performed across 10 Canadian endoscopy units, patients undergoing colonoscopies between 10:30 and 16:30 were allocated to PEG low-volume same-day (15 mg bisacodyl the day before, 2 L the morning of the procedure), low-volume split-dose (15 mg bisacodyl the day before, 1 L + 1 L), or high-volume split-dose (2 L + 2 L). Coprimary endpoints were adequate bowel cleansing based on the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale using in turn different threshold cutoffs.

RESULTS:

Overall, 1,750 subjects were randomized equally across the 3 groups, with no differences in adequate bowel cleanliness rates (low-volume same-day, 90.5%; high-volume split-dose, 92.2%; P = 0.34; and low-volume split-dose, 87.9%; P = 0.17) for the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale ≥6 and 2 for each segment. Willingness to repeat the preparation was not significantly different between low-volume same-day (91.0%) and low-volume split-dose (92.5%; P = 0.40) but was greater than the high-volume split-dose (68.9%; P < 0.01). No significant differences were noted for withdrawal time, cecal intubation, or polyp detection rates.

DISCUSSION:

In this large randomized trial of PEG regimens, low-volume same-day resulted in similar bowel cleanliness compared with high-volume or low-volume split-dosing. Willingness to repeat and tolerability were superior with low-volume same-day compared with high-volume split-dose and similar to low-volume split-dose.