bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Base force element method based on the complementary energy principle for the damage analysis of recycled aggregate concrete
Authors: Wang Yao , Peng Yijiang , Kamel Mahmoud M. A. , Ying Liping
Published: November 2019

The finite element method (FEM) is an effective approach for exploring the failure mechanism of heterogeneous materials. According to the complementary energy principle, the use of FEM might suffer from several difficulties in terms of keeping the elements and their boundaries balanced, as well as finding interpolation functions. In this study, we introduced an efficient approach to researching the failure mechanism of the material, named base force element method (BFEM), according to complementary energy principle. Specifically, the element compliance matrix of an arbitrary quadrilateral element with four mid‐edge nodes was expressed based on the complementary energy principle. Then, the node displacement was obtained by the governing equation using the Lagrange multiplier method. In addition, both the compliance matrix and the node displacement were represented as explicit expressions without the use of Gaussian integration. A numerical model of the recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) was established according to the Monte Carlo method. A comparative sample of the digital image model was also established using digital image technology. The influences of substituting recycled aggregate and the relative mechanical properties of adhered mortar to those of new mortar on the failure mechanism of RAC were studied. The simulation results indicated that the BFEM is an effective approach to researching the damage mechanism of heterogeneous materials.
Switchable dual bonding nature in silabicyclo[1.1.0]butanes that exhibit bond stretch isomerism
Authors: Chinaroj Siwat , Iwamoto Takeaki
Published: November 2019

Silicon analogues of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes are known to exhibit a bond stretch isomerism where the bridgehead SiSi bond changes in both length and geometry. The bridgehead silicon atom of long bond (lb) isomers exhibits an unusual geometry where all the bonds are located on the same hemisphere, making the geometry of the bridgehead SiSi bond the so‐called inverted σ bond in contrast with the typical σ bond geometry found in the short bond (sb) isomers. Herein, the bonding nature of bridgehead SiSi bonds was theoretically investigated in detail using valence bond theory calculation at SL‐BOVB/6‐31G(d) level of theory. Our calculation demonstrates that the bond type of the bridgehead bond depends on the geometry around the bridgehead atoms with those in sb and lb isomers classified as covalent (COV) and charge‐shift (CS) bonds, respectively. The different bond types between two bond stretch isomer indicate that the bonding nature is switchable in one molecule. The detailed examination of the bond stretch isomerization in parent 1,3‐disilabicyclo[1.1.0]butane demonstrated that the enhanced CS bond nature in the lb isomer is mainly attributed to the geometry inversion of the σ bond rather than the bond elongation. This switchable dual bonding nature provides an important platform to compare covalent and CS bond on equal footing for both theoretical and experimental investigations.
Post‐discharge respiratory outcomes of children with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Boucher Valérie , Mathy Clémence , Lacroix Jacques , Émériaud Guillaume , Jouvet Philippe , Tse Sze Man
Published: November 2019

Objectives

While long‐term sequelae of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are well‐documented in adults, few studies reported post‐discharge respiratory complications in pediatric ARDS (PARDS) and none used the recent Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) diagnostic criteria. This study describes the respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, and health resource use of PARDS survivors at 3 months post‐discharge.

Design

Retrospective study.

Patient Selection

Children less than 18 years admitted to the intensive care unit of Sainte‐Justine University Health Center from 1st September 2015 to 1st July 2017, and meeting PALICC diagnostic criteria for PARDS.

Methods

We evaluated 38 of the 44 children with PARDS in the follow‐up clinic at a mean (SD) of 3.4 (2.0) months post‐discharge for respiratory symptoms, age‐appropriate pulmonary function tests (spirometry or oscillometry, maximal respiratory pressures), and all‐cause emergency department (ED) visits or rehospitalizations since discharge.

Results

Fourteen (36.8%) had abnormal respiratory symptoms (most commonly cough between respiratory infections and wheezing), 7 of whom (18.4%) presented new respiratory symptoms since PARDS diagnosis. A mild‐to‐moderate restrictive pattern was observed in 3 of 10 patients who performed spirometry and mildly decreased maximal inspiratory pressures were noted in 2 of 8 patients who performed these maneuvers. Nine (23.7%) patients consulted in the ED and 4 (10.5%) were rehospitalized post‐discharge.

Conclusions

Despite our cohort's limited sample size, our findings suggest that a significant proportion of PARDS survivors experience abnormal respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function deficits, and recurrent problems requiring medical attention. Larger, multicenter studies are required to identify risk factors associated with poor post‐discharge outcomes among PARDS survivors.
Genotype and phenotype evaluation of patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia: First results from Turkey
Authors: Emiralioğlu Nagehan , Taşkıran Ekim Z. , Koşukcu Can , Bilgiç Elif , Atilla Pergin , Kaya Bengisu , Günaydın Önder , Yüzbaşıoğlu Ayşe , Tuğcu Gökçen Dilşa , Ademhan Dilber , Eryılmaz Polat Sanem , Gharibzadeh Hızal Mina , Yalçın Ebru , Doğru Deniz , Kiper Nural , Alikaşifoğlu Mehmet , Özçelik Uğur
Published: November 2019

Background and objective

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare and genetically heterogeneous disease and the severity of the disease related with genetic analysis has been described in some previous studies. The main aim of our study was to describe the clinical characteristics and laboratory findings of patients with genetically diagnosed PCD and to investigate the correlation between clinical, radiologic, and laboratory findings and genetic analyses of these patients.

Method

This is a cohort study in which we analyzed the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and genetic results of 46 patients with genetically diagnosed PCD through whole‐exome sequencing at our single center from a total of 265 patients with PCD within a 5‐year period.

Results

Genetic analysis revealed pathogenic variants in DNAH5 (n = 12 individuals, 12 families), CCDC40 (n = 9 individuals, six families), RSPH4A (n = 5 individuals, three families), DNAH11 (n = 4 individuals, four families), HYDIN (n = 5 individuals, five families), CCNO (n = 4 individuals, four families), DNAI1 (n = 2 individuals, one family), ARMC4 (n = 2 individuals, two families), TTC25 (n = 1), DNAH1 (n = 1), and CCDC39 (n = 1) genes. Although not statistically significant, the age at diagnosis was lower (median: 3 years; range, 6 months‐4 years) in patients with CCNO pathogenic variants due to the early reporting of symptoms, and the median body mass index (BMI) and BMI z scores were lower in patients at 18.7 and 16 kg/m2, and −0.78 and −1.2 with CCDC40 and CCNO pathogenic variants, respectively. The median forced expiratory flow in 1 second (FEV1%), forced vital capacity (FVC%), and forced expiratory flow (FEF)25‐75% were 53%, 64%, and 28%, respectively; these parameters were also lower in the CCDC40 group than in the other groups. There was no significant correlation between the genetic results and symptoms, radiologic findings, and microbiologic data of patients with PCD.

Conclusion

In PCD, there was significant heterogeneity of lung disease, patients who had pathogenic variants in CCNO presented earlier, and those with CCDC40 and CCNO had worse lung disease, and poorer nutritional status compared with the other subgroups. We hope that whole genotype‐phenotype and clinical relationships will be identified in PCD.
Heterogeneity of human prostate carcinoma‐associated fibroblasts implicates a role for subpopulations in myeloid cell recruitment
Authors: Vickman Renee E. , Broman Meaghan M. , Lanman Nadia A. , Franco Omar E. , Sudyanti Putu Ayu G. , Ni Yang , Ji Yuan , Helfand Brian T. , Petkewicz Jacqueline , Paterakos Michael C. , Crawford Susan E. , Ratliff Timothy L. , Hayward Simon W.
Published: November 2019

Background

Carcinoma–associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a heterogeneous group of cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that can promote tumorigenesis in the prostate. By understanding the mechanism(s) by which CAF contributes to tumor growth, new therapeutic targets for the management of this disease may be identified. These studies determined whether unique sub‐populations of human prostate CAF can be identified and functionally characterized.

Methods

Single‐cell RNA‐seq of primary human prostate CAF followed by unsupervised clustering was utilized to generate cell clusters based on differentially expressed (DE) gene profiles. Potential communication between CAF and immune cells was analyzed using in vivo tissue recombination by combining CAF or normal prostate fibroblasts (NPF) with non‐tumorigenic, initiated prostate epithelial BPH‐1 cells. Resultant grafts were assessed for inflammatory cell recruitment.

Results

Clustering of 3321 CAF allows for visualization of six subpopulations, demonstrating heterogeneity within CAF. Sub‐renal capsule recombination assays show that the presence of CAF significantly increases myeloid cell recruitment to resultant tumors. This is supported by significantly increased expression of chemotactic chemokines CCL2 and CXCL12 in large clusters compared to other subpopulations. Bayesian analysis topologies also support differential communication signals between chemokine‐related genes of individual clusters. Migration of THP‐1 monocyte cells in vitro is stimulated in the presence of CAF conditioned medium (CM) compared with NPF CM. Further in vitro analyses suggest that CAF‐derived chemokine CCL2 may be responsible for CAF‐stimulated migration of THP‐1 cells, since neutralization of this chemokine abrogates migration capacity.

Conclusions

CAF clustering based on DE gene expression supports the concept that clusters have unique functions within the TME, including a role in immune/inflammatory cell recruitment. These data suggest that CCL2 produced by CAF may be involved in the recruitment of inflammatory cells, but may also directly regulate the growth of the tumor. Further studies aimed at characterizing the subpopulation(s) of CAF which promote immune cell recruitment to the TME and/or stimulate prostate cancer growth and progression will be pursued.
Resilience‐based component importance measures
Authors: Wen Meilin , Chen Yubing , Yang Yi , Kang Rui , Zhang Yanbo
Published: November 2019

The resilience of critical infrastructures has become a major concern throughout the design, operation, and maintenance process in recent years. While traditional evaluation measures are mainly concerned with complete and timely restoration, this work considers simultaneously the cases where systems fail to recover thoroughly or timely. We define resilient limit and propose a new resilience evaluation framework for systems suffering different levels of breakdowns. Furthermore, from perspectives of topological structure, cold standby, and resilient limit of components, this paper proposes three resilience‐based importance measures, namely, structure importance, redundancy importance, and reinforcement importance. Finally, we demonstrate our method with a numerical example, illustrating its effectiveness as a tool to evaluate the influences of component resilience characteristics on the overall system.
Forschung und Innovation für den Metallleichtbau an der RWTH Aachen University
Authors: Kuhnhenne Markus , Pyschny Dominik , Brieden Matthias , Reger Vitali , Vontein Marius , Janczyk Kevin , Mehrtens Peter , Pauli Gesa
Published: November 2019

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die bisherigen Aktivitäten der Professur „Nachhaltigkeit im Metallleichtbau”, welche zum 1. Juli 2015 an der RWTH Aachen University eingerichtet wurde und vom Internationalen Verband für den Metallleichtbau (IFBS) unterstützt und gefördert wird. Die Professur, bekleidet von Univ.‐Prof. Dr.‐Ing. Markus Kuhnhenne, beschäftigt sich in Forschung und Lehre mit Aspekten des statisch‐konstruktiven Entwurfs, der Bauphysik und insbesondere der Nachhaltigkeit von Gebäudehüllen mit Metallleichtbauelementen. Es werden die aktuellen Entwicklungen zu energetischen Anforderungen im Gebäudebereich beschrieben, um im Anschluss die laufenden Forschungsprojekte und ‐netzwerke der Professur im Einzelnen vorzustellen.
Simplified assessment of the need to use the explicit model of reinforced concrete beam‐column joints instead of the centreline model
Authors: Costa Ricardo , Providência Paulo , Gomes Fernando
Published: November 2019

This paper considers the structural modeling of reinforced concrete beam‐column (RCBC) joints of unbraced framed structures. The main objective is to establish a formula that determines, for each particular situation, if the centreline joint model may be used or if an explicit model, which although more accurate is also more complex, is required. Accordingly, in order to circumvent the need to analyze the full frame and to avoid the shortcomings of empirical procedures we derive simplified classification criteria (SCC) based on the stiffness of the joint components. By applying these SCC to a given RCBC joint, it is classified either as semi‐rigid, meaning that an explicit model is required, or as nominally rigid otherwise. The determination of the parameters that are required by the SCC is fully discussed. The presented example illustrates the application of the developed SSC to particular RCBC joints, showing that its results are mainly confirmed by the analysis of the full frame to which they pertain.
Soziale Netzwerke und Behinderung – Zugang und Stabilisierung der Einbindung in den allgemeinen Arbeitsmarkt
Authors: Zapfel Stefan , Reims Nancy , Niehaus Mathilde
Published: November 2019

Die arbeitsmarktbezogene Behinderungs- und Rehabilitationsforschung verzichtet bisher weitestgehend auf die Verwendung von Netzwerktheorien. Ihr Analyse- und Erklärungspotenzial wurde daher auf diesem Gebiet bei weitem noch nicht ausgeschöpft.

Behinderungen stehen jedoch in engem Zusammenhang mit Genese und Stabilität von Netzwerken, die ihrerseits mit Zugang und Kontinuität von Beschäftigungsverhältnissen korrespondieren.

Wohlfahrtsstaatliche Regelungen und Institutionen (z. B. Schwerbehindertenvertretung, Betriebliches Eingliederungsmanagement, Zentrale Auslands- und Fachvermittlung der Bundesagentur für Arbeit, Einrichtungen der beruflichen Rehabilitation) bieten Menschen mit Behinderung die Möglichkeit, Netzwerkkontakte (wieder) aufzubauen oder zu erweitern und Anschluss an den Arbeitsmarkt zu finden bzw. diesen aufrechtzuerhalten.
Follow-up imaging after cryoablation of clear cell renal cell carcinoma is feasible using single photon emission computed tomography with 111In-girentuximab
Authors: van Oostenbrugge Tim J. , Langenhuijsen Johan F. , Oosterwijk Egbert , Boerman Otto C. , Jenniskens Sjoerd F. , Oyen Wim J. G. , Fütterer Jurgen J. , Mulders Peter F. A.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Detection of residual or recurrent vital renal tumor on follow-up (FU) cross-sectional imaging after ablative therapy is challenging. The specific and high expression levels of carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) makes it a suitable target for imaging using radiolabeled anti-CAIX antibody girentuximab. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of targeted FU imaging 1 month after cryoablation of ccRCC using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) after 111In-labeled girentuximab administration.

Methods

In this prospective study 16 patients underwent 111In-girentuximab-SPECT before MR-guided renal cryoablation between February 2015 and September 2018. In case of tumor targeting 111In-girentuximab-SPECT was repeated 1 month following MR-guided cryoablation. Presence of residual or recurrent vital tumor was assessed on contrast-enhanced cross-sectional imaging during further FU. The standard FU imaging protocol consisted of MRI/CT scans at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months and annually thereafter.

Results

A total of 10 (63%) patients showed positive tumor targeting on 111In-girentuximab-SPECT before cryoablation and 9 ( 56%) were eligible to undergo FU SPECT. Of the 9 111In-girentuximab-SPECT FU scans, 8 (89%) were considered negative. One (11%) scan showed uptake suggestive for residual vital tumor. Six months after treatment, FU CT showed contrast enhancement suggestive for residual/recurrent disease in the ablated zone at the site of the 111In-girentuximab uptake after treatment. During a mean FU of 21 months (range 1–33) no other cases with residual/recurrent disease were detected.

Conclusion

FU imaging with 111In-girentuximab-SPECT is feasible after ccRCC cryoablation and may contribute to early detection of residual or recurrent disease.
Henneguya (Cnidaria: Myxosporea: Myxobolidae) infections of cultured barramundi, Lates calcarifer (Perciformes: Latidae) in an estuarine wetlands system of Malaysia: description of Henneguya setiuensis n. sp., Henneguya voronini n. sp. and Henneguya calcarifer n. sp.
Authors: Borkhanuddin Muhammad Hafiz , Cech Gábor , Molnár Kálmán , Shaharom-Harrison Faizah , Khoa Tran Nguyen Duy , Samshuri Muhammad Arif , Mazelan Suhairi , Atkinson Stephen D. , Székely Csaba
Published: November 2019

Examination of 35 barramundi (Lates calcarifer) from aquaculture cages in Setiu Wetland, Malaysia, revealed a single fish infected with three Henneguya spp. (Cnidaria: Myxosporea). Characterization of the infections using tissue tropism, myxospore morphology and morphometry and 18S rDNA sequencing supported description of three new species: Henneguya setiuensis n. sp., Henneguya voronini n. sp. and H. calcarifer n. sp. Myxospores of all three species had typical Henneguya morphology, with two polar capsules in the plane of the suture, an oval spore body, smooth valve cell surfaces, and two caudal appendages. Spores were morphometrically similar, and many dimensions overlapped, but H. voronini n. sp. had shorter caudal appendages compared with H. calcarifer n. sp. and H. setiuensis n. sp. Gross tissue tropism distinguished the muscle parasite H. calcarifer n. sp. from gill parasites H. setiuensis n. sp. and H. voronini n. sp.; and these latter two species were further separable by fine-scale location of developing plasmodia, which were intra-lamellar for H. setiuensis n. sp. and basal to the filaments for H. voronini n. sp. small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences distinguished all three species: the two gill species H. setiuensis n. sp. and H voronini n. sp. were only 88% similar (over 1708 bp), whereas the muscle species H. calcarifer n. sp. was most similar to H. voronini n. sp. (98% over 1696 bp). None of the three novel species was more than 90% similar to any known myxosporean sequence in GenBank. Low infection prevalence of these myxosporeans and lack of obvious tissue pathology from developing plasmodia suggested none of these parasites are currently a problem for barramundi culture in Setiu Wetland; however additional surveys of fish, particularly at different times of the year, would be informative for better risk assessment.
Optical cellulose fiber made from regenerated cellulose and cellulose acetate for water sensor applications
Authors: Orelma H. , Hokkanen A. , Leppänen I. , Kammiovirta K. , Kapulainen M. , Harlin A.
Published: November 2019

In this study an optical cellulose fiber for water sensoring was prepared by using a sequential preparation strategy. The core of the fiber was prepared from dissolved cellulose, in [EMIM]OAc, which was dry–wet spun into water. The cladding layer on the cellulose core was produced by coating a layer of cellulose acetate, dissolved in acetone, using a filament coater. The chemical and optical properties of both regenerated cellulose and cellulose acetate were studied from cast films using ultraviolet–visible and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy measurements. Regenerated cellulose film was observed to absorb UV light, passing the visible light wavelengths. Cellulose acetate film was observed to pass the whole light wavelength range. The mechanical strength and topography of the prepared optical cellulose fiber were investigated through tensile testing and SEM imaging. The mechanical performance of the fiber was similar to previously reported values in the literature (tensile strength of 120 MPa). The prepared optical fiber guided light in the range of 500–1400 nm. The attenuation constant of the cellulose fiber was observed to be 6.3 dB/cm at 1300 nm. The use of prepared optical cellulose fiber in a water sensor application was demonstrated. When the fiber was placed in water, a clear attenuation in the light intensity was observed. The studied optical fiber could be used in sensor applications, in which easy modifiability and high thermal resistance are beneficial characteristics.

Graphic abstract

Coaxial cellulose acetate-regenerated cellulose fiber for transporting light in sensor optical fiber sensor applications.
Phase space structures causing the reaction rate decrease in the collinear hydrogen exchange reaction
Authors: Krajňák Vladimír , Waalkens Holger
Published: November 2019

The collinear hydrogen exchange reaction is a paradigm system for understanding chemical reactions. It is the simplest imaginable atomic system with 2 degrees of freedom modeling a chemical reaction, yet it exhibits behaviour that is still not well understood—the reaction rate decreases as a function of energy beyond a critical value. Using lobe dynamics we show how invariant manifolds of unstable periodic orbits guide trajectories in phase space. From the structure of the invariant manifolds we deduce that insufficient transfer of energy between the degrees of freedom causes a reaction rate decrease. In physical terms this corresponds to the free hydrogen atom repelling the whole molecule instead of only one atom from the molecule. We further derive upper and lower bounds of the reaction rate, which are desirable for practical reasons.
NMR Investigation into the Influence of Surface Interactions on Liquid Diffusion in a Mesoporous Catalyst Support
Authors: Robinson Neil , D’Agostino Carmine
Published: November 2019

Pulsed field gradient NMR diffusion measurements provide a non-invasive measure of the mass transport (self-diffusion) characteristics of liquids confined to porous catalyst materials. Here we explore the ability of this technique to probe the diffusive behaviour of a series of short-chain primary alcohols within a mesoporous catalyst support material; through the comparison of our results with highly surface-sensitive NMR relaxation data, we show that the evaluation of bulk-pore diffusion dynamics may provide a simple and indirect method to access and explore surface interaction phenomena occurring at the catalyst-liquid interface.
Association of High Serum Levels of Growth Factors with Good Outcome in Ischemic Stroke: a Multicenter Study
Authors: Sobrino Tomás , Rodríguez-Yáñez Manuel , Campos Francisco , Iglesias-Rey Ramón , Millán Mónica , de la Ossa Natalia Pérez , Dávalos Antonio , Delgado-Mederos Raquel , Martínez-Domeño Alejandro , Martí-Fábregas Joan , Castellanos Mar , Serena Joaquín , Lago Aida , Díez-Tejedor Exuperio , Castillo José
Published: November 2019

The main objective of this research work was to study the association of serum levels of growth factors (GF) and SDF-1α with the functional outcome and reduction of lesion volume in ischemic stroke patients. In this multicenter study, 552 patients with non-lacunar stroke (male, 62.1%; mean age, 68.2 ± 11.4) were included within 24 h from symptom onset. The main outcome variable was good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] ≤ 2) at 12 months. Secondary outcome variable was infarct volume (in mL) after 6 ± 3 months. Serum levels of VEGF, Ang-1, G-CSF, BDNF, and SDF-1α were measured by ELISA at admission, 7 ± 1 days, at 3 ± 1 months, and 12 ± 3 months. Except for BDNF, all GF and SDF-1α serum levels showed a peak value at day 7 and remained elevated during the first 3 months (allp< 0.01). High serum levels at day 7 of VEGF (OR, 19.3), Ang-1 (OR, 14.7), G-CSF (OR, 9.6), and SDF-1α (OR, 28.5) were independently associated with good outcome at 12 months (allp< 0.0001). On the other hand, serum levels of VEGF (B, − 21.4), G-CSF (B, − 14.0), Ang-1 (B, − 13.3), and SDF-1α (B, − 44.6) measured at day 7 were independently associated with lesion volume at 6 months (p< 0.01). In summary, high serum levels of VEGF, Ang-1, G-CSF, and SDF-1α at day 7 and 3 months after ischemic stroke are associated with good functional outcome and smaller residual lesion at 1 year of follow-up.
Is there any gender gap in the production of legumes in Malawi? Evidence from the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition model
Authors: Joe-Nkamuke Uzoamaka , Olagunju Kehinde Oluseyi , Njuguna-Mungai Esther , Mausch Kai
Published: November 2019

Understanding the gender differences in agricultural productivity is crucial for formulating informed and effective policies to sustainably improve low productivity which characterises agriculture in Sub-Sahara Africa. Using a panel dataset from the ICRISAT led Tropical Legumes project III (2008–2013), we analyse the gender gap in the production of legumes in Malawi. Employing the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition method allows decomposition of gender gap into the following: (i) the portion caused by observable differences in the factors of production (endowment effect) and (ii) the unexplained portion caused by differences in return to the same observed factors of production (structural effect). We conducted the empirical analysis separately for pigeonpea and groundnut. Our findings reveal that for groundnut cultivated plots, women are 28% less productive than men after controlling for observed factors of production; however, the gender gap estimated in the pigeonpea cultivated plots are not statistically significant. The decomposition estimates reveal that the endowment effect is more relevant than the structural effect, suggesting that access to productive inputs contributes largest to the gender gap in groundnut productivity, and if women involved had access to equal level of inputs, the gap will be reduced significantly. The variation in the findings for groundnut and pigeon plot suggests that policy orientation towards reducing gender productivity gap should be crop specific.
Children’s Aspirations Towards Science-related Careers
Authors: Sheldrake Richard , Mujtaba Tamjid
Published: November 2019

Science-related careers are often considered to be less accessible by many children. More research is needed to distinguish any influences from different aspects of life so that support and/or interventions can be focused to help mitigate any disadvantage and inaccessibility. In order to gain greater understanding of constraints or influences on children’s aspirations towards science-related careers, a nationally-representative cohort of 7820 children in England was considered at age 11 and at age 14. At age 11, children’s science-related career aspirations were predictively associated with their ethnicity, gender, and science self-confidence, and also (at lower magnitudes) with the children’s motivation towards school and indicators of family advantage. At age 14, children’s aspirations were predictively associated with their prior aspirations (as of age 11), science self-confidence (as of age 14), and again with ethnicity and gender. Notably, these gender and ethnicity associations varied when considering specific aspirations towards science/engineering and towards medicine/health: boys were more likely to express science/engineering aspirations and less likely to express medicine/health aspirations; concurrently, children from some minority ethnic backgrounds were less likely to express science/engineering aspirations and more likely to express medicine/health aspirations. Overall, the findings suggest that support after age 11 still needs to promote the feasibility of different science careers for all children.
Scientific Review Committees as part of institutional review of human participant research: Initial implementation at institutions with Clinical and Translational Science Awards
Authors: Selker Harry P. , Welch Lisa C. , Patchen-Fowler Elizabeth , Breeze Janis L. , Terrin Norma , Parajulee Anshu , LeClair Amy , Naeim Arash , Marnocha Rebecca , Morelli Novak Julie , Caldwell Christine Sego , Cola Philip A. , Croker Jennifer A. , Cifu David X. , Williams Kirsten M. , Snyder Denise C. , Kitterman Darlene
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Scientific quality and feasibility are part of ethics review by Institutional Review Boards (IRBs). Scientific Review Committees (SRCs) were proposed to facilitate this assessment by the Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) SRC Consensus Group. This study assessed SRC feasibility and impact at CTSA-affiliated academic health centers (AHCs).

Methods:

SRC implementation at 10 AHCs was assessed pre/post-intervention using quantitative and qualitative methods. Pre-intervention, four AHCs had no SRC, and six had at least one SRC needing modifications to better align with Consensus Group recommendations.

Results:

Facilitators of successful SRC implementation included broad-based communication, an external motivator, senior-level support, and committed SRC reviewers. Barriers included limited resources and staffing, variable local mandates, limited SRC authority, lack of anticipated benefit, and operational challenges. Research protocol quality did not differ significantly between study periods, but respondents suggested positive effects. During intervention, median total review duration did not lengthen for the 40% of protocols approved within 3 weeks. For the 60% under review after 3 weeks, review was lengthened primarily due to longer IRB review for SRC-reviewed protocols. Site interviews recommended designing locally effective SRC processes, building buy-in by communication or by mandate, allowing time for planning and sharing best practices, and connecting SRC and IRB procedures.

Conclusions:

The CTSA SRC Consensus Group recommendations appear feasible. Although not conclusive in this relatively short initial implementation, sites perceived positive impact by SRCs on study quality. Optimal benefit will require local or federal mandate for implementation, adapting processes to local contexts, and employing SRC stipulations.
New estimates of orangutan density in Sungai Palin watershed, Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Yanuar Achmad , Fehse Jan , Chivers David , Sugardjito Jito
Published: November 2019

Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus is a subspecies of Bornean orangutan whose distribution is restricted to the northern part of the Kapuas River, West Kalimantan, and is categorized as Critically Endangered. In October 2017 we carried out a survey to estimate orangutan density in the peat-swamp forests of the Sungai Palin watershed, of the upper Kapuas river, Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Surveys for orangutans in 1991, in nearby Nanga Awen, had indicated the presence of orangutans in the peat-swamp forests of this area. We used distance sampling techniques to estimate orangutan densities from nest observations. We recorded 76 orangutan nests along 4.5 km transects in Sungai Palin in 2017, and 71 orangutan nests were observed along 4.3 km transects in Nanga Awen in 1991, giving densities of 1.29 and 2.62 individuals/km2, respectively. The results of this orangutan survey can be used as a baseline for monitoring of orangutan populations for conservation and management of this watershed landscape.
A tale of two frequency effects: Toward a verification model of L2 word recognition
Authors: Jiang Nan , Li Man , Guo Taomei
Published: November 2019

This study examined the activation of first language (L1) translations in second language (L2) word recognition in a lexical decision task. Test materials included English words that differed in the frequency of their Chinese translations or in their surface lexical frequency while other lexical properties were controlled. Chinese speakers of English as a second language of different proficiencies and native speakers of English were tested. Native speakers produced a reliable lexical frequency effect but no translation frequency effect. English as a second language speakers of lower English proficiency showed both a translation frequency effect and a lexical frequency effect, but those of higher English proficiency showed a lexical frequency effect only. The results were discussed in a verification model of L2 word recognition. According to the model, L2 word recognition entails a checking procedure in which activated L2 words are checked against their L1 translations. The two frequency effects are seen to have two different loci. The lexical frequency effect is associated with the initial activation of L2 lemmas, and the translation frequency effect arises in the verification process. Existing evidence for verification in L2 word recognition and new issues this model raises are discussed.
Dynamic Modeling of Underwater Multi-Hull Vehicles
Authors: Ingrosso Roberta , De Palma Daniela , Avanzini Giulio , Indiveri Giovanni
Published: November 2019

This paper describes a modeling approach to compute the lumped parameter hydrodynamic derivative matrices of an underwater multi-hull vehicle. The vehicle, modeled as a multi-body underwater system and denoted as cluster, can be composed by heterogeneous bodies with known dynamic parameters, rigidly connected. The nonlinear dynamic equations of the cluster and its parameters are derived by means of a modular approach, based on the composition of single basic elements. The ultimate objective is to derive a mathematical description of the multi-hull system that captures its most significant dynamics allowing to design model-based motion controllers and navigation filters. The modular nature of the resulting model can be exploited, by example, when control reconfiguration is to be dealt with in the presence of (possibly multiple) failures. The numerical simulation of a hypothetical cluster is presented and discussed.
A sketch drawing humanoid robot using image-based visual servoing
Authors: Lau Meng-Cheng , Anderson John , Baltes Jacky
Published: November 2019

This paper presents our sketch drawing artist humanoid robot research. One of the limitations of the existing artist humanoid robot is the lack of feedback on the error that occurs during the drawing process. The contribution of this research is the development of a humanoid robot artist with drawing error correction capability. Based on our previous work with open-loop control pen-and-ink humanoid robot artist, we have implemented a closed-loop visual servoing approach to address this problem. Our experimental results show that this approach is sufficient to correct drawing errors that occur due to mechanical limitation of a robot.
Late manifestation coarctation of the aorta in a premature infant 4-month post-percutaneous device closure of a patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Serrano Ryan M. , Rodefeld Mark D. , Alexy Ryan
Published: November 2019

Patent ductus arteriosus is the most common cardiovascular abnormality in premature infants. With newly available percutaneous devices, centres are reporting high rates of success and favourable safety profiles with percutaneous closure of haemodynamically significant ductus arteriosi in infants under 1000 g. We report the case of a 5-week-old, previous 25-week gestation, 1200-g infant who underwent successful percutaneous closure of a ductus arteriosus with a Medtronic Microvascular Plug but who developed late-term coarctation from the device. This case should prompt practitioners to consider the need and timing of follow-up echocardiograms in this population and sheds light on a newly reported long-term complication of device closure in premature infants.
Interventions In Asthma and COPD
Authors: Mandovra Neha P. , Leuppi Jörg D. , Herth Felix J. F. , Chhajed Prashant N.
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Advanced emphysema and asthma constitute major health burden worldwide and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacological options are limited. Researches are being carried out aiming to modify the natural course of both the diseases. Lung volume reduction surgeries are performed in advanced emphysema but are associated with significant morbidity and prolonged hospital stay. Various minimally invasive bronchoscopic methods have been developed with the goal of achieving clinical benefits of volume reduction surgery but lower complications. Bronchial thermoplasty is a bronchoscopic method of delivering controlled heat in the airways to reduce airway smooth muscle mass, thereby reducing bronchoconstriction in patients with severe asthma who remain uncontrolled despite optimal medical therapy. Various randomised controlled trials have been performed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of various endoscopic treatments like valves, coils, use of sclerosants and targeted lung denervation for severe emphysema and bronchial thermoplasty in severe asthma. The current review summaries the clinical trial evidence available for lung volume reduction in emphysema and thermoplasty in asthma and provide guidance for optimal patient selection for various therapies available.
Inhalative Therapie bei COPD und Asthma
Authors: Gregoriano Claudia , Tschacher Anne , Grendelmeier Peter , Cadus Cordula
Published: November 2019

Zusammenfassung. Die inhalative Therapie ist nach wie vor sowohl bei der COPD als auch beim Asthma eine wichtige Säule der Behandlung. Bei Asthma Patienten stehen primär die inhalativen Kortikosteroide im Vordergrund der Behandlung, während bei COPD Patienten vor allem Bronchodilatatoren eingesetzt werden. In den letzten Jahren änderte sich der Stellenwert der inhalativen Kortikosteroide in der COPD- Therapie immer wieder und aktuell scheinen sie für eine Subgruppe von Patienten wieder mehr an Bedeutung zu gewinnen. Auch bei den inhalativen Therapien wird man sich in Zukunft zunehmend an Biomarkern orientieren. Neu auf dem Markt sind die «Triple Therapien als Fixkombinationen», deren Erfolg sich in den nächsten Jahren zeigen wird. Trotz der grossen Vielfalt an neuen Wirkstoffen, neuen Kombinationen und neuen Inhalationssystemen, ist es wichtig eine gute Übersicht zu behalten und den individuellen Nutzen des Patienten in den Mittelpunkt zu stellen. Ziel ist es aus der Fülle der Angebote, die für den individuellen Patienten geeigneten Präparate in einer für ihn ideal anwendbaren Darreichungsform zu finden. Eine korrekte Inhalationstechnik und Adhärenz zum verschriebenen Therapieplan ist für den Erfolg der inhalativen Therapie entscheidend.
Is There an Influence of the Pole Tide on Volcanism? Insights From Mount Etna Recent Activity
Authors: Lambert S. , Sottili G.
Published: November 2019

We investigate a possible link between polar motion and (i) seismic energy release and (ii) timing and intensity of eruptions at Mount Etna (Italy) for which a dense observational database is available. Our study suggests that the seismicity around Mount Etna increases during the largest excursions of the Earth rotation pole, which result from the constructive interference of the climate‐driven seasonal and Chandler wobbles. To a lesser extent, a similar link is detected between the pole tide and the erupted volume of magma. We infer that, by creating periodic changes in the state of stress in the crust through a variable centrifugal force and a periodic vertical displacement (pole tide), variations in polar motion influence eruption timing and magnitude and the rate of seismic energy release from volcanoes. This study provides new evidences on the sensitivity of volcanoes to external forcing.
Determinants of new onset cardiometabolic risk among normal weight children
Authors: Van Hulst Andraea , Ybarra Marina , Mathieu Marie-Eve , Benedetti Andrea , Paradis Gilles , Henderson Mélanie
Published: November 2019

Objective

To identify determinants for the development of “normal weight metabolically unhealthy” (NWMU) profiles among previously metabolically healthy normal weight children.

Methods

The QUALITY cohort comprises youth 8–10 years of age with a parental history of obesity (n = 630). Of these, normal weight children with no metabolic risk factors were identified and followed up 2 years later (n = 193). Children were classified as NWMU if they remained normal weight but developed at least one cardiometabolic risk factor. They were classified as normal weight metabolically healthy otherwise. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify whether adiposity (anthropometrics and DXA), lifestyle habits (physical activity, screen time, vegetables, and fruit- and sugar-sweetened beverages intake), fitness, and family history of cardiometabolic disease were associated with new onset NWMU.

Results

Of the 193 normal weight and metabolically healthy children at baseline, 45 (23%) became NWMU 2 years later (i.e., 48% had elevated HDL cholesterol, 13% had elevated triglycerides, and 4% had impaired fasting glucose). Changes in adiposity between baseline and follow-up were associated with an increased risk of NWMU for all adiposity measures examined (e.g., for ∆zBMI OR = 3.95; 95% CI: 1.76, 8.83). Similarly, a 2-year change in screen time was associated with incident NWMU status (OR = 1.24; 95% CI 1.04, 1.49).

Conclusions

Children who increase their adiposity levels as they enter puberty, despite remaining normal weight, are at risk of developing cardiometabolic risk factors. Studies examining long-term consequences of NWMU profiles in pediatrics are needed to determine whether changes in screening practice are warranted.
Schwann cells support oncogenic potential of pancreatic cancer cells through TGFβ signaling
Authors: Roger Elodie , Martel Sylvie , Bertrand-Chapel Adrien , Depollier Arnaud , Chuvin Nicolas , Pommier Roxane M. , Yacoub Karam , Caligaris Cassandre , Cardot-Ruffino Victoire , Chauvet Véronique , Aires Sophie , Mohkam Kayvan , Mabrut Jean-Yves , Adham Mustapha , Fenouil Tanguy , Hervieu Valérie , Broutier Laura , Castets Marie , Neuzillet Cindy , Cassier Philippe A. , Tomasini Richard , Sentis Stéphanie , Bartholin Laurent
Published: November 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the solid tumors with the poorest prognosis. The stroma of this tumor is abundant and composed of extracellular matrix and stromal cells (including cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells). Nerve fibers invading this stroma represent a hallmark of PDAC, involved in neural remodeling, which participates in neuropathic pain, cancer cell dissemination and tumor relapse after surgery. Pancreatic cancer-associated neural remodeling is regulated through functional interplays mediated by physical and molecular interactions between cancer cells, nerve cells and surrounding Schwann cells, and other stromal cells. In the present study, we show that Schwann cells (glial cells supporting peripheral neurons) can enhance aggressiveness (migration, invasion, tumorigenicity) of pancreatic cancer cells in a transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-dependent manner. Indeed, we reveal that conditioned medium from Schwann cells contains high amounts of TGFβ able to activate the TGFβ-SMAD signaling pathway in cancer cells. We also observed in human PDAC samples that high levels of TGFβ signaling activation were positively correlated with perineural invasion. Secretome analyses by mass spectrometry of Schwann cells and pancreatic cancer cells cultured alone or in combination highlighted the central role of TGFβ in neuro-epithelial interactions, as illustrated by proteomic signatures related to cell adhesion and motility. Altogether, these results demonstrate that Schwann cells are a meaningful source of TGFβ in PDAC, which plays a crucial role in the acquisition of aggressive properties by pancreatic cancer cells.
Understanding carbon dioxide activation and carbon–carbon coupling over nickel
Authors: Vogt Charlotte , Monai Matteo , Sterk Ellen B. , Palle Jonas , Melcherts Angela E. M. , Zijlstra Bart , Groeneveld Esther , Berben Peter H. , Boereboom Jelle M. , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Meirer Florian , Filot Ivo A. W. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: November 2019

Carbon dioxide is a desired feedstock for platform molecules, such as carbon monoxide or higher hydrocarbons, from which we will be able to make many different useful, value-added chemicals. Its catalytic hydrogenation over abundant metals requires the amalgamation of theoretical knowledge with materials design. Here we leverage a theoretical understanding of structure sensitivity, along with a library of different supports, to tune the selectivity of methanation in the Power-to-Gas concept over nickel. For example, we show that carbon dioxide hydrogenation over nickel can and does form propane, and that activity and selectivity can be tuned by supporting different nickel particle sizes on various oxides. This theoretical and experimental toolbox is not only useful for the highly selective production of methane, but also provides new insights for carbon dioxide activation and subsequent carbon–carbon coupling towards value-added products thereby reducing the deleterious effects of this environmentally harmful molecule.
Missing self triggers NK cell-mediated chronic vascular rejection of solid organ transplants
Authors: Koenig Alice , Chen Chien-Chia , Marçais Antoine , Barba Thomas , Mathias Virginie , Sicard Antoine , Rabeyrin Maud , Racapé Maud , Duong-Van-Huyen Jean-Paul , Bruneval Patrick , Loupy Alexandre , Dussurgey Sébastien , Ducreux Stéphanie , Meas-Yedid Vannary , Olivo-Marin Jean-Christophe , Paidassi Héléna , Guillemain Romain , Taupin Jean-Luc , Callemeyn Jasper , Morelon Emmanuel , Nicoletti Antonino , Charreau Béatrice , Dubois Valérie , Naesens Maarten , Walzer Thierry , Defrance Thierry , Thaunat Olivier
Published: November 2019

Current doctrine is that microvascular inflammation (MVI) triggered by a transplant -recipient antibody response against alloantigens (antibody-mediated rejection) is the main cause of graft failure. Here, we show that histological lesions are not mediated by antibodies in approximately half the participants in a cohort of 129 renal recipients with MVI on graft biopsy. Genetic analysis of these patients shows a higher prevalence of mismatches between donor HLA I and recipient inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). Human in vitro models and transplantation of β2-microglobulin-deficient hearts into wild-type mice demonstrates that the inability of graft endothelial cells to provide HLA I-mediated inhibitory signals to recipient circulating NK cells triggers their activation, which in turn promotes endothelial damage. Missing self-induced NK cell activation is mTORC1-dependent and the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin can prevent the development of this type of chronic vascular rejection.