bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of Tidal Bar Wavelength to Channel Width
Authors: Hepkema T. M. , de Swart H. E. , Schuttelaars H. M.
Published: September 2019

Tidal bars are repetitive estuarine bedforms with heights of several meters and wavelengths in the order 1–15 km. Understanding their formation and sensitivity to changes in channel characteristics is important as they hamper marine traffic and play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Recent observations suggest that the local width of the channel is dominant in determining the tidal bar wavelength. However, theoretical studies could not reproduce the sensitivity of the tidal bar wavelength to channel width. This discrepancy between theory and observations suggests that a mechanism is missing. In this study, one of the theoretical models is extended and results in tidal bar wavelengths, lateral mode numbers, and growth rates that agree fairly well with those of natural tidal bars, including the wavelengths dependency on estuary width. An important extension of the model concerns the bed slope induced diffusive suspended load transport of sediments. With this, it is explained why previously, the modelled tidal bar wavelengths depend only weakly on estuary width and why in the extended model it does. This has, from a modelling point of view, general implications for morphological models using a total load sediment transport formulation with a so‐called bed slope parameter.
Comparison of Physics‐Based Propagation Prediction Model and Measurements in a Vegetated Residential Area at 3.5 GHz and 5.8 GHz
Authors: Torrico Saúl A. , Lang Roger H.
Published: September 2019

The objective of this paper is to extend the physics‐based Torrico‐Bertoni‐Lang propagation model to overcome some of its limitations found in the original model. Namely, be able to include as part of the model, terrain elevation, and morphology information between the transmitter and the receiver simultaneously. Also, to include a detailed explanation of how the canopy of trees is modeled and integrated in the extended physics‐based model within a vegetated residential area. The performance of the model is assessed by comparing with measurements made in several point‐to‐point systems at 3.5 GHz and 5.8 GHz. The vegetated residential area is described as an area outside the high‐rise core of a city, where the heights of the houses and trees are of relative uniform height that block the direct Line‐of‐Sight between an elevated transmitter and multiple elevated receivers. From this point of view, the propagation takes place over the rooftops and/or through the canopies of trees. The terrain data is from the United States Geological Survey (USGS); the building information is from the Light Detection and Ranging data; and the vegetation data is from the USGS National Land Covered Data 2011 database. Model results show the importance of using a physics‐based model in conjunction with Geographical Information System (GIS) data in order to obtain a close correlation between measurements and predictions.
Intersubband Device Modeling of Gallium Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistor for Terahertz Applications
Authors: Kaneriya R. K. , Rastogi Gunjan , Basu P. K. , Upadhyay R. B. , Bhattacharya A. N.
Published: September 2019

High‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) utilizing gallium nitride (GaN)‐based heterostructures are potential structures for the development of room temperature terahertz (THz) source and detectors. The corresponding material system also offers immense and exciting physical effects governing its behavior at THz frequencies. This behavioral simulation has been attempted for undoped aluminum gallium nitride/ aluminum nitride /GaN heterostructure for THz applications in the present work using technology computer‐aided design platform. Self‐consistent solutions of Schrodinger and Poisson equations are solved to calculate quantized energy states. The work also presents physics‐based device modeling of GaN HEMT structure using the simulated properties of heterostructure like electron mobility, two‐dimensional electron gas concentration, polarization charge concentration, conduction band energies, and so forth. Measurement‐based approach has been adopted to increase the reliability of the simulation and modeling. Various semiconductor characterization techniques have been utilized for this purpose. It is studied and presented that intersubband transition phenomenon is possible mode especially at THz frequency and can significantly contribute to extend the GaN‐HEMT operating frequency well beyond its present cutoff frequency to THz band.
Reactivation of Floodplains in River Restorations: Long‐Term Implications on the Mobility of Floodplain Sediment Deposits
Authors: Maaß A.‐L. , Schüttrumpf H.
Published: September 2019

Nowadays, national and international requirements and laws emphasize the “natural” development of river‐floodplain systems. One goal is to increase the connectivity between the river and its floodplains and thus reactivate floodplains as flooding areas, which potentially increases the mobility of fine sediments. The objective of this study is to analyze the long‐term effects of reactivated floodplains on the mobility of floodplain deposits of small rivers based on two river restoration scenarios: elevating the riverbed or lowering the floodplains. Past channel fixation and degradation as well as the subsequent increase in the floodplain elevation led to the decoupling of the channel and floodplain morphodynamics associated with the reduction of the habitat connectivity. Here, the floodplain sedimentation rates were determined using a numerical model based on the Delft3D software. The novelty of these numerical investigations is the morphological long‐term analysis over timescales of decades, which is not comparable to other short‐term hydrodynamic and morphodynamic studies for small meandering lowland rivers. The results of 11 river restoration scenarios show that lowering the floodplain and raising the riverbed elevation both lead to an increase in the fine sediment deposition on the floodplain. However, lowering the floodplain elevation is generally more effective. Based on the numerical model results and the assumption of a fixed river channel, only anthropogenic activity might have increased the amount of fine sediments deposited on floodplains and has accelerated the decoupling of the floodplains from the riverbed in the past centuries.
Item-based analysis of the effects of duloxetine in depression: a patient-level post hoc study
Authors: Lisinski Alexander , Hieronymus Fredrik , Näslund Jakob , Nilsson Staffan , Eriksson Elias
Published: September 2019

Oft-cited trial-level meta-analyses casting doubt on the usefulness of antidepressants have been based on re-analyses of to what extent the active drug has outperformed placebo in reducing the sum score of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17-sum) in clinical trials. Recent studies, however, suggest patient-level analyses of individual HDRS items to be more informative when assessing the efficacy of an antidepressant. To shed further light on both symptom-reducing and symptom-aggravating effects of a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, duloxetine, when used for major depression in adults, we hence applied this approach to re-analyse data from 13 placebo-controlled trials. In addition, using patient-level data from 28 placebo-controlled trials of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the response profile of duloxetine was compared to that of these drugs. Duloxetine induced a robust reduction in depressed mood that was not dependent on baseline severity and not caused by side-effects breaking the blind. A beneficial effect on depressed mood was at hand already after one week; when outcome was assessed using HDRS-17-sum as effect parameter, this early response was however masked by a concomitant deterioration with respect to adverse event-related items. No support for a suicide-provoking effect of duloxetine was obtained. The response profile of duloxetine was strikingly similar to that of the SSRIs. We conclude that the use of HDRS-17-sum as effect parameter underestimates the true efficacy and masks an early effect of duloxetine on core symptoms of depression. No support for major differences between duloxetine and SSRIs in clinical profile were obtained.
Trehalose promotes the survival of random-pattern skin flaps by TFEB mediated autophagy enhancement
Authors: Wu Hongqiang , Chen Huanwen , Zheng Zhilong , Li Jiafeng , Ding Jian , Huang Zihuai , Jia Chang , Shen Zitong , Bao Guodong , Wu Lingyun , Mamun Abdullah Al , Xu Huazi , Gao Weiyang , Zhou Kailiang
Published: September 2019

Random-pattern skin flaps are commonly used and valuable tools in reconstructive surgery, however, post-operative random skin flap necrosis remains a major and common complication. Previous studies have suggested that activating autophagy, a major pathway for degradation of intracellular waste, may improve flap survival. In this study, we investigated whether trehalose, a novel and potent autophagy activator, improves random skin flap viability. Our results demonstrated that trehalose significantly improves viability, augments blood flow, and decreases tissue edema. Furthermore, we found that trehalose leads to increased angiogenesis, decreased apoptosis, and reduced oxidative stress. Using immunohistochestry and western blot, we demonstrated that trehalose augments autophagy, and that inhibition of autophagy augmentation using 3MA significantly blunted the aforementioned benefits of trehalose therapy. Mechanistically, we showed that trehalose’s autophagy augmentation is mediated by activation and nuclear translocation of TFEB, which may be due to inhibition of Akt and activation of the AMPK-SKP2-CARM1 signaling pathway. Altogether, our results established that trehalose is a potent agent capable for significantly increasing random-pattern skin flap survival by augmenting autophagy and subsequently promoting angiogenesis, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting cell death.
Altering polythiophene derivative substrates to control the electrodeposition morphology of Au particles toward ultrafine nanoparticles
Authors: Fan Yanchen , Liu Shitai , Xiao Jiewen , Wang Tianshuai , Liu Xiaopeng , Chen Hetian , Gong Yongji , Zhang Qianfan
Published: September 2019

A novel strategy for controlling the morphology of AuNPs by altering polythiophene derivative substrates was developed, and the nucleation mechanism of AuNPs on PTs was further explored theoretically.
Visible-light promoted one-pot synthesis of sulfonated spiro[4,5]trienones from propiolamides, anilines and sulfur dioxide under transition metal-free conditions
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Qiao-Lin , Chen Zan , Zhou Quan , Xiong Bi-Quan , Zhang Pan-Liang , Tang Ke-Wen
Published: September 2019

A novel visible-light promoted sulfonylation/ipso-cyclization of N-arylpropiolamides with aromatic amines and DABCO·(SO2)2 to synthesize various sulfonated spiro[4,5]trienones is reported.
Zinc as a versatile connecting atom for zintl cluster oligomers
Authors: Mayer Kerstin , Klein Wilhelm , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: September 2019

Homoatomic cluster aggregation is a versatile route to build up atom-precise nano structures. In this work, we present first structures representing building motifs of hypothetical ZnGe9networks.
Synthesis of alumina-based cross-linked chitosan–HPMC biocomposite film: an efficient and user-friendly adsorbent for multipurpose water purification
Authors: Barik Bapun , Nayak Pratap S. , Achary L. Satish K. , Kumar Aniket , Dash Priyabrat
Published: September 2019

Novel alumina-based cross-linked chitosan–HPMC biocomposite is synthesized and its detailed characteristics with potential applications in water purification from both organic and inorganic contaminants elucidated.
Very long baseline interferometry observation of the triple AGN candidate J0849+1114
Authors: Gabányi K. É. , Frey S. , Satyapal S. , Constantin A. , Pfeifle R. W.
Published: September 2019

Context. In the hierarchical structure formation model, galaxies grow through various merging events. Numerical simulations indicate that mergers can enhance the activity of central supermassive black holes in galaxies.

Aims. A system of three interacting galaxies, called J0849+1114, has recently been identified and multi-wavelength evidence of all three galaxies containing active galactic nuclei has recently been found. The system has substantial radio emission; we aim to investigate the origin of this radio emission with a high-resolution radio interferometric observation and to discover whether it is related to star formation or to one or more of the active galactic nuclei in the system.

Methods. We performed high-resolution continuum observation of J0849+1114 with the European Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network at 1.7 GHz.

Results. We detected one compact radio emitting source at the position of the easternmost nucleus. Its high brightness temperature and radio power indicate that the radio emission originates from a radio-emitting active galactic nucleus. Additionally, we found that significant amount of flux density is contained in ∼100 milliarcsec-scale feature related to the active nucleus.
The linear complexity of new q-ary generalized cyclotomic sequences of period pn
Authors: Edemskiy Vladimir , Sokolovskiy Nikita
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we study the linear complexity of new q-ary generalized cyclotomic sequences of length pn over the finite field of order q. We show that these sequences have the high linear complexity when n ≥ 2. These sequences are constructed by new generalized cyclotomic classed prepared by X. Zeng at el.
Influence of distance to depth shot of a CO2-powered airsoft gun with lead shot ammunition and shape of the temporary and permanent cavity in ballistic gelatine.
Authors: Ficek Martin , Pavlík Lukáš , Silva Rui Miguel Soares , Mikuličová Michaela
Published: September 2019

The increasing aggression in the population, which is undoubtedly associated with the onset of narcissism, also entails an increase in the number of assaults in society. Of course, the number of clashes when a Weapon is used is also increasing. In most cases, these are weapons classified as weapons of category D (according to the Czech legislation), especially air guns, expansion weapons, and airsoft guns. This fact needs to be addressed, not by impulsive bans under duress, but by subjecting these weapons to the investigation, especially in the field of wounding ballistics, which answers the questions about the wounding potential of these weapons. This paper deals with one of these weapons, specifically airsoft gun with used ammunition lead shot. The depth of the shot and the size of the temporary and permanent cavity in relation to the distance were investigated, the contact distance was measured, and then the distance of 5 m.
Top-down, bottom-up or outside-in? An examination of triadic mechanisms on firm innovation in Chinese firms
Authors: Zhou Yu , Liu Guangjian , Chang Xiaoxi , Hong Ying
Published: September 2019

This paper examines the influence of the interaction of three sources of innovation, namely, top-down (bureaucratic structure), bottom-up (high-involvement HRM) and outside-in (outreaching network), on two stages of firm innovation, i.e. invention and commercialization. Using data from 620 large Chinese companies, we found that there was a synergy between the bureaucratic structure and a high-involvement HRM system in influencing firm innovation. Social networks were most effective in promoting firm innovation in the presence of a high-involvement HRM system. The bureaucratic structure inhibited social networks in contributing to firm innovation. Ideas for future research and practical implications are discussed.
Alternatives to Transfusion
Authors: Bachert Sara Emily , Dogra Prerna , Boral Leonard I
Published: September 2019

Objectives

We discuss two main categories of blood substitutes: perfluorocarbons and hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers.

Methods

We provide a review of the notable products developed in both categories and include their attributes as well as their setbacks.

Results

We contribute a case report tothe growing literature of the successful use of Sanguinate.

Conclusions

We find that artificial oxygen carriers are an attractive field of research because of the practical limitations and the multitude of potential complications that surround human blood transfusions.
A Randomized Trial to Evaluate the Effects of Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation on Male Fertility and Livebirth: Design and Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Schisterman Enrique F , Clemons Traci , Peterson C Matthew , Johnstone Erica , Hammoud Ahmad O , Lamb Denise , Carrell Douglas T , Perkins Neil J , Sjaarda Lindsey A , Van Voorhis Bradley J , Ryan Ginny , Summers Karen , Campbell Bruce , Robins Jared , Chaney Kayla , Mills James L , Mendola Pauline , Chen Zhen , DeVilbiss Elizabeth A , Mumford Sunni L
Published: September 2019

The Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation Trial (FAZST) was a multicenter, double-blind, block-randomized, placebo-controlled trial to determine whether folic acid and zinc supplementation in men improves semen quality and increases livebirth rate among couples seeking infertility treatment (2013–2017). Eligible men were aged 18 years or older with female partners aged 18–45 years, seeking infertility treatment. Men were randomized (1:1) to 5 mg folic acid and 30 mg elemental zinc daily or matching placebo for 6 months. Randomization was stratified by site and intended infertility treatment (in vitro fertilization (IVF), non-IVF/study site, and non-IVF/outside clinic). Follow-up of men continued for 6 months, and female partners were passively followed for a minimum of 9 months. Women who conceived were followed throughout pregnancy. Overall, 2,370 men were randomized during 2013–2017 (1,185 folic acid and zinc, 1,185 placebo); they had a mean age of 33 years and body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m)2) of 29.8. Most participants were white (82%), well educated (83% with some college), and employed (72%). Participant characteristics were balanced across intervention arms. Study visits were completed by 89%, 77%, and 75% of men at months 2, 4, and 6, respectively. Here we describe the study design, recruitment, data collection, lessons learned, and baseline participant characteristics.
Quantifying the contribution of bent shoots to plant photosynthesis and biomass production of flower shoots in rose (Rosa hybrida) using a functional–structural plant model
Authors: Zhang Ningyi , van Westreenen Arian , Evers Jochem B , Anten Niels P R , Marcelis Leo F M
Published: September 2019

Background and Aims

The success of using bent shoots in cut-rose (Rosa hybrida) production to improve flower shoot quality has been attributed to bent shoots capturing more light and thus providing more assimilates for flower shoot growth. We aimed at quantifying this contribution of photosynthesis by bent shoots to flower shoot growth.

Methods

Rose plants were grown with four upright flower shoots and with no, one or three bent shoots per plant. Plant architectural traits, leaf photosynthetic parameters and organ dry weight were measured. A functional–structural plant (FSP) model of rose was used to calculate photosynthesis of upright shoots and bent shoots separately, taking into account the heterogeneous canopy structure of these plants.

Key Results

Bent shoots contributed to 43–53 % of total assimilated CO2 by the plant. Plant photosynthesis increased by 73 and 117 % in plants with, respectively, one and three bent shoots compared with plants without bent shoots. Upright shoot photosynthesis was not significantly affected by the presence of bent shoots. However, upright shoot dry weight increased by 35 and 59 % in plants with, respectively, one and three bent shoots compared with plants without bent shoots. The increased upright shoot dry weight was entirely due to the contribution of extra photosynthesis by bent shoots, as this was the only source that could induce differences in upright shoot growth apart from their own photosynthesis. At least 47–51 % of the photosynthesis by bent shoots was translocated to upright shoots to support their biomass increase.

Conclusions

Based on model simulations, we conclude that the positive effect of shoot bending on flower shoot growth and quality in cut-rose production system can almost entirely be attributed to assimilate supply from bent shoots. FSP modelling is a useful tool to quantify the contributions of photosynthesis by different parts of heterogeneous canopies.
In search of the lost parts of Bach’s cantata Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied (bwv190)
Authors: Göncz Zoltán
Published: September 2019

The surviving manuscript score of Bach’s first cantata for New Year’s Day in Leipzig (bwv190) does not contain the first two movements of the composition; only the choral parts and the two violin parts have survived. The parts for the three trumpets, timpani, three oboes, bassoon, viola and continuo are all lost. What is left is so incomplete and the loss of information so dramatic that we might think a performance of the first movement would be out of the question. This article appraises previous scholarly reconstructions of the movement and introduces the author’s own reconstruction, which is published in full in an online appendix. In the process of reconstruction, many insights arise into Bach’s compositional technique for large-scale choral movements and his preferred instrumentation.
Electrocardiographic characterization of non-selective His-bundle pacing: validation of novel diagnostic criteria
Authors: Jastrzębski Marek , Moskal Paweł , Curila Karol , Fijorek Kamil , Kukla Piotr , Bednarek Agnieszka , Kiełbasa Grzegorz , Bednarski Adam , Baranchuk Adrian , Czarnecka Danuta
Published: September 2019

Aims 

Permanent His-bundle (HB) pacing is usually accompanied by simultaneous capture of the adjacent right ventricular (RV) myocardium—this is described as a non-selective (ns)-HB pacing. It is of clinical importance to confirm HB capture using standard electrocardiogram (ECG). Our aim was to identify ECG criteria for loss of HB capture during ns-HB pacing.

Methods and results 

Patients with permanent HB pacing were recruited. Electrocardiograms during ns-HB pacing and loss of HB capture (RV-only capture) were obtained. Electrocardiogram criteria for loss/presence of HB capture were identified. In the validation phase, these criteria and the ‘HB ECG algorithm’ were tested using a separate, sizable set of ECGs. A total of 353 ECG (226 ns-HB and 128 RV-only) were obtained from 226 patients with permanent HB pacing devices. QRS notch/slur in left ventricular leads and R-wave peak time (RWPT) in lead V6 were identified as the best features for differentiation. The ‘HB ECG algorithm’ based on these features correctly classified 87.1% of cases with sensitivity and specificity of 93.2% and 83.9%, respectively. The criteria for definitive diagnosis of ns-HB capture (no QRS slur/notch in Leads I, V1, V4–V6, and the V6 RWPT ≤ 100 ms) presented 100% specificity.

Conclusion 

A novel ECG algorithm for the diagnosis of loss of HB capture and criteria for definitive confirmation of HB capture were formulated and validated. The algorithm might be useful during follow-up and the criteria for definitive confirmation of ns-HB capture offer a simple and reliable ancillary procedural endpoint during HB device implantation.
Genomics of Aerobic Photoheterotrophs in Wheat Phyllosphere Reveals Divergent Evolutionary Patterns of Photosynthetic Genes in Methylobacterium spp.
Authors: Zervas Athanasios , Zeng Yonghui , Madsen Anne Mette , Hansen Lars H
Published: September 2019

Phyllosphere is a habitat to a variety of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, which play a fundamental role in maintaining the health of plants and mediating the interaction between plants and ambient environments. A recent addition to this catalogue of microbial diversity was the aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs (AAPs), a group of widespread bacteria that absorb light through bacteriochlorophyll α (BChl a) to produce energy without fixing carbon or producing molecular oxygen. However, culture representatives of AAPs from phyllosphere and their genome information are lacking, limiting our capability to assess their potential ecological roles in this unique niche. In this study, we investigated the presence of AAPs in the phyllosphere of a winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Denmark by employing bacterial colony based infrared imaging and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS) techniques. A total of ∼4,480 colonies were screened for the presence of cellular BChl a, resulting in 129 AAP isolates that were further clustered into 21 groups based on MALDI-TOF MS profiling, representatives of which were sequenced using the Illumina NextSeq and Oxford Nanopore MinION platforms. Seventeen draft and four complete genomes of AAPs were assembled belonging in Methylobacterium, Rhizobium, Roseomonas, and a novel Alsobacter. We observed a diverging pattern in the evolutionary rates of photosynthesis genes among the highly homogenous AAP strains of Methylobacterium (Alphaproteobacteria), highlighting an ongoing genomic innovation at the gene cluster level.
Multitask learning for local seismic image processing: fault detection, structure-oriented smoothing with edge-preserving, and seismic normal estimation by using a single convolutional neural network
Authors: Wu Xinming , Liang Luming , Shi Yunzhi , Geng Zhicheng , Fomel Sergey
Published: September 2019

Fault detection in a seismic image is a key step of structural interpretation. Structure-oriented smoothing with edge-preserving removes noise while enhancing seismic structures and sharpening structural edges in a seismic image, which, therefore, facilitates and accelerates the seismic structural interpretation. Estimating seismic normal vectors or reflection slopes is a basic step for many other seismic data processing tasks. All the three seismic image processing tasks are related to each other as they all involve the analysis of seismic structural features. In conventional seismic image processing schemes, however, these three tasks are often independently performed by different algorithms and challenges remain in each of them. We propose to simultaneously perform all the three tasks by using a single convolutional neural network (CNN). To train the network, we automatically create thousands of 3-D noisy synthetic seismic images and corresponding ground truth of fault images, clean seismic images and seismic normal vectors. Although trained with only the synthetic data sets, the network automatically learns to accurately perform all the three image processing tasks in a general seismic image. Multiple field examples show that the network is significantly superior to the conventional methods in all the three tasks of computing a more accurate and sharper fault detection, a smoothed seismic volume with better enhanced structures and structural edges, and more accurate seismic normal vectors or reflection slopes. Using a Titan Xp GPU, the training processing takes about 8 hr and the trained model takes only half a second to process a seismic volume with $128\, \times \, 128\, \times \, 128$ image samples.
Public health management: systemic analysis of social determinants of health in Brazilian municipalities
Authors: Melo Francisco Carlos Carvalho de , Costa Rodolfo Ferreira Ribeiro da , Del Corso Jansen Maia
Published: September 2019

The health sector is considered extremely important by governments and multilateral international organisms, due to its implication to life, as well as material and human struggling involved. This study adopts a systematical approach in order to question if the mortality outcomes in medium Brazilian cities explain or may be explained by factors considered external to the public health service, expressed by health social determinants. Therefore, this study aims to investigate health conditions in public health management in medium Brazilian cities. The scenario adopted contains 192 cities with a population contingent between 100 000 and 500 000 inhabitants, between the years 2007 and 2011. The database produced, containing 30 indicators representing conceptual models referenced, allowed the elaboration of an operational model of health social determinants from a Bayesian network. As result, we elaborated a model of health system formed by six factors, showing associations that allow a better comprehension about relations among health social determinants and health conditions, producing contextualized information, able to subsidize the formulation of strategies by managers of Sistema Único de Saúde.
Pathogenic mutations in the ALS gene CCNF cause cytoplasmic mislocalization of Cyclin F and elevated VCP ATPase activity
Authors: Yu Yujiao , Nakagawa Tadashi , Morohoshi Akane , Nakagawa Makiko , Ishida Noriko , Suzuki Naoki , Aoki Masashi , Nakayama Keiko
Published: September 2019

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset motor neuron disease characterized by a progressive decline in motor function. Genetic analyses have identified several genes mutated in ALS patients, and one of them is Cyclin F gene (CCNF), the product of which (Cyclin F) serves as the substrate-binding module of a SKP1–CUL1–F-box protein (SCF) ubiquitin ligase complex. However, the role of Cyclin F in ALS pathogenesis has remained unclear. Here, we show that Cyclin F binds to valosin-containing protein (VCP), which is also reported to be mutated in ALS, and that the two proteins colocalize in the nucleus. VCP was found to bind to the NH2-terminal region of Cyclin F and was not ubiquitylated by SCFCyclin F in transfected cells. Instead, the ATPase activity of VCP was enhanced by Cyclin F in vitro. Furthermore, whereas ALS-associated mutations of CCNF did not affect the stability of Cyclin F or disrupt formation of the SCFCyclin F complex, amino acid substitutions in the VCP binding region increased the binding ability of Cyclin F to VCP and activity of VCP as well as mislocalization of the protein in the cytoplasm. We also provided evidence that the ATPase activity of VCP promotes cytoplasmic aggregation of transactivation responsive region (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43, which is commonly observed in degenerating neurons in ALS patients. Given that mutations of VCP identified in ALS patients also increase its ATPase activity, our results suggest that Cyclin F mutations may contribute to ALS pathogenesis by increasing the ATPase activity of VCP in the cytoplasm, which in turn increases TDP-43 aggregates.
The Gromov–Wasserstein distance between networks and stable network invariants
Authors: Chowdhury Samir , Mémoli Facundo
Published: September 2019

We define a metric—the network Gromov–Wasserstein distance—on weighted, directed networks that is sensitive to the presence of outliers. In addition to proving its theoretical properties, we supply network invariants based on optimal transport that approximate this distance by means of lower bounds. We test these methods on a range of simulated network datasets and on a dataset of real-world global bilateral migration. For our simulations, we define a network generative model based on the stochastic block model. This may be of independent interest for benchmarking purposes.
Impact of NRTI resistance mutations on virological effectiveness of antiretroviral regimens containing elvitegravir: a multi-cohort study
Authors: Modica Sara , Redi David , Gagliardini Roberta , Giombini Emanuela , Bezenchek Antonia , Di Carlo Domenico , Maggiolo Franco , Lombardi Francesca , Borghetti Alberto , Farinacci Damiano , Callegaro Annapaola , Gismondo Maria R , Colafigli Manuela , Sterrantino Gaetana , Costantini Andrea , Ferrara Sergio M , Rusconi Stefano , Zazzi Maurizio , Rossetti Barbara , De Luca Andrea , Gianotti Nicola
Published: September 2019

Background

Antiretroviral drug resistance mutations remain a major cause of treatment failure.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of NRTI resistance mutations on virological effectiveness of elvitegravir-containing regimens.

Materials and methods

We selected treatment-experienced HIV-1-infected patients starting elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (E/C/F/TAF) or elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (E/C/F/TDF), with at least one protease/reverse transcriptase genotype available before switching and at least one HIV-1 RNA viral load (VL) measurement during follow-up. The primary endpoint was virological failure (VF), defined as one VL value of ≥1000 copies/mL or two consecutive VL values of >50 copies/mL.

Results

We included 264 ART regimens: 75.6% male, median (IQR) age 47 years (39–53), 7 years (3–16) of HIV infection, nadir CD4+ 247 cells/mm3 (105–361), 81.5% with VL ≤50 copies/mL and 11.7% with at least one NRTI mutation at baseline. Eleven (5.2%) VFs occurred in virologically suppressed patients versus eight (15.1%) in viraemic patients. The estimated probability of VF at 48 weeks with versus without any NRTI mutation was 7.4% (95% CI 2.3–12.5) versus 3.8% (2.1–5.5) in virologically suppressed patients and 66.7% (39.5–93.9) versus 11.2% (6.5–15.9) (P<0.001) in viraemic patients. The only predictor of VF was time on therapy (per 1 year more, adjusted HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02–1.27, P=0.024) in viraemic patients.

Conclusions

A switch to E/C/F/TDF or E/C/F/TAF is safe for virologically suppressed patients without documented NRTI resistance, but not recommended in viraemic patients with a history of NRTI resistance. Although we did not detect a detrimental effect of past NRTI resistance in virologically suppressed patients, a fully active regimen remains preferred in this setting due to possible rebound of drug-resistant virus in the long term.
Genetic Diversity and Demographic History of an Upper Hill Dipterocarp (Shorea platyclados): Implications for Conservation
Authors: Ng Chin-Hong , Lee Soon-Leong , Tnah Lee-Hong , Ng Kevin K S , Lee Chai-Ting , Diway Bibian , Khoo Eyen
Published: September 2019

Southeast Asian rainforests at upper hill elevations are increasingly vulnerable to degradation because most lowland forest areas have been converted to different land uses. As such, understanding the genetics of upper hill species is becoming more crucial for their future management and conservation. Shorea platyclados is an important, widespread upper hill dipterocarp in Malaysia. To elucidate the genetic structure of S. platyclados and ultimately provide guidelines for a conservation strategy for this species, we carried out a comprehensive study of the genetic diversity and demographic history of S. platyclados. Twenty-seven populations of S. platyclados across its range in Malaysia were genotyped at 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci and sequenced at seven noncoding chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) regions. A total of 303 alleles were derived from the microsatellite loci, and 29 haplotypes were identified based on 2892 bp of concatenated cpDNA sequences. The populations showed moderately high genetic diversity (mean HE = 0.680 for microsatellite gene diversity and HT = 0.650 for total haplotype diversity) and low genetic differentiation (FST = 0.060). Bayesian clustering divided the studied populations into two groups corresponding to western and eastern Malaysia. Bottleneck analysis did not detect any recent bottleneck events. Extended Bayesian skyline analyses showed a model of constant size for the past population history of this species. Based on our findings, priority areas for in situ and ex situ conservation and a minimum population size are recommended for the sustainable utilization of S. platyclados.
Gastrointestinal histoplasmosis mimicking peritonitis carcinomatosis: a rare case of an emergent surgical presentation of HIV de novo
Authors: Engelmann Esmee W M , Posthuma Jelle J , Scholten Lianne , Blankensteijn Louise L , Boldewijn Mireille B , Gooszen Jan A H
Published: September 2019

Gastrointestinal perforation due to infection, including disseminated histoplasmosis, is a rare cause of the surgical acute abdomen, especially in an apparently healthy patient. We describe a rare case of gastrointestinal histoplasmosis-induced small intestine perforation as the first manifestation of acquired immune deficiency syndrome in a healthy patient. Remarkably, the disease mimicked peritonitis carcinomatosis during explorative laparoscopy.
A Bayesian Fermi-GBM short GRB spectral catalogue
Authors: Burgess J Michael , Greiner Jochen , Bégué Damien , Berlato Franceso
Published: September 2019

Inspired by the confirmed detection of a short gamma-ray burst (GRB) in association with a gravitational wave signal, we present the first Bayesian Fermi-Gamma-ray Burst Monitor (GBM) short GRB spectral catalogue. Both peak flux and time-resolved spectral results are presented. Data are analysed with the proper Poisson likelihood allowing us to provide statistically reliable results even for spectra with few counts. All fits are validated with posterior predictive checks. We find that nearly all spectra can be modelled with a cut-off power law. Additionally, we release the full posterior distributions and reduced data from our sample. Following our previous study, we introduce three variability classes based on the observed light-curve structure.
A diagnostic tool for the identification of supernova remnants
Authors: Kopsacheili M , Zezas A , Leonidaki I
Published: September 2019

We present new diagnostic tools for distinguishing supernova remnants (SNRs) from H ii regions. Up to now, sources with flux ratio [S ii]/H$\rm {\alpha }$ higher than 0.4 have been considered as SNRs. Here, we present combinations of three or two line ratios as more effective tools for the separation of these two kinds of nebulae, depicting them as 3D surfaces or 2D lines. The diagnostics are based on photoionization and shock-excitation models (mappings iii) analysed with support vector machine (SVM) models for classification. The line-ratio combination that gives the most efficient diagnostic is [O i]/H$\rm {\alpha }$ – [O ii]/H$\rm {\beta }$ – [O iii]/H$\rm {\beta }$. This method gives $98.95{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ completeness in the SNR selection and $1.20{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ contamination. We also define the [O i]/H$\rm {\alpha }$ SNR selection criterion and measure its efficiency in comparison with other selection criteria.
Wiener filtering and pure $\mathcal {E}/\mathcal {B}$ decomposition of CMB maps with anisotropic correlated noise
Authors: Kodi Ramanah Doogesh , Lavaux Guilhem , Wandelt Benjamin D
Published: September 2019

We present an augmented version of our dual messenger algorithm for spin field reconstruction on the sphere, while accounting for highly non-trivial and realistic noise models such as modulated correlated noise. We also describe an optimization method for the estimation of noise covariance from Monte Carlo simulations. Using simulated Planck polarized cosmic microwave background (CMB) maps as a showcase, we demonstrate the capabilities of the algorithm in reconstructing pure $\mathcal {E}$ and $\mathcal {B}$ maps, guaranteed to be free from ambiguous modes resulting from the leakage or coupling issue that plagues conventional methods of $\mathcal {E}/\mathcal {B}$ separation. Due to its high speed execution, coupled with lenient memory requirements, the algorithm can be optimized in exact global Bayesian analyses of state-of-the-art CMB data for a statistically optimal separation of pure $\mathcal {E}$ and $\mathcal {B}$ modes. Our algorithm, therefore, has a potentially key role in the data analysis of high-resolution and high-sensitivity CMB data, especially with the range of upcoming CMB experiments tailored for the detection of the elusive primordial $\mathcal {B}$-mode signal.
Extracranial arteriovenous malformations: from bedside to bench
Authors: Qiao Congzhen , Richter Gresham T , Pan Weijun , Jin Yunbo , Lin Xiaoxi
Published: September 2019

Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is defined as a fast-flow vascular anomaly that shunts blood from arteries directly to veins. This short circuit of blood flow contributes to progressive expansion of draining veins, resulting in ischaemia, tissue deformation and in some severe cases, congestive heart failure. Various medical interventions have been employed to treat AVM, however, management of which remains a huge challenge because of its high recurrence rate and lethal complications. Thus, understanding the underlying mechanisms of AVM development and progression will help direct discovery and a potential cure. Here, we summarize current findings in the field of extracranial AVMs with the aim to provide insight into their aetiology and molecular influences, in the hope to pave the way for future treatment.
Improved detection of diffuse glioma infiltration with imaging combinations: a diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Verburg Niels , Koopman Thomas , Yaqub Maqsood M , Hoekstra Otto S , Lammertsma Adriaan A , Barkhof Frederik , Pouwels Petra J W , Reijneveld Jaap C , Heimans Jan J , Rozemuller Annemarie J M , Bruynzeel Anne M E , Lagerwaard Frank , Vandertop William P , Boellaard Ronald , Wesseling Pieter , de Witt Hamer Philip C
Published: September 2019

Background

Surgical resection and irradiation of diffuse glioma are guided by standard MRI: T2/fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR)–weighted MRI for non-enhancing and T1-weighted gadolinium-enhanced (T1G) MRI for enhancing gliomas. Amino acid PET has been suggested as the new standard. Imaging combinations may improve standard MRI and amino acid PET. The aim of the study was to determine the accuracy of imaging combinations to detect glioma infiltration.

Methods

We included 20 consecutive adults with newly diagnosed non-enhancing glioma (7 diffuse astrocytomas, isocitrate dehydrogenase [IDH] mutant; 1 oligodendroglioma, IDH mutant and 1p/19q codeleted; 1 glioblastoma IDH wildtype) or enhancing glioma (glioblastoma, 9 IDH wildtype and 2 IDH mutant). Standardized preoperative imaging (T1-, T2-, FLAIR-weighted, and T1G MRI, perfusion and diffusion MRI, MR spectroscopy and O-(2-[18F]-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine ([18F]FET) PET) was co-localized with multiregion stereotactic biopsies preceding resection. Tumor presence in the biopsies was assessed by 2 neuropathologists. Diagnostic accuracy was determined using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

A total of 174 biopsies were obtained (63 from 9 non-enhancing and 111 from 11 enhancing gliomas), of which 129 contained tumor (50 from non-enhancing and 79 from enhancing gliomas). In enhancing gliomas, the combination of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) with [18F]FET PET (area under the curve [AUC], 95% CI: 0.89, 0.79‒0.99) detected tumor better than T1G MRI (0.56, 0.39‒0.72; P < 0.001) and [18F]FET PET (0.76, 0.66‒0.86; P = 0.001). In non-enhancing gliomas, no imaging combination detected tumor significantly better than standard MRI. FLAIR-weighted MRI had an AUC of 0.81 (0.65–0.98) compared with 0.69 (0.56–0.81; P = 0.019) for [18F]FET PET.

Conclusion

Combining ADC and [18F]FET PET detects glioma infiltration better than standard MRI and [18F]FET PET in enhancing gliomas, potentially enabling better guidance of local therapy.
Functional Characterization of Three Novel Genes Encoding Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase (DGAT) from Oil-Rich Tubers of Cyperus esculentus
Authors: Liu Dantong , Ji Hongying , Yang Zhenle
Published: September 2019

Cyperus esculentus is probably the only plant that is known to accumulate large amounts of oil in its tubers. However, the underlying metabolic mechanism and regulatory factors involved in oil synthesis of tubers are still largely unclear. In this study, one gene encoding type I diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) (CeDGAT1) and two genes encoding type II DGAT (CeDGAT2a and CeDGAT2b) from C. esculentus were identified and functionally analyzed. All three DGAT genes were found to be expressed in tuber, root and leaf tissues. CeDGAT1 is highly expressed in roots and leaves, whereas CeDGAT2b is dominantly expressed in tubers. Furthermore, the temporal expression pattern of CeDGAT2b is well coordinated with the oil accumulation in developing tubers. When each CeDGAT was heterologously expressed in triacylglycerol (TAG)-deficient mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Arabidopsis thaliana wild type or its TAG1 mutant with AtDGAT1 disruption, only CeDGAT2b showed the ability to restore TAG biosynthesis with lipid body formation in yeast mutant, enhance seed oil production of Arabidopsis wild type and rescue multiple seed phenotypes of TAG1 mutant. In addition, CeDGAT2b was shown to have a substrate preference for unsaturated fatty acids toward TAG synthesis. Taken together, our results indicated that CeDGAT2b from C. esculentus is an actively functional protein and is most likely the major contributor to tuber oil biosynthesis containing common fatty acids, in contrast to oil-rich seeds and fruits where DGAT1 plays a more central role than DGAT2 in oil production accumulating normal fatty acids, whereas DGAT2 is a primary regulator for oil synthesis rich in unusual fatty acids.
Global, regional and national burden of gout, 1990–2017: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Xia Yang , Wu Qijun , Wang Hanyuan , Zhang Shuang , Jiang Yuting , Gong Tingting , Xu Xin , Chang Qing , Niu Kaijun , Zhao Yuhong
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The burden of gout has been increasing globally. However, little is known about the global, regional and national distribution and time trend of this disease. We present a comprehensive analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 on gout burden estimates for 195 countries or territories between 1990 and 2017.

Methods

Age-standardized prevalence and disability-adjusted life-years of gout were reported between 1990 and 2017 in 195 countries and territories, and associations between these estimates and sociodemographic index (SDI) were further explored. Total and annual percent change between 1990 and 2017 were calculated to quantify the time trends of gout burden.

Results

Age-standardized prevalence rates (95% uncertainty interval) per 100 000 persons were 790.90 (706.10–881.90) and 253.49 (225.69–284.02) in 2017 in males and females, respectively. The annual percent change in age-standardized prevalence (males, 0.22%; females, 0.38%) and disability-adjusted life-years (males, 0.21%; females, 0.38%) of gout increased every year from 1990 to 2017, globally. The highest increase was detected in high-SDI countries, especially in high-income North America. A non-linear association was observed between burden of gout and SDI, with the lowest estimates of gout burden when SDI value was about 0.6. High BMI was the leading risk factor for the burden of gout.

Conclusion

These study results suggest a globally rising trajectory of gout burden between 1990 and 2017. More effective interventions, such as detailed and intensive dietary managements and other prevention strategies for reducing obesity, should be carried out to reverse this trend, especially in females and high-SDI countries.