bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intramuscular vaccination of Atlantic lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus L.) induces inflammatory reactions and local immunoglobulin M production at the vaccine administration site
Authors: Erkinharju Toni , Strandskog Guro , Vågnes Øyvind , Hordvik Ivar , Dalmo Roy A. , Seternes Tore
Published: October 2019

Atlantic lumpfish were vaccinated by intramuscular (im) or intraperitoneal (ip) injection with a multivalent oil‐based vaccine, while control fish were injected with phosphate‐buffered saline. Four lumpfish per group were sampled for skin/muscle and head kidney tissue at 0, 2, 7, 21 and 42 days post‐immunization (dpi) for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Gene expressions of secretory IgM, membrane‐bound IgM, IgD, TCRα, CD3ε and MHC class IIβ were studied in tissues by using qPCR. Im. vaccinated fish showed vaccine‐induced inflammation with formation of granulomas and increasing number of eosinophilic granulocyte‐like cells over time. On IHC sections, we observed diffuse intercellular staining of secretory IgM at the injection site at 2 dpi, while IgM + cells appeared in small numbers at 21 and 42 dpi. Skin/muscle samples from im. vaccinated fish demonstrated an increase in gene expression of IgM mRNA (secretory and membrane‐bound) at 21 and 42 dpi and small changes for other genes. Our results indicated that im. vaccination of lumpfish induced local IgM production at the vaccine injection site, with no apparent proliferation of IgM + cells. Eosinophilic granulocyte‐like cells appeared shortly after im. injection and increased in numbers as the inflammation progressed.
Recurrent genome duplication events likely contributed to both the ancient and recent rise of ferns
Authors: Huang Chien‐Hsun , Qi Xinping , Chen Duoyuan , Qi Ji , Ma Hong
Published: October 2019

Ferns, the second largest group of vascular plants, originated ~400 million years ago (Mya). They became dominant in the ancient Earth landscape before the angiosperms and are still important in current ecosystems. Many ferns have exceptionally high chromosome numbers, possibly resulting from whole‐genome duplications (WGDs). However, WGDs have not been investigated molecularly across fern diversity. Here we detected and dated fern WGDs using a phylogenomic approach and by calculating synonymous substitution rates (Ks). We also investigated a possible correlation between proposed WGDs and shifts in species diversification rates. We identified 19 WGDs: three ancient events along the fern phylogenetic backbone that are shared by 66%–97% of extant ferns, with additional lineage‐specific WGDs for eight orders, providing strong evidence for recurring genome duplications across fern evolutionary history. We also observed similar Ks peak values for more than half of these WGDs, with multiple WGDs occurring close to the Cretaceous (~145–66 Mya). Despite the repeated WGD events, the biodiversity of ferns declined during the Cretaceous, implying that other factors probably contributed to the floristic turnover from ferns to angiosperms. This study provides molecular evidence for recurring WGDs in ferns and offers important clues to the genomic evolutionary history of ferns.
The mechanism and function of active DNA demethylation in plants
Authors: Liu Ruie , Lang Zhaobo
Published: October 2019

DNA methylation is a conserved and important epigenetic mark in both mammals and plants. DNA methylation can be dynamically established, maintained, and removed through different pathways. In plants, active DNA demethylation is initiated by the RELEASE OF SILENCING 1 (ROS1) family of bifunctional DNA glycosylases/lyases. Accumulating evidence suggests that DNA demethylation is important in many processes in plants. In this review, we summarize recent studies on the enzymes and regulatory factors that have been identified in the DNA demethylation pathway. We also review the functions of active DNA demethylation in plant development as well as biotic and abiotic stress responses. Finally, we highlight those aspects of DNA demethylation that require additional research.
A recurrent GARS mutation causes distal hereditary motor neuropathy
Authors: Lee Diana C. , Meyer‐Schuman Rebecca , Bacon Chelsea , Shy Michael E. , Antonellis Anthony , Scherer Steven S.
Published: October 2019

We found a p.Gly327Arg mutation in GARS in two unrelated women, both of whom had a similar phenotype ‐ motor weakness that began in late childhood, distal weakness in the arms and legs, a motor greater than sensory neuropathy with slowing of motor and not sensory conduction velocities. A de novo mutation was proven in one patient and suspected in the other. The p.Gly327Arg GARS variant did not support yeast growth in a complementation assay, showing that this variant severely impairs protein function. Thus, the p.Gly327Arg GARS mutation causes a distal motor neuropathy.
The Financial Knowledge Scale: New Analyses, Findings, and Development of a Short Form
Authors: Houts Carrie R. , Knoll Melissa A. Z.
Published: October 2019

We use data from the Understanding America Study (UAS) internet panel to build upon the Knoll and Houts Financial Knowledge Scale (FKS). Specifically, we provide practitioners with a shorter 10‐item scale, describe additional analyses on both the full‐ and short‐form versions of the scales, and explore the relationship between FKS scores and a variety of retirement‐related outcome variables. Importantly, the full‐ and short‐form scales are developed using a statistical model that accounts for guessing, which allows us to provide more accurate estimates of financial knowledge than similar scales that do not account for guessing. The paper also provides conversion tables that can aid in the analysis and interpretation of FKS scores in practice. With the development of a 10‐item short form that accounts for guessing, we hope to provide practitioners and researchers with a tool that will enable them to reliably measure financial knowledge more parsimoniously and accurately than other measures currently in use.
Novel user‐friendly night care spray to manage skin darkening
Authors: Prabhu Divyashree , Ravikumar Padmini
Published: October 2019

Background

Hyperpigmentation can be either diffused or localized. In treating diffused hyperpigmentation, larger surface area coverage is the requirement. Novel user‐friendly spray formulation loaded with depigmenting agents can cater the night time need in treating skin darkening. Kojic acid and arbutin, the selected actives for the study exhibit low permeability and high irritancy generating hurdles in topical delivery.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop novel kojic acid and arbutin‐loaded spray formulation as a night care product.

Methods

“Thermosensitive gel spray” was fabricated by simple industry feasible cooling technique and evaluated for its ability to improve skin retention, penetration, improved anti‐tyrosinase activity, and suppressed dermal irritancy.

Results

Comparative in‐vitro and ex‐vivo release profile showed the marked effect of poloxamer 407 and Methocel K100M in improving penetration and extending release over longer time period. Retention of actives in the skin layer was found to be eight times more in case of thermosensitive gel spray as compared to conventional gel formulation. The thermosensitive gel spray was free from any dermal irritancy and had higher tyrosinase inhibitory effect as against conventional gel. Furthermore, thermosensitive gel spray exhibited good stability and did not show any change in morphology and drug content during the 3‐month storage.

Conclusion

Kojic acid and arbutin‐loaded thermosensitive gel spray can prove to be a promising strategy to treat hyperpigmentation.
A new approach in the treatment of pediatric hypertrophic burn scars: Tixel‐associated topical triamcinolone acetonide and 5‐fluorouracil delivery
Authors: Artzi Ofir , Koren Amir , Niv Roni , Mehrabi Joseph N. , Mashiah Jacob , Friedman Or
Published: October 2019

Background

Pediatric hypertrophic burn scars are challenging to treat due to their widespread nature and pain associated with the treatment. Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) injection with or without 5‐fluorouracil (5FU) is considered first‐line treatment for severe hypertrophic scars. The pain associated with the procedure, the uneven topography, and epidermal atrophy, all limit the application of this treatment modality.

Aims

We sought to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety profile of a novel thermomechanical system (Tixel, Novoxel) for transdermal delivery of a topical solution containing TAC and 5‐FU in the treatment of hypertrophic scars.

Patients/Methods

A retrospective study of pediatric hypertrophic burn scars treated between 2015 and 2017 was performed. Epidemiologic, treatment data, effectiveness score, and safety were reviewed.

Results

Four children (one male and three females, ages 3‐10 years old) with hypertrophic burn scars treated with the Tixel device were evaluated. Mean scar VSS was reduced from 8.4 ± 0.8‐5.2 ± 0.5 (P‐value – .001) after eight treatments. The mean improvement of toughness, thickness, color, and general aesthetic impression was 3.1 ± 0.43 → 2.2 ± 0.31, 3.4 ± 0.5 → 1.9 ± 0.63, 2.7 ± 0.21 → 2.4 ± 0.25, and 3.23 ± 0.44 → 1.6 ± 0.64, respectively. Mean treatment pain VAS score was 1.74 ± 0.9. Patient's parents rated their satisfaction level as "moderate‐high." No topical or systemic complications were observed.

Conclusion

Thermomechanical decomposition of the stratum corneum, in combination with topical application of TAC and 5‐FU, is a safe, relatively painless, and efficient modality for the treatment of pediatric hypertrophic burn scars.
The Insurance Is the Lemon: Failing to Index Contracts
Authors: HARTMAN‐GLASER BARNEY , HÉBERT BENJAMIN
Published: October 2019

We model the widespread failure of contracts to share risk using available indices. A borrower and lender can share risk by conditioning repayments on an index. The lender has private information about the ability of this index to measure the true state that the borrower would like to hedge. The lender is risk‐averse and thus requires a premium to insure the borrower. The borrower, however, might be paying something for nothing if the index is a poor measure of the true state. We provide sufficient conditions for this effect to cause the borrower to choose a nonindexed contract instead.
Chronic eyelid oedema and lacrimal gland swelling: Lets dig deeper!
Authors: Kumar Gurinder , Belfaqeeh Sara , Eatamadi Habibullah , Nair Rajendran , ElGhazali Gehad
Published: October 2019

See Answer
Hyperglycemia‐induced ubiquitination and degradation of β‐catenin with the loss of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 in retinal endothelial cells
Authors: Eshaq Randa S. , Harris Norman R.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Increased retinal vascular permeability is one of the earliest manifestations of diabetic retinopathy. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of hyperglycemia‐induced platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 loss on retinal vascular permeability via the β‐catenin pathway.

Methods

Type I diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats using streptozotocin injections, with age‐matched non‐diabetic rats as controls. Rat retinal microvascular endothelial cells were grown under normal or high glucose conditions for 6 days. Small interfering Ribonucleic Acid was used to knock down platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 in rat retinal microvascular endothelial cells for loss‐of‐function studies. Retinas and rat retinal microvascular endothelial cells were subjected to Western blot, immunofluorescence labeling, and co‐immunoprecipitation analyses to assess protein levels and interactions. A biotinylated gelatin and fluorescein isothiocyanate‐avidin assay was used for retinal endothelial cell permeability studies.

Results

β‐catenin, β‐catenin/platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 interaction, active Src homology 2 domain‐containing protein tyrosine phosphatase were significantly decreased, while β‐catenin ubiquitination levels and endothelial permeability were significantly increased, in hyperglycemic retinal endothelial cells. Similar results were observed with platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 partial knockdown, where β‐catenin and active Src homology 2 domain‐containing protein tyrosine phosphatase levels were decreased, while phospho‐β‐catenin and retinal endothelial cell permeability were increased.

Conclusion

Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 loss may contribute to increased retinal endothelial cell permeability by attenuating β‐catenin levels under hyperglycemic conditions.
Effect of NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine on microvascular blood flow and glucose metabolism after an oral glucose load
Authors: Högstedt Alexandra , Iredahl Fredrik , Tesselaar Erik , Farnebo Simon
Published: October 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the effects on local blood flow and metabolic changes observed in the skin after an endogenous systemic increase in insulin are mediated by the endothelial nitric oxide pathway, by administering the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine using microdialysis.

Methods

Microdialysis catheters, perfused with NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine and with a control solution, were inserted intracutaneously in 12 human subjects, who received an oral glucose load to induce a systemic hyperinsulinemia. During microdialysis, the local blood flow was measured by urea clearance and by laser speckle contrast imaging, and glucose metabolites were measured.

Results

After oral glucose intake, microvascular blood flow and glucose metabolism were both significantly suppressed in the NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine catheter compared to the control catheter (urea clearance: P < .006, glucose dialysate concentration: P < .035). No significant effect of NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine on microvascular blood flow was observed with laser speckle contrast imaging (P = .81).

Conclusion

Local delivery of NG‐monomethyl l‐arginine to the skin by microdialysis reduces microvascular blood flow and glucose delivery in the skin after oral glucose intake, presumably by decreasing local insulin‐mediated vasodilation.
BldD, a master developmental repressor, activates antibiotic production in two Streptomyces species
Authors: Yan Hao , Lu Xiaorui , Sun Di , Zhuang Shuai , Chen Qiong , Chen Zhi , Li Jilun , Wen Ying
Published: October 2019

BldD generally functions as a repressor controlling morphological development of Streptomyces. In this work, evidences that BldD also activates antibiotic production are provided. In Streptomyces roseosporus (which produces daptomycin widely used for treatment of human infections), deletion of bldD notably reduced daptomycin production, but enhanced sporulation. BldD stimulated daptomycin production by directly activating transcription of dpt structural genes and dptR3 (which encodes an indirect activator of daptomycin production), and repressed its own gene. BldD‐binding sites on promoter regions of dptE, dptR3, and bldD were all found to contain BldD box‐like sequences, facilitating prediction of new BldD targets. Two Streptomyces global regulatory genes, adpA and afsR, were confirmed to be directly activated by BldD. The protein AfsR was shown to act as an activator of daptomycin production, but a repressor of development. BldD directly represses nine key developmental genes. In Streptomyces avermitilis (which produces effective anthelmintic agents avermectins), BldD homolog (BldDsav) directly activates avermectin production through ave structural genes and cluster‐situated activator gene aveR. This is the first report that BldD activates antibiotic biosynthesis both directly and via a cascade mechanism. BldD homologs are widely distributed among Streptomyces, our findings suggest that BldD may activate antibiotic production in other Streptomyces species.
China’s Policy Processes and the Advocacy Coalition Framework
Authors: Li Wei , Weible Christopher M.
Published: October 2019

This review of 81 applications of the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) in China between 2006 and 2017 finds that the ACF's hypotheses about the existence and stability of competing advocacy coalitions in policy subsystems, the occurrence of change across its three‐tiered belief system, and the credence of its four pathways to policy change, which have been developed and mostly tested in Western democratic contexts, can be confirmed in China's authoritarian political system and transitional context. This review also finds some unexpected results, which have implications for studying China's policy processes and for future applications of the ACF. Adopting common vocabulary and theoretical foci, ACF applications have captured some of the complexity and evolving features of policy processes in China. Applications of the ACF to China have also enriched the discussions about how authoritarian governments, through interacting with other policy actors, adapt to external changes in transitional context.
HLA‐C*04:01:01:78, a novel variant of HLA‐C*04, detected in a Sumi individual from Nagaland, North‐East India
Authors: Keppen Chenole , Savino Zakiebino , Kapfo Wetetsho , Khamo Vinotsole , Kanga Uma
Published: October 2019

One nucleotide substitution (C > G) in 3′‐UTR of HLA‐C*04:01:01:01 results in the novel allele, HLA‐C*04:01:01:78.
Characterization of an HLA‐C*04:01:01 variant, HLA‐C*04:01:01:76, identified in a Brazilian individual
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Santos Angela , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: October 2019

Characterization of an HLA‐C*04:01:01 variant, HLA‐C*04:01:01:76.
Temporal tissue‐specific regulation of transcriptomes during barley (Hordeum vulgare) seed germination
Authors: Liew Lim Chee , Narsai Reena , Wang Yan , Berkowitz Oliver , Whelan James , Lewsey Mathew G.
Published: October 2019

The distinct functions of individual cell types require cells to express specific sets of genes. The germinating seed is an excellent model to study genome regulation between cell types since the majority of the transcriptome is differentially expressed in a short period, beginning from a uniform, metabolically inactive state. In this study, we applied laser‐capture microdissection RNA‐sequencing to small numbers of cells from the plumule, radicle tip and scutellum of germinating barley seeds every 8 h, over a 48 h time course. Tissue‐specific gene expression was notably common; 25% (910) of differentially expressed transcripts in plumule, 34% (1876) in radicle tip and 41% (2562) in scutellum were exclusive to that organ. We also determined that tissue‐specific storage of transcripts occurs during seed development and maturation. Co‐expression of genes had strong spatiotemporal structure, with most co‐expression occurring within one organ and at a subset of specific time points during germination. Overlapping and distinct enrichment of functional categories were observed in the tissue‐specific profiles. We identified candidate transcription factors amongst these that may be regulators of spatiotemporal gene expression programs. Our findings contribute to the broader goal of generating an integrative model that describes the structure and function of individual cells within seeds during germination.
Functional diversity of cover crop mixtures enhances biomass yield and weed suppression in a Mediterranean agroecosystem
Authors: Ranaldo M , Carlesi S , Costanzo A , Bàrberi P
Published: October 2019

Functional diversity of cover crop mixtures is thought to improve biomass production and weed suppression, two key agroecosystem services in organic systems. To test this hypothesis, we selected eight cover crop species belonging to four functional groups: (i) vining growing large‐seeded legumes (field pea, common vetch), (ii) erect growing small‐seeded legumes (crimson clover, squarrosum clover), (iii) grasses (barley, oats) and (iv) Brassicaceae (radish, black mustard). Nine cover crop mixtures were designed to create a gradient of diversity in terms of number of species and number of functional groups. A control treatment and all monocrops were included in the trial. Regarding cover crop biomass, mixtures outyielded monocrops by an average of 37%. Both functional identity and composition (i.e. trait complementarity) influenced biomass production and weed suppression provided by cover crops. Regression analysis showed that increase in both species diversity and functional diversity in cover crop mixtures improved the provision of agroecosystem services. Results from this study show that complementarity of species functional traits in cover crop mixtures can be used as a strategy to ensure high biomass production and good weed suppression in changing agroecosystems.
The Effects of Teaching Supported by Self-Regulated Learning on Students’ Learning and Studying Responsibility
Authors: Cevat Eker , Akkaş Eşref
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of teaching supported by self-regulated learning on students’ learning and studying responsibility. This research was carried out through “pre-test-post-test control group model”. The sample of the study consisted a total of 52 fifth grade students studying in two different classrooms of an urban primary school located in the West Black Sea Region in Turkey in the 2018-2019 academic year. This study was conducted for 4 weeks and the unit of “Culture and Heritage” in social studies lesson was covered. The learning and studying responsibility scale was used to collect the data. In the analysis of data, pre-test – post-test scores were compared by using t-test for dependent groups. In addition, in order to explain the power of relation, effect size (Cohens' d) values were calculated. The result of the study shows that teaching supported by self-regulated learning is effective and beneficial in students' learning and studying responsibility levels in favour of experimental group. This result demonstrated that teaching supported by self-regulated learning had positive effects on students' learning and studying responsibility.
Whole‐body heat exchange in black‐African and Caucasian men during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat
Authors: Muia Caroline M. , Notley Sean R. , Saci Samah , D'Souza Andrew W. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: October 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Black‐African descendants are thought, by some, to possess genotypic adaptations conducive to survival in hot climates. We therefore assessed whether Canadian residents of black‐African descent display enhanced whole‐body total heat loss (evaporative plus dry heat exchange) in comparison to Caucasian Canadians during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Neither whole‐body total heat loss nor body heat storage differed significantly between groups, irrespective of the exercise intensity. Our findings indicate that genotypic adaptations associated with ethnicity do not appreciably modify whole‐body heat exchange during exercise–heat stress.

Ethnicity has long been thought to modulate thermoregulatory function; however, an evaluation of whole‐body heat exchange in men of black‐African descent and Caucasian men (white‐European descendants), born and raised in the same climate, during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements remained unavailable. We therefore used direct calorimetry to assess whole‐body total heat loss (evaporative plus dry heat exchange) in young (18–30 years of age), second‐generation (or higher) black‐African (n = 11) and Caucasian (n = 11) men. Participants performed three 30 min bouts of semi‐recumbent cycling at fixed metabolic heat productions (and therefore matched heat‐loss requirements between groups) of 200 (light), 250 (moderate) and 300 W m−2 (vigorous), each followed by 15 min recovery, in dry heat (40°C, ∼13% relative humidity). Across all exercise bouts, dry (P = 0.435) and evaporative (P = 0.600) heat exchange did not differ significantly between groups. As such, total heat loss during light, moderate and vigorous exercise was similar between groups (P = 0.777), averaging [mean (SD)] 177 (10), 217 (13) and 244 (20) W m−2 in black‐African men and 172 (13), 212 (17) and 244 (17) W m−2 in Caucasian men. Accordingly, body heat storage across all exercise bouts (summation of metabolic heat production and total heat loss) was also similar between the black‐African [568 (142) kJ] and Caucasian groups [623 (124) kJ; P = 0.356]. We demonstrated that, when assessed in young, second‐generation (or higher) black‐African and Caucasian men during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat, ethnicity did not significantly modulate whole‐body dry and evaporative heat exchange or the resulting changes in total heat loss and body heat storage.
Relationship Between Lateral Patellar Stability and Tibial Tubercle Location for Varying Patellofemoral Geometries
Authors: Clouthier Allison L. , Borschneck Daniel , Thelen Darryl G. , Deluzio Kevin J. , Rainbow Michael J.
Published: October 2019

The geometry of the patellofemoral joint affects function and pathology. However, the impact of trochlear groove depth on treatments for patellar instability and pain is not clear. Tibial tubercle osteotomy is a common surgical intervention for patellar instability where the tibial insertion of the patellar tendon (PT) is translated to align the extensor mechanism and stabilize the joint. The aim of this work was to investigate the interaction between trochlear groove depth and PT insertion and their effect on patellar stability. Patellofemoral geometry was modified based on a statistical shape model to create knees with a range of trochlear groove depths. A Monte Carlo approach was used and 750 instances of a musculoskeletal model were generated with varying geometry and anterior and medial transfer of the PT. Stability was assessed by applying a lateral perturbation force to the patella during simulation of overground walking. In knees with deep trochlear grooves, a medialized PT increased stability. However, in knees with shallow trochlear grooves, stability was maximized for tendon insertion ∼1 mm medial to its neutral location. This PT insertion also corresponded to the best alignment of the patella in the trochlear groove in these knees, indicating that good alignment may be important to maximizing stability. Anterior PT transfer had minimal effect on stability for all geometries. A better understanding of the effects of articular geometry and tubercle location on stability may aid clinicians in patient-specific surgical planning.
Statistical Methodology for a Quantified Validation of Sodium Fast Reactor Simulation Tools
Authors: Marie N. , Marrel A. , Herbreteau K.
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a statistical methodology for a quantified validation of the OCARINa simulation tool, which models the unprotected transient overpower (UTOP) accidents. This validation on CABRI experiments is based on a best-estimate plus uncertainties (BEPU) approach. To achieve this, a general methodology based on recent statistical techniques is developed. In particular, a method for the quantification of multivariate data is applied for the visualization of simulator outputs and their comparison with experiments. Still for validation purposes, a probabilistic indicator is proposed to quantify the degree of agreement between the simulator OCARINa and the experiments, taking into account both experimental uncertainties and those on OCARINa inputs. Going beyond a qualitative validation, this work is of great interest for the verification, validation and uncertainty quantification or evaluation model development and assessment process approaches, which leads to the qualification of scientific calculation tools. Finally, for an in-depth analysis of the influence of uncertain parameters, a sensitivity analysis based on recent dependence measures is also performed. The usefulness of the statistical methodology is demonstrated on CABRI-E7 and CABRI-E12 tests. For each case, the BEPU propagation study is carried out performing 1000 Monte Carlo simulations with the OCARINa tool, with nine uncertain input parameters. The validation indicators provide a quantitative conclusion on the validation of the OCARINa tool on both transients and highlight future efforts to strengthen the demonstration of validation of safety tools. The sensitivity analysis improves the understanding of the OCARINa tool and the underlying UTOP scenario.
Angular Distribution of Neutrons Around Thick Beryllium Target of Accelerator-Based 9Be(d, n) Neutron Source
Authors: Shehada A. M. , Golovkov V. M.
Published: October 2019

An experimental work and simulations were carried out to determine the angular distributions of neutrons and yields of the 9Be(d, n) reaction over all angular range (360 deg) on a thick beryllium target as an accelerator-based neutron source at incident-deuteron energy 13.6 MeV. The neutron activation method was used in the experimental part using aluminum and iron foils as detectors to calculate the neutron flux. The Monte Carlo neutral-particles code (MCNP5) was used to demonstrate and simulate the neutron distribution, also to understand and compare with the experimental results. The neutron energy spectrum was computed using the projection angular-momentum coupled evaporation code PACE4 (LISE++) and the spectrum was adopted in MCNP5 code. Two experimental ways were used, one with beryllium target and another one without the beryllium target, to evaluate the neutron flux emitted only by the beryllium target. Typical computational results were presented and are compared with the previous experimental data to evaluate the computing model as well as the characteristics of emitted neutrons produced by the 9Be(d, n) reaction with a thick Be-target. Moreover, the results can be used to optimize the shielding and collimating system for neutron therapy.
Automating the Derivation of the Equations of Motion of a Multibody Dynamic System With Uncertainty Using Polynomial Chaos Theory and Variational Work
Authors: Ryan Paul S. , Baxter Sarah C. , Voglewede Philip A.
Published: October 2019

Understanding how variation impacts a multibody dynamic (MBD) system's response is important to ensure the robustness of a system. However, how the variation propagates into the MBD system is complicated because MBD systems are typically governed by a system of large differential algebraic equations. This paper presents a novel process, variational work, along with the polynomial chaos multibody dynamics (PCMBoD) automation process for utilizing polynomial chaos theory (PCT) in the analysis of uncertainties in an MBD system. Variational work allows the complexity of the traditional PCT approach to be reduced. With variational work and the constrained Lagrangian formulation, the equations of motion of an MBD PCT system can be constructed using the PCMBoD automated process. To demonstrate the PCMBoD process, two examples, a mass-spring-damper and a two link slider–crank mechanism, are shown.
Modeling and Analysis of Spatial Flexible Mechanical Systems With a Spherical Clearance Joint Based on the LuGre Friction Model
Authors: Tan Xiao , Chen Guoping , Shao Hanbo
Published: October 2019

A computational methodology for modeling spatial flexible mechanical systems with stick-slip friction in a spherical clearance joint is presented. A modified three-dimensional (3D) absolute nodal coordinate formulation based shear deformable beam element with two nodes is proposed and employed to discretize the flexible components. To avoid locking problems, we employed an enhanced continuum mechanics approach to evaluate the beam element elastic forces. The strain components εyz, εyy, and εzz are approximated using linear interpolation to improve the computational efficiency while the loss of accuracy is acceptable. The contact and friction forces in a spherical clearance joint were evaluated by the hybrid contact and LuGre friction models, respectively. Three numerical examples are presented and discussed. A simple pendulum was utilized to prove the correctness of the modified beam element. A classical slider–crank mechanism was employed to validate the computational methodology. A spatial rigid–flexible slider–crank mechanism with a spherical clearance joint was used to investigate the effect of link flexibility and joint clearance on the dynamic behavior of mechanical systems. Using the LuGre friction model, we reproduced the Stribeck effect as it is expected in real world settings. The components with appropriate stiffness play the role of suspension for spatial mechanical systems with imperfect joints. The vibrations of the flexible components play an active role of intensifying the collision in kinematic joint with clearance.
Numerical Investigation on Heat and Mass Transfer of Volatile Flammable Gases Within the Nuclear Reactor Containment
Authors: Wang Yan-Feng , Liang Xi-Mei , Chu Ying-Jie , Wu Jiang-Tao
Published: October 2019

Diffusion of volatile flammable species in the air can cause a fire risk within the nuclear reactor containment. However, computational prediction on species concentration distributions remains significantly difficult due to a shortage of multicomponent diffusion coefficients. In this work, considerable effort has been made to calculate concentration distributions of formaldehyde and benzene vapor volatilized from radiation-proof coatings of reactor containment walls. For this purpose, a numerical model is proposed to simulate species transport and concentration distributions due to full multicomponent diffusion and thermal diffusion. Meanwhile, the in-house UDFs' source code is programmed for solving diffusivities and essential thermophysical properties. After compiling and linking the source code with the numerical model, a pressure-based SIMPLE algorithm is imposed for pressure–velocity coupling calculations. Computational results indicate that concentration distributions are highly dependent on the fluid motion as well as potentially flammable areas decrease gradually with increased ventilation rates. Also, primary and secondary vortices are symmetrically distributed about the vertical centerline of the reactor containment as well as triangular secondary vortices can significantly suppress concentrations of formaldehyde and benzene vapor at the bottom portion of the containment. Finally, excellent agreement is observed between computational results and analytical solutions.
Physics and the Development of Railway Steam Engines
Authors: Tan B. T. G.
Published: October 2019

With the rapid spread of high-speed railway technology, there is a resurgence of interest in trains and railways. The main propulsive engine for railways was the steam engine for over a century, which gave way to the diesel and electrical engines. The steam engine was crucial to the birth and development of the railway industry, and understanding its evolution and application to railways can usefully illustrate a number of key principles in physics, particularly in heat and thermodynamics.
Estimating the temperatures of possibly habitable extrasolar planets
Authors: LoPresto Michael C.
Published: October 2019

A possible extension activity to a recently published exercise on using actual real data from the Kepler mission to identify “possibly habitable” exoplanets in the habitable zones of their stars that could be offered to students is, once they have been identified, to calculate average surface temperatures for these planets and see if they are indeed within the habitability range of temperatures, 273 K to 373 K, at which water can exist as liquid.
Early Career Professionals’ (Researchers, Practitioners, and Policymakers) Role in Advocating, Disseminating, and Implementing the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity: ISPAH Early Career Network View
Authors: Direito Artur , Murphy Joseph J. , Mclaughlin Matthew , Mair Jacqueline , Mackenzie Kelly , Kamada Masamitsu , Sutherland Rachel , Montgomery Shannon , Shilton Trevor , _ _
Published: October 2019

Increasing population levels of physical activity (PA) can assist in achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals, benefiting multiple sectors and contributing to global prosperity. Practices and policies to increase PA levels exist at the subnational, national, and international levels. In 2018, the World Health Organization launched the first Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA). The GAPPA provides guidance through a framework of effective and feasible policy actions for increasing PA, and requires engagement and advocacy from a wide spectrum of stakeholders for successful implementation of the proposed actions. Early career professionals, including researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, can play a major role with helping “all people being regularly active” by contributing to 4 overarching areas: (1) generation—of evidence, (2) dissemination—of key messages and evidence, (3) implementation—of the evidence-based actions proposed in the GAPPA, and (4) contributing to advocacy for robust national action plans on PA. The contribution of early career professionals can be achieved through 5 pathways: (1) research, (2) workplace/practice, (3) business, (4) policy, and (5) professional and public opinion. Recommendations of how early career professionals can contribute to the generation, dissemination, and implementation of the evidence and actions proposed by the GAPPA are provided.
Nodular fasciitis of the parotid gland engulfing the facial nerve: a conservative approach
Authors: Bennett Stephen , Hutson Kristian , Ajayi Olakunle , Hilger Andreas
Published: October 2019

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly growing benign lesion rarely reported in the parotid gland. It shares cytological features with other benign and malignant parotid neoplasms and may be difficult to diagnose based on fine needle aspiration cytology alone. Given this diagnostic conundrum, surgical excision for histology is recommended to facilitate definitive diagnosis. A case with significant involvement of the facial nerve is described, which has not previously been reported in the literature. Despite features of potential malignancy, the decision was taken to biopsy the lesion and not proceed to complete excision in an attempt to reduce the risk of facial nerve injury. Expert opinion later diagnosed NF. Contrary to accepted practice, where diagnostic uncertainty remains around the malignant potential of a lesion, risks and benefits of complete excision versus a conservative approach should be carefully weighed especially when the facial nerve is involved and NF is a possible diagnosis.
Genetic and clinical findings in a Chinese cohort with Leber congenital amaurosis and early onset severe retinal dystrophy
Authors: Xu Ke , Xie Yue , Sun Tengyang , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Chunjie , Li Yang
Published: October 2019

Background

Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and early onset severe retinal dystrophy (EOSRD) are clinically and genetically heterogeneous inherited retinal disorders that cause severe visual impairment in children. The objective of this study was to describe the mutation profile and phenotypic characteristics in Chinese patients with LCA or EOSRD.

Methods

Retrospective consecutive case series (2010–2017) study was performed in 148 probands (91 with LCA and 57 with EOSRD). All patients underwent ophthalmic evaluation. Mutations were revealed using targeted next-generation sequencing, followed by Sanger DNA-sequencing and real-time quantitative PCR analysis.

Results

We identified two diseasing-causing mutations in 88 unrelated patients, heterozygous autosomal dominant mutations in 11 probands and X-linked hemizygous mutations in 11 patients, for an overall mutation detection rate of 74.3% (110/148). We detected 158 different disease-causing mutations involving 14 LCA genes, 16 retinitis pigmentosa or cone-rod dystrophy genes and 3 syndromic retinal dystrophy genes. Of these 158 mutations, 98 were novel. The most common mutation was p.Q141X of AIPL1, with a gene-specific allele frequency of 60%. The first five most frequently mutated genes were AIPL1 (11.0%), RPGRIP1 (8.8%) and CEP290, GUCY2D and RPE65 (each 7.7%) in the patients with LCA and RPGR (12.3%), CRB1 (10.5%), RPE65 (10.5%), RDH12 (7.0%) and RP2 (5.3%) in the patients with EOSRD.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that the mutation spectrum of patients with LCA differs from that of the patients with EOSRD and established the configuration of the mutation frequencies for each LCA gene in Chinese patients, thereby providing essential information for future genetic counselling and gene therapy.
Assessing the quality, efficiency and usefulness of the Western Australian population-based Intellectual Disability Exploring Answers (IDEA) surveillance system: a surveillance system evaluation
Authors: Strobel Natalie A , Bourke Jenny , Leonard Helen , Richardson Alice , Edmond Karen M , McAullay Daniel
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Our overall aim was to evaluate the Western Australian Intellectual Disability Exploring Answers (IDEA) surveillance system. The primary objective was to evaluate the attributes of the system. The secondary objective was to provide recommendations to data custodians and stakeholders to strengthen the system.

Method

The IDEA system was evaluated using process observation, interviews and secondary data analysis of system attributes: usefulness, simplicity, data quality, acceptability, representativeness, timeliness and stability. 2001 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines were used.

Results

We found that the IDEA system was useful, simple, flexible, acceptable, representative, timely and stable. We compared individuals from the IDEA system (n=10 593) with those with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability (ID) (n=582) from another surveillance system. Of the 582 with cerebral palsy and ID, 501 (86.1%) were in the IDEA system and 81 (13.9%) were not. In total, 0.7% of cases (81/10674) with ID were not identified in the IDEA system. There were little differences in cases that were not identified in the IDEA system between Indigenous status, sex and place of residence.

Conclusions

The strengths of the IDEA system include having a high data quality resource contributing to national and international data on ID, strong government support and a dedicated management team. Output from studies linking to IDEA data have had major contributions to the international literature about ID. However, limited resources have prevented it from realising its full potential in relation to translational activities. The IDEA system is a valuable resource to address the needs of people living with ID.
Quality and outcomes in global cancer surgery: protocol for a multicentre, international, prospective cohort study (GlobalSurg 3)
Authors:   NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Global Surgery
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Empirical, observational data relating to the diagnosis, management and outcome of three common worldwide cancers requiring surgery is lacking. However, it has been demonstrated that patients in low/middle-income countries undergoing surgery for cancer are at increased risk of death and major complications postoperatively. This study aims to determine quality and outcomes in breast, gastric and colorectal cancer surgery across worldwide hospital settings.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre, international prospective cohort study will be undertaken by any hospital providing emergency or elective surgical services for breast, gastric or colorectal cancer. Centres will collect observational data on consecutive patients undergoing primary emergency or elective surgery for breast, gastric or colorectal cancer during a 6-month period. The primary outcome is the incidence of mortality and major complication rate at 30 days after cancer surgery. Infrastructure and care processes in the treatment of these cancers worldwide will also be characterised.

Ethics and dissemination

This project will not affect clinical practice and has been classified as clinical audit following research ethics review. The protocol will be disseminated through the international GlobalSurg network.

Trial registration number

NCT03471494; Pre-results.
Lower secondary school students’ scientific literacy and their proficiency in identifying and appraising health claims in news media: a secondary analysis using large-scale survey data
Authors: Nordheim Lena Victoria , Pettersen Kjell Sverre , Espehaug Birgitte , Flottorp Signe Agnes , Guttersrud Øystein
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Scientific literacy is assumed necessary for appraising the reliability of health claims. Using a national science achievement test, we explored whether students located at the lower quartile on the latent trait (scientific literacy) scale were likely to identify a health claim in a fictitious brief news report, and whether students located at or above the upper quartile were likely to additionally request information relevant for appraising that claim.

Design

Secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data.

Setting and participants

2229 Norwegian 10th grade students (50% females) from 97 randomly sampled lower secondary schools who performed the test during April–May 2013.

Outcome measures

Using Rasch modelling, we linked item difficulty and student proficiency in science to locate the proficiencies associated with different percentiles on the latent trait scale. Estimates of students’ proficiency, the difficulty of identifying the claim and the difficulty of making at least one request for information to appraise that claim, were reported in logits.

Results

Students who reached the lower quartile (located at −0.5 logits) on the scale were not likely to identify the health claim as their proficiency was below the difficulty estimate of that task (0.0 logits). Students who reached the upper quartile (located at 1.4 logits) were likely to identify the health claim but barely proficient at making one request for information (task difficulty located at 1.5 logits). Even those who performed at or above the 90th percentile typically made only one request for information, predominantly methodological aspects.

Conclusions

When interpreting the skill to request relevant information as expressing students’ proficiency in critical appraisal of health claims, we found that only students with very high proficiency in science possessed that skill. There is a need for teachers, healthcare professionals and researchers to collaborate to create learning resources for developing these lifelong learning skills.