bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The assessment of environmental and external cross-contamination in preparing ready-to-administer cytotoxic drugs: a comparison between a robotic system and conventional manual production
Authors: Werumeus Buning Annabel , Geersing Tjerk H , Crul Mirjam
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The primary aim of the study was to compare environmental and external (cross-) contamination of traces of cytostatics, during preparation of 5-fluorouracil and cyclophosphamide using a robotic system (APOTECAchemo) or the conventional manual compounding procedure. The secondary aim was to validate the cleaning procedure of the robot.

Methods

Eighty ready-to-administer (RTA) infusion bags with 5-fluorouracil, cyclophosphamide or sodium chloride were compounded using both techniques on 3–5 days. Wipe samples were taken from several locations in the compounding room before and after cleaning, and also from the technician’s gloves. These samples were analysed for 5-fluorouracil and cyclophosphamide concentrations using GC/MS/MS.

Key findings

A total of 284 wipe samples were collected during the study (113 from the manual and 171 from the robotic process). External contamination on the outside of infusion bags was 3.75% for both manual and robotic compounding. For manual compounding, external cross-contamination occurred on 2.5% of the prepared infusion bags. External cross-contamination occurred on 1.25% of the infusion bags for the robotic procedure. Inside the compounding room, 9% of the environmental wipe samples were contaminated in case of manual production and 24% for robotic compounding. Since 50% of the contaminated environmental samples for the robotic system were taken after cleaning, the cleaning procedure was extended and parameter setting for cyclophosphamide handling was performed. After this, residual environmental or external contamination was no longer detectable.

Conclusion

Comparison of both preparation methods showed that external (cross-)contamination of infusion bags was lower using the robotic system. An optimized cleaning procedure showed the best results in environmental contamination for the robot.
Longitudinal association between adiposity and inter‐arm blood pressure difference
Authors: Muñoz‐Torres Francisco J. , Andriankaja Oelisoa M. , Ruiz José I. , Joshipura Kaumudi J.
Published: September 2019

This is the first longitudinal study evaluating whether adiposity is associated with inter‐arm blood pressure difference. We evaluated 714 overweight/obese individuals aged 40‐65 years over a 3‐year follow‐up. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured in both arms simultaneously using an automated machine. Linear regression assessed the associations of body mass index, fat %, waist, neck, thigh, and arm circumferences (cm), with absolute inter‐arm differences in systolic (IAS) and diastolic (IAD) blood pressure (mm Hg). Poisson regression was used for binary outcomes (IAS and IAD ≥ 10 mm Hg). All models were adjusted for age, gender, smoking, physical activity, and HOMA‐IR. Adiposity measures were associated with increased IAS and IAD (β range: 0.09‐0.20 and 0.09‐0.30). Neck circumference showed the strongest association with IAS (β = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.37) and IAD (β = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.47); arm circumference showed a similar association with IAS, but lower with IAD. Highest quartiles of BMI, thigh, and arm showed significant associations with IAS (IRR: 2.21, 2.46 and 2.70). Highest quartiles of BMI, waist, neck, and arm circumferences were significantly associated with IAD (IRR: 2.38, 2.68, 4.50 and 2.24). If the associations are corroborated in other populations, adiposity may be an important modifiable risk factor for inter‐arm blood pressure difference with a large potential public health impact.
Exosomes from miR‐20b‐3p‐overexpressing stromal cells ameliorate calcium oxalate deposition in rat kidney
Authors: Shi Jing , Duan Junyao , Gong Huijie , Pang Yuewen , Wang Ling , Yan Yongji
Published: September 2019

Hyperoxaluria‐induced calcium oxalate (CaOx) deposition is the key factor in kidney stone formation, for which adipose‐derived stromal cells (ADSCs) have been used as a therapeutic treatment. Studies revealed that miR‐20b‐3p is down‐regulated in hypercalciuric stone‐forming rat kidney. To investigate whether ADSC‐derived miR‐20b‐3p‐enriched exosomes protect against kidney stones, an ethylene glycol (EG)‐induced hyperoxaluria rat model and an in vitro model of oxalate‐induced NRK‐52E cells were established to explore the protective mechanism of miR‐20b‐3p. The results showed that miR‐20b‐3p levels were decreased following hyperoxaluria in the urine of patients and in kidney tissues from animal models. Furthermore, treatment with miR‐20b‐3p‐enriched exosomes from ADSCs protected EG‐induced hyperoxaluria rats, and cell experiments confirmed that co‐culture with miR‐20b‐3p‐enriched exosomes alleviated oxalate‐induced cell autophagy and the inflammatory response by inhibiting ATG7 and TLR4. In conclusion, ADSC‐derived miR‐20b‐3p‐enriched exosomes protected against kidney stones by suppressing autophagy and inflammatory responses.
miR‐20a‐5p regulates pulmonary surfactant gene expression in alveolar type II cells
Authors: Gong Yongjian , Xu Weidong , Chen Yang , Liu Yun , Yang Yuan , Wang Beibei , Lu Zhitao , Lin Hung‐Chih , Zhou Xiaoyu , Zhou Xiaoguang
Published: September 2019

MicroRNA (miRNA) critically controls gene expression in many biological processes, including lung growth and pulmonary surfactant biosynthesis. The present study was conducted to investigate whether miR‐20a‐5p had such regulatory functions on alveolar type II (AT‐II) cells. To accomplish this, miR‐20a‐5p–overexpressed and miR‐20a‐5p–inhibited adenoviral vectors were constructed and transfected into cultured AT‐II cells that were isolated from rat foetal lungs of 19 days' gestation. Transfection efficiency was confirmed by observing the fluorescence of green fluorescent protein (GFP) carried by the viral vector, whereas miR‐20a‐5p levels were verified by real‐time PCR. The CCK‐8 assay was used to compare the proliferation ability of AT‐II cells that had over‐ or underexpressed miR‐20a‐5p. The expression of surfactant‐associated proteins (SPs) and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was measured by real‐time PCR and Western blotting. In AT‐II cells, transfection resulted in over‐ or under‐regulation of miR‐20a‐5p. While overexpression of miR‐20a‐5p promoted pulmonary surfactant gene expression, its underexpression inhibited it. Consistent with its role in negatively regulating the pulmonary surfactant gene, an opposite pattern was observed for miR‐20a‐5p regulation of PTEN. As a result, when miR‐20a‐5p was rendered overexpressed, PTEN was down‐regulated. By contrast, when miR‐20a‐5p was underexpressed, PTEN was up‐regulated. Neither overexpression nor underexpression of miR‐20a‐5p altered the cell proliferation. miR‐20a‐5p plays no role in proliferation of foetal AT‐II cells but is a critical regulator of surfactant gene expression. The latter appears to be achieved through a regulatory process that implicates expression of PTEN.
Amygdala and affective responses to infant pictures: Comparing depressed and non‐depressed mothers and non‐mothers
Authors: Dudin Aya , Wonch Kathleen E. , Davis Andrew D. , Steiner Meir , Fleming Alison S. , Hall Geoffrey B.
Published: September 2019

In many mammalian species, new mothers show heightened positive responsiveness to infants and their cues when they give birth. As is evident from non‐human and human studies, the amygdala is a brain region implicated in both the maternal and affective neural circuitry, and is involved in processing socioemotionally salient stimuli. In humans, infants are socially salient stimuli to women, and mothers in particular. Neuroimaging studies investigating the maternal response to infant cues have identified infant‐related amygdala function as an important factor in maternal anxiety/depression, in the quality of mothering and in individual differences in the motivation to mother. The present study investigated the effects of maternal status and depression on the subjective affective response and amygdala responsiveness to unfamiliar infants using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Smiling infant pictures were used in a 2 × 2 design comparing four groups of women: mothers and non‐mothers, with and without depression (total of 101 women: postpartum depression [PPD] = 32, non‐PPD = 25, major depression [MDD] = 15, non‐MDD = 29). We undertook an anatomically defined region of interest analysis of the amygdala response for a priori defined group comparisons. We found that mothers rated infants more positively than non‐mothers and non‐mothers rated non‐infant stimuli (scenery) more positively than mothers. In the amygdala, we found that depression elevated response to smiling unfamiliar infants in mothers but had no effect in non‐mothers. Within the depressed groups, mothers (PPD) showed an elevated amygdala response to unfamiliar smiling infants compared to depressed non‐mothers. Hence, our results indicate that women with PPD show an enhanced amygdala response to affectively positive infant pictures but not to affectively positive (but non‐salient) pictures of scenery. Women with depression outside of the postpartum period show no change in amygdala responsiveness to either stimulus categories.
Prospective, preclinical comparison of the performance between radiofrequency microneedling and microneedling alone in reversing photoaged skin
Authors: Hong Ji Yeon , Kwon Tae‐Rin , Kim Jong Hwan , Lee Byung Chul , Kim Beom Joon
Published: September 2019

Background

There is a tremendous demand for dermal rejuvenation with minimal invasiveness and patient downtime.

Aims

In this study, we evaluated the performance of nonfractional monopolar radiofrequency for the improvement of photoaged skin texture and wrinkles.

Methods

In total, 32 6‐week‐old female hairless mice were randomized into four groups of eight mice each: (a) healthy control, (b) UVB‐exposed, (c) UVB + microneedling, and (d) UVB + microneedle RF. After applying each treatment modality, skin surface was globally investigated and histologically evaluated senile skin change. Immunohistochemistry was tested with the primary antibody to collagen type I and III.

Results

After UVB exposure, the Ra value was significantly increased, leading to clinical development of wrinkles with xerotic scales. Depth and number of wrinkles showed gradual improvement in RF‐treated mice. The mean Ra value of the RF‐treated group decreased significantly. The RF‐treated group showed decreased epidermal thickness, suppression of dermal inflammatory cell infiltration, and increased density of collagen fibers and amount of elastic fibers.

Conclusions

Microneedle RF treatment alleviates photoaged skin texture and wrinkles in this mouse model. To the best of our knowledge, our results provide the first evidence that a nonfractional monopolar microneedle radiofrequency device may contribute to the treatment of UV‐damaged skin.
Serum YKL40: A novel potential link between inflammation and dyslipidemia in acne vulgaris
Authors: Ebrahim Adel , Mustafa Amany Ibrahim , El‐Shimi Ola Samir , Fathy Mai Abdallah
Published: September 2019

Background

Acne vulgaris (AV) is an inflammatory skin disorder that may be associated with metabolic disorders. The relation between lipid profile in acne is not widely investigated. Chitinase‐3‐like protein 1 (YKL‐40) has been found to be implicated in different inflammatory conditions.

Aims

We aimed at investigating the role YKL‐40 in acne pathogenesis and associated dyslipidemia in acne patients.

Patients/Methods

This study included 50 acne vulgaris patients and 30 matched control subjects. Serum YKL‐40 in addition to lipid profile were assessed in all studied subjects.

Results

Serum YKL‐40 level was significantly elevated in acne patients than healthy controls (P < .001). We also found a significant positive correlations between serum YKL‐40, serum TGs, TC, and LDL‐C (P value: .022, .001, .017 respectively) while, a significant negative correlation between serum YKL‐40 and HDL‐c (P value: .036) was detected.

Conclusion

Our study results suggest that YKL‐40 might have a role in AV pathogenesis. In addition, it could provide a new potential link between inflammation and dyslipidemia observed in acne patients.
A mini review on the common methods of pain reduction before filler and botulinum toxin injection
Authors: Fallahi Hamid Reza , keyhan Seied Omid , Zandian Dana , Sabzian Roya
Published: September 2019

Background

As the desire for beauty and youthful appearance has increased in recent years, cosmetic injections are getting more attention. However, patients discomfort during these injections is a challenging issue.

Aim

This review explores common approaches to reduce pain and discomfort during cosmetic injections through the available literature.

Methods

The eligible studies through searching in PubMed have been entered to evaluate the common methods of pain reduction for cosmetic injections.

Results

According to reviewed studies, vibration, local anesthesia, and vapocoolant anesthesia are common methods applied in order to reduce pain and discomfort in patients. All of these methods are able to reduce pain through their affects on neuron fibers. Conclusion: It seems that all common approaches can result in some amount of pain reduction. Using a combination of these methods during injections, practitioners can successfully reduce the pain of injection.
Effects of sinomenine in LPS‐associated diseases are related to inhibition of LBP, Mac‐1, and L‐selectin levels
Authors: Yang Haifeng , Wang Jing , Chen Xiaolan , Jiang Chunmao , He Kongwang , Li Bin , Hu Yiyi
Published: September 2019

The aim of the research was to investigate the anti‐endotoxin and anti‐inflammatory effects of Sinomenine, an agent commonly found in Chinese herbal medicines. Endotoxin (i.e., 1 mg lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/kg)) was administered via intraperitoneal (IP) injection to piglets in high‐, middle‐, and low‐dose sinomenine groups. Piglets were then treated with 1, 5 or 10 mg/kg sinomenine, intramuscularly (i.m.), 3 hr after LPS. Vehicle was administered, as above, to drug control group piglets followed 3 hr later by 10 mg/kg sinomenine i.m.. LPS control group piglets were challenged with 1 mg/kg LPS IP, followed by vehicle i.m., and naïve control piglets were treated with normal saline IP, followed by normal saline i.m., as above. Temperatures were measured, and blood samples were collected from the precaval veins of piglets at 12, 24, and 48 hr post‐LPS or vehicle injection. Clinical signs were recorded, and index levels were analyzed via ELISA. Sinomenine was found to reduce the incidence and severity of LPS‐induced toxicities, including body temperature elevation, cell adhesion, and systemic inflammation. These data suggest that sinomenine may be effective for regulating inflammatory responses and has the potential for use as an anti‐endotoxin therapy.
The pharmacokinetics of cytarabine administered at three distinct subcutaneous dosing protocols in dogs with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin
Authors: Jones Aslynn , McGrath Stephanie , Gustafson Daniel L.
Published: September 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of the standard cytarabine (Ara‐C) protocol (50 mg/m2 subcutaneously every 12 hr for 2 days) used for dogs with neuroinflammatory disease and compare it to two more practical protocols (a single 200 mg/m2 subcutaneous dose and two 100 mg/m2 subcutaneous doses every 12 hr). Four client‐owned dogs previously diagnosed with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin were administered three distinct Ara‐C protocols with a 21‐day washout between each protocol. A complete blood count was performed seven days after each dosing protocol to assess for clinically relevant myelosuppression. No adverse events were observed. Plasma Ara‐C concentrations were measured using a validated liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry assay. The mean maximal concentrations in this study were 4,230, 9,293, and 16,675 ng/ml for a single dose of 50, 100, and 200 mg/m2, respectively. There was a linear relationship between dose and drug exposure. Drug exposure was similar regardless of the dosing protocol when the total dose was analyzed, with an area under the concentration versus time curve of 37,026, 38,465, and 32,510 ng × hr/ml for 50, 100, and 200 mg/m2, respectively.
A Note on Specification Testing in Some Structural Regression Models
Authors: Beckert Walter
Published: September 2019

There exists a useful framework for jointly implementing Durbin–Wu–Hausman exogeneity and Sargan–Hansen overidentification tests, as a single artificial regression. This note sets out the framework for linear models and discusses its extension to nonlinear models. It also provides an empirical example and some Monte Carlo results.
Fossil liberation: a model to explain high biodiversity in the Triassic Cassian Formation
Authors: Roden Vanessa Julie , Hausmann Imelda M. , Nützel Alexander , Seuss Barbara , Reich Mike , Urlichs Max , Hagdorn Hans , Kiessling Wolfgang
Published: September 2019

With 1429 animal species, the Triassic Cassian Formation in the Dolomites, Southern Alps (Italy), yields the highest species richness reported from any spatially constrained pre‐Quaternary formation known to science. The high preserved diversity is partly attributable to a high primary diversity governed by the tropical setting, increasing alpha diversity, and the breadth of habitats spurring beta diversity. More important is the excellent preservation of fossils and the ease with which they can be extracted from the poorly lithified sediments. We propose the term ‘liberation Lagerstätten’ to capture this preservational window. In contrast to conservation Lagerstätten, liberation Lagerstätten like the Cassian Formation originate from normal marine conditions but low‐grade diagenesis. Molluscs contribute substantially to species richness, comprising 67% of all invertebrate species in the Cassian Formation. The gastropod dominance (39% of all species) is nearly as great as in Recent tropical settings, contradicting the concept of a substantial Cenozoic rise.
Clinical validity and intrarater and test–retest reliability of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐5 – Clinician Version (SCID‐5‐CV)
Authors: Osório Flávia L. , Loureiro Sonia Regina , Hallak Jaime Eduardo C. , Machado‐de‐Sousa João Paulo , Ushirohira Juliana M. , Baes Cristiane V. W. , Apolinario Thiago D. , Donadon Mariana F. , Bolsoni Livia M. , Guimarães Thiago , Fracon Victor S. , Silva‐Rodrigues Ana Paula Casagrande , Pizeta Fernanda Aguiar , Souza Roberto Mascarenhas , Sanches Rafael Faria , dos Santos Rafael G. , Martin‐Santos Rocio , Crippa José Alexandre S.
Published: September 2019

Aim

The Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM is one of the most used diagnostic instruments in clinical research worldwide. The current Clinician Version of the instrument (SCID‐5‐CV) has not yet been assessed in respect to its psychometric qualities. We aimed to assess the clinical validity and different reliability indicators (interrater test–retest, joint interview, face‐to‐face vs telephone application) of the SCID‐5‐CV in a large sample of 180 non‐prototypical and psychiatric patients based on interviews conducted by raters with different levels of clinical experience.

Methods

The SCID‐5‐CV was administered face‐to‐face and by telephone by 12 psychiatrists/psychologists who took turns as raters and observers. Clinical diagnoses were established according to DSM‐5 criteria and the longitudinal, expert, all data (LEAD) procedure. We calculated the percentage of agreement, diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, and the level of agreement (kappa) for diagnostic categories and specific diagnoses.

Results

The percentage of positive agreement between the interview and clinical diagnoses ranged between 73% and 97% and the diagnostic sensitivity/specificity were >0.70. In the joint interview, the levels of positive agreement were high (>75%) and kappa levels were >0.70 for most diagnoses. The values were less expressive, but still adequate, for interrater test–retest interviews.

Conclusion

The SCID‐5‐CV presented excellent reliability and high specificity as assessed with different methods. The clinical validity of the instrument was also confirmed, which supports its use in daily clinical practice. We highlight the adequacy of the instrument to be used via telephone and the need for careful use by professionals with little experience in psychiatric clinical practice.
Cardiovascular disease risk among rural residents living with diabetes and prediabetes: A cluster randomized trial
Authors: Abbott Laurie S. , Slate Elizabeth H. , Graven Lucinda J.
Published: September 2019

Objective

Diabetes is a major health problem that is closely linked with cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death in the United States. The purpose of this analysis was to determine the effect of a culturally relevant diabetes health promotion program on diabetes knowledge and self‐reported self‐care behaviors.

Design

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in 12 rural church settings. Seven churches were randomized to the intervention group and five to the control group.

Sample

The sample included 146 African American participants diagnosed with diabetes and prediabetes.

Intervention

The intervention group participants (n = 75) received the diabetes health program, and those in the control group (n = 71) group received a publicly available diabetes health brochure.

Measures

Data were collected about diabetes knowledge, self‐care activities, fatalism, and social support.

Results

Linear mixed model was the statistical test used to analyze group differences. Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significant changes from pretest to posttest for diabetes knowledge and behaviors associated with diet and blood glucose testing.

Conclusion

Health promotion programs implemented by public health nurses among rural groups at increased risk for developing CVD can facilitate understanding about strategies to reduce disease risk.
Terrorist threat, dehumanization, and right‐wing authoritarianism as predictors of discrimination
Authors: da Costa Silva Khalil , Álvaro José Luis , Torres Ana Raquel Rosas , Garrido Alicia
Published: September 2019

This study analyzed the relationship between terrorist threat and discrimination, operationalized by support for retributive justice against Islamic groups suspect of terrorist crimes. Two experimental studies were performed. Study 1 (N = 215) showed that the terrorist threat against the ingroup raises the support for the retributive procedures through the dehumanization of the outgroup. Study 2 (N = 304) analyzed how the mediating role of dehumanization in the relationship between terrorist threat and support for retributive justice is moderated by right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA). In addition, the study aimed to verify if the dehumanization of outgroup and RWA could explain the relationship between terrorist threat and discrimination of Muslim immigrants. The results indicated that adherence to RWA favors dehumanization of the outgroup and, consecutively, the discrimination, operationalized as support for the use of retributive justice. The adherence to RWA has been identified as the mechanism that explains the discrimination against Muslim immigrants.
Interactive maps, productivity and user experience: A user study in the e‐mobility domain
Authors: Degbelo Auriol , Kruse Jan , Pfeiffer Max
Published: September 2019

E‐mobility has been gaining importance in recent years in Germany, with the National Platform for E‐mobility infrastructure in Germany is expected to change fast, therefore many charging stations will appear. These need to be managed, and the aim of this work is to explore how web applications could best support productivity and user experience in this context. We compared a text‐form‐based approach to a map‐based approach for the addition and update of locations and chargepoints. We found that the map‐based approach yields better learning effects and offers a better compromise between pragmatic and hedonic properties. The results are useful for a better understanding of the impact of interactive maps on work and user experience in the e‐mobility domain and beyond.
The role of the transfusion practitioner in the management of anaemia
Authors: Bielby Linley , Moss Rachel , Mo Allison , McQuilten Zoe , Wood Erica
Published: September 2019

Anaemia is a major public health issue, affecting 25% of the population worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Iron deficiency is responsible for approximately half of all cases globally, with other causes including anaemia of chronic disease, other nutritional deficiencies, haemoglobinopathies, renal impairment, malignancy and bone marrow disease. In the elderly, where anaemia is even more common, the cause is frequently multifactorial. Patient blood management (PBM) is an evidenced‐based, integrated, multidisciplinary approach aimed to improve clinical outcomes by effectively managing anaemia and conserving the patient's own blood, thus reducing unnecessary exposure to transfusion.PBMhas the patient as the central focus, with the aim being to improve their outcomes while including them in the process. The term transfusion practitioner (TP) includes those known as transfusion nurses, transfusion safety officers, haemovigilance officers or patient blood management (PBM) co‐ordinators. A key aspect of the role is driving and influencing clinical blood management activities such asPBMto help align practice to internationally recognized guidelines and standards.TPskills are a valuable asset to support patient groups and clinical settings to be targeted to achieve best outcomes.TPs know the organization and are well placed to help develop anaemia assessment and management concepts and processes, and provide education and support to promote and embed these practices. In this review, we outline the impacts of anaemia in the healthcare setting, along with different approaches to anaemia management (focussing on perioperative care), highlighting where theTPcan support or lead activities.
Using panicle dry weight to estimate seed production inEchinochloa crus‐galli
Authors: Pannwitt H , Westerman P R , De Mol F , Gerowitt B
Published: September 2019

A better understanding of weed seed production is a key element for any long‐term management allowing some weeds to shed seeds. The challenge with measuring seed production in weeds is the large effort required in terms of time and labour. For the weed speciesEchinochloa crus‐galli,it was tested whether the number of seeds per panicle dry weight or per panicle length can be used to estimate seed production. Experiments were conducted in three maize fields in north‐eastern Germany. The effect of factors that could influence this relationship, such as the time of seedling emergence, the density ofE. crus‐galli, the control intensity of other weeds, seed predation and field, was included. A few days before maize harvest, all panicles were removed and weighed, panicle length was measured, and for a subsample of 178 panicles, the number of seeds was counted manually. Panicle dry weight predicted the number of seeds per panicle better (R2 = 0.92) than did panicle length (R2 = 0.69). The other factors except for ‘field’ and ‘seed predation’ had no effect on these relationships. The relationships between seed number and panicle dry weight found in this study closely resembled those reported in an earlier study. Based on our results, we conclude that both plant traits are appropriate for the estimatation of seed production, depending on required level of precision and availablilty of resources for the evaluation of sustainable weed management strategies.
Local Langlands correspondence and ramification for Carayol representations
Authors: Bushnell Colin J. , Henniart Guy
Published: September 2019

Let $F$ be a non-Archimedean locally compact field of residual characteristic $p$ with Weil group ${\mathcal{W}}_{F}$. Let $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$ be an irreducible smooth complex representation of ${\mathcal{W}}_{F}$, realized as the Langlands parameter of an irreducible cuspidal representation $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}$ of a general linear group over $F$. In an earlier paper we showed that the ramification structure of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$ is determined by the fine structure of the endo-class $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}$ of the simple character contained in $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}$, in the sense of Bushnell and Kutzko. The connection is made via the Herbrand function $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}}$ of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}$. In this paper we concentrate on the fundamental Carayol case in which $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$ is totally wildly ramified with Swan exponent not divisible by $p$. We show that, for such $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$, the associated Herbrand function satisfies a certain functional equation, and that this property essentially characterizes this class of representations. We calculate $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}}$ explicitly, in terms of a classical Herbrand function arising naturally from the classification of simple characters. We describe exactly the class of functions arising as Herbrand functions $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EF}}$, as $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EF}$ varies over the set of totally wild endo-classes of Carayol type. In a separate argument, we derive a complete description of the restriction of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$ to any ramification subgroup and hence a detailed interpretation of the Herbrand function. This gives concrete information concerning the Langlands correspondence.
Locality in the Fukaya category of a hyperkähler manifold
Authors: Solomon Jake P. , Verbitsky Misha
Published: September 2019

Let$(M,I,J,K,g)$be a hyperkähler manifold. Then the complex manifold$(M,I)$is holomorphic symplectic. We prove that for all real$x,y$, with$x^{2}+y^{2}=1$except countably many, any finite-energy$(xJ+yK)$-holomorphic curve with boundary in a collection of$I$-holomorphic Lagrangians must be constant. By an argument based on the Łojasiewicz inequality, this result holds no matter how the Lagrangians intersect each other. It follows that one can choose perturbations such that the holomorphic polygons of the associated Fukaya category lie in an arbitrarily small neighborhood of the Lagrangians. That is, the Fukaya category is local. We show that holomorphic Lagrangians are tautologically unobstructed. Moreover, the Fukaya$A_{\infty }$algebra of a holomorphic Lagrangian is formal. Our result also explains why the special Lagrangian condition holds without instanton corrections for holomorphic Lagrangians.
From atoms to physiology: what it takes to really understand inflammasomes
Authors: Schmidt Florian I.
Published: September 2019

Rapid inflammatory responses to cytosolic threats are mediated by inflammasomes – large macromolecular signalling complexes that control the activation of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18, as well as cell death by pyroptosis. Different inflammasome sensors are activated by diverse direct and indirect signals, and subsequently nucleate the polymerization of the adaptor molecule ASC to form signalling platforms macroscopically observed as ASC specks. Caspase‐1 is autocatalytically activated at these sites and subsequently matures pro‐inflammatory cytokines and the pore‐forming effector molecule gasdermin D. While most molecules and basic assembly principles have been deduced from reductionist experimental systems, we still lack fundamental information on the structure and regulation of these complexes in their physiological environment and in the interplay with other signalling pathways. In this review, novel experimental approaches are proposed, including some that rely on nanobodies and single domain antibodies, to understand inflammasome assembly and regulation in the context of the relevant tissues or cells.

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MitoRACE: evaluating mitochondrial function in vivo and in single cells with subcellular resolution using multiphoton NADH autofluorescence
Authors: Willingham T. Bradley , Zhang Yingfan , Andreoni Alessio , Knutson Jay R. , Lee Duck‐Yeon , Glancy Brian
Published: September 2019

Key points

We developed a novel metabolic imaging approach that provides direct measures of the rate of mitochondrial energy conversion with single‐cell and subcellular resolution by evaluating NADH autofluorescence kinetics during the mitochondrial redox after cyanide experiment (mitoRACE).

Measures of mitochondrial NADH flux by mitoRACE are sensitive to physiological and pharmacological perturbations in vivo.

Metabolic imaging with mitoRACE provides a highly adaptable platform for evaluating mitochondrial function in vivo and in single cells with potential for broad applications in the study of energy metabolism.

Mitochondria play a critical role in numerous cell types and diseases, and structure and function of mitochondria can vary greatly among cells or within different regions of the same cell. However, there are currently limited methodologies that provide direct assessments of mitochondrial function in vivo, and contemporary measures of mitochondrial energy conversion lack the spatial resolution necessary to address cellular and subcellular heterogeneity. Here, we describe a novel metabolic imaging approach that provides direct measures of mitochondrial energy conversion with single‐cell and subcellular resolution by evaluating NADH autofluorescence kinetics during the mitochondrial redox after cyanide experiment (mitoRACE). MitoRACE measures the rate of NADH flux through the steady‐state mitochondrial NADH pool by rapidly inhibiting mitochondrial energetic flux, resulting in an immediate, linear increase in NADH fluorescence proportional to the steady‐state NADH flux rate, thereby providing a direct measure of mitochondrial NADH flux. The experiments presented here demonstrate the sensitivity of this technique to detect physiological and pharmacological changes in mitochondrial flux within tissues of living animals and reveal the unique capability of this technique to evaluate mitochondrial function with single‐cell and subcellular resolution in different cell types in vivo and in cell culture. Furthermore, we highlight the potential applications of mitoRACE by showing that within single neurons, mitochondria in neurites have higher energetic flux rates than mitochondria in the cell body. Metabolic imaging with mitoRACE provides a highly adaptable platform for evaluating mitochondrial function in vivo and in single cells, with potential for broad applications in the study of energy metabolism.
Study on Reabsorption Properties of Quantum Dot Color Convertors for Light-Emitting Diode Packaging
Authors: Li Jia-Sheng , Tang Yong , Li Zong-Tao , Kang Wen-Quan , Ding Xin-Rui , Yu Bin-Hai
Published: September 2019

Quantum dot (QD) attracts great attention in light-emitting diode (LED) packaging for high-quality light sources, while it leads to low light efficiency due to the significantly high reabsorption loss between QDs. Accordingly, we experimentally study the reabsorption properties of QD color convertors (QCCs) for LED packaging considering various thicknesses and concentrations under different injection current. The results indicate the QCC configuration with a small thickness and large concentration can have the same absorption ability for chip light as that with the opposite configuration, resulting in the same QD light proportion. However, the QCC configuration having smaller thickness is more useful to decrease the reabsorption loss, leading to higher radiant power (an increase of larger than 37.2%). Moreover, it is essential to gain a high radiant power of QD light with small reabsorption loss, which can be realized by combining QCCs with a low QD content and a source with a large injection current. Based on this simple and effective approach, a conversion loss smaller than 20%, close to their quantum yield, can be achieved, which is approximately four times smaller than that gained by QCCs with a high QD content. However, it introduces additional radiant power of chip light, suppressing further improvement in the QD light proportion. Much work is still required to make full use of the redundant chip light. This study provides a better understanding of the reabsorption properties of QCCs and can significantly accelerate their applications in illumination and display applications.
Lie Symmetry Reductions and Analytic Solutions for the AB System in a Nonlinear Optical Fiber
Authors: Hu Song-Hua , Tian Bo , Du Xia-Xia , Du Zhong , Wu Xiao-Yu
Published: September 2019

In the optical communication, people use the optical fibers to achieve the high bit-rate data transmission. In this paper, the AB system for the ultra-short pulses in a nonlinear optical fiber is investigated via the Lie symmetry analysis. Lie symmetries and symmetry reductions are derived via the Lie algorithm. Periodic- and solitary-wave solutions are obtained via the qualitative consideration. For the magnitude of the electric field in the optical fiber and the function associated with the occupation number which gives a measure of the atomic inversion in the nonlinear optical fiber, we can adjust the amplitudes, widths, and velocities of the solitary waves via the Lie symmetry transformations. The results would help the engineers select the ultra-short pulses in the optical communication.
Probabilistic Response and Stochastic Bifurcation in a Turbulent Swirling Flow
Authors: Yue Xiaole , Wang Yanyan , Han Qun , Xu Yong , Xu Wei
Published: September 2019

Stochastic dynamics in a turbulent swirling flow are reported in this paper via the probability density functions (PDFs) of responses with the generalized cell mapping (GCM) method. Based on the short-time Gaussian approximation (STGA) procedure, the influence generated by the time average and the amplitude of the fluctuation to the turbulent flow on the probabilistic responses are demonstrated. We observe that the shapes of the steady-state PDFs change from two peaks to the single peak with the change of system parameters, indicating that the rotation to shear ratio will change from two stable states into one stable state, while the torque difference of the propellers in the von-Karman turbulence experimental setup becomes large or changes in a wide range. That is to say, the stochastic P-bifurcation phenomena occur. The evolutionary mechanism of the transient response is revealed with the global portraits. Furthermore, the idea of block matrix is devoted to solving the storage problem due to the amount of image cells for the STGA procedure in high dimensional system. Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are in good agreement with the proposed strategy.
Shear Wave Propagation and Estimation of Material Parameters in a Nonlinear, Fibrous Material
Authors: Hou Zuoxian , Okamoto Ruth J. , Bayly Philip V.
Published: September 2019

This paper describes the propagation of shear waves in a Holzapfel–Gasser–Ogden (HGO) material and investigates the potential of magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) for estimating parameters of the HGO material model from experimental data. In most MRE studies the behavior of the material is assumed to be governed by linear, isotropic elasticity or viscoelasticity. In contrast, biological tissue is often nonlinear and anisotropic with a fibrous structure. In such materials, application of a quasi-static deformation (predeformation) plays an important role in shear wave propagation. Closed form expressions for shear wave speeds in an HGO material with a single family of fibers were found in a reference (undeformed) configuration and after imposed predeformations. These analytical expressions show that shear wave speeds are affected by the parameters (μ0, k1, k2, κ) of the HGO model and by the direction and amplitude of the predeformations. Simulations of corresponding finite element (FE) models confirm the predicted influence of HGO model parameters on speeds of shear waves with specific polarization and propagation directions. Importantly, the dependence of wave speeds on the parameters of the HGO model and imposed deformations could ultimately allow the noninvasive estimation of material parameters in vivo from experimental shear wave image data.
How to Carry Loads Economically: Analysis Based on a Predictive Biped Model
Authors: Li Tong , Li Qingguo , Liu Tao , Yi Jingang
Published: September 2019

Carrying heavy loads costs additional energy during walking and leads to fatigue of the user. Conventionally, the load is fixed on the body. Some recent studies showed energy cost reduction when the relative motion of the load with respect to the body was allowed. However, the influences of the load's relative motion on the user are still not fully understood. We employed an optimization-based biped model, which can generate human-like walking motion to study the load–carrier interaction. The relative motion can be achieved by a passive mechanism (such as springs) or a powered mechanism (such as actuators), and the relative motion can occur in the vertical or fore-aft directions. The connection between the load and body is added to the biped model in four scenarios (two types × two directions). The optimization results indicate that the stiffness values affect energy cost differently and the same stiffness value in different directions may have opposite effects. Powered relative motion in either direction can potentially reduce energy cost but the vertical relative motion can achieve a higher reduction than fore-aft relative motion. Surprisingly, powered relative motion only performs marginally better than the passive conditions at similar peak interaction force levels. This work provides insights into developing more economical load-carrying methods and the model presented may be applied to the design and control of wearable load-carrying devices.
Analytical Modeling of Discrete Mechanical Systems Involving Contact, Impact, and Friction
Authors: Natsiavas S.
Published: September 2019

In this study, a review is presented on previous work referring to analytical modeling of mechanical systems having components that come in contact during their motion in ways that involve impact and/or friction. This study is focused mostly on dynamical systems that can be represented by a finite number of degrees-of-freedom. First, models consisting of oscillators are considered and the contact action is represented by a combination of discrete spring and damper elements or rigid constraints. These models may also involve clearances and effects from friction forces. Then, systems involving rigid or discretized deformable components are examined. Depending on the approach chosen, a contact event is modeled in either an algebraic or a differential manner. In the former, the concept of a restitution coefficient plays a dominant role. In the latter, the Darboux–Keller method is applied, which also requires a restitution coefficient but considers the dynamics during the contact phase by using the normal impulse component as an independent variable, in place of time. The same category of systems is also examined next, separately, by considering techniques of nonsmooth mechanics, which are more convenient to apply in several cases, like in modeling multiple contact events. Finally, some special recent techniques developed for Filippov systems and for systems involving impact and friction are presented. This study concludes by identifying and suggesting possible topics for future research.
Recent Developments in Solar and Low-Temperature Heat Sources Assisted Power and Cooling Systems: A Design Perspective
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Tareq , Mokheimer Esmail M. A.
Published: September 2019

Even though the renewable technologies are getting a gradually increasing share of the energy industry, the momentum of its growth is far away from outweighing the dominance of fossil fuel. Due to the concern for ozone depletion, global warming, and many more environmental hazards caused by fossil fuels, it is essential to substitute the conventional energy sources with renewables. Since this replacement cannot be done overnight, the conventional energy technologies should be integrated with renewables to minimize the pace of adverse effects on fossil fuel–based industries in the meantime. This way, the industries can be more efficient by utilizing waste heat, which accounts for 50% of the total energy generated now. This review paper outlines the role of solar energy in the generation of power and cooling systems that are capable of utilizing low-temperature heat sources below 400 °C. The review is primarily concentrated on line-focused concentrated solar power (CSP)-assisted solar technologies to be integrated with organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and absorption cooling systems. Photovoltaic and similar multigeneration systems are also discussed in brief.
MicroRNA-29a Involvement in Phenotypic Transformation of Venous Smooth Muscle Cells Via Ten–Eleven Translocation Methylcytosinedioxygenase 1 in Response to Mechanical Cyclic Stretch
Authors: Liu Ji-Ting , Liu Ze , Chen Yi , Qi Ying-Xin , Yao Qing-Ping , Jiang Zong-Lai
Published: September 2019

Mechanical stimuli play an important role in vein graft restenosis and the abnormal migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are pathological processes contributing to this disorder. Here, based on previous high-throughput sequencing data from vein grafts, miR-29a-3p and its target, the role of Ten–eleven translocation methylcytosinedioxygenase 1 (TET1) in phenotypic transformation of VSMCs induced by mechanical stretch was investigated. Vein grafts were generated by using the “cuff” technique in rats. Deep transcriptome sequencing revealed that the expression of TET1 was significantly decreased, a process confirmed by reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis. MicroRNA-seq showed that miR-29a-3p was significantly up-regulated, targeting TET1 as predicted by Targetscan. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the co-expressed genes with TET1 might modulate VSMC contraction. Venous VSMCs exposed to 10%–1.25 Hz cyclic stretch by using the Flexcell system were used to simulate arterial mechanical conditions in vitro. RT-qPCR revealed that mechanical stretch increased the expression of miR-29a-3p at 3 h. Western blot analysis showed that TET1 was significantly decreased, switching contractile VSMCs to cells with a synthetic phenotype. miR-29a-3p mimics (MI) and inhibitor (IN) transfection confirmed the negative impact of miR-29a-3p on TET1. Taken together, results from this investigation demonstrate that mechanical stretch modulates venous VSMC phenotypic transformation via the mediation of the miR-29a-3p/TET1 signaling pathway. miR-29a-3p may have potential clinical implications in the pathogenesis of remodeling of vein graft restenosis.