bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of let‐7b exerts beneficial effects on the functions of human placental trophoblasts by activating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Gao Yanyan , Zhang Xuefeng , Meng Tao
Published: September 2021

The present work aimed to explore let‐7b's molecular mechanisms that regulate the functions of placental trophoblasts and to examine placental let‐7b expression in human pre‐eclampsia (PE). Human trophoblast HTR‐8/SVneo cells underwent transduction with control and let‐7b overexpressing lentiviruses, respectively. Cell proliferation assessment utilized cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. Apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and ERK1/2 signaling‐associated proteins were assessed by immunoblot. Placental tissue samples were collected from women with normal pregnancy (n = 20) and PE patients (n = 14). Let‐7b overexpression in HTR‐8/SVneo cells remarkably induced cell proliferation and invasion, suppressed apoptosis and autophagy, and resulted in decreased tumor necrosis factorα (TNF‐α) expression and increased interleukin 6 (IL‐6) expression in trophoblasts. Notably, the beneficial effects of let‐7b overexpression, including cell invasion and EMT, were largely reversed by treatment with U0126, an indirect ERK1/2 signaling inhibitor, in these cells. TGF‐β receptor type‐1 (TGFBR1) overexpression weakened let‐7b's functions in ERK pathway activation and invasion in trophoblasts. Placental tissue specimens from PE cases demonstrated significantly lower let‐7b expression compared with normal controls. Overexpression of let‐7b exerts beneficial effects on the functions of human placental trophoblasts via ERK1/2 signaling, and placental let‐7b is downregulated in human PE. These findings suggest let‐7b is a promising biomarker for the prospective diagnosis and targeted therapy of PE.
Gadolinium‐free assessment of synovitis using diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Sandford Halston J. C. , MacKay James W. , Watkins Lauren E. , Gold Garry E. , Kogan Feliks , Mazzoli Valentina
Published: September 2021

The dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI parameter Ktrans can quantify the intensity of synovial inflammation (synovitis) in knees with osteoarthritis (OA), but requires the use of gadolinium‐based contrast agent (GBCA). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures the diffusion of water molecules with parameters mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA), and has been proposed as a method to detect synovial inflammation without the use of GBCA. The purpose of this study is to (1) determine the ability of DTI to quantify the intensity of synovitis in OA by comparing MD and FA with our imaging gold standard Ktrans within the synovium and (2) compare DTI and DCE‐MRI measures with the semi‐quantitative grading of OA severity with the Kellgren‐Lawrence (KL) and MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score (MOAKS) systems, in order to assess the relationship between synovitis intensity and OA severity.

Within the synovium, MD showed a significant positive correlation with Ktrans (r = 0.79, p < 0.001), while FA showed a significant negative correlation with Ktrans (r = −0.72, p = 0.0026). These results show that DTI is able to quantify the intensity of synovitis within the whole synovium without the use of exogenous contrast agent. Additionally, MD, FA, and Ktrans values did not vary significantly when knees were separated by KL grade (p = 0.15, p = 0.32, p = 0.41, respectively), while MD (r = 0.60, p = 0.018) and Ktrans (r = 0.62, p = 0.013) had a significant positive correlation and FA (r = −0.53, p = 0.043) had a negative correlation with MOAKS. These comparisons indicate that quantitative measures of the intensity of synovitis may provide information in addition to morphological assessment to evaluate OA severity. Using DTI to quantify the intensity of synovitis without GBCA may be helpful to facilitate a broader clinical assessment of the severity of OA.
High‐fat and high‐sodium diet induces metabolic dysfunction in the absence of obesity
Authors: Frieler Ryan A. , Vigil Thomas M. , Song Jianrui , Leung Christy , Lumeng Carey N. , Mortensen Richard M.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Excess dietary fat and sodium (NaCl) are both associated with obesity and metabolic dysfunction. In mice, high NaCl has been shown to block high‐fat (HF) diet–induced weight gain. Here, the impact of an HF/NaCl diet on metabolic function in the absence of obesity was investigated.

Methods

Wild‐type mice were administered chow, NaCl (4%), HF, and HF/NaCl diets. Metabolic analysis was performed by measuring fasted blood glucose and insulin levels and by glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test.

Results

After 10 weeks on diets, male and female mice on the HF diet gained weight, and HF/NaCl mice had significantly reduced weight gain similar to chow‐fed mice. In the absence of obesity, HF/NaCl mice had significantly elevated fasting blood glucose and impaired glucose control during glucose tolerance tests. Both NaCl and HF/NaCl mice had decreased pancreas and β‐cell mass. Administration of NaCl in drinking water did not protect mice from HF‐diet‐induced weight gain and obesity. Further analysis revealed that longer administration of HF/NaCl diets for 20 weeks resulted in significant weight gain and insulin resistance.

Conclusions

The data demonstrate that despite early inhibitory effects on fat deposition and weight gain, an HF/NaCl diet does not prevent the metabolic consequences of HF diet consumption.
Patterns of weight change in a weight gain prevention study for young adults
Authors: Hayes Jacqueline F. , Tate Deborah F. , Espeland Mark A. , LaRose Jessica Gokee , Gorin Amy A. , Lewis Cora E. , Jelalian Elissa , Bahnson Judy , Wing Rena R. ,   for the Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention (SNAP) Research Group
Published: September 2021

Objective

Recovery from weight regain is uncommon during weight loss treatment. This study examined whether participants in a weight gain prevention intervention similarly struggle to recover following weight gains and which factors predict transitions.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data from the Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention (SNAP), a randomized controlled trial comparing two weight gain prevention interventions with a control group. Young adults (n = 599; age 18‐35 years) were followed over 3 years. Markov models identified transition rates in going above and returning below baseline weight across follow‐up. Logistic regressions identified predictors of transitions.

Results

At each time point, approximately double the number of participants who transitioned from below to above baseline transitioned from above to below. The magnitude of weight changes from baseline and the number of weight loss strategies used predicted transitions from below to above and above to below baseline weight (with opposite relationships). Infrequent self‐weighing and lower dietary restraint predicted transitions below to above baseline weight. Treatment arm, demographics, calorie consumption, and physical activity generally did not predict transitions.

Conclusions

Young adults engaging in weight gain prevention struggle to lose gained weight. Alternative strategies are needed to address weight gains in weight gain prevention interventions.
Vaping and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage: All EVALI is not created equal
Authors: Hoekstra Nadia E. , Dannull Kimberly A. , Weinman Jason P. , Liptzin Deborah R. , Hinds Daniel M.
Published: September 2021

E‐cigarette, or vaping product, use associated lung injury (EVALI) refers to respiratory illness in patients with recent vaping and no signs of infection or underlying illness. EVALI can cause severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and death. A spectrum of diagnoses can fit the description of EVALI since it relies heavily on nonspecific, radiographic findings. We present a rare case of EVALI in which a patient with a history of vaping presented with acute hypoxemia and was diagnosed with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). The mechanism of injury of DAH due to vaping is unknown, and further research into the topic is required.
Early‐onset, fatal interstitial lung disease in STAT3 gain‐of‐function patients
Authors: Gothe Florian , Gehrig Jonathan , Rapp Christina K. , Knoflach Katrin , Reu‐Hofer Simone , Länger Florian , Schramm Dirk , Ley‐Zaporozhan Julia , Ehl Stephan , Schwerk Nicolaus , Faletti Laura , Griese Matthias
Published: September 2021

Gain‐of‐function variants in STAT3 are known to cause severe, multifaceted autoimmunity. Here we report three individuals with de‐novo STAT3 GOF alleles and early‐onset, severe interstitial lung disease manifesting during the first 3 years of life. Imaging and histology revealed different forms of interstitial pneumonia alongside fibrotic and cystic tissue destruction. Definitive diagnosis was established by postmortem whole exome sequencing and functional validation of two new STAT3 variants. Such lung‐predominant forms of STAT3 GOF disease expand the phenotypic spectrum of diseases associated with activating STAT3 variants and add to our understanding of this life‐threatening inborn error of immunity.
SL(5) Supersymmetry
Authors: Cederwall Martin
Published: September 2021

We consider supersymmetry in five dimensions, where the fermionic parameters are a 2‐form under . Supermultiplets are investigated using the pure spinor superfield formalism, and are found to be closely related to infinite‐dimensional extensions of the supersymmetry algebra: the Borcherds superalgebra , the tensor hierarchy algebra and the exceptional superalgebra E(5, 10). A theorem relating and E(5, 10) to all levels is given.
In Situ Crystalline AlN Passivation for Reduced RF Dispersion in Strained‐Channel AlN/GaN/AlN High‐Electron‐Mobility Transistors
Authors: Chaudhuri Reet , Hickman Austin , Singhal Jashan , Casamento Joseph , Xing Huili Grace , Jena Debdeep
Published: September 2021

The recent demonstration of  W mm−1output power at 94 GHz in AlN/GaN/AlN high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) has established AlN as a promising platform for millimeter‐wave electronics. The current state‐of‐art AlN HEMTs using ex situ‐deposited silicon nitride (SiN) passivation layers suffer from soft gain compression due to trapping of carriers by surface states. Reducing surface state dispersion in these devices is thus desired to access higher output powers. Herein, a potential solution using a novel in situ crystalline AlN passivation layer is provided. A thick, 30+ nm‐top AlN passivation layer moves the as‐grown surface away from the 2D electron gas (2DEG) channel and reduces its effect on the device. Through a series of metal‐polar AlN/GaN/AlN heterostructure growths, it is found that pseudomorphically strained 15 nm thin GaN channels are crucial to be able to grow thick AlN barriers without cracking. The fabricated recessed‐gate HEMTs on an optimized heterostructure with 50 nm AlN barrier layer and 15 nm GaN channel layer show reduction in dispersion down to compared with in current state‐of‐art ex situ SiN‐passivated HEMTs. These results demonstrate the efficacy of this unique in situ crystalline AlN passivation technique and should unlock higher mm‐wave powers in next‐generation AlN HEMTs.
Controls on propagation of the Indian monsoon onset in an idealised model
Authors: Recchia Lucy G. , Griffiths Stephen D. , Parker Douglas J.
Published: September 2021

The Indian monsoon is a seasonal large‐scale circulation system with complex dynamical and thermodynamic interactions. The physical processes are not fully understood. In particular, the mechanisms that control the propagation of the monsoon onset across the Indian continent, against the mid‐level wind field, are debated. The Indian monsoon is poorly represented in weather and climate models, with persistent systematic errors making it difficult to forecast the Indian monsoon accurately on subseasonal timescales. A two‐layer model based on moisture conservation with a parameterised flux representing convection is developed and used to investigate the competition between dry advection in the upper levels, the rate of moisture replenishment at low levels, and the rate of convection from the lower to the upper layers. In a fixed Eulerian frame, the system is initialised at an equilibrium representing pre‐onset (May) conditions. Then, changes in the rates of moist inflow and upper‐level advection are introduced, triggering a transition to a new equilibrium, which reflects the full monsoon state (July–September). The two‐layer model reproduces the Indian monsoon onset and its progression to the northwest, against an imposed 5 ms wind in the upper layer. Increasing the parameter representing moist inflow induces a monsoon onset, defined as a threshold of total column moisture, with clear progression from southeast toward northwest India. A lesser wind speed in the upper layer, signifying a weakening midtropospheric dry intrusion, allows more rapid progression of the monsoon onset. A greater upper‐level wind speed, associated with a strengthening dry intrusion, causes the monsoon onset to retreat. We can quantify the nature of the monsoon onset by deriving an onset speed and the time taken for the system to adjust to a new equilibrium, using analytical theory.
An arithmetic correction for the effect of lipid on carbon stable isotope ratios in muscle and digestive glands of the American lobster (Homarus americanus)
Authors: Fischer‐Rush Jonathan , Rochette Rémy , Paton Emily , Dickey Alexandrea , Hayden Brian
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Lipid correction models use elemental carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratios to estimate the effect of lipids on δ13C values and provide a fast and inexpensive alternative to chemically removing lipids. However, the performance of these models varies, especially in whole‐body invertebrate samples. The generation of tissue‐specific lipid correction models for American lobsters, both an ecologically and an economically important species in eastern North America, will aid ecological research of this species and our understanding of the function of these models in invertebrates.

Method

We determined the δ13C and δ15N values before and after lipid extraction in muscle and digestive glands of juvenile and adult lobster. We assessed the performance of four commonly used models (nonlinear, linear, natural logarithm (LN) and generalized linear model (GLM)) at estimating lipid‐free δ13C values based on the non‐lipid‐extracted δ13C values and elemental C:N ratios. The accuracy of model predictions was tested using paired t‐tests, and the performance of the different models was compared using the Akaike information criterion score.

Results

Lipid correction models accurately estimated post‐lipid‐extraction δ13C values in both tissues. The nonlinear model was the least accurate for both tissues. In muscle, the three other models performed well, and in digestive glands, the LN model provided the most accurate estimates throughout the range of C:N values. In both tissues, the GLM estimates were not independent of the post‐lipid‐extraction δ13C values, thus reducing their transferability to other datasets.

Conclusions

Whereas previous work found that whole‐body models poorly estimated the effect of lipids in invertebrates, we show that tissue‐specific lipid correction models can generate accurate and precise estimates of lipid‐free δ13C values in lobster. We suggest that the tissue‐specific logarithmic models presented here are the preferred models for accounting for the effect of lipid on lobster isotope ratios.
Intrathoracic myolipoma from parietal pleura with oestrogen and progesterone receptor
Authors: Teh Jyh Shinn , Weng Ching‐Yao , Chang Ying‐Yueh , Yeh Yi‐Chen , Huang Chien‐Sheng
Published: September 2021

Myolipoma is a rare benign lipomatous soft tissue neoplasm, occurring most frequently in adults in the abdomen, pelvis or retroperitoneum. We presented a case of a 39‐year‐old female with an epipleural lesion at the left paraspinal region identified using computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a fat‐containing lesion attached to the pleura over the left paraspinal region. Surgical resection was performed, and histopathological analysis revealed a tumour composed of interlacing bundles of neoplastic smooth muscle cells with low cellularity and rare mitotic figures intermixing with mature adipocytes. The presence of oestrogen and progesterone receptors in smooth muscle cells was noted. The mass was reported as myolipoma. To the best of our knowledge, this case is the first description of an intrathoracic myolipoma.
Surface and interface characterization of Ru/C/Ru trilayer structure using grazing incidence X‐ray reflectivity and X‐ray fluorescence
Authors: Kiranjot  , Dhawan Rajnish , Modi Mohammed Hussein
Published: September 2021

In 8‐ to 20‐keV photon energy region, ruthenium and carbon thin films are used in multilayer monochromators. In the present study, this material combination is explored for X‐ray waveguide applications in hard X‐ray region. The structural parameters (thickness of each layer) of Ru/C/Ru waveguide structure are optimized to get maximum intensity enhancement of fundamental mode inside carbon guiding layer. A sample with optimized structural parameters is deposited using ion beam sputtering (IBS) technique and characterized using X‐ray reflectivity (XRR) and grazing incidence X‐ray fluorescence (GIXRF) techniques. The analysis suggests that the density of bottom Ru layer and carbon guiding layer is close to bulk density (~97% for Ru and ~95% for carbon), whereas density of top Ru layer is slightly lower (~93% of bulk density). A ~10% of thickness variation in top cladding layer along with marginal change in layer density deteriorate field enhancement in TE0 mode by more than three times. Effect of thickness and density variation on waveguide (Ru [7 nm]/C [18 nm]/Ru [20 nm]) performance is discussed.
Four vignettes on interactions with Martin Seah: The impact of his work
Authors: Baer Donald R.
Published: September 2021

Four brief vignettes briefly describe ways that Dr. Martin Seah influenced my career and those of many others. These brief stories highlight aspects of his (i) career‐long contributions to the quantification and accuracy of surface analysis, (ii) ability to identify and willingness to fill information gaps and needs, (iii) significant efforts to communicate the nature of the challenges and what was known about best practices in an engaging and often humorous manner, and (iv) many delightful professional and social interactions that also contributed to community impact.
Robust method for optimal treatment decision making based on survival data
Authors: Fang Yuexin , Zhang Baqun , Zhang Min
Published: September 2021

Identifying the optimal treatment decision rule, where the best treatment for an individual varies according to his/her characteristics, is of great importance when treatment effect heterogeneity exists. We develop methods for estimating the optimal treatment decision rule based on data with survival time as the primary endpoint. Our methods are based on a flexible semiparametric accelerated failure time model, where only the treatment contrast (ie, the difference in means between treatments) is parameterized and all other aspects are unspecified. An individual's treatment contrast is firstly estimated robustly by an augmented inverse probability weighted estimator (AIPWE). Then the optimal decision rule is estimated by minimizing the loss between the treatment contrast and the AIPWE contrast. Two loss functions with different strategies to account for censoring are proposed. The proposed loss functions distinguish from existing ones in that they are based on treatment contrasts, which completely determine the optimal treatment rule. Our methods can further incorporate a penalty term to select variables that are only important for treatment decision making, while taking advantage of all covariates predictive of outcomes to improve performance. Comprehensive simulation studies have been conducted to evaluate performances of the proposed methods relative to existing methods. The proposed methods are illustrated with an application to the ACTG 175 clinical trial on HIV‐infected patients.
Emerging Zn Anode‐Based Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Zhang Wu , Li Haizeng , Yu William W. , Elezzabi Abdulhakem Y.
Published: September 2021

The development of electrochromic materials has opened the door to the development of numerous devices including smart windows, color displays, optical filters, wearable camouflages, among others. Although the current electrochromic devices do not consume energy while maintaining their colored or colorless states, their bistable operation requires external electrical energy to be consumed during switching. To reduce the energy consumption of an electrochromic device, an emerging Zn anode‐based electrochromic device concept was recently introduced to partially retrieve the consumed electrical energy. In this Review, key technological developments and scientific challenges are presented for a broad range of Zn anode‐based electrochromic device configurations with emphasis on the inherent distinctions between the Zn anode‐based and conventional electrochromic devices. Specifically, a comprehensive comparison of the two classes of electrochromic devices in the high‐performance device design is provided. For the electrochromic layer, the methods for obtaining high‐quality electrochromic materials and thin films are reviewed. For the electrolytes, the effect of the dual ion system on the electrochromic performance is discussed. Also, some critical but unresolved issues in the device design and fabrication are discussed. The perspectives and outlook at the end of this Review provide recommendations to improve performance for future electrochromic studies.
Microstructure and Corrosion Behavior of Functionally Graded Wire Arc Additive Manufactured Steel Combinations
Authors: Pütz René Daniel , Pratesa Yudha , Oster Lukas , Sharma Rahul , Reisgen Uwe , Zander Daniela
Published: September 2021

Functionally graded materials (FGM) have gained many interests for various applications and are designed to match special requirements in local properties (e.g., corrosion behavior), which highly determines the component's lifetime. The corrosion behavior is strongly dependent on the chemical composition and the microstructure of the designed materials. Therefore, two FGM combinations are designed using wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) with a linear changing material deposition from G 3Si1 to G 19 9L Si (combination 1) and G 18L Nb to G 19 9L Si (combination 2). The microstructure at different positions is analyzed using optical light microscopy (OLM), scanning electron microscopy with attached energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical corrosion behavior in 0.6 m NaCl solution is determined by cyclic potentiodynamic polarization (CPDP) including SEM imaging after CPDP to determine the pit size and morphology. The phase formation sequences of ferrite (α and δ), martensite, and types of austenite are discussed regarding the chemical gradient. The pitting corrosion resistance is enhanced for both combinations in direction to G 19 9L Si due to the increase in Cr and/or Ni, while the pit morphology changes in dependence of the presence of various microstructures.
An entrainment‐based model for annular wakes, with applications to airborne wind energy
Authors: Kaufman‐Martin Sam , Naclerio Nicholas , May Pedro , Luzzatto‐Fegiz Paolo
Published: September 2021

Several novel wind energy systems produce wakes with annular cross‐sections, which are qualitatively different from the wakes with circular cross‐sections commonly generated by conventional horizontal‐axis wind turbines and by compact obstacles. Since wind farms use arrays of hundreds of turbines, good analytical wake models are essential for efficient wind farm planning. Several models already exist for circular wakes; however, none have yet been proposed for annular wakes, making it impossible to estimate their array performance. We use the entrainment hypothesis to develop a reduced‐order model for the shape and flow velocity of an annular wake from a generic annular obstacle. Our model consists of a set of three ordinary differential equations, which we solve numerically. In addition, by assuming that the annular wake does not drift radially, we further reduce the problem to a model comprising only two differential equations, which we solve analytically. Both of our models are in good agreement with previously published large eddy simulation results.
White‐nose Syndrome and Environmental Correlates to Landscape‐Scale Bat Presence
Authors: Barr Elaine L. , Silvis Alexander , Armstrong Mike P. , Ford W. Mark
Published: September 2021

Over the past 13 years, White‐nose Syndrome (WNS) has caused North American bat population declines and shifted community structure towards species less or unaffected by the disease. Mist‐netting, acoustic surveys, and cave count data have been used to document changes in bat presence and activity through site‐specific, pre‐ and post‐WNS studies. Management and survey guidance often must be applied at a combined landscape and site‐specific scale. Our objective was to explore the relationships among WNS impact, influence of available hibernacula, and environmental factors for the nightly presence of 3 WNS‐affected bats: the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), northern long‐eared bat (M. septentrionalis), and big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus). We used recordings from 10 acoustic monitoring study areas, each with 3 survey locations across the states of Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky to assess changes in nightly bat presence during the summer of 2017. There were significant positive and negative correlates of broad land‐cover categories for presence of all 3 bat species. Our findings also corroborated trends in abundance and distribution patterns found in prior, smaller‐scale studies, supporting the relevance of land cover categories in a large‐scale acoustic monitoring framework. We observed a negative association between WNS impact‐years and nightly northern long‐eared bat presence, but low occurrence and patchy distribution reduced our ability to infer strong relationships. Big brown bat presence showed a significant positive relationship with WNS occurrence on the landscape, providing evidence that big brown bats are maintaining populations after years of exposure. Indiana bats were the least‐documented species, limiting the strength of our conclusions, but we did observe significant temporal patterns in nightly presence, with higher probabilities of presence earlier in the summer. Our results show the potential efficacy of using a WNS impact metric to predict summer bat presence, inform current U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service acoustic monitoring guidelines, and highlight which environmental variables are relevant for large‐scale acoustic monitoring. © 2021 The Wildlife Society. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
An analysis of Bayesian estimates for missing higher orders in perturbative calculations
Authors: Duhr Claude , Huss Alexander , Mazeliauskas Aleksas , Szafron Robert
Published: September 2021

Abstract

With current high precision collider data, the reliable estimation of theoretical uncertainties due to missing higher orders (MHOs) in perturbation theory has become a pressing issue for collider phenomenology. Traditionally, the size of the MHOs is estimated through scale variation, a simple but ad hoc method without probabilistic interpretation. Bayesian approaches provide a compelling alternative to estimate the size of the MHOs, but it is not clear how to interpret the perturbative scales, like the factorisation and renormalisation scales, in a Bayesian framework. Recently, it was proposed that the scales can be incorporated as hidden parameters into a Bayesian model. In this paper, we thoroughly scrutinise Bayesian approaches to MHO estimation and systematically study the performance of different models on an extensive set of high-order calculations. We extend the framework in two significant ways. First, we define a new model that allows for asymmetric probability distributions. Second, we introduce a prescription to incorporate information on perturbative scales without interpreting them as hidden model parameters. We clarify how the two scale prescriptions bias the result towards specific scale choice, and we discuss and compare different Bayesian MHO estimates among themselves and to the traditional scale variation approach. Finally, we provide a practical prescription of how existing perturbative results at the standard scale variation points can be converted to 68%/95% credibility intervals in the Bayesian approach using the new public code MiHO.
Smooth bubbling geometries without supersymmetry
Authors: Bah Ibrahima , Heidmann Pierre
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We construct the first smooth bubbling geometries using the Weyl formalism. The solutions are obtained from Einstein theory coupled to a two-form gauge field in six dimensions with two compact directions. We classify the charged Weyl solutions in this framework. Smooth solutions consist of a chain of Kaluza-Klein bubbles that can be neutral or wrapped by electromagnetic fluxes, and are free of curvature and conical singularities. We discuss how such topological structures are prevented from gravitational collapse without struts. When embedded in type IIB, the class of solutions describes D1-D5-KKm solutions in the non-BPS regime, and the smooth bubbling solutions have the same conserved charges as a static four-dimensional non-extremal Cvetic-Youm black hole.
A simple description of holographic domain walls in confining theories — extended hydrodynamics
Authors: Janik Romuald A. , Järvinen Matti , Sonnenschein Jacob
Published: September 2021

Abstract

In the context of theories with a first order phase transition, we propose a general covariant description of coexisting phases separated by domain walls using an additional order parameter-like degree of freedom. In the case of a holographic Witten model with a confining and deconfined phase, the resulting model extends hydrodynamics and has a simple formulation in terms of a spacetime action with corresponding expressions for the energy-momentum tensor. The proposed description leads to simple analytic profiles of domain walls, including expressions for surface tension density, which agree nicely with holographic numerical solutions, despite the apparent complexity of those gravitational backgrounds.
Positive magnetoresistance induced by hydrodynamic fluctuations in chiral media
Authors: Sogabe Noriyuki , Yamamoto Naoki , Yin Yi
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We analyze the combined effects of hydrodynamic fluctuations and chiral magnetic effect (CME) for a chiral medium in the presence of a background magnetic field. Based on the recently developed non-equilibrium effective field theory, we show fluctuations give rise to a CME-related positive contribution to magnetoresistance, while the early studies without accounting for the fluctuations find a CME-related negative magnetoresistance. At zero axial relaxation rate, the fluctuations contribute to the transverse conductivity in addition to the longitudinal one.
Identification of Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injury from Intravenous Ketorolac in Geriatric Trauma Patients
Authors: Hall Scott T. , Mangram Alicia J. , Barletta Jeffrey F.
Published: September 2021

Background

Ketorolac is an effective analgesic but the potential for acute kidney injury (AKI) is concerning, particularly in geriatric “G‐60 trauma” patients. The objectives of this study are to report the incidence of AKI in patients who receive ketorolac, identify risk factors for AKI, and develop a risk factor‐guided algorithm for safe utilization.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included trauma patients age 60 years and older who received intravenous ketorolac. The primary endpoint was the incidence of AKI.

Results

Among 316 patients evaluated, the incidence of AKI was 2.5%. Patients with AKI received more nephrotoxins, had more comorbidities, and higher use of loop diuretics or vasopressors. Loop diuretic therapy and number of comorbidities were independent predictors of AKI.

Conclusions

Risk for AKI with ketorolac was low, being more prevalent with comorbidities or receipt of loop diuretics.
Quantification of pulmonary perfusion abnormalities using DCE-MRI in COPD: comparison with quantitative CT and pulmonary function
Authors: Schiwek Marilisa , Triphan Simon M. F. , Biederer Jürgen , Weinheimer Oliver , Eichinger Monika , Vogelmeier Claus F. , Jörres Rudolf A. , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Heußel Claus P. , Konietzke Philip , von Stackelberg Oyunbileg , Risse Frank , Jobst Bertram J. , Wielpütz Mark O. ,   on behalf of the COSYCONET study group
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Pulmonary perfusion abnormalities are prevalent in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are potentially reversible, and may be associated with emphysema development. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the clinical meaningfulness of perfusion defects in percent (QDP) using DCE-MRI.

Methods

We investigated a subset of baseline DCE-MRIs, paired inspiratory/expiratory CTs, and pulmonary function testing (PFT) of 83 subjects (age = 65.7 ± 9.0 years, patients-at-risk, and all GOLD groups) from one center of the “COSYCONET” COPD cohort. QDP was computed from DCE-MRI using an in-house developed quantification pipeline, including four different approaches: Otsu’s method, k-means clustering, texture analysis, and 80th percentile threshold. QDP was compared with visual MRI perfusion scoring, CT parametric response mapping (PRM) indices of emphysema (PRMEmph) and functional small airway disease (PRMfSAD), and FEV1/FVC from PFT.

Results

All QDP approaches showed high correlations with the MRI perfusion score (r = 0.67 to 0.72, p < 0.001), with the highest association based on Otsu’s method (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). QDP correlated significantly with all PRM indices (p < 0.001), with the strongest correlations with PRMEmph (r = 0.70 to 0.75, p < 0.001). QDP was distinctly higher than PRMEmph (mean difference = 35.85 to 40.40) and PRMfSAD (mean difference = 15.12 to 19.68), but in close agreement when combining both PRM indices (mean difference = 1.47 to 6.03) for all QDP approaches. QDP correlated moderately with FEV1/FVC (r = − 0.54 to − 0.41, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

QDP is associated with established markers of disease severity and the extent corresponds to the CT-derived combined extent of PRMEmph and PRMfSAD. We propose to use QDP based on Otsu’s method for future clinical studies in COPD.

Key Points

• QDP quantified from DCE-MRI is associated with visual MRI perfusion score, CT PRM indices, and PFT.

• The extent of QDP from DCE-MRI corresponds to the combined extent of PRMEmph and PRMfSAD from CT.

• Assessing pulmonary perfusion abnormalities using DCE-MRI with QDP improved the correlations with CT PRM indices and PFT compared to the quantification of pulmonary blood flow and volume.
Stability conditions for impulsive dynamical systems
Authors: Dashkovskiy Sergey , Slynko Vitalii
Published: September 2021

In this work, we consider impulsive dynamical systems evolving on an infinite-dimensional space and subjected to external perturbations. We look for stability conditions that guarantee the input-to-state stability for such systems. Our new dwell-time conditions allow the situation, where both continuous and discrete dynamics can be unstable simultaneously. Lyapunov like methods are developed for this purpose. Illustrative finite and infinite dimensional examples are provided to demonstrate the application of the main results. These examples cannot be treated by any other published approach and demonstrate the effectiveness of our results.
External snapping hip syndrome is associated with an increased femoral offset
Authors: Andronic Octavian , Rahm Stefan , Fritz Benjamin , Singh Sarvpreet , Sutter Reto , Zingg Patrick O.
Published: September 2021

Background

External snapping hip syndrome (ESH) is postulated to be one of the causes of greater trochanteric pain syndrome, which also includes greater trochanteric bursitis and tendinopathy or tears of the hip abductor mechanism. However, it was not yet described what kind of bony morphology can cause the snapping and whether symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals have different imaging features.

Purpose

It was the purpose of this study to look for predisposing morphological factors for ESH and to differentiate between painful and asymptomatic snapping.

Methods

A consecutive cohort with ESH and available magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between 2014 and 2019 was identified. The control group consisted of patients that underwent corrective osteotomies around the knee for mechanical axis correction and never complained of hip symptoms nor had undergone previous hip procedures. The following parameters were blindly assessed for determination of risk factors for ESH: CCD (corpus collum diaphysis) angle; femoral and global offset; femoral antetorsion; functional femoral antetorsion; translation of the greater trochanter (GT); posterior tilt of the GT; pelvic width/anterior pelvic length; intertrochanteric width. Hip and pelvic offset indexes were calculated as ratios of femoral/global offset and intertrochanteric/pelvic width, respectively. For the comparison of symptomatic and asymptomatic snapping, the following soft-tissue signs were investigated: presence of trochanteric bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy; presence of surface bony irregularities on trochanter major and ITB (Iliotibial band) thickness.

Results

A total of 31 hips with ESH were identified. The control group (n = 29) consisted of patients matched on both age (± 1) and gender. Multiple regression analysis determined an increased hip offset index to be independent predictor of ESH (r =  + 0.283, p = 0.025), most likely due to the higher femoral offset in the ESH group (p = 0.031). Pearson correlation analysis could not identify any significant secondary factors. No differences were found between painful and asymptomatic snapping on MRI.

Conclusions

A high hip offset index was found as an independent predictor for external snapping hip in our cohort, mainly due to increased femoral offset. No imaging soft-tissue related differences could be outlined between symptomatic and asymptomatic external snapping.

Level of evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors  www.springer.com/00590.
An infinite-dimensional 2-generated primitive axial algebra of Monster type
Authors: Franchi Clara , Mainardis Mario , Shpectorov Sergey
Published: September 2021

Rehren proved in Axial algebras. Ph.D. thesis, University of Birmingham (2015), Trans Am Math Soc 369:6953–6986 (2017) that a primitive 2-generated axial algebra of Monster type $$(\alpha ,\beta )$$

(
α
,
β
)

, over a field of characteristic other than 2, has dimension at most 8 if $$\alpha \notin \{2\beta ,4\beta \}$$

α
∉
{
2
β
,
4
β
}

. In this note, we show that Rehren’s bound does not hold in the case $$\alpha =4\beta $$

α
=
4
β

by providing an example (essentially the unique one) of an infinite-dimensional 2-generated primitive axial algebra of Monster type $$(2,\frac{1}{2})$$

(
2
,

1
2

)

over an arbitrary field $${{\mathbb {F}}}$$
F
of characteristic other than 2 and 3. We further determine its group of automorphisms and describe some of its relevant features.
Arguments based on biocultural diversity to cease abandonment of traditional agricultural systems: Lessons from Poland
Authors: Prus Barbara , Uruszczak Michał , Hernik Józef
Published: September 2021

The Polish rural cultural landscape is inherently linked to a special, centuries-old system that combines agricultural tradition and biodiversity. One of such environmentally, ecologically, agriculturally, historically, and culturally unique areas is the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland. Home to small agricultural holdings, this diversified mosaic is where agricultural, husbandry, craft, and local industry experience is handed down the generational chain. Developmental changes and progress are becoming the gravest threats to the area. The purpose of the paper is to assess traditional agricultural systems in the Lesser Poland part of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland considering landscape features, agricultural biodiversity, food and livelihood security, traditional local knowledge systems, cultural values—in particular, systems of values—and social organisations that promote them. The research shows that biodiversity is entwined with cultural diversity. The vanishing of agricultural systems due to changed socio-economic conditions and environmental overprotection is a serious threat to the biological and cultural diversity in the upland. The authors employed a SWOT analysis—a tool that can investigate interactions and determine the best development strategy—to identify relationships between cultural and biological diversity.
Signal Enhancement in Surface Crack Detection with Gas-Coupled Laser Acoustic Detection
Authors: Vangi Dario , Bruzzi Mara , Caron James N. , Gulino Michelangelo S.
Published: September 2021

Ultrasonic signal enhancement resulting from constructive interference between direct Rayleigh waves and same waves reflected by a surface defect is exploited to increase crack identification capabilities of the Gas-Coupled Laser Acoustic Detection (GCLAD) non-contact detection technology. Highlights from simulations are provided regarding the interference phenomenon in the solid and its propagation in air, where GCLAD detection occurs. Experimental campaigns are preliminarily performed on a bar to evidence the effect of cracks on the GCLAD acquired signals. Then, a signal enhancement of +30% is reached on a plate, implying that defects are efficiently scanned by moving the GCLAD in proximity of the discontinuity. Since the GCLAD allows monitoring points of a piece belonging to the same line at once, its translation in one direction is sufficient to perform a two-dimensional scan, entailing reduction of inspection time and simple automation of the interrogation layout compared to other traditional or signal enhancement-based techniques.
Fostering pre-service teachers’ theoretical knowledge application: studying with and without text-based cases
Authors: Baier Franziska , Maurer Christina , Dignath Charlotte , Kunter Mareike
Published: September 2021

As knowledge derived from scientific theory can be helpful for teachers to reflect on their everyday teaching, universities have the challenging task of teaching this knowledge in such a way that pre-service teachers are able to apply it to their later teaching. Case-based learning has emerged as a promising method to foster pre-service teachers’ scientific knowledge application throughout university teacher education. However, surprisingly, empirical evidence for its effectiveness as compared to more traditional instructional interventions in teacher education is still inconclusive, partly being due to constraints concerning the employed comparison groups. The present quasi-experimental study (conducted in the field of classroom management) investigated the effect of studying exactly the same theoretical content with and without text-based cases on scientific knowledge application (as measured by a vignette test) in a sample of 101 pre-service teachers. Although the study found a small advantage for the case-based learning group, it demonstrated that scientific knowledge application may also be effectively fostered in a more traditional instructional course. The findings and their implications are discussed against the background of cognitive theories on inert knowledge and how to prevent it in teacher education.
Dolbeault and J-Invariant Cohomologies on Almost Complex Manifolds
Authors: Sillari Lorenzo , Tomassini Adriano
Published: September 2021

In this paper we relate the cohomology ofJ-invariant forms to the Dolbeault cohomology of an almost complex manifold. We find necessary and sufficient condition for the inclusion of the former into the latter to be true up to isomorphism. We also extend some results obtained by J. Cirici and S. O. Wilson about the computation of the left-invariant cohomology of nilmanifolds to the setting of solvmanifolds. Several examples are given.
TERT Copy Number Alterations, Promoter Mutations and Rearrangements in Adrenocortical Carcinomas
Authors: Gupta Sounak , Won Helen , Chadalavada Kalyani , Nanjangud Gouri J. , Chen Ying-Bei , Al-Ahmadie Hikmat A. , Fine Samson W. , Sirintrapun Sahussapont J. , Strong Vivian E. , Raj Nitya , Lagunes Diane Reidy , Vanderbilt Chad M. , Berger Michael F. , Ladanyi Marc , Dogan Snjezana , Tickoo Satish K. , Reuter Victor E. , Gopalan Anuradha
Published: September 2021

Molecular characterization of adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) has highlighted a high prevalence of TERT alterations, which are associated with disease progression. Herein, 78 ACC were profiled using a combination of next generation sequencing (n = 76) and FISH (n = 9) to assess for TERT alterations. This data was combined with TCGA dataset (n = 91). A subset of borderline adrenocortical tumors (n = 5) and adrenocortical adenomas (n = 7) were also evaluated. The most common alteration involving the TERT gene involved gains/amplifications, seen in 22.2% (37/167) of cases. In contrast, “hotspot” promoter mutations (C > T promoter mutation at position -124, 7/167 cases, 4.2%) and promoter rearrangements (2/165, 1.2%) were rare. Recurrent co-alterations included 22q copy number losses seen in 24% (9/38) of cases. Although no significant differences were identified in cases with and without TERT alterations pertaining to age at presentation, tumor size, weight, laterality, mitotic index and Ki67 labeling, cases with TERT alterations showed worse outcomes. Metastatic behavior was seen in 70% (28/40) of cases with TERT alterations compared to 51.2% (65/127, p = 0.04) of cases that lacked these alterations. Two (of 5) borderline tumors showed amplifications and no TERT alterations were identified in 7 adenomas. In the borderline group, 0 (of 4) patients with available follow up had adverse outcomes. We found that TERT alterations in ACC predominantly involve gene amplifications, with a smaller subset harboring “hotspot” promoter mutations and rearrangements, and 70% of TERT-altered tumors are associated with metastases. Prospective studies are needed to validate the prognostic impact of these findings.
Media Representations of Lesbians, Gay Men, and Bisexuals on Dutch Television and People’s Stereotypes and Attitudes About LGBs
Authors: van Meer Megan May , Pollmann Monique Maria Henriette
Published: September 2021

This study investigates stereotypical portrayals of lesbians, gays, and bisexuals (LGBs) on Dutch television and whether these portrayals relate to people’s attitudes towards LGBs. Previous research shows that television programs in the U.S. contain many stereotypical portrayals of LGBs. These portrayals are both negatively and positively related to people’s attitude towards LGBs. Because the Dutch culture is relatively accepting of LGBs it is interesting to see if they are portrayed differently than in the U.S. A content analysis showed that there are stereotypical representations on Dutch television but there are also people who ‘just happen to be gay’. A survey among 272 participants showed that people who more frequently watch programs with stereotypical portrayals of LGBs do not have a more positive or negative attitude than people who do not. A mediation analysis showed that people who watch more television in general have a more stereotypical view of gay men, which is related to more negative attitudes towards LGBs.