bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS‐CoV2 (COVID‐19) infection: is fetal surgery in times of national disasters reasonable?
Authors: Deprest Jan , Van Ranst Marc , Lannoo Lore , Bredaki Emma , Ryan Greg , David Anna , Richter Jute , Van Mieghem Tim
Published: April 2020

Even though the global COVID‐19 pandemic may affect how medical care is delivered in general, most countries try to maintain steady access for women to routine pregnancy care, including fetal anomaly screening. This means that, also during this pandemic, fetal anomalies will be detected, and that discussions regarding invasive genetic testing and possibly fetal therapy will need to take place. For patients, concerns about Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome‐Corona Virus 2 will add to the anxiety caused by the diagnosis of a serious fetal anomaly. Yet, also for fetal medicine teams the situation gets more complex as they must weigh up the risks and benefits to the fetus as well as the mother, while managing a changing evidence base and logistic challenges in their healthcare system.
Fabrication and characterization of a wound dressing composed of polyvinyl alcohol/nanochitosan/Artemisia ciniformis extract: An RSM study
Authors: Baniasadi Mona , Baniasadi Hossein , Azimi Razieh , Khosravi Dehaghi Nafiseh
Published: April 2020

This study reported the fabrication and characterization of an electrospun wound dressing composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), nanochitosan (NC), and Artemisia ciniformis extract (AE). NC and AE wt% were defined as process parameters, and their effects on the diameter, mechanical properties, and cell attachment of the fibers were investigated using the Design Expert 7.0 software. The software provided quadratic equations, which were investigated statistically and graphically, confirmed that with the increase in the NC portion in the samples, the mechanical strength and fiber diameter increased. The increase is probably due to the proper dispersion of nanoparticle into a PVA matrix and the increased viscosity of the solution; however, cell viability showed an increasing/decreasing trend. The presence of AE lowered the mechanical properties of the samples while positively affecting cell viability. Furthermore, the samples had significant antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli as Gram‐negative bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus as Gram‐positive one, a notable property for wound dressings. Overall, our findings showed that PVA/NC/AE has an excellent potential for use in biomedical fields, particularly as a wound dressing.
Total synthesis of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor and the protein diastereomer [Gly37D‐Ala]BPTI using Boc chemistry solid phase peptide synthesis
Authors: Donovan Alexander J. , Dowle Joanna , Yang Yanwu , Weiss Michael A. , Kent Stephen B. H.
Published: April 2020

Bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (BPTI) is a well‐studied model for investigation of protein folding and stability. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of wild‐type BPTI and a diastereomeric protein analogue [Gly37D‐Ala]BPTI. Each 58‐residue polypeptide chain was made by native chemical ligation of two peptide segments, BPTI[1‐29]‐αthioester and the appropriate version of the Cys30‐58 BPTI peptide segment. Boc chemistry in situ neutralization solid phase synthesis was used to prepare the peptide segment reactants. The resulting full‐length polypeptide chains were folded in a cysteine/cystine redox buffer to give synthetic protein molecules containing three disulfide bonds. The diastereomeric analogue [Gly37D‐Ala]BPTI folded as efficiently as the native protein. Synthetic proteins were characterized by analytical LCMS and by natural‐abundance 1H‐15N HSQC NMR fingerprinting. These results illustrate the power of Boc chemistry peptide synthesis and its utility for the total chemical synthesis of protein molecules.
Atg3 promotes Atg8 lipidation via altering lipid diffusion and rearrangement
Authors: Wang Shen , Li Yun , Ma Cong
Published: April 2020

Atg3‐catalyzed transferring of Atg8 to phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) in the phagophore membrane is essential for autophagy. Previous studies have demonstrated that this process requires Atg3 to interact with the phagophore membrane via its N‐terminal amphipathic helix. In this study, by using combined biochemical and biophysical approaches, our data showed that in addition to binding to the membranes, Atg3 attenuates lipid diffusion and enriches lipid molecules with smaller headgroup. Our data suggest that Atg3 promotes Atg8 lipidation via altering lipid diffusion and rearrangement.
Many‐body response of benzene at monolayer MoS2: Van der Waals interactions and spectral broadening
Authors: Umerbekova Alina , Pavanello Michele
Published: April 2020

Models of surface enhancement of molecular electronic response properties are challenging for two reasons: (a) molecule‐surface interactions require a simultaneous solution of the molecular and the surface dynamic response (a daunting task), and (b) when solving for the electronic structure of the combined molecule + surface system, it is not trivial to single out the particular physical effects responsible for enhancement. To tackle this problem, in this work, we apply a formally exact decomposition of the system's response function into subsystem contributions by using subsystem density functional theory (DFT), which grants access to dynamic polarizabilities and optical spectra. In order to access information about the interactions between the subsystems, we extend a previously developed subsystem‐based adiabatic connection fluctuation‐dissipation theorem of DFT to separate the additive from the nonadditive correlation energy and identify the nonadditive correlation as the van der Waals interactions. As an example, we choose benzene adsorbed on monolayer MoS2. We isolate the contributions to benzene's dynamic response arising from the interaction with the surface, and for the first time, we evaluate the enhancements to the effectiveness of C6 coefficients as a function of benzene‐MoS2 distance and adsorption site. We also quantify the spectral broadening of the benzene's electronic excited states due to their interaction with the surface. We find that the broadening has a similar decay law with the molecule‐surface distance as the leading van der Waals interactions (ie,
R−6) and that the surface enhancement of dispersion interactions between benzene molecules is less than 5% but is still large enough (0.5 kcal/mol) to likely play a role in the prediction of interface morphologies.
Liquid‐Like Phases Preorder Peptides for Supramolecular Assembly
Authors: Rengifo Rolando F. , Sementilli Anthony , Kim Youngsun , Liang Chen , Li Noel Xiang'An , Mehta Anil K. , Lynn David G.
Published: April 2020

Controlling supramolecular assembly remains a major challenge for materials science and synthetic biology. Biopolymers organize into multimolecular architectures via two‐step nucleation processes involving dynamic intermediate solute‐rich phases. Here we present spectroscopic analyses of metastable phases formed with a congener of the Alzheimer's disease Aβ peptide that reveals diverse populations of single β‐sheets. The degree of order in this liquid‐like particle phase is remarkable both in the range of sheets and the selection of a single propagating nucleus. The resulting fibril seed is less stable in solution and cooperatively transforms into another fibril. The conformational dynamics of this peptide provide a mechanistic model for controlling the range of polymorphic amyloid assemblies in health and disease.
An infrageneric classification of Thesium (Santalaceae) based on molecular phylogenetic data
Authors: Zhigila Daniel A. , Verboom G. Anthony , Muasya A. Muthama
Published: April 2020

Recent phylogenetic hypotheses reveal that Thesium (Santalaceae) is paraphyletic with respect to Austroamericium, Chrysothesium, Kunkeliella and Thesidium, suggesting the need for generic realignment. In addition, existing subgeneric and sectional classifications of this large genus lack a phylogenetic basis, thus compromising their predictive value. Using an expanded taxon sampling and a combination of nuclear (ITS) and chloroplast (matK, rpl32‐trnL, trnL‐F) DNA sequence data, we therefore re‐assessed the phylogenetic relationships of Thesium and used these as the basis of a new subgeneric classification of the genus. Our phylogeny confirms the need to sink the four segregate genera to render Thesium monophyletic. In addition, it resolves five well‐supported major clades within Thesium that we recognize as subgenera. Within Thesium, the South African endemic subgenus Hagnothesium is sister to the Eurasian subgenus Thesium (including Kunkeliella and Mauritanica). The subgenus Psilothesium, occurring in tropical South America (formerly genus Austroamericium) and tropical Africa, is sister to the rest of the subgenera, which are all confined to South Africa. Within the latter, the subgenus Discothesium consists of subtropical and temperate species, whereas subgenus Frisea, comprising the previously recognized sections Annulata, Barbata, Frisea, Imberbia and Penicillata, is entirely of the Greater Cape Floristic Region. To facilitate identification of subgenera, we identify morphological ancestral characters and present an identification key, brief diagnoses, species assigned, distribution and ecological data.
Variance heterogeneity genome‐wide mapping for cadmium in bread wheat reveals novel genomic loci and epistatic interactions
Authors: Hussain Waseem , Campbell Malachy T. , Jarquin Diego , Walia Harkamal , Morota Gota
Published: April 2020

Genome‐wide association mapping identifies quantitative trait loci (QTL) that influence the mean differences between the marker genotypes for a given trait. While most loci influence the mean value of a trait, certain loci, known as variance heterogeneity QTL (vQTL) determine the variability of the trait instead of the mean trait value (mQTL). In the present study, we performed a variance heterogeneity genome‐wide association study (vGWAS) for grain cadmium (Cd) concentration in bread wheat. We used double generalized linear model and hierarchical generalized linear model to identify vQTL associated with grain Cd. We identified novel vQTL regions on chromosomes 2A and 2B that contribute to the Cd variation and loci that affect both mean and variance heterogeneity (mvQTL) on chromosome 5A. In addition, our results demonstrated the presence of epistatic interactions between vQTL and mvQTL, which could explain variance heterogeneity. Overall, we provide novel insights into the genetic architecture of grain Cd concentration and report the first application of vGWAS in wheat. Moreover, our findings indicated that epistasis is an important mechanism underlying natural variation for grain Cd concentration.
Four genetic loci control compact plant size with yellow pear‐shaped fruit in ornamental tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Safaei Meysam , Olfati Jamal‐Ali , Hamidoghli Yousef , Rabiei Babak , Yamamoto Eiji , Shirasawa Kenta
Published: April 2020

Tomato is an attractive fruiting vegetable crop that can be used as an ornamental plant. Agronomical traits have been subjected to extensive genetic dissection to enhance vegetable breeding programs. By contrast, there are few genetic studies of ornamental traits for the development of ornamental tomato varieties. To investigate genetic loci linked to desired ornamental traits, we performed genetic analyses using an intraspecific mapping population that segregated for fruit color (yellow or red), fruit shape (round or pear), and plant height (high or compact). A genetic map was constructed with 965 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 33 simple sequence repeat markers. Subsequent linkage analysis using quantitative locus analysis and genome‐wide association study detected four genetic loci for the three selected traits, all of which were located near the reported genes. We performed KASP—kompetitive allele‐specific PCR—to develop SNP markers that were tightly linked to the four loci. Highly accurate genotyping data were obtained from the four SNPs across 187 F2 plants, which enabled us to select two lines with homozygous alleles for compact plant size and yellow pear‐shaped fruits. These newly developed SNP markers and genetic strategies could be used to accelerate breeding programs for ornamental tomato plants.
One-loop amplitudes in AdS5×S5 supergravity from $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM at strong coupling
Authors: Aprile F. , Drummond J.M. , Heslop P. , Paul H.
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We explore the structure of maximally supersymmetric Yang-Mills correlators in the supergravity regime. We develop an algorithm to construct one-loop supergravity amplitudes of four arbitrary Kaluza-Klein supergravity states, properly dualised into single- particle operators. We illustrate this algorithm by constructing new explicit results for multi-channel correlation functions, and we show that correlators which are degenerate at tree level become distinguishable at one-loop. The algorithm contains a number of subtle features which have not appeared until now. In particular, we address the presence of non- trivial low twist protected operators in the OPE that are crucial for obtaining the correct one-loop results. Finally, we outline how the differential operators

$$ {\hat{D}}_{pqrs} $$

D
̂

pqrs

and ∆(8), which play a role in the context of the hidden 10d conformal symmetry at tree level, can be used to reorganise our one-loop correlators.
Absence of D4R4 in M-theory from ABJM
Authors: Binder Damon J. , Chester Shai M. , Pufu Silviu S.
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Supersymmetry allows a D
4
R
4 interaction in M-theory, but such an interaction is inconsistent with string theory dualities and so is known to be absent. We provide a novel proof of the absence of the D
4
R
4 M-theory interaction by calculating 4-point scattering amplitudes of 11d supergravitons from ABJM theory. This calculation extends a previous calculation performed to the order corresponding to the R
4 interaction. The new ingre- dient in this extension is the interpretation of the fourth derivative of the mass deformed S
3 partition function of ABJM theory, which can be determined using supersymmetric localization, as a constraint on the Mellin amplitude associated with the stress tensor mul- tiplet 4-point function. As part of this computation, we relate the 4-point function of the superconformal primary of the stress tensor multiplet of any 3d

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 8 SCFT to some of the 4-point functions of its superconformal descendants. We also provide a concise formula for a general integrated 4-point function on S

d
for any d.
Holographic spontaneous anisotropy
Authors: Hoyos Carlos , Jokela Niko , Penín José Manuel , Ramallo Alfonso V.
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We construct a family of holographic duals to anisotropic states in a strongly coupled gauge theory. On the field theory side the anisotropy is generated by giving a vacuum expectation value to a dimension three operator. We obtain our gravity duals by considering the geometry corresponding to the intersection of D3- and D5- branes along 2+1 dimensions. Our backgrounds are supersymmetric and solve the fully backreacted equations of motion of ten-dimensional supergravity with smeared D5-brane sources. In all cases the geometry flows to AdS
5
× 𝕊5 in the UV, signaling an isotropic UV fixed point of the dual field theory. In the IR, depending on the parameters of the solution, we find two possible behaviors: an isotropic fixed point or a geometry with anisotropic Lifshitz-like scaling symmetry. We study several properties of the solutions, including the entanglement entropy of strips. We show that any natural extension of existing c-functions will display non-monotonic behavior, conforming with the presence of new degrees of freedom only at intermediate regions between the boundary and the origin of the holographic dual.
Finitary shadows of compact subgroups of $$S(\omega )$$
Authors: Majcher-Iwanow B.
Published: April 2020

Let LF be the lattice of all subgroups of the group $$SF(\omega )$$SF(ω) of all finitary permutations of the set of natural numbers. We consider subgroups of $$SF(\omega )$$SF(ω) of the form $$C\cap SF(\omega )$$C∩SF(ω), where C is a compact subgroup of the group of all permutations. In particular, we study their distribution among elements of LF. We measure this using natural relations of orthogonality and almost containedness. We also study complexity of the corresponding families of compact subgroups of $$S(\omega )$$S(ω).
A note on the periodic $$L_2$$-discrepancy of Korobov’s p-sets
Authors: Dick Josef , Hinrichs Aicke , Pillichshammer Friedrich
Published: April 2020

We study the periodic $$L_2$$L2-discrepancy of point sets in the d-dimensional torus. This discrepancy is intimately connected with the root-mean-square $$L_2$$L2-discrepancy of shifted point sets, with the notion of diaphony, and with the worst-case error of cubature formulas for the integration of periodic functions in Sobolev spaces of mixed smoothness. In discrepancy theory, many results are based on averaging arguments. In order to make such results relevant for applications, one requires explicit constructions of point sets with “average” discrepancy. In our main result, we study Korobov’s p-sets and show that this point sets have periodic $$L_2$$L2-discrepancy of average order. This result is related to an open question of Novak and Woźniakowski.
The antimycotic effect of ellagitannins from raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) on Alternaria alternata ŁOCK 0409
Authors: Klewicka Elżbieta , Sójka Michał , Ścieszka Sylwia , Klewicki Robert , Milczarek Agnieszka , Lipińska Lidia , Kołodziejczyk Krzysztof
Published: April 2020

Alternaria spp. fungi, characterized by a high tolerance to unfavorable environmental conditions, are one of the threats for foods of plant origin. The increasing incidence of diseases caused by a demanding lifestyle, and a higher social awareness of the role of a diet in maintaining health and good condition, results in the dynamically growing demand for natural protective measures that would be safe for consumers. Ellagitannins, i.e. a group of bio-active polyphenols, may constitute an alternative for chemical preservatives. Studies demonstrated that the raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) ellagitannin formula limited the growth of Alternaria alternata 0409. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined (0.156 mg/ml), along with the minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) (0.312 mg/ml). The fungistatic (FA) activity and the ratio of linear growth (T) were also determined for the ellagitannin formula. A strong antimycotic activity of ellagitannins was demonstrated at the formula level of 0.1 mg/ml. Unfortunately, the activity was not maintained over time and after 9 days it was only 16.0%. For the ellagitannin formula, concentrations of 0.312 mg/ml (MFC) and 0.5 mg/ml (below the MFC value), a complete arrest of growth of Alternaria alternata 0409 was observed, and it was maintained for 9 days. The antimycotic activity of the ellagitannin formula was also confirmed in food environment, with cottage cheese and cherry tomatoes used as the matrix. Results confirmed that ellagitannins from raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) could be successfully used as a natural food preservative.
Differential neural processing of unpleasant sensory stimulation in patients with major depression
Authors: Malejko Kathrin , Brown Rebecca C. , Plener Paul L. , Bonenberger Martina , Graf Heiko , Abler Birgit
Published: April 2020

An altered processing of negative salient stimuli has been suggested to play a central role in the pathophysiology of major depression (MD). Besides negative affective and social stimuli, physical pain as a subtype of negative sensory stimulation has been investigated in this context. However, the few neuroimaging studies on unpleasant sensory stimulation or pain processing in MD report heterogeneous findings. Here, we investigated 47 young females, 22 with MD and 25 healthy controls (HC) using fMRI (3.0 T). Four levels of increasingly unpleasant electrical stimulation were applied. Ratings of stimulus intensity were assessed by a visual analogue scale. fMRI-data were analyzed using a 2 × 4 ANOVA. Behavioral results revealed no group differences regarding accuracy of unpleasant stimulation level ratings and sensitivity to stimulation. Regarding neural activation related to increasing levels of unpleasant stimulation, we observed increasing activation of brain regions related to the pain and salient stimulus processing corresponding to increasingly unpleasant stimulation in controls. This modulation was significantly smaller in MD compared to controls, particularly in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, the somatosensory cortex, and the posterior insula. Overall, brain regions associated with the processing of unpleasant sensory stimulation, but also associated with the salience network, were highly reactive but less modulated in female patients with MD. These results support and extent findings on altered processing of salience and of negative sensory stimuli even of a non-painful quality in female patients with MD.
Olaparib and temozolomide in desmoplastic small round cell tumors: a promising combination in vitro and in vivo
Authors: van Erp Anke E. M. , van Houdt Laurens , Hillebrandt-Roeffen Melissa H. S. , van Bree Niek F. H. N. , Flucke Uta E. , Mentzel Thomas , Shipley Janet , Desar Ingrid M. E. , Fleuren Emmy D. G. , Versleijen-Jonkers Yvonne M. H. , van der Graaf Winette T. A.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCTs) are highly malignant and very rare soft tissue sarcomas with a high unmet need for new therapeutic options. Therefore, we examined poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) and Schlafen-11 (SLFN11) expression in DSRCT tumor tissue and the combination of PARP inhibitor olaparib with the alkylating agent temozolomide (TMZ) in a preclinical DSRCT model.

Methods

PARP1 and SLFN11 have been described as predictive biomarkers for response to PARP inhibition. Expression of PARP1 and SLFN11 was assessed in 16 and 12 DSRCT tumor tissue samples, respectively. Effects of single-agent olaparib, and olaparib and TMZ combination treatment were examined using the preclinical JN-DSRCT-1 model. In vitro, single-agent and combination treatment effects on cell viability, the cell cycle, DNA damage and apoptosis were examined. Olaparib and TMZ combination treatment was also assessed in vivo.

Results

PARP1 and SLFN11 expression was observed in 100% and 92% of DSRCT tumor tissues, respectively. Olaparib treatment reduced cell viability and cell migration in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. Drug synergy between olaparib and TMZ was observed in vitro and in vivo. Combination treatment led to a cell-cycle arrest and induction of DNA damage and apoptosis, even when combined at low dosages.

Conclusion

We show high PARP1 and SLFN11 expression in DSRCT tumor material and antitumor effects following olaparib and TMZ combination treatment in a preclinical DSRCT model. This suggests that olaparib and TMZ combination treatment could be a potential treatment option for DSRCTs.
Exploring Social Biomarkers in High-Functioning Adults with Autism and Asperger’s Versus Healthy Controls: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Del Valle Rubido Marta , Hollander Eric , McCracken James T. , Shic Frederick , Noeldeke Jana , Boak Lauren , Khwaja Omar , Sadikhov Shamil , Fontoura Paulo , Umbricht Daniel
Published: April 2020

Biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are lacking but would facilitate drug development for the core deficits of the disorder. We evaluated markers proposed for characterization of differences in social communication and interaction in adults with ASD versus healthy controls (HC) for utility as biomarkers. Data pooled from an observational study and baseline data from a placebo-controlled study were analyzed. Between-group differences were observed in eye-tracking tasks for activity monitoring, biomotion, human activity preference, composite score (p = 0.0001–0.037) and pupillometry (various tasks, p = 0.017–0.05). Impaired olfaction was more common in the ASD sample versus HC (p = 0.018). Our preliminary results suggest the potential use for stratification and response sub-analyses outcome-prediction of specific eye-tracking tasks, pupillometry and olfaction tests in ASD trials
Strategic CSR in Asymmetric Cournot Duopoly
Authors: Planer-Friedrich Lisa , Sahm Marco
Published: April 2020

We examine the strategic use of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Cournot competition between two firms that differ in their marginal costs of production. The level of CSR determines the weight a firm puts on consumer surplus in its objective function before it decides upon supply. We show that the more efficient firm chooses a higher CSR level, reinforcing its dominant position. If there are sufficiently large fixed costs of CSR, only the more efficient firm will engage in CSR.
Estimation of energy flow and environmental impacts of quinoa cultivation through life cycle assessment methodology
Authors: Lotfalian Dehkordi Amin , Forootan Marziye
Published: April 2020

Quinoa is an adaptable plant that is rich in terms of nutritional properties. Currently, the promotion and cultivation of quinoa are expanding in Iran. The present study aimed to investigate the energy consumption of quinoa grain production and its environmental impacts through life cycle assessment. In this regard, in order to evaluate the environmental and energy indices, required data were collected from quinoa farmers in Isfahan. The high energy ratio (ER > 1) and positive net energy show that quinoa cultivation is efficient. Based on the results, irrigation water and nitrate fertilizer were identified as the major contributors to energy consumption. Based on the normalization method, the highest and lowest environmental impacts during the production process were related to the indices of marine aquatic ecotoxicity and ozone layer depletion, respectively. Results showed that in the global warming potential impact, 354 kg CO2eq. were emitted per production of 1 tonne of quinoa grain. Diesel fuel and nitrogen fertilizer had a significant effect on most environmental impacts. Proper management of chemical fertilizers and agricultural machinery are key factors for sustainable cultivation of quinoa.
The implications of non-anatomical positioning of a meniscus prosthesis on predicted human knee joint biomechanics
Authors: Naghibi Hamid , Janssen Dennis , van den Boogaard Ton , van Tienen Tony , Verdonschot Nico
Published: April 2020

Despite all the efforts to optimize the meniscus prosthesis system (geometry, material, and fixation type), the success of the prosthesis in clinical practice will depend on surgical factors such as intra-operative positioning of the prosthesis. In this study, the aim was therefore to assess the implications of positional changes of the medial meniscus prosthesis for knee biomechanics. A detailed validated finite element (FE) model of human intact and meniscal implanted knees was developed based on a series of in vitro experiments. Different non-anatomical prosthesis positions were applied in the FE model, and the biomechanical response during the gait stance phase compared with an anatomically positioned prosthesis, as well as meniscectomized and also the intact knee model. The results showed that an anatomical positioning of the medial meniscus prosthesis could better recover the intact knee biomechanics, while a non-anatomical positioning of the prosthesis to a limited extent alters the knee kinematics and articular contact pressure and increases the implantation failure risk. The outcomes indicate that a medial or anterior positioning of the meniscus prosthesis may be more forgiving than a posteriorly or laterally positioned prosthesis. The outcome of this study may provide a better insight into the possible consequences of meniscus prosthesis positioning errors for the patient and the prosthesis functionality.
A novel palpation–based method for tumor nodule quantification in soft tissue—computational framework and experimental validation
Authors: Palacio-Torralba Javier , Reuben Robert L. , Chen Yuhang
Published: April 2020

Variation in mechanical properties is a useful marker for cancer in soft tissue and has been used in clinical diagnosis for centuries. However, to develop such methods as instrumented palpation, there remain challenges in using the mechanical response during palpation to quantify tumor load. This study proposes a computational framework of identification and quantification of cancerous nodules in soft tissue without a priori knowledge of its geometry, size, and depth. The methodology, using prostate tissue as an exemplar, is based on instrumented palpation performed at positions with various indentation depths over the surface of the relevant structure (in this case, the prostate gland). The profile of force feedback results is then compared with the benchmark in silico models to estimate the size and depth of the cancerous nodule. The methodology is first demonstrated using computational models and then validated using tissue-mimicking gelatin phantoms, where the depth and volume of the tumor nodule is estimated with good accuracy. The proposed framework is capable of quantifying a tumor nodule in soft tissue without a priori information about its geometry, thus presenting great promise in clinical palpation diagnosis for a wide variety of solid tumors including breast and prostate cancer.
Changes in the network of tourist trails in the border zones of the Czech Republic after entering the Schengen area
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Krzysztof
Published: April 2020

Among the factors influencing tourist trail network development are political issues, including the presence of state borders, the possibility of crossing them and the accessibility of border zones. In the article, it was decided to look at changes in the offer of tourist trails (hiking and cycling) along the entire border of the Czech Republic after the extension of the Schengen area (within this area, crossing the border is possible anywhere, and not only at official border crossings). It should be emphasized here that the borders of the Czech Republic over most of their length run through mountainous areas and, apart from political factors, natural features should have a major impact on the development of tourist routes. In order to determine the coherence of the current network of trails on both sides of the Czech Republic state border, modern tourist maps have been analyzed, determining the number of places where it is possible to cross the state border with the help of a marked tourist trail. Based on that, two indicators were introduced to determine the degree of openness with all neighboring countries as regards the opportunity to cross on a tourist trail. Changes in the historical situation, a comparison of the accessibility of the border area before entering the Schengen area and 2019, were analyzed for two study areas using archival maps. Over a decade after the extension of the Schengen area, the number of places where tourist trails of neighboring countries approach the border has clearly increased. Crossing is more often made possible using hiking trails than cycling routes (trails of the first type cross the border every 7.91 km, while the latter every 13.3 km), but considering the speed of movement, it can be assessed that the openness for cyclists is higher than for hikers. Moreover, in many places there is still significant potential for further integration of tourist trail networks as trails created in one country often do not have a continuation on the other side of the border.
The Procedureless Elipse Gastric Balloon Program: Multicenter
Experience in 1770 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Ienca R. , Al Jarallah Mohammed , Caballero Adelardo , Giardiello Cristiano , Rosa Michele , Kolmer Sébastien , Sebbag Hugues , Hansoulle Julie , Quartararo Giovanni , Zouaghi Sophie Al Samman , Juneja Girish , Murcia Sébastien , Turro Roman , Pagan Alberto , Badiuddin Faruq , Dargent Jérôme , Urbain Pierre , Paveliu Stefan , di Cola Rita Schiano , Selvaggio Corrado , Al Kuwari Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The Elipse balloon is a novel, non-endoscopic option for weight
loss. It is swallowed and filled with fluid. After 4 months, the balloon
self-empties and is excreted naturally. Aim of the study was to evaluate safety
and efficacy of Elipse balloon in a large, multicenter, population.

Materials and Methods

Data from 1770 consecutive Elipse balloon patients was analyzed.
Data included weight loss, metabolic parameters, ease of placement, device
performance, and complications.

Results

Baseline patient characteristics were mean age
38.8 ± 12, mean weight
94.6 ± 18.9 kg, and mean BMI
34.4 ± 5.3 kg/m2.
Triglycerides were 145.1 ± 62.8 mg/dL, LDL
cholesterol was 133.1 ± 48.1 mg/dL, and HbA1c was
5.1 ± 1.1%. Four-month results were WL
13.5 ± 5.8 kg, %EWL
67.0 ± 64.1, BMI reduction 4.9 ± 2.0,
and %TBWL 14.2 ± 5.0. All metabolic parameters improved.
99.9% of patients were able to swallow the device with 35.9% requiring stylet
assistance. Eleven (0.6%) empty balloons were vomited after residence. Fifty-two
(2.9%) patients had intolerance requiring balloon removal. Eleven (0.6%)
balloons deflated early. There were three small bowel obstructions requiring
laparoscopic surgery. All three occurred in 2016 from an earlier design of the
balloon. Four (0.02%) spontaneous hyperinflations occurred. There was one
(0.06%) case each of esophagitis, pancreatitis, gastric dilation, gastric outlet
obstruction, delayed intestinal balloon transit, and gastric perforation
(repaired laparoscopically).

Conclusion

The Elipse™ Balloon demonstrated an excellent safety profile.
The balloon also exhibited remarkable efficacy with 14.2% TBWL and improvement
across all metabolic parameters.
Long-term cervical cancer survivors on disability pension: a subgroup in need of attention from health care providers
Authors: Dahl Alv A. , Bentzen Anne Gry , Fosså Sophie D. , Hess Siri Lothe , Steen Rita , Kiserud Cecilie E.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Survivors of cervical cancer have an increased risk for permanently reduced work ability qualifying for disability pension (DP). Few studies describe the social and health situation of long-term survivors of cervical cancer (LSCCs) on DP as a subgroup among LSCCs. The purpose was to investigate the socio-demographic and health status of LSCCs holding DP in a population-based cohort using LSCCs holding paid work as reference.

Methods

Altogether, 354 LSCCs under 67 years (age of retirement pension in Norway) at survey participated in this study. They responded to a mailed questionnaire containing social, health, and clinical issues.

Results

Among LSCCs 24% held DP at a median of 11 years (range 6–15) after diagnosis versus 12% in the general female population. Compared to LSCCs in paid work, those on DP had significantly higher mean age at survey, short education, more comorbid somatic diseases, poorer self-rated health, higher level of neurotoxic side effects, more chronic fatigue, and higher mean levels of anxiety and depression. Increased age, presence of musculo-skeletal diseases, and increased levels of depression and pain remained significantly associated with DP in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

One in four LSCCs held DP which was twice the rate of the general female population. Several somatic and psychological conditions amenable to treatment were significantly associated with holding DP.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

LSCCs holding DP should check their health regularly since conditions that can be treated are common, and health care providers should be aware of this opportunity.
Simulation-based assessment of data center waste heat utilization using aquifer thermal energy storage of a university campus
Authors: Dvorak Vojtech , Zavrel Vojtech , Torrens Galdiz J. I. , Hensen Jan L. M.
Published: April 2020

The global energy consumption of data centers (DCs) has experienced exponential growth over the last decade, that is expected to continue in the near future. Reasonable utilization of DC waste heat, which is dissipated during the computational process, can potentially be an effective solution to mitigate the environmental impact. However, the practical implementation of waste heat utilization in the DC environment is a very challenging task. The possible benefits of waste heat utilization are uncertain and difficult to quantify with the methods that are common in practice. This paper introduces a feasibility study in which dynamic simulation tools were used to predict the energy performance of a university campus resulting from the integration of a proposed DC system with an existing aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES). The presented study utilizes building energy simulation (BES) to evaluate uncertainty of the waste heat potential associated to various thermal management strategies of the proposed DC. Further in the feasibility study, the carbon footprint of the integrated approach is assessed for both the current and future situation based on measured data from the existing university campus and its district ATES system.
Contribution of well logging and seismic reflection to the Jurassic petroleum system characterization in the Chotts zone (Southern Tunisia)
Authors: Guellala Rihab , Abdelmoumen Kaoula , Sarsar Naouali Benen , Mahroug Ali
Published: April 2020

In the Chotts zone central part (southern Tunisia), the Jurassic series are interesting for hydrocarbon exploration. However, these series’ composition and geometry are little studied to propose prospection programs. Using boreholes and seismic reflection data, the present study aims a better characterization of the Jurassic series in the Chotts zone central part, in view of petroleum prospects identification. The analysis of the lithological columns and their corresponding well logs highlights an interesting petroleum system: The Tithonian, Kimmeridgian and Oxfordian carbonated deposits are the main reservoirs formations, whereas the Kimmeridgian and Callovian clays constitute the source rocks. The seal rocks are composed of the Jurassic clayey intercalations. Forty-four seismic reflection profiles calibrated using the time–depth relation in petroleum wells are interpreted in this study. The reflectors corresponding to the Malm, Dogger and Lias tops are identified and picked on the different seismic profiles. The isochrone, isobath and isopach maps subsequently deduced disclose important tectonic features that affect the Jurassic series in the Chotts zone and control their geometry. They highlight two sunken zones separated by a raised structure. This structure corresponds to an anticline, overturned toward the south, limited by E–W major faults and truncated by other oriented NW–SE. It constitutes an excellent trap structure where five interesting prospects are precisely delimited. Furthermore, the determined tectonic accidents may facilitate the migration of oil from Jurassic source rocks. The findings of this study can help for better understanding of the Jurassic petroleum system in the Chotts area and guide enormously its exploration.
Dental Imaging With Near-Infrared Transillumination Using Random Fiber Laser
Authors: Guo Jiayu , Rao Yunjiang , Zhang Weili , Cui Zewen , Liu Anran , Yan Yongmei
Published: April 2020

Contrary to the conventional detection method like radiography, the near infrared light source has been demonstrated to be suitable for dental imaging due to different reflectivity among enamel, dentin, and caries lesion. In this paper, three light sources with different bandwidths based on a transillumination method are compared. The contrast among enamel, dentin, and caries lesion is calculated in different situations. The experimental results show that the random fiber laser has the best comprehensive quality in dental imaging due to its high spectral density, low coherence, and deep penetration. This work provides a guidance for light source selection in dental imaging.
A framework for teaching socio-environmental problem-solving
Authors: Wei Cynthia A. , Deaton Michael L. , Shume Teresa J. , Berardo Ramiro , Burnside William R.
Published: April 2020

The urgent environmental challenges we now face, from climate change to biodiversity loss, involve people and the planet, the social, and the environmental. Teaching students to become effective socio-environmental problem-solvers requires clarity about concepts and competencies needed to understand and tackle these challenges. Here, we propose an educational framework that describes what students should learn and how they should apply this knowledge to address socio-environmental problems. This framework emphasizes the process of problem-solving and is based on socio-environmental (S-E) synthesis, an integrative, transdisciplinary approach to understanding and tackling complex socio-environmental problems. In addition to identifying the knowledge, skills, dispositions, and practices necessary for S-E problem-solving at the undergraduate and graduate levels, we clarify how one draws on such competencies to inquire about problems and generate solutions for them. Our primary goal is to provide a useful tool to help guide development of curricula, teaching materials, and pedagogies for S-E synthesis and interdisciplinary environmental education more broadly.
Where to draw the line: honor mindset increases retaliation in response to unfair behavior
Authors: Flinkenflogel Nic , Novin Sheida , van der Meulen Anna , Krabbendam Lydia
Published: April 2020

Past research has linked honor to a higher tendency for retaliation. A common method is to compare groups that are either low or high in honor. While effective, this does not account for within-group variation, nor isolate honor as a distinct construct from alternative differences between groups that might affect the outcome. In the current study we investigated honor as a cultural mindset, using priming methodology in both Dutch participants (who are typically low in honor endorsement) and Dutch-Turkish and Dutch-Moroccan participants (who are typically high in honor endorsement), while controlling for trait endorsement of honor values. To quantify retaliation, we used two social dilemmas: presenting an unequal offer in the Ultimatum Game, and chips being taken in the Justice Game. The results showed that priming honor resulted in an increased willingness to pay for punishment in the Justice Game, but not higher rejection in the Ultimatum Game. This suggests that unfairness by itself is not sufficient to trigger retaliation; rather, a pronounced transgression is required—in this case something being taken what is considered rightfully yours. Furthermore, decision-making in both social dilemmas was not associated with cultural background or honor endorsement. This indicates that an honor mindset needs to be salient to affect decision-making, and can affect behavior over and above the endorsement of honor values.
Enhanced Ionic Accessibility of Flexible MXene Electrodes Produced by Natural Sedimentation
Authors: Sun Ning , Guan Zhaoruxin , Zhu Qizhen , Anasori Babak , Gogotsi Yury , Xu Bin
Published: April 2020

MXene nanosheets have been used for preparing highly flexible integrated electrodes due to their two-dimensional (2D) morphology, flexibility, high conductivity, and abundant functional groups. However, restacking of 2D nanosheets inhibits the ion transport in MXene electrodes, limiting their thickness, rate performance, and energy storage capacity. Here, we employed a natural sedimentation method instead of the conventional vacuum-assisted filtration to prepare flexible Ti3C2Tx MXene films with enlarged interlayer spacing, which facilitates the access of the lithium ions to the interlayers and thus leads to a greatly enhanced electrochemical performance. The naturally sedimented flexible film shows a double lithium storage capacity compared to the conventional vacuum-filtered MXene film, along with improved rate performance and excellent cycle stability.
Analysis of apoplastic proteins expressed during net form net blotch of barley
Authors: Hassett Kealan , Ellwood Simon R. , Zulak Katherine G. , Muria-Gonzalez Mariano Jordi
Published: April 2020

The net form net blotch (NFNB) is a significant disease of barley. Its causal agent, Pyrenophora teres f. teres (PTT), has an important economic impact on yield and grain quality globally. However, the molecular interaction between PTT and barley is not fully understood. The plant–pathogen encounter comprises the secretion of diverse molecules involved in plant defence, including pathogenicity-related proteins, and fungal attack, such as proteinaceous toxins called effectors. The forefront of the molecular crosstalk between plant and fungus is the space between plant cells or apoplast. To explore the suitability of studying apoplastic proteins to assist understanding the host–pathogen interaction, a mass spectrometry-based proteomics technique was used to profile apoplastic protein differences in control and NFNB-infected leaves in a susceptible cultivar. The analysis revealed 1130 barley proteins, of which 140 were found to be significantly differentially expressed. This paper presents an overview of the major protein changes induced in the barley apoplast and discusses the involvement of individual proteins in defence and disease development. Our results suggest that the fungus may be hijacking defence signalling pathways. This investigation provides the first in vivo proteomics data for a NFNB–barley interaction, setting a background for further studies.
The atypical neuroleptics iloperidone and lurasidone inhibit human cytochrome P450 enzymes in vitro. Evaluation of potential metabolic interactions
Authors: Danek Przemysław J. , Wójcikowski Jacek , Daniel Władysława A.
Published: April 2020

Background

The present study aimed at examining the inhibitory effect of two atypical neuroleptics iloperidone and lurasidone on the main human cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in pooled human liver microsomes and cDNA-expressed CYP enzymes (supersomes).

Methods

The activity of these enzymes was determined by the following CYP-specific reactions: caffeine 3-N-demethylation/CYP1A2, diclofenac 4′-hydroxylation/CYP2C9, perazine N-demethylation/CYP2C19, bufuralol 1′-hydroxylation/CYP2D6 and testosterone 6β-hydroxylation/CYP3A4, respectively, using HPLC.

Results

Iloperidone inhibited the activity of CYP3A4 via a noncompetitive mechanism (Ki = 0.38 and 0.3 µM in liver microsomes and supersomes, respectively) and CYP2D6 via a competitive mechanism (Ki = 2.9 and 10 µM in microsomes and supersomes). Moreover, iloperidone attenuated the activity of CYP1A2 (Ki = 45 and 31 µM in microsomes and supersomes) and CYP2C19 via a mixed mechanism (Ki = 6.5 and 32 µM in microsomes and supersomes) but did not affect CYP2C9. Lurasidone moderately inhibited CYP1A2 (Ki = 12.6 and 15.5 µM in microsomes and supersomes), CYP2C9 (Ki = 18 and 3.5 µM in microsomes and supersomes) and CYP2C19 via a mixed mechanism (Ki = 18 and 18.4 µM in microsomes and supersomes), and CYP3A4 via a competitive mechanism (Ki = 29.4 and 9.1 µM in microsomes and supersomes). Moreover, lurasidone competitively, though weakly diminished the CYP2D6 activity (Ki = 37.5 and 85 µM in microsomes and supersomes).

Conclusion

The examined neuroleptics showed inhibitory effects on different CYP enzymes. The obtained results indicate that metabolic/pharmacokinetic interactions with iloperidone (involving mainly CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) and possibly with lurasidone (involving CYP1A2, CYP2C9 or CYP2C19) may occur during combined therapy.