bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-Fusing Agent Virus Reduces Arbovirus Dissemination in Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes
In Vivo
Authors: Baidaliuk Artem , Miot Elliott F. , Lequime Sebastian , Moltini-Conclois Isabelle , Delaigue Fanny , Dabo Stéphanie , Dickson Laura B. , Aubry Fabien , Merkling Sarah H. , Cao-Lormeau Van-Mai , Lambrechts Louis
Published: June 2019

The mosquito
Aedes aegypti
carries several arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) that are pathogenic to humans, including dengue and Zika viruses. Interestingly,
A. aegypti
is also naturally infected with insect-only viruses, such as cell-fusing agent virus. Although interactions between cell-fusing agent virus and dengue virus have been documented in mosquito cells in culture, whether wild strains of cell-fusing agent virus interfere with arbovirus transmission by live mosquitoes was unknown. We used an experimental approach to demonstrate that cell-fusing agent virus infection reduces the propagation of dengue and Zika viruses in
A. aegypti
mosquitoes. These results support the idea that insect-only viruses in nature can modulate the ability of mosquitoes to carry arboviruses of medical significance and that they could possibly be manipulated to reduce arbovirus transmission.
Improving infant outcomes through implementation of a family integrated care bundle including a parent supporting mobile application
Authors: Banerjee Jayanta , Aloysius Annie , Mitchell Karen , Silva Ines , Rallis Dimitrios , Godambe Sunit V , Deierl Aniko
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of the Integrated Family Delivered Care (IFDC) programme was to improve infant health outcomes and parent experience through education and competency-based training.

Design

In collaboration with veteran parents’ focus groups, we created an experienced co-designed care bundle including IFDC mobile application, which together with staff training programme comprised the IFDC programme. Infant outcomes were compared with retrospective controls in a prepost intervention analysis.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was the length of stay (LOS).

Results

Between April 2017 and May 2018, 89 families were recruited; 37 infants completed their entire care episode in our units with a minimum LOS >14 days. From a gestational age (GA) and birth weight-matched retrospective cohort, 57 control infants were selected. Data were also analysed for subgroup under 30 weeks GA (n=20).

Infants in the IFDC group were discharged earlier: median corrected GA (36+0 (IQR 35+0–38+0) vs 37+1 (IQR 36+3–38+4) weeks; p=0.003), with shorter median LOS (41 (32–63) vs 55 (41–73) days; p=0.022). This was also evident in the subgroup <30 weeks GA (61 (39–82) vs 76 (68–84) days; p=0.035). Special care days were significantly lower in the IFDC group (30 (21–41) vs 40 (31–46); p=0.006). The subgroup of infants (<30 weeks) reached full suck feeding earlier (median: 47 (37–76) vs 72 (66–82) days; p=0.006).

Conclusion

This is the first reported study from a UK tertiary neonatal unit demonstrating significant benefits of family integrated care programme. The IFDC programme has significantly reduced LOS, resulted in the earlier achievement of full enteral and suck feeds.
Gender differences in blindness, cataract blindness and cataract surgical coverage in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Prasad Manya , Malhotra Sumit , Kalaivani Mani , Vashist Praveen , Gupta Sanjeev K
Published: June 2019

Background

The magnitude of blindness is unevenly distributed worldwide. This systematic review aimed to study gender differences in the prevalence of blindness, cataract blindness and cataract surgical coverage in India among persons aged 50 years and above.

Methods

Literature search was carried out in the Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Trip databases. Data were abstracted and risk of bias was assessed for the selected full-text articles. Pooled prevalence, ORs and risk differences were synthesised by meta-analyses.

Results

22 studies were included in the systematic review. The pooled prevalence of blindness obtained for men was 4.17% and that for women was 5.68%. Women had 35% higher odds of being blind (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.62) and 69% higher odds of being cataract blind (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.44 to 1.95). Women had a 27% lower odds of getting cataract surgery (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.01). In women, around 35% of the prevalence of blindness and 33% of the prevalence of cataract blindness are attributable to their gender.

Conclusion

Marked gender differences in blindness, cataract blindness and cataract surgical coverage were seen in India, with the odds being unfavourable for women. Interventions implemented for reduction of blindness, including cataract blindness, need to consider these gender differentials in the Indian context. Further research is needed to ascertain the reasons for these differences and devise interventions to reduce these differences in order to tackle the magnitude of avoidable blindness in India.
Evaluating probiotics for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a randomised placebo-controlled multicentre trial protocol and statistical analysis plan for PROSPECT
Authors: Johnstone Jennie , Heels-Ansdell Diane , Thabane Lehana , Meade Maureen , Marshall John , Lauzier Francois , Duan Erick Huaileigh , Zytaruk Nicole , Lamarche Daphnee , Surette Michael , Cook Deborah J
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most common healthcare-associated infection in critically ill patients. Prior studies suggest that probiotics may reduce VAP and other infections in critically ill patients; however, most previous randomised trials were small, single centre studies. The Probiotics: Prevention of Severe Pneumonia and Endotracheal Colonization Trial (PROSPECT) aims to determine the impact of the probioticLactobacillus rhamnosusGG on VAP and other clinically important outcomes in critically ill adults.

Methods

PROSPECT is a multicentre, concealed, randomised, stratified, blinded, controlled trial in patients ≥18 years old, anticipated to be mechanically ventilated ≥72 hours, in intensive care units (ICUs) in Canada, the USA and Saudi Arabia. Patients receive either 1×1010 colony forming units ofL. rhamnosusGG twice daily or an identical appearing placebo. Those at increased risk of probiotic infection are excluded. The primary outcome is VAP. Secondary outcomes are other ICU-acquired infections includingClostridioides difficileinfection, diarrhoea (including antibiotic-associated diarrhoea), antimicrobial use, ICU and hospital length of stay and mortality. The planned sample size of 2650 patients is based on an estimated 15% VAP rate and will provide 80% power to detect a 25% relative risk reduction.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol and statistical analysis plan outlines the methodology, primary and secondary analyses, sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses. PROSPECT is approved by Health Canada (#9427-M1133-45C), the research ethics boards of all participating hospitals and Public Health Ontario. Results will be disseminated via academic channels (peer reviewed journal publications, professional healthcare fora including international conferences) and conventional and social media. The results of PROSPECT will inform practice guidelines worldwide.

Trialregistration number

NCT02462590; Pre-results.
The work of return to work. Challenges of returning to work when you have chronic pain: a meta-ethnography
Authors: Grant Mary , O-Beirne-Elliman Joanne , Froud Robert , Underwood Martin , Seers Kate
Published: June 2019

Aims

To understand obstacles to returning to work, as perceived by people with chronic non-malignant pain and as perceived by employers, and to develop a conceptual model.

Design

Synthesis of qualitative research using meta-ethnography.

Data sources

Eleven bibliographic databases from inception to April 2017 supplemented by citation tracking.

Review methods

We used the methods of meta-ethnography. We identified concepts and conceptual categories, and developed a conceptual model and line of argument.

Results

We included 41 studies. We identified three core categories in the conceptual model: managing pain, managing work relationships and making workplace adjustments. All were influenced by societal expectations in relation to work, self (self-belief, self-efficacy, legitimacy, autonomy and the meaning of work for the individual), health/illness/pain representations, prereturn to work support and rehabilitation, and system factors (healthcare, workplace and social security). A mismatch of expectations between the individual with pain and the workplace contributed to a feeling of being judged and difficulties asking for help. The ability to navigate obstacles and negotiate change underpinned mastering return to work despite the pain. Where this ability was not apparent, there could be a downward spiral resulting in not working.

Conclusions

For people with chronic pain, and for their employers, navigating obstacles to return to work entails balancing the needs of (1) the person with chronic pain, (2) work colleagues and (3) the employing organisation. Managing pain, managing work relationships and making workplace adjustments appear to be central, but not straightforward, and require substantial effort to culminate in a successful return to work.
Protocol for a double-blind placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in reducing antibiotics for infection in care home residents: the Probiotics to Reduce Infections iN CarE home reSidentS (PRINCESS) trial
Authors: Owen-Jones Eleri , Lowe Rachel , Lown Mark , Gillespie David , Addison Katy , Bayer Tony , Calder Philip C , Davies Jane , Davoudianfar Mina , Downs James , Edwards Alison , Francis Nick A , Fuller Richard , Hobbs Richard , Hood Kerenza , Lau Mandy , Little Paul , Moore Michael , Shepherd Victoria , Stanton Helen , Toghill Alun , Wootton Mandy , Butler Chris C
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Care home residents are at increased risk of infections and antibiotic prescription. Reduced antibiotic use from fewer infections would improve quality of life. TheProbiotics toReduceInfections iN CarEhome reSidentS(PRINCESS) trial aims to determine the efficacy and investigate mechanisms of daily probiotics on antibiotic use and incidence of infections in care home residents.

Methods and analysis

PRINCESS is a double-blind, individually randomised, placebo-controlled trial that will assess the effect of a daily oral probiotic combination ofLactobacillus rhamnosus,GG (LGG) andBifidobacterium animalissubsp.lactis, BB-12 (BB-12) on cumulative antibiotic administration days (CAADs) (primary outcome) for infection in up to 330 care home residents aged ≥65 years over up to 12 months. Secondary outcomes include:Infection:Total number of days of antibiotic administration for each infection type (respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, gastrointestinal infection, unexplained fever and other); number, site, duration of infection; estimation of incidence and duration of diarrhoea and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea;Stool microbiology:Clostridium difficileinfection; Gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae and vancomycin-resistant enterococci; LGG and BB-12.Oral microbiology: Candidaspp.Health and well-being:Self and/or proxy health-related quality of life EQ5D (5 L); self-and/or proxy-reported ICEpop CAPability measure for older people.Hospitalisations:number and duration of all-cause hospital stays.Mortality:deaths.Mechanistic immunology outcomes:influenza vaccine efficacy (haemagglutination inhibition assay and antibody titres); full blood count and immune cell phenotypes, plasma cytokines and chemokines; cytokine and chemokine response in whole blood stimulatedex vivoby toll-like receptor 2 and 4 agonists; monocyte and neutrophil phagocytosis ofEscherichia coli; serum vitamin D.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is from the Wales Research Ethics Committee 3. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conferences; results will be of interest to patient and policy stakeholders.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN16392920; Pre-results.
Exploratory study on development challenges of maternal and child healthcare institutions in China: a qualitative study combining interviews and focus groups
Authors: Tang Daisheng , Li Meng , Ung Carolina Oi Lam , Tang Chengxiang , Hu Hao
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To manage the development of the maternal and child healthcare institution (MCHI) in China, it is important to understand the key challenges and the influencing factors for sustainable development of MCHIs. However, these areas have not been fully investigated previously. This qualitative study aims to systematically explore the perceived development challenges for MCHIs from the perspectives of MCHI staff and government officials.

Design

Qualitative approaches, including focus group, semistructured interview and documentary analysis, were employed to identify development challenges encountered by the MCHIs in Chengdu city, China.

Participants

Totally 16 medical staff of MCHIs and officials from local government.

Measures

Participants’ opinions about the development challenges for MCHI.

Results

The study revealed the main development challenges for MCHIs included: (1) incapability to provide differentiated medical service (including differentiated maternal and child health maintenance, integrative model of health maintenance and disease treatment, lack of innovation capability); (2) insufficient financial support; (3) shortage of gynaecologists and paediatricians; (4) insufficient facilities and medical equipment; (5) weakness in adopting information technology and (6) constraints of law and regulations.

Conclusions

The study recommends that MCHI should take governance reform to promote healthcare innovation to ensure the sustainable development of MCHI. Public–private partnership needs to be considered for the sustainable development of MCHIs.
Protocol of a research project ‘Projections of the burden of disease and disability in Finland – health policy prospects’ using cross-sectional health surveys and register-based follow-up
Authors: Paalanen Laura , Härkänen Tommi , Tolonen Hanna
Published: June 2019

Introduction

With the rapid ageing of the population in Europe, reliable estimates of the future development of the disease and disability burden as well as healthy life years in the older sections of the population are crucial. Meanwhile, the future prospects of the health and functional ability of the working-aged population are critical. The aims ofthe Projections of the burden of disease and disability in Finland – health policy prospectsresearch project are to provide information about the long-term consequences of health-related behaviours of the population and to project the potential improvement of the burden of disease and disability based on realistic scenarios about the development of risk behaviours in the total population and its subgroups.

Methods and analysis

The analyses will be based on data from representative cross-sectional and longitudinal health examination surveys (HESs) conducted between 1972 to 2017 in Finland, and register data from several national administrative registers. Included HESs (FINRISK Surveys from 1972 to 2012, Mini-Finland Survey from 1978 to 1980, the Health 2000/2011 Surveys and the FinHealth 2017 Study) provide abundant information about biological and behavioural risk factors and the health and morbidity of the population. The modifiable risk factors used as predictors include hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol use and unfavourable diet. The main outcomes are ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular diseases, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. Within the project, novel projection techniques of data-driven Bayesian hierarchical models to provide robust and comparable estimates will be developed.

Ethics and dissemination

The prevailing legislation and regulations have been followed for all surveys. Surveys since 1997 have been approved by the respective Ethics Committees covering the scope of this project. A written informed consent was obtained from participants since 1997. The outputs of the project will include 8 to 10 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Reducing repeat paediatric emergency department attendance for non-urgent care: a systematic review of the effectiveness of interventions
Authors: Poku Brenda Agyeiwaa , Hemingway Pippa
Published: June 2019

Objective

Non-urgent paediatric ED (PED) visits appear to contribute a large portion to the growing use of EDs globally. Several interventions have tried to curb repeated non-urgent attendances, but no systematic review of their effectiveness exists. This review examines the effectiveness of interventions designed to reduce subsequent non-urgent PED visits after a non-urgent attendance.

Method

A systematic review design. A systematic search of four databases and key journals was conducted from their inception to November 2018. Experimental studies, involving children aged 0–18 years presenting to an ED for non-urgent care, which assessed the effectiveness of interventions on subsequent non-urgent attendance were considered.

Results

2120 studies were identified. Six studies, including four randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and two quasi-experimental, were included. Studies were of moderate quality methodologically. All studies originated from the USA and involved informational and/or follow-up support interventions. Only two RCTs demonstrated the longest duration of intervention effects on reducing subsequent non-urgent PED attendance. These studies identified participants retrospectively after ED evaluation. The RCT with the largest number of participants involved follow-up support by primary physicians. Meta-analysis was impractical due to wide heterogeneity of the interventions.

Conclusions

There is inconclusive evidence to support any intervention aimed at reducing subsequent non-urgent PED visits following a non-urgent attendance. The long-term impact of interventions is limited, although the effect may be maximised if delivered by primary care providers in children identified after their ED attendance. However, further research is required to evaluate the impact of any such strategies in settings outside the USA.
Integrated multiomic analysis reveals comprehensive tumour heterogeneity and novel immunophenotypic classification in hepatocellular carcinomas
Authors: Zhang Qi , Lou Yu , Yang Jiaqi , Wang Junli , Feng Jie , Zhao Yali , Wang Lin , Huang Xing , Fu Qihan , Ye Mao , Zhang Xiaozhen , Chen Yiwen , Ma Ce , Ge Hongbin , Wang Jianing , Wu Jiangchao , Wei Tao , Chen Qi , Wu Junqing , Yu Chengxuan , Xiao Yanyu , Feng Xinhua , Guo Guoji , Liang Tingbo , Bai Xueli
Published: June 2019

Objective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is heterogeneous, especially in multifocal tumours, which decreases the efficacy of clinical treatments. Understanding tumour heterogeneity is critical when developing novel treatment strategies. However, a comprehensive investigation of tumour heterogeneity in HCC is lacking, and the available evidence regarding tumour heterogeneity has not led to improvements in clinical practice.

Design

We harvested 42 samples from eight HCC patients and evaluated tumour heterogeneity using whole-exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics, cytometry by time-of-flight, and single-cell analysis. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reactions were performed to confirm the expression levels of genes. Three independent cohorts were further used to validate the findings.

Results

Tumour heterogeneity is considerable with regard to the genomes, transcriptomes, proteomes, and metabolomes of lesions and tumours. The immune status of the HCC microenvironment was relatively less heterogenous. Targeting local immunity could be a suitable intervention with balanced precision and practicability. By clustering immune cells in the HCC microenvironment, we identified three distinctive HCC subtypes with immunocompetent, immunodeficient, and immunosuppressive features. We further revealed the specific metabolic features and cytokine/chemokine expression levels of the different subtypes. Determining the expression levels of CD45 and Foxp3 using immunohistochemistry facilitated the correct classification of HCC patients and the prediction of their prognosis.

Conclusion

There is comprehensive intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity in all dimensions of HCC. Based on the results, we propose a novel immunophenotypic classification of HCCs that facilitates prognostic prediction and may support decision making with regard to the choice of therapy.
Relationship between alcohol use, blood pressure and hypertension: an association study and a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Zhao Pian-Pian , Xu Liang-Wen , Sun Tao , Wu Yin-Yin , Zhu Xiao-Wei , Zhang Bo , Cheng Zhi , Cai Xiao , Liu Yu-Chao , Zhao Ting-Ting , Wu Ting-Ting , Ma Hai-Yan , Wang Li , Zhang Xing-Wei , Yang Lei , Zheng Hou-Feng
Published: June 2019

Background

Past studies have found a strong relationship between alcohol drinking and human health.

Methods

In this study, we first tested the association of rs671 with alcohol use in 2349 participants in southeast China. We then evaluated the causal impact between alcohol use and cardiovascular traits through a Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis.

Results

We found strong evidence for the association of rs671 in theALDH2gene with alcohol drinking (p=6.08×10-47; ORadjG=4.50, 95% CI 3.67 to 5.52). We found that female G carriers of rs671 had a higher proportion of non-drinkers than male G carriers (88.01% vs 38.70%). In non-drinkers, the female G allele frequency was higher than the male G allele frequency (71.1% vs 55.2%). MR analysis suggested that alcohol use had a causal effect on blood pressure (increasing 9.46 mm Hg for systolic blood pressure (p=9.67×10-4) and 7.50 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure (p=9.62×10-5)), and on hypertension in men (p=0.011; OR =1.19, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.36) and in pooled samples (p=0.013; OR =1.20, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.39), but not in women. We did not observe a causal effect of alcohol use on body mass index and lipid levels; further studies are needed to clarify the non-causal relationship.

Conclusions

Compared to never-drinkers, current and previous alcohol use had a causal effect on blood pressure and hypertension in pooled samples and in men. These results reflect Chinese culture which does not encourage women to drink.
Impact of tax and tobacco-free generation on health-adjusted life years in the Solomon Islands: a multistate life table simulation
Authors: Singh Ankur , Petrović-van der Deen Frederieke Sanne , Carvalho Natalie , Lopez Alan D , Blakely Tony
Published: June 2019

Objective

To estimate health-adjusted life years (HALY) gained in the Solomon Islands for the 2016 population over the remainder of their lives, for three interventions: hypothetical eradication of cigarettes; 25% annual tax increases to 2025 such that tax represents 70% of sales price of tobacco; and a tobacco-free generation (TFG).

Design

We adapted an existing multistate life table model, using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) and other data inputs, including diseases contributing >5% of the GBD estimated disability-adjusted life years lost in the Solomon Islands in 2016. Tax effects used price increases and price elasticities to change cigarette smoking prevalence. The TFG was modelled by no uptake of smoking among those 20 years and under after 2016.

Results

Under business as usual (BAU) smoking prevalence decreased over time, and decreased faster under the tax intervention (especially for younger ages). For example, for 20-year-old males the best estimated prevalence in 2036 was 22.9% under BAU, reducing to 14.2% under increased tax. Eradicating tobacco in 2016 would achieve 1510 undiscounted HALYs per 1000 people alive in 2016, over the remainder of their lives. The tax intervention would achieve 370 HALYs per 1000 (24.5% of potential health gain), and the TFG 798 HALYs per 1000 people (52.5%). By time horizon, 10.5% of the HALY gains from tax and 8.0% from TFG occur from 2016 to 2036, and the remainder at least 20 years into the future.

Conclusion

This study quantified the potential of two tobacco control policies over maximum health gains achievable through tobacco eradication in the Solomon Islands.
Investigation of amino acetonitrile (NH2CH2CN) — a precursor of glycine, in the interstellar medium
Authors: Sharma Mohit K.
Published: June 2019

Known values of rotational and centrifugal distortion constants, in conjunction with electric dipole moment, have been used to calculate energies for the ground rotational levels, ground vibrational state, and ground electronic state of amino acetonitrile (NH2CH2CN), which is of interest for studies of life in the universe. Probabilities for radiative transitions between the rotational levels are also calculated. Such transition probabilities are used in conjunction with scaled values for the collisional rate coefficients for large velocity gradient calculations. A line 110–111 at 450.31 MHz is found to show anomalous absorption. Two observed lines 909–808 at 80.947 GHz and 120,12–110,11 at 107.283 GHz, and another nine lines, 918–817, 716–615, 817–716, 919–818, 1019–918, 808–707, 100,10–909, 110,11–100,10, and 707–606, are found to show emission features. There are several other observed lines, which are found weaker than these 11 lines. These 10 additional lines may help in the identification of amino acetonitrile in the interstellar medium.
Parasites of Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio): an invasive species in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Kucher Hasanna , Stock T.M. , Das Mrinal K.
Published: June 2019

A cyprinid, the Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio (Bloch, 1782)), has become an established invasive fish in several watersheds in Alberta, Canada. Originating in Eurasia, Prussian carp negatively impact native fish through predation, competition, and habitat modification. Prior to this study, nothing was known regarding the external and internal parasites of these fish in North America, although nine studies had been conducted in Europe and Asia. We examined 22 fish (20 female, 2 male) ranging from 3 to 5 years of age and recorded morphological features, stomach contents, and performed standard necropsy examinations for parasites. One parasite species, the acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus bulbocolli Linkins in Van Cleave, 1919, was found in three fish (14%), with a mean intensity of 1.0. This is a new host record and the first report of any acanthocephalan parasite in Prussian carp. We conclude that Prussian carp are not introducing any novel parasites into native fish and that they are resistant to most infections by native parasites.
Rotating thin-shell wormholes with scalar field
Authors: Sharif M. , Mumtaz Saadia
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we construct (2 + 1)-dimensional thin-shell wormholes from rotating Bañados–Teitelboim–Zanelli black hole and discuss their stability with the influence of scalar field at thin-shell. We apply Israel thin-shell formalism to evaluate surface stresses and study the behavior of energy conditions. We also study attractive and repulsive characteristics of the respective wormhole configurations according to the direction of radial acceleration. The linearized stability of rotating thin-shell wormholes is analyzed by assuming three different scalar field models at thin-shell. It is found that the increasing rate of angular momentum appears as an effective ingredient for stable wormholes while electric charge does not provide significant results in this regard. We conclude that less massive scalar field yields more stable 3D wormhole solutions.
Quantum computation by teleportation and symmetry
Authors: Wang Dong-Sheng
Published: June 2019

A preliminary overview of measurement-based quantum computation (QC) in the setting of symmetry and topological (TOP) phases of quantum matter is given. The underlying mechanism for universal QC by teleportation or symmetry are analyzed, with the emphasis on the relation with tensor-network states in the presence of various symmetries. Perspectives are also given for the role of symmetry and phases of quantum matter in measurement-based QC and fault tolerance.
Calcium conductance-dependent network synchronization is differentially modulated by firing frequency
Authors: Lu Meili , Qin Yingmei , Li Huiyan , Che Yanqiu , Han Chunxiao , Wei Xile
Published: June 2019

Synchronous oscillations in certain frequencies of the sub-thalamic nucleus (STN) neurons are closely related to the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Recent results have highlighted the importance of calcium channels in the synchronization properties and regulation of STN neurons. In this paper, a novel hybrid neuron model which can capture the electrophysiological signature of neurons with low or high density of calcium channels is used to explore the synchronization propensity and regulation by firing frequencies of neurons. Numerical simulations show that the synchronization propensity of networks consisting of the novel hybrid neurons is quite distinguishing in low and high calcium conductance modes, especially, the synchronization can be differentially modulated by network frequencies in the two modes. By analyzing the firing frequency and phase response curve of the individual neuron, we find that a single parameter of the hybrid neuron, which is a direct image of the calcium conductance, is crucial in determining the excitability and response properties of the neuron. Different phase response properties of single neurons in different calcium conductance modes lead to network synchronization discrepancies.
Laser-irradiated gold nanoparticles for breast cancer therapy
Authors: Ashiq Muhammad Gul Bahar
Published: June 2019

Current study involves laser-induced gold nanoparticles (GNPs) for breast cancer therapy. GNPs as a therapeutic agent using nanophotolysis approach are discussed. Coulomb explosion of GNPs is studied numerically using MATLAB. Our findings show that [Formula: see text] ions are generated for short pulse laser interaction of 8 ns and laser irradiation of 2 J/cm2 penetrates in the tumor depth of 3.30 cm. Cluster size of 98 nm produced [Formula: see text] nanobullets that target the breast tumor. Short pulse laser of 2.27 ns generates maximum shock front velocity of [Formula: see text] cm/s. Shock front of 20–146 [Formula: see text]m is produced for effectively damaging the breast cancer tissues. A total of 825 cells are damaged by [Formula: see text] ions. Current results are matched with the literature and are in good correlation. Hence, we conclude that laser-irradiated GNPs using nanophotolysis approach are useful for targeted therapy of breast tumor.
Numerical study of unsteady cavitating flows with RANS and DES models
Authors: Tian Chunlai , Chen Tairan , Zou Tian
Published: June 2019

Unsteady cavitating flow with high Reynolds number and significant instability commonly exists in fluid machinery and engineering system. The high-resolution approaches, such as direct numerical simulation and large eddy simulation, are not practical for engineering issues due to the significant cost in the computational resource. The objective of this paper is to provide the approach with Detached-Eddy Simulation (DES) model based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations for predicting unsteady cavitating flows. The credibility of the approach is validated by a set of numerical examples of its application: the unsteady cavitating flows around the two-dimensional (2D) Clark-Y hydrofoil and the three-dimensional (3D) blunt body. It is found that the calculated cavity shapes, cavity lengths and unsteady characteristics by DES model agree well with the experimental measurements and observations. Further analysis indicates that the turbulent eddy viscosity around the cavity and wake region is well predicted by the DES model, which results in the development of large-scale vortexes, and further cavitation instability. The DES model, which exhibits a significantly unsteady 3D behavior, is a more comprehensive turbulence model for unsteady cavitating flows.
Band-stop filter based on a metal/insulator-disk array/metal structure
Authors: Duan J. L. , Song G. , Lang P. L. , Duan G. Y. , Xie F. Z.
Published: June 2019

We describe a band-stop filter based on a periodic dielectric-disk array inserted into a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguide. We use finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) methods to study the characteristics of our proposed structure. The results show that there is a flat stop band in the transmission spectrum, in which the transmission is close to zero. The central wavelength of the filter can be controlled by adjusting the lattice constant of the disk array. We discuss the maximum bandwidth and provide a set of parameters suitable for designing a band-stop filter that has a flat stop band-width of approximately 400 nm and a superior on/off ratio. Our structure has potential applications in the design of nanoscale optical devices.
INFLUENCE OF CEO2 ADDITION AND SCANNING SPEED ON MICROSTRUCTURE AND TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR OF LASER-CLAD Ti-Co REINFORCED COATINGS ON Ti-6Al-4V ALLOY
Authors: ADESINA O. S. , FAROTADE G. A. , POPOOLA A. P. I. , OLORUNTOBA D. T.
Published: June 2019

Ti-6Al-4V alloy is restricted in industrial application as a result of its relatively low hardness and poor tribological properties. However, the limitations associated with Ti-6Al-4V in severe tribological conditions can be improved via laser cladding technique. In this study, the influence of rare earth oxide (CeO[Formula: see text] addition on microstructure, hardness and tribological behavior of laser-clad titanium–cobalt-based coatings on Ti6Al4V alloy was investigated. The optimized parameters used for laser depositions are laser power 900[Formula: see text]W; beam spot size 3[Formula: see text]mm; powder feed rate 1.0[Formula: see text]g/min; gas flow rate 1.2[Formula: see text]L/min while laser scan speed was varied at 0.6[Formula: see text]m/min and 1.2[Formula: see text]m/min. Thereafter, the coating morphology as well as wear mechanism of the coatings of CeO2 particles (5–10[Formula: see text]wt.%) dispersed in TiCo matrix were investigated via scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersed spectrometry (EDS), whereas the intermetallic phases present in the coatings were observed using Philips PW1713 X-ray diffractometer (XRD). Furthermore, the micro-hardness values of the coatings were recorded while wear test was carried out using a reciprocating set up (UMT-2 — CETR tribometer). Results revealed that the incorporation of CeO2 particles into the melt pool influenced the morphology of the coatings, thus resulting in finer cellular dendrites, homogenous and strong metallurgical bonding between the laser cladded coating and the substrate. The phases revealed various fractions of interdendritic compounds (CeCo2, Ni3Ti, Co2Ti, CoTi, Al2O3, TiO, AlTi3, and Ce2O[Formula: see text] dispersed within the coating matrix, thus resulting in 2.68 times improvement on the surface hardness and 47.4% reduction in friction coefficient in comparison with Ti-6Al-4V alloy.
TRIBOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF AL/TiB2/NANO-GR HYBRID COMPOSITES EXPOSED TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURE
Authors: PORIA SUSWAGATA , SUTRADHAR GOUTAM , SAHOO PRASANTA
Published: June 2019

High-temperature tribological behavior of hybrid Al/TiB2/nano-Gr composites is reported in this study. Fabrication of composites is done using ultrasonic cavitation assisted stir casting method. Cast composites are characterized through micro-hardness values, optical images and SEM images. Higher amount of nano-Gr incorporation reduces the hardness of hybrid composites. Effect of operating temperature on wear and friction behavior is studied for different hybrid ratios using a high-temperature tribo-tester over a temperature range of 50–250∘C and under normal load in the range of 25–75 N. Worn surfaces are characterized using FESEM images. EDX mapping of surfaces is done to observe the elements present on the surface after tribo-tests. Increase in the amount of reinforcement improves the wear resistance and friction behavior of composites at all temperatures. At lower operating load, wear rate of composites are found to be steady with increase in operating temperature. A protective layer enriched with nano-Gr particle is formed on the tribo-surface at higher temperature. Adhesion mechanism plays the dominant role in wear of hybrid composites at elevated temperatures.
EFFECT OF ELECTRODE MATERIAL ON CUT QUALITIES OF SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY DURING WEDM: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: MAJUMDER HIMADRI , MAITY KALIPADA
Published: June 2019

This paper compares some of the vigorous machinability characteristics of SMA-Nitinol during WEDM process using uncoated and zinc coated brass wire electrodes. A series of experiments were regulated based on Taguchi’s L[Formula: see text] orthogonal array with an objective of unveiling the benefits of using coated brass wire electrodes in comparison to uncoated counterparts. Five factors, namely pulse-on time ([Formula: see text]), discharge current ([Formula: see text]), wire tension (WT), wire speed (WS) and flushing pressure (FP), were considered, each at three different levels to scrutinize four responses, viz. surface roughness (Ra), kerf width (KW), machining time (MT) and micro-hardness ([Formula: see text]h). It was perceived that zinc-coated brass wire was more preferable to get favorable responses like Ra, KW and [Formula: see text]h when compared with brass wire counterparts. FESEM micrographs also revealed that micro and large cracks, wide craters, recast layer were more prominent on the WEDMed surface of brass wire compared to zinc-coated brass wire. Use of zinc-coated brass wire electrode significantly improves the machinability of the selected work material within the specified range of process variables.
Projection of crosscap
Authors: Sichacá Martín Barajas , Kabata Yutaro
Published: June 2019

The apparent contour of a surface in [Formula: see text]-space can be investigated in terms of singularity theory. We show the precise bifurcation diagrams of the apparent contours of generic crosscap surfaces with respect to orthogonal projections. Especially, our bifurcation diagrams contain also the information of the projected images of the singular sets of crosscap surfaces.
Pathways of DNA Transfer to Plants from Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Related Bacterial Species
Authors: Lacroix Benoît , Citovsky Vitaly
Published: June 2019

Genetic transformation of host plants by Agrobacterium tumefaciens and related species represents a unique model for natural horizontal gene transfer. Almost five decades of studying the molecular interactions between Agrobacterium and its host cells have yielded countless fundamental insights into bacterial and plant biology, even though several steps of the DNA transfer process remain poorly understood. Agrobacterium spp. may utilize different pathways for transferring DNA, which likely reflects the very wide host range of Agrobacterium. Furthermore, closely related bacterial species, such as rhizobia, are able to transfer DNA to host plant cells when they are provided with Agrobacterium DNA transfer machinery and T-DNA. Homologs of Agrobacterium virulence genes are found in many bacterial genomes, but only one non- Agrobacterium bacterial strain, Rhizobium etli CFN42, harbors a complete set of virulence genes and can mediate plant genetic transformation when carrying a T-DNA-containing plasmid.
Resolving Fusarium: Current Status of the Genus
Authors: Summerell Brett A.
Published: June 2019

The fungal genus Fusarium is one of the most important groups of plant-pathogenic fungi and affects a huge diversity of crops in all climatic zones across the globe. In addition, it is also a human pathogen and produces several extremely important mycotoxins in food products that have deleterious effects on livestock and humans. These fungi have been plagued over the past century by different perspectives of what constitutes the genus Fusarium and how many species occur within the genus. Currently, there are conflicting views on the generic boundaries and what defines a species that impact disease diagnosis, management, and biosecurity legislation. An approach to defining and identifying Fusarium that places the needs of the community of users (especially, in this case, phytopathologists) to the forefront is presented in this review.
Protein Sorting in Healthy and Diseased Photoreceptors
Authors: Imanishi Yoshikazu
Published: June 2019

Rods and cones are retinal photoreceptor neurons required for our visual sensation. Because of their highly polarized structures and well-characterized processes of G protein–coupled receptor–mediated phototransduction signaling, these photoreceptors have been excellent models for studying the compartmentalization and sorting of proteins. Rods and cones have a modified ciliary compartment called the outer segment (OS) as well as non-OS compartments. The distinct membrane protein compositions between OS and non-OS compartments suggest that the OS is separated from the rest of the cellular compartments by multiple barriers or gates that are selectively permissive to specific cargoes. This review discusses the mechanisms of protein sorting and compartmentalization in photoreceptor neurons. Proper sorting and compartmentalization of membrane proteins are required for signal transduction and transmission. This review also discusses the roles of compartmentalized signaling, which is compromised in various retinal ciliopathies.
Morphological and Immunohistochemical Characterization of Human Intrinsic Gastric Neurons
Authors: Anetsberger Daniel , Kürten Stefanie , Jabari Samir , Brehmer Axel
Published: June 2019

Our knowledge about human gastric enteric neuron types is even more limited than that of human intestinal types. Here, we immunohistochemically stained wholemounts and sections of gastric specimens obtained from 18 tumor-resected patients. Myenteric wholemounts were labeled for choline acetyl transferase (ChAT), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and the human neuronal protein HuC/D (as pan­neuronal marker for quantitative analysis) or alternatively for neurofilament (for morphological evaluation). ChAT-positive neurons outnumbered NOS-positive neurons (56 vs. 27%), and neurons negative for both markers accounted for 17%. Two larger groups of neurons (each between 12 and 14%) costained for ChAT and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) or for NOS and VIP, respectively. Clear morphochemical correlation was found for uniaxonal stubby type I neurons (ChAT+; putative excitatory inter- or motor neurons), for uniaxonal spiny type I neurons (NOS+/VIP+; putative inhibitory motor or interneurons), and for multiaxonal type II neurons (ChAT+; putative afferent neurons; immunostaining of additional wholemounts revealed their coreactivity for somatostatin). Whereas these latter neuron types were already known from the human intestine, the morphology of gastric myenteric neurons coreactive for ChAT and VIP was newly described: they had numerous short, extremely thin dendrites and resembled, together with their cell bodies, a “hairy” head. In our sections, nerve fibers coreactive for ChAT and VIP were commonly found only in the mucosa. We suggest these myenteric ChAT+/VIP+/hairy neurons to be mucosal effector neurons. In contrast to myenteric neurons, the much less common submucosal neurons were not embedded in a continuous plexus and did not display any clear morphochemical phenotypes.
ÁFRICA SUBSAARIANA: ARENA INTERNACIONAL
Authors: Schützer Herbert , Antunes Duarte Luciano
Published: June 2019

O atual cenário geopolítico da região subsaariana é pautado por disputas entre as potências centrais e médias na busca das vantagens econômicas, a fim de garantir as riquezas naturais subsaarianas. No atual cenário de disputas geopolíticas em palcos africanos, destacam-se ações de antigos Estados coloniais que visam a consecução de seus próprios interesses, em detrimento das demandas locais. Entre os governos petistas, no Brasil (2003-2016), contudo, esboçou-se um modus operandi diferente do geral. A inserção geopolítica brasileira se deu a nível de colaboração e multilateralidade. Este artigo tem como papel (role) analisar e discutir estas diferentes ações no continente africano, sob a pauta do capitalismo contemporâneo.
EPISTEMES MUSICOSMODANÇANTES A PARTIR DE NARRATIVAS AUDIOVISUAIS CARIBENHAS
Authors: Braga Liliane Pereira
Published: June 2019

A partir de tarefa epistêmica em abordagens de estudos culturais e opções decoloniais1, tenho buscado descentrar alicerces de modernidade/colonialidade em controle de subjetividades como nos propõe Mignolo (2015, p. 10), analisando produções audiovisuais afrodiaspóricas e buscando pensares, viveres e fazeres outros, que se insurgem à outrificação hierarquizante que lhes é imposta pelo Ocidente. Modos de ser e viver de afro-brasileirxs e caribenhxs1 incluem subjetividades geradas em sistemas de plantation que, desde períodos coloniais, vem confrontando racismo epistemológico euro-iluminista de concepção de história universal, racional, linear, progressiva (BRAGA, 2016) por meio de pedagogias performáticas, em que saberes apreendidos são saberes vivenciados. Neste artigo, proponho uso de narrativas audiovisuais como fonte de pesquisa histórica, desafiando o poder do arquivo eurocêntrico (TROUILLOT, 1995) e relacionando matrizes culturais afrodiaspóricas de Brasil e de Caribe, a partir de filmes aqui analisados: “Como conquistar a América em uma noite” (Canadá-Haiti, 2004, dir.: Dany Laferrière), “Teorema” (Cuba, 2012, dir.: Mariela Lopez Galano) e “O tempo dos Orixás” (Brasil, 2014, dir.: Eliciana Nascimento).
“CHUTA QUE É MACUMBA”: O PERCURSO HISTÓRICO-LEGAL DA PERSEGUIÇÃO ÀS RELIGIÕES AFRO-BRASILEIRAS
Authors: Dias João Ferreira
Published: June 2019

Neste artigo é analisado o percurso histórico-legal da perseguição às religiões afro-brasileiras, desde o seu começo até aos dias de hoje. Esse cenário de perseguição evidencia a forma como o aparelho jurídico brasileiro fez respaldo de concepções científicas raciais reproduzidas ao longo da história do comércio escravocrata e da constituição da República brasileira. Noções de “poluição social”, “crendice”, entre outras, continuam uma leitura científica evolucionista das culturas africanas, leitura instrumentalizada em favor da construção de um modelo de sociedade brasileira de base cristã. Esse fenómeno impõe-se, novamente, nos dias de hoje, de forma aguda com o cenário da perseguição religiosa evangélica, sendo que o sacrifício animal como modus operandi é utilizado como recurso político demonizatório.
BRASIL E A ÁFRICA DO SUL NAS PÁGINAS DA REVISTA VEJA (1968-1985)
Authors: Schlickmann Mariana , Silva Cristiane Mare da , Pacheco Ana Júlia
Published: June 2019

O presente artigo tem por objetivo refletir sobre as relações entre Brasil e a África do Sul, nas páginas da Revista Veja, de 1968, ano da criação do periódico, até 1985, fim do Regime Civil-Militar, instaurado em 1964. O semanário da Editora Abril, que alcançou a tiragem de um milhão de exemplares, é expressão de um projeto editorial adequado as novas classes médias urbanas, nascidas com a industrialização, e, ao mesmo tempo, em sintonia com o Regime, é parte da estratégia de formação de um público, sua percepção do Brasil e do mundo. Para o campo de estudos africanos e da diáspora, trata-se de um espaço importante para apreender como o regime de segregação racial da África do Sul, denominado como Apartheid, implantado em 1948, foi percebido pela revista, e como tais leituras se adequam a mudanças na compreensão do lugar do Brasil nas relações internacionais.