bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients with HPV‐associated oropharyngeal head and neck cancer have higher rates of weight loss and increased supportive needs
Authors: Brown Teresa E.
Published: December 2019

This editorial discusses the new evidence coming to light that patients with HPV‐associated head and neck cancer are at increased risk of nutritional decline during treatment, with increased weight loss and higher need for tube feeding. Due to the anticipated epidemic of this particular disease, there is an ongoing need for research to ensure nutrition care outcomes and supportive care needs are optimised in this sub group, which will improve clinical outcomes and enhance patient quality of life.
Investigation of salmon calcitonin in regulating fibrosis‐related molecule production and cell‐substrate adhesion in frozen shoulder synovial/capsular fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Rui , Deng Haiquan , Hou Jingyi , Li Weiping , Zhang Congda , Yu Menglei , Tang Yiyong , Li Qingyue , Li Fangqi , Song Bin , Zhang Zhengzheng , Jiang Chuan , Shen Huiyong
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of salmon calcitonin (sCT) on improving fibrosis‐related indicators in frozen shoulder synovial/capsular fibroblasts (SCFs) and detect the potential downstream pathway. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and cell‐substrate adhesion assays were used to measure alterations in fibrosis‐related molecule expression and the cell adhesion ability of frozen shoulder SCFs after treatment with range concentrations of sCT. The presence of calcitonin receptors (CTRs) in shoulder joint synovial/capsular tissue samples was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The downstream pathways of sCT in SCFs were further explored by utilizing three classical pathway inhibitors. With the addition of sCT to the culture medium of frozen shoulder SCFs, the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of collagen type I (COL1A1), COL3A1, fibronectin 1, laminin 1, transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), and interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) showed a descending trend as the sCT concentration increased. Treatment with sCT increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and IL‐6 in a dose‐dependent manner. The enhanced adhesion ability of frozen shoulder SCFs gradually diminished with increasing concentrations of sCT. By using IHC, the CTR was detected extensively in the frozen shoulder joint synovium and capsule. Blocking the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway reversed the sCT‐mediated suppression of COL1A1 production. Blocking the PKC or protein kinase A (PKA) pathway eliminated the sCT‐induced inhibition of TGF‐β1 production. This study demonstrated that sCT effectively improved the mRNA expression of fibrosis‐related molecules and decreased the enhanced cell‐substrate adhesion ability of frozen shoulder SCFs. sCT might achieve these effects by interacting with the CTR that is expressed on the SCF surface and by activating the downstream PKC or PKA pathway.
Synthesis and Thermoresponsive Properties of Biocompatible and Biodegradable Triblock Copolymers Bearing Linear or Y‐Shaped OEG Pendants
Authors: He Xiongliang , Wang Xiaodan , Zhou Rongtao , Lu Hua , Luan Shifang , Tang Haoyu
Published: December 2019

Biocompatible and biodegradable thermoresponsive polymers are of great interest in “smart” biomedical applications. Herein, triblock copolymers (6a and 6b) comprised of hydrophobic poly(propylene glycol) (PPG) and OEGylated polypeptides bearing Y‐shaped or linear pendants are prepared by ring‐opening polymerization of reactive N‐carboxyanhydride monomers and subsequent side chain modification of polypeptides. OEGylated triblock copolymer bearing Y‐shaped (6a) or linear pendants (6b) with similar main chain length and the same amount of oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG) units are successfully prepared as verified by 1H NMR, FTIR, and GPC. CD analysis reveals that 6a with Y‐shaped OEG pendants shows thermal‐ or salt‐induced destabilization of α‐helical conformation in water. Both 6a and 6b show reversible lower critical solution temperature (LCST)‐type phase transitions in DI H2O or PBS. Incorporation of a PPG segment leads to a significant decrease of the LCST‐type cloud point temperature (Tcp). Consequently, 6a and 6b show Tcp to human body temperature at low polymer concentrations (≤0.5 mg mL−1 in PBS). Moreover, 6a and 6b show low in vitro cytotoxicity and biodegradability in the presence of proteinase K. The results indicate that the thermoresponsive properties of LCST‐type polymers can be readily tuned by constructing Y‐shaped pendants as well as incorporation of hydrophobic polymer building blocks.
Recreational Angler Attitudes and Perceptions Regarding the Use of Descending Devices in Southeast Reef Fish Fisheries
Authors: Curtis Judson M. , Tompkins Alex K. , Loftus Andrew J. , Stunz Gregory W.
Published: December 2019

Reducing discard mortality in recreational fisheries remains an important component of stock rebuilding for many reef fish species. Discard mortality for these species can be high due in part to barotrauma injury sustained during capture coupled with high catch rates, but recent advances in fish descending devices can mitigate some of these declines. Despite high survival rates with rapid recompression strategies, recreational angler opinions and perceived effectiveness of the devices are relatively unknown. This study surveyed the perceptions, opinions, and attitudes of 538 recreational anglers regarding the use of descending devices in the reef fish fisheries of the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. South Atlantic, with particular emphasis on Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus. In total, 1,074 descending devices were distributed to marine recreational anglers from North Carolina to Texas. After using the device for an average of 8 months and 15 fishing trips, recipients completed a questionnaire assessing their perceptions on the efficacy of the device. While 72% of respondents had little to no knowledge of descending devices prior to the study, 70% indicated that they preferred this release method over venting after the study. Survey respondents released over 7,000 Red Snapper and 4,000 other reef fish species with their descending devices, and 76% were likely to continue employing the device on their vessel. Eighty-nine percent of respondents believed descending Red Snapper would significantly reduce discard mortality in the recreational fishery. We discovered that recreational anglers perceive the devices to be highly useful in reducing discard mortality and are willing to employ them when releasing reef fish experiencing barotrauma. Other studies have demonstrated that these descending devices do reduce discard mortality of reef fishes, and this study indicates that recreational anglers are very willing to use them as a conservation tool.
Little Change in Functional Brain Networks Following Acute Levodopa in Drug‐Naïve Parkinson's Disease
Authors: White Robert L. , Campbell Meghan C. , Yang Dake , Shannon William , Snyder Abraham Z. , Perlmutter Joel S.
Published: December 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of levodopa on functional brain networks in Parkinson's disease.

Methods

We acquired resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging in 30 drug‐naïve participants with Parkinson's disease and 20 age‐matched healthy controls. Each participant was studied following administration of a single oral dose of either levodopa or placebo in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover design.

Results

The greatest observed differences in functional connectivity were between Parkinson's disease versus control participants, independent of pharmacologic intervention. By contrast, the effects of levodopa were much smaller and detectable only in the Parkinson's disease group. Moreover, although levodopa administration in the Parkinson's disease group measurably improved motor performance, it did not increase the similarity of functional connectivity in Parkinson's disease to the control group.

Conclusions

We found that a single, small dose of levodopa did not normalize functional connectivity in drug‐naïve Parkinson's disease. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Development and clinical implementation of semi‐automated treatment planning including 3D printable applicator holders in complex skin brachytherapy
Authors: Guthier Christian V. , Devlin Phillip M. , Harris Thomas C. , O’Farrell Desmond A. , Cormack Robert A. , Buzurovic Ivan
Published: December 2019

Purpose

High‐dose‐rate brachytherapy (HDR‐BT) is a treatment option for malignant skin diseases compared to external beam radiation therapy, HDR‐BT provides improved target coverage, better organ sparing, and has comparable treatment times. This is especially true for large clinical targets with complex topologies. To standardize and improve the quality and efficacy of the treatments, a novel streamlined treatment approach in complex skin HDR‐BT was developed and implemented. This approach consists of auto generated treatment plans and a 3D printable applicator holder (3D‐AH).

Materials and methods

The in‐house developed planning system automatically segments computed tomography simulation images (a), optimizes a treatment plan (b), and generates a model of the 3D‐AH (c). The 3D‐AH is used as an immobilization device for the flexible Freiburg flap applicator used to deliver treatment. The developed, automated planning is compared against the standard clinical plan generation process for a flat 10 × 10 cm2 field, curved fields with radii of 4, 6, and 8 cm, and a representative clinical case. The quality of the 3D print is verified via an additional CT of the flap applicator latched into the holder, followed by an automated rigid registration with the original planning CT. Finally, the methodology is implemented and tested clinically under an IRB approval.

Results

All automatically generated plans were reviewed and accepted for clinical use. For the clinical workflow, the coverage achieved at a prescription depth for the flat 4, 6, and 8 cm applicator was (100.0 ± 4.9)%, (100.0 ± 4.9)%, (96.0 ± 0.3)%, and (98.4 ± 0.3)%, respectively. For auto planning, the coverage was (99.9 ± 0.3)%, (100.0 ± 0.2)%, (100.0 ± 0.3)%, and (100.1 ± 0.2)%. For the clinical test case, the D90 for the clinical workflow and auto planning was found to be 93.5% and 100.29% of the prescribed dose, respectively. Processing of the patient's CT to generate trajectories and positions as well as the 3D model of the applicator took <5 min.

Conclusion

This workflow automates time intensive catheter digitizing and treatment planning. Compared to printing full applicators, the use of 3D‐AH reduces the complexity of the 3D prints, the amount of the material to be used, the time of 3D printing, and amount of quality assurance required. The proposed methodology improves the overall treatment plan quality in complex HDR‐BT and impact patient treatment outcomes potentially.
Fast and accurate initialization of the free‐water imaging model parameters from multi‐shell diffusion MRI
Authors: Bergmann Ørjan , Henriques Rafael , Westin Carl‐Fredrik , Pasternak Ofer
Published: December 2019

Cerebrospinal fluid partial volume effect is a known bias in the estimation of Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) parameters from diffusion MRI data. The Free‐Water Imaging model for diffusion MRI data adds a second compartment to the DTI model, which explicitly accounts for the signal contribution of extracellular free‐water, such as cerebrospinal fluid. As a result the DTI parameters obtained through the free‐water model are corrected for partial volume effects, and thus better represent tissue microstructure. In addition, the model estimates the fractional volume of free‐water, and can be used to monitor changes in the extracellular space. Under certain assumptions, the model can be estimated from single‐shell diffusion MRI data. However, by using data from multi‐shell diffusion acquisitions, these assumptions can be relaxed, and the fit becomes more robust. Nevertheless, fitting the model to multi‐shell data requires high computational cost, with a non‐linear iterative minimization, which has to be initialized close enough to the global minimum to avoid local minima and to robustly estimate the model parameters. Here we investigate the properties of the main initialization approaches that are currently being used, and suggest new fast approaches to improve the initial estimates of the model parameters. We show that our proposed approaches provide a fast and accurate initial approximation of the model parameters, which is very close to the final solution. We demonstrate that the proposed initializations improve the final outcome of non‐linear model fitting.
Efficient estimation of extreme quantiles using adaptive kriging and importance sampling
Authors: Razaaly Nassim , Crommelin Daan , Congedo Pietro Marco
Published: December 2019

This study considers an efficient method for the estimation of quantiles associated to very small levels of probability (up to O(10−9)), where the scalar performance function J is complex (eg, output of an expensive‐to‐run finite element model), under a probability measure that can be recast as a multivariate standard Gaussian law using an isoprobabilistic transformation. A surrogate‐based approach (Gaussian Processes) combined with adaptive experimental designs allows to iteratively increase the accuracy of the surrogate while keeping the overall number of J evaluations low. Direct use of Monte‐Carlo simulation even on the surrogate model being too expensive, the key idea consists in using an importance sampling method based on an isotropic‐centered Gaussian with large standard deviation permitting a cheap estimation of small quantiles based on the surrogate model. Similar to AK‐MCS as presented in the work of Schöbi et al., (2016), the surrogate is adaptively refined using a parallel infill criterion of an algorithm suitable for very small failure probability estimation. Additionally, a multi‐quantile selection approach is developed, allowing to further exploit high‐performance computing architectures. We illustrate the performances of the proposed method on several two to eight‐dimensional cases. Accurate results are obtained with less than 100 evaluations of J on the considered benchmark cases.
2,2′‐Dipyridyl diselenide: A chemoselective tool for cysteine deprotection and disulfide bond formation
Authors: Ste.Marie Emma J. , Hondal Robert J.
Published: December 2019

There are many examples of bioactive, disulfide‐rich peptides and proteins whose biological activity relies on proper disulfide connectivity. Regioselective disulfide bond formation is a strategy for the synthesis of these bioactive peptides, but many of these methods suffer from a lack of orthogonality between pairs of protected cysteine (Cys) residues, efficiency, and high yields. Here, we show the utilization of 2,2′‐dipyridyl diselenide (PySeSePy) as a chemical tool for the removal of Cys‐protecting groups and regioselective formation of disulfide bonds in peptides. We found that peptides containing either Cys(Mob) or Cys(Acm) groups treated with PySeSePy in trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) (with or without triisopropylsilane (TIS) were converted to Cys‐S–SePy adducts at 37 °C and various incubation times. This novel Cys‐S–SePy adduct is able to be chemoselectively reduced by five‐fold excess ascorbate at pH 4.5, a condition that should spare already installed peptide disulfide bonds from reduction. This chemoselective reduction by ascorbate will undoubtedly find utility in numerous biotechnological applications. We applied our new chemistry to the iodine‐free synthesis of the human intestinal hormone guanylin, which contains two disulfide bonds. While we originally envisioned using ascorbate to chemoselectively reduce one of the formed Cys‐S–SePy adducts to catalyze disulfide bond formation, we found that when pairs of Cys(Acm) residues were treated with PySeSePy in TFA, the second disulfide bond formed spontaneously. Spontaneous formation of the second disulfide is most likely driven by the formation of the thermodynamically favored diselenide (PySeSePy) from the two Cys‐S–SePy adducts. Thus, we have developed a one‐pot method for concomitant deprotection and disulfide bond formation of Cys(Acm) pairs in the presence of an existing disulfide bond.
TKP, a serine protease extracted from Trichosanthes kirilowii, inhibits the migration and invasion of colorectal adenocarcinoma cells by targeting Wnt/β‐catenin and Hedgehog/Gli1 signalings
Authors: Sun Xiaomei , Xu Xiaobo , Song Li
Published: December 2019

Trichosanthes kirilowii, which is a type of Liana from cucurbitaceous family, possesses many bioactive constituents and therefore has multifarious pharmacological functions. TKP, which is a serine protease extracted from the fruit of Trichosanthes kirilowii, has been reported to possess potential anticancer activity. However, the effects of TKP on cancer cell migration and invasion are still unknown. Here, we reported that TKP could inhibit the migration and invasion abilities of colorectal cancer cells. In addition, the mRNA, protein expression levels, and activities of migration and invasion‐related proteins MMP2 and MMP9 were decreased in TKP‐treated cells. Mechanistically, TKP treatment repressed Wnt/β‐catenin and Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling cascades. However, the addition of lithium chloride or the transfection of plasmid pcDNA3.1‐V5‐HisA‐Gli1 reversed the impacts of TKP on MMP2, MMP9, cell migration, and invasion. These results indicated that TKP suppressed the migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells through blocking Wnt/β‐catenin and Hedgehog/Gli1 pathways‐mediated MMP2 and MMP9.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Host Lipid Metabolism: An Eye on Causation and Connection
Authors: Wang Kai , Liang Xianyi , Pang Yanli , Jiang Changtao
Published: December 2019

Lipid‐metabolism‐related disorders are increasingly prevalent and represent growing challenges in terms of prevention and treatment due to their complex and multifactorial pathogenesis. Recently, mounting evidence has suggested that gut microbiota play a crucial role in the regulation of lipid metabolism, which affects the development of lipid‐metabolism‐related disorders. Furthermore, increasingly precise mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between gut microbiota and lipid metabolism have been revealed and may largely deepen the understanding of microbiome. Herein, this paper reviews the relationship between microbiome and host lipid metabolism. First, the correlation between gut microbiota and different lipid metabolism disorders is described. Several causal microbes involved in pathogenesis and disease alleviation are also listed and introduced. Then, the molecular mechanisms involved in microbiome–host crosstalk are briefly discussed. Finally, ceramide, a critical metabolite that connects microbial signals to distal organs, is introduced as the messenger in organ communication.
Carbon Dots–Implanted Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanosheets for Photocatalysis: Simultaneously Manipulating Carrier Transport in Inter‐ and Intralayers
Authors: Han Mei , Lu Siyu , Qi Fei , Zhu Shoujun , Sun Haizhu , Yang Bai
Published: December 2019

Carbon dots (CDs) present unique photoinduced charge transfer and reservoir properties, showing promising application potential in photocatalysis. The in situ preparation of CDs in a graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) matrix provides not only a new approach for electronic structure modulation and heterostructure construction but also an effective way to improve their photocatalytic performance. However, incorporating CDs into ultrathin g‐C3N4 remains a challenge. Moreover, simultaneously tuning their carrier transport in inter‐ and intralayers is difficult but significant for their application as efficient photocatalysts. Herein, an unprecedented Se‐chaperoned thermal polymerization method for the synthesis of zero‐dimensional CD‐implanted g‐C3N4 nanosheets (CCNS) is reported. The CCNS simultaneously facilitate carrier transport and suppress recombination because of the seamless bonding heterostructure of CDs within the in‐plane domains of the g‐C3N4 nanosheets. Accordingly, the photocatalytic rates of water splitting for H2 evolution and CO2 reduction are enhanced 3.1 and 4.1 times, respectively. In addition, the photocatalytic RhB degradation efficiency dramatically increases 18 times. This work presents a promising solution to solving the current worldwide energy shortage and environmental pollution issues.
Effect of initial and final curing on performance of concrete in hot and arid climates
Authors: Al‐Nuaimi Nasser , Irshidat Mohammad R. , Salim Soheb
Published: December 2019

The effect of initial and final curing conditions of ordinary concrete cast in regions with harsh environmental conditions on the compressive strength and microstructure of concrete is investigated in this research. More than 100 concrete specimens were cast and tested to study the effect of different parameters such as initial curing conditions, final curing durations, outdoor sun exposure, and casting conditions. The results reflect the crucial of the nurturing of concrete after casting in the first 48 hr (initial curing) in increasing its compressive strength, no matter which environment the concrete is exposed to in the later stages of its life. The compressive strength of concrete decreased with decreasing the final curing period regardless of the exposure condition. The degradation in the strength was higher in the case of sun exposure than that of Lab exposure. The maximum degradation in the compressive strength of concrete specimens due to the combined effect of adverse initial and final curing conditions reach up to 68% in the case of outdoor initial curing and zero‐day final moist curing. Scanning electron microscopy images and chemical analysis indicate that excessive amount of well‐formed and dense clusters of C─S─H was formulated as the moist curing duration increases.
The miRNA‐149‐5p/MyD88 axis is responsible for ursolic acid‐mediated attenuation of the stemness and chemoresistance of non‐small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Chen Quanfang , Luo Jin , Wu Cong , Lu Huasong , Cai Shuangqi , Bao Chongxi , Liu Dongmei , Kong Jinliang
Published: December 2019

Although the inhibitory roles of ursolic acid (UA) have been established in various tumors, its effects on the stemness of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells are still unclear. Here, we constructed NSCLC cells with paclitaxel resistance (A549‐PR) and showed that A549‐PR exhibited a remarkably stronger stemness than the parental A549 cells, which is evident by the increase of spheroid formation capacity, stemness marker expression, and ALDH1 activity. Additionally, UA significantly reduced the stemness and paclitaxel resistance of A549‐PR cells. Mechanistic investigations revealed that UA inhibited the miR‐149‐5p/MyD88 signaling, which is responsible for UA‐mediated effects on the stemness of A549‐PR cells. Notably, miR‐149‐5p/MyD88 axis promoted the stemness of A549 cells, while inhibition of this axis attenuated the stemness of A549‐PR cells. Therefore, these results suggest that UA could attenuate the stemness and chemoresistance of NSCLC cells through targeting miR‐149‐5p/MyD88 axis.
The need for green and atmospheric water governance
Authors: te Wierik Sofie A. , Gupta Joyeeta , Cammeraat Erik L. H. , Artzy‐Randrup Yael A.
Published: December 2019

A review of the literature on water governance reveals that most studies focus on blue water governance; while there is some literature on green and atmospheric water, explicit literature on how to govern green and atmospheric water is lacking. Hence, this paper addresses the question: What are the arguments for governing green and atmospheric water? In order to address this question, we have undertaken a scoping analysis of the literature on green and atmospheric water. We conclude that water governance must proactively address green and atmospheric water since: (a) blue water represents only a part of the available fresh water; (b) blue river basins represent only a subset of the wider systemic nature of water; (c) land use change has significant impacts on various water flows, which all may need to be governed; (d) climate variability and change influences blue, green, and atmospheric water availability; (e) an understanding of the socio‐ecological uses of the different colors of water is critical for a more optimal and legitimate governance of water; (f) new water technologies make it increasingly possible to modify the use of green and atmospheric water; and (g) global trade infrastructures pressurize local green water resources. Neglecting the need for explicit governance of green and atmospheric water could create new forms of “water grabbing” that would impact water availability beyond the basin scale.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Water Governance

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems
The Scale‐Up of the Global Surgical Workforce: Can Estimates be Achieved by 2030?
Authors: Daniels Kimberly M. , Riesel Johanna N. , Verguet Stéphane , Meara John G. , Shrime Mark G.
Published: December 2019

Background

The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery showed that countries with surgeon, anesthetist, and obstetrician (SAO) densities of 20–40 SAO/100,000 population were associated with improved health outcomes and recommended a global surgical workforce scale‐up by 2030. Whether countries would be able to achieve such scale‐up efforts in that time‐frame is unknown.

Methods

A differential equation model was used to estimate the growth rate and number of SAO necessary for each country to reach the aforementioned SAO densities. Workforce data from Mexico and India were used to estimate achievable rates of SAO scale‐up for middle‐ and low‐income countries, respectively. Secular surgical growth rates were estimated to demonstrate what might occur without dedicated scale‐up efforts.

Results

To reach at least 20 SAO/100,000 population in all countries by 2030, over 808 thousand SAO need to be trained by 2030. To reach at least 40 SAO/100,000 population, over 2.1 million SAO need to be trained. If countries adopt a scale‐up rate similar to Mexico's previously achieved rate of scale‐up, 66% of countries would have 20 SAO/100,000 population by 2030. If countries adopt a scale‐up rate similar to India's previously achieved rate of scale‐up, 56% would have 20 SAO/100,000 population by 2030.

Conclusion

With dedicated efforts in surgical workforce scale‐up, significant gains in SAO density can be made worldwide. However, without intervention, many countries are unlikely to improve their current workforce densities. Investments in workforce scale‐up are likely to yield workforce gains that mirror current resource states.
Uncertainty quantification on a spatial Markov-chain model for the progression of skin cancer
Authors: Vermolen Fred , Pölönen Ilkka
Published: December 2019

A spatial Markov-chain model is formulated for the progression of skin cancer. The model is based on the division of the computational domain into nodal points, that can be in a binary state: either in ‘cancer state’ or in ‘non-cancer state’. The model assigns probabilities for the non-reversible transition from ‘non-cancer’ state to the ‘cancer state’ that depend on the states of the neighbouring nodes. The likelihood of transition further depends on the life burden intensity of the UV-rays that the skin is exposed to. The probabilistic nature of the process and the uncertainty in the input data is assessed by the use of Monte Carlo simulations. A good fit between experiments on mice and our model has been obtained.
Correction to: Evaluation of the efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL9 and Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 on aspects of common cold infections in children attending day care: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
Authors: Lazou Ahrén Irini , Berggren Anna , Teixeira Cristina , Martinsson Niskanen Titti , Larsson Niklas
Published: December 2019

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. A number in Table 6 has been corrected.
Steady state rheology of homogeneous and inhomogeneous cohesive granular materials
Authors: Shi Hao , Roy Sudeshna , Weinhart Thomas , Magnanimo Vanessa , Luding Stefan
Published: December 2019

This paper aims to understand the effect of different particle/contact properties like friction, softness and cohesion on the compression/dilation of sheared granular materials. We focus on the local volume fraction in steady state of various non-cohesive, dry cohesive and moderate to strong wet cohesive, frictionless-to-frictional soft granular materials. The results from (1) an inhomogeneous, slowly sheared split-bottom ring shear cell and (2) a homogeneous, stress-controlled simple shear box with periodic boundaries are compared. The steady state volume fractions agree between the two geometries for a wide range of particle properties. While increasing inter-particle friction systematically leads to decreasing volume fractions, the inter-particle cohesion causes two opposing effects. With increasing strength of cohesion, we report an enhancement of the effect of contact friction i.e. even smaller volume fraction. However, for soft granular materials, strong cohesion causes an increase in volume fraction due to significant attractive forces causing larger deformations, not visible for stiff particles. This behaviour is condensed into a particle friction—Bond number phase diagram, which can be used to predict non-monotonic relative sample dilation/compression.
Romosozumab: a novel bone anabolic treatment option for osteoporosis?
Authors: Kerschan-Schindl Katharina
Published: December 2019

Research into the drug romosozumab began with the investigation of patients with excess bone formation. The understanding of the wingless-type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site (Wnt) signaling pathway in bone metabolism identified the negative regulator of bone mass sclerostin as a potential target for the treatment of osteoporosis. Preclinical studies confirmed this idea because they showed that sclerostin antibodies have the potential to increase bone formation. Biochemical analyses of clinical studies showed a significant increase in bone formation markers, which then slowly decreased within a year. This was accompanied by a particularly initially pronounced decrease in bone resorption. This dual mechanism of action led to an increase in bone mineral density and a significant reduction in fracture risk. Clinical vertebral fractures decreased by between 28 and 36%, nonvertebral fractures shown in a post hoc analysis by 42%. Romosozumab is administered once a month in the form of two injections. At the puncture site, reactions occur in about 5%. The most significant side effects are cardiovascular. In phase III studies, the number of serious cardiovascular complications was not significantly, albeit numerically, higher than in the control group. In Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, and the USA, osteoporosis patients at a high risk of fracture may already be treated with romosozumab (Evenity). Approval in the European Union was granted by 2019-12-12.
Broadly neutralizing antibodies and vaccine design against HIV-1 infection
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhang Linqi
Published: December 2019

Remarkable progress has been achieved for prophylactic and therapeutic interventions against human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1) through antiretroviral therapy. However, vaccine development has remained challenging. Recent discoveries in broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs) has led to the development of multiple novel vaccine approaches for inducing bNAbs-like antibody response. Structural and dynamic studies revealed several vulnerable sites and states of the HIV-1 envelop glycoprotein (Env) during infection. Our review aims to highlight these discoveries and rejuvenate our endeavor in HIV-1 vaccine design and development.
Integrating Patient-Specific Electrocardiogram Signals and Image-Based Computational Fluid Dynamics Method to Analyze Coronary Blood Flow in Patients during Cardiac Arrhythmias
Authors: Chou Szu-Hsien , Lin Kuan-Yu , Chen Zhen-Ye , Juan Chun-Jung , Ho Chien-Yi , Shih Tzu-Ching
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study was to use the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, patient-specific electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, and computed tomography three-dimensional image reconstruction technique to investigate the blood flow in coronary arteries during cardiac arrhythmia.

Methods

Two patients with premature ventricular contraction-type cardiac arrhythmia and one with atrial fibrillation-type cardiac arrhythmia were investigated. The inlet velocity of the coronary artery in simulation was applied with the measured velocity profile of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) from the Doppler echocardiography. The measured patient central aortic blood pressure waveform was employed for the coronary artery outlet in simulation. The no-slip boundary condition was applied to the arterial wall.

Results

For the patient with irregular cardiac rhythms (Case I), the coronary blood flow rate under the shortened and lengthened cardiac rhythms were 0.66 and 0.96 mL/s, respectively. In Case II, the maximum velocity at the LVOT under a normal heartbeat was found to be 101 cm/s, whereas the average value was 73 cm/s. In Case III, the patient was also diagnosed with a congenital stenosis problem at the myocardial bridge (MCB) at the LAD. The measured blood flow rate at the MCB of the LAD for the three heartbeats in Case III was found to be 0.68, 1.08, and 1.14 mL/s.

Conclusion

The integration of patient-specific ECG signals and image-based CFD methods can clearly analyze hemodynamic information for patients during cardiac arrhythmia. The cardiac arrhythmia can reduce the blood flow in the coronary arteries.
Smart Intra-query Fault Tolerance for Massive Parallel Processing Databases
Authors: Ji Yunhong , Chai Yunpeng , Zhou Xuan , Ren Lipeng , Qin Yajie
Published: December 2019

Intra-query fault tolerance has increasingly been a concern for online analytical processing, as more and more enterprises migrate data analytical systems from mainframes to commodity computers. Most massive parallel processing (MPP) databases do not support intra-query fault tolerance. They may suffer from prolonged query latency when running on unreliable commodity clusters. While SQL-on-Hadoop systems can utilize the fault tolerance support of low-level frameworks, such as MapReduce and Spark, their cost-effectiveness is not always acceptable. In this paper, we propose a smart intra-query fault tolerance (SIFT) mechanism for MPP databases. SIFT achieves fault tolerance by performing checkpointing, i.e., materializing intermediate results of selected operators. Different from existing approaches, SIFT aims at promoting query success rate within a given time. To achieve its goal, it needs to: (1) minimize query rerunning time after encountering failures and (2) introduce as less checkpointing overhead as possible. To evaluate SIFT in real-world MPP database systems, we implemented it in Greenplum. The experimental results indicate that it can improve success rate of query processing effectively, especially when working with unreliable hardware.
Swelling performance of sodium polyacrylate and poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) potassium salt
Authors: Mahon Ruissein , Balogun Yakubu , Oluyemi Gbenga , Njuguna James
Published: December 2019

The application of superabsorbent polymer hydrogels is gaining much research attention. Industrial applications include agriculture, environmental engineering, biomedical and tissue engineering, oilfield, construction and electrical products, personal care products, and wastewater treatment. In this study, the swelling performance and adsorption kinetics of two commercial superabsorbent polymer hydrogels were evaluated based upon their stimuli response to pH and salinity at varying temperature and reaction time periods. Characterisation and evaluation of the materials were performed using analytical techniques—optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, and the gravimetric method. Experimental results show that reaction conditions strongly influence the swelling performance of the superabsorbent polymer hydrogels considered in this study. Generally, increasing pH and salinity concentration led to a significant decline in the swelling performance of both superabsorbent polymer hydrogels. An optimal temperature range between 50 and 75 °C was considered appropriate based on swell tests performed between 25 c to 100 °C over 2-, 4- and 6-h time periods. These findings serve as a guideline for material technologist and field engineers in the use of superabsorbent polymer hydrogels for a wide range of applications. The study results provide evidence that the two superabsorbent polymer hydrogels can be used for petroleum fraction-saline water emulsions separation, among other applications.

Graphic abstract

Highlights

The swelling performance of the two superabsorbent polymer hydrogels experimentally studied showed a maximum absorbency in the range of 270 to 300g/g.

Thermal gravimetric analysis curves show that both superabsorbent polymer hydrogels are stable at high temperatures.

Commercially available superabsorbent polymer hydrogels can be used in industrial water absorption applications.
Support and development of small and new firms in rural areas: a case study of three regional initiatives
Authors: Klofsten Magnus , Norrman Charlotte , Cadorin Eduardo , Löfsten Hans
Published: December 2019

This paper is based on qualitative analysis and addresses the important topic of small business entrepreneurialism in rural areas and its special conditions and needs. Our aim is to present examples of and suggestions for how to encourage firm start-ups and the continuation possibly also the development and growth of existing firms. The paper is based on three cases that illustrate (1) challenges in the support system in rural areas, (2) various forms of support that could be used in rural areas, and (3) expectations that are eligible to put upon support activities designed for rural areas. The main findings are that (1) that successful support of rural businesses requires a critical mass of regional entrepreneurs, firms, and support actors, (2) diversity is critical, and the various actors must be coordinated to carry out the desired measures effectively, (3) expectations for growth and orientation of the firms must be realistic because broad support is more important than targeted support, and (4) we were able to show that a cross-boundary collaborative work culture that avoids both thought silos and business silos and places no value on prestige should pervade all areas of business support.
Validation of the Arabic and Hebrew versions of the Utrecht‐Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U‐MICS)
Authors: Crocetti Elisabetta , Benish‐Weisman Maya , McDonald Kristina L.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

The Utrecht‐Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U‐MICS; Crocetti, Rubini, & Meeus, 2008) is a self‐report scale that can be applied to measure three identity processes (commitment, in‐depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment) in specific domains. The current study was aimed at testing the applicability of the U‐MICS in two new languages: Arabic and Hebrew. Specifically, we (a) tested the fit of the three‐factor structure; (b) examined measurement invariance of the Arabic and Hebrew versions; and (c) investigated convergent validity by relating the identity processes (commitment, in‐depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment) to multiple indicators of psychosocial adjustment (self‐esteem, prosocial behaviors, and delinquency).

Methods

Participants were 314 Arab and 386 Jewish adolescents living in Israel (N = 770; 54.7% girls; Mage = 13.79, SDage = 0.51, age‐range = 12–15). Assessments of identity processes, self‐esteem, and delinquency were collected using self‐report measures, while prosocial behaviors were measured through peer nominations.

Results

The results highlighted that (a) the three‐factor model fit the data excellently in the total sample as well as in Arab and Jewish samples; (b) hierarchical levels of measurement invariance (configural, metric, and scalar), as well as invariance of covariances, could be clearly established; and (c) convergent validity was demonstrated by showing meaningful associations between identity processes and indicators of psychosocial functioning.

Conclusions

This study indicates that the U‐MICS is a reliable instrument for assessing identity processes in Arabic and Hebrew‐speaking adolescents.
REALIZING REALIZABILITY RESULTS WITH CLASSICAL CONSTRUCTIONS
Authors: KARAGILA ASAF
Published: December 2019

J. L. Krivine developed a new method based on realizability to construct models of set theory where the axiom of choice fails. We attempt to recreate his results in classical settings, i.e., symmetric extensions. We also provide a new condition for preserving well ordered, and other particular type of choice, in the general settings of symmetric extensions.
Who Will Save the Olive Tree?: C-443/18,Commission v Italy
Authors: PAGANO Mario
Published: December 2019

In Xylella II the CJEU was called upon to assess whether Italy had failed to meet the obligations stemming from the Plant Health Directive and Decision 2015/789/EU, aiming to inhibit the spread of the plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa in Apulia (Southern Italy). In carrying out its review, the Court relied to a large extent on the scientific evidence submitted by the Commission. It found that the Member State had failed to properly remove infected plants and monitor the presence of the pathogen in the 20km strip dividing the infected zone from the buffer zone. However, the Court also confirmed that in proceedings brought under Article 258, the burden of proof lies on the Commission, which may not rely on any presumption to demonstrate the State’s failure to meet EU law obligations. The Italian authorities are now expected to comply with the Court’s ruling, as financial sanctions may be imposed at a later stage.
Signals, Signs and Syndromes: Tracing [Digital] Transformations in European Health Security
Authors: ROBERTS Stephen L
Published: December 2019

This article traces the ascent of new digital surveillance practices for European health security in an era of heightened global pandemic vigilance. In doing so, the article demonstrates how the confluence of evolving processes of digitisation and production of new digital data sources have enabled EU health security agents in recent years to enhance infectious disease surveillance through novel digitised practices of epidemic intelligence. Subsequently, the article thus argues that the centralisation of these new epidemic intelligence technologies to the core of EU health security initiatives has been foundational to the ascent of a new blended health surveillance practice operating across the EU, which amalgamates the digitised surface alerts of these new big data surveillance technologies with the long-established and traditional disease surveillance legacies of EU Member States. By utilising the concept of surface knowledge in relation to the ascent of these European epidemic intelligence practices, this article demonstrates the key epistemic and methodological shifts which occur in the production of knowledge, alerts and signals for accelerated infectious disease surveillance and the governing of public health risks within the EU.
Predicting Italian Wine Quality from Weather Data and Expert Ratings
Authors: Corsi Alessandro , Ashenfelter Orley
Published: December 2019

In this paper we estimate how a variety of subjective measures of quality taken from the published opinions of several experts on Italian wines (Barolo and Barbaresco) are determined by the weather conditions during the relevant season, in order to assess their reliability. Since these measures of quality are only ordinal, we estimate their determinants using an ordered probit model. The method provides measures of the determinants of vintage quality ratings and suggestions on the reliability of each expert. (JEL Classifications: D12, Q11, Q13)
Tipon: Insight into Inka Hydraulic Engineering Practice
Authors: Ortloff Charles R.
Published: December 2019

The site of Tipon, Peru, located about 30 km east of Cuzco, provides an example of Inka knowledge of hydraulic engineering and the civil engineering practices used in the design and operation of the complex water system. The inhabitants of Tipon used river- and spring-sourced surface and subterranean channels to convey, distribute, and drain water to and from multiple agricultural platforms, reservoirs, and urban ceremonial centers. Intricate intersecting surface and subterranean channel systems that combined and regulated water flows from different sources controlled the water to and drainage from 13 terraced agricultural platforms. This design served to maintain different ground moisture levels to sustain specialty crops. Within the site are fountains and multiple water display features requiring sophisticated hydraulic engineering necessary for aesthetic displays. To understand the technology used by the Inka to design the water systems at Tipon, I used computational fluid dynamics methodology and modern hydraulic engineering theory. I made computer models of key elements of the Principal Fountain and the Main Aqueduct to reproduce water flow patterns in these features as intended by Inka engineers’ designs and calculations. The Inka hydraulic technology used complex engineering principles similar to those in modern civil engineering practice centuries ahead of their formal discovery in Western hydraulic science.
Arquitectura de la aldea de Palo Blanco (ca. 0–1000 dC), departamento de Tinogasta, Catamarca, Argentina
Authors: Ratto Norma , Bonomo Néstor , Osella Ana
Published: December 2019

Presentamos la configuración del espacio arquitectónico de la aldea de Palo Blanco (APB) emplazada en el Valle de Fiambalá (departamento de Tinogasta, Catamarca, Argentina) y habitada entre los siglos uno y diez de la era. Articulamos información de segundo y primer orden, ya que los resultados de las intervenciones realizadas en la década de 1960 fueron sumados a los recientes trabajos arqueogeofísicos, al igual que la evidencia material y procesos de formación de sitio. Caracterizamos el espacio arquitectónico de la APB a lo largo de sus 1.000 años de vida, donde algunas características distintivas fueron: (1) el uso de la técnica constructiva de tierra encofrada o tapial; (2) la construcción de estructuras de formas regulares y ángulos rectos; (3) el encierre de los recintos con un muro perimetral, cuya superficie aumenta en función del tiempo; y (4) la ausencia de estructuras con función ceremonial (montículos, plataformas). Otros rasgos, como los recintos-pasillos en forma de L, se perdieron en el tiempo ya que solo se registraron en viviendas habitadas entre los siglos uno y cinco. También refutamos la existencia de un tipo arquitectónico denominado trazado disperso planeado tipo Saujil y discutimos las implicancias sociopolíticas de la rutinización de las prácticas arquitectónicas en el tiempo.