bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status epilepticus due to fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency caused by FBP1 gene mutation
Authors: Mei Shiyue , Ma Chao , Cheng Yibing , Qian Suyun , Jin Zhipeng
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase) deficiency is a rare inherited disorder in gluconeogenesis, characterized by hypoglycemia, ketonuria, metabolic acidosis and convulsions.

Case presentation

We describe two brothers with FBPase deficiency. The proband developed s evere hypoglycemia and progressed to status epilepticus, and the brother showed slightly hypoglycemia with a good prognosis. Whole exome sequencing (WES) identified compound heterozygous variants [c.333+1_333+2delinsTC and c.490G>A (p.Gly164Ser)] in fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase 1 gene in the two brothers, which were inherited from the father and the mother, respectively.

Conclusion

Genetic analysis provided a solid basis for a definite diagnosis and the determination of precision therapies for the patient.
A Narrative Review of Musculoskeletal Impairments Associated With Nonspecific Chronic Pelvic Pain
Authors: Harris‐Hayes Marcie , Spitznagle Theresa , Probst Daniel , Foster Stefanie N. , Prather Heidi
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this narrative review is to present the evidence relating to musculoskeletal impairments found in people with nonspecific chronic pelvic pain (CPP). The musculoskeletal impairments assessed in this review include pelvic floor muscle: performance, resting state, strength, activation, posture and movement patterns. A search was performed systematically using PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science databases from 1998 to 2018 to identify studies reporting the relationship between nonspecific CPP and musculoskeletal impairments of the hip, pelvis, and trunk. The search resulted in 2106 articles that were screened by two authors. Remaining articles were screened by an additional two authors for inclusion in this review. Thirty‐one articles remained after initial screening. Full‐text publications were reviewed and an additional 25 articles were excluded. Six additional articles were located through review of the reference lists of included articles. The final review included 12 publications. Seven of these studies were cross‐sectional cohorts or case‐control comparing patients with CPP to asymptomatic controls. The level of evidence for the studies included in this review was low at Levels 4 and 5. We were unable to draw clear conclusions regarding the relationships of musculoskeletal impairments and CPP because validity and use of terms and assessments were inconsistent. Further research is needed with standardized definitions and measurements to better understand the musculoskeletal system as it relates to nonspecific CPP.
Effects of graded porous structure on local strain distribution under compression in silicone rubber
Authors: Yoshimura Keijiro , Nakano Kazunori , Nishiwaki Takeshi , Iwama Yuki , Murata Masanobu
Published: June 2019

Silicone rubber samples with gradually changing pore sizes within the range of 70–610 μm are produced using an improved spacer method. The samples are scanned using an X‐ray computed tomography to evaluate their graded structure as compared to uniform rubber. A compressive test reveals that graded porous silicone rubber has characteristic stress–strain curves whose slope changes within a specific strain range depending on the porous structure. Analysis results of local strain based on a digital image correlation of the graded porous silicone rubber under compression demonstrate that the characteristic stress–strain properties are caused by shifts in the main deformation region in the graded structure. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1033–1042
Effectivenesss of ivacaftor in severe cystic fibrosis patients and non‐G551D gating mutations
Authors: Salvatore Donatello , Carnovale Vincenzo , Iacotucci Paola , Braggion Cesare , Castellani Carlo , Cimino Giuseppe , Colangelo Carmela , Francalanci Michela , Leonetti Giuseppina , Lucidi Vincenzina , Manca Antonio , Vitullo Pamela , Ferrara Nicola
Published: June 2019

Background

Ivacaftor is a significant innovation in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) with gating mutations. A substantial percentage of patients with CF have severe lung involvement, but these patients are usually excluded from phase III clinical trials. Thus, the effectiveness of ivacaftor in this population has not been fully determined.

Methods

Data were collected from Italian CF centers with patients enrolled in an ivacaftor compassionate use programme (percent predicted [pp] forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1] < 40%, or on lung transplant waiting list, or with a fast worsening trend of lung function). Data were collected for 1 year before and 1 year after ivacaftor commencement.

Results

Thirteen patients received ivacaftor for a median of 320 days. Mean (SD) ppFEV1 increased from 35.1% (14.3%) before treatment to 46.6% (18.8%) after 12 months of treatment (absolute increase 11.5%, relative increase 32.8%). Mean distance of the 6‐minute walking test improved significantly, from 535.1 m before to 611.6 m after 12 months of treatment (P = .002). The number of pulmonary exacerbations decreased significantly, from 57 during the year before ivacaftor to 28 in the year following ivacaftor (P = .0048). Five of the 13 patients (38.5%) had no exacerbations during the 12 months after starting ivacaftor. Median weight increased significantly, from 52.7 kg to 55.6 kg (P = .0031). Mean (SD) sweat chloride concentration decreased significantly, from 99.5 (22.8) mmol/L to 39.3 (15.8) mmol/L (P < .0001). No safety concerns were registered.

Conclusions

Ivacaftor was safe and effective in patients with CF with severe lung disease and non‐G551D gating mutations.
Prediction of migratory routes of the invasive fall armyworm in eastern China using a trajectory analytical approach
Authors: Li Xi‐Jie , Wu Ming‐Fei , Ma Jian , Gao Bo‐Ya , Wu Qiu‐Lin , Chen Ai‐Dong , Liu Jie , Jiang Yu‐Ying , Zhai Bao‐Ping , Early Regan , Chapman Jason W , Hu Gao
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The fall armyworm (FAW), an invasive pest from the Americas, is rapidly spreading through the Old World, and has recently invaded the Indochinese Peninsula and southern China. In the Americas, FAW migrates from winter‐breeding areas in the south into summer‐breeding areas throughout North America where it is a major pest of corn. Asian populations are also likely to evolve migrations into the corn‐producing regions of eastern China, where they will pose a serious threat to food security.

RESULTS

To evaluate the invasion risk in eastern China, the rate of expansion and future migratory range was modelled by a trajectory simulation approach, combined with flight behavior and meteorological data. Our results predict that FAW will migrate from its new year‐round breeding regions into the two main corn‐producing regions of eastern China (Huang‐Huai‐Hai Summer Corn and Northeast Spring Corn Regions), via two pathways. The western pathway originates in Myanmar and Yunnan, and FAW will take four migration steps (i.e. four generations) to reach the Huang‐Huai‐Hai Region by July. Migration along the eastern pathway from Indochina and southern China progresses faster, with FAW reaching the Huang‐Huai‐Hai Region in three steps by June and reaching the Northeast Spring Region in July.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that there is a high risk that FAW will invade the major corn‐producing areas of eastern China via two migration pathways, and cause significant impacts to agricultural productivity. Information on migration pathways and timings can be used to inform integrated pest management strategies for this emerging pest. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Improvements to the Escalation with Overdose Control design and a comparison with the restricted Continual Reassessment Method
Authors: Ji Lingyun , Lewinger Juan Pablo , Krailo Mark , Groshen Susan , Conti David V. , Asgharzadeh Shahab , Sposto Richard
Published: June 2019

The Escalation with Overdose Control (EWOC) design for cancer dose finding clinical trials is a variation of the Continual Reassessment Method (CRM) that was proposed to overcome the limitation of the original CRM of exposing patients to high toxic doses. The properties of EWOC have been studied to some extent, but some aspects of the design are not well studied, and its performance is not fully understood. Comparisons of the EWOC design to the most commonly used modified CRM designs have not yet been performed, and the advantages of EWOC over the modified CRM designs are unclear.

In this paper, we assess the properties of the EWOC design and of the restricted CRM and some variations of these designs. We show that EWOC has several weaknesses that CRM does not have that make it impractical to use in its original formulation. We propose modified EWOC designs that address some of the weaknesses and that have some desirable statistical properties compared with the original EWOC design, the restricted CRM design, and the 3 + 3 design. However, their statistical properties are sensitive to correct specification of the prior distribution of their parameters and hence nevertheless will need to be used with some caution. The restricted CRM design is shown to have more stable performance across a wider family of dose‐toxicity curves than EWOC and therefore may be a preferable general choice in cancer clinical research.
Cloud physics from space
Authors: Stephens Graeme L. , Christensen Matthew , Andrews Timothy , Haywood James , Malavelle Florent F. , Suzuki Kentaroh , Jing Xianwen , Lebsock Mathew , Li Jui‐Lin F. , Takahashi Hanii , Sy Ousmane
Published: June 2019

A review of the progression of cloud physics from a subdiscipline of meteorology into the global science it is today is described. The discussion briefly touches on the important post‐war contributions of three key individuals who were instrumental in developing cloud physics into a global science. These contributions came on the heels of the post‐war weather modification efforts that influenced much of the early development of cloud physics. The review is centred on the properties of warm clouds primarily to limit the scope of the article and the connection between the early contributions to cloud physics and the current vexing problem of aerosol effects on cloud albedo is underlined. Progress toward estimating cloud properties from space and insights on warm cloud processes are described. Measurements of selected cloud properties, such as cloud liquid water path are now mature enough that multi‐decadal time series of these properties exist and this climatology is used to compare to analogous low‐cloud properties taken from global climate models. The too‐wet (and thus too bright) and the too‐dreary biases of models are called out underscoring the challenges we still face in representing warm clouds in Earth system models. We also provide strategies for using observations to constrain the indirect radiative forcing of the climate system.
Reliability inference for VGA adapter from dual suppliers based on contaminated type‐I interval‐censored data
Authors: Tsai Tzong‐Ru , Ng Hon Keung Tony , Pham Hoang , Lio Yuhlong , Chiang Jyun‐You
Published: June 2019

Type‐I interval‐censoring scheme only documents the number of failed units within two prespecified consecutive exam times at the larger time point after putting all units on test at the initial time schedule. It is challenging to use the collected information from type‐I interval‐censoring scheme to evaluate the reliability of unit when not all admitted units are operated or tested at the same initial time and a majority of units are randomly selected to replace the failed test units at unrecorded time points. Moreover, the lifetime distribution of all pooled units from dual resources usually follows a mixture distribution. To overcome these two problems, a two‐stage inference process that consists of a data‐cleaning step and a parameter estimation step via either Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm or profile likelihood method is proposed based on the contaminated type‐I interval‐censored sample from a mixture distribution with unknown proportion. An extensive simulation study is conducted under the mixture smallest extreme value distributions to evaluate the performance of the proposed method for a case study. Finally, the proposed methods are applied to the mixture lifetime distribution modeling of video graphics array adapters for the support of reliability decision.
Estimating person parameters via item response model and simple sum score in small samples with few polytomous items: A simulation study
Authors: Schwall Philipp , Meesters Christian , Hardt Jochen
Published: June 2019

Background: The Item Response Theory (IRT) is becoming increasingly popular for item analysis. Theoretical considerations and simulation studies suggest that parameter estimates will become precise only by utilizing many items in large samples.

Method: A simulation study focusing on a single scale was performed on data with (a) n = 40, 60, 80, 120, 200, 300, 500, and 900 cases utilizing (b) 4, 8, 16, or 32 items. The items were (c) symmetrically distributed vs. skew (skewness 0, 1, and 2). Item loadings were (d) homogeneous vs. heterogeneous. Item loadings were (e) low vs. high. Half of the items had (f) a correlated error or not. The number of answering categories (g) was four vs. five. A total of 10% of each item had missing values. The ability‐estimates from the IRT model and the simple sum score served as criteria for evaluating the results.

Results: The ability‐estimate from the IRT model outperformed the sum score when there were many items, skewed distributed items, and the item loadings were heterogeneous and high. The sum score outperformed the ability‐estimate when there were few items, nonskewed items, and homogeneous and low item loadings. However, convergence rates were partly low in small samples. Correlated errors affected, both negatively, the ability‐estimate and the sum score.

Conclusion: With skew item distributions and heterogeneous item loadings, utilizing an IRT model is recommended. However, with few items, many cases are required, conversely, with few cases many items. With few items and few cases, the sum score performs better.
Recent Developments in Fluorometric and Colorimetric Chemodosimeters Targeted towards Hydrazine Sensing: Present Success and Future Possibilities
Authors: Manna Saikat Kumar , Gangopadhyay Ankita , Maiti Kalipada , Mondal Sanchita , Mahapatra Ajit Kumar
Published: June 2019

Recently, the design, synthesis and development of chemodosimeters for hydrazine with high selectivity and sensitivity has attracted tremendous attention due to its major contributions to human health and disease including applications in various platforms. In this review, we recapitulate different strategies for the design of reaction‐based colorimetric and fluorometric probes for the detection of hydrazine and their applications in hydrazine sensing in living systems. The sensing strategies for hydrazine have been divided into six categories: (a) cleavage of the acetoxy group; (b) the nucleophilic addition‐elimination on keto ester; (c) the nucleophilic substitution‐elimination to tandem cyclization on halo‐ester; (d) the nucleophilic addition reaction to phthalimide derivative to phthalhydrazide; (e) the chemical displacement of active methylene compound to hydrazone derivative and (f) Other different approaches. Additionally, a variety of techniques have been devised here for the detection of hydrazine over other comparable ions and neutral amines.
Canonical Wnt Signaling Promotes Neovascularization Through Determination of Endothelial Progenitor Cell Fate via Metabolic Profile Regulation
Authors: Shao Yan , Chen Jianglei , Freeman Willard , Dong Li-Jie , Zhang Zhi-Hui , Xu Manhong , Qiu Fangfang , Du Yanhong , Liu Juping , Li Xiao-Rong , Ma Jian-Xing
Published: June 2019

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to blood vessel formation. Canonical Wnt signaling plays an important role in physiological and pathological angiogenesis and EPC fate regulation. However, the mechanism for Wnt signaling to regulate EPC fate in neovascularization (NV) has not been clearly defined. Here, we showed that very low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (Vldlr−/−) mice, a model of ocular NV induced by Wnt signaling overactivation, have increased EPC numbers in the bone marrow, blood, and retina, as well as an elevated mitochondrial membrane potential indicating higher mitochondrial function of EPCs in the circulation. Isolated EPCs from Vldlr−/− mice showed overactivated Wnt signaling, correlating with increased mitochondrial function, mass, and DNA copy numbers, compared with WT EPCs. Our results also demonstrated that Wnt signaling upregulated mitochondrial biogenesis and function, while inhibiting glycolysis in EPCs, which further decreased EPC stemness and promoted EPCs to a more active state toward differentiation, which may contribute to pathologic vascular formation. Fenofibric acid, an active metabolite of fenofibrate, inhibited Wnt signaling and mitochondrial function in EPCs and decreased EPC numbers in Vldlr−/−mice. It also decreased mitochondrial biogenesis and reactive oxygen species production in Vldlr−/− EPCs, which may be responsible for its therapeutic effect on diabetic retinopathy. These findings demonstrated that Wnt signaling regulates EPC fate through metabolism, suggesting potential application of the EPC metabolic profile as predictor and therapeutic target for neovascular diseases. Stem Cells  2019;37:1331–1343
On the value of a reliability‐based nonlinear finite element analysis approach in the assessment of concrete structures
Authors: Slobbe Arthur , Rózsás Árpád , Allaix Diego L. , Bigaj‐van Vliet Agnieszka
Published: June 2019

The objective of this paper is to explore the value of reliability‐based nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) over the currently available, standardized assessment methods. To our knowledge, no studies are available on this subject, and this paper provides a first insight into the value and reliability level of these assessment methods. The exploration is illustrated through three reinforced concrete structural members: a continuous girder, a continuous deep beam, and a high‐strength deep beam. The analysis is performed gradually: step by step advancing the approximation level of the mechanical and the probabilistic models. The added value of the reliability‐based NLFEA over the semi‐probabilistic Eurocode (EC) method is found to be on average 0.60. In other words: even if according to the semi‐probabilistic EC method the design action (Ed) is 60% higher than the design resistance (Rd), the compliance with the target reliability criterion can be demonstrated by a reliability‐based NLFEA. Furthermore, it is observed that the gain and its cause (i.e., more advanced mechanical or probabilistic models) are different for the three cases. Though this outcome is restricted to the analyzed cases and should be interpreted as an upper limit added value, it indicates that a more detailed physical representation of the problem and an explicit treatment of uncertainties may uncover substantial reserves compared with the currently available, standardized assessment methods. Hence, the reliability‐based NLFEA method offers a promising alternative in the assessment of existing structures, enabling to avoid expensive measures that might be needed based on simplified methods.
Learning curve for detection of pelvic parts of ureters by transvaginal sonography: feasibility study
Authors: Aas‐Eng M. K. , Salama M. , Sevelda U. , Ruesch C. , Nemeth Z. , Hudelist G.
Published: June 2019

Objective

To investigate how many examinations it takes to be able to identify the pelvic parts of the ureters on transvaginal sonography (TVS).

Methods

This was a prospective study including consecutive women attending a gynecological outpatient clinic in a tertiary referral setting. Prior to commencement of the study, three trainees, with a focus on gynecological surgery and TVS but with no experience in identifying ureters, each observed an expert examiner performing 10 routine TVS examinations, including identification of both ureters. All were standardized gynecological TVS examinations, with visualization of the pelvic part of both ureters. Consecutive women were then examined, first by the expert, unobserved by the trainees, and then by one of the three trainees, in the presence of the expert. To ensure that identification of the pelvic parts of the ureters could be incorporated feasibly into routine gynecological TVS in a tertiary referral setting, a time limit of 150 s was set for successful identification of each ureter. A successful examination was defined by identifying both ureters within the time limit. The number of women examined by each trainee was determined by how quickly they achieved proficiency, which was evaluated using the learning curve cumulative summation (LC‐CUSUM) score.

Results

Between January 2017 and June 2017, a total of 140 women were recruited for the study, with 135 patients being included in the final analysis. The three trainees were able to identify the right ureter after a maximum of 48 (range, 34–48) TVS examinations, and the left ureter after a maximum of 47 (range, 27–47) TVS examinations.

Conclusions

Sonographers and/or gynecologists who are familiar with gynecological TVS should be able to become proficient in identifying both ureters after 40–50 TVS examinations. Detection of the ureters is a feasible part of the TVS workup of patients attending a clinic in a tertiary referral center. © 2019 the Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Ultrasound assessment of pelvic floor muscle contraction: reliability and development of an ultrasound‐based contraction scale
Authors: Nyhus M. Ø. , Oversand S. H. , Salvesen Ø. , Salvesen K. Å. , Mathew S. , Volløyhaug I.
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To determine intra‐ and interrater reliability and agreement for ultrasound measurements of pelvic floor muscle contraction and to assess the correlation between ultrasound and vaginal palpation. We also aimed to develop an ultrasound scale for assessment of pelvic floor muscle contraction.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 195 women scheduled for stress urinary incontinence (n = 65) or prolapse (n = 65) surgery or who were primigravid (n = 65). Pelvic floor muscle contraction was assessed by vaginal palpation using the Modified Oxford Scale (MOS) and by two‐ and three‐dimensional (2D/3D) transperineal ultrasound. Proportional change in 2D and 3D levator hiatal anteroposterior (AP) diameter and 3D levator hiatal area between rest and contraction were used as measures of pelvic floor muscle contraction. One rater repeated all ultrasound measurements on stored volumes, which were used for intrarater reliability and agreement analysis, and three independent raters analyzed 60 ultrasound volumes for interrater reliability and agreement analysis. Reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and agreement using Bland–Altman analysis. Tomographic ultrasound was used to identify women with major levator injury. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rS) was used to assess the correlation between ultrasound measurements of pelvic floor muscle contraction and MOS score. The proportion of women allocated to each category of muscle contraction (absent, weak, moderate or strong) by palpation was used to determine the cut‐offs for the ultrasound scale.

Results

Intrarater ICC was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.74–0.85) for proportional change in 2D levator hiatal AP diameter. Interrater ICC was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.72–0.89) for proportional change in 2D AP diameter, 0.80 (95% CI, 0.69–0.88) for proportional change in 3D AP diameter and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.56–0.83) for proportional change in hiatal area. The prevalence of major levator injury was 22.6%. The strength of correlation (rS) between ultrasound measurements and MOS score was 0.52 for 2D AP diameter, 0.62 for 3D AP diameter and 0.47 for hiatal area (P < 0.001 for all). On the ultrasound contraction scale, proportional change in 2D levator hiatal AP diameter of < 1% corresponds to absent, 2–14% to weak, 15–29% to normal and > 30% to strong contraction.

Conclusions

Ultrasound seems to be an objective and reliable method for evaluation of pelvic floor muscle contraction. Proportional change in 2D levator hiatal AP diameter had the highest ICC and moderate correlation with MOS score assessed by vaginal palpation, and we constructed an ultrasound scale for assessment of pelvic floor muscle contraction based on this measure. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Rare autosomal trisomies: comparison of detection through cell‐free DNA analysis and direct chromosome preparation of chorionic villus samples
Authors: Benn P. , Malvestiti F. , Grimi B. , Maggi F. , Simoni G. , Grati F. R.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Direct chromosome preparations of chorionic villus samples (CVS) and cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) testing both involve analysis of the trophoblastic cell lineage. The aim of this study was to compare the spectrum of rare autosomal trisomies (RATs) detected by these two approaches and assess the available information on their clinical significance.

Methods

Data from 10 reports on genome‐wide cfDNA testing were pooled to determine which chromosomes were most frequently involved in RAT‐positive cases, and pregnancy outcome information was reviewed. CVS information was obtained from an updated database of 76 102 consecutive CVS analyses performed over a period of 18 years at TOMA laboratory, in which trophoblastic and mesenchymal layers were analyzed and amniotic fluid cell analysis was recommended for RAT‐positive cases. Chromosomes involved and presence of confined placental mosaicism, true fetal mosaicism and uniparental disomy (UPD) for imprinted chromosomes were assessed. Also evaluated were the frequency and types of RATs in products of conception.

Results

RATs were present in 634 of 196 662 (0.32%) cfDNA samples and 237 of 57 539 (0.41%) CVS trophoblast samples (P < 0.01). The frequency of RATs varied over 8‐fold between the cfDNA reports. Confirmation of abnormality through amniocentesis was more likely when RATs were ascertained through cfDNA (14 of 151; 9.3%) than through CVS trophoblasts (seven of 237; 3.0%) (P < 0.01). In cfDNA‐ascertained cases, trisomies 15, 16 and 22, which are associated with fetal loss, were identified proportionately more often. Of 151 cases with RAT identified by cfDNA and outcome information available, 41.1% resulted in normal live birth; 27.2% in fetal loss; 7.3% had phenotypic abnormality detected through ultrasound or other follow‐up evaluation; 2.0% had a clinically significant UPD; and 14.6% had fetal growth restriction or low birth weight. All autosomes were involved in trisomies in products of conception; the most common RATs detected were trisomies 16, 22 and 15 with a frequency of > 9% each.

Conclusions

Although there are strong parallels between RATs ascertained through cfDNA analysis and direct chromosome preparation of CVS, caution is needed in applying conclusions from CVS analysis to cfDNA testing, and vice versa. RATs identified through genome‐wide cfDNA tests have uncertain risks for fetal loss, growth restriction or fetal abnormality. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Anomaly inflow for M5-branes on punctured Riemann surfaces
Authors: Bah Ibrahima , Bonetti Federico , Minasian Ruben , Nardoni Emily
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We derive the anomaly polynomials of 4d

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

theories that are obtained by wrapping M5-branes on a Riemann surface with arbitrary regular punctures, using anomaly inflow in the corresponding M-theory setup. Our results match the known anomaly polynomials for the 4d

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

class S SCFTs. In our approach, the contributions to the ’t Hooft anomalies due to boundary conditions at the punctures are determined entirely by G
4-flux in the 11d geometry. This computation provides a top-down derivation of these contributions that utilizes the geometric definition of the field theories, complementing the previous field-theoretic arguments.
Subacute vessel wall imaging at 7-T MRI in post-thrombectomy stroke patients
Authors: Truong My , Markenroth Bloch Karin , Andersen Mads , Andsberg Gunnar , Töger Johannes , Wassélius Johan
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Reports from 3-T vessel wall MRI imaging have shown contrast enhancement following thrombectomy for acute stroke, suggesting potential intimal damage. Comparisons have shown higher SNR and more lesions detected by vessel wall imaging when using 7 T compared with 3 T. The aim of this study was to investigate the vessel walls after stent retriever thrombectomy using high-resolution vessel wall imaging at 7 T.

Methods

Seven patients with acute stroke caused by occlusion of the distal internal carotid artery (T-occlusion), or proximal medial cerebral artery, and treated by stent retriever thrombectomy with complete recanalization were included and examined by 7-T MRI within 2 days. The MRI protocol included a high-resolution black blood sequence with prospective motion correction (iMOCO), acquired before and after contrast injection. Flow measurements were performed in the treated and untreated M1 segments.

Results

All subjects completed the MRI examination. Image quality was independently rated as excellent by two neuroradiologists for all cases, and the level of motion artifacts did not impair diagnostic quality, despite severe motion in some cases. Contrast enhancement correlated with the deployment location of the stent retrievers. Flow data showed complete restoration of flow after treatment.

Conclusion

Vessel wall imaging with prospective motion correction can be performed in patients following thrombectomy with excellent imaging quality at 7 T. We show that vessel wall contrast enhancement is the normal post-operative state and corresponds to the deployment location of the stent retriever.
Association Between Compliance to an Enhanced Recovery Protocol and Outcome After Elective Surgery for Gastric Cancer. Results from a Western Population‐Based Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Gianotti Luca , Fumagalli Romario Uberto , De Pascale Stefano , Weindelmayer Jacopo , Mengardo Valentina , Sandini Marta , Cossu Andrea , Parise Paolo , Rosati Riccardo , Bencini Lapo , Coratti Andrea , Colombo Giovanni , Galli Federica , Rausei Stefano , Casella Francesco , Sansonetti Andrea , Maggioni Dario , Costanzi Andrea , Bernasconi Davide P. , De Manzoni Giovanni
Published: June 2019

Background

The association between compliance to an enhanced recovery protocol (ERAS) and outcome after surgery for gastric cancer has been poorly investigated, particularly in Western patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether the rate of adherence to the ERAS program was correlated with outcome and time of discharge.

Methods

A prospective, observational, multicenter study was designed to be performed at Italian referral centers for gastric surgery. The protocol was discussed and approved by the Italian Research Group on Gastric Cancer. Twenty‐three ERAS domains were applied. A multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between ERAS compliance and overall and major complication rates. The Poisson regression model (measured as mean ratios) was used to assess the association of ERAS compliance rate and length of stay (LOS).

Results

Eight centers participated and 290 subjects with a median age of 73 years were enrolled. The overall rates of adherence to pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative ERAS items were 69.8%, 60.3%, and 82.5%, respectively. At the multivariate model, there was an association between overall rate of morbidity and an overall ERAS compliance rate greater than 70% (OR 0.413; 95% CI 0.235–0.7240; P 0.002). A similar association was found for major complications (OR 0.328; 95% CI 0.151–0.709; P 0.005). The Poisson regression showed that in patients with ERAS compliance rate >70%, LOS was reduced of approximately 20% (mean ratio 0.812; 95% CI 0.694–0.950; P 0.009).

Conclusions

These results suggest a moderate compliance to an ERAS program and a significant association between adherence and outcomes.
Cougar (Puma concolor) Injury in the United States
Authors: Wang Yoyo Y. , Weiser Thomas G. , Forrester Joseph D.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Human encounters with the cougar ( Puma concolor) are rare in the United States but may be fatal.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of cougar attacks in the United States. We asked Fish and Wildlife Department officials from the 16 states in which cougars are known to live to identify all verified cougar attacks recorded in state history. Variables describing the human victim, cougar, and conditions surrounding the attack were recorded. The Fisher exact test was used for comparison.

Results

Ten states reported 74 cougar attacks from 1924 to 2018. Persons less than 18 y of age were heavily represented among victims; 48% were <18 y old, and 35% were less than 10 y old. Attacks were more common in the summer and fall months. Most attacks occurred during daylight hours. The head, neck, and chest were the most common anatomic sites of injury. Sixteen (46%) victims were hospitalized after being attacked, among the 35 victims with these data available. Eleven (15%) attacks were fatal among 71 reports with this information. None of the hospitalized victims died ( P=0.02). No victim variables were predictive of death.

Conclusions

Cougar attacks are uncommon but can be fatal. Attacks commonly affect children and young adults, although all age groups are at risk of attack and death. Most attacks occur during the daytime in the summer and fall. As development and recreational activities put humans in closer contact with cougars, establishing validated public health messaging is critical to minimize injurious encounters.
Large-scale streaky structures in turbulent jets
Authors: Nogueira Petrônio A. S. , Cavalieri André V. G. , Jordan Peter , Jaunet Vincent
Published: June 2019

Streaks have been found to be an important part of wall-turbulence dynamics. In this paper, we extend the analysis for unbounded shear flows, in particular a Mach 0.4 round jet, using measurements taken using dual-plane, time-resolved, stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (PIV) taken at pairs of jet cross-sections, allowing the evaluation of the cross-spectral density of streamwise velocity fluctuations resolved into azimuthal Fourier modes. From the streamwise velocity results, two analyses are performed: the evaluation of wavenumber spectra (assuming Taylor’s hypothesis for the streamwise coordinate) and a spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD) of the velocity field using PIV planes in several axial stations. The methods complement each other, leading to the conclusion that large-scale streaky structures are also present in turbulent jets where they experience large growth in the streamwise direction, energetic structures extending up to eight diameters from the nozzle exit. Leading SPOD modes highlight the large-scale, streaky shape of the structures, whose aspect ratio (streamwise over azimuthal length) is approximately 15. The data were further analysed using SPOD, resolvent and transient growth analyses, good agreement being observed between the models and the leading SPOD mode for the wavenumbers considered. The models also indicate that the lift-up mechanism is active in turbulent jets, with streamwise vortices leading to streaks. The results show that large-scale streaks are a relevant part of the jet dynamics.
Characteristics of turbulence in a face-centred cubic porous unit cell
Authors: He Xiaoliang , Apte Sourabh V. , Finn Justin R. , Wood Brian D.
Published: June 2019

Direct numerical simulations (DNS) are performed in a triply periodic unit cell of a face-centred cubic (FCC) lattice covering the unsteady inertial, to fully turbulent, flow regimes. The DNS data are used to quantify the flow topology, integral scales, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) transport and anisotropy distribution in the tortuous geometry. Several unique flow features are observed within this low porosity configuration, where the mean flow undergoes strong acceleration and deceleration regions with presence of three-dimensional helical motions, weak wake-like structures behind spheres, stagnation and jet-impingement-like flows together with merging and spreading jets in the main pore space. The jet-impingement and weak wake-like flow structures give rise to regions with negative total TKE production. Unlike flows in complex shaped ducts, the turbulence intensity levels in the cross-stream directions are found to be larger than those in the streamwise direction. Furthermore, due to the compact nature and confined geometry of the FCC packing, the turbulent integral length scales are estimated to be less than 10 % of the bead diameter even for the lowest Reynolds number studied, indicating the absence of macroscale turbulence structures for this configuration. This finding suggests that even for the highly anisotropic flow within the pore, the upscaled flow statistics are captured well by the representative volumes defined by the unit cell.
Interaction of coherent flow structures in adverse pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Bross Matthew , Fuchs Thomas , Kähler Christian J.
Published: June 2019

With the aim to characterize the near-wall flow structures and their interaction with large-scale motions in the log-law region, time-resolved planar and volumetric flow field measurements were performed in the near-wall and log-law region of an adverse pressure gradient turbulent boundary layer following a zero pressure gradient turbulent boundary layer at a friction Reynolds number $Re_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}=5000$. Due to the high spatial and temporal resolution of the measurements, it was possible to resolve and identify uniform-momentum zones in the region $z/\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}<0.15$ or $z^{+}<350$ and to relate them with well known coherent flow motions near the wall. The space–time results confirm that the turbulent superstructures have a strong impact even on the very near-wall flow motion and also their alternating appearance in time and intensity could be quantified over long time sequences. Using the time record of the velocity field, rare localized separation events appearing in the viscous sublayer were also analysed. By means of volumetric particle tracking velocimetry their three-dimensional topology and dynamics could be resolved. Based on the results, a conceptual model was deduced that explains their rare occurrence, topology and dynamics by means of a complex interaction process between low-momentum turbulent superstructures, near-wall low-speed streaks and tilted longitudinal and spanwise vortices located in the near-wall region.
Reduced grey matter volume in frontal and temporal areas in depression: contributions from voxel-based morphometry study
Authors: Kandilarova Sevdalina , Stoyanov Drozdstoy , Sirakov Nickolay , Maes Michael , Specht Karsten
Published: June 2019

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to examine whether and to what extent mood disorders, comprising major depression and bipolar disorder, are accompanied by structural changes in the brain as measured using voxel-based morphometry (VBM).

Methods:

We performed a VBM study using a 3Т MRI system (GE Discovery 750w) in patients with mood disorders (n=50), namely, 39 with major depression and 11 with bipolar disorder compared to 42 age-, sex- and education-matched healthy controls.

Results:

Our results show that depression was associated with significant decreases in grey matter (GM) volume of the regions located within the medial frontal and anterior cingulate cortex on the left side and middle frontal gyrus, medial orbital gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus (triangular and orbital parts) and middle temporal gyrus (extending to the superior temporal gyrus) on the right side. When the patient group was separated into bipolar disorder and major depression, the reductions remained significant only for patients with major depressive disorder.

Conclusions:

Using VBM the present study was able to replicate decreases in GM volume restricted to frontal and temporal regions in patients with mood disorders, mainly major depression, compared with healthy controls.
Actions of skew braces and set-theoretic solutions of the reflection equation
Authors: De Commer K.
Published: June 2019

A skew brace, as introduced by L. Guarnieri and L. Vendramin, is a set with two group structures interacting in a particular way. When one of the group structures is abelian, one gets back the notion of brace as introduced by W. Rump. Skew braces can be used to construct solutions of the quantum Yang–Baxter equation. In this article, we introduce a notion of action of a skew brace, and show how it leads to solutions of the closely associated reflection equation.
Integrating Remote Sensing into Wildlife Monitoring for Conservation
Authors: Stephenson PJ
Published: June 2019

Effective wildlife monitoring is a prerequisite for effective wildlife conservation since, without time-series data on species populations and threats, evidence-based adaptive management will be difficult to achieve. Technological advances in remote sensing offer more opportunities for data collection than ever before. However, if we are to enhance data sharing and the use of data by decision-makers, methods must be relevant to local user needs and be integrated into monitoring schemes with appropriate goals and indicators.
Culturally Safe Falls Prevention Program for Inuvialuit Elders in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada: Considerations for Development and Implementation
Authors: Frigault Julia S. , Giles Audrey R.
Published: June 2019

La théorie postcoloniale a été utilisée dans cette étude pour identifier les recommandations actuelles en matière de prévention des chutes qui sont proposées par les programmeurs locaux en prévention des chutes (PLPC), afin de réduire les taux de chutes chez les aînés inuvialuits à Inuvik, dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest (Canada), et en vue de comprendre comment co-créer avec les participants des programmes de prévention des chutes qui soient culturellement sûrs pour les aînés inuvialuits. Les résultats ont montré que les aînés inuvialuits et les PLPC à Inuvik recommandent d’ajouter aux programmes existants des évaluations et des modifications environnementales, de l’activité physique et de la formation pour les aînés et les soignants. Pour que les programmes de prévention des chutes soient culturellement sûrs, les aînés considéraient aussi que ces programmes devraient inclure les stratégies suivantes : établir des liens de confiance et des relations au sein de la communauté, intégrer des interventions autochtones et non autochtones dans ces programmes, et assurer une formation sur les pratiques culturellement sécuritaires.
Consequentialism and the Case of Symmetrical Attackers
Authors: Kershnar Stephen
Published: June 2019

There are puzzle cases that forfeiture theory has trouble handling, such as the issue of what happens to the rights of two qualitatively identical people who simultaneously launch unprovoked attacks against the other. Each person either has or lacks the right to defend against the other. If one attacker has the right, then the other does not and vice versa. Yet the two are qualitatively identical so it is impossible for one to have the right if the other does not. The Problem of Symmetrical Attackers is a problem for non-consequentialism because the most plausible non-consequentialist theories assume that people have rights and can lose them by forfeiting them (consider, for example, self-defence, punishment, and compensation) or waiving them (consider, for example, consent). This article considers whether consequentialism can get around this problem.
On Erdős–Ko–Rado for random hypergraphs I
Authors: Hamm A. , Kahn J.
Published: June 2019

A family of sets is intersecting if no two of its members are disjoint, and has the Erdős–Ko–Rado property (or is EKR) if each of its largest intersecting subfamilies has non-empty intersection.

Denote by ${{\cal H}_k}(n,p)$ the random family in which each k-subset of {1, …, n} is present with probability p, independent of other choices. A question first studied by Balogh, Bohman and Mubayi asks:

\begin{equation} {\rm{For what }}p = p(n,k){\rm{is}}{{\cal H}_k}(n,p){\rm{likely to be EKR}}? \end{equation}

Here, for fixed c < 1/4, and $k \lt \sqrt {cn\log n} $ we give a precise answer to this question, characterizing those sequences p = p(n, k) for which

\begin{equation} {\mathbb{P}}({{\cal H}_k}(n,p){\rm{is EKR}}{\kern 1pt} ) \to 1{\rm{as }}n \to \infty . \end{equation}
EBSD and CL Study of Deformed Quartz Grains in Rocks: An Example for one Strain Fringe Structure From Iron Quadrangle
Authors: Barbosa P. F. , Lagoeiro L. E. , Silva M. A. O.
Published: June 2019

Kinematic indicators, including certain strain fringes, represent an important group of structures related to the progressive deformation in rocks. The evolution of these fibrous textures can be explained by the combination of multiple mechanisms of deformation and fluid flow, mainly controlled by the orientation of the strain field and the morphology of the grains. In general, the observations are done with an optical microscope and compared with computational models of growth. This work proposes a combination of crystallographic and cathodoluminescence data obtained in rocks from banded iron formations of the Iron Quadrangle in Brazil to represent an example of how complementary analytical techniques can be useful to understand geological problems. The chosen sample exhibits a strain fringe structure of quartz around a clast of magnetite partially transformed into goethite and hematite. Through the crystallographic data it was possible to identify the grain boundary morphology and domains of low deformation areas. On the other hand, the cathodoluminescence signal evidenced the occurrence of grains with a higher concentration of crystalline defects.