bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of hexagonal‐pattern minibeams for spatially fractionated radiotherapy using proton beam scanning
Authors: Charyyev Serdar , Artz Mark , Szalkowski Gregory , Chang Chih‐Wei , Stanforth Alexander , Lin Liyong , Zhang Rongxiao , Wang C.‐K. Chris
Published: April 2020

Purpose

In this study, we investigated computationally and experimentally a hexagonal‐pattern array of spatially fractionated proton minibeams produced by proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) technique. Spatial fractionation of dose delivery with millimeter or submillimeter beam size has proven to be a promising approach to significantly increase the normal tissue tolerance. Our goals are to obtain an optimized minibeam design and to show that it is feasible to implement the optimized minibeams at the existing proton clinics.

Methods

An optimized minibeam arrangement is one that would produce high peak‐to‐valley dose ratios (PVDRs) in normal tissues and a PVDR approaching unity at the Bragg peak. Using Monte Carlo (MC) code TOPAS we simulated proton pencil beams that mimic those available at the existing proton therapy facilities and obtained a hexagonal‐pattern array of minibeams by collimating the proton pencil beams through the 1–3 mm diameter pinholes of a collimator. We optimized the minibeam design by considering different combinations of parameters including collimator material and thickness (t), center‐to‐center (c‐t‐c) distance, and beam size. The optimized minibeam design was then evaluated for normal tissue sparing against the uniform pencil beam scanning (PBS) by calculating the therapeutic advantage (TA) in terms of cell survival fraction. Verification measurements using radiochromic films were performed at the Emory proton therapy center (EPTC).

Results

Optimized hexagonal‐pattern minibeams having PVDRs of >10 at phantom surface and of >3 at depths up to 6 cm were achieved with 2 mm diameter modulated proton minibeams (with proton energies between 120 and 140 MeV) corresponding to a spread‐out‐Bragg‐peak (SOBP) over the depth of 10–14 cm. The results of the film measurements agree with the MC results within 10%. The TA of the 2 mm minibeams against the uniform PBS is >3 from phantom surface to the depth of 5 cm and then smoothly drops to ~1.5 as it approaches the proximal edge of the SOBP. For 2 mm minibeams and 6 mm c‐t‐c distance, we delivered 1.72 Gy at SOBP for 7.2 × 7.2 × 4 cm3 volume in 48 s.

Conclusions

We conclude that it is feasible to implement the optimized hexagonal‐pattern 2 mm proton minibeam radiotherapy at the existing proton clinics, because desirable PVDRs and TAs are achievable and the treatment time is reasonable.
Intrathecal delivery of nusinersen in individuals with complicated spines
Authors: Cartwright Michael S. , Ward Zachary T. , White Eric P. , West Thomas G.
Published: April 2020

Background

The treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) with nusinersen requires intrathecal medication administration, which can be challenging in individuals with complicated spines. This retrospective case series reviews the nusinersen treatment experience at one academic medical center with children and adults with SMA and complicated spines.

Methods

Twenty medical records of individuals receiving nusinersen were reviewed and administration methods summarized and assessed.

Results

Ten children and 10 adults were treated, and 55% had complicated spines. In total, 163 treatments were given, 91 in those with complicated spines. In the complicated spines, 74% of treatments were done by means of fluoroscopic lumbar puncture, 22% by means of intrathecal Ommaya reservoir, 3% by means of palpation, and < 1% by means of computed tomography‐guided transforaminal approach.

Conclusions

A large majority of individuals with complicated spines can receive intrathecal nusinersen using fluoroscopic guidance in the lumbar region. Other delivery methods are available but less frequently used.
A People's Preservation: Urban Erasures in Essex County, NJ
Authors: Matthews Christopher N.
Published: April 2020

The value of historic preservation is defined by an appreciation for old buildings as contributing to the sense of place of communities, both large and small. A recent national effort to develop a “preservation for people,” however, suggests that the inherent good of preservation is being challenged and rethought. This article considers this self‐assessment a retrenchment aimed at ensuring the preservation of the preservation field. Looking specifically at the urban and suburban landscape of Essex County, New Jersey, since the passing of the National Historic Preservation Act in 1965, I examine how preservation has developed a tradition of serving only those that can support its agenda. I then turn to show how those neglected by the preservation field in the county nevertheless practice preservation on their own terms, developing the foundations of what I call “a people’s preservation.” This counternarrative produces a different frame for preservation, showing how it can serve not a generic people but specific communities whose self‐determination can be the real focus of preservation practice.
Role of Microbiome and Antibiotics in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Vangoitsenhoven Roman , Cresci Gail A. M.
Published: April 2020

The global rise in the incidence of autoimmune diseases has paralleled the widespread use of antibiotics. Recently, the gut microbiome has been shown to be key in the development and maturation of a normal immune system, and a range of microbial disturbances have been associated with the development and activity of several autoimmune diseases. Here, we aim to provide an overview of the mechanistic crosstalk between the human microbiome, the immune system, and antibiotics. The disease‐associated microbial gut dysbiosis, the potential role of antibiotics in the development and treatment of autoimmune diseases, and the manipulation of the gut microbiome with prebiotics and probiotics is discussed using 2 key autoimmune diseases as an example: inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes. Although some data suggest that widespread use of antibiotics may facilitate autoimmunity through gut dysbiosis, there are also data to suggest antibiotics may hold the potential to improve disease activity. Currently, the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation on several autoimmune diseases is being studied in clinical trials, and several preclinical studies are revealing promising results with probiotic and prebiotic therapies.
Comparison of pre‐hospital triage training by role playing and lecture on nursing students' knowledge, attitude and performance
Authors: Heidarzadeh Hamid , Heidarzadeh Zeinab , Azadi Arman
Published: April 2020

Aim

The objective of this study was to determine and compare the effectiveness of two methods of role playing and lecture on knowledge, attitude and performance of nursing' students in the context of pre‐hospital triage.

Design

This was a pre‐test–posttest quasi‐experimental study.

Methods

A total of 66 nursing students (third year) were assigned to two groups, the control group (N = 23) and intervention group (N = 23). START pre‐hospital triage was taught to two groups by using a lecture (control group) and role playing (intervention group) method. Immediately before the intervention and 4 weeks after the training, students' knowledge, attitude and practice in both groups were assessed through a questionnaire and a checklist. Data were analysed using SPSS software version 21.

Results

The results showed that the mean scores of knowledge, attitude and performance increased after intervention in both groups (p < .05). The mean (SD) difference of total performance score from baseline to follow‐up in the experimental group and the control group was 23.91 (13.83) and 7.00 (13.20), respectively (p < .001). While there was no significant difference between the mean (SD) difference of knowledge and attitude scores in the experimental group and the control group before and after the intervention (p > .05).
Can Reducing Childhood Obesity Solve the Obesity Crisis in Australia?
Authors: Lung Thomas , Baur Louise A. , Bauman Adrian , Hayes Alison
Published: April 2020

Objective

Childhood obesity prevention has been identified as a key strategy to address the obesity crisis, with considerable investment by governments internationally. This study modeled the implications of entering adulthood at a lower or higher BMI (a consequence of changes in childhood obesity) and modeled how this would influence future numbers of adults with obesity in Australia.

Methods

In this study, a dynamic population model was used to investigate how obesity prevention in children could impact the future number of adults with obesity in Australia from 2015 to 2040. The base population was a nationally representative data set of 14,256 individuals (representing approximately 17 million adults) from the Australian Health Survey 2014‐2015. Each year, a new 20‐year‐old cohort was added to the simulated population, reflecting the transition to adulthood under scenarios of stable, increasing, or decreasing childhood obesity.

Results

Targeting and reducing childhood obesity will have only a small and delayed effect on adult obesity levels, with approximately 280,000 fewer adults with obesity by 2040.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of investing in and implementing obesity prevention programs across all ages, particularly in young adults, to successfully reduce the prevalence of adult obesity in Australia.
First‐Year Economic and Quality of Life Effects of the RAINBOW Intervention to Treat Comorbid Obesity and Depression
Authors: Goldhaber‐Fiebert Jeremy D. , Prince Lea , Xiao Lan , Lv Nan , Rosas Lisa G. , Venditti Elizabeth M. , Lewis Megan A. , Snowden Mark B. , Ma Jun
Published: April 2020

Objective

Obesity and depression are prevalent and often co‐occurring conditions in the United States. The Research Aimed at Improving Both Mood and Weight (RAINBOW) randomized trial demonstrated the effectiveness of an integrated intervention for adults with both conditions. Characterizing the intervention’s economic effects is important for broader dissemination and implementation.

Methods

This study evaluated the cost (2018 US dollars) and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) impacts during RAINBOW’s first year, comparing intervention (n = 204) and usual‐care groups (n = 205). Outcomes included intervention delivery costs, differential changes in antidepressant medication spending compared with the pretrial year, differential changes in medical services spending compared with the pretrial year, and HRQoL changes from baseline using Euroqol‐5D US utility weights.

Results

RAINBOW’s 1‐year delivery cost per person was $2,251. Compared with usual care, annual antidepressant medication days increased more (38 days [95% CI: 4 to 72]; P = 0.027). Annual antidepressant medication spending had a larger, nonsignificant increase ($89 [95% CI: −$20 to $197]; P = 0.109). Annual spending on medical care services had a smaller, nonsignificant decrease (−$54 [95% CI: −$832 to $941]; P = 0.905). HRQoL had a nonsignificant increase (0.011 [95% CI: −0.025 to 0.047]; P = 0.546).

Conclusions

The RAINBOW intervention’s economic value will depend on how its 1‐year improvements in obesity and depression translate into long‐term reduced morbidity, delayed mortality, or averted costs.
Controlled Growth of Vertically Oriented Trilayer MoS2 Nanoflakes for Room‐Temperature NO2 Gas Sensor Applications
Authors: Hung Chu Manh , Vuong Vy Anh , Duy Nguyen Van , An Dinh Van , Hieu Nguyen Van , Kashif Muhammad , Hoa Nguyen Duc
Published: April 2020

The controlled synthesis of few‐layer vertically oriented MoS2 flakes for high‐performance NO2 gas sensor applications is introduced. The density and the thickness of MoS2 nanosheets are controlled by varying the heating rate of the chemical vapor deposition process. Herein, it is confirmed that the nanoflakes of about three layers are obtained under the heating rate of 5 °C using powders of MoO3 and S as precursors without using any catalyst. This is very advantageous because no catalyst is used, there is no need of buffer layer at the bottom of the MoS2 thin‐film flacks, thus omitting the leakage current when measuring the electrical signal and enhancing the gas sensing performance. Gas sensing measurements demonstrate that the interconnected vertically oriented MoS2 nanoflakes have a good response value of 20.1% to 0.5 ppm NO2 at room‐temperature (RT), and 1.73% at 150 °C. The sensor shows full recovery characteristic at a measured temperature of 150 °C with response and recovery time of about 15 and 100 s, respectively. The sensor also exhibits good selectivity with the ignorable response to SO2, H2, NH3, H2S, and a low detection limit of 42 ppb.
Meso‐scale contribution to air–sea turbulent fluxes at GCM scale
Authors: Blein Sébastien , Roehrig Romain , Voldoire Aurore , Faure Ghislain
Published: April 2020

Parametrizations of sea surface turbulent fluxes used in general circulation models (GCMs) assume horizontal homogeneity of atmospheric properties at the grid‐cell scale. The present study assesses the contribution of the meso‐scale (i.e., subgrid) to the grid‐scale surface fluxes, for GCM resolution ranging from 20 to 200 km, and thus quantifies the associated GCM surface flux error. A coarse‐graining method allows for an a priori analysis of the subgrid information. It is based on an atmospheric reference dataset produced by the convection‐permitting operational model AROME. The meso‐scale relative contribution to GCM‐scale fluxes exceeding 10% is shown to have large regional patterns, with large values (up to 90%) and high frequency of occurrence (up to 76% of the time). These meso‐scale motions are not necessarily due to convective activity but also occur frequently under dynamical perturbation conditions. Contributions to surface fluxes, at both the GCM scale and the meso‐scale, are disentangled through a Reynolds decomposition. It is found that temperature and humidity meso‐scale heterogeneities do not contribute much to the GCM‐scale fluxes. The subgrid dynamical processes are the main meso‐scale contribution and consist of two parts. The first one represents the wind magnitude and wind direction heterogeneities and corresponds to the so‐called gustiness approach. It is clarified that the contribution of the gustiness wind in the transfer coefficients cannot be neglected. The second part is the contribution of the wind speed subgrid variance, which contributes up to 10% of the GCM‐scale momentum
flux.
Time‐dependent density functional theory investigations on structural modification in carbazole‐based organic photosensitizers to improve electron injection in dye‐sensitized solar cell
Authors: Majid Abdul , Sana Maryam , Khan Salah Ud‐Din , Ahmad Naeem
Published: April 2020

The time‐dependent density functional theory approach, implemented at hybrid‐B3LYP, GGA‐PBE, and density functional‐based tight binding levels of theory, was used to model photoinjection in organic dye/TiO2 quantum dot to explore the prospects of improvement of dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC). The photosensitizer used in this study consisted of six carbazole‐based organic dyes, a cyanoacrylic acid group as an acceptor and an oligothiophene π‐bridge spacer. The modifications were made in the dyes by increasing the length of the spacer by adding thiophene and oxadiazole rings at different positions of the donor‐acceptor bridge. The structural variations appeared to alter the electronic and optical properties of dyes studied via energy levels and excitation spectra. The UV‐Vis spectra calculated for all the dyes in solvents exhibited a red shift in spectral peaks with an increase in the polarity of the solvents. The findings of the study pointed toward the indirect photoinjection of the dye‐(TiO2)96 complex for six different dyes. The substitution of the oxadiazole ring at the center and addition of a thiophene ring at the edge of the spacer produced two dyes that exhibited the lowest injection energies of 0.11 and 0.17 eV, along with the regeneration energies of 1.18 and 1.12 eV, respectively. The dyes reported here may have promising applications in photoanode for enhancing the performance of DSSC.
Two‐Stage Polyelectrolyte Assembly Orchestrated by a Clock Reaction
Authors: Sproncken Christian C M. , Gumí‐Audenis Berta , Panzarasa Guido , Voets Ilja K.
Published: April 2020

Controlling the transient self‐assembly of (macro)molecular building blocks is of fundamental interest, both to understand the dynamic processes occurring in living systems and to develop new generations of functional materials. The subtle interplay between different types of physicochemical interactions, as well as the possible reaction pathways, are crucial when both thermodynamic and kinetic factors play substantial roles, as in the case of transient supramolecular assemblies. Clock reactions are a promising tool to achieve temporal control over self‐assembly in non‐living materials. Here, we report on the tunable association of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) fueled by the formaldehyde‐sulfite clock reaction. The electrostatic interaction between the large macromolecules and the small, oppositely charged sulfite ions gives rise to micron‐sized coacervate‐like complexes. As the clock proceeds, sulfite is completely depleted and the complexes dissociate. However, under suitable conditions, a subsequent reaction between the polyelectrolyte and formaldehyde can lock‐in the preformed supramolecular structure, giving rise to covalently crosslinked colloidal particles.
Prevalence of Leptospira serogroups in buffaloes from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Guedes Israel B. , de Souza Gisele O. , de Oliveira Lilian A. R. , Castro Juliana F. de P. , de Souza Filho Antônio F. , Maia Anderson L. P. , Heinemann Marcos B.
Published: April 2020

Although Brazil has one of the largest buffalo populations in the Americas, buffalo leptospirosis is still poorly explored when compared to that in bovines; thus, the aim of this research was to carry out a large serological study for leptospirosis in this species in the Brazilian Amazon. For this, we collected 1,405 serum samples from buffaloes raised in the Amazon delta region, which is considered a major area of buffalo production in Brazil. The test used was a microscopic agglutination test (MAT) adopting 34 Leptospira antigens, some of which have never been tested for buffaloes in Brazil, including autochthonous strains; in total, 20 serogroups were evaluated. From the total of 1,405 serum samples, 894 (63.6%) reacted in the MAT to at least one of the 20 serogroups, and 511 (36.4%) did not react. The serogroups Sejroe, Autumnalis and Pomona were the most prevalent, with titres ranging from 100 to 12,800, and the autochthonous strains used were not significant in relation to the reference serovars. Leptospirosis in buffaloes seems to have a serological profile similar to leptospirosis in cattle, mainly due to the prevalence of the Sejroe serogroup; however, the results of this study suggested that in the Brazilian Amazon, Leptospira strains that are serologically distinct from the autochthonous strains isolated in the southeastern region of Brazil may be circulating in these animals. Other serovars could also be inserted into the panel of antigens used in MAT for serological studies on buffaloes.
Machine‐learning scoring functions for structure‐based virtual screening
Authors: Li Hongjian , Sze Kam‐Heung , Lu Gang , Ballester Pedro J.
Published: April 2020

Molecular docking predicts whether and how small molecules bind to a macromolecular target using a suitable 3D structure. Scoring functions for structure‐based virtual screening primarily aim at discovering which molecules bind to the considered target when these form part of a library with a much higher proportion of non‐binders. Classical scoring functions are essentially models building a linear mapping between the features describing a protein–ligand complex and its binding label. Machine learning, a major subfield of artificial intelligence, can also be used to build fast supervised learning models for this task. In this review, we analyzed such machine‐learning scoring functions for structure‐based virtual screening in the period 2015–2019. We have discussed what the shortcomings of current benchmarks really mean and what valid alternatives have been employed. The latter retrospective studies observed that machine‐learning scoring functions were substantially more accurate, in terms of higher hit rates and potencies, than the classical scoring functions they were compared to. Several of these machine‐learning scoring functions were also employed in prospective studies, in which mid‐nanomolar binders with novel chemical structures were directly discovered without any potency optimization. We have thus highlighted the codes and webservers that are available to build or apply machine‐learning scoring functions to prospective structure‐based virtual screening studies. A discussion of prospects for future work completes this review.

This article is categorized under:

Computer and Information Science > Chemoinformatics
Experimental determination of L fluorescence yields of gadolinium
Authors: Ménesguen Yves , Lépy Marie‐Christine
Published: April 2020

The fluorescence yields are useful X‐ray atomic fundamental parameters for X‐ray spectrometric purposes but suffer from large tabulated uncertainties, and this is the first time to our knowledge that all three subshell parameters are measured together. We determined the three L partial fluorescence yields and the associated Coster‐Kronig transition probabilities of gadolinium, by selectively ionizing the three L subshells with a tunable monochromatic photon beam. We found
ω1 = 0.099(3),
ω2 = 0.162(4), and
ω3 = 0.159(3) that are in good agreement with tabulated values, but our derived uncertainties are significantly reduced.
The Crystal Structure of MnF3 Revisited
Authors: Bandemehr Jascha , Stoll Christiane , Heymann Gunter , Ivlev Sergei I. , Karttunen Antti J. , Conrad Matthias , Huppertz Hubert , Kraus Florian
Published: April 2020

We correct the crystal structure of MnF3, of which the space group was reported as monoclinic C2/c (no. 15) with a = 8.9202, b = 5.0472, c = 13.4748 Å, β = 92.64°, V = 606.02 Å³, Z = 12, mS48, T not given, likely 298 K. In the structure model proposed here, we use a unit cell of one third of the former volume. The ruby red crystals of MnF3 were synthesized by a high‐pressure/high‐temperature method, where MnF4 was used as a starting material. As determined on a single crystal, MnF3 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group I2/a (no. 15) with a = 5.4964(11), b = 5.0084(10), c = 7.2411(14) Å, β = 93.00(3)°, V = 199.06(7) Å3, Z = 4, mS16, T = 183(2) K. The crystal structure of MnF3 is related by a direct group‐subgroup transition to the VF3 structure‐type. We performed quantum chemical calculations on the crystal structure to allow the assignment of bands of the obtained vibrational spectra.
Crossing Paths with Hans Bodlaender: A Personal View on Cross-Composition for Sparsification Lower Bounds
Authors: Jansen Bart M. P.
Published: April 2020

On the occasion of Hans Bodlaender’s 60th birthday, I give a personal account of our history and work together on the technique of cross-composition for kernelization lower bounds. I present several simple new proofs for polynomial kernelization lower bounds using cross-composition, interlaced with personal anecdotes about my time as Hans’ PhD student at Utrecht University. Concretely, I will prove that Vertex Cover, Feedback Vertex Set, and the H-Factor problem for every graph H that has a connected component of at least three vertices, do not admit kernels of $$\mathcal {O}(n^{2-\varepsilon })$$

O
(

n

2
-
ε

)

bits when parameterized by the number of vertices n for any $$\varepsilon > 0$$

ε
>
0

, unless $$\mathsf {NP \subseteq coNP/poly}$$

NP
⊆
coNP
/
poly

. These lower bounds are obtained by elementary gadget constructions, in particular avoiding the use of the Packing Lemma by Dell and van Melkebeek.
The functional bootstrap for boundary CFT
Authors: Kaviraj Apratim , Paulos Miguel F.
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We introduce a new approach to the study of the crossing equation for CFTs in the presence of a boundary. We argue that there is a basis for this equation related to the generalized free field solution. The dual basis is a set of linear functionals which act on the crossing equation to give a set of sum rules on the boundary CFT data: the functional bootstrap equations. We show these equations are essentially equivalent to a Polyakov-type approach to the bootstrap of BCFTs, and show how to fix the so-called contact term ambiguity in that context. Finally, the functional bootstrap equations diagonalize perturbation theory around generalized free fields, which we use to recover the Wilson-Fisher BCFT data in the ϵ-expansion to order ϵ
2.
Receptor-mediated endocytosis 8 (RME-8)/DNAJC13 is a novel positive modulator of autophagy and stabilizes cellular protein homeostasis
Authors: Besemer Anna S. , Maus Joanna , Ax Mirjam D. A. , Stein Anna , Vo Stella , Freese Christian , Nalbach Karsten , von Hilchen Christian , Pfalzgraf Ines F. , Koziollek-Drechsler Ingrid , Silva Beate , Huesmann Heike , Boukhallouk Fatima , Florin Luise , Kern Andreas , Behl Christian , Clement Albrecht M.
Published: April 2020

The cellular protein homeostasis (proteostasis) network responds effectively to insults. In a functional screen in C. elegans, we recently identified the gene receptor-mediated endocytosis 8 (rme-8; human ortholog: DNAJC13) as a component of the proteostasis network. Accumulation of aggregation-prone proteins, such as amyloid-β 42 (Aβ), α-synuclein, or mutant Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1), were aggravated upon the knockdown of rme-8/DNAJC13 in C. elegans and in human cell lines, respectively. DNAJC13 is involved in endosomal protein trafficking and associated with the retromer and the WASH complex. As both complexes have been linked to autophagy, we investigated the role of DNAJC13 in this degradative pathway. In knockdown and overexpression experiments, DNAJC13 acts as a positive modulator of autophagy. In contrast, the overexpression of the Parkinson’s disease-associated mutant DNAJC13(N855S) did not enhance autophagy. Reduced DNAJC13 levels affected ATG9A localization at and its transport from the recycling endosome. As a consequence, ATG9A co-localization at LC3B-positive puncta under steady-state and autophagy-induced conditions is impaired. These data demonstrate a novel function of RME-8/DNAJC13 in cellular homeostasis by modulating ATG9A trafficking and autophagy.
Submerged micro grinding: a metalworking fluid application study
Authors: Arrabiyeh Peter A. , Heintz Marius , Kieren-Ehses Sonja , Bohley Martin , Kirsch Benjamin , Aurich Jan C.
Published: April 2020

Micro machining with micro pencil grinding tools (MPGTs) is an emerging technology that can be used to manufacture closed microchannel structures in hard and brittle materials as well as hardened steels like 16MnCr5. At their current operating conditions, these tools have a comparatively short tool life. In previous works, MPGTs in combination with a minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) system were used to manufacture microchannels in 16MnCr5 hardened steel. The study has shown that steel adhesions clog the abrasive layer of MPGTs, most likely resulting from insufficient lubrication. In this paper, a metalworking fluid (MWF) supply method was developed to improve the process: a submerged micro grinding process, in which machining takes place inside a pool of MWF. In this study, the effect of seven types of MWFs on material adhesions at the bottom surface of the tool is evaluated. Equivalent good MWFs are then compared in a micro pendulum grinding experiment till failure.
Do prostate cancer-related mobile phone apps have a role in contemporary prostate cancer management? A systematic review by EAU young academic urologists (YAU) urotechnology group
Authors: Jamnadass Enakshee , Rai Bhavan Prasad , Veneziano Domenico , Tokas Theodoros , Rivas Juan Gomez , Cacciamani Giovanni , Somani Bhaskar
Published: April 2020

Aims and objectives

To review the available literature regarding the use of prostate cancer-related mobile phone applications (PCA).

Materials and methods

The search was for English language articles between inceptions of databases to June 2019. Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched. Full-text articles were reviewed, and the following data were extracted to aid with app analysis: name of application, developer, platform (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and factors assessed by the article.

Results

The search yielded 1825 results of which 13 studies were included in the final review. 44 PCAs were identified from the data collected of which 59% of the PCAs had an educational focus. 11 apps were inactive and 5 weren’t updated within the last year. Five studies focused on the development and testing of apps (MyHealthAvatar, CPC, Rotterdam, Interaktor, NED). Two studies evaluated the readability of PCAs. Most PCAs had a reading level greater than that of the average patient. Two studies evaluated the quality and accuracy of apps. Majority of PCAs were accurate with a wide range of information. The study reported most PCAs to have deficient or insufficient scores for data protection. Two studies evaluated the accuracy of Rotterdam, CORAL and CPC risk calculators. Rotterdam was the best performer.

Conclusions

PCAs are currently in its infancy and do require further development before widespread integration into existing clinical practise. There are concerns with data protection, high readability standards and lack of information update in current PCAs. If developed appropriately with responsible governance, they do have the potential to play important roles in modern-day prostate cancer management
Algebraic multigrid for the finite pointset method
Authors: Metsch Bram , Nick Fabian , Kuhnert Jörg
Published: April 2020

We investigate algebraic multigrid (AMG) methods for the linear systems arising from the discretization of Navier–Stokes equations via the finite pointset method. In the segregated approach, three pressure systems and one velocity system need to be solved. In the coupled approach, one of the pressure systems is coupled with the velocity system, leading to a coupled velocity-pressure saddle point system. The discretization of the differential operators used in FPM leads to non-symmetric matrices that do not have the M-matrix property. Even though the theoretical framework for many AMG methods requires these properties, our AMG methods can be successfully applied to these matrices and show a robust and scalable convergence when compared to a BiCGStab(2) solver.
Verbesserung des Fahrkomforts eines Straßenfahrzeuges durch Aufbauisolation mittels des passivitätsbasierten Regelungsansatzes IDA-PBC
Authors: Theilig Alexander
Published: April 2020

Das Fahrwerk von Straßenfahrzeugen steht seit jeher für Fahrdynamik, Fahrsicherheit und Fahrkomfort. Der bewussten Einflussnahme auf diese Größen zur Auflösung von Designzwängen und Zielkonflikten wird sich bereits seit mehreren Jahrzehnten intensiv gewidmet. So zielt auch der vorliegende Beitrag auf Verbesserung des Fahrkomforts ab. Dies soll durch Isolation der Fahrzeugaufbaudynamik vom Rad mittels eines semiaktiven Fahrwerks erfolgen. Die Bewegungen des Rades sollen nicht mehr (vollständig) auf den Fahrzeugaufbau übertragen und somit dessen Schwingungsanregung reduziert werden. Regelungstechnisch umgesetzt wird dieser Ansatz anhand der passivitätsbasierten Regelungsmethode „Interconnection and Damping Assignment“ (IDA). Um die Freiheitsgrade bei der Reglersynthese bewusst einzuschränken, wurde eine systematische und physikalisch nachvollziehbare Vorgehensweise basierend auf der Analyse der stabilitätsrelevanten Teilsystemstruktur gewählt. Im Beitrag enthalten, ist eine kurze Einführung in die Systemtheorie zur Passivität, in „Port Controlled Hamiltonian Systems with Dissipation“ (PCHD-Systeme) sowie in die IDA Reglersynthese. Die Modellbildung basiert auf einen Viertelfahrzeugversuchsstand des Instituts für Steuer- und Regelungstechnik der Universität der Bundeswehr München. Anhand dieses Versuchsstands wurde eine Reglerparametrierung auf Basis von Simulationen und praktischer Erprobung durchgeführt. Abschließend erfolgt eine Betrachtung von Stabilität und Passivität zum geschlossenen System.
MRI-based static and functional assessment of complex hip deformities in comparison with CT: a validation study
Authors: Blum Sophia , Franken Lea , Hartmann Albrecht , Thielemann Falk , Plodeck Verena , Danowski Dirk , Kühn Jens-Peter , Hoffmann Ralf-Thorsten , Günther Klaus-Peter , Goronzy Jens
Published: April 2020

Objective

This study aimed at investigating the agreement between predefined quantitative parameters of hip morphology derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and virtual range of motion (ROM) analysis using computed tomography (CT) as standard of reference.

Methods

Twenty patients (13 females, 7 males, 16–59 years) with hip deformities underwent MRI prior to surgery. Clockwise alpha angle, femoral head and neck diameter, collum caput diaphysis angle, femoral torsion, center-edge angles, acetabular coverage of the femoral head, sourcil angle, and acetabular anteversion were measured. Additionally, tern single and combined movements were simulated using a motion analysis program. The MRI findings were compared with the corresponding results obtained by CT. Correlation of MRI with CT was assessed using different statistical methods (intraclass correlation coefficient, Bland–Altmann plot, two one-sided t test), and linear regression analysis was performed.

Results

The results showed near-perfect intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for anteversion (0.95), acetabular sector angles (0.98–0.99), sourcil angle (0.95), and acetabular coverage (anterior 0.96, posterior 0.99). Intermethod correlation for femoral parameters showed almost perfect agreement except for the alpha angle (0.73–0.97). No significant proportional bias was detected for traditional acetabular and femoral parameters. ROM analysis was performed for 370 movements in 37 hips. For 78.4% (290/370) of the movements analysed, neither CT nor MRI detected impingement across the physiological ROM. For 18.6% (69/370) of the movements, impingement was detected by both CT and MRI, while 2.2% (8/370) of the movements with impingement in CT showed no impingement in MRI, and 0.8% (3/370) of the movements with impingement in MRI had no corresponding result in CT.

Conclusion

Finally, it was concluded that MRI-based assessment of hip morphology and virtual ROM analysis is feasible and can be performed with good intermethod agreement in comparison to the gold standard (CT). Therefore, MRI appears to be substantially equivalent to CT for use in virtual ROM analysis and so may reasonably be used in place of CT for this purpose.
Prospective, randomized, single-blinded, multi-center phase II trial of two HER2 peptide vaccines, GP2 and AE37, in breast cancer patients to prevent recurrence
Authors: Brown Tommy A. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Hale Diane F. , Myers John W. , Peace Kaitlin M. , Jackson Doreen O. , Greene Julia M. , Vreeland Timothy J. , Clifton G. Travis , Ardavanis Alexandros , Litton Jennifer K. , Shumway Nathan M. , Symanowski J. , Murray James L. , Ponniah Sathibalan , Anastasopoulou E. A. , Pistamaltzian N. F. , Baxevanis Constantin N. , Perez Sonia A. , Papamichail Michael , Peoples George E.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

AE37 and GP2 are HER2 derived peptide vaccines. AE37 primarily elicits a CD4+ response while GP2 elicits a CD8+ response against the HER2 antigen. These peptides were tested in a large randomized trial to assess their ability to prevent recurrence in HER2 expressing breast cancer patients. The primary analyses found no difference in 5-year overall disease-free survival (DFS) but possible benefit in subgroups. Here, we present the final landmark analysis.

Methods

In this 4-arm, prospective, randomized, single-blinded, multi-center phase II trial, disease-free node positive and high-risk node negative breast cancer patients enrolled after standard of care therapy. Six monthly inoculations of vaccine (VG) vs. control (CG) were given as the primary vaccine series with 4 boosters at 6-month intervals. Demographic, safety, immunologic, and DFS data were evaluated.

Results

456 patients were enrolled; 154 patients in the VG and 147 in CG for AE37, 89 patients in the VG and 91 in CG for GP2. The AE37 arm had no difference in DFS as compared to CG, but pre-specified exploratory subgroup analyses showed a trend towards benefit in advanced stage (p = 0.132, HR 0.573 CI 0.275–1.193), HER2 under-expression (p = 0.181, HR 0.756 CI 0.499–1.145), and triple-negative breast cancer (p = 0.266, HR 0.443 CI 0.114–1.717). In patients with both HER2 under-expression and advanced stage, there was significant benefit in the VG (p = 0.039, HR 0.375 CI 0.142–0.988) as compared to CG. The GP2 arm had no significant difference in DFS as compared to CG, but on subgroup analysis, HER2 positive patients had no recurrences with a trend toward improved DFS (p = 0.052) in VG as compared to CG.

Conclusions

This phase II trial reveals that AE37 and GP2 are safe and possibly associated with improved clinical outcomes of DFS in certain subgroups of breast cancer patients. With these findings, further evaluations are warranted of AE37 and GP2 vaccines given in combination and/or separately for specific subsets of breast cancer patients based on their disease biology.
Systematic development of a training program for healthcare professionals to improve communication about breast cancer genetic counseling with low health literate patients
Authors: van der Giessen Jeanine A. M. , Ausems Margreet G. E. M. , van den Muijsenbergh Maria E. T. C. , van Dulmen Sandra , Fransen Mirjam P.
Published: April 2020

There is a disproportionate underuse of genetic testing in breast cancer patients from lower education or migrant background. Within these groups, communication about referral to genetic counseling appears challenging due to limited health literacy and cultural barriers. Our aim was to develop and evaluate a training program for healthcare professionals (breast surgeons and specialized nurses), to increase effective communication. We systematically developed a blended training program based on patients’ and healthcare professionals’ needs and preferences. Prior to the training, we assessed awareness, knowledge and self-efficacy of healthcare professionals. Acceptability and usefulness of the training program were assessed directly after the training. Healthcare professionals (n = 65) from 17 hospitals showed moderate to high awareness and knowledge about the prevalence and impact of limited health literacy. They were aware of cultural factors that influence communication. However, they did not feel confident in recognizing limited health literacy and their self-efficacy to communicate effectively with these patients was low. The training program was rated as acceptable and useful. Healthcare professionals lack confidence to effectively communicate with patients with limited health literacy or migrant background. The training program offers opportunities to improve communication about referral to breast cancer genetic counseling.
M1 But Not M0 Extracellular Vesicles Induce Polarization of RAW264.7 Macrophages Via the TLR4-NFκB Pathway In Vitro
Authors: Shi Yulong , Luo Peng , Wang Weikang , Horst Klemens , Bläsius Felix , Relja Borna , Xu Ding , Hildebrand Frank , Greven Johannes
Published: April 2020

Abstract

In response to different stimuli (e.g., infections), naive macrophages polarize into M1 macrophages, which have the potential to secrete numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines and extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are important mediators of intercellular communication. Via horizontal transfer, EVs transport various molecules (e.g., proteins, DNA, and RNA) to target cells. This in vitro study elucidated that M1-EVs from macrophages induced by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 24 h (M1), but not M0-EVs from untreated macrophages (M0), shifted M0 into M1 phenotype via activating the nuclear factor-κB pathway. The characteristics of these EVs were assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and a western blot assay. RAW 264.7 cells were incubated with M1-EVs (experimental group) or PBS (sham group) or M0-EVs (control group) for 24 h. The viability, change of shape, and phenotype differentiation of the macrophages were identified by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence staining. The TLR4-NFκB pathway of RAW264.7 macrophages was assessed by a western blot assay. M1-EVs but not M0-EVs were incorporated by the RAW264.7 cells and directly induced polarization of RAW264.7 macrophages to M1 macrophages. This polarization was demonstrated by significant upregulation of the M1 macrophage marker CD86 in the experimental group (49.93 ± 5.0%) as compared with that in the control and sham groups (1.22% and 1.46%, respectively) and significant upregulation of iNOS in the experimental group (75 ± 5.0%) as compared with that in the control and sham groups (0%). Furthermore, cell viability was higher (1.3 times) in the experimental group as compared with that in both the sham and control groups. The regulatory mechanism of M1-EVs on RAW 264.7 macrophages polarization and activation was triggered by the activation of the TLR4-NFκB signaling pathway. Based on our observations, we conclude that M1-EVs play an important role in the M1 macrophage auto-polarizing loop. These data clearly demonstrate an important role for macrophage-derived EVs in cellular differentiation. Further studies are needed to elucidate the potential of these EVs in the modulation of inflammatory stimuli.
Territorial Ironies: Deservingness as a Struggle for Migrant Legitimacy in Belgium
Authors: van Meeteren Masja , Sur Malini
Published: April 2020

This article ethnographically examines the everyday lives and collective activism of undocumented migrants in Belgium as they await the results of asylum appeals and regularisation applications. We show how the values emphasised by state-led migrant legalisation regimes contrast with undocumented migrants’ narratives of their own worthiness. In foregrounding deservingness as a moral and legal threshold, we argue that the Belgian nation-state responds to undocumented migrants by enforcing and implementing citizenship policies that persistently keep them on the fringes of legitimacy and recognition. The discursive constructions of ‘good citizens’ that undocumented migrants embody and make claims to in Belgium extend to and envelop the lives of undocumented migrants in Europe in general.
Dexmedetomidine had neuroprotective effects on hippocampal neuronal cells via targeting lncRNA SHNG16 mediated microRNA-10b-5p/BDNF axis
Authors: Wang Li , Liu Weihua , Zhang Yanjun , Hu Zhanfei , Guo Hao , Lv Jingshu , Du Hongyin
Published: April 2020

Dexmedetomidine (DEX), a highly selective alpha2 adrenergic receptor agonist, is a commonly used anesthetic drug in surgical procedures. Previous studies have indicated that DEX exerts neuroprotective effects while the detailed mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Here, we aim to study the role of lncRNA SHNG16 in DEX-induced brain protection and its underlying molecular mechanism. The rats underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery and oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD)-treated HT22 hippocampal neurons were treated with DEX, respectively. CCK8 was used to evaluate cell viability. sh-SHNG16 as well as miR-10b-5p mimics were transfected into hippocampal neurons to further explore the bio-function of SNHG16 and miR-10b-5p in vitro. Furthermore, the interactions between SHNG16 and miR-10b-5p, miR-10b-5p and BDNF gene were confirmed by dual-luciferase report assay. Our data revealed that DEX attenuated neurological damage of the MCAO rats and also increased the cell viability of the neurons significantly. Besides, expression of SHNG16 and BDNF were both downregulated while miR-10b-5p was upregulated in MCAO brain tissues or OGD treated neurons. DEX inhibited miR-10b-5p expression but increased SHNG16 and BDNF levels with a dosage effect. After transfection with sh-SHNG16 or miR-10b-5p mimics, the expression of BDNF protein was downregulated, accompanied with decreased neuron viability. Dual-luciferase assay showed that SHNG16 targeted on miR-10b-5p, which also could bind directly to the 3′-UTR sites of BDNF and negatively regulate its expression. In conclusion, DEX exerts neuroprotective in ischemic stroke via improving neuron damage, the underlying mechanism may be upregulating SHNG16 and BDNF via sponging miR-10b-5p.
‘For good measure’: data gaps in a big data world
Authors: Giest Sarah , Samuels Annemarie
Published: April 2020

Policy and data scientists have paid ample attention to the amount of data being collected and the challenge for policymakers to use and utilize it. However, far less attention has been paid towards the quality and coverage of this data specifically pertaining to minority groups. The paper makes the argument that while there is seemingly more data to draw on for policymakers, the quality of the data in combination with potential known or unknown data gaps limits government’s ability to create inclusive policies. In this context, the paper defines primary, secondary, and unknown data gaps that cover scenarios of knowingly or unknowingly missing data and how that is potentially compensated through alternative measures. Based on the review of the literature from various fields and a variety of examples highlighted throughout the paper, we conclude that the big data movement combined with more sophisticated methods in recent years has opened up new opportunities for government to use existing data in different ways as well as fill data gaps through innovative techniques. Focusing specifically on the representativeness of such data, however, shows that data gaps affect the economic opportunities, social mobility, and democratic participation of marginalized groups. The big data movement in policy may thus create new forms of inequality that are harder to detect and whose impact is more difficult to predict.
Deriving Niger’s Demographic and Education Future to 2062 with Stakeholders: Which Results?
Authors: Goujon Anne , Marois Guillaume , Sabourin Patrick
Published: April 2020

Niger has the fastest population growth in the world while being among the least developed countries. With an average fertility above seven children per woman in the last decades, rapid population growth will continue in the medium to long term representing a planning challenge for Niger's development whose actual population is likely to double within the next two decades. At the same time, socio-economic variables whether in terms of health, wealth, and education levels are lagging behind, also relatively to many countries in sub-Saharan Africa. While both demographic and education variables occupy a central position in the government strategy, they are not necessarily linked. However, the future of Niger will largely be a reflection of its ability to meet both challenges. Within a project piloted by the Ministry of Planning and funded by the United Nations Children’s Fund, we have derived together with local experts and stakeholders narratives about the possible future of Niger. These were further translated into five scenarios with assumptions about different future paths of demographic and educational development for Niger that were used to project the population, also at sub-national level, using multi-state population projection models with the aim to inform policy. This article reports some projection results related to educational and demographic developments.