bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Top quark pair production near threshold: single/double distributions and mass determination
Authors: Ju Wan-Li , Wang Guoxing , Wang Xing , Xu Xiaofeng , Xu Yongqi , Yang Li Lin
Published: July 2020

Abstract

We investigate top quark pair production near the threshold where the pair invariant mass

$$ {M}_{t\overline{t}} $$

M

t

t
¯

approaches 2m

t
, which provides sensitive observables to extract the top quark mass m

t
. Using the effective field theory methods, we derive a factorization and resummation formula for kinematic distributions in the threshold limit up to the next-to- leading power, which resums higher order Coulomb corrections to all orders in the strong coupling constant. Our formula is similar to those in the literature but differs in several important aspects. We apply our formula to the

$$ {M}_{t\overline{t}} $$

M

t

t
¯

distribution, as well as to the double differential cross section with respect to

$$ {M}_{t\overline{t}} $$

M

t

t
¯

and the rapidity of the

$$ t\overline{t} $$

t

t
¯

pair. We find that the resummation effects significantly increase the cross sections near the threshold, and lead to predictions better compatible with experimental data than the fixed-order ones. We demonstrate that incorporating resummation effects in the top quark mass determination can shift the extracted value of m

t
by as large as 1.4 GeV. The shift is much larger than the estimated uncertainties in previous experimental studies, and leads to a value of the top quark pole mass more consistent with the current world average.
Symmetry enhancement and duality walls in 5d gauge theories
Authors: Garozzo Ivan , Mekareeya Noppadol , Sacchi Matteo , Zafrir Gabi
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Gauge theories in four dimensions can exhibit interesting low energy phenomena, such as infrared enhancements of global symmetry. We explore a class of 4d

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 gauge theories arising from a construction that is motivated by duality walls in 5d gauge theories. Their quiver descriptions bear a resemblance to 4d theories obtained by compactifying 6d

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= (1, 0) superconformal field theories on a torus with fluxes, but with lower number of flavours and different number of gauge singlets and superpotentials. One of the main features of these theories is that they exhibit a flavour symmetry enhancement, and with supersymmetry enhancement for certain models, in the infrared. Properties of the superconformal fixed points of such theories are investigated in detail.
On the infrared divergence and global colour in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 Yang-Mills theory
Authors: Ding Su Yu , Karczmarek Joanna , Semenoff Gordon W.
Published: July 2020

Abstract

The $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 superconformal Yang-Mills theory on flat four-dimensional Minkowski space is a de-confined gauge theory in the sense that the string tension for fundamental representation coloured quarks vanishes. In fact, static fundamental representation quarks which lie in certain half-BPS super-multiplets do not interact at all. An interesting question asks whether such quarks would carry a well-defined global colour charge which, when the gauge is fixed, should have the status of an internal symmetry. We shall present a simple paradigmatic model which suggests that the answer to this question lies in the way in which infrared divergences are dealt with.
ORP/Osh mediate cross-talk between ER-plasma membrane contact site components and plasma membrane SNAREs
Authors: Weber-Boyvat Marion , Trimbuch Thorsten , Shah Saundarya , Jäntti Jussi , Olkkonen Vesa M. , Rosenmund Christian
Published: July 2020

OSBP-homologous proteins (ORPs, Oshp) are lipid binding/transfer proteins. Several ORP/Oshp localize to membrane contacts between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the plasma membrane, where they mediate lipid transfer or regulate lipid-modifying enzymes. A common way in which they target contacts is by binding to the ER proteins, VAP/Scs2p, while the second membrane is targeted by other interactions with lipids or proteins.

We have studied the cross-talk of secretory SNARE proteins and their regulators with ORP/Oshp and VAPA/Scs2p at ER-plasma membrane contact sites in yeast and murine primary neurons. We show that Oshp-Scs2p interactions depend on intact secretory SNARE proteins, especially Sec9p. SNAP-25/Sec9p directly interact with ORP/Osh proteins and their disruption destabilized the ORP/Osh proteins, associated with dysfunction of VAPA/Scs2p. Deleting OSH1-3 in yeast or knocking down ORP2 in primary neurons reduced the oligomerization of VAPA/Scs2p and affected their multiple interactions with SNAREs. These observations reveal a novel cross-talk between the machineries of ER-plasma membrane contact sites and those driving exocytosis.
Dimethyl-2-oxoglutarate improves redox balance and mitochondrial function in muscle pericytes of individuals with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Faulkner Ashton , Tamiato Anita , Cathery William , Rampin Andrea , Caravaggi Carlo Maria , Jover Eva , Allen Steve , Mellor Harry , Hauton David , Heather Lisa C. , Spinetti Gaia , Madeddu Paolo
Published: July 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Treatment of vascular complications of diabetes remains inadequate. We reported that muscle pericytes (MPs) from limb muscles of vascular patients with diabetes mellitus display elevated levels of oxidative stress causing a dysfunctional phenotype. Here, we investigated whether treatment with dimethyl-2-oxoglutarate (DM-2OG), a tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolite with antioxidant properties, can restore a healthy metabolic and functional phenotype.

Methods

MPs were isolated from limb muscles of diabetes patients with vascular disease (D-MPs) and from non-diabetic control participants (ND-MPs). Metabolic status was assessed in untreated and DM-2OG-treated (1 mmol/l) cells using an extracellular flux analyser and anion-exchange chromatography–mass spectrometry (IC-MS/MS). Redox status was measured using commercial kits and IC-MS/MS, with antioxidant and metabolic enzyme expression assessed by quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. Myogenic differentiation and proliferation and pericyte–endothelial interaction were assessed as functional readouts.

Results

D-MPs showed mitochondrial dysfunction, suppressed glycolytic activity and reduced reactive oxygen species-buffering capacity, but no suppression of antioxidant systems when compared with ND-MP controls. DM-2OG supplementation improved redox balance and mitochondrial function, without affecting glycolysis or antioxidant systems. Nonetheless, this was not enough for treated D-MPs to regain the level of proliferation and myogenic differentiation of ND-MPs. Interestingly, DM-2OG exerted a positive effect on pericyte–endothelial cell interaction in the co-culture angiogenesis assay, independent of the diabetic status.

Conclusions/interpretation

These novel findings support the concept of using DM-2OG supplementation to improve pericyte redox balance and mitochondrial function, while concurrently allowing for enhanced pericyte–endothelial crosstalk. Such effects may help to prevent or slow down vasculopathy in skeletal muscles of people with diabetes.
Topology optimization accounting for surface layer effects
Authors: Suresh Shyam , Thore Carl-Johan , Torstenfelt Bo , Klarbring Anders
Published: July 2020

Metal AM (additive manufacturing) components are generally inhomogeneous and have different microstructure in the bulk compared with (contour) regions near the surface. This, as well as rough as-built surfaces, affects mechanical properties. In this paper, we develop a topology optimization method that considers such inhomogeneities. The method is a direct extension of standard density-based methods using linear filtering for regularization, and a second filtering of the design variables is used to identify a surface layer, the thickness of which is given by the filter radius. Domain extension is used in order to properly identify such layers at the boundary of the design domain. The method is generally applicable but is demonstrated for stiffness optimization. Both two- and three-dimensional problems are treated. A general property of the method is that the topological complexity is reduced, i.e. the optimized designs get fewer and thicker structural members as the width of the surface layer is increased.
Reaction time and brake pedal force after total knee replacement: timeframe for return to car driving
Authors: Kirschbaum Stephanie , Fuchs Michael , Otto Marion , Gwinner Clemens , Perka Carsten , Sentürk Ufuk , Pfitzner Tilman
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This prospective cohort study aimed to examine objective and subjective parameters in patients who underwent total knee replacement (TKR) to assess from when on driving a car can be deemed safe again.

Methods

Thirty patients (16 women, 14 men, age 66 ± 11 years) who received TKR of the right knee and 45 healthy controls (26 women, 19 men, age 32 ± 9 years) were asked to perform an emergency braking manoeuvre using a driving simulator. Brake pedal force (BPF), neuronal reaction time (NRT), brake reaction time (BRT), and subjective parameters (pain, subjective driving ability) were measured preoperatively as well as 5 days, 3–4, and 6 weeks after TKR.

Results

Preoperative NRT was 506 ± 162 ms, BRT 985 ± 356 ms, and BPF 614 ± 292 N. NRT increased to 561 ± 218 ms, BRT to 1091 ± 404 ms and BPF decreased to 411 ± 191 N 5 days after TKR. Three weeks after surgery, NRT was 581 ± 164 ms and BRT 1013 ± 260 ms, while BPF increased to 555 ± 200 N. Only BPF showed significant differences (p < 0.01). In week 6, all parameters were restored to baseline levels; patients showed significant pain decrease and evaluated their driving ability as “good” again.

Conclusion

BPF was the only parameter displaying a significant postoperative decrease. However, preoperative patients’ baseline levels and subjective confidence in driving ability were only reached 6 weeks after the operation. These results indicate that a minimum waiting period of 6 weeks should be considered before patients can safely participate in road traffic at their individual preoperative safety level again.

Level of evidence

II.
Identification of bacteria and fungi inhabiting fruiting bodies of Burgundy truffle (Tuber aestivum Vittad.)
Authors: Perlińska-Lenart Urszula , Piłsyk Sebastian , Gryz Elżbieta , Turło Jadwiga , Hilszczańska Dorota , Kruszewska Joanna S.
Published: July 2020

Tuber species may be regarded as complex microhabitats hosting diverse microorganisms inside their fruiting bodies. Here, we investigated the structure of microbial communities inhabiting the gleba of wild growing (in stands) T. aestivum, using Illumina sequencing and culture-based methods. The two methods used in combination allowed to extract more information on complex microbiota of Tuber aestivum gleba. Analysis of the V3–V4 region of 16S rDNA identified nine phyla of bacteria present in the gleba of T. aestivum ascomata, mostly Proteobacteria from the family Bradyrhizobiaceae. Our results ideally match the earlier data for other Tuber species where the family Bradyrhizobiaceae was the most represented. The ITS1 region of fungal rDNA represented six alien fungal species belonging to three phyla. To complement the metagenomic analysis, cultivable fungi and bacteria were obtained from the gleba of the same T. aestivum fruiting bodies. The identified fungi mostly belong to the phylum Basidiomycota and same to Ascomycota. Analysis of cultivable bacteria revealed that all the specimens were colonized by different strains of Bacillus. Fungal community inhabiting T. aestivum fruiting bodies was never shown before.
68Ga-labelled desferrioxamine-B for bacterial infection imaging
Authors: Petrik Milos , Umlaufova Eva , Raclavsky Vladislav , Palyzova Andrea , Havlicek Vladimir , Pfister Joachim , Mair Christian , Novy Zbynek , Popper Miroslav , Hajduch Marian , Decristoforo Clemens
Published: July 2020

Purpose

With the increase of especially hospital-acquired infections, timely and accurate diagnosis of bacterial infections is crucial for effective patient care. Molecular imaging has the potential for specific and sensitive detection of infections. Siderophores are iron-specific chelators recognized by specific bacterial transporters, representing one of few fundamental differences between bacterial and mammalian cells. Replacing iron by gallium-68 without loss of bioactivity is possible allowing molecular imaging by positron emission tomography (PET). Here, we report on the preclinical evaluation of the clinically used siderophore, desferrioxamine-B (Desferal®, DFO-B), radiolabelled with68Ga for imaging of bacterial infections.

Methods

In vitro characterization of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B included partition coefficient, protein binding and stability determination. Specific uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B was tested in vitro in different microbial cultures. In vivo biodistribution was studied in healthy mice and dosimetric estimation for human setting performed. PET/CT imaging was carried out in animal infection models, representing the most common pathogens.

Results

DFO-B was labelled with68Ga with high radiochemical purity and displayed hydrophilic properties, low protein binding and high stability in human serum and PBS. The high in vitro uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B in selected strains ofPseudomonas aeruginosa,Staphylococcus aureusandStreptococcus agalactiaecould be blocked with an excess of iron-DFO-B. [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B showed rapid renal excretion and minimal retention in blood and other organs in healthy mice. Estimated human absorbed dose was 0.02 mSv/MBq. PET/CT images of animal infection models displayed high and specific accumulation of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B in bothP. aeruginosaandS. aureusinfections with excellent image contrast. No uptake was found in sterile inflammation, heat-inactivatedP. aeruginosaorS. aureusandEscherichia colilacking DFO-B transporters.

Conclusion

DFO-B can be easily radiolabelled with68Ga and displayed suitable in vitro characteristics and excellent pharmacokinetics in mice. The high and specific uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B byP. aeruginosaandS. aureuswas confirmed both in vitro and in vivo, proving the potential of [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B for specific imaging of bacterial infections. As DFO-B is used in clinic for many years and the estimated radiation dose is lower than for other68Ga-labelled radiopharmaceuticals, we believe that [68Ga]Ga-DFO-B has a great potential for clinical translation.
Open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures in patients of old age
Authors: Rommens Pol Maria , Schwab Roland , Handrich Kristin , Arand Charlotte , Wagner Daniel , Hofmann Alexander
Published: July 2020

Material and methods

There is an ongoing debate on which treatment for acetabular fractures in elderly patients is the most appropriate. This study was set up to identify the role of open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures in persons of old age.

We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts and radiological data of all patients older than 65 years, who suffered an isolated acetabular fracture and were admitted in our Department between 2010 and 2014 (5-year period). Complications, outcome and mortality were recorded. Of all surviving patients, quality of life (QoL), mobility and independence were graded with European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level (EQ-5D-3L), European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-5D-VAS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) and Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT).

Results

Seventy patients could be identified. There were 52 men (74%) and 18 women (26%) with a median age of 79.0 years (range: 65–104 years). Forty-six patients (66%) had been treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), 24 (34%) conservatively. There were negative predictive factors—subchondral impaction, damage to the femoral head and multiple fragments—in 54% of the operative group. With ORIF, an anatomical reduction could be achieved in 27 patients (59%), an acceptable in 18 (39%) and a poor in one (2%). At follow-up, 18 patients (26%) had died and 23 (33%) were not able to participate. The follow-up rate of the surviving operatively treated patients was 77%. Eleven of 46 operated patients (24%) needed a conversion to a total hip arthroplasty (THA). All patients undergoing conversion had imperfect reduction after surgery. No patient in the non-operative group underwent conversion to THA during follow-up. The median follow-up time of operatively treated patients without conversion (n = 17) was 30 months (range, 16–73 months), of patients with THA (n = 9) 30 months after conversion (range, 17–55 months). Quality of reduction correlated to QoL, mobility and independence in all recorded parameters. Patients with secondary THA had similar good outcomes as patients after ORIF without later conversion. Men had better outcome than women.

Conclusion

ORIF of acetabular fractures in patients of old age results in excellent outcomes at short-term follow-up when anatomical reduction can be achieved. In case of negative predictive factors, ORIF cannot be regarded as a definitive solution, rather as the construction of a stable socket for secondary THA. The decision of therapy should be made dependent on pre-operative radiographic parameters.
A simplified diagnostic work-up for the detection of gestational diabetes mellitus in low resources settings: achievements and challenges
Authors: Putoto Giovanni , Somigliana Edgardo , Olivo Federico , Ponte Simona , Koroma Michael Momoh , Citterio Federica , Orsi Michele , Pisani Enzo , Pilon Marica , Manenti Fabio , Segafredo Giulia
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Modern strategies for the screening and diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) rely on universal Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). However, they are unsustainable in low-income countries. In this study, we aimed at assessing the feasibility of a simplified diagnostic policy.

Methods

The study took place in an urban referral hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone. During an 11-month period, pregnant women were offered capillary blood test for glucose assessment. They could be screened at any time during pregnancy. GDM was diagnosed if fasting glucose was ≥ 92 mg/dl or if the OGTT was positive. The latter was prescribed only to women presenting after 24 weeks’ gestation with at least one risk factor for GDM and fasting capillary glucose between 85 and 91 mg/dl. A definitive diagnosis required confirmation to this aim, women with values above the thresholds were invited to refer the next working day for repeating the test after fasting overnight.

Results

Overall, 7827 women were referred for screening, of whom 6872 (87%) underwent at least one capillary glucose assessment. However, 895 of those who had a positive test did not return for confirmation. Overall, a definite assessment could be done in 5799 subjects corresponding to 76% (95% CI 75–77%) of those eligible. GDM was diagnosed in 128 women (1.9%, 95% CI 1.6–2.2%). Based on an expected confirmation rate of 22% (calculated from those who referred for confirmation) in the 895 women who did not come back, one could infer that GDM would have been diagnosed in additional 197 women, raising the prevalence to 4.7% (95% CI 4.2–5.3%).

Conclusion

Three quarters of subjects could be assessed with our approach. Data also suggest that GDM is not rare even if identification of affected cases remains challenging.
Sex and freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tosserams Anouk , Mazaheri Masood , Vart Priya , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Nonnekes Jorik
Published: July 2020

Objective

It is unknown how sex affects the prevalence of freezing of gait (FOG). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to establish the sex-specific prevalence of FOG in persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In addition, we investigated whether men and women were represented accurately in intervention trials targeting FOG.

Methods

We queried the EMBASE and PubMed databases and identified 2637 articles. Of these, 16 epidemiological studies were included in the meta-analysis, and 51 intervention studies were included in the comparative analysis.

Results

In total, 5702 persons were included in the final meta-analysis of epidemiological studies. The pooled estimate of overall FOG prevalence was 43% [95% CI 33–53%]. We found no difference in FOG prevalence between men [44% (34–54%)] and women [42% (31–52%)] with PD. However, women were markedly underrepresented in intervention trials targeting FOG, with an average proportion of only 29.6% of women in trial populations. The percentage of women included in trials was similar across intervention types but differed greatly across geographical regions.

Conclusion

Sex is not a predictor of FOG. This could aid clinicians in counseling persons with PD about FOG. Importantly, a global effort is needed to include more women into clinical trials. Given the skewed distribution of men and women included in intervention trials targeting FOG, caution might be warranted when extrapolating results from FOG trials to women.
Prevalence and phenology of fine root endophyte colonization across populations of Lycopodiella inundata
Authors: Kowal Jill , Arrigoni Elena , Serra Jordi , Bidartondo Martin
Published: July 2020

Mycorrhizal fungi are critical components of terrestrial habitats and agroecosystems. Recently, Mucoromycotina fine root endophyte fungi (MucFRE) were found to engage in nutritional mutualism with Lycopodiella inundata, which belongs to one of the earliest vascular plant lineages known to associate with MucFRE. The extent to which this mutualism plays a role in resilient plant populations can only be understood by examining its occurrence rate and phenological patterns. To test for prevalence and seasonality in colonization, we examined 1305 individual L. inundata roots from 275 plants collected during spring and autumn 2019 across 11 semi-natural heathlands in Britain and the Netherlands. We quantified presence/absence of fine root endophyte (FRE) hyphae and vesicles and explored possible relationships between temperature and precipitation in the months immediately before sampling. Fine root endophyte hyphae were dominant in all of the examined heathlands, and every colonized root had FRE in both cortical cells and root hairs. However, we found significant differences in colonization between the two seasons at every site. Overall, 14% of L. inundata roots were colonized in spring (2.4% with vesicles) compared with 86% in autumn (7.6% with vesicles). Colonization levels between populations were also significantly different, correlating with temperature and precipitation, suggesting some local environments may be more conducive to root and related hyphal growth. These marked seasonal differences in host-plant colonization suggest that results about FRE from single time point collections should be carefully interpreted. Our findings are relevant to habitat restoration, species conservation plans, agricultural bio-inoculation treatments, and microbial diversity studies.
Botulinum toxin therapy in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: patient perceptions from a German cohort
Authors: Dressler Dirk , Adib Saberi Fereshte
Published: July 2020

The SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic has provoked drastic countermeasures including shutdowns of public services. We wanted to describe the effects of a 6 week shutdown of a large German botulinum toxin (BT) outpatient clinics on patients and their well-being. 45 patients (age 61.9 ± 9.8 years, 29 females, 16 males) receiving BT therapy (319.3 ± 201.9MU-equivalent, treatment duration 8.3 ± 5.5 years) were surveyed with a standardised questionnaire. The shutdown delayed BT therapy by 6.6 ± 2.3 weeks. 93% of the patients noticed increased muscle cramps and 82% increased pain reducing their quality of life by 40.2 ± 19.5%. For 23 patients with cervical dystonia this reduction was 41.1 ± 18.3%, for 3 patients with blepharospasm 33.3 ± 15.3%, for 9 patients with spasticity 37.8 ± 15.6%, for 4 patients with pain conditions 37.4 ± 35.7% and for 3 patients with hemifacial spasm 27.5 ± 17.1%. After the shutdown 66% of patients perceived BT therapy as more important than before, 32% perceived it as unchanged. For all patients long-term availability of BT therapy was very important or important. 98% of the patients perceived the shutdown as inadequate and felt their patient rights not respected. The shutdown confirmed the considerable burden of disease caused by dystonia, spasticity, hemifacial spasm and various pain conditions and the importance of BT therapy to treat them. Any shutdown severely affects these patients and needs to be avoided.
Economic Evaluations of Public Health Interventions to Improve Mental Health and Prevent Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Feldman Inna , Gebreslassie Mihretab , Sampaio Filipa , Nystrand Camilla , Ssegonja Richard
Published: July 2020

To review the literature on economic evaluations of public health interventions targeting prevention of mental health problems and suicide, to support evidence based societal resource allocation. A systematic review of economic evaluations within mental health and suicide prevention was conducted including studies published between January 2000 and November 2018. The studies were identified through Medline, PsychINFO, Web of Science, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database and Health Technology Assessment. The quality of relevant studies and the transferability of their results were assessed using a criterion set out by the Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment. Nineteen studies of moderate to high quality were included in this review, which evaluated 18 interventions in mental health and four interventions in suicide prevention. Fourteen (63%) of all interventions were cost-effective based on the conclusions from original papers. None of the studies that evaluated suicide prevention was of high quality. The interventions largely focused on psychological interventions at school, the workplace and within elderly care as well as screening and brief interventions in primary care. Nine studies (around 50% of included articles) had a high potential for transferability to the Swedish context. Public health interventions aiming to improve mental health have a high potential to be economically beneficial to society, but high-quality evidence on the cost-effectiveness of suicide prevention is limited.
Identification of candidate mediators of chemoresponse in breast cancer through therapy-driven selection of somatic variants
Authors: Al Amri Waleed S. , Baxter Diana E. , Hanby Andrew M. , Stead Lucy F. , Verghese Eldo T. , Thorne James L. , Hughes Thomas A.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

More than a third of primary breast cancer patients are treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy, typically without guidance from predictive markers. Increased use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy provides opportunities for identification of molecules associated with treatment response, by comparing matched tumour samples before and after therapy. Our hypothesis was that somatic variants of increased prevalence after therapy promote resistance, while variants with reduced prevalence cause sensitivity.

Methods

We performed systematic analyses of matched pairs of cancer exomes from primary oestrogen receptor-positive/HER2-negative breast cancers (n = 6) treated with neoadjuvant epirubicin/cyclophosphamide. We identified candidate genes as mediators of chemotherapy response by consistent subclonal changes in somatic variant prevalence through therapy, predicted variant impact on gene function, and enrichment of specific functional pathways. Influence of candidate genes on breast cancer outcome was tested using publicly available breast cancer expression data (n = 1903).

Results

We identified 14 genes as the strongest candidate mediators of chemoresponse: TCHH, MUC17, ARAP2, FLG2, ABL1, CENPF, COL6A3, DMBT1, ITGA7, PLXNA1, S100PBP, SYNE1, ZFHX4, and CACNA1C. Genes contained somatic variants showing prevalence changes in up to 4 patients, with up to 3 being predicted as damaging. Genes coding for extra-cellular matrix components or related signalling pathways were significantly over-represented among variants showing prevalence changes. Expression of 5 genes (TCHH, ABL1, CENPF, S100PBP, and ZFHX4) was significantly associated with patient survival.

Conclusions

Genomic analysis of paired pre- and post-therapy samples resulting from neoadjuvant therapy provides a powerful method for identification of mediators of response. Genes we identified should be assessed as predictive markers or targets in chemo-sensitization.
Economic valuation of climate change–induced mortality: age dependent cold and heat mortality in the Netherlands
Authors: Botzen W. J. W. , Martinius M. L. , Bröde P. , Folkerts M. A. , Ignjacevic P. , Estrada F. , Harmsen C. N. , Daanen H. A. M.
Published: July 2020

This study examines the impacts of climate change on future mortality in the Netherlands and the related economic costs. Our methods account for changes in both cold- and heat-related mortality for different age classes, the time dynamics associated with temperature-related mortality, demographic change and the urban heat island effect. Results show that heat and cold impacts on mortality vary considerably between age classes, with older people being more vulnerable to temperature extremes. The sensitivity of mortality to temperature is higher on hot (4.6%/°C) than cold (2.1%/°C) days for the most vulnerable group (≥ 80 years), and extreme temperatures have long time lags on mortality, especially in the cold. A main finding is that climate change is expected to first decrease total net mortality in the Netherlands due to a dominant effect of less cold-related mortality, but this reverses over time under high warming scenarios, unless additional adaptation measures are taken. The economic valuation of these total net mortality changes indicates that climate change will result in net benefits of up to €2.3 billion using the Value of a Statistical Life Year and €14.5 billion using the Value of a Statistical Life approaches in 2050, while this changes over time in net economic costs under high warming scenarios that can reach up to €17.6 billion in 2085. Implementing adaptation policies that reduce the negative impacts of warming on mortality in the heat can turn these net costs into net benefits by achieving a continued dominating effect of reduced mortality in the cold.
The Effect of Separation Distance Between Informal Dwellings on Fire Spread Rates Based on Experimental Data and Analytical Equations
Authors: Cicione Antonio , Walls Richard , Sander Zara , Flores Natalia , Narayanan Vignesh , Stevens Sam , Rush David
Published: July 2020

Globally, the number of informal settlement dwellings are increasing rapidly; these areas are often associated with numerous large fires. Unfortunately, until recently, very little research has been focused on informal settlement fire issues leaving any attempts to improve their fire safety lacking the evidence base to support effective-decision making. However, over the past 4 years, a limited number of researchers have looked at better understanding these fires through full-scale experimentation and numerical modelling; starting to provide the necessary evidence base and future research directions. It is with this background in mind that this paper seeks to provide a more fundamental understanding of the effect of dwelling separation distance on informal settlement fire spread based on full-scale experiments and analytical equations. In this paper two full-scale experiments were conducted. Both experiments consisted of multiple dwellings, with the main difference between the experiments being the separation distance. Fire spread times, heat release rates, door and window flow velocities, ceiling temperatures and incident heat fluxes were recorded and are reported for both experiments. Theoretical neutral planes are derived and compared to the experimental neutral planes, which show relatively good correlation. The paper continues by calculating the expected incident radiation and time-to-ignition, using the flux-time product method, of the two fire scenarios (i.e., the two experiments) through means of analytical equations, and these findings are compared to the experimental results. Through configuration factors, the paper shows the effect of separation distance, dwelling height and dwelling length on the times-to-ignition, where it is clear that the heat flux received by an adjacent dwelling decrease approximately exponentially as the distance between dwellings increases, and consequently, the time-to-ignition increases exponentially as the separation distance between dwellings increases.
«If you give them your little finger, they’ll tear off your entire arm»: losing trust in biobank research
Authors: Ursin Lars , Ytterhus Borgunn , Christensen Erik , Skolbekken John-Arne
Published: July 2020

Why do some people withdraw from biobank studies? To our knowledge, very few studies have been done on the reflections of biobank ex-participants. In this article, we report from such a study. 16 years ago, we did focus group interviews with biobank participants and ex-participants. We found that the two groups interestingly shared worries concerning the risks involved in possible novel uses of their biobank material, even though they drew opposite conclusions from their worries. Revisiting these interviews today reveals a remarkable relevance to present concerns, since the possible developments that worried ex-participants and participants 16 years ago now are becoming realities. Drawing on conceptual distinctions by sociologist and philosopher Niklas Luhmann, we argue that while ex-participants express a loss of trust in the biobank institution to manage the use of their biobank material in a legitimate way, remaining participants expressed confidence in the management of the biobank institution to secure their interests. This analysis brings out important aspects of emerging trends in biobank research participation.
Experimental method for creep characterization of polymeric foam materials in media immersion
Authors: Pilz Gerald , Guttmann Peter , Oesterreicher Florian , Pinter Gerald
Published: July 2020

Polymeric flexible foam materials are widely used as damping materials in structural applications primarily to reduce unwanted system vibrations and related noise generation. Due to the viscoelastic nature of polymers and high compressibility of soft polymeric foams, their damping quality is strongly dependent on the overall loading situation, which occasionally means complex mechanical loading scenarios combined with specific ambient service conditions. In the case of superimposed constant compressive loading the deformation of the damping components is basically dependent on the fundamental creep tendency of certain material type and is also strongly influenced by service temperature and the surrounding contact media. Thus the chosen test methodology for proper creep characterization has to reflect these major influencing parameters.

In this regard, a specific creep testing device was built up for the performance of small load compression creep experiments on soft foam specimens immersed in liquid media, which was mineral oil in the present study. Moreover, the thermo-mechanical behavior of the foam materials was investigated by dynamic-mechanical analysis (DMA). The resulting temperature-dependent modulus and damping characteristics showed a good correlation with the corresponding creep behavior, enabling a rough estimation of the creep tendency within corresponding temperature ranges.
Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery
Authors: Bettini Silvia , Belligoli Anna , Fabris Roberto , Busetto Luca
Published: July 2020

Bariatric surgery (BS) is today the most effective therapy for inducing long-term weight loss and for reducing comorbidity burden and mortality in patients with severe obesity. On the other hand, BS may be associated to new clinical problems, complications and side effects, in particular in the nutritional domain. Therefore, the nutritional management of the bariatric patients requires specific nutritional skills. In this paper, a brief overview of the nutritional management of the bariatric patients will be provided from pre-operative to post-operative phase. Patients with severe obesity often display micronutrient deficiencies when compared to normal weight controls. Therefore, nutritional status should be checked in every patient and correction of deficiencies attempted before surgery. At present, evidences from randomized and retrospective studies do not support the hypothesis that pre-operative weight loss could improve weight loss after BS surgery, and the insurance-mandated policy of a preoperative weight loss as a pre-requisite for admission to surgery is not supported by medical evidence. On the contrary, some studies suggest that a modest weight loss of 5–10% in the immediate preoperative period could facilitate surgery and reduce the risk of complications. Very low calories diet (VLCD) and very low calories ketogenic diets (VLCKD) are the most frequently used methods for the induction of a pre-operative weight loss today. After surgery, nutritional counselling is recommended in order to facilitate the adaptation of the eating habits to the new gastro-intestinal physiology. Nutritional deficits may arise according to the type of bariatric procedure and they should be prevented, diagnosed and eventually treated. Finally, specific nutritional problems, like dumping syndrome and reactive hypoglycaemia, can occur and should be managed largely by nutritional manipulation. In conclusion, the nutritional management of the bariatric patients requires specific nutritional skills and the intervention of experienced nutritionists and dieticians.
Managers’ work and behaviour patterns in profitable growth SMEs
Authors: Ahmadi Elena , Macassa Gloria , Larsson Johan
Published: July 2020

We investigated managers’ work and behaviour patterns in profitable growth small- and medium-sized Swedish companies, and considered how these patterns might be associated with good health outcomes. Specifically, we looked at hours worked by managers, proportion of time spent on working activities, and leadership behaviour orientation. We used a quantitative cross-sectional design and collected data via a standardized questionnaire that was answered by 133 top managers. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, linear regression, and compositional data analysis. Our results indicate that the managers worked long hours, which is a health risk both for them as individuals and for their organizations, but also that they engaged in work practices and leadership behaviours that were favourable for organizational health and for their employees. The managers spent a high proportion of their time in touring, which could be beneficial to organizational health, and exercised active leadership through behaviours that contribute to both employee health and company effectiveness. Comparing our results to other studies, we can observe that patterns of managers’ time use differ between small and large companies, confirming that the size of the firm is an important determinant of managerial work.
On the Origin and Evolution of the Material in 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Rubin Martin , Engrand Cécile , Snodgrass Colin , Weissman Paul , Altwegg Kathrin , Busemann Henner , Morbidelli Alessandro , Mumma Michael
Published: July 2020

Primitive objects like comets hold important information on the material that formed our solar system. Several comets have been visited by spacecraft and many more have been observed through Earth- and space-based telescopes. Still our understanding remains limited. Molecular abundances in comets have been shown to be similar to interstellar ices and thus indicate that common processes and conditions were involved in their formation. The samples returned by the Stardust mission to comet Wild 2 showed that the bulk refractory material was processed by high temperatures in the vicinity of the early sun. The recent Rosetta mission acquired a wealth of new data on the composition of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (hereafter 67P/C-G) and complemented earlier observations of other comets. The isotopic, elemental, and molecular abundances of the volatile, semi-volatile, and refractory phases brought many new insights into the origin and processing of the incorporated material. The emerging picture after Rosetta is that at least part of the volatile material was formed before the solar system and that cometary nuclei agglomerated over a wide range of heliocentric distances, different from where they are found today. Deviations from bulk solar system abundances indicate that the material was not fully homogenized at the location of comet formation, despite the radial mixing implied by the Stardust results. Post-formation evolution of the material might play an important role, which further complicates the picture. This paper discusses these major findings of the Rosetta mission with respect to the origin of the material and puts them in the context of what we know from other comets and solar system objects.
What’s in an agent?
Authors: Huyghe Richard , Wauquier Marine
Published: July 2020

This article investigates the morphological diversity of agent nouns (ANs) in French. It addresses the questions of which nouns form a semantically coherent class of ANs, what their morphological properties are, and whether these properties correlate with agentive subtypes. To deal with these issues, a distributional semantics approach is adopted. The investigation is based on the distributional study of monosemous deverbal ANs ending in -eur, and on the examination of word similarities in the French Wikipedia corpus. It is shown that French ANs as a homogeneous distributional class display a large variety of morphological profiles. ANs can be affixed, converted, compound nouns, as well as opaque and morphologically simple nouns. Agentive affixes are diverse and correlated to the selection of bases from different lexical categories and semantic types. It appears that agent meaning in the nominal domain is not necessarily imported from the verbal domain, but can develop directly in the semantic structure of nouns. In addition, a distinction between functional, occasional and behavioral ANs, depending on whether they denote agents with an occupational status, agents in a particular event, or agents with a tendency to act in a certain way, is proven to be distributionally relevant. This distinction applies to all ANs, possibly in correlation with specificities as regards morphological type, base and affix selection. The study illustrates that with a careful processing of linguistic data, distributional semantics can help answering basic research questions and support fine-grained theoretical distinctions.
The effects of feedback valance and progress monitoring on goal striving
Authors: Borovoi Leah , Schmidtke Kelly , Vlaev Ivo
Published: July 2020

The current paper explores how people’s goal strivings are influenced by feedback (positively valenced vs. negatively valenced), progress monitoring (remaining vs. accumulated) and goal specificity (vague vs. specific). Two laboratory-based experiments were performed. Experiment 1 reveals that, after receiving positively valenced feedback, participants who focus on accumulated progress show larger boosts in persistence than participants who focus on remaining progress. In contrast, after receiving negatively valenced feedback, participants who focus on remaining progress show larger boosts in persistence than participants who focus on accumulated progress. Experiment 2 extends the scope of the paper from understanding the effects of progress monitoring on goal striving to the effects goal specificity on goal striving. Experiment 2 shows that after receiving negatively valenced feedback, participants asked to consider specific goals (and so likely focus on remaining progress) show more persistence than participants asked to consider vague goals (and so likely focus on accumulated progress). These findings have important implications for motivation theory and applied practice.
Seismic AVO statistical inversion incorporating poroelasticity
Authors: Li Kun , Yin Xing-Yao , Zong Zhao-Yun , Lin Hai-Kun
Published: July 2020

Seismic amplitude variation with offset (AVO) inversion is an important approach for quantitative prediction of rock elasticity, lithology and fluid properties. With Biot–Gassmann’s poroelasticity, an improved statistical AVO inversion approach is proposed. To distinguish the influence of rock porosity and pore fluid modulus on AVO reflection coefficients, the AVO equation of reflection coefficients parameterized by porosity, rock-matrix moduli, density and fluid modulus is initially derived from Gassmann equation and critical porosity model. From the analysis of the influences of model parameters on the proposed AVO equation, rock porosity has the greatest influences, followed by rock-matrix moduli and density, and fluid modulus has the least influences among these model parameters. Furthermore, a statistical AVO stepwise inversion method is implemented to the simultaneous estimation of rock porosity, rock-matrix modulus, density and fluid modulus. Besides, the Laplace probability model and differential evolution, Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is utilized for the stochastic simulation within Bayesian framework. Models and field data examples demonstrate that the simultaneous optimizations of multiple Markov chains can achieve the efficient simulation of the posterior probability density distribution of model parameters, which is helpful for the uncertainty analysis of the inversion and sets a theoretical fundament for reservoir characterization and fluid discrimination.
Cathodal Cerebellar tDCS Combined with Visual Feedback Improves Balance Control
Authors: Emadi Andani Mehran , Villa-Sánchez Bernardo , Raneri Federico , Dametto Silvia , Tinazzi Michele , Fiorio Mirta
Published: July 2020

Balance control is essential to maintain a stable body position and to prevent falls. The aim of this study was to determine whether balance control could be improved by using cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and visual feedback in a combined approach. A total of 90 healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to six groups defined by the delivery of tDCS (cathodal or anodal or sham) and the provision or not of visual feedback on balance during the acquisition phase. tDCS was delivered over the cerebellar hemisphere ipsilateral to the dominant leg for 20 min at 2 mA during a unipedal stance task. Body sway (i.e., ankle angle and hip position) was measured as an overall maximal unit in anteroposterior and mediolateral direction, together with participant rating of perception of stability, before (baseline), during (acquisition), and after (final) the intervention. We found a reduction in body sway during the acquisition session when visual feedback alone was provided. When the visual feedback was removed (final session), however, body sway increased above baseline. Differently, the reduction in overall maximal body sway was maintained during the final session when the delivery of cathodal tDCS and visual feedback was combined. These findings suggest that cathodal tDCS may support the short-term maintenance of the positive effects of visual feedback on balance and provide the basis for a new approach to optimize balance control, with potential translational implications for the elderly and patients with impaired posture control.