bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory myofibroblastic bladder tumor with divergent behavior in a patient with spinal cord injury
Authors: Tsuboi Ichiro , Maruyama Yuki , Sadahira Takuya , Wada Koichiro , Ando Nobuyoshi , Mitsui Yosuke , Nishiyama Yasuhiro , Arata Ryoji , Araki Motoo , Nasu Yasutomo , Ono Noriaki
Published: May 2019

Introduction

An inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the bladder is rare. Some urothelial carcinoma with sarcomatoid changes may mimic an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor.

Case presentation

A 76‐year‐old man with indwelling urinary catheters because of a spinal cord injury presented with gross hematuria. Transurethral electrocoagulation and a resection were performed. A T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed a tumor and hematoma in the bladder diverticulum that pathologically resembled an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. This lesion was then removed en bloc by partial cystectomy. Histology showed a squamous cell carcinoma with sarcomatoid changes. After 4 months, a computed tomography showed the lesion had expanded outside the skin adjacent to the bladder.

Conclusion

Some cases of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors have a malignant course. Urologists therefore need to be aware of the possibility of rare cases of malignant bladder myofibroblasts.
Recent advances on organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite photodetectors with fast response
Authors: Zhao Yan , Li Chenglong , Shen Liang
Published: May 2019

In the last decade, optoelectronic devices based on organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHP) materials, which have unique advantages of direct bandgap, large absorption coefficient, low density of defects, long charge carrier lifetime, diffusion length, and solution processability, have traveled with traditional inorganic semiconductor devices. The state‐of‐the‐art OIHP photodetectors have contributed a comparable performance with Si and III‐V compound semiconductor based photodetectors. Large amount of efforts have been focused on improving sensitivity, broadening detection spectra, enlarging linear dynamic range. However, few reports emphasized the important parameter of response speed. In this review, we summarize the progress and applications of OIHP photodetectors with fast response. Based on photovoltaic and photoconductive‐type OIHP photodetectors, the working principle and key factors on determining response speed are systematically mentioned. Then, the research progress of response speed, which is composed of resistance‐capacitance (RC) time constant and charge carrier transit time is discussed in detail. Subsequently, considering the intrinsic flexibility of perovskite materials, we briefly discuss the flexible photodetectors. Finally, an outlook and potential rules for designing fast‐response OIHP photodetectors are further proposed.
Large‐area high quality PtSe2 thin film with versatile polarity
Authors: Jiang Wei , Wang Xudong , Chen Yan , Wu Guangjian , Ba Kun , Xuan Ningning , Sun Yangye , Gong Peng , Bao Jingxian , Shen Hong , Lin Tie , Meng Xiangjian , Wang Jianlu , Sun Zhengzong
Published: May 2019

Two‐dimensional (2D) materials have attracted increasing attention for their outstanding structural and electrical properties. However, for mass‐production of field effect transistors (FETs) and potential applications in integrated circuits, large‐area and uniform 2D thin films with high mobility, large on‐off ratio, and desired polarity are needed to synthesize firstly. Here, a transfer‐free growth method for platinum diselenide (PtSe2) films has been developed. The PtSe2 films have been synthesized with various thicknesses in centimeter‐sized scale. Typical FET made from a few layer PtSe2 show p‐type unipolar, with a high field‐effect hole mobility of 6.2 cm2 V−1 s−1 and an on‐off ratio of 5 × 103. The versatile semimetal‐unipolar‐ambipolar transition in synthesized PtSe2 films is also firstly observed as the thickness thinning. This work realizes the large‐scale preparation of PtSe2 with prominent electrical properties and provides a new strategy for polarity's modulation.
Systems Engineering Principles and Hypotheses
Authors: Watson Michael D.
Published: May 2019

The INCOSE Systems Engineering Principles Action Team has put forth a set of principles and hypotheses to articulate the basic concepts that guide systems engineering. The team based this work on a review of various sources of systems postulates, principles, and hypotheses identified in literature. They focused on the multi‐year work of the NASA Systems Engineering Research Consortium looking at the work of Ludwig Boltzmann and his postulates on gas distributions as an early example of how to characterize the interactions of complex systems. The INCOSE Systems Engineering Principles Action Team review has distilled the earlier works to the 15 principles and three hypotheses stated in this article. The principles define the domain of systems engineering as well as the system aspects and system influences that are of concern to the systems engineer. The hypotheses contain some of the seeds of a holistic mathematical basis for systems engineering.
Systems Engineering: Cracking the Code of Digital Transformation
Authors: Peterson Troy
Published: May 2019

While complex systems transform the landscape, the systems engineering discipline is also experiencing a transformation to a model‐based discipline. In alignment with this, the International Council on systems engineering (INCOSE) is strategically accelerating this transformation by building a broad community that promotes and advances model‐based methods to manage the high rate of change and complexity of systems today. This paper addresses contextual drivers for transformation, describes INCOSE activities aligned with accelerating the transformation, and makes the case that model‐based systems engineering can help businesses crack the code of Digital Transformation as it pertains to innovation.
Controlling Costs and Margins of Engineered Systems
Authors: Zhu Haifeng
Published: May 2019

Designing systems with adaptability in mind is useful in dealing with today's dynamic changes in technologies, markets, and user demands. This article summarizes recent work on adaptability studies for engineered systems. We first present the adaptability concept for engineered systems, and the evaluation of missions/requirements needed for this concept. We then review the improved design process and design methods for systems to achieve high adaptabilities. Finally, we show the potential impact of adaptability to procurement methods and risk management. We use a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) example to illustrate these processes and methods that help maximize mission performance, reduce cost, and increase competitive advantages for a manufacturing product.
Structuring the Problem Space for Model‐Based Systems Engineering
Authors: Wrigley J. Craig
Published: May 2019

Systems engineering is evolving from a largely text‐based endeavour towards a more graphical and model‐based approach. While modelling of the structural aspects of a system is well developed, the modelling of requirements is still evolving. This paper proposes a traceable method for transforming textual functional requirements or business activities into required behaviours and proposes a multiscale approach to refining the behavioural descriptions into “atomic” behavioural requirements which can be satisfied either by existing systems or which can form the basis for development of new subsystems.
MgSiO3 nanoparticle‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reactions in the synthesis of novel spiroindane‐1,3‐diones derived from substituted chalcones
Authors: Hegde Subramanya Gopal , Koodlur Lokesh , Reddy Suman Y. , Narayanarao Manjunatha
Published: May 2019

Employment of metal nanoparticles has been one of the most promising synthetic strategies for a number of chemical transformations. New spiroindane‐1,3‐diones were synthesized through [3 + 2] cycloaddition in moderate to high yields by a three‐component reaction of heterocyclic chalcone derivatives, ninhydrin, and sarcosine/L‐proline. The presence of heterogenous MgSiO3 nanoparticles (NPs) under microwave irradiation showed a robust effect in improving the yield of the desired products. Furthermore, the catalyst may be recovered and reused without significant loss of activity.
Unified reciprocity of dithiophosphate by dichalcogenophosph(in)ate ligands on copper hydride nanoclusters via ligand exchange reaction
Authors: Lin Po‐Yu , Li Dai‐Ying , Ho Feng‐Hsien , Liao Jian‐Hong , Barik Subrat Kumar , Liu C. W.
Published: May 2019

A structural study of ligand exchange on chalcogen‐passivated copper nanoclusters is far less developed. Herein, we report the synthesis of polyhydrido copper nanoclusters [Cu20H11{Se2P(O
iBu)2}9] (2) passivated by Se‐donor ligands via ligand replacement reaction on [Cu20H11{S2P(O
iPr)2}9] (1) with NH4[Se2P(O
iBu)2]. In parallel to the synthesis of 2, cluster [Cu20H11{S2P(CH2CH2Ph)2}9] (4) was produced by the ligand exchange reaction on a new derivative of 1, that is [Cu20H11{S2P(O
nPr)2}9] (3). Solid state structures of both clusters 2 and 4 were unequivocally established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies and cluster 4 epitomizes exceptional case to preserve both the shape and size of the nanocluster during the course of ligand exchange. Structurally precise cluster 2 is the second example where the copper hydride nanocluster is stabilized by Se‐donor ligands. The anatomy of 2 can be visualized as a twisted cuboctahedral Cu13 core, two triangular faces of which are capped by a Cu6 cupola and a single Cu atom along the C3 rotational axis.
Synthesis of Some Novel Thiadiazaphosphole, Oxazaphospholothiadiazaphosphole, Thiadiazaphosphinine, and Phosphonates Containing a 1,2,4‐Triazine Moiety
Authors: Abdel‐kariem Somaia M.
Published: May 2019

Synthesis of some novel organophosphorus compounds bearing 1,2,4‐triazinone moiety was achieved. The methodology depended on simple reactions between 4‐amino‐6‐methyl‐3‐sulfanyl‐1,2,4‐triazin‐5(4H)‐one (1) and variable phosphorus reagents such as phosphorus halides and phosphorus sulfides as well as phosphorous acid and its esters. These reactions were performed in proper solvents under mild conditions giving good yields of phosphorylated 1,2,4‐triazinones.
The genital tract and rectal microbiomes: their role in HIV susceptibility and prevention in women
Authors: Abdool Karim Salim S , Baxter Cheryl , Passmore Jo‐Ann S , McKinnon Lyle R , Williams Brent L
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Young women in sub‐Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by HIV, accounting for 25% of all new infections in 2017. Several behavioural and biological factors are known to impact a young woman's vulnerability for acquiring HIV. One key, but lesser understood, biological factor impacting vulnerability is the vaginal microbiome. This review describes the vaginal microbiome and examines its alterations, its influence on HIV acquisition as well as the efficacy of HIV prevention technologies, the role of the rectal microbiome in HIV acquisition, advances in technologies to study the microbiome and some future research directions.

Discussion

Although the composition of each woman's vaginal microbiome is unique, a microbiome dominated by Lactobacillus species is generally associated with a “healthy” vagina. Disturbances in the vaginal microbiota, characterized by a shift from a low‐diversity, Lactobacillus‐dominant state to a high‐diversity non‐Lactobacillus‐dominant state, have been shown to be associated with a range of adverse reproductive health outcomes, including increasing the risk of genital inflammation and HIV acquisition. Gardnerella vaginalis and Prevotella bivia have been shown to contribute to both HIV risk and genital inflammation. In addition to impacting HIV risk, the composition of the vaginal microbiome affects the vaginal concentrations of some antiretroviral drugs, particularly those administered intravaginally, and thereby their efficacy as pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. Although the role of rectal microbiota in HIV acquisition in women is less well understood, the composition of this compartment's microbiome, particularly the presence of species of bacteria from the Prevotellaceae family likely contribute to HIV acquisition. Advances in technologies have facilitated the study of the genital microbiome's structure and function. While next‐generation sequencing advanced knowledge of the diversity and complexity of the vaginal microbiome, the emerging field of metaproteomics, which provides important information on vaginal bacterial community structure, diversity and function, is further shedding light on functionality of the vaginal microbiome and its relationship with bacterial vaginosis (BV), as well as antiretroviral PrEP efficacy.

Conclusions

A better understanding of the composition, structure and function of the microbiome is needed to identify opportunities to alter the vaginal microbiome and prevent BV and reduce the risk of HIV acquisition.
Combined use of tandem mass spectrometry and computational chemistry to study 2H‐chromenes from Piper aduncum
Authors: Souza Amauri Alves , Vessecchi Ricardo , Castro‐Gamboa Ian , Furlan Maysa
Published: May 2019

Natural 2H‐chromenes were isolated from the crude extract of Piper aduncum (Piperaceae) and analyzed by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) applying collision‐induced dissociation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to explain the preferred protonation sites of the 2H‐chromenes based on thermochemical parameters, including atomic charges, proton affinity, and gas‐phase basicity. After identifying the nucleophilic sites, the pathways were proposed to justify the formation of the diagnostic ions under ESI‐MS/MS conditions. The calculated relative energy for each pathway was in good agreement with the energy‐resolved plot obtained from ESI‐MS/MS data. Moreover, the 2H‐chromene underwent proton attachment on the prenyl moiety via a six‐membered transition state. This behavior resulted in the formation of a diagnostic ion due to 2‐methylpropene loss. These studies provide novel insights into gas‐phase dissociation for natural benzopyran compounds, indicating how reactivity is correlated to the intrinsic acid‐base equilibrium and structural aspects, including the substitution pattern on the aromatic moiety. Therefore, these results can be applied in the identification of benzopyran derivatives in a variety of biological samples.
Sheet‐carrier density and I‐V analysis of In0.7Ga0.3As/InAs/In0.7Ga0.3As/InAs/In0.7Ga0.3As dual channel double gate HEMT for THz applications
Authors: R. Poornachandran , N. Mohankumar , R. Saravana Kumar , G. Sujatha
Published: May 2019

This paper gives a comprehensive detail about an emerging InAs high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) technology with proper material combination making it suitable for low‐power and high‐frequency applications. Over the decade, various material combinations were adopted to improve the sheet‐carrier density and frequency performances. In this work, we report the performance and optimization of 30‐nm gate length InAs‐based dual channel double gate (DCDG) HEMT for terahertz application. The dual channel is formed in the device due to the combination of five layers (In0.7Ga0.3As/InAs/In0.7Ga0.3As/InAs/In0.7Ga0.3As) and thus provides a significant improvement in drain current and transconductance. Moreover, the gate scaling with optimized gate to drain‐side recess length of gate (Lrd) leads to reduced parasitic (Cgg) and tremendously increases the RF performance metrics fmax and fT. For this device, high drain current of 2.203 mA/μm with peak transconductance of 4.77 mS/μm is observed. Further optimization of Lrd results in peak fT of 810 GHz and fmax of 900 GHz at a drain source voltage Vds = 0.5 V. These parameters empower a feasibility of the device for submillimeter as well as terahertz applications.
Biventricular pacemaker implantation via a persistent left superior vena cava after removal of an infected device from the right side
Authors: Yamamoto Tasuku , Goya Masahiko , Ando Kenji , Yagishita Atsuhiko , Maeda Shingo , Hirao Kenzo
Published: May 2019

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a congenital anomaly that poses a unique challenge when implanting cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) from the left side. To date, only a few isolated case reports are available regarding biventricular pacemaker implantation via PLSVC. These reports lack procedural details and tips to overcome difficulties faced by the physician when performing this technically demanding procedure. In the present report, we describe a patient who successfully underwent biventricular pacemaker implantation via a PLSVC after transvenous extraction of an infected device from the contralateral side, and discuss the technical implications.
Atmospheric drivers of winter above‐freezing temperatures and associated rainfall in western Canada
Authors: Newton Brandi W. , Bonsal Barrie R. , Edwards Thomas W. D. , Prowse Terry D. , McGregor Glenn R.
Published: May 2019

Winter thaw episodes, especially when accompanied by rain, can significantly deplete the winter snowpack, which is a critical water storage component in the mountainous headwater regions of the major river basins of western Canada. Here we identify the characteristic synoptic‐scale mid‐tropospheric atmospheric circulation regimes that tend to foster such extreme hydrologic events using self‐organizing map analysis of meteorological reanalysis data from 1949 to 2012. Daily winter 500 hPa geopotential height fields over the Pacific Ocean and western Canada are classified into 12 dominant synoptic types, for which conditional probabilities of above‐freezing temperatures and rainfall are then calculated and mapped using daily high‐resolution gridded data. Results show that above‐freezing surface air temperatures and rain events in winter are commonly associated with the occurrence of a ridge of high pressure over western Canada, which induces southwesterly advection of relatively warm, moist maritime air masses into the continental interior, and that the intensity and spatial footprint of the surface climate response is related to the strength and position of the ridge. Conversely, the development of a ridge of high pressure over the Pacific Ocean and adjacent trough of low pressure over western Canada, which favours northwesterly to westerly mid‐tropospheric flow over the continental interior in winter, tends to suppress the occurrence of above‐freezing temperatures and rain. The synoptic type most strongly associated with winter thaw and rain events underwent a statistically significant step‐change increase in mean frequency in 1977, accompanied by a corresponding step‐change decrease in the frequency of the dominant synoptic type depicting westerly (zonal) circulation, coinciding with a well‐documented shift to a positive phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation.
Development of a parameterization image stitching algorithm for ultrashort throw laser MEMS projectors
Authors: Cui Wei , Gao Liang
Published: May 2019

We present a novel design of a parameterization image stitching algorithm for ultrashort throw laser MEMS projectors. The resultant method allows the use of projectors with short or even long throw ratios to achieve ultrashort throw projection through a parameterized algorithm to stitch multiple images into one single frame, alleviating the trade‐off between the resolution and frame rate in conventional laser MEMS displays. To evaluate the effectiveness, we construct a test system that consists of three off‐the‐shelf projectors with a throw ratio of 1.3 and three planar reflective mirrors. Using our method, the integrated system yields an ultrashort throw ratio of 0.26, greatly reducing the projection distance from 12 to 2.6 ft for the 120‐in. screen in diagonal. Moreover, our algorithm can be fine‐tuned to correct for image distortion, intensity variation, and edge mismatch induced by two‐axis light beam steering, thereby further improving the image quality.
Simultaneous quantification of urinary purines and creatinine by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet spectroscopy and quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry: Method development, validation, and application to gout study
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Jiang Min , Zhang Hongyang , Liu Ju , Zhang Min , Hu Ping
Published: May 2019

We present an ultra high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet spectroscopy and quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous quantification of ten purines (adenine, hypoxanthine, guanine, xanthine, deoxyadenosine, adenosine, inosine, guanosine, xanthosine, and uric acid) and creatinine in human urine. After chromatographic separation on an ACE Excel 2 AQ column, high abundant creatinine and uric acid and the other low abundant purines were sequentially detected by ultraviolet and quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry within a single run. Method validations including specificity (improved by accurate mass measurement), linearity (correlation coefficients ≥0.9944), limit of quantification (0.002–9.756 µg/mL), intra‐ and interday precision (relative standard deviations ≤9.1 and 14.0%, respectively), accuracy (relative errors ≤13.1%), extraction recovery (between 90.3 and 109.6%), matrix effect (between 85.3 and 110.5%), and stability (relative errors ≤14.3%) were fully evaluated. This approach was applied to characterize the disordered purine metabolism in acute and chronic gout as an example. Quantitative results (normalized by creatinine) showed that an overproduction of urinary purine precursors might be involved in the gout process. The developed method represents a useful tool to investigate the purine disturbances in gout and other relevant diseases.
‘The constant rejections hurt’: Skills and personal attributes needed to successfully complete a thesis by publication
Authors: Merga Margaret K. , Mason Shannon , Morris Julia E.
Published: May 2019

The thesis by publication (TBP) is an increasingly popular approach to doctoral education that sees candidates publishing their research during their candidature, and including these outputs in their final thesis submission. Responsive to the realities of modern academia, a TBP provides doctoral candidates with opportunities to engage in the scholarly publication process, and to build their research portfolio. As the TBP gains further traction in many fields and countries, there is a need to better understand the skills and attributes needed to complete a TBP successfully. This paper draws on the views of 246 recent doctoral graduates of Australian universities to identify the skills and attributes they felt supported their success. Their responses have implications for the development and refinement of institutional policies and programs that are sensitive to the needs and experiences of doctoral candidates seeking to publish during candidature and create a TBP. As editors, peer‐reviewers, and publishers see a growing influx of papers sole‐ or co‐authored by doctoral candidates in response to the trend toward TBP, they may find themselves involved in supporting students to develop the skills and attributes needed to successfully publish during candidature.
Anthropogenic inputs from a coastal megacity are linked to greenhouse gas concentrations in the surrounding estuary
Authors: Brigham Brian A. , Bird Jeffrey A. , Juhl Andrew R. , Zappa Christopher J. , Montero Angel D. , O'Mullan Gregory D.
Published: May 2019

Coastal megacities deposit significant amounts of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and pollutants into surrounding waters. In urbanized estuaries, these inputs, including wastewater discharge and surface runoff, can affect biogeochemical cycles, microbial production, and greenhouse gas (GHG) efflux. To better understand estuarine GHG production and its connection to anthropogenic drivers, we quantified carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) surface‐water concentrations and efflux in combination with a suite of biogeochemical parameters, including anthropogenic indicators, in the Hudson River Estuary (HRE) and adjacent waters surrounding New York, NY, over a 2‐yr period. The HRE was a source of both CO2 (33 ± 3 mmol CO2 m−2 d−1) and CH4 (177 ± 22 μmol CH4 m−2 d−1) under all measured conditions. Surface‐water salinity, oxygen saturation, fecal indicator bacteria, nitrate concentrations, and temperature best explained the variance in CO2 and CH4 concentrations in multiple regression analyses, producing robust predictive power for both GHGs. Our multifaceted data set demonstrated that CH4 and CO2 surface concentrations are explained in part by enterococci concentrations, a widely used wastewater biological indicator, explicitly linking wastewater inputs to GHG surface concentrations in the HRE. The greatest CO2 and CH4 surface‐water concentrations were found in urban tributaries and embayments, primary wastewater delivery areas throughout the HRE. Estuarine tributaries and embayments have historically received less research attention than midchannel sites, but since these shallow sites may contribute to increased GHG efflux in anthropogenically impacted estuaries, further study is warranted.
Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients With Mutations in Parkinson's Disease–Related Genes: A Systematic Review
Authors: de Oliveira Lais Machado , Barbosa Egberto Reis , Aquino Camila Catherine , Munhoz Renato Puppi , Fasano Alfonso , Cury Rubens Gisbert
Published: May 2019

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD), and careful selection of candidates is a key component of successful therapy. Although it is recognized that factors such as age, disease duration, and levodopa responsiveness can influence outcomes, it is unclear whether genetic background should also serve as a parameter.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review is to explore studies that have evaluated DBS in patients with mutations in PD‐related genes.

Methods

We performed a selective literature search for articles regarding the effects of DBS in autosomal dominant or recessive forms of PD or in PD patients with genetic risk factors. Data regarding changes in motor and nonmotor scores and the presence of adverse events after the stimulation were collected.

Results

A total of 25 studies were included in the systematic review, comprising 135 patients. In the shorter term, most patients showed marked or satisfactory response to subthalamic DBS, although leucine rich repeat kinase 2 carriers of R114G mutations had higher rates of unsatisfactory outcome. Longer term follow‐up data were scarce but suggested that motor benefit is sustained. Patients with the glucosidase beta acid (GBA) mutation showed higher rates of cognitive decline after surgery. Motor outcome was scarce for pallidal DBS. Few adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Subthalamic DBS results in positive outcomes in the short term in patients with Parkin, GBA, and leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (non‐R144G) mutations, although the small sample size limits the interpretation of our findings. Longer and larger cohorts of follow‐up, with broader nonmotor symptom evaluations will be necessary to better customize DBS therapy in this population.
Genotype‐phenotype correlation and prognostic impact in Chinese patients with Alport Syndrome
Authors: Shang Shunlai , Peng Fei , Wang Tao , Wu Xiaoyuan , Li Ping , Li Qinggang , Chen Xiang M.
Published: May 2019

Background

Alport Syndrome (AS) is a progressive hereditary glomerular disease. It is often accompanied by sensorineural hearing loss and ocular abnormalities and can sometimes develop into end stage renal disease (ESRD), which is caused by mutations in the genes encoding the collagen type IV family of proteins.

Methods

This study analyzed the association between the clinical data of seven AS families and genes and the disease progression of different mutation types, including COL4A3 (OMIM 120070)，COL4A4 (OMIM 120131), and COL4A5 (OMIM303630).

Results

A total of six new pathogenic mutation sites, one complex heterozygous mutation at COL4A3, and a combined mutation of COL4A5 and INF2 (OMIM 610982) were identified in this study. It was revealed that the clinical manifestations of X‐linked AS caused by mutations in the COL4A5 gene were more severe in males than in females. In addition, the difference in patient phenotype can be attributed to the location of gene mutations affecting the protein domain or functional domain. Our data suggested that the gene deletion and nonsense mutations had a high risk for progression to ESRD.

Conclusion

Our results revealed the spectrum of type IV collagen genes, which contribute to the enrichment of database resources and has important implications in the diagnosis, prognosis, and guiding treatment of AS.
Bandwidth and directivity enhancement of an internal folded monopole antenna loaded by interdigital capacitor for ultra‐high‐definition television applications
Authors: Van Trinh Thai , Jung Chang W.
Published: May 2019

An internal antenna with bandwidth and directivity enhancement was developed for operation in ultra‐high‐frequency bands (UHF: 470‐771 MHz, bandwidth: 48.5%) for ultra‐high‐definition television (UHD‐TV) applications. The antenna is integrated into a 49‐in. TV model, which is surrounded by a bezel frame made of polycarbonate‐acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC‐ABS) plastic. This material was also used as a substrate in fabricating the antenna. The antenna has a compact size of 0.387λL × 0.023λL × 0.0093λL (where λL is the wavelength at the lowest operating frequency) and is fed by a 50 Ω coplanar waveguide (CPW) feedline. To achieve wideband operation and directional radiation, the proposed internal antenna was designed on the basis of a folded monopole antenna loaded with parasitic strips and an interdigital capacitor. The experimental results showed that the antenna exhibits a wide impedance bandwidth of 86% (400‐1000 MHz) under the criterion |S11| ≤ −6 dB (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) ≤ 3), a directional radiation pattern with a maximum realized gain of 5.2 dBi, and a radiation efficiency of more than 68%. These findings indicate that the antenna is suitable for UHD‐TV applications.
A very compact internal WLAN antenna
Authors: Wang Hanyang , Ying Lijun
Published: May 2019

A very compact wireless local area network (WLAN) antenna is presented for the design of hand‐held mobile devices. The antenna does not need metal clearance underneath the antenna and it has very low profile. Both simulated and measured results show that the antennas with very small antenna volume and height can operate as a triple‐band WLAN antenna with good bandwidth and radiation efficiency.
Nutrition Risk in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients: Higher Complication Rate and Higher Costs Related to Malnutrition
Authors: Gambra‐Arzoz Marta , Alonso‐Cadenas José Antonio , Jiménez‐Legido María , López‐Giménez M. Rosario , Martín‐Rivada Álvaro , de los Ángeles Martínez‐Ibeas María , Cañedo‐Villarroya Elvira , Pedrón‐Giner Consuelo
Published: May 2019

Background

Hospitalized children present higher rates of undernutrition. Malnutrition can lead to a more complex hospitalization process with an increased length of stay and higher costs. Our aim was to analyze nutrition risk in hospitalized children and its relationship with clinical outcomes in a tertiary level hospital.

Methods

This is a single institution prospective observational study. The research involved 282 consecutive children admitted along 3 months. Anthropometric measurements and nutrition risk by means of the Screening Tool for Risk on Nutritional Status and Growth (STRONGkids) tool were performed at admission. The incidence of infectious complications, length of hospital stay, weight loss, hospital expenses, and need of nutrition support were recorded.

Results

The percentage of children with high, moderate, and low nutrition risk was 12.8%, 45%, and 42%, respectively. The prevalence of acute and chronic malnutrition was 13.7% and 7.4%. STRONGkids score correlated with clinical outcomes: longer stay, higher hospital expenses, and need of nutrition support were observed in children with high nutrition risk scores compared with the other groups (P < 0.001). The overall incidence of infectious complications was low (3.5%); a higher STRONGkids score did not predict a higher rate.

Conclusion

Hospitalized children exposed to high nutrition risk have poorer clinical outcomes: longer stay, higher hospital expenses, and need of nutrition support. More studies are required to assess if applying STRONGkids and starting a nutrition intervention would result in lower costs and a shorter length of stay.
Preanalytical processing of archaeological mammal enamel apatite carbonates for stable isotope investigations: A comparative analysis of the effect of acid treatment on samples from Northwest Australia
Authors: Skippington Jane , Veth Peter , Manne Tiina , Slack Michael
Published: May 2019

Stable isotopic analysis of palaeontological and archaeological biogenic apatite carbonates from herbivorous mammalian species represents an important tool for worldwide palaeoecological research. Tooth enamel carbonates are more resistant to taphonomic processes than bone or dentine carbonates but are not invulnerable to diagenesis. As such, they require careful preanalytical processing that considers depositional environment and age. An established part of this process includes a weak acid treatment to remove soluble exogenous carbonates; however, published treatment times for isotopic studies of archaeological tooth enamel are variable and range from 15 min to over 8 hr. This study tests three different pretreatment protocols on modern and Pleistocene age archaeological kangaroo teeth (dating from contemporary to 46,000 bp) to assess the effect of acid treatment time on isotopic integrity. The results indicate that treatment time is a critical parameter for producing consistency across results and shorter pretreatments of 4 hr or less are preferable for removing diagenetic carbonates while minimising alteration of the biological signal.
Continuous Improvement and Self‐Assessment Pave the Way to Optimization
Authors: Brewer Todd , Linder Kevin
Published: May 2019

AWWA's Partnership staff are employing the guiding principles of existing Partnership programs to help smaller water systems along the path to optimization so they can comply with regulations and protect public health.
Use Benchmarking to Help Manage Your Utility's Performance
Authors: Haskins Scott , Brueck Terry
Published: May 2019

Benchmarking offers key tools and industry‐developed processes for water utility management success. AWWA's Utility Benchmarking Program is a remarkable tool for improving efficiency, quality, and effectiveness.
Consider Ways to Optimize Systemwide Operations
Authors: Smith Travis
Published: May 2019

As new smart water technologies emerge, water utilities are moving toward the goal of complete system optimization. But the nature of water's interconnectivity requires a holistic approach to water management and utility operations.
Cancer drugs approved for use in children: Impact of legislative initiatives and future opportunities
Authors: Barone Amy , Casey Denise , McKee Amy E. , Reaman Gregory
Published: May 2019

It is well appreciated that the number of anticancer drugs approved for use in children is a fraction of the number approved for use in cancers that occur in adults. We address this fact by summarizing the relevant U.S. legislation that provides the framework for the evaluation and approval of drugs used to treat children with cancer. In total, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved 38 new drug applications for pediatric oncology indications, 12 of which were new molecular entities. FDA continues to collaborate with multistakeholders regarding the development of products intended for pediatric cancer and encourages the submission of marketing applications.
An enquiry into the causes of an explosion accident occurred in a biogas plant
Authors: Boscolo Marco , Bregant Luigi , Miani Stefano , Padoano Elio , Piller Marzio
Published: May 2019

Biogas is a versatile carrier of renewable energy produced by means of the digestion of crops, residues, or other wastes, and storage of the gas in dedicated plants. Safety regulations impose operational and technical restrictions to areas interested by the presence of the biogas in order to limit the explosion risk. Conversely, other areas of the plant are not subject to strict safety requirements. Nevertheless, explosions can be triggered in these areas as well, as the present investigation confirms. In the specific case, the production of biogas by anaerobic digestion in a storm‐water tank and its infiltration and accumulation into a technical building through a pipe connection caused the explosion of the building itself. The authors describe the procedures adopted for the enquiry and suggest possible improvements to the safety regulations for biogas plants.
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis with upper‐lobe predominance in a non‐smoking female
Authors: Er Hong‐Ping , Lee Chung‐Ta , Huang Tang‐Hsiu
Published: May 2019

In this report, we describe an unusual manifestation of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP). The patient is a 43‐year‐old non‐smoking female without underlying hematologic or auto‐immune disorder. Her initial presentation included non‐specific respiratory symptoms (exertional dyspnoea and cough), an unremarkable physical examination, a mild elevation in her serum level of lactate dehydrogenase, a mild impairment in the diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide but a normal spirometry, and multiple ground‐glass opacities with a “crazy‐paving” pattern predominantly in upper lung zones on her chest radiographic images. PAP was diagnosed histologically. PAP commonly occurs in males with smoking history, and tends to affect the lung parenchyma diffusely or, as in auto‐immune PAP, lower lobes predominantly. Upper‐lobe predominant PAP, particularly in a non‐smoking female, is rare. This report would add PAP to the list of differential diagnosis for upper‐lung ground‐glass opacities. A review on the relevant literature is also included in the discussion.
In vivo kinematic analysis of patients with robotic‐assisted total hip arthroplasty during gait at 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Peng Yun , Arauz Paul , Desai Pooja , Byers Ashlyn , Klemt Christian , Kwon Young‐Min
Published: May 2019

Background

Suboptimal component positioning has been suggested as an important contributing factor to postoperative gait asymmetry. The aim of this study is to determine whether robotic arm–assisted THA better restores gait symmetry than freehand THA.

Methods

Component orientation and positioning parameters and in vivo gait kinematics were quantified for implanted and native hips in 20 robotic arm–assisted and eight freehand THA patients, using a validated combined three‐dimensional modeling technique.

Results

Although neither THA procedure fully restored the native hip geometry, the robotic arm–assisted THA showed a better accuracy than freehand THA, with lower root mean square errors of component orientations. Gait asymmetry was not fully eliminated by either robotic arm–assisted or freehand THA, with increased internal rotation most notably observed in the implanted hip.

Conclusion

Improved accuracy in restoring native hip geometry achieved by the robotic arm–assisted THA procedure did not fully translate into improved gait symmetry.
Interaction of phages, bacteria, and the human immune system: Evolutionary changes in phage therapy
Authors: Jariah Rizka O.A. , Hakim Mohamad S.
Published: May 2019

Phages and bacteria are known to undergo dynamic and co‐evolutionary arms race interactions in order to survive. Recent advances from in vitro and in vivo studies have improved our understanding of the complex interactions between phages, bacteria, and the human immune system. This insight is essential for the development of phage therapy to battle the growing problems of antibiotic resistance. It is also pivotal to prevent the development of phage‐resistance during the implementation of phage therapy in the clinic. In this review, we discuss recent progress of the interactions between phages, bacteria, and the human immune system and its clinical application for phage therapy. Proper phage therapy design will ideally produce large burst sizes, short latent periods, broad host ranges, and a low tendency to select resistance.
Controlled Delivery of Stem Cell-Derived Trophic Factors Accelerates Kidney Repair After Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Yim Hyung Eun , Kim Doo Sang , Chung Hyun Chul , Shing Brian , Moon Kyung Hyun , George Sunil K. , Kim Michael W. , Atala Zachary , Kim Ji Hyun , Ko In Kap , Yoo James J.
Published: May 2019

Renal disease is a worldwide health issue. Besides transplantation, current therapies revolve around dialysis, which only delays disease progression but cannot replace other renal functions, such as synthesizing erythropoietin. To address these limitations, cell-based approaches have been proposed to restore damaged kidneys as an alternative to current therapies. Recent studies have shown that stem cell-derived secretomes can enhance tissue regeneration. However, many growth factors undergo rapid degradation when they are injected into the body in a soluble form. Efficient delivery and controlled release of secreting factors at the sites of injury would improve the efficacy in tissue regeneration. Herein, we developed a gel-based delivery system for controlled delivery of trophic factors in the conditioned medium (CM) secreted from human placental stem cells (HPSCs) and evaluated the effect of trophic factors on renal regeneration. CM treatment significantly enhanced cell proliferation and survival in vitro. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was used as a delivery vehicle for CM. Analysis of the release kinetics demonstrated that CM delivery through the PRP gel resulted in a controlled release of the factors both in vitro and in vivo. In an acute kidney injury model in rats, functional and structural analysis showed that CM delivery using the PRP gel system into the injured kidney minimized renal tissue damage, leading to a more rapid functional recovery when compared with saline, CM, or vehicle only injection groups. These results suggest that controlled delivery of HPSC-derived trophic factors may provide efficient repair of renal tissue injury. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:959–970
Functionally Distinctive Ptch Receptors Establish Multimodal Hedgehog Signaling in the Tooth Epithelial Stem Cell Niche
Authors: Binder Martin , Chmielarz Piotr , Mckinnon Peter J. , Biggs Leah C. , Thesleff Irma , Balic Anamaria
Published: May 2019

Continuous growth of the mouse incisor teeth is due to the life-long maintenance of epithelial stem cells (SCs) in their niche called cervical loop (CL). Several signaling factors regulate SC maintenance and/or their differentiation to achieve organ homeostasis. Previous studies indicated that Hedgehog signaling is crucial for both the maintenance of the SCs in the niche, as well as for their differentiation. How Hedgehog signaling regulates these two opposing cellular behaviors within the confinement of the CL remains elusive. In this study, we used in vitro organ and cell cultures to pharmacologically attenuate Hedgehog signaling. We analyzed expression of various genes expressed in the SC niche to determine the effect of altered Hedgehog signaling on the cellular hierarchy within the niche. These genes include markers of SCs (Sox2 and Lgr5) and transit-amplifying cells (P-cadherin, Sonic Hedgehog, and Yap). Our results show that Hedgehog signaling is a critical survival factor for SCs in the niche, and that the architecture and the diversity of the SC niche are regulated by multiple Hedgehog ligands. We demonstrated the presence of an additional Hedgehog ligand, nerve-derived Desert Hedgehog, secreted in the proximity of the CL. In addition, we provide evidence that Hedgehog receptors Ptch1 and Ptch2 elicit independent responses, which enable multimodal Hedgehog signaling to simultaneously regulate SC maintenance and differentiation. Our study indicates that the cellular hierarchy in the continuously growing incisor is a result of complex interplay of two Hedgehog ligands with functionally distinct Ptch receptors. Stem Cells  2019;37:1238–1248
IDO1 Maintains Pluripotency of Primed Human Embryonic Stem Cells by Promoting Glycolysis
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang Meiyan , Jiang Tao , He Jingjin , Fu Xuemei , Xu Yang
Published: May 2019

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) depend on glycolysis for energy supply and pluripotency and switch to oxidative phosphorylation upon differentiation. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is expressed in primed hESCs and its expression rapidly downregulated upon hESC differentiation. IDO1 is required to maintain pluripotency by suppressing mitochondria activity and promoting glycolysis through the increase of NAD+/NADH ratio. The upregulation of IDO1 during hESC differentiation suppresses the differentiation of hESCs into certain lineages of cells such as cardiomyocytes, which depend on oxidative phosphorylation to satisfy their high energy demand. Therefore, IDO1 plays important roles in maintaining the pluripotency of hESCs. Stem Cells  2019;37:1158–1165
Axion misalignment driven to the hilltop
Authors: Co Raymond T. , Gonzalez Eric , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: May 2019

Abstract

The QCD axion serves as a well-motivated dark matter candidate and the misalignment mechanism is known to reproduce the observed abundance with a decay constant f

a
≃

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

(1012) GeV for a misalignment angle θ
mis ≃

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

(1). While f

a
≪ 1012 GeV is of great experimental interest, the misalignment mechanism requires the axion to be very close to the hilltop, i.e. θ
mis ≃ π. This particular choice of θ
mis has been understood as fine-tuning the initial condition. We offer a dynamical explanation for θ
mis ≃ π in a class of models. The axion dynamically relaxes to the minimum of the potential by virtue of an enhanced mass in the early universe. This minimum is subsequently converted to a hilltop because the CP phase of the theory shifts by π when one contribution becomes subdominant to another with an opposite sign. We demonstrate explicit and viable examples in supersymmetric models where the higher dimensional Higgs coupling with the inflaton naturally achieves both criteria. Associated phenomenology includes a strikingly sharp prediction of 3 × 109 GeV ≲ f

a
≲ 1010 GeV and the absence of isocurvature perturbation.
The flavor dependence of mϱ/fπ
Authors: Nogradi Daniel , Szikszai Lorinc
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We calculate themϱ/fπratio in the chiral and continuum limit for SU(3) gauge theory coupled toNf= 2,3,4,5,6 fermions in the fundamental representation. Keeping all systematic effects under full control we find no statistically significantNf-dependence;mϱ/fπ= 7.95(15). Assuming the KSRF-relations we conclude that 3 other low energy quantities related to the vector meson are alsoNf-independent within errors including theϱππcouplinggϱππ. If the model is thought of as a strong dynamics inspired composite Higgs model our results indicate that the experimentally most easily accessible new composite particle, the vector meson, and its properties may be robust and independent of the fermion content of the model as long as the gauge group is SU(3), providedNf-independence extends all the way to the conformal window.