bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative retrospective natural history modeling for orphan drug development
Authors: Garbade Sven F. , Zielonka Matthias , Komatsuzaki Shoko , Kölker Stefan , Hoffmann Georg F. , Hinderhofer Katrin , Mountford William K. , Mengel Eugen , Sláma Tomáš , Mechler Konstantin , Ries Markus
Published: August 2020

The natural history of most rare diseases is incompletely understood and usually relies on studies with low level of evidence. Consistent with the goals for future research of rare disease research set by the International Rare Diseases Research Consortium in 2017, the purpose of this paper is to review the recently developed method of quantitative retrospective natural history modeling (QUARNAM) and to illustrate its usefulness through didactically selected analyses examples in an overall population of 849 patients worldwide with seven (ultra‐) rare neurogenetic disorders. A quantitative understanding of the natural history of the disease is fundamental for the development of specific interventions and counseling afflicted families. QUARNAM has a similar relationship to a published case study as a meta‐analysis has to an individual published study. QUARNAM relies on sophisticated statistical analyses of published case reports focusing on four research questions: How long does it take to make the diagnosis? How long do patients live? Which factors predict disease severity (eg, genotypes, signs/symptoms, biomarkers)? Where can patients be recruited for studies? Useful statistical techniques include Kaplan‐Meier estimates, cluster analysis, regression techniques, binary decisions trees, word clouds, and geographic mapping. In comparison to other natural history study methods (prospective studies or retrospective studies such as chart reviews), QUARNAM can provide fast information on hard clinical endpoints (ie, survival, diagnostic delay) with a lower effort. The choice of method for a particular drug development program may be driven by the research question and may encompass combinatory approaches.
TNF‐α suppresses SHOX2 expression via NF‐κB signaling pathway and promotes intervertebral disc degeneration and related pain in a rat model
Authors: Ye Fubiao , Xu Yang , Lin Feiyue , Zheng Zhaomin
Published: August 2020

This study was conducted to verify the relative expression patterns of SHOX2 and its regulation by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) during the development of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). A rat disc‐degeneration model was subjected to disc puncture (DP) and intradiscal injections with TNF‐α to determine the roles of TNF‐α and SHOX2 expression in IVDD in vivo. TNF‐α and SHOX2 expression patterns in different degenerative rat nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The effects of TNF‐α on IVDD were determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and pain development of wet‐dog shakes (WDS) were blinded assessment by pain‐behavior testing, respectively. Changes in TNF‐α on SHOX2 expression were measured by Western blot analysis and real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The roles of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in TNF‐α‐mediated SHOX2 activation were studied using viral transfection, Western blot analysis, and real‐time RT‐PCR. In vivo, TNF‐α accelerated the process of IVDD and suppressed SHOX2 expression; compared to the DP group, WDS was significantly increased in TNF‐α intradiscal injection group at 2 to 6 weeks after puncture (P < .05); In NP cells, TNF‐α negatively affected the IVDD‐associated SHOX2 suppression. While TNF‐α promotes IVDD through activation of both MAPK and NF‐κB signaling, it seemed that only NF‐κB signaling controlled the TNF‐α‐mediated SHOX2 suppression that is associated with IVDD. The results of this study indicated that TNF‐α inhibits SHOX2 expression and has promoted effects on IVDD in the rat model, and these effects might be associated with through NF‐κB signaling pathway and promotes IVDD and related pain in a rat model.
Acoustic analysis to monitor implant seating and early detect fractures in cementless THA: An in vivo study
Authors: Goossens Quentin , Pastrav Leonard , Roosen Jorg , Mulier Michiel , Desmet Wim , Vander Sloten Jos , Denis Kathleen
Published: August 2020

The initial stability of cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) implants is obtained by an interference fit that allows osseointegration for a long term secondary stability of the implant. Yet, finding the insertion endpoint that corresponds to an appropriate initial stability is currently often based on a number of subjective experiences of the orthopedic surgeon, which can be challenging. In order to assist the orthopedic surgeons in their pursuit to find this optimal initial stability, this study aims to determine whether the analysis of sound that results from the implant insertion hammer blows can be used to objectively monitor the insertion process of cementless THA implants. An in vivo study was conducted. The experimental results revealed vibro‐acoustic behavior sensitive to implant seating, related to the low frequency content of the response spectra. This sensitive low‐frequency behavior was quantified by a set of specific vibro‐acoustic features and metrics that reflected the power and similarity of the low‐frequency response. These features and metrics allowed monitoring the implant seating and their convergence agreed well with the endpoint of insertion as determined by the orthopedic surgeon. Intraoperative fractures caused an abrupt and opposite change of the vibro‐acoustic behavior prior to the notification of the fracture by the orthopedic surgeon. The observation of such an abrupt change in the vibro‐acoustic behavior can be an important early warning for loss of implant stability. The presented vibro‐acoustic measurement method shows potential to serve as a decision supporting source of information as it showed to reflect the implant seating.
Quaternary exhumation history of the NE Tibetan Plateau revealed by peculiar distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in core extracts from the Sanhu depression, eastern Qaidam basin
Authors: Yin Mengsha , Huang Haiping
Published: August 2020

Reworked organic matter (ROM) has been frequently encountered in fresh organic matter (FOM) in young sedimentary basins. Our study reports an ROM‐dominated sequence from 21 borehole cores of the Late Pliocene–Quaternary strata in the Sanhu depression of the eastern Qaidam basin in northwestern China. Reworked organic matter occurrence is confirmed by Rock‐Eval pyrolysis results, high Ro values, and reversed polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) maturity trends showing elevated maturities. Rock–source correlation using molecular fingerprints of biomarkers shows ROM was derived from Jurassic freshwater lacustrine source rocks dominated by terrestrial input, contrasting the immature Quaternary FOM developed in anoxic, saline lacustrine facies. The ROM provenance is traced northward to the southern Qilian Mountains. Maximum burial depths of ROM prior to erosion have been inferred by a burial depth–Rc (calculated vitrinite reflectance) correlation. Two chronological boundaries (1.83 Ma and 3.12 Ma) displaying distinct biomarker fingerprints are obtained from a previously reported chronological framework in the study area. Accordingly, an eroded thickness of 1214 m and an average erosion rate of 94 cm/ka of the ROM provenance areas during this temporal interval are derived. Our study has illustrated the potential value of geochemical compositions of ROM with constrained provenances in investigating the exhumation history of a mountain.
Preparedness of the cancer hospitals and changes in oncosurgical practices during COVID‐19 pandemic in India: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Singh Hemant Kumar , Patil Vijayraj , Chaitanya Ganne , Nair Deepa
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has impacted cancer care across India. This study aimed to assess (a) organizational preparedness of hospitals (establishment of screening clinics, COVID‐19 wards/committees/intensive care units [ICUs]/operating rooms [ORs]), (b) type of major/minor surgeries performed, and (c) employee well‐being (determined by salary deductions, paid leave provisions, and work in‐rotation).

Methods

This online questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study was distributed to 480 oncosurgeons across India. We used χ2 statistics to compare responses across geographical areas (COVID‐19 lockdown zones and city tiers) and type of organization (government/private, academic/nonacademic, and dedicated/multispecialty hospitals). P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Total of 256 (53.3%) oncologists completed the survey. About 206 hospitals in 85 cities had screening clinics (98.1%), COVID‐19 dedicated committees (73.7%), ward (67.3%), ICU's (49%), and OR's (36%). Such preparedness was higher in tier‐1 cities, government, academic, and multispecialty hospitals. Dedicated cancer institutes continued major surgeries in all oncological subspecialties particularly in head and neck (P = .006) and colorectal oncology (P = .04). Employee well‐being was better in government hospitals.

Conclusion

Hospitals have implemented strategies to continue cancer care. Despite limited resources, the significant risk associated and financial setbacks amidst nationwide lockdown, oncosurgeons are striving to prioritize and balance the oncologic needs and safety concerns of cancer patients across the country.
miR‐140 inhibits osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts through ras homolog gene family, member A ‐transcriptional co‐activator with PDZ‐binding motif pathway
Authors: Cui Zhao , Wang Xiao‐Ning , Lu Ying , Wu Peng , Zhao Hong‐Guang , Li Qiu‐Lin , Xu Yun‐He
Published: August 2020

Osteogenesis induced by mechanical stretch is the main factor affecting the orthodontic treatment. Due to the masticatory force transmitted by tooth, human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs) could enhance osteogenic differentiation, and remolding of periodontal. Therefore, in‐depth study of hPDLFs osteogenic differentiation and its regulatory mechanism is helpful in the understanding of periodontal remolding promoted by orthodontic force. In the present study, 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide showed that miR‐140 inhibited the viability of hPDLFs cells. Moreover, we provided evidence that miR‐140 inhibited alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, Alizarin Red S (ARS) activity and the mRNA expression of osteogenesis associated genes, including ALP, runt‐related transcription factor 2, collagen 1, and osteocalcin. Besides, double‐luciferase reporter result demonstrated that Ras homolog gene family, member A (RhoA) was a downstream target gene of miR‐140, and by inhibiting RhoA‐transcriptional co‐activator with PDZ‐binding motif (TAZ) signaling pathway, miR‐140 suppressed the osteogenesis differentiation of hPDLFs. Furthermore, overexpression of RhoA or TAZ promoted ALP activity, ARS activity and osteogenesis associated genes expression, which was inhibited by miR‐140 mimics. Our findings not only provided a possible mechanism of hPDLFs osteogenic differentiation but also proposed the clinical application of miR‐140 inhibitor to target RhoA‐TAZ for orthodontic treatment.
When does an ethical attribute matter for product evaluation? The role of warm‐glow feelings for low‐rated products
Authors: Bezençon Valéry , Girardin Florent , Lunardo Renaud
Published: August 2020

Research on the effects of ethical attributes has recently gained traction. However, limited research has addressed consumer response to ethical attributes in the current context where product ratings have become of primary importance to make decisions. Specifically, this study examines the relative effect of ethical attributes on product evaluations across different product ratings. Building on cue consistency theory and the negativity bias, we suggest that ethical attributes gain weight when consumers evaluate a low‐rated product. This process leads consumers to anticipate more warm‐glow feelings, generating better evaluations for such low‐rated products featuring an ethical attribute (vs. another type of attribute). Two experiments provide consistent empirical support for this prediction, and demonstrate that, compared to other attributes or no attribute, an ethical attribute increases product evaluations to a larger extent when the product received low (vs. higher) ratings. We show that this effect occurs because of warm‐glow feelings: when product ratings are low, consumers anticipate more warm‐glow feelings from purchasing a product with an ethical attribute (vs. another type of attribute), leading to better product evaluations. These findings have direct managerial and ethical implications for practitioners.
Postprandial Triglyceride‐Rich Lipoproteins from Type 2 Diabetic Women Stimulate Platelet Activation Regardless of the Fat Source in the Meal
Authors: Boulet Marie Michèle , Cheillan David , Di Filippo Mathilde , Lelekov‐Boissard Taïssia , Buisson Charline , Lambert‐Porcheron Stéphanie , Nazare Julie‐Anne , Tressou Jessica , Michalski Marie‐Caroline , Calzada Catherine , Moulin Philippe
Published: August 2020

Scope

The aim of this study is to examine whether postprandial (PP) triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins (TGRL) secreted after a moderate fat intake would activate platelets differently according to their fatty acid (FA) composition.

Methods and results

In a parallel single‐blind randomized trial, 30 women with type 2 diabetes are assigned a breakfast containing 20 g lipids from butter versus hazelnut‐cocoa spread (HCS) rich in palm oil. Blood samples are collected at fasting and 4 h PP. FA composition of fasting and PP TGRL and their effects on the activation of platelets from healthy blood donors are assessed. Both breakfasts similarly increase plasma ApoB‐48, plasma, and TGRL triglycerides (p < 0.05). TGRL mean diameter increases after both breakfasts and is greater after the butter breakfast. Both breakfasts are rich in palmitic acid, and the HCS breakfast contains 45% oleic acid. TGRL FA composition reflects the dietary FA composition. Pre‐incubation of platelets with fasting and PP TGRL increases collagen‐stimulated aggregation (p < 0.01 vs control). Fasting and PP TGRL similarly increase agonist‐induced thromboxane B2 concentrations, and this effect is concentration‐dependent for PP TGRL.

Conclusion

PP TGRL from type 2 diabetic women after a palm‐oil spread versus butter‐based mixed meal induce similar acute in vitro platelet activation.
rp‐adaptation for compressible flows
Authors: Marcon Julian , Castiglioni Giacomo , Moxey David , Sherwin Spencer J. , Peiró Joaquim
Published: August 2020

We present a novel rp‐adaptation strategy for high‐fidelity simulations of compressible inviscid flows with shocks. The mesh resolution in regions of flow discontinuities is increased by using a variational optimizer to r‐adapt the mesh and cluster degrees of freedom there. In regions of smooth flow, we locally increase or decrease the local resolution through increasing or decreasing the polynomial order of the elements, respectively. This dual approach allows us to take advantage of the strengths of both methods for best computational performance, thereby reducing the overall cost of the simulation. The adaptation workflow uses a sensor for both discontinuities and smooth regions that is cheap to calculate, but the framework is general and could be used in conjunction with other feature‐based sensors or error estimators. We demonstrate this proof‐of‐concept using two geometries in transonic and supersonic flow regimes. The method has been implemented in the open‐source spectral/hp element framework Nektar++, and adaptivity is performed by its dedicated high‐order mesh generation tool NekMesh. The results show that the proposed rp‐adaptation methodology is a reasonably cost‐effective way of improving simulation accuracy.
Implicit and Explicit Anti‐Fat Attitude Change Following Brief Cognitive Dissonance Intervention for Weight Stigma
Authors: Breithaupt Lauren , Trojanowski Paige , Fischer Sarah
Published: August 2020

Objective

Research has demonstrated that explicit anti‐fat attitudes decrease immediately following a brief cognitive dissonance‐based intervention targeting weight stigma. The current study explores changes in explicit and implicit anti‐fat attitudes immediately following a cognitive dissonance‐based weight stigma intervention and 1 week after.

Methods

College students (N = 156) were randomly assigned to a control or dissonance weight stigma intervention. Weight stigma attitudes were assessed at three time points, and participants completed a measure of values at baseline. Participants in the dissonance condition were told that they had anti‐fat attitudes that were inconsistent with their values, whereas participants in the control group were told that their attitudes aligned with their values. All participants reviewed feedback at a follow‐up visit before completing explicit and implicit weight stigma assessments a final time.

Results

Individuals in the dissonance condition reported statistically significant decreases in explicit attitudes from Visit 1 to Visit 3. In contrast, there was not a significant condition by time interaction on implicit attitudes.

Conclusions

This study provides support for cognitive dissonance‐based interventions to reduce explicit, but not implicit, anti‐fat attitudes following repeated exposure to dissonance induction.
Solution of a specific class of nonlinear fractional optimal control problems including multiple delays
Authors: Marzban Hamid Reza
Published: August 2020

This research provides a new framework based on a hybrid of block‐pulse functions and Legendre polynomials for the numerical examination of a special class of scalar nonlinear fractional optimal control problems involving delay. The concepts of the fractional derivative and the fractional integral are employed in the Caputo sense and the Riemann‐Liouville sense, respectively. In accordance with the notion of the Riemann‐Liouville integral, we derive a new integral operator related to the proposed basis called the operational matrix of fractional integration. By employing two significant operators, namely, the delay operator and the integral operator connected to the hybrid basis, the system dynamics of the primal optimal control problem converts to another system involving algebraic equations. Consequently, the optimal control problem under study is reduced to a static optimization one that is solved by existing well‐established optimization procedures. Some new theoretical results regarding the new basis are obtained. Various kinds of fractional optimal control problems containing delay are examined to measure the accuracy of the new method. The simulation results justify the merits and superiority of the devised procedure over the existing optimization methods in the literature.
Preparation of modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes as a reinforcement for epoxy shape‐memory polymer composites
Authors: Wang Yanling , Tang Longhao , Li Yongfei , Li Qiang , Bai Baojun
Published: August 2020

Effectively improving the mechanical properties and thermal resistance of epoxy shape‐memory polymers (ESMPs) without affecting their shape‐memory performance is necessary to expand these polymers in practical applications. In this article, modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared and used as efficient reinforcement for enhancing the comprehensive properties of ESMPs. Increases of nearly 289% to 444% for impact strength and 112% to 184% for tensile force were obtained by adding only 0.1 to 1 wt% epoxy‐modified MWCNTs. The addition of unmodified and carboxyl‐modified MWCNTs was also investigated but showed less impact on the mechanical properties of the ESMPs than epoxy‐modified MWCNTs. Thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) showed that less than 1 wt% modified MWCNTs can enhance the heat resistance of ESMPs greatly. Although the shape recovery time for composite materials increased upon adding the MWCNTs, the entire recovery time was still less than 1 minute, and the shape recovery rate was relatively high, nearly 100%.
Improvement in energy conversion of electrostrictive composite materials by new approach via piezoelectric effect: Modeling and experiments
Authors: Farhan Rida , Eddiai Adil , Meddad Mounir , Chakhchaoui Nabil , Rguiti Mohamed , Mazroui M'hammed
Published: August 2020

This study proposes a new model that couples the piezoelectric and electrostrictive behavior to minimize the polarization power of composite polymer. The development of this model is capable to predict the energy harvesting abilities of an electrostrictive composite. To improve the dielectric permittivity of electrostrictive polymer, the particles of PZT have been incorporated in order to increase the conversion efficiency of the composite. Dielectric characterization tests showed an increase in dielectric permittivity by a factor of 4.5 compared to pure polymer. Experimental measurements of harvested power validate the analytical model and demonstrate a good correlation between the two data. An equivalent of an electrical scheme has been developed, which allows modeling the two behaviors. The harvested power density under low frequency at 2% of strain can reach 0.30 μW/cm3 for 33% of PZT without the polarization field, including the conversion efficiency becomes higher. The energy harvester property of this material composite has excellent potential for several self‐powered applications such as wireless sensor networks and the internet of things.
A taxometric analysis of psychopathy in a Chinese prison sample
Authors: Ren Fen , Li Xiaomin , Chen Gongxiang , Wang Meng‐Cheng , Xia Fangjing
Published: August 2020

As psychopathy is one of the major personality disorders—relating to severe pathological syndromes of personality—clarity concerning the nature of the latent structure of psychopathy is necessary for accurate assessment. In the present study, psychopathy was assessed in 339 Chinese male prisoners aged 18 to 35 years with three subscales of the Youth Psychopathy Trait Inventory – Short Version (YPI‐SV). Three different taxometric analyses were used to assess the taxonicity of psychopathy, and a three‐factor solution to the YPI‐SV was used as the basis of the analysis. Consistency tests of the three different procedures showed strongly that the latent structure was dimensional rather than categorical. Moreover, the mean comparison curve fit index was close to .40, which also clearly indicates a dimensional result. These results confirm the fact that the factor solution applies in most studies of psychopathy.
Comparison of laboratory threshold criteria in drug‐induced liver injury detection algorithms for use in pharmacovigilance
Authors: Tan Eng Hooi , Ling Zheng Jye , Ang Pei San , Sung Cynthia , Dan Yock Young , Tai Bee Choo
Published: August 2020

Purpose

For the purpose of pharmacovigilance, we sought to determine the best performing laboratory threshold criteria to detect drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) in the electronic medical records (EMR).

Methods

We compared three commonly used liver chemistry criteria from the DILI expert working group (DEWG), DILI network (DILIN), and Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences (CIOMS), based on hospital EMR for years 2010 and 2011 (42 176 admissions), using independent medical record review. The performance characteristics were compared in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value, accuracy, F‐measure, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

DEWG had the highest PPV (5.5%, 95% CI: 4.1%‐7.2%), specificity (97.0%, 95% CI: 96.8%‐97.2%), accuracy (96.8%, 95% CI: 96.6%‐97.0%) and F‐measure (0.099). CIOMS had the highest sensitivity (74.0%, 95% CI: 64.3%‐82.3%) and AUROC (85.2%, 95% CI: 80.8%‐89.7%). Besides the laboratory criteria, including additional keywords in the classification algorithm improved the PPV and F‐measure to a maximum of 29.0% (95% CI: 22.3%‐36.5%) and 0.379, respectively.

Conclusions

More stringent criteria (DEWG and DILIN) performed better in terms of PPV, specificity, accuracy and F‐measure. CIOMS performed better in terms of sensitivity. An algorithm with high sensitivity is useful in pharmacovigilance for detecting rare events and to avoid missing cases. Requiring at least two abnormal liver chemistries during hospitalization and text‐word searching in the discharge summaries decreased false positives without loss in sensitivity.
Flexible bifacial amorphous Si quintuple‐ and sextuple‐junction solar cells for Internet of Things devices
Authors: Konagai Makoto , Noge Hiroshi , Ishikawa Ryousuke
Published: August 2020

Bifacial a‐SiOx:H/a‐SiOx:H/a‐Si:H/a‐SiOx:H/a‐SiOx:H quintuple‐junction and a‐SiOx:H/a‐SiOx:H/a‐Si:H/a‐Si:H/a‐SiOx:H/a‐SiOx:H sextuple‐junction solar cells were prepared by the PE‐CVD. The solar cell has a structure in which both sides are sandwiched between ITO layers, and the structure allows light irradiation from both sides. A total of 49 cells having an area of 0.25 cm2, 0.5 cm2, and 1 cm2was fabricated on a 10 cm × 10 cm substrate. The distribution of open‐circuit voltage,Voc, under low illumination in all 49 solar cells was investigated. As one example of applying bifacial multi‐junction a‐Si based solar cells as an independent power source for the Internet of Things (IoT) devices, a flexible bifacial quintuple‐junction solar cell was also prepared. In the sextuple‐junction solar cell, an open‐circuit voltage of 4.1 and 3.5 V was obtained even at a low illuminance of 3000 and 100 lux, respectively. In the quintuple‐junction solar cell formed on the polyimide film substrate, an open‐circuit voltage of 3.2 and 2.7 V was obtained at 3000 and 100 lux, respectively. The decreasing amount of the open circuit voltage when the irradiation intensity became 1/10,ΔVoc (1/10), was 62–64 mV/cell.
Cancer Patients' Perception of Usefulness of Wearable Exercise Trackers
Authors: Ng Amy , Gupta Ekta , Bansal Swati , Fontillas Rhodora C. , Amos Charles E. , Williams Janet L. , Dibaj Seyedeh , Bruera Eduardo
Published: August 2020

Objective

To determine the feasibility and perception of usefulness of wearable trackers in inpatient and outpatient cancer rehabilitation patients.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Acute inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient clinic at a tertiary cancer center.

Participants

Adult cancer patients (N = 100).

Interventions

Participants were provided with wearable trackers for the duration of the study.

Main Outcome Measures

Survey regarding feasibility (as defined as equal or more than two‐thirds of participants reporting use of the wearable tracker) and usefulness of the wearable tracker and Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS‐FS) in both inpatient and outpatient populations. Activity minutes, number of steps, heart rate, and sleep data were collected from the wearable tracker.

Results

Patients reported the use of a wearable tracker is feasible, with 48/50 (96%) outpatients and 47/50 (94%) inpatients reported wearing the wearable tracker daily and 37/49 (76%) outpatients and 29/50 (58%) inpatients reported that they would continue to wear the wearable tracker after this study. The majority of cancer patients (41/49 [84%] of outpatient and 33/50 [66%] of inpatient patients) reported that the wearable tracker was useful and 41/49 (84%) outpatients and 27/50 (54%) inpatients perceived the wearable tracker as helping to increase physical activity.

Conclusions

The use of wearable trackers in cancer patients is feasible and patients perceive wearable trackers as useful in both the inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation setting. Physical activity in these patients was better in the outpatient population, as expected because of less medical acuity.
Ultrasound‐Guided Fasciotomies of the Deep and Superficial Posterior Leg Compartments for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome: A Cadaveric Investigation
Authors: Reisner Jacob H. , Noble‐Taylor Kayle E. , Cummings Nancy M. , Lachman Nirusha , Finnoff Jonathan T.
Published: August 2020

Background

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is a type of leg pain related to elevated intracompartmental pressure with activity in one or more of the four compartments of the leg. Open fasciotomy is the definitive treatment for CECS but has a reported complication rate of up to 15.7% and return to full activity reported up to 16 weeks. Ultrasound‐guided (USG) fasciotomy of the anterior and lateral compartments has been translated into clinical practice.

Objective

To determine the safety and feasibility of a USG fasciotomy of the deep posterior compartment (DPC) and superficial compartment (SPC) of the leg in a fresh‐frozen cadaveric model.

Design

Prospective, cadaveric laboratory investigation.

Setting

Procedural skills laboratory at an academic institution.

Cadaveric Cohort

Ten fresh‐frozen cadaveric knee‐ankle‐foot specimens from five female and five male donors aged 58 to 93 years (mean 77.4 years) with body mass indexes of 18.1 to 33.5 kg/m2 (mean 25.1 kg/m2).

Methods or Interventions

One experienced operator performed 10 USG DPC and SPC fasciotomies. A clinical anatomist performed dissections of each.

Main Outcome Measures

Achievement of target length and continuity of release was recorded. Target lengths of 10 cm for the superficial posterior compartment (SPC) and 15 cm for the deep posterior compartment (DPC) were established based on previous studies. Tendinous and neurovascular structures were assessed for damage.

Results

No tendon or neurovascular injuries were observed. In the SPC, target length was achieved in 90% and continuous release was observed in 80%. In the DPC, target length was achieved in 60% and continuity observed in 30%.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that SPC USG fasciotomies using the technique described in this study are feasible, may be safe, and warrant further translational research; however, DPC USG fasciotomies are more challenging and require more technical refinement prior to clinical translation.
Field evaluation of biocontrol agents against black‐foot and Petri diseases of grapevine
Authors: del Pilar Martínez‐Diz María , Díaz‐Losada Emilia , Andrés‐Sodupe Marcos , Bujanda Rebeca , Maldonado‐González María M , Ojeda Sonia , Yacoub Amira , Rey Patrice , Gramaje David
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Black‐foot and Petri diseases are the main fungal diseases associated with young grapevine decline. Two field experiments were established to evaluate the preventive effect of two potential biocontrol agents (BCAs), that isStreptomycessp. E1 + R4 andPythium oligandrumPo37, and three BCA‐commercial products containingTrichoderma atrovirideSC1,Trichoderma koningiiTK7 andPseudomonas fluorescens + Bacillus atrophaeuson fungal infection in grafted plants and plant growth parameters.

RESULTS

The effectiveness of some BCA in reducing the incidence and severity of both diseases was dependent on the plant part analyzed and the plant age. No single BCA application was able to control both diseases.Streptomycessp. E1 + R4 were able to reduce significantly the infection of the most prevalent black‐foot disease fungi whileP. oligandrumPo37 andTrichodermaspp. were able to reduce significantlyPhaeomoniella chlamydosporaandPhaeoacremonium minimum(Petri disease) infection. BCA treatments had no effect on the shoot weight, and root weight was significantly lower in all BCA treatments with respect to the control.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of the disease‐suppressive activity of two or more beneficial microbes in a biocontrol preparation is required to prevent infection by black‐foot and Petri disease fungi in vineyards.
A density functional theory study on the structure formation of Al(III) carboxylate complexes in aqueous aluminum sols
Authors: Li Chunlan , Liu Wensheng , Wang Juan , Yao Shuwei , Ma Yunzhu
Published: August 2020

In‐depth studies of the structure of precursor sols is very important for understanding the subsequent sol to gel transition. Here, density functional theory was applied to study the reaction of Al powder with formic and acetic acid in aqueous solution to find the structure of Al(III) complex in precursor sols. The Al3+ ion obtained by dissolving Al powder in aqueous solution of formic and acetic acid would preferentially coordinate with water molecules to form aluminum hydrates. As the reaction energy barrier of aluminum hydrates with CH3COO− and HCOO− was comparable, both aluminum formoacetate and other aluminum carboxylate monomers could be obtained. Most Al(III) complexes formed by other carboxylate monomers were similar to that prepared from aluminum formoacetate. However, some Al(III) monomers and Al(III) dimer with different structural characteristics might be detrimental to the formation of linear polymers. The formation of other aluminum carboxylate monomers had great influence on the structure of precursor sols.
Cutting the ovarian surface improves the responsiveness to exogenous hormonal treatment in aged mice
Authors: Umehara Takashi , Urabe Nao , Obata Toshiki , Yamaguchi Takashi , Tanaka Atsushi , Shimada Masayuki
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Ovarian vascular abnormality and ovarian fibrosis are observed in the low responder patients and aging mice. Vascularization and fibrosis are regulated by injury‐repair system, such as wound. Thus, in this study, the authors tried to investigate the effect of the surgical treatment to ovarian surface with cutting on the functions of ovary in aging mouse model, gcNrg1KO.

Method

The ovarian surface of gcNrg1KO was surgically cut, and then the ovary was returned inside of bursa ovarica. To assess the effect of cutting on fertility, mating test, smear analysis, and exogenous hormonal treatment were done. Additionally, the histological analysis was used for observing the remodeling of ovarian stroma after the surgical approach.

Result

Ovarian fibrosis disappeared at 7 days after surgery. With the abrogation of fibrosis, the blood vessels were fluently observed around the follicles, and the follicular development was re‐started. The responses against exogenous hormone were recovered at 21 days after the surgery, and estrous cycle and delivery were also recovered by the surgery and the fertility was maintained for 3 months.

Conclusion

This cutting method of ovarian surface becomes a good option against low responder patients.
Classification algorithm for high‐dimensional protein markers in time‐course data
Authors: Vishwakarma Gajendra K. , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Banerjee Souvik , Liquet Benoit
Published: August 2020

Identification of biomarkers is an emerging area in oncology. In this article, we develop an efficient statistical procedure for the classification of protein markers according to their effect on cancer progression. A high‐dimensional time‐course dataset of protein markers for 80 patients motivates us for developing the model. The threshold value is formulated as a level of a marker having maximum impact on cancer progression. The classification algorithm technique for high‐dimensional time‐course data is developed and the algorithm is validated by comparing random components using both proportional hazard and accelerated failure time frailty models. The study elucidates the application of two separate joint modeling techniques using auto regressive‐type model and mixed effect model for time‐course data and proportional hazard model for survival data with proper utilization of Bayesian methodology. Also, a prognostic score is developed on the basis of few selected genes with application on patients. This study facilitates to identify relevant biomarkers from a set of markers.
Tunable Metal–Organic Frameworks Based on 8‐Connected Metal Trimers for High Ethane Uptake
Authors: Lei Xiao‐Wu , Yang Huajun , Wang Yanxiang , Wang Yong , Chen Xitong , Xiao Yuchen , Bu Xianhui , Feng Pingyun
Published: August 2020

Metal trimers [M3(O/OH)](OOCR)6 are among the most important structural building blocks. From these trimers, a great success has been achieved in the design of 6‐ or 9‐connected framework materials with various topological features and outstanding gas‐sorption properties. In comparison, 8‐connected trimer‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are rare. Given multiple competitive pathways for the formation of 6‐ or 9‐connected frameworks, it remains challenging to identify synthetic or structural parameters that can be used to direct the self‐assembly process toward trimer‐based 8‐connected materials. Here, a viable strategy called angle bending modulation is revealed for creating a prototypical MOF type based on 8‐connected M3(OH)(OOCR)5(Py‐R)3 trimers (M = Zn, Co, Fe). As a proof of concept, six members in this family are synthesized using three types of ligands (CPM‐80, ‐81, and ‐82). These materials do not possess open‐metal sites and show excellent uptake capacity for various hydrocarbon gas molecules and inverse C2H6/C2H4 selectivity. CPM‐81‐Co, made from 2,5‐furandicarboxylate and isonicotinate, features selectivity of 1.80 with high uptake capacity for ethane (123 cm3 g−1) and ethylene (113 cm3 g−1) at 298 K and 1 bar.
The Effect of Improved Cooling on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir‐Welded Advanced High‐Strength Dual‐Phase Steel
Authors: Mahmoudiniya Mahdi , Kokabi Amir Hossein , Goodarzi Massoud , Kestens Leo A. I.
Published: August 2020

The heat‐affected zone (HAZ) softening is considered one of the most significant challenges during welding of ferrite–martensite dual‐phase (DP) steels. In fact, the strain localization in the softened area results in a premature fracture that degrades the mechanical properties of the joint. Herein, the objective is to investigate the effectiveness of improved cooling using a high thermal diffusivity backing plate (BP) to reduce HAZ softening and enhance the mechanical properties of friction stir‐welded DP700 steel. Accordingly, friction stir butt welding of DP700 steel was conducted using copper and mild steel BPs. The findings show that the replacement of steel BP with copper significantly reduces the weld temperature. It is also observed that the thermal diffusivity of the BP has a substantial effect on the microstructure development and mechanical properties of the welded joint. Increasing the thermal diffusivity of the BP results in a reduction of HAZ softening from 20 to 7 HV and improving tensile strength and total elongation of the joint by 40 MPa and 6.2%, respectively. Work hardening behavior and absorbed energy before the fracture are significantly improved by the replacement of steel BP with a copper.
What kind of students persist in science learning in the face of academic challenges?
Authors: Ng Clarence
Published: August 2020

Science self‐schemas are students' cognitive generalizations of their selves in learning science. Students who hold contrasting science self‐schemas are hypothesized to learn consistently with their salient self‐conception in science. A survey and an experiment provided complementary evidence supporting the self‐congruent engagement hypothesis. Study 1 surveyed 329 Year 9 Australian students and classified them into three schematic groups based on their responses to questionnaire items assessing self‐knowledge defining the science‐self‐schema concept. The results showed that positive, average and negative schematics held contrasting goals, strategies, and grade aspiration congruent with their self‐conceptions when dealing with challenging science tasks. Due to the presence of a valued self, positive schematics compared to the other two groups had stronger intention to further their studies in science and follow a science career in the future. Study 2 used an experimental design to compare positive, negative and average schematics' coping responses when dealing with a difficult test in science. One hundred and one students who had completed the survey study joined Study 2. The findings confirmed the differences between these three groups. Positive and negative schematics completed the test in a way congruent to their self‐conceptions. In the absence of an elaborated self in science, average schematics had less extreme responses compared to the polarized schematic students. The results derived from two studies indicate that science self‐schemas are important identity‐based conceptions for understanding students' science aspiration and coping responses to challenge science.
A Systematic Literature Review of Information Sources for Threat Modeling in the Power Systems Domain
Authors: Ling Engla , Lagerström Robert , Ekstedt Mathias
Published: August 2020

Power systems are one of the critical infrastructures that has seen an increase in cyber security threats due to digitalization. The digitalization also affects the size and complexity of the infrastructure and therefore makes it more difficult to gain an overview in order to secure the entire power system from attackers. One method of how to gain an overview of possible vulnerabilities and security threats is to use threat modeling. In threat modeling, information regarding the vulnerabilities and possible attacks of power systems is required to create an accurate and useful model. There are several different sources for this information. In this paper we conduct a systematic literature review to find which information sources that have been used in power system threat modeling research. Six different information sources were found: expert knowledge, logs & alerts, previous research, system’s state, vulnerability scoring & databases, and vulnerability scanners.
Predictive power of grand unification from quantum gravity
Authors: Eichhorn Astrid , Held Aaron , Wetterich Christof
Published: August 2020

Abstract

If a grand-unified extension of the asymptotically safe Reuter fixed-point for quantum gravity exists, it determines free parameters of the grand-unified scalar potential. All quartic couplings take their fixed-point values in the trans-Planckian regime. They are irrelevant parameters that are, in principle, computable for a given particle content of the grand unified model. In turn, the direction of spontaneous breaking of the grand-unified gauge symmetry becomes predictable. For the flow of the couplings below the Planck mass, gauge and Yukawa interactions compete for the determination of the minimum of the effective potential.
Conformal four-point correlation functions from the operator product expansion
Authors: Fortin Jean-François , Prilepina Valentina , Skiba Witold
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We show how to compute conformal blocks of operators in arbitrary Lorentz representations using the formalism described in [1, 2] and present several explicit examples of blocks derived via this method. The procedure for obtaining the blocks has been reduced to (1) determining the relevant group theoretic structures and (2) applying appropriate predetermined substitution rules. The most transparent expressions for the blocks we find are expressed in terms of specific substitutions on the Gegenbauer polynomials. In our examples, we study operators which transform as scalars, symmetric tensors, two-index antisymmetric tensors, as well as mixed representations of the Lorentz group.
Two-parton scattering amplitudes in the Regge limit to high loop orders
Authors: Caron-Huot Simon , Gardi Einan , Reichel Joscha , Vernazza Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We study two-to-two parton scattering amplitudes in the high-energy limit of perturbative QCD by iteratively solving the BFKL equation. This allows us to predict the imaginary part of the amplitude to leading-logarithmic order for arbitrary t-channel colour exchange. The corrections we compute correspond to ladder diagrams with any number of rungs formed between two Reggeized gluons. Our approach exploits a separation of the two-Reggeon wavefunction, performed directly in momentum space, between a soft region and a generic (hard) region. The former component of the wavefunction leads to infrared divergences in the amplitude and is therefore computed in dimensional regularization; the latter is computed directly in two transverse dimensions and is expressed in terms of single-valued harmonic polylogarithms of uniform weight. By combining the two we determine exactly both infrared-divergent and finite contributions to the two-to-two scattering amplitude order-by-order in perturbation theory. We study the result numerically to 13 loops and find that finite corrections to the amplitude have a finite radius of convergence which depends on the colour representation of the t-channel exchange.
Novel carfilzomib-based combinations as potential therapeutic strategies for liposarcomas
Authors: Jeitany Maya , Prabhu Aishvaryaa , Dakle Pushkar , Pathak Elina , Madan Vikas , Kanojia Deepika , Mukundan Vineeth , Jiang Yan Yi , Landesman Yosef , Tam Wai Leong , Kappei Dennis , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: August 2020

Proteasome inhibitors, such as bortezomib and carfilzomib, have shown efficacy in anti-cancer therapy in hematological diseases but not in solid cancers. Here, we found that liposarcomas (LPS) are susceptible to proteasome inhibition, and identified drugs that synergize with carfilzomib, such as selinexor, an inhibitor of XPO1-mediated nuclear export. Through quantitative nuclear protein profiling and phospho-kinase arrays, we identified potential mode of actions of this combination, including interference with ribosome biogenesis and inhibition of pro-survival kinase PRAS40. Furthermore, by assessing global protein levels changes, FADS2, a key enzyme regulating fatty acids synthesis, was found down-regulated after proteasome inhibition. Interestingly, SC26196, an inhibitor of FADS2, synergized with carfilzomib. Finally, to identify further combinational options, we performed high-throughput drug screening and uncovered novel drug interactions with carfilzomib. For instance, cyclosporin A, a known immunosuppressive agent, enhanced carfilzomib’s efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, these results demonstrate that carfilzomib and its combinations could be repurposed for LPS clinical management.
Reliable improvements in participation in low-impact sports following implantation of a patellofemoral inlay arthroplasty at mid-term follow-up
Authors: Pogorzelski Jonas , Rupp Marco-Christopher , Ketzer Conrad , Cotic Matthias , Lutz Patricia , Beeck Saskia , Imhoff Andreas B. , Feucht Matthias J.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was, to investigate the rate of return to sports (RTS) and physical activity after implantation of PFIA and to identify factors predictive of improved postoperative sporting ability.

Methods

Sixty-two patients with a mean age of 46 ± 11 years, who underwent implantation of PFIA at the senior authors’ institution, were enrolled. They were prospectively evaluated preoperatively and at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively with a mean follow-up of 60 ± 25 months. Clinical outcomes, return to sports and activity, type of sport or activity, subjective satisfaction, and frequency were evaluated by questionnaire.

Results

The transformed overall Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score improved from 67 ± 16 to 77 ± 19 (p = 0.003), Tegner activity scale results improved from 3 ± 2 points to 4 ± 1 points (p < 0.001), and scores on the visual analog scale (VAS) pain scale decreased from 6 ± 2 points to 3 ± 2 points (p < 0.001). The sports frequency increased from 1 ± 2 sessions to 2 ± 1 sessions per week (p = 0.001). Ninety-four percent of the patients who did not fail could return to the same or higher level of sports, with 74% of the patients reporting an improved ability to perform sports. No preoperative factors could be detected to significantly influence RTS after surgery.

Conclusions

PFIA is a valid treatment option for the active patient with end-stage isolated patellofemoral OA. Reliable improvements in knee function, pain, and participation in low-impact sports were found.

Level of evidence

IV.