bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional quantitative MRI of aerosolized gadolinium‐based nanoparticles and contrast agents in isolated ventilated porcine lungs
Authors: Crémillieux Yannick , Montigaud Yoann , Bal Clémence , Pinaud Noël , Pham Vi , Perinel Sophie , Natuzzi Marco , Lux François , Tillement Olivier , Ichinose Nobuyasu , Zhang Bei , Pourchez Jérémie
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The objective of this study is to evaluate the suitability and performance of ultra‐short echo time (UTE) sequences for imaging and quantifying the deposition of nebulized MRI contrast agents in human‐sized lungs.

Methods

Nebulization of clinically used contrast agent or gadolinium‐based nanoparticles were performed using a commercial jet nebulizer in isolated and ventilated porcine lungs connected to a 3D‐printed human upper airways replica. MR images of isolated lungs were acquired on a 3T clinical MR scanner using 3D UTE sequences at different flip angles.

Results

3D acquisitions with isotropic millimetric resolution were obtained in less than 4 min. Images exhibit homogeneous and large MR signal enhancement (above 200%) following nebulization of both types of aerosols. Deposition of aerosol down to the level of the bronchi of secondary lobules was visualized. T1 values and the concentration of nanoparticles obtained by MRI were found to correlate with the amount of nebulized gadolinium3+ ions.

Conclusion

The distribution of aerosolized gadolinium‐based contrast agent or nanoparticles can be visualized and quantified using UTE MRI in large animal ventilated lung model on a clinical MRI scanner. This protocol can be used for assessing and quantifying aerosol regional deposition with high spatial resolution (1 mm 3D isotropic) without ionizing radiation and could be applied in the future for diagnostic or therapeutic applications in patients.
Reevaluating Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Essentiality in Rainbow Trout
Authors: Barry Kelli J , Trushenski Jesse T
Published: October 2019

The National Research Council (NRC) reports that the essential fatty acid requirements of Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss can be satisfied by 0.7–1.0% 18:3(n-3) or 0.4–0.5% n-3 long-chain (LC) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs; defined by NRC as 20:5[n-3] + 22:6[n-3]) in the diet. These requirements were defined roughly 50 years ago and do not consider the importance of n-6 PUFAs in the diet. Therefore, we assessed survival, growth performance, and tissue fatty acid composition of juvenile Rainbow Trout (mean initial weight ± SE = 24.6 ± 0.1 g; 10 fish/tank, 4 tanks/diet) that were fed experimental diets (53% protein; 13% lipid) containing fish oil, fully hydrogenated soybean oil, or fully hydrogenated soybean oil with five different combinations of fatty acid ethyl esters (18:2[n-6], 18:3[n-3], 20:4[n-6], 20:5[n-3], and 22:6[n-3]) to illuminate the relative essentiality of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs. Final individual weight (78.2–132 g), weight gain (216–433%), feed conversion ratio (0.93–1.42), specific growth rate (2.05–2.98% body weight/d), and hepatosomatic index (1.4–2.1) were significantly affected by dietary treatment whereby Rainbow Trout that received the fish oil-based diet outperformed all other treatments. Growth of fish that were given different combinations of fatty acid ethyl esters was not statistically different. Fatty acid tissue composition generally reflected dietary treatment, with the greatest profile changes observed in intraperitoneal fat, fillet, and liver and the smallest changes occurring in brain and eye tissues. Results largely validate previous reports indicating that Rainbow Trout are physiologically able to synthesize LC-PUFAs from C18 PUFAs and therefore do not necessarily require LC-PUFA-rich feeds. However, numeric increases in the growth of Rainbow Trout suggest that this species achieves an energetic advantage if offered n-3 and n-6 LC-PUFAs in the diet.
Prenatal diagnosis and postnatal outcome of anterior urethral anomalies
Authors: Perlman Sharon , Borovitz Yael , Ben‐Meir David , Hazan Yenon , Nagar Ran , Bardin Ron , Brusilov Michael , Dekel Benjamin , Achiron Reuven , Gilboa Yinon
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Anterior urethral anomalies (AUA) which present as anterior urethral valve, stenosis or atresia, are a rare cause for congenital urinary tract obstruction. We present our AUA prenatal diagnosis case series.

Methods

Fetuses presenting with prenatal findings suggestive for AUA according to postnatal reported clinical and imaging signs (urinary tract dilatation, dilated bladder, enlarged edematous fetal penis, dilatation of the fetal urethra and diverticula) were followed prospectively.

Results

Six fetuses were diagnosed with AUA. Diagnosis was confirmed upon examination of the neonate or the abortus. All cases presented with variable degrees of urinary tract dilatation. Four fetuses who presented with additional congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUT) developed intra‐uterine or early postnatal renal failure, while two isolated AUA cases have a normal renal outcome.

Conclusions

AUA is a rare diagnosis. However, high index of suspicion and careful sonographic assessment of the male fetal urethra in cases referred for urinary tract dilatation may enable appropriate parent counseling, optimal prenatal surveillance and timed postnatal urological intervention. As in other lower urinary tract obstructions, future renal function seems to correlate with associated CAKUT, therefore close follow up throughout pregnancy and meticulous sonographic assessment is recommended.
Acceleration effects of 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene with 2‐methylimidazole‐intercalated α‐zirconium phosphate as a latent thermal initiator in the reaction of glycidyl phenyl ether and hexahydro‐4‐methylphthalic anhydride
Authors: Shimomura Osamu , Sasaki Suguru , Kume Kaori , Ohtaka Atsushi , Nomura Ryôki
Published: October 2019

The catalytic effects of 1,5,7‐Triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) with 2‐methylimidazole‐intercalated α‐zirconium phosphate (α‐ZrP∙2MIm) in the reaction of glycidyl phenyl ether (GPE) and hexahydro‐4‐methylphthalic anhydride (MHHPA) were investigated. The reaction did not proceed within 1 h at 60 °C. On increasing the temperature to 100 °C, the conversion reached 93% for 1 h. Without the addition of TBD, the conversion was 67% at 100 °C for 1 h. Under storage conditions at 25 °C for 7 days, the conversion of GPE was only 18%. The curing behavior of 2,2‐bis(4‐glycidyloxyphenyl)propane (DGEBA) and MHHPA in the presence of TBD with α‐ZrP∙2MIm was evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry. The addition of TBD with α‐ZrP∙2MIm as a latent thermal initiator, the storage stability was maintained and the reaction proceeded rapidly under heating conditions. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2557–2561
Surface modification for nano‐lignocellulose fiber through vapor‐phase‐assisted surface polymerization
Authors: Eksiler Kubra , Andou Yoshito , Ariffin Hidayah , Shirai Yoshihito
Published: October 2019

This study addresses the inherent issues surrounding surface modification methods of nanofibers and proposes an environmentally friendly and less toxic strategy for the surface modification of hydrophilic nanofiber. From the continuation of our previous work, which discussed the easy production of nanofiber (average size: 127 nm) from oil palm mesocarp fiber (OPMF), in this work, the surface of nanofibers (M‐IL‐OPMF) were modified through vapor‐phase‐assisted surface polymerization (VASP) to improve the affinity of interface between the polymer grafted M‐IL‐OPMF and non‐polar matrix. VASP of ε‐caprolactone was successfully proceeded from the [M‐IL‐OPMF] at 70 °C for 24 h and 72 h, and compositions were estimated to be 35.7% fiber/64.3% polymer and 27.8% fiber/72.2% polymer. To confirm the grafting of PCL, size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC) and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetry (TG), and dispersibility test in hydrophobic solvent were carried out. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2575–2580
A call to action for expanded sleep research in pediatric oncology: A position paper on behalf of the International Psycho‐Oncology Society Pediatrics Special Interest Group
Authors: Daniel Lauren C. , van Litsenburg Raphaele R.L. , Rogers Valerie E. , Zhou Eric S. , Ellis Sarah J. , Wakefield Claire E. , Stremler Robyn , Walter Lisa , Crabtree Valerie McLaughlin ,   on behalf of the International Psycho‐Oncology Society Pediatrics Special Interest Group
Published: October 2019

Sleep and circadian rhythms are closely related to physical and psychosocial well‐being. However, sleep and circadian rhythm disruptions are often overlooked in children with cancer, as they are frequently considered temporary side effects of therapy that resolve when treatment ends. Yet, evidence from adult oncology suggests a bidirectional relationship wherein cancer and its treatment disrupt sleep and circadian rhythms, which are associated with negative health outcomes such as poor immune functioning and lower survival rates. A growing body of research demonstrates that sleep problems are prevalent among children with cancer and can persist into survivorship. However, medical and psychosocial outcomes of poor sleep and circadian rhythmicity have not been explored in this context. It is essential to increase our understanding because sleep and circadian rhythms are vital components of health and quality of life. In children without cancer, sleep and circadian disturbances respond well to intervention, suggesting that they may also be modifiable in children with cancer. We present this paper as a call to (a) incorporate sleep or circadian rhythm assessment into pediatric cancer clinical trials, (b) address gaps in understanding the bidirectional relationship between sleep or circadian rhythms and health throughout the cancer trajectory, and (c) integrate sleep and circadian science into oncologic treatment.
Content comparison of unmet needs self‐report measures used in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Shunmugasundaram Chindhu , Rutherford Claudia , Butow Phyllis N. , Sundaresan Puma , Dhillon Haryana M.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Morbidity from head and neck cancers (HNCs) and their treatment are significant, given their proximity to anatomical sites impacting facial appearance and function. Assessing the needs of HNC patients throughout their cancer journey is critical to informing quality care and improving quality of life. We aimed to identify available unmet needs measures in the HNC setting and appraise their content and psychometric properties.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of five electronic databases (July 2007‐July 2019) to identify studies of unmet needs in patients with HNC. In addition, three web‐based patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) databases were searched for unmet needs measures. Citations were screened for eligibility and identified measures reviewed for content coverage and psychometric properties. From identified measures and literature, a conceptual framework with 12 clinically relevant aspects of unmet needs was developed and used to assess the conceptual coverage of available unmet needs measures.

Results

Literature search identified 273 records of which 28 studies assessing unmet needs in HNC cancer met eligibility criteria. Seven unmet needs measures were identified from retrieved studies and seven additional measures from PROM databases. Thus, 14 measures in total were reviewed. Content mapping revealed that three measures demonstrated excellent content validity (greater than 80% conceptual coverage): Patient Concerns Inventory (PCI), Needs Assessment for Advanced Cancer Patients (NA‐ACP), and James Supportive Care Screening (JSCS).

Conclusion

We recommend PCI be used to measure unmet needs in the HNC setting considering the importance of content validity over quantitative psychometric properties.
Comprehensive analysis of all evolutionary paths between two divergent PDZ domain specificities
Authors: Teyra Joan , Ernst Andreas , Singer Alex , Sicheri Frank , Sidhu Sachdev S.
Published: October 2019

To understand the molecular evolution of functional diversity in protein families, we comprehensively investigated the consequences of all possible mutation combinations separating two peptide‐binding domains with highly divergent specificities. We analyzed the Erbin PDZ domain (Erbin‐PDZ), which exhibits canonical type I specificity, and a synthetic Erbin‐PDZ variant (E‐14) that differs at six positions and exhibits an atypical specificity that closely resembles that of the natural Pdlim4 PDZ domain (Pdlim4‐PDZ). We constructed a panel of 64 PDZ domains covering all possible transitions between Erbin‐PDZ and E‐14 (i.e., the panel contained variants with all possible combinations of either the Erbin‐PDZ or E‐14 sequence at the six differing positions). We assessed the specificity profiles of the 64 PDZ domains using a C‐terminal phage‐displayed peptide library containing all possible genetically encoded heptapeptides. The specificity profiles clustered into six distinct groups, showing that intermediate domains can be nodes for the evolution of divergent functions. Remarkably, three substitutions were sufficient to convert the specificity of Erbin‐PDZ to that of Pdlim4‐PDZ, whereas Pdlim4‐PDZ contains 71 differences relative to Erbin‐PDZ. X‐ray crystallography revealed the structural basis for specificity transition: a single substitution in the center of the binding site, supported by contributions from auxiliary substitutions, altered the main chain conformation of the peptide ligand to resemble that of ligands bound to Pdlim4‐PDZ. Our results show that a very small set of mutations can dramatically alter protein specificity, and these findings support the hypothesis whereby complex protein functions evolve by gene duplication followed by cumulative mutations.
Methyltransferase CheR binds to its chemoreceptor substrates independent of their signaling conformation yet modifies them differentially
Authors: Li Mingshan , Hazelbauer Gerald L.
Published: October 2019

Methylation of specific chemoreceptor glutamyl residues by methyltransferase CheR mediates sensory adaptation and gradient sensing in bacterial chemotaxis. Enzyme action is a function of chemoreceptor signaling conformation: kinase‐off receptors are more readily methylated than kinase‐on, a feature central to adaptational and gradient‐sensing mechanisms. Differential enzyme action could reflect differential binding, catalysis or both. We investigated by measuring CheR binding to kinase‐off and kinase‐on forms of Escherichia coli aspartate receptor Tar deleted of its CheR‐tethering, carboxyl terminus pentapeptide. This allowed characterization of the low‐affinity binding of enzyme to the substrate receptor body, otherwise masked by high‐affinity interaction with pentapeptide. We quantified the low‐affinity protein–protein interactions by determining kinetic rate constants of association and dissociation using bio‐layer interferometry and from those values calculating equilibrium constants. Whether Tar signaling conformations were shifted by ligand occupancy or adaptational modification, there was little or no difference between the two signaling conformations in kinetic or equilibrium parameters of enzyme‐receptor binding. Thus, differential methyltransferase action does not reflect differential binding. Instead, the predominant determinants of binding must be common to different signaling conformations. Characterization of the dependence of association rate constants on Deybe length, a measure of the influence of electrostatics, implicated electrostatic interactions as a common binding determinant. Taken together, our observations indicate that differential action of methyltransferase on kinase‐off and kinase‐on chemoreceptors is not the result of differential binding and suggest it reflects differential catalytic propensity. Differential catalysis rather than binding could well be central to other enzymes distinguishing alternative conformations of protein substrates.
Low‐Temperature Selective Growth of Heavily Boron‐Doped Germanium Source/Drain Layers for Advanced pMOS Devices
Authors: Porret Clement , Vohra Anurag , Nakazaki Nobuya , Hikavyy Andriy , Douhard Bastien , Meersschaut Johan , Bogdanowicz Janusz , Rosseel Erik , Pourtois Geoffrey , Langer Robert , Loo Roger
Published: October 2019

The peculiarities of heavily boron‐doped germanium, selectively grown at low temperature by means of a cyclic deposition and etch chemical vapor deposition process, are investigated through the analysis of the structural and electrical material properties. The incorporation of B in Ge can exceed 6 × 1020 cm−3, close to a factor 100 above the solubility limit, without any significant degradation of the Ge:B crystalline quality, although high B‐doping induces an unwanted contraction of the Ge lattice. Micro‐Hall effect measurements and the multiring circular transmission line method are used to evaluate the active carrier concentrations and resistivities of Ti/Ge:B contacts. Even though the resistivity of as‐grown layers saturates for chemical B concentrations approaching 1 × 1021 cm−3 and increases beyond that level, a contact resistivity below 3 × 10−9 Ω cm2 is obtained for the highest active doping concentration, showing that a compromise must be found to decrease the total contact resistance. Finally, first principles simulations are used to understand dopant deactivation mechanisms in the Ge:B system. In conclusion, the formation of boron‐interstitial clusters is most likely the cause for electrical performance degradation at high doping values.
Graphene Quantum Dots Band Structure Tuned by Size for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Wentian , Zhang Jiali , Shen Wenzhuo , Zhong Min , Guo Shouwu
Published: October 2019

The electronic states of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) can be tuned by varying the lateral size and edge structure, which further influence their optoelectronic properties and the applications. Herein, three kinds of GQDs with different lateral size are prepared by photon‐Fenton reaction and separated through gel column chromatography, and their effects on the photovoltaic performances of inverted organic solar cells based on the poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and poly(3‐hexylthiophene)/(6,6)‐phenyl‐C61 butyric acid methylester (PCBM) blend films are studied systematically. In comparison with P3HT:PCBM cells, the power conversion efficiency of the P3HT:PCBM solar cells containing 0.8% of GQDs‐blue, GQDs‐green, and GQDs‐orange can be increased from 3.06% to 3.54%, 4.43%, and 3.73% with a short‐circuit current density of 10.3, 13.34, and 11.19 mA cm−2. It is illustrated also that the band structures (electronic energy states) tuned mainly by their lateral size of GQDs are the crucial factor to dominate their photovoltaic preferences as additives in conventional P3HT:PCBM solar cells.
The equatorial stratospheric semiannual oscillation and time‐mean winds in QBOi models
Authors: Smith A. K. , Holt L. A. , Garcia R. R. , Anstey J. A. , Serva F. , Butchart N. , Osprey S. , Bushell A. C. , Kawatani Y. , Kim Y.‐H. , Lott F. , Braesicke P. , Cagnazzo C. , Chen C.‐C. , Chun H.‐Y. , Gray L. , Kerzenmacher T. , Naoe H. , Richter J. , Versick S. , Schenzinger V. , Watanabe S. , Yoshida K.
Published: October 2019

The Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation initiative (QBOi) is a model intercomparison programme that specifically targets simulation of the QBO in current global climate models. Eleven of the models or model versions that participated in a QBOi intercomparison study have upper boundaries in or above the mesosphere and therefore simulate the region where the stratopause semiannual oscillation (SAO) is the dominant mode of variability of zonal winds in the tropical upper stratosphere. Comparisons of the SAO simulations in these models are presented here. These show that the model simulations of the amplitudes and phases of the SAO in zonal‐mean zonal wind near the stratopause agree well with the information derived from available observations. However, most of the models simulate time‐average zonal winds that are more westward than determined from observations, in some cases by several tens of m·s–1. Validation of wave activity in the models is hampered by the limited observations of tropical waves in the upper stratosphere but suggests a deficit of eastward forcing either by large‐scale waves, such as Kelvin waves, or by gravity waves.
Droplet size distributions in turbulent clouds: experimental evaluation of theoretical distributions
Authors: Chandrakar Kamal Kant , Saito Izumi , Yang Fan , Cantrell Will , Gotoh Toshiyuki , Shaw Raymond A.
Published: October 2019

Precipitation efficiency and optical properties of clouds, both central to determining Earth's weather and climate, depend on the size distribution of cloud particles. In this work theoretical expressions for cloud droplet size distribution shape are evaluated using measurements from controlled experiments in a convective‐cloud chamber. The experiments are a unique opportunity to constrain theory because they are in steady‐state and because the initial and boundary conditions are well characterized compared to typical atmospheric measurements. Three theoretical distributions obtained from a Langevin drift‐diffusion approach to cloud formation via stochastic condensation are tested: (a) stochastic condensation with a constant removal time‐scale; (b) stochastic condensation with a size‐dependent removal time‐scale; (c) droplet growth in a fixed supersaturation condition and with size‐dependent removal. In addition, a similar Weibull distribution that can be obtained from the drift‐diffusion approach, as well as from mechanism‐independent probabilistic arguments (e.g., maximum entropy), is tested as a fourth hypothesis. Statistical techniques such as the χ2 test, sum of squared errors of prediction, and residual analysis are employed to judge relative success or failure of the theoretical distributions to describe the experimental data. An extensive set of cloud droplet size distributions are measured under different aerosol injection rates. Five different aerosol injection rates are run both for size‐selected aerosol particles, and six aerosol injection rates are run for broad‐distribution, polydisperse aerosol particles. In relative comparison, the most favourable comparison to the measurements is the expression for stochastic condensation with size‐dependent droplet removal rate. However, even this optimal distribution breaks down for broad aerosol size distributions, primarily due to deviations from the measured large‐droplet tail. A possible explanation for the deviation is the Ostwald ripening effect coupled with deactivation/activation in polluted cloud conditions.
Recent Advances of Porous Graphene: Synthesis, Functionalization, and Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Wan Qijin , Yang Nianjun
Published: October 2019

Graphene is a 2D sheet of sp2 bonded carbon atoms and tends to aggregate together, due to the strong π–π stacking and van der Waals attraction between different layers. Its unique properties such as a high specific surface area and a fast mass transport rate are severely blocked. To address these issues, various kinds of 2D holey graphene and 3D porous graphene are either self‐assembled from graphene layers or fabricated using graphene related materials such as graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide. Porous graphene not only possesses unique pore structures, but also introduces abundant exposed edges and accelerates mass transfer. The properties and applications of these porous graphenes and their composites/hybrids have been extensively studied in recent years. Herein, recent progress and achievements in synthesis and functionalization of various 2D holey graphene and 3D porous graphene are reviewed. Of special interest, electrochemical applications of porous graphene and its hybrids in the fields of electrochemical sensing, electrocatalysis, and electrochemical energy storage, are highlighted. As the closing remarks, the challenges and opportunities for the future research of porous graphene and its composites are discussed and outlined.
U.S. Monetary Policy since the 1950s and the Changing Content of FOMC Minutes
Authors: Siklos Pierre L.
Published: October 2019

Content analysis is used to analyze 60 years of Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes. Since there is no unique algorithm to quantify content, two different algorithms are applied. Wordscores compares content relative to a chosen benchmark, while DICTION is an alternative algorithm that is specifically designed to capture various elements that capture the sentiment or tone conveyed in a text. The resulting indicators are then incorporated into a VAR. The content of FOMC minutes is found to be significantly related to the state of the economy, notably real GDP growth, and changes in the fed funds rate. However, the relationship between content and macroeconomic conditions changes after 1993 when minutes are made public with a lag. Both content indicators also suggest substantive changes in the content of FOMC minutes since the 1950s in terms of the FOMC's dovishness or hawkishness.
Impact of Temperature‐Dependent Hydration Water on Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Weihai , Xiong Juan , Li Jinhua , Daoud Walid A.
Published: October 2019

Water effect on perovskite solar cells has received growing interest in recent years. A widely accepted view is that moderate water content induces the formation of hydrate phase which enhances the recrystallization of the perovskite. However, the underlying factors which influence the formation of hydrate phase are yet to be investigated. Herein, by controlling the annealing temperature, it is demonstrated that 60 °C is the most suitable temperature for the formation of hydrated perovskite. After further annealing at 120 °C, the resulting perovskite film reveals enhanced crystallinity with a more uniform morphology, contributing to device efficiency above 20%. In addition, the water effect on different types of perovskites is studied and it is concluded that the formation of hydrated perovskite is mainly determined by the cations of the perovskite itself. The findings in this work elucidate the conditions for the formation of hydrated perovskite, contributing to the fabrication of highly efficient perovskite solar cells.
A numerical study of tilt‐based wake steering using a hybrid free‐wake method
Authors: Su Keye , Bliss Donald
Published: October 2019

This study investigates the potential of using tilt‐based wake steering to alleviate wake shielding problems experienced by downwind turbines. Numerical simulations of turbine wakes have been conducted using a hybrid free‐wake analysis combining vortex lattice method (VLM) and an innovative free‐wake model called constant circulation contour method (CCCM). Simulation results indicate tilting a horizontal axis wind turbine's shaft upward causes its wake to ascend, carrying energy‐depleted air upward and pumping more energetic replacement air into downstream turbines, thereby having the potential to recover downstream turbine power generation. Wake cross section vorticity and velocity distributions reveal that the wake upward transport is caused by the formation of near‐wake streamwise vorticity components, and furthermore, the wake velocity deficit is weakened because of the skewed wake structure. Beyond the single turbine wake simulation, an inline two‐turbine case is performed as an assessment of the wake steering influence on the two‐turbine system and as an exploratory work of simulating turbine‐wake interactions using the hybrid free‐wake model. Individual and total turbine powers are calculated. A comparison between different tilting angles suggests turbine power enhancement may be achieved by tilting the upstream turbine and steering its wakes away from the downstream turbine.
Fronsdal fields from gauge functions in Vasiliev’s higher spin gravity
Authors: De Filippi David , Iazeolla Carlo , Sundell Per
Published: October 2019

Abstract

In this paper, we revisit a number of issues in Vasiliev’s theory related to gauge functions, ordering schemes, and the embedding of Fronsdal fields into master fields. First, we parametrize a broad equivalence class of linearized solutions using gauge functions and integration constants, and show explicitly how Fronsdal fields and their Weyl tensors arise from these data in accordance with Vasiliev’s central on mass shell theorem. We then gauge transform the linearized piece of exact solutions, obtained in a convenient gauge in Weyl order, to the aforementioned class, where we land in normal order. We spell out this map for massless particle and higher spin black hole modes. Our results show that Vasiliev’s equations admit the correct free-field limit for master field configurations that relax the original regularity and gauge conditions in twistor space. Moreover, they support the off-shell Frobenius-Chern-Simons formulation of higher spin gravity for which Weyl order plays a crucial role. Finally, we propose a Fefferman-Graham-like scheme for computing asymptotically anti-de Sitter master field configurations, based on the assumption that gauge function and integration constant can be adjusted perturbatively so that the full master fields approach free master fields asymptotically.
Tube algebras, excitations statistics and compactification in gauge models of topological phases
Authors: Bullivant Alex , Delcamp Clement
Published: October 2019

Abstract

We consider lattice Hamiltonian realizations of (d+1)-dimensional Dijkgraaf- Witten theory. In (2+1) d, it is well-known that the Hamiltonian yields point-like excita- tions classified by irreducible representations of the twisted quantum double. This can be confirmed using a tube algebra approach. In this paper, we propose a generalisation of this strategy that is valid in any dimensions. We then apply this generalisation to derive the algebraic structure of loop-like excitations in (3+1) d, namely the twisted quantum triple. The irreducible representations of the twisted quantum triple algebra correspond to the simple loop-like excitations of the model. Similarly to its (2+1) d counterpart, the twisted quantum triple comes equipped with a compatible comultiplication map and anR-matrix that encode the fusion and the braiding statistics of the loop-like excitations, respectively. Moreover, we explain using the language of loop-groupoids how a model defined on a man- ifold that isn-times compactified can be expressed in terms of another model inn-lower dimensions. This can in turn be used to recast higher-dimensional tube algebras in terms of lower dimensional analogues.
Long distance effects in inclusive rare B decays and phenomenology of $$ \overline{B} $$→ Xdℓ+ℓ−
Authors: Huber Tobias , Hurth Tobias , Jenkins Jack , Lunghi Enrico , Qin Qin , Vos K. Keri
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Rare inclusive B decays such as

$$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

→ X

s(d)
ℓ
+
ℓ

−
are interesting probes for physics beyond the Standard Model. Due to the complementarity to their exclusive counter- parts, they might shed light on the anomalies currently seen in exclusive b → s transitions. Distinguishing new-physics effects from the Standard Model requires precise predictions and necessitates the control of long distance effects. In the present work we revisit and improve the description of various long distance effects in inclusive decays such as charmo-nium and light-quark resonances, nonfactorizable power corrections, and cascade decays. We then apply these results to a state-of-the-art phenomenological study of

$$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

→ Xdℓ
+
ℓ

−
, including also logarithmically enhanced QED corrections and the recently calculated five- body contributions. To fully exploit the new-physics potential of inclusive flavour-changing neutral current decays, the

$$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

→ Xdℓ
+
ℓ

−
observables should be measured in a dedicated Belle II analysis.
The RNA–RNA base pairing potential of human Dicer and Ago2 proteins
Authors: Pokornowska Maria , Milewski Marek C. , Ciechanowska Kinga , Szczepańska Agnieszka , Wojnicka Marta , Radogostowicz Ziemowit , Figlerowicz Marek , Kurzynska-Kokorniak Anna
Published: October 2019

The ribonuclease Dicer produces microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs that are handed over to Ago proteins to control gene expression by targeting complementary sequences within transcripts. Interestingly, a growing number of reports have demonstrated that the activity of Dicer may extend beyond the biogenesis of small regulatory RNAs. Among them, a report from our latest studies revealed that human Dicer facilitates base pairing of complementary sequences present in two nucleic acids, thus acting as a nucleic acid annealer. Accordingly, in this manuscript, we address how RNA structure influences the annealing activity of human Dicer. We show that Dicer supports hybridization between a small RNA and a complementary sequence of a longer RNA in vitro, even when both complementary sequences are trapped within secondary structures. Moreover, we show that under applied conditions, human Ago2, a core component of RNA-induced silencing complex, displays very limited annealing activity. Based on the available data from new-generation sequencing experiments regarding the RNA pool bound to Dicer in vivo, we show that multiple Dicer-binding sites within mRNAs also contain miRNA targets. Subsequently, we demonstrate in vitro that Dicer but not Ago2 can anneal miRNA to its target present within mRNA. We hypothesize that not all miRNA duplexes are handed over to Ago proteins. Instead, miRNA-Dicer complexes could target specific sequences within transcripts and either compete or cooperate for binding sites with miRNA-Ago complexes. Thus, not only Ago but also Dicer might be directly involved in the posttranscriptional control of gene expression.
Glycosylation of proteins of human skin fibroblasts is changed by rosmarinic acid
Authors: Iwona Radziejewska , Katarzyna Supruniuk
Published: October 2019

Glycosylation is a common post-translational process of protein modification. Glycans participate in many crucial biological functions like cell differentiation, cell adhesion, cell-cell interactions, and regulation of signaling pathways. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a natural flavonoid with many pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, or anti-fibrotic. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of 25, 50, and 100 μM rosmarinic acid on specific carbohydrate antigens in human skin fibroblasts. ELISA-liked test with biotinylated lectins was used to assess the level of sugar structures in cell lysates and culture supernatant. RT-PCR was applied to determine mRNA of selected glycosyltransferases responsible for formation of sugar antigens. Rosmarinic acid inhibited the expression of Tn, T antigens and their sialylated forms, fucosylated antigens, di NAclactosamine, and mannose antigens. All used doses of RA significantly decreased core 1 β1-3galactosyltransferase mRNA and 25 and 50 μM acid significantly inhibited GalNAcα2-6-sialyltransferase mRNA. The results indicate that rosmarinic acid, due to decreasing effect on specific sugar antigens, can change some of crucial carbohydrate functions in skin fibroblasts, e.g., involved in cell adhesion and cell-cell interactions.
Jumping Joints: The Complex Relationship Between Osteoarthritis and Jumping Mechanography
Authors: Shere C. , Fuggle N. R. , Edward M. H. , Parsons C. M. , Jameson K. A. , Cooper C. , Dennison E. M. , Ward K. A.
Published: October 2019

We investigated the relationship between lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) and muscle strength and power (assessed by jumping mechanography) in UK community-dwelling older adults. We recruited 249 older adults (144 males, 105 females). OA was assessed clinically at the knee according to ACR criteria and radiographically, at the knee and hip, using Kellgren and Lawrence grading. Two-footed jumping tests were performed using a Leonardo Mechanography Ground Reaction Force Platform to assess maximum muscle force, power and Esslinger Fitness Index. Linear regression was used to assess the relationship between OA and jumping outcomes. Results are presented as β (95% confidence interval). The mean age of participants was 75.2 years (SD 2.6). Males had a significantly higher maximum relative power during lift off (mean 25.7 W/kg vs. 19.9 W/kg) and maximum total force during lift off (mean 21.0 N/kg vs. 19.1 N/kg) than females. In adjusted models, we found significant associations in males between clinical knee OA and maximum relative power [− 6.00 (CI − 9.10, − 2.94)] and Esslinger Fitness Index [− 19.3 (− 29.0, − 9.7)]. In females, radiographic knee OA was associated with total maximum power [− 2.0 (− 3.9, − 0.1)] and Esslinger Fitness Index [− 8.2 (− 15.9, − 0.4)]. No significant associations were observed for maximum total force. We observed significant negative associations between maximum relative power and Esslinger Fitness Index and clinical knee OA in males and radiographic knee OA in females. We have used novel methodology to demonstrate relationships between muscle function and OA in older adults.
Waiting Too Long: The Contribution of Delayed Surgical Access to Pediatric Disease Burden in Somaliland
Authors: Smith Emily R. , Concepcion Tessa L. , Shrime Mark , Niemeier Kelli , Mohamed Mubarak , Dahir Shugri , Ismail Edna Adan , Poenaru Dan , Rice Henry E. ,   the Global Initiative for Children's Surgery
Published: October 2019

Background

Delayed access to surgical care for congenital conditions in low‐ and middle‐income countries is associated with increased risk of death and life‐long disabilities, although the actual burden of delayed access to care is unknown. Our goal was to quantify the burden of disease related to delays to surgical care for children with congenital surgical conditions in Somaliland.

Methods

We collected data from medical records on all children (n = 280) receiving surgery for a proxy set of congenital conditions over a 12‐month time period across all 15 surgically equipped hospitals in Somaliland. We defined delay to surgical care for each condition as the difference between the ideal and the actual ages at the time of surgery. Disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) attributable to these delays were calculated and compared by the type of condition, travel distance to care, and demographic characteristics.

Results

We found long delays in surgical care for these 280 children with congenital conditions, translating to a total of 2970 attributable delayed DALYs, or 8.4 avertable delayed DALYs per child, with the greatest burden among children with neurosurgical and anorectal conditions. Over half of the families seeking surgical care had to travel over 2 h to a surgically equipped hospital in the capital city of Hargeisa.

Conclusions

Children with congenital conditions in Somaliland experience substantial delays to surgical care and travel long distances to obtain care. Estimating the burden of delayed surgical care with avertable delayed DALYs offers a powerful tool for estimating the costs and benefits of interventions to improve the quality of surgical care.
Feasibility of Hyaluronate Carboxymethylcellulose‐Based Bioresorbable Membrane in Two‐Staged Pancreatojejunostomy
Authors: Yamazaki Shintaro , Takayama Tadatoshi , Mitsuka Yusuke , Yoshida Nao , Yoshida Naoki , Shimamoto Naoaki , Higaki Tokio
Published: October 2019

Background

Two‐staged pancreatoduodenectomy with exteriorization of pancreatic juice is a safe procedure for high‐risk patients. However, two‐staged pancreatoduodenectomy requires complex re‐laparotomy and adhesion removal. We analyzed whether using hyaluronate carboxymethylcellulose‐based bioresorbable membrane (HCM) reduced the time required for the second operation and facilitated good fistula formation in two‐staged pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

Between April 2011 and December 2018, data were collected from 206 consecutive patients who underwent two‐staged pancreatoduodenectomy. HCM has been used for all patients since 2015. Patients for whom HCM was used (HCM group; n = 61) were compared to historical controls (before 2015) without HCM (control group; n = 145) in terms of feasibility of the second operation (operation time, adhesion grade, and complications) and optimal granulation around the external tube at the second laparotomy.

Results

The HCM group showed significantly shorter median operation time [105 min (30–228 min) vs. 151 min (30–331 min); p < 0.001] and smaller median blood loss [36 mL (8–118 mL) vs. 58 mL (12–355 mL); p < 0.001] for the second operation. Neither overall postoperative complication rate (p = 0.811) nor severe‐grade complication rate (p = 0.857) differed significantly. Both groups showed good fistula formation, with no significant difference in rate of optimal fistula formation (HCM group, 95.1% vs. control, 95.9%; p = 0.867).

Conclusion

HCM placement significantly improved safety and duration for the second operation, while preserving good fistula formation.
Reproducibility protocol for diagnostic procedures in Manual/Musculoskeletal Medicine
Authors: Patijn Jacob
Published: October 2019

The International Academy of Manual/Musculoskeletal Medicine (IAMMM) has completely revised the protocol for reproducibility studies of diagnostic procedures in Manual/Musculoskeletal Medicine (M/M Medicine). The protocol was and is aimed at the practitioners in the field of M/M Medicine. This IAMMM protocol can be used in a very practical way and makes it feasible to perform reproducibility studies equally well in private practices and clinics for M/M Medicine with two or more physicians and as by educational boards of the societies of M/M Medicine. This IAMMM protocol provides practical solutions for sample size calculations in reproducibility studies using kappa statistics. Step by step, many different statistical aspects of reproducibility studies are explained, resulting in a very structured protocol format of how to perform a reproducibility study using overall agreement and the kappa value as statistical outcome.
The autoantibody-mediated encephalitides: from clinical observations to molecular pathogenesis
Authors: Ramanathan Sudarshini , Al-Diwani Adam , Waters Patrick , Irani Sarosh R.
Published: October 2019

The autoimmune encephalitis (AE) syndromes have been characterised by the detection of autoantibodies in serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid which target the extracellular domains of specific neuroglial antigens. The clinical syndromes have phenotypes which are often highly characteristic of their associated antigen-specific autoantibody. For example, the constellation of psychiatric features and the multi-faceted movement disorder observed in patients with NMDAR antibodies are highly distinctive, as are the faciobrachial dystonic seizures observed in close association with LGI1 antibodies. These typically tight correlations may be conferred by the presence of autoantibodies which can directly access and modulate their antigens in vivo. AE remains an under-recognised clinical syndrome but one where early and accurate detection is critical as prompt initiation of immunotherapy is closely associated with improved outcomes. In this review of a rapidly emerging field, we outline molecular observations with translational value. We focus on contemporary methodologies of autoantibody detection, the evolution and distinctive nature of the clinical phenotypes, generalisable therapeutic paradigms, and finally discuss the likely mechanisms of autoimmunity in these patients which may inform future precision therapies.
Natural history of diabetic macular edema and factors predicting outcomes in sham-treated patients (MEAD study)
Authors:   on behalf of the Ozurdex MEAD Study Group, Yoon Young Hee , Boyer David S. , Maturi Raj K. , Bandello Francesco , Belfort Rubens , Augustin Albert J. , Li Xiao-Yan , Bai Zhanying , Hashad Yehia
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To describe the natural history of diabetic macular edema (DME) with respect to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) outcomes and to identify baseline patient characteristics and systemic factors associated with improvement or worsening of outcomes in sham-treated patients.

Methods

The study population was sham-treated patients (n = 350) in the 3-year MEAD registration study of dexamethasone intravitreal implant for treatment of DME. Patients had center-involved DME and received sham intravitreal injections in the study eye at ≥ 6-month intervals. Potential prognostic factors for outcomes were evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Visual and anatomic outcomes were poorer in patients who left the study early (n = 198) than in study completers (n = 152). Mean change in BCVA from baseline at the last visit with available data was + 0.9 letters; 37.5% of patients had no change in BCVA, 23.2% had gained > 10 letters, and 16.0% had lost > 10 letters. Older age and baseline diabetic retinopathy score > 6 were associated with worse BCVA outcomes; thicker baseline CRT and larger number of hypertension medications used were associated with larger reductions in CRT during the study.

Conclusions

BCVA and CRT outcomes were variable in this population of DME patients with generally good glycemic control. In DME patients without active treatment, older age and baseline diabetic retinopathy score > 6 were associated with less improvement in BCVA; thicker baseline CRT and a larger number of antihypertensive medications used predicted better improvement in CRT.

Trial registration

The MEAD study trials are registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifiers NCT00168337 and NCT00168389.
A clinically applicable tool for rapidly estimating muscle volume using ultrasound images
Authors: Rothwell Daniel T. , Fong Daniel T. P. , Stapley Sarah A. , Williams David J.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to identify a safe, rapid, and accessible method of estimating muscle volume of key lower limb muscle groups to reduce the time-demand of acquiring this measurement and potentially facilitate its application as a clinical monitoring tool.

Methods

Unilateral MRI images were acquired from the 12th thoracic vertebrae to the base of the foot in 18 recreationally active males. Panoramic B-mode ultrasound images were acquired from the same leg at the mid-hip, 25%, 50%, and 75% of thigh length, and 25% of shank length. Body mass, height, limb lengths, and circumferences at the sites corresponding to the ultrasound images were acquired. A single investigator manually analysed all images. Regression analyses were conducted to identify models for estimating volume of the hip extensor, knee extensor and flexor, and ankle plantarflexor muscle groups.

Results

Models were developed for estimating hip extensor (SEE = 8.92%, R2 = 0.690), knee extensor (SEE = 5.24%, R2 = 0.707) and flexor (SEE = 7.89%, R2 = 0.357), and ankle plantarflexor (SEE = 10.78%, R2 = 0.387) muscle group volumes. The hip and knee extensor models showed good potential for generalisation. Systematic error was observed for the knee flexor and ankle plantarflexor models.

Conclusions

Hip extensor, knee extensor and flexor, and ankle plantarflexor muscle group volumes can be estimated using B-mode ultrasound images and anthropometric measurements. The error shown for each of the models was sufficient to identify previously reported differences in muscle volume due to training or injury, supporting their clinical application.