bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Swelling and Functionalization of Integral Asymmetric Isoporous Block Copolymer Membranes
Authors: Rahman Md. Mushfequr
Published: May 2021

SNIPS stands for a membrane fabrication technique that combines the evaporation induced self‐assembly of the block copolymers and the classical nonsolvent induced phase separation. It is a one‐step readily scalable technique to fabricate integral asymmetric isoporous membranes. The prominent developments in the last decade have carved out a niche for SNIPS as a potential technique to fabricate next generation isoporous membranes. In the last decade, a rich polymer library and variety of membrane postmodification routes have been successfully implemented to fabricate SNIPS membranes having the desired pore functionality. Some of these membranes form soft nanochannels in hydrated state due to swelling of the pore wall, i.e., the pore forming block of the block copolymer. These membranes having soft nanochannels have demonstrated the potential to perform several challenging separation tasks in ultrafiltration and nanofiltration. This paper highlights the currently accessible pore functionality, the strategies to tune the swelling of the soft nanochannels, the potential applications, and future perspectives of these membranes.
CHL1 deletion is associated with cognitive and language disabilities – Case report and review of literature
Authors: Tsuboyama Melissa , Iqbal Mohammed Anwar
Published: May 2021

Background

There is a small, but growing number of reports of pediatric patients with terminal deletions at 3p26.3 involving only the cell adhesion molecule L1‐like (CHL1) gene that has been found to have language delays and intellectual disability. Here we report a one month of age patient who developed seizures and tone abnormalities, with persistent and prominent gross and fine motor delays. The patient has microcephaly and deficits in language and cognitive delays, similar to what has been seen in previous case reports.

Methods

Chromosome and microarray comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis was performed to identify clinically significant copy number variants (CNVs). In addition, Fluorescent in‐situ hybridization (FISH) was performed to confirm the aCGH findings.

Results

Chromosome analysis revealed an apparently normal (46,XX) female karyotype. Microarray CGH analysis revealed a 639 kb loss at 3p26.3 from 62199 to 701052 base pairs encompassing the whole CHL1 gene that was confirmed by FISH. Parental follow‐up revealed the deletion as maternal in origin.

Conclusion

This case report adds to the limited body of literature that exists on this terminal deletion at 3p26.3 that involves CHL1 gene, and supports prior proposals of an emerging CHL1 microdeletion syndrome that results in language and cognitive delays. Further studies are needed to understand the degree of phenotypic heterogeneity associated with CHL1 gene deletion and whether the size of the deletion or presence of additional copy number variants (CNVs) which were seen in other case reports help predict the expected phenotype for a patient.
Fractional residual series for conformable time‐fractional Sawada–Kotera–Ito, Lax, and Kaup–Kupershmidt equations of seventh order
Authors: Al‐Smadi Mohammed
Published: May 2021

The purpose of the present work is to analyze and investigate the analytical solution of the seventh‐order fractional Sawada–Kotera–Ito, Lax, and Kaup–Kupershmidt equations under the conformable derivatives. Using the residual series expansion algorithm, the posed fractional models are studied analytically and numerically. Simultaneously, convergence analysis and error estimation are performed for the proposed technique. For this purpose, an advanced numerical algorithm is designed to handle the complexity of nonlinear fractional terms. Some experiments are provided to support theoretical analysis in a one‐dimensional finite compact regime in light of the conformable sense. Eventually, numerical comparison is performed with other existing techniques along with some two‐ and three‐dimensional representative graphs. Physical interpretation of the solution behaviors is discussed as well for various α values in an adequate time duration. Comparative results indicate the superiority and great flexibility of the presented method for fractional evolution systems arising in nonlinear wave propagation phenomena.
Autocalibrating segmented diffusion‐weighted acquisitions
Authors: Herbst Michael
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Segmented echo‐planar imaging enables high‐resolution diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI). However, phase differences between segments can lead to severe artifacts. This work investigates an algorithm to enable reconstruction of interleaved segmented acquisitions without the need of additional calibration or navigator measurements.

Methods

A parallel imaging algorithm is presented that jointly reconstructs all segments of one DWI frame maintaining their phase information. Therefore, the algorithm allows for an iterative improvement of the phase estimates included in the joint reconstruction. Given a limited number of interleaves, the initial‐phase estimates can be calculated by a traditional parallel‐imaging reconstruction, using the unweighted scan of the DWI measurement as a reference.

Results

Reconstruction of phantom data and g‐factor simulations show substantial improvement (up to 93% reduction in root mean square error) compared with a generalized auto‐calibrating partially parallel‐acquisition reconstruction. In vivo experiments show robust reconstruction outcomes in critical imaging situations, including small numbers of receiver channels or low signal‐to‐noise ratio.

Conclusion

An algorithm for the robust reconstruction of segmented DWI data is presented. The method requires neither navigator nor calibration measurements; therefore, it can be applied to existing DWI data sets.
BOLD sensitivity and vessel size specificity along CPMG and GRASE echo trains
Authors: Scheffler Klaus , Engelmann Jörn , Heule Rahel
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To assess the vessel size specificity and sensitivity of rapid CPMG and GRASE for functional BOLD imaging for different echo train lengths, echo spacings, field strength, and refocusing flip angle schemes. In addition, the behavior of signals acquired before and after the refocusing time points is analyzed.

Methods

Evolution of magnetization within a network of artificial cylinders is simulated with Monte Carlo methods for all relevant coherence pathways. In addition, measurements on microspheres were performed to confirm some of the theoretical results.

Results

For reduced refocusing flip angles, the peak of the vessel size sensitivity curve is shifting toward larger radii with increasing echo time. Furthermore, the BOLD‐related signal change along the echo train depends on the chosen refocusing flip angle scheme and in general does not follow corresponding echo amplitudes.

Conclusion

CPMG or GRASE can be used with low refocusing flip angles without significant loss of sensitivity to BOLD. The evolution of BOLD signal changes along the echo train can be used to design optimal k‐space reordering schemes. Signals acquired before or after the spin echo time point show contributions from larger vessels similar to gradient echo sequences. Short echo spacing (time between refocusing pulses) suppresses gradient echo‐related contributions from larger vessels, whereas the spin echo‐related contribution from small vessels remains constant and is independent of the echo spacing.
GPR‐MCS model of reliability analysis of key blocks and its engineering application
Authors: He Peng , Wang Gang , Xu Fei , Sun Shang‐qu
Published: May 2021

Reasonable rock bolting schemes for potentially unstable blocks should be proposed and optimized in order to prevent rockfall hazard during tunnel construction. However, the reliability index of key block caused by uncertainty of geometric and mechanics parameters is not easy to be obtained by numerical simulation. Since the performance function of stability analysis of supporting key block is too complex, it is also difficult to calculate the reliability by using analytical and graphic methods rapidly. In this paper, the Gaussian process regression (GPR) model was established instead of the explicit function of key block. The safety factor of supporting key block calculated by UnWedge procedure was taken as the sample output of response model. With the GPR model coupling Monte Carlo Simulation (GPR‐MCS), the failure probability of key block could be predicted rapidly. The reliability of key block with different supporting schemes were analyzed, and the optimization of support parameters for key block was also carried out. It has direct meaning to prevention and control of dangerous key block during tunnel construction.
3D viscoelastic computational grains with spherical inclusions with or without interphases/coatings for micromechanical modeling of heterogeneous materials
Authors: Huang Yezeng , Wang Guannan , Dong Leiting , Atluri Satya N.
Published: May 2021

In this article, the 3D viscoelastic computational grains (CGs) with spherical inclusions, with and without interphases/coatings are developed to study the viscoelastic behavior of polymer‐based heterogeneous materials. Papkovich–Neuber solutions and spherical harmonics are adopted to develop the independent displacement fields inside the grains, and Wachspress coordinate is used to interpolate compatible displacement fields at inter‐element surfaces. The elemental stiffness matrices are developed with multi‐field boundary variational principles in the Laplace domain, after which Zakian technique is adopted to invert both the homogenized and localized responses back to the time domain with good accuracy and efficiency. With different kinds of models to describe the property of the viscoelastic polymers, the generated homogenized moduli and localized stress distributions are validated against the experimental data, simulations by commercial FE software, and predictions by composite spherical assemblage models. Parametric studies are also carried out to investigate the influence of material and geometric parameters on the behavior of viscoelastic composites. Finally, the viscoelastic CG is also used to study the effect of the negative Young's modulus of particles on the stability and loss tangent of viscoelastic composites.
Finite element solution of nonlocal Cahn–Hilliard equations with feedback control time step size adaptivity
Authors: Barros Gabriel F. , Côrtes Adriano M. A. , Coutinho Alvaro L. G. A.
Published: May 2021

In this study, we evaluate the performance of feedback control‐based time step adaptivity schemes for the nonlocal Cahn–Hilliard equation derived from the Ohta–Kawasaki free energy functional. The temporal adaptivity scheme is recast under the linear feedback control theory equipped with an error estimation that extrapolates the solution obtained from an energy‐stable, fully implicit time marching scheme. We test three time step controllers with different properties: a simple Integral controller, a complete proportional‐integral‐derivative controller, and the PC11 predictive controller. We assess the performance of the adaptive schemes for the nonlocal Cahn–Hilliard equation in terms of the number of time steps required for the complete simulation and the computational effort measured by the required number of nonlinear and linear solver iterations. We also present numerical evidence of mass conservation and free energy decay for simulations with the three different time step controllers. The PC11 predictive controller is the best in all three‐dimensional test cases.
Low‐cost conductive films based on graphite and cellulose acetate as promising electroanalytical platforms
Authors: Paixão Guilherme A. , Souza Thaís G. , Pradela Filho Lauro A. , Ferreira Marcos V. , Takeuchi Regina M. , Assunção Rosana M. N. , Kikuti Elaine
Published: May 2021

Conducting films were produced by incorporating 35, 50, and 60 wt.%. of graphite in cellulose acetate. The graphite contents showed to be of pivotal importance to the properties of the materials, mainly on the electrochemical performance. Thermal analyses indicated the graphite hinders the crystallization process of cellulose acetate and increases the hydrophobicity of the films. Scanning electron microscopy provided evidence of laminated graphite structures well‐dispersed in the polymeric matrix and exhibited a more porous aspect surface for the 50% G/Composite, which led to a higher surface area obtained by the N2 adsorption/desorption technique. This composite also had a better electrochemical response for ferrocyanide ion. The fabrication method was reproducible, which was associated with the structural uniformity of the resulting material. In addition, the conductive films are ready to use after production, precluding the need for any surface pretreatment. Moreover, the proposed sensor showed analytical potentiality for dopamine and hydroquinone determination, extending the possibilities for new electroanalytical applications.
Mass spectral analysis of secondary metabolites fromZingiber montanumrhizome extract using UHPLC‐HR‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Kabkrathok Pranatthapong , Jarussophon Suwatchai , Unger Onuma , Lomarat Pattamapan , Reutrakul Vichai , Pittayanurak Prapadsorn , Bongcheewin Bhanubong , Anantachoke Natthinee
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Zingiber montanum(J.Koenig) Link ex A.Dietr. is a popular medicinal plant in Thailand. Its rhizomes have been used as an ingredient in various Thai traditional medicine formulas. While many reports have focused on the chemical constituents and biological activities of this plant, a comprehensive study on secondary metabolite profiling using tandem mass spectrometry has, to this point, never been documented.

Objective

To analyze the chemical constituents inZ. montanumrhizomes using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultra‐high‐resolution electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐HR‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS) analyses and to utilize the characteristic fragmentation patterns of these compounds to facilitate their identification.

Methodology

UHPLC‐HR‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS in positive ion mode was used for chemical identification of secondary metabolites from the ethanolic extract of the plant material. MS/MS data of some known reference compounds, together with detailed fragmentation pattern information of several compounds obtained from the crude extract, were used to elucidate their chemical structures.

Results

In this work, one benzaldehyde, ten phenylbutenoid monomers, six curcuminoids, and nine phenylbutenoid dimers were assigned based on their characteristic fragment ions. Among these compounds, 2‐(3,4‐dimethoxystyryl)oxirane was tentatively suggested as a potential new compound. Several characteristic fragment ions from these compounds were assigned and the relative ion abundance of these was also used to differentiate the chemical structures of compounds having the same molecular mass.

Conclusions

The results will benefit future high‐throughput screening of bioactive compounds and method development for the quality control of raw materials and herbal drugs derived fromZ. montanumrhizome extracts.
Antiviral activity of selected cathelicidins against infectious bronchitis virus
Authors: Verheije M. Hélène , Coorens Maarten , Weerts Erik A. W. S. , Berends Alinda J. , van Harten Roel M. , Angel Marloes , Kooij Jannetje , Ordonez Soledad R. , van Beurden Steven J. , van Dijk Albert , Haagsman Henk P. , Veldhuizen Edwin J. A.
Published: May 2021

Avian infectious bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious disease caused by infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a coronavirus of domestic fowl. IB is a major concern in the poultry industry, causing worldwide economic losses through decreased egg production and quality and by increasing the chicken's susceptibility for secondary bacterial infections, particularly Escherichia coli. In this study, the anti‐IBV activity of cathelicidins, small antimicrobial peptides of the innate immune system was investigated. The cell culture adapted (nonvirulent) IBV strain Beaudette was effectively inhibited by the human cathelicidin LL‐37 in bovine hamster kidney‐21 cells at nontoxic concentrations. The peptide needed to be present during virus inoculation to effectively inhibit the infection of IBV‐Beaudette, indicating that LL‐37 likely bound viral particles. However, no clear morphological changes in the IBV virion upon binding were observed by electron microscopy. In this cell culture model, chicken cathelicidins (CATH1‐3) were inactive against IBV‐Beaudette. In contrast, in multicellular infection models using the virulent IBV‐M41 strain the activities of human and chicken cathelicidins were different. In particular, upon inoculation of 10‐day‐old embryonic eggs with IBV‐M41, CATH‐2 reduced the viral load to a higher extend than LL‐37. Similarly, viral infection of chicken tracheal organ cultures with IBV‐M41 was significantly reduced in the presence of CATH‐2 but not LL‐37. These results indicate a potential antiviral role for CATH‐2 upon IBV infection in vivo.
Investigation on the electron density and temperature in a nanosecond pulsed helium plasma jet with Thomson scattering
Authors: Wu Fan , Li JiaYin , Xian YuBin , Tan Xiao , Lu XinPei
Published: May 2021

Diagnostic of spatiotemporal distribution of the electron density and temperature of atmospheric pressure plasma jets is a difficult task, as Thomson scattering, which is the most used measurement, suffers from the stray light induced by Rayleigh scattering. In this paper, a new strategy is reported to restrain the stray light in Thomson scattering. With a physical mask placed at the output of a single spectrometer, the scattering signal is obtained with a relatively high ratio of signal to noise. The electron density in a pulsed kHz‐driven atmospheric plasma jet interacting with a dielectric target is measured by using this method. A donut‐shaped distribution of electron density is observed at an axial position 1 mm away from the nozzle. The radius of the ring structure decreases with the reduction of the gas flow rate. The electron density reaches a maximum of about 4.5 × 1020 m−3 at a delay time of 150 ns from the onset of the pulse. A similar time relationship between the electron density and plasma emission intensity is also identified. Higher applied voltage leads to a faster increasing and a higher peak value of the electron density. Pulse width shows little impact on the generation and decay of electrons.
X‐ray scattering reveals disordered linkers and dynamic interfaces in complexes and mechanisms for DNA double‐strand break repair impacting cell and cancer biology
Authors: Hammel Michal , Tainer John A.
Published: May 2021

Evolutionary selection ensures specificity and efficiency in dynamic metastable macromolecular machines that repair DNA damage without releasing toxic and mutagenic intermediates. Here we examine non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ) as the primary conserved DNA double‐strand break (DSB) repair process in human cells. NHEJ has exemplary key roles in networks determining the development, outcome of cancer treatments by DSB‐inducing agents, generation of antibody and T‐cell receptor diversity, and innate immune response for RNA viruses. We determine mechanistic insights into NHEJ structural biochemistry focusing upon advanced small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) results combined with X‐ray crystallography (MX) and cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM). SAXS coupled to atomic structures enables integrated structural biology for objective quantitative assessment of conformational ensembles and assemblies in solution, intra‐molecular distances, structural similarity, functional disorder, conformational switching, and flexibility. Importantly, NHEJ complexes in solution undergo larger allosteric transitions than seen in their cryo‐EM or MX structures. In the long‐range synaptic complex, X‐ray repair cross‐complementing 4 (XRCC4) plus XRCC4‐like‐factor (XLF) form a flexible bridge and linchpin for DNA ends bound to KU heterodimer (Ku70/80) and DNA‐PKcs (DNA‐dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit). Upon binding two DNA ends, auto‐phosphorylation opens DNA‐PKcs dimer licensing NHEJ via concerted conformational transformations of XLF‐XRCC4, XLF–Ku80, and LigIVBRCT–Ku70 interfaces. Integrated structures reveal multifunctional roles for disordered linkers and modular dynamic interfaces promoting DSB end processing and alignment into the short‐range complex for ligation by LigIV. Integrated findings define dynamic assemblies fundamental to designing separation‐of‐function mutants and allosteric inhibitors targeting conformational transitions in multifunctional complexes.
Does surgery benefit patients with oligometastatic or metastatic prostate cancer? – A retrospective cohort study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Si Shubin , Zheng Bin , Wang Zhenlin , Niu Zhihong
Published: May 2021

Background

To evaluate long‐term oncological outcomes of radical prostatectomy (RP) plus androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in oligometastatic prostate cancer (PCa) patients.

Methods

Our study included oligometastatic PCa patients hospitalized between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2015, who received ADT with or without RP. We evaluated survival by employing Kaplan–Meier methods, with log‐rank tests and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. A meta‐analysis of previously published studies was additionally performed.

Results

The median follow‐up times of both groups were 68.4 months (interquartile range = 56.5–85.0). In this cohort study, significant statistical difference in preoperative total prostate‐specific antigen (tPSA; p = .121), clinical T stage (p = .115), and N stage (p = .394) were not found between the two groups. Meanwhile, the difference in overall survival (OS) between the two groups did not reach statistical significance (p = .649). A significant difference was not observed in castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)‐free survival between two groups as well (p = .183). Numbers of metastases might be an independent prognosis factor (p = .05) for OS, and postoperative tPSA is a risk predictor for CRPC‐free survival (p = .032). A meta‐analysis of four relevant studies demonstrated significant statistical difference in clinical improvement with RP plus ADT over ADT alone in OS survival (p < .001; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38–0.69) instead of CRPC‐free survival (p = .42; HR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.59–1.24).

Conclusion

The addition of RP to ADT for the treatment of oligometastatic PCa was associated with an improved OS instead of CRPC‐free survival.
Influence of a Ser111‐phosphorylation on Rab1b GTPase conformational dynamics studied by advanced sampling simulations
Authors: Pourjafar‐Dehkordi Danial , Zacharias Martin
Published: May 2021

Rab GTPases constitute the largest branch of the Ras protein superfamily that regulate intra‐cellular membrane trafficking. Their signaling activity is mediated by the transition between an active GTP‐bound state and an inactive GDP‐bound state. In the inactive state the switch I and II segments adopt largely disordered flexible conformations, whereas in the active state these regions are in well‐defined conformations. The switch I and II states are central for recognition of Rab GTPases by interacting partners. Phosphorylation of the Rab1b‐GTPase at residue Ser111 (pS111) results in modulation of the signaling activity due to alterations of the protein interaction interface and also due to modulation of the conformational flexibility. We have studied the flexibility of native and pS111‐Rab1b in complex with GTP or GDP using extensive Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations and an advanced sampling method called DIhedral Angle‐biasing potential Replica‐Exchange Molecular dynamics (DIA‐REMD). The DIA‐REMD method promotes backbone and side chain dihedral transitions along a series of replica simulations in selected protein segments and through exchanges also improves sampling in an unbiased reference simulation. Application to the Rab1b system results in significantly enhanced sampling of different switch I/II conformational states in the GDP‐bound Rab1b state. The pS111 modification is found to reduce the conformational flexibility even in the presence of GDP, which may influence signaling activities. The stabilizing effect can be attributed to the formation of additional surface salt bridges between Arg‐residues and pS111 not present in the native structure. The DIA‐REMD method could be a valuable approach for studying also other signaling proteins that contain flexible segments.
Molecular updates on berberine in liver diseases: Bench to bedside
Authors: Bansod Sapana , Saifi Mohd Aslam , Godugu Chandraiah
Published: May 2021

Liver diseases are life‐threatening illnesses and are the major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. These may include liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and drug‐induced liver toxicity. Liver diseases have a wide prevalence globally and the fifth most common cause of death among all gastrointestinal disorders. Several novel therapeutic approaches have emerged for the therapy of liver diseases that may provide better clinical outcomes with improved safety. The use of phytochemicals for the amelioration of liver diseases has gained considerable popularity. Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid of the protoberberine type, has emerged as a promising molecule for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Accumulating studies have proved the hepatoprotective effects of BBR. BBR has been shown to modulate multiple signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of liver diseases including Akt/FoxO2, PPAR‐γ, Nrf2, insulin, AMPK, mTOR, and epigenetic pathways. In the present review, we have emphasized the important pharmacological activities and mechanisms of BBR in liver diseases. Further, we have reviewed various pharmacokinetic and toxicological barriers of this promising phytoconstituent. Finally, formulation‐based novel approaches are also summarized to overcome the clinical hurdles for BBR.
On the parameters that influence road vehicles vibration levels
Authors: Lamb Matthew James , Rouillard Vincent
Published: May 2021

It has long been recognised that the level of road vehicle vibrations are mainly a function of vehicle characteristics, road roughness and vehicle speed. With the introduction of easy‐to‐use vibration data recorders, significant amounts of data have been recorded, and numerous studies on the rms levels of truck vibrations have been published. However, the results available to date are typically from specific scenarios and do not provide comprehensive comparisons with similar published work. In addition, most of the publications only report the mean rms level with no indication of how the rms varies throughout the journey nor statistical information on the likelihood of particular rms levels being exceeded. This paper brings together the available information on road transport vehicle vibration levels for analysis. It does so by first collating published mean vibration rms values for a broad range of scenarios and supplements them with additional mean rms values recorded by the authors. The collated results were analysed statistically to reveal the influence of important parameters, namely, suspension type, road type, payload and vehicle type. Results from the statistical analysis are used to quantify the influence of each parameter and to allow for the prediction of expected rms levels based on the transport scenario. This introduces a risk‐based approach to laboratory testing which allows the analyst to set the test rms levels based the road transport scenario and the accepted level of risk.
Transportable Strontium Optical Lattice Clocks Operated Outside Laboratory at the Level of 10−18 Uncertainty
Authors: Ohmae Noriaki , Takamoto Masao , Takahashi Yosuke , Kokubun Motohide , Araki Kuniya , Hinton Andrew , Ushijima Ichiro , Muramatsu Takashi , Furumiya Tetsuo , Sakai Yuya , Moriya Naoji , Kamiya Naohiro , Fujii Kazuaki , Muramatsu Ryuya , Shiimado Toshihiro , Katori Hidetoshi
Published: May 2021

Transportable strontium optical lattice clocks are developed with a fractional uncertainty of 5.5 × 10−18 for applications outside laboratories. A single clock consists of a spectroscopy chamber and two laser boxes, where all lasers are based on external cavity diode lasers with an adjustment‐free, laser‐welded output coupler. When this system is transported from the laboratory at RIKEN to a broadcasting tower, the instruments experience acceleration change of 4 G at maximum. However, no serious optical misalignments are found. The demonstration opens up field applications of optical atomic clocks resolving a centimeter height difference.
Fatal pulmonary thromboembolism caused by idiopathic ovarian vein thrombosis
Authors: Ogiwara Masanori , Ozaki Masahiko , Nishino Yoshifumi , Miyahara Takuya
Published: May 2021

Ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is observed in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. It is occasionally diagnosed during the postpartum period or in patients with ovarian malignancy. Few cases of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) caused by OVT have been reported previously. We report the case of a 67‐year‐old woman who presented with fatal PTE due to left OVT during hospitalization for cerebral infarction. The left ovary of the postmenopausal elderly patient showed no tumorous appearance. This case of OVT is extremely rare because of its idiopathic nature and fatal result.
Adaptive output feedback tracking for a class of nonlinear systems with quantized input and output
Authors: Yu Xiaowei , Lin Yan
Published: May 2021

In this paper, an adaptive output feedback tracking for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with input and output quantization is investigated. A new controller structure is introduced in which a modified output quantizer is proposed so that its first‐order derivative exists, and an observer is designed with quantized input and output as its input signals. Then, with dynamic surface control as a tool, an adaptive recursive design is developed which can avoid higher‐order derivatives of the quantized output signal. It is proved that, with the proposed scheme, coarser input and output quantization can be achieved and the tracking error can converge to a small residual set by appropriately choosing some design parameters.
Gender Differences in Text‐Based Interest: Text Characteristics as Underlying Variables
Authors: Lepper Chantal , Stang Justine , McElvany Nele
Published: May 2021

Reading motivation is a fundamental basis for reading behavior and performance. For learners, interest is an exceedingly important component of reading motivation. Prior research has shown that students’ text‐based interest varies significantly between texts. However, it is still unclear why one text elicits greater interest over another. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether different text characteristics, such as text genre, topic, and protagonists’ gender, are systematically related to students’ text‐based interest. Furthermore, we examined differences between girls and boys. We used data from a sample of 504 fourth‐grade elementary school students to answer these questions. Eight texts were manipulated experimentally with respect to text genre, topic, and protagonists’ gender. Students were assigned randomly to read one of the eight texts. Structural equation models showed that students’ text‐based interest was related to text genre, topic, and students’ gender. Moreover, students’ gender interacted significantly with text topic and protagonists’ gender, with boys less interested in texts with a more female‐typed text topic and in texts with female protagonists. The findings imply that text characteristics might help educators select reading material to encourage students’ text‐based interest. The results are discussed in terms of research and educational practice.
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus seroprevalence in Scottish finishing pigs between 2006 and 2018
Authors: Correia‐Gomes Carla , Duncan Andrew , Ward Allan , Pearce Michael , Eppink Lysan , Webster Grace , McGowan Andy , Thomson Jill
Published: May 2021

Background

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a major endemic pig disease worldwide and is associated with considerable economic costs.

Methods

In Scotland, three abattoir surveys were conducted in 2006 (158 farms), 2012‒2013 (94 farms) and 2017‒2018 (97 farms) to estimate seroprevalence to PRRS virus (PRRSV) in commercial finishing pigs. These surveys covered around 79%, 59% and 66% of the Quality Meat Scotland assured farms slaughtering pigs in Scotland in 2006, 2012–13 and, 2017–18 respectively. In the 2006 survey, six pigs per farm were sampled and tested using the CIVTEST SUIS PRRS E/S test. In the 2012‒2013 and 2017‒2018 surveys, 10 pigs per farm were sampled and tested using the IDEXX PRRS X3 Ab test. A farm was considered positive if it had one or more seropositive samples.

Results

The prevalence of positive farms was 45.6% (95% CI: 38.0–53.4), 47.8% (95% CI: 38.1–57.9) and 45.4% (95% CI: 35.8–55.3) in the 2006, 2012‒2013 and 2017‒2018 surveys, respectively, and 70%–75.5% farms did not change their status between sampling periods.

Conclusion

The prevalence of PRRSV exposure in Scottish pig herds was high and changed little from 2006 to 2018. These surveys have informed planning for a prospective PRRS control programme in Scotland.
Detection of Porcine circovirus 3 from captured wild boars in Korea
Authors: Dhandapani Gowtham , Yoon Sun‐Woo , Noh Ji Yeong , Jang Seong Sik , Han Sang‐Hoon , Jeong Dae Gwin , Kim Hye Kwon
Published: May 2021

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is a newly discovered ssDNA virus. The virus was first reported in pigs suffering from several clinical syndromes, including porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome, reproductive disorders, respiratory disease and myocarditis. PCV3 was recently reported in wild boars with high prevalence as well. In this study, 266 wild boar anal swab, feces, nasal swab and whole blood samples were collected from three mainland provinces and one island province (Chungbuk, Gangwon, Gyeonggi, Jeju) of South Korea between 2019 and 2020 including 119 from male, 142 from female and 5 undetermined. PCV3 was diagnosed targeting conserved rep (replication associated protein) gene region using Direct PCR and sequencing. Out of 266 tested samples, 15 were positive for PCV3 with detection frequency at 5.6%. Among 266 samples tested, we obtained 14 partial rep gene sequences and one complete genome sequence of PCV3 with a genome size of 2000nt. Here we present the evidence of PCV3 circulation in Korean wild boars.
Jejunocecostomy in a Grant's zebra (Equus quagga boehmi)
Authors: Maleas Grigorios , Drumm Niklas
Published: May 2021

A stallion zebra (Equus quagga boehmi) showed severe symptoms of acute colic. Clinical examination revealed a small intestinal mechanical obstruction. The surgical diagnosis was volvulus of 360° of the aboral part of the jejunum and the majority of the ileum. The ischemic segment was resectioned, and a side‐to‐side, hand‐sewn jejunocecostomy (JC) was performed. The recovery and postoperative periods passed without complications. The stallion zebra's 48‐month survival data recorded no colic incidence. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of a successful resection and JC in a zebra. This case report describes the successful management of a small intestinal obstruction through a technically demanding surgical procedure and provides details about the postoperative treatment tailored to the animal's nature.
Datenaufbereitung
Authors: Dix Carolin
Published: May 2021

Ein entscheidender Schritt bei der empirisch-qualitativen Analyse natürlicher Interaktionsereignisse ist neben der Datenerhebung die Datenaufbereitung. Transkripte spiele dabei eine zentrale Rolle. Das Kapitel gibt einen Überblick über aktuell genutzte Systeme für die Transkription von Multimodalität vor. Zudem führt es ein neues System ein, das auf der Grundlage von Konventionen wie GAT2 und dem International SignWriting Alphabet (ISWA) imRahmen dieser Arbeit entwickelt wurde.
Die Predigt aus theologischer Sicht
Authors: Dix Carolin
Published: May 2021

Das Kapitel stellt für die Analyse relevante Forschungslinien innerhalb der Praktischen Theologie und speziell der Homiletik vor. Im Zentrum stehen Ansätze, die einen empirischen Zugang nutzen und Bezug nehmen auf außertheologische, v.a. linguistische Theorien und Methoden.
Kommunikative Projekte & kommunikative Praktiken
Authors: Dix Carolin
Published: May 2021

Eine Rezeption und Weiterentwicklung hat sowohl das Konzept der sprachlichen Gattungen nach Bachtin als auch das Modell der kommunikativen Gattungen nach Luckmann im Programm der kommunikativen Aktivitätstypen und der kommunikativen Projekte durch Per Linell erfahren. Neben diesem Konzept stellt das Kapitel den Begriff der kommunikativen Praktik vor und erstellt anhand des Gegenstandes der Predigt eine begriffliche Klassifikation, in der zwischen dem kommunikativen Projekt, der kommunikativen Gattung und unterschiedlichen Aktivitätstypen unterschieden wird.
National Veterinary Services Roles and Responsibilities in Preparing for and Responding to Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies
Authors: Vroegindewey Gary
Published: May 2021

National Veterinary Services have a wide range of regulatory and operational responsibilities as directed by their respective countries including: animal health, animal welfare, food safety, zoonotic disease surveillance and control, import and export regulations, trade in livestock and livestock products, disaster management, and other functional areas. These services can utilize numerous guidelines and standards to prepare for and respond to nuclear and radiologic events. In addition to their national and regional guidelines, there are resources developed by the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency, United Nations Food and Agriculture Agency, the World Organization for Animal Health and other entities to support disaster risk reduction, preparedness and response. National Veterinary Services can utilitze all these resources to effectively and effeciently respond to nuclear and radiological emergencies.
Preparedness and Response to Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies in Animal Production Systems in the Context of IAEA Safety Standards
Authors: Kelleher Kevin
Published: May 2021

The IAEA has published Safety Standards and Scientific and Technical Publications to assist in developing an adequate level of preparedness and response for a NRE. This Chapter outlines and summarises the relevant content the Requirements and Safety Standards to assist the stakeholders in animal production systems to adequately prepare and respond to a NRE.
Stimmdiagnostik bei phonochirurgischen Eingriffen
Authors: Schneider-Stickler Berit
Published: May 2021

Stimmdiagnostische Untersuchungen vor und nach phonochirurgischen Eingriffen dienen zum einen der detaillierten Planung der chirurgischen Vorgehensweise und zum anderen der Nachvollziehbarkeit des postoperativen Ergebnisses. Die Stimmdiagnostik verfolgt dabei eine vielschichtige Vorgehensweise und umfasst Aspekte aus perzeptiver Stimmklangbeurteilung, Laryngostroboskopie, Stimmakustik, Aerodynamik und der Selbsteinschätzung durch die Patient*innen. Die Auswahl stimmdiagnostischer Methoden sollte sich dabei immer am aktuellen Wissensstand orientieren und das einrichtungsinterne Vorgehen prägen.
Comparison between data-driven clusters and models based on clinical features to predict outcomes in type 2 diabetes: nationwide observational study
Authors: Lugner Moa , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Sattar Naveed , Svensson Ann-Marie , Miftaraj Mervete , Eeg-Olofsson Katarina , Eliasson Björn , Franzén Stefan
Published: May 2021

Aims/hypothesis

Research using data-driven cluster analysis has proposed five novel subgroups of diabetes based on six measured variables in individuals with newly diagnosed diabetes. Our aim was (1) to validate the existence of differing clusters within type 2 diabetes, and (2) to compare the cluster method with an alternative strategy based on traditional methods to predict diabetes outcomes.

Methods

We used data from the Swedish National Diabetes Register and included 114,231 individuals with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. k-means clustering was used to identify clusters based on nine continuous variables (age at diagnosis, HbA1c, BMI, systolic and diastolic BP, LDL- and HDL-cholesterol, triacylglycerol and eGFR). The elbow method was used to determine the optimal number of clusters and Cox regression models were used to evaluate mortality risk and risk of CVD events. The prediction models were compared using concordance statistics.

Results

The elbow plot, with values of k ranging from 1 to 10, showed a smooth curve without any clear cut-off points, making the optimal value of k unclear. The appearance of the plot was very similar to the elbow plot made from a simulated dataset consisting only of one cluster. In prediction models for mortality, concordance was 0.63 (95% CI 0.63, 0.64) for two clusters, 0.66 (95% CI 0.65, 0.66) for four clusters, 0.77 (95% CI 0.76, 0.77) for the ordinary Cox model and 0.78 (95% CI 0.77, 0.78) for the Cox model with smoothing splines. In prediction models for CVD events, the concordance was 0.64 (95% CI 0.63, 0.65) for two clusters, 0.66 (95% CI 0.65, 0.67) for four clusters, 0.77 (95% CI 0.77, 0.78) for the ordinary Cox model and 0.78 (95% CI 0.77, 0.78) for the Cox model with splines for all variables.

Conclusions/interpretation

This nationwide observational study found no evidence supporting the existence of a specific number of distinct clusters within type 2 diabetes. The results from this study suggest that a prediction model approach using simple clinical features to predict risk of diabetes complications would be more useful than a cluster sub-stratification.

Graphical abstract
Structural optimisation of diffusion driven degradation processes
Authors: Waschinsky Navina , Barthold Franz-Joseph , Menzel Andreas
Published: May 2021

In this article, we propose an optimisation framework that can contribute to the prevention of premature failure or damage to building structures and can thereby strengthen their longevity. We concentrate on structures that are contaminated by chemical substances and that have strong destructive effects on the material. The aim of this contribution is a mathematical algorithm that allows the optimisation of a structure exposed to chemical influences and thus the assurance of the static load capacity. To achieve this, we present a coupled mechanical-diffusion-degradation approach embedded in a finite element (FE) framework. Furthermore, we integrate an optimisation algorithm to reduce material degradation. In this paper, we establish shape optimisation of a structure with a gradient based optimisation algorithm.
Growth of LixLaySrzMnO3 thin films by pulsed laser deposition: complex relation between thin film composition and deposition parameters
Authors: Bimashofer G. , Smetaczek S. , Gilardi E. , Schneider C. W. , Limbeck A. , Lippert T. , Stahn J.
Published: May 2021

LixLaySrzMnO3 thin films of various compositions (x,y,z) have been grown using pulsed laser deposition. The compositions of the films have been studied as a function of deposition temperature, target-to-substrate distance and deposition pressure with respect to different cation ratios of the targets by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. When growing multi-elemental oxide thin films containing lithium (with its large mass difference to other elements), lithium loss is most probably inevitable. But the desired thin film composition can be achieved by selecting specific growth conditions and different target compositions. The experiments also elucidate some of the mechanisms behind the incongruent lithium transfer from the targets to thin films.
Hot and cold flavors of southern California’s Santa Ana winds: their causes, trends, and links with wildfire
Authors: Gershunov Alexander , Guzman Morales Janin , Hatchett Benjamin , Guirguis Kristen , Aguilera Rosana , Shulgina Tamara , Abatzoglou John T. , Cayan Daniel , Pierce David , Williams Park , Small Ivory , Clemesha Rachel , Schwarz Lara , Benmarhnia Tarik , Tardy Alex
Published: May 2021

Santa Ana winds (SAWs) are associated with anomalous temperatures in coastal Southern California (SoCal). As dry air flows over SoCal’s coastal ranges on its way from the elevated Great Basin down to sea level, all SAWs warm adiabatically. Many but not all SAWs produce coastal heat events. The strongest regionally averaged SAWs tend to be cold. In fact, some of the hottest and coldest observed temperatures in coastal SoCal are linked to SAWs. We show that hot and cold SAWs are produced by distinct synoptic dynamics. High-amplitude anticyclonic flow around a blocking high pressure aloft anchored at the California coast produces hot SAWs. Cold SAWs result from anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking over the northwestern U.S. Hot SAWs are preceded by warming in the Great Basin and dry conditions across the Southwestern U.S. Precipitation over the Southwest, including SoCal, and snow accumulation in the Great Basin usually precede cold SAWs. Both SAW flavors, but especially the hot SAWs, yield low relative humidity at the coast. Although cold SAWs tend to be associated with the strongest winds, hot SAWs tend to last longer and preferentially favor wildfire growth. Historically, out of large (> 100 acres) SAW-spread wildfires, 90% were associated with hot SAWs, accounting for 95% of burned area. As health impacts of SAW-driven coastal fall, winter and spring heat waves and impacts of smoke from wildfires have been recently identified, our results have implications for designing early warning systems. The long-term warming trend in coastal temperatures associated with SAWs is focused on January–March, when hot and cold SAW frequency and temperature intensity have been increasing and decreasing, respectively, over our 71-year record.
Autoantibody-associated psychiatric syndromes in children: link to adult psychiatry
Authors: Hansen Niels , Luedecke Daniel , Malchow Berend , Lipp Michael , Vogelgsang Jonathan , Timäus Charles , Zindler Tristan , Gingele Stefan , Kühn Simone , Gallinat Jürgen , Wiedemann Klaus , Denk Johannes , Moschny Nicole , Fiehler Jens , Skripuletz Thomas , Riedel Christian , Wattjes Mike P. , Zerr Inga , Esselmann Hermann , Poustka Luise , Karow Anne , Hartmann Hans , Frieling Helge , Bleich Stefan , Wiltfang Jens , Neyazi Alexandra ,   + CAP (Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis in Psychiatry)-Consortium
Published: May 2021

Studies show that psychiatric symptoms in adults and children are sometimes associated with serum neural autoantibodies. The significance of serum neural autoantibodies associated with psychiatric symptoms in children remains often unclear, but might be relevant for the extent and occurrence of psychiatric disease manifestation in later life, as well as therapy and outcome. For this narrative review, we sought articles listed in PubMed and published between 1988 and 2020 addressing the maternal–fetal transfer of neural autoantibodies and psychiatric disorders associated with serum neural autoantibodies. We identified six major subgroups of psychiatric disorders in children that are associated with serum neural autoantibodies: patients with attentional deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, psychosis and catatonia. Furthermore, we summarized study findings from maternal–fetal transfer of Contactin-associated protein-like 2, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor and fetal brain autoantibodies associated with behavioral effects in animals and humans. We hypothesize that the maternal transfer of serum neuronal autoantibodies during or after birth could result (1) in the ignition of an autoimmune-mediated inflammation having neurodevelopmental consequences for their children (autoimmune-priming-attack hypothesis) and (2) has a potential impact on the later manifestation of psychiatric disorders. Through this narrative review, we propose a diagnostic pathway for the clinical diagnosis of a potentially autoimmune origin of psychiatric symptoms in children while considering recent guidelines.