bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerating iterative coordinate descent using a stored system matrix
Authors: Hsieh Scott S. , Hoffman John M. , Noo Frederic
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The computational burden associated with model‐based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) is still a practical limitation. Iterative coordinate descent (ICD) is an optimization approach for MBIR that has sometimes been thought to be incompatible with modern computing architectures, especially graphics processing units (GPUs). The purpose of this work is to accelerate the previously released open‐source FreeCT_ICD to include GPU acceleration and to demonstrate computational performance with ICD that is comparable with simultaneous update approaches.

Methods

FreeCT_ICD uses a stored system matrix (SSM), which precalculates the forward projector in the form of a sparse matrix and then reconstructs on a rotating coordinate grid to exploit helical symmetry. In our GPU ICD implementation, we shuffle the sinogram memory ordering such that data access in the sinogram coalesce into fewer transactions. We also update NS voxels in the xy‐plane simultaneously to improve occupancy. Conventional ICD updates voxels sequentially (NS = 1). Using NS > 1 eliminates existing convergence guarantees. Convergence behavior in a clinical dataset was therefore studied empirically.

Results

On a pediatric dataset with sinogram size of 736 × 16 × 13860 reconstructed to a matrix size of 512 × 512 × 128, our code requires about 20 s per iteration on a single GPU compared to 2300 s per iteration for a 6‐core CPU using FreeCT_ICD. After 400 iterations, the proposed and reference codes converge within 2 HU RMS difference (RMSD). Using a wFBP initialization, convergence within 10 HU RMSD is achieved within 4 min. Convergence is similar with NS values between 1 and 256, and NS = 16 was sufficient to achieve maximum performance. Divergence was not observed until NS > 1024.

Conclusions

With appropriate modifications, ICD may be able to achieve computational performance competitive with simultaneous update algorithms currently used for MBIR.
Calibration‐free beam hardening reduction in x‐ray CBCT using the epipolar consistency condition and physical constraints
Authors: Würfl Tobias , Hoffmann Mathis , Aichert André , Maier Andreas K. , Maaß Nicole , Dennerlein Frank
Published: December 2019

Background

The beam hardening effect is a typical source of artifacts in x‐ray cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). It causes streaks in reconstructions and corrupted Hounsfield units toward the center of objects, widely known as cupping artifacts.

Purpose

We present a novel efficient projection data‐based method for reduction of beam‐hardening artifacts and incorporate physical constraints on the shape of the compensation functions. The method is calibration‐free and requires no additional knowledge of the scanning setup.

Method

The mathematical model of the beam hardening effect caused by a single material is analyzed. We show that the effect of beam hardening on the resulting functions on the line integral measurements are monotonous and concave functions of the ideal data. This holds irrespective of any limiting assumptions on the energy dependency of the material, the detector response or properties of the x‐ray source. A regression model for the beam hardening effect respecting these theoretical restrictions is proposed. Subsequently, we present an efficient method to estimate the parameters of this model directly in projection domain using an epipolar consistency condition. Computational efficiency is achieved by exploiting the linearity of an intermediate function in the formulation of our optimization problem.

Results

Our evaluation shows that the proposed physically constrained ECC algorithm is effective even in challenging measured data scenarios with additional sources of inconsistency.

Conclusions

The combination of mathematical consistency condition and a compensation model that is based on the properties of x‐ray physics enables us to improve image quality of measured data retrospectively and to decrease the need for calibration in a data‐driven manner.
One network to solve all ROIs: Deep learning CT for any ROI using differentiated backprojection
Authors: Han Yoseob , Ye Jong Chul
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Computed tomography for the reconstruction of region of interest (ROI) has advantages in reducing the x‐ray dose and the use of a small detector. However, standard analytic reconstruction methods such as filtered back projection (FBP) suffer from severe cupping artifacts, and existing model‐based iterative reconstruction methods require extensive computations. Recently, we proposed a deep neural network to learn the cupping artifacts, but the network was not generalized well for different ROIs due to the singularities in the corrupted images. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for a neural network that works well for any ROI size.

Method

Two types of neural networks are designed. The first type learns ROI size‐specific cupping artifacts from FBP images, whereas the second type network is for the inversion of the truncated Hilbert transform from the truncated differentiated backprojection (DBP) data. Their generalizabilities for different ROI sizes, pixel sizes, detector pitch and starting angles for a short scan are then investigated.

Results

Experimental results show that the new type of neural networks significantly outperform existing iterative methods for all ROI sizes despite significantly lower runtime complexity. In addition, performance improvement is consistent across different acquisition scenarios.

Conclusions

Since the proposed method consistently surpasses existing methods, it can be used as a general CT reconstruction engine for many practical applications without compromising possible detector truncation.
A two‐dimensional feasibility study of deep learning‐based feature detection and characterization directly from CT sinograms
Authors: De Man Quinten , Haneda Eri , Claus Bernhard , Fitzgerald Paul , De Man Bruno , Qian Guhan , Shan Hongming , Min James , Sabuncu Mert , Wang Ge
Published: December 2019

Machine Learning, especially deep learning, has been used in typical x‐ray computed tomography (CT) applications, including image reconstruction, image enhancement, image domain feature detection and image domain feature characterization. To our knowledge, this is the first study on machine learning for feature detection and analysis directly based on CT projection data. Specifically, we present neural network methods for blood vessel detection and characterization in the sinogram domain avoiding any partial volume, beam hardening, or motion artifacts introduced during reconstruction. First, we estimate sinogram domain vessel maps using a residual encoder–decoder convolutional neural network (REDCNN). Next, we estimate the vessel centerline and we extract the vessel‐only sinogram from the original sinogram, eliminating any background information. Finally, we use a fully connected neural network to estimate the vessel lumen cross‐sectional area from the vessel‐only sinogram. We trained and tested the proposed methods using CatSim simulations, real CT measurements of vessel phantoms, and clinical data from the NIH CT image database. We achieved encouraging initial results showing the feasibility of CT analysis in the sinogram domain. In principle, sinogram domain analysis should be possible for many other and more complicated clinical CT analysis tasks. Further studies are needed for this sinogram domain analysis approach to become practical for clinical applications.
Randomized controlled trial of a clinical decision support system for painful polyneuropathy
Authors: Reynolds Evan L. , Burke James F. , Banerjee Mousumi , Callaghan Brian C.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Despite the existence of guidelines, painful neuropathy is often inappropriately treated. We sought to determine the effectiveness of a clinical decision support system on guideline‐recommended medication use.

Methods

We randomized neurology providers, stratified by subspecialty, to a best practice alert (BPA) linked to a Smartset or a BPA alone when seeing patients with neuropathy. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with uncontrolled nerve pain prescribed a guideline‐recommended medication. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess effectiveness.

Results

Seventy‐five neurology providers (intervention 38, control 37) treated 2697 patients with neuropathy (intervention 1026, control 671). Providers did not acknowledge the BPA in 1928 (71.5%) visits. Only four of eight intervention arm neurologists who treated patients with uncontrolled nerve pain opened the Smartset. The intervention was not associated with guideline‐recommended medication use (odds ratio 0.52, 0.18‐1.48; intervention 52%, control 54.8%).

Discussion

Our intervention did not improve prescribing practices for painful neuropathy. Physicians typically ignored the BPAs/Smartset; therefore, future studies should mandate their use or employ alternate strategies.
Developmental delay and neuropsychiatric comorbidities associated with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy
Authors: Yaworski Amanda M. , McMillan Hugh J.
Published: December 2019

See article on pages 156–162 in this issue.
Regions of the brain activated in bladder filling vs rectal distention in healthy adults: A meta‐analysis of neuroimaging studies
Authors: Halani Priyanka Kadam , Andy Uduak U. , Rao Hengyi , Arya Lily A.
Published: December 2019

Aims

Adults with pelvic floor disorders commonly present with overlapping bladder and bowel symptoms; however, the relationship between urinary and defecatory dysfunction is not well understood. Our aim was to compare and determine if overlapping brain regions are activated during bladder filling and rectal distention in healthy adults.

Methods

We conducted separate Pubmed searches for neuroimaging studies investigating the effects of rectal distention and bladder filling on brain activation in healthy subjects. Coordinates of activated regions were extracted with cluster‐level threshold P < .05 and compared using the activation likelihood estimate approach. Results from the various studies were pooled and a contrast analysis was performed to identify any common areas of activation between bladder filling and rectal distension.

Results

We identified 96 foci of activation from 14 neuroimaging studies on bladder filling and 182 foci from 17 studies on rectal distension in healthy adults. Regions activated during bladder filling included right insula, right and left thalamus, and right periaqueductal grey. Regions activated during rectal distention included right and left insula, right and left thalamus, left postcentral gyrus, and right inferior parietal lobule. Contrast analysis revealed common activation of the right insula with both rectal distention and bladder filling.

Conclusion

Bladder filling and rectal distention activate several separate areas of the brain involved in sensory processing in healthy adults. The common activation of the insula, the region responsible for interoception, in these two conditions may offer an explanation for the coexistence of bladder and defecatory symptoms in pelvic floor disorders.
China's multinational corporations in the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining industry: An Afrocentric critique
Authors: Rapanyane Makhura B. , Shai Kgothatso B.
Published: December 2019

China's entrance in Africa in the early 2000s through the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation has apparently signalled several mutual beneficial agreements. However, there is a view that the Asian tiger's (China) arrival on the African soil was driven by its national interests. Such interests were particularly in the continent's rich mineral resources complex, which are deemed significant for its own economic boom. This observation reflects that scholars and practitioners alike have not uniformly understood China's engagement with Africa. Therefore, this paper problematizes what is often cited as the second “scramble for Africa” within the context of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It argues that Chinese mining companies' operations in DRC are no different to the early colonial masters who only came to Africa for nothing else but mineral resources in order to develop their own nations at the peril of Africa's own development. Based on Afrocentricity as the alternative theoretical lens, this paper seeks to critique the involvement of Chinese Multinational Corporations in the mineral resources complex of DRC. Methodically, this paper relies on document review and analysis in its broadest sense.
Synergistic effects of rubber band infused graphene nanocomposite on morphology, spectral, and dynamic mechanical properties
Authors: Kamaruddin Nurul Hazierah , Marlinda Ab Rahman , Said Mardhiah , Abd Wahab Fadilah , Tong Goh Boon , Hamizi Nor Aliya , Chowdhury Zaira Zaman , Sagadevan Suresh , Johan Mohd Rafie
Published: December 2019

Rubber band/graphene (RBG) nanocomposites are formed by infusing graphene nanosheet into a rubber band (RB) and subsequently evaporating the solvent. The RB was first pretreated by soaking in toluene solvent in a mild sonication for 3 h before the swollen RB was immersed in graphene dispersion for different time periods of 12 and 20 h. Employing this technique, graphene nanosheets will be attached in the RB matrix to increase the mechanical properties of these nanocomposites. The peaks shifting of RBG composites noted from Fourier‐transform infrared and Raman analyses due to the stress transfer that indicates reinforcement of the graphene nanosheet. Also, dynamic mechanical testing is most useful for studying the viscoelastic behavior of the nanocomposites, which exhibits increasing storage modulus in the following order, RB < RBG‐12h < RBG‐20h and higher shifting of tan δ peak temperature for RBG‐12h and RBG‐20h. The main factor is due to the introduction of graphene content in the RB matrix. The improvement of RB/graphene composite in terms of their mechanical, electrical, and structural properties demonstrated promising candidates for low heat build‐up materials, improved wear resistance and thermal stability, increase significant gas impermeability, and electricity conductivity.
Proteomics Analysis of Candida albicans dnm1 Haploid Mutant Unraveled the Association between Mitochondrial Fission and Antifungal Susceptibility
Authors: Truong Thuyen , Zeng Guisheng , Lim Teck Kwang , Cao Tong , Pang Li Mei , Lee Yew Mun , Lin Qingsong , Wang Yue , Seneviratne Chaminda Jayampath
Published: December 2019

Candida albicans is a major fungal pathogen, accounting for approximately 15% of healthcare infections with associated mortality as high as 40% in the case of systemic candidiasis. Antifungal agents for C. albicans infections are limited, and rising resistance is an inevitable problem. Therefore, understanding the mechanism behind antifungal responses is among the top research focuses in combating Candida infections. Herein, the recently developed C. albicans haploid model is employed to examine the association between mitochondrial fission, regulated by Dnm1, and the pathogen's response to antifungals. Proteomic analysis of dnm1Δ and its wild‐type haploid parent, GZY803, reveal changes in proteins associated with mitochondrial structures and functions, cell wall, and plasma membrane. Antifungal susceptibility testing revealed that dnm1Δ is more susceptible to SM21, a novel antifungal, than GZY803. Analyses of reactive oxygen species release, antioxidant response, lipid peroxidation, and membrane damages uncover an association between dnm1Δ and the susceptibility to SM21. Dynasore‐induced mitochondrial inhibition in SC5314 diploids corroborate the findings. Interestingly, Dynasore‐primed SC5314 cultures exhibit increased susceptibility to all antifungals tested. These data suggest an important contribution of mitochondrial fission in antifungal susceptibility of C. albicans. Hence, mitochondrial fission can be a potential target for combined therapy in anti‐C. albicans treatment.
Bilayer Graphene: From Stacking Order to Growth Mechanisms
Authors: Guan Ran , Yuan Aiheng , Luo Birong
Published: December 2019

Due to the unique bandgap tunability of bilayer graphene, the preparation of large‐sized bilayer graphene has attracted a wide range of attention. Herein, the preparation of bilayer graphene, from stacking order to growth mechanism, is reviewed, and the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of AB‐stacked bilayer graphene on copper substrate is emphasized. Various methods and growth strategies to synthesize bilayer graphene and the corresponding growth mechanisms are discussed. Mechanisms of layer‐by‐layer growth, the hydrogen passivation of graphene edges for the formation of bilayers, and carbon atoms penetrating through a copper wall for bilayer growth are included and highlighted for a better understanding of controlling bilayer graphene uniformity and forming its stacking order. Finally, the remaining challenges and the potential development of CVD‐controlled growth of bilayer graphene are outlined.
A review and meta‐analysis of the epidemiology and clinical presentation of coxsackievirus A6 causing hand‐foot‐mouth disease in China and global implications
Authors: Zhao Tian‐Shuo , Du Juan , Sun Da‐Peng , Zhu Quan‐Rong , Chen Lin‐Yi , Ye Chen , Wang Shuai , Liu Ya‐Qiong , Cui Fuqiang , Lu Qing‐Bin
Published: December 2019

Coxsackievirus A6 (CV‐A6) has been associated with increasingly occurred sporadic hand‐foot‐mouth disease (HFMD) cases and outbreak events in many countries. In order to understand epidemiological characteristics of CV‐A6, we collected the information describing HFMD caused by CV‐A6 to describe the detection rate, severe rate and onychomadesis rate, which is defined as one or more nails defluvium, caused by CV‐A6 from 2007 to 2017. The results showed that there was an outbreak of CV‐A6 every other year, and overall trend of the epidemic of CA6‐associated HFMD was increasing in China. The detection rate of CV‐A6 in other countries was 32.0% (95% CI: 25.0%~40.0%) before 2013 and 28.0% (95% CI: 20.0%~36.0%) after 2013, respectively. Although the severe rate of HFMD caused by CV‐A6 was low (0.10%, 95% CI: 0.01%~0.20%), CV‐A6 can cause a high incidence of onychomadesis (28.0%, 95%CI: 21.9%‐34.3%). Thus, it would be worthwhile to research and develop an effective multivalent vaccine for CV‐A6 to achieve a more powerful prevention of HMFD.
“We're taking their brilliant minds”: Science teacher expertize, meta‐discourse, and the challenges of teacher–scientist collaboration
Authors: Shanahan Marie‐Claire , Bechtel Robert
Published: December 2019

Programs that bring teachers and scientists together have continued to achieve attention as important potential contributions to science education. Often, however, those programs place teachers in the position of learner or apprentice to the scientists. This study examines a teacher–scientist partnership program (two project sites, two teachers and one scientist at each) that explicitly sought to challenge that model, bringing science teachers into science labs to share their expertize in a collaborative project. Using a framework that probes both the actors’ and analysts’ perspectives on expertize, this study examines whether the promise of the program's goal for mutual learning through collaboration can be met. Analysis of interviews and collaborative products focused on evidence of contributory and interactional expertize to understand if the project was able to bring together a group that was likely to be able to collaborate successfully. Metadiscourse was then probed to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which they spoke of the expertize of their collaborators. Findings suggest that creating collaborative teams with ideal expertize matches is challenging and that collaborative efforts are complicated by the historic status of scientific and teaching expertizes especially in relation to outreach or knowledge translation projects.
The epsilon expansion meets semiclassics
Authors: Badel Gil , Cuomo Gabriel , Monin Alexander , Rattazzi Riccardo
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study the scaling dimension$$ {\Delta}_{\phi^n} $$Δϕnof the operator 𝜙nwhere 𝜙 is the fundamental complex field of the U(1) model at the Wilson-Fisher fixed point ind= 4− ε. Even for a perturbatively small fixed point couplingλ∗, standard perturbation theory breaks down for sufficiently largeλ∗n. Treatingλ∗nas fixed for smallλ∗we show that$$ {\Delta}_{\phi^n} $$Δϕncan be successfully computed through a semiclassical expansion around a non-trivial trajectory, resulting in$$ {\Delta}_{\phi^n}=\frac{1}{\lambda_{\ast }}{\Delta}_{-1}\left({\lambda}_{\ast }n\right)+{\Delta}_0\left({\lambda}_{\ast }n\right)+{\lambda}_{\ast }{\Delta}_1\left({\lambda}_{\ast }n\right)+\dots $$Δϕn=1λ∗Δ−1λ∗n+Δ0λ∗n+λ∗Δ1λ∗n+…

We explicitly compute the first two orders in the expansion, ∆−1(λ∗n) and ∆0(λ∗n). The result, when expanded at smallλ∗n, perfectly agrees with all available diagrammatic com- putations. The asymptotic at largeλ∗nreproduces instead the systematic large charge expansion, recently derived in CFT. Comparison with Monte Carlo simulations ind= 3 is compatible with the obvious limitations of takingε= 1, but encouraging.
Ricci-Based Gravity theories and their impact on Maxwell and nonlinear electromagnetic models
Authors: Delhom Adria , Olmo Gonzalo J. , Orazi Emanuele
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We extend the correspondence between metric-affine Ricci-Based Gravity the- ories and General Relativity (GR) to the case in which the matter sector is represented by linear and nonlinear electromagnetic fields. This complements previous studies focused on fluids and scalar fields. We establish the general algorithm that relates the matter fields in the GR and RBG frames and consider some applications. In particular, we find that the so-called Eddington-inspired Born-Infeld gravity theory coupled to Maxwell electromag- netism is in direct correspondence with GR coupled to Born-Infeld electromagnetism. We comment on the potential phenomenological implications of this relation.
The 4-CB algebra and solvable lattice models
Authors: Belavin Vladimir , Gepner Doron , Li Jian-Rong , Tessler Ran
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study the algebras underlying solvable lattice models of the type fusion interaction round the face (IRF). We propose that the algebras are universal, depending only on the number of blocks, which is the degree of polynomial equation obeyed by the Boltzmann weights. Using the Yang-Baxter equation and the ansatz for the Baxterization of the models, we show that the three blocks models obey a version of Birman-Murakami­Wenzl (BMW) algebra. For four blocks, we conjecture that the algebra, which is termed 4-CB (Conformal Braiding) algebra, is the BMW algebra with a different skein relation, along with one additional relation, and we provide evidence for this conjecture. We connect these algebras to knot theory by conjecturing new link invariants. The link invariants, in the case of four blocks, depend on three arbitrary parameters. We check our result for G2 model with the seven dimensional representation and for SU(2) with the isospin 3/2 representation, which are both four blocks theories.
Domain walls and deconfinement: a semiclassical picture of discrete anomaly inflow
Authors: Cox Andrew A. , Poppitz Erich , Wong Samuel S.Y.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study the physics of quark deconfinement on domain walls in four-di- mensional supersymmetric SU(N) Yang-Mills theory, compactified on a small circle with supersymmetric boundary conditions. We numerically examine the properties of BPS domain walls connecting vacua k units apart. We also determine their electric fluxes and use the results to show that Wilson loops of any nonzero N -ality exhibit perimeter law on all k-walls. Our results confirm and extend, to all N and k, the validity of the semiclassical picture of deconfinement of Anber, Sulejmanpasic and one of us (EP), arXiv:1501.06773, providing a microscopic explanation of mixed 0-form/1-form anomaly inflow.
Fakeons, unitarity, massive gravitons, and the cosmological constant
Authors: Anselmi Damiano
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We give a simple proof of perturbative unitarity in gauge theories and quantum gravity using a special gauge that allows us to separate the physical poles of the free propagators, which are quantized by means of the Feynman prescription, from the poles that belong to the gauge-trivial sector, which are quantized by means of the fakeon prescription. The proof applies to renormalizable theories, including the ultraviolet complete theory of quantum gravity with fakeons formulated recently, as well as low-energy (nonrenormalizable) theories. We clarify a number of subtleties related to the study of scattering processes in the presence of a cosmological constant Λ. The scattering ampli- tudes, defined by expanding the metric around flat space, obey the optical theorem up to corrections due to Λ, which are negligible for all practical purposes. Problems of interpretation would arise if such corrections became important. In passing, we obtain local, unitary (and “almost” renormalizable) theories of massive gravitons and gauge fields, which violate gauge invariance and general covariance explicitly.
Chiral soliton lattice in QCD-like theories
Authors: Brauner Tomáš , Filios Georgios , Kolešová Helena
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Recently, it has been shown that the ground state of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) in sufficiently strong magnetic fields and at moderate baryon number chemical po- tential carries a crystalline condensate of neutral pions: the chiral soliton lattice (CSL) [1]. While the result was obtained in a model-independent manner using effective field the- ory techniques, its realization from first principles using lattice Monte Carlo simulation is hampered by the infamous sign problem. Here we show that CSL, or a similar inhomoge- neous phase, also appears in the phase diagram of a class of vector-like gauge theories that do not suffer from the sign problem even in the presence of a baryon chemical potential and external magnetic field. We also show that the onset of nonuniform order manifests itself already in the adjacent homogeneous Bose-Einstein-condensation phase through a characteristic roton-like minimum in the dispersion relation of the lowest-lying quasipar- ticle mode. Last but not least, our work gives a class of explicit counterexamples to the long-standing conjecture that positivity of the determinant of the Dirac operator (that is, absence of the sign problem) in a vector-like gauge theory precludes spontaneous breaking of translational invariance, and thus implies the absence of inhomogeneous phases in the phase diagram of the theory.
The holographic QCD axion
Authors: Bigazzi Francesco , Caddeo Alessio , Cotrone Aldo L. , Di Vecchia Paolo , Marzolla Andrea
Published: December 2019

Abstract

A holographic model of QCD axion is presented. It describes a composite axion in the KSVZ class. Having a gravity dual, based on the Witten-Sakai-Sugimoto model, it is calculable in the strongly coupled regime. Its basic properties are derived, including the low energy Lagrangian, from which the axion couplings to nucleons can be derived. Basic features in the deconfined phase are studied as well. In particular, the temperature dependence of the axion mass is extracted from the topological susceptibility. As an aside, the topological susceptibility of strongly coupled

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 SYM at finite temperature is derived for the first time.
Synthesis from hyperproperties
Authors: Finkbeiner Bernd , Hahn Christopher , Lukert Philip , Stenger Marvin , Tentrup Leander
Published: December 2019

We study the reactive synthesis problem for hyperproperties given as formulas of the temporal logic HyperLTL. Hyperproperties generalize trace properties, i.e., sets of traces, to sets of sets of traces. Typical examples are information-flow policies like noninterference, which stipulate that no sensitive data must leak into the public domain. Such properties cannot be expressed in standard linear or branching-time temporal logics like LTL, CTL, or $$\hbox {CTL}^*$$CTL∗. Furthermore, HyperLTL subsumes many classical extensions of the LTL realizability problem, including realizability under incomplete information, distributed synthesis, and fault-tolerant synthesis. We show that, while the synthesis problem is undecidable for full HyperLTL, it remains decidable for the $$\exists ^*$$∃∗, $$\exists ^*\forall ^1$$∃∗∀1, and the $${{ linear }}\;\forall ^*$$linear∀∗ fragments. Beyond these fragments, the synthesis problem immediately becomes undecidable. For universal HyperLTL, we present a semi-decision procedure that constructs implementations and counterexamples up to a given bound. We report encouraging experimental results obtained with a prototype implementation on example specifications with hyperproperties like symmetric responses, secrecy, and information flow.
Chemoenzymatic synthesis of the pH responsive surfactant octyl β-D-glucopyranoside uronic acid
Authors: Ngo Ngoc T. N. , Grey Carl , Adlercreutz Patrick
Published: December 2019

Methodology was developed to expand the range of benign alkyl glycoside surfactants to include also anionic types. This was demonstrated possible through conversion of the glycoside to its carboxyl derivative. Specifically, octyl β-D-glucopyranoside (OG) was oxidised to the corresponding uronic acid (octyl β-D-glucopyranoside uronic acid, OG-COOH) using the catalyst system T. versicolor laccase/2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyloxy (TEMPO) and oxygen from air as oxidant. The effects of oxygen supply methodology, concentrations of laccase, TEMPO and OG as well as reaction temperature were evaluated. At 10 mM substrate concentration, the substrate was almost quantitatively converted into product, and even at a substrate concentration of 60 mM, 85% conversion was reached within 24 h. The surfactant properties of OG-COOH were markedly dependent on pH. Foaming was only observed at low pH, while no foam was formed at pH values above 5.0. Thus, OG-COOH can be an attractive low-foaming surfactant, for example for cleaning applications and emulsification, in a wide pH range (pH 1.5–10.0).
Clinical quantification of the integrin αvβ6 by [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 positron emission tomography in healthy and fibrotic human lung (PETAL Study)
Authors: Lukey Pauline T. , Coello Christopher , Gunn Roger , Parker Christine , Wilson Frederick J. , Saleem Azeem , Garman Nadia , Costa Maria , Kendrick Stuart , Onega Mayca , Kang’ombe Arthur R. , Listanco Allan , Davies James , Ramada-Magalhaes Joaquim , Moz Sara , Fahy William A. , Maher Toby M. , Jenkins Gisli , Passchier Jan , Marshall Richard P.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The RGD-integrin, αvβ6, plays a role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis through activation of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). This study sought to quantify expression of αvβ6 in the lungs of healthy humans and subjects with pulmonary fibrosis using the αvβ6-selective [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 PET ligand.

Methods

[18F]FB-A20FMDV2 PET/CT scans were performed in healthy subjects and those with fibrotic lung disease. Standard uptake values (SUV) and volume of distribution (VT) were used to quantify αvβ6 expression. In subjects with fibrotic lung disease, qualitative assessment of the relationship between αvβ6 expression and the distribution of fibrosis on high resolution computed tomography was conducted.

Results

A total of 15 participants (6 healthy, 7 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and 2 with connective tissue disease (CTD) associated PF) were enrolled.VTand SUV of [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 were increased in the lungs of subjects with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) compared with healthy subjects. Geometric meanVT(95% CI) was 0.88 (0.60, 1.29) mL/cm3for healthy subjects, and 1.40 (1.22, 1.61) mL/cm3for subjects with IPF; and SUV was 0.54 (0.36, 0.81) g/mL for healthy subjects and 1.03 (0.86, 1.22) g/mL for subjects with IPF. The IPF/healthyVTratio (geometric mean, (95% CI of ratio)) was 1.59 (1.09, 2.32) (probability ratio > 1 = 0.988)) and the SUV ratio was 1.91 (1.27, 2.87) (probability ratio > 1 = 0.996). Increased uptake of [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 in PF was predominantly confined to fibrotic areas. [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 measurements were reproducible at an interval of 2 weeks. [18F]FB-A20FMDV2 was safe and well tolerated.

Conclusions

Lung uptake of [18F]FB-A20FMDV2, a measure of expression of the integrin αvβ6, was markedly increased in subjects with PF compared with healthy subjects.
Endometriosis Involving the Diaphragm: A Patient‐Tailored Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment
Authors: Viti Andrea , Bertoglio Pietro , Roviglione Giovanni , Clarizia Roberto , Ruffo Giacomo , Ceccaroni Marcello , Terzi Alberto C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Diaphragmatic endometriosis is a rare presentation of endometriosis and no standardized technique for surgical treatment is available so far. We aim to verify and describe feasibility, safety and post‐operative outcomes of patients affected by diaphragmatic endometriosis treated with a minimally invasive video‐assisted thoracic approach.

Methods

We prospectively collected data of all patients we operated on at our Institution for diaphragmatic endometriosis between 2015 and 2019. We included all patients with a previous histological diagnosis of pelvic or abdominal endometriosis who have complained chronic thoracic pain or who had two or more episodes of pneumothorax with or without radiological evidence of pleural and diaphragmatic endometriosis.

Results

During the study period, we operated on 22 patients, 20 on the right side, one on the left side and one bilaterally. Indication for surgery was based on symptoms and/or radiological evidence of diaphragmatic disease. Diaphragm was resected and reconstructed according to intraoperative findings; in 11 cases, an additional mesh was used to reinforce the suture. According to our experience with VATS, we shift from an open approach to a uniportal VATS technique.

Conclusions

Surgery for diaphragmatic endometriosis can be safely performed using a minimally invasive VATS approach, which is feasible and safe even when more extensive diaphragmatic resections are required, and it allows a lower post‐operative pain compared to the open approach. Moreover, uniportal VATS approach guarantees similar outcomes with better cosmetic results.
Systematic review on the value of end-of-treatment FDG-PET in improving overall survival of lymphoma patients
Authors: Adams Hugo J.A. , Kwee Thomas C.
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to systematically review the value of end-of-treatment 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) in improving overall survival (OS) of lymphoma patients. Medline was systematically searched for (1) randomized trials comparing the OS of patients who underwent end-of-treatment FDG-PET to those without and FDG-PET-based end-of-treatment evaluation and for (2) non-randomized studies comparing the OS of patients who underwent end-of-treatment FDG-PET to a (historical) cohort of patients without an FDG-PET-based end-of-treatment evaluation. The Medline search revealed 6284 articles. However, none of these reported data on the value of end-of-treatment FDG-PET in improving OS of lymphoma patients. In conclusion, the present systematic review reveals that there is currently no study at all that evaluates the value of end-of-treatment FDG-PET in improving OS of lymphoma patients. As a result, it remains unknown whether end-of-treatment FDG-PET increases OS and in which lymphoma subtype these examinations are of particular value. Future studies are required to demonstrate its value in this setting before it can be recommended as an evidence-based diagnostic tool by guidelines on the use of imaging in lymphoma.
Ejaculatory disorders after prostatic artery embolization: a reassessment of two prospective clinical trials
Authors: Müllhaupt Gautier , Hechelhammer Lukas , Diener Pierre-André , Engeler Daniel S. , Güsewell Sabine , Schmid Hans-Peter , Mordasini Livio , Abt Dominik
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This study aims to specify and explain the previous findings of unexpectedly high rates of ejaculatory disorders, i.e. 56%, found after prostatic artery embolization (PAE) in a randomized controlled trial comparing safety and efficacy of PAE and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Patients and methods

Case report forms of the randomized controlled trial were analyzed to specify the grade of postoperative ejaculatory dysfunction 3 months postoperatively.

In addition, study participants with assessable ejaculation were asked to complete the four-item Male Sexual Health Questionnaire-Ejaculation Dysfunction Short Form (MSHQ-EjD) referring to their ejaculatory function at present, as well as before treatment and 3 months after. Potential explanations for ejaculatory disorders after PAE were derived from histological examination of five radical prostatectomy specimens of patients that underwent PAE 6 weeks before radical prostatectomy within a proof-of-concept trial at the study site, St. Gallen Cantonal Hospital. An experienced uropathologist systematically examined the whole-gland embedded tissue with focus on structures that are involved into ejaculation.

Results

While patients after TURP predominantly suffered from anejaculation (52%), diminished ejaculation was found more often after PAE (40%). Significantly higher MSHQ-EjD scores were found 3 months after PAE and at a median follow-up of 31 months.

Histological examination showed marked changes of structures involved into ejaculation (e.g., prostatic glands, seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts) after PAE.

Conclusion

Although anejaculation occurs less frequently after PAE (16%) compared to TURP (52%), patients have to be informed about the relevant risk of ejaculatory disorders, especially diminished ejaculation.
The effect of different imaging techniques for the visualisation of evidence in court on jury comprehension
Authors: Errickson D. , Fawcett H. , Thompson T. J. U. , Campbell A.
Published: December 2019

Evidence presented within a courtroom should be clear so that the members of the jury can understand it. The presentation of distressing images, such as human remains, can have a negative effect on the jury since photographic images may evoke emotional responses. Therefore, it is important to understand how other visual mediums may improve comprehension, bias, or distress individuals. For this study, 91 individuals were randomly assigned one of three visual evidence formats in a mock courtroom exercise. These included photographs, 3D visualisations, or a 3D-printed model. The results show that the use of 3D imaging improves the juror’s understanding of technical language used within a courtroom, which in turn better informs the juror’s in their decision-making.
High-intensity exercise in the evening does not disrupt sleep in endurance runners
Authors: Thomas Craig , Jones Helen , Whitworth-Turner Craig , Louis Julien
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To investigate the effect of early evening exercise training at different intensities on nocturnal sleep and cardiac autonomic activity in endurance-trained runners.

Methods

Eight runners completed three experimental trials in a randomised, counterbalanced order. In the early evening (end of exercise 3.5 h before bedtime), participants performed either: (i) a 1 h high-intensity interval running session (HIGH, 6 × 5 min at 90% VO2peakinterspersed with 5 min recovery); (ii) a 1 h low-intensity running session (LOW, 60 min at 45% VO2peak) or (iii) no exercise (CON). Subsequent nocturnal sleep was assessed using polysomnography, wristwatch actigraphy, and subjective sleep quality. A two-lead electrocardiogram recorded nocturnal cardiac autonomic activity.

Results

Total sleep time increased after HIGH (477.4 ± 17.7 min,p = 0.022) and LOW (479.6 ± 15.6 min,p = 0.006) compared with CON (462.9 ± 19.0 min). Time awake was lower after HIGH (31.8 ± 18.5 min,p = 0.047) and LOW (30.4 ± 15.7 min,p = 0.008) compared with CON (46.6 ± 20.0 min). There were no differences between conditions for actigraphy and subjective sleep quality (p > 0.05). Nocturnal heart rate variability was not different between conditions, but average nocturnal heart rate increased after HIGH (50 ± 5 beats min−1) compared with LOW (47 ± 5 beats min−1,p = 0.02) and CON (47 ± 5 beats min−1,p = 0.028).

Conclusion

When performed in the early evening, high-intensity exercise does not disrupt and may even improve subsequent nocturnal sleep in endurance-trained runners, despite increased cardiac autonomic activity. Additionally, low-intensity exercise induced positive changes in sleep behaviour that are comparable to those obtained following high-intensity exercise.
Semi-automation of process analytics reduces operator effect
Authors: Christler A. , Felföldi E. , Mosor M. , Sauer D. , Walch N. , Dürauer A. , Jungbauer A.
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to semi-automate process analytics for the quantification of common impurities in downstream processing such as host cell DNA, host cell proteins and endotoxins using a commercial liquid handling station. By semi-automation, the work load to fully analyze the elution peak of a purification run was reduced by at least 2.41 h. The relative standard deviation of results among different operators over a time span of up to 6 months was at the best reduced by half, e.g. from 13.7 to 7.1% in dsDNA analysis. Automation did not improve the reproducibility of results produced by one operator but released time for data evaluation and interpretation or planning of experiments. Overall, semi-automation of process analytics reduced operator-specific influence on test results. Such robust and reproducible analytics is fundamental to establish process analytical technology and get downstream processing ready for Quality by Design approaches.
A combined-method approach to trace submarine groundwater discharge from a coastal karst aquifer in Ireland
Authors: Schuler Philip , Stoeckl L. , Schnegg P.-A. , Bunce C. , Gill L.
Published: December 2019

Knowledge about the hydraulic connections between submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) and its terrestrial coastal catchment is relevant with regard to the management of marine and coastal waters in karst areas. This study applies different methods and monitoring approaches to trace SGD between the Burren Limestone Plateau and Galway Bay in western Ireland, via an excavated sinkhole shaft and deep conduit. Areas of potential SGD were first delineated based on sea surface temperature anomalies using Landsat satellite images. Two fluorescent dyes and solid wood chips were then used as tracers. Solid wood chips were tested as potential means to circumvent the problem of high dispersion in the sea, impacting on the fluorescent dyes to yield readings below the detection limits. Sampling was conducted at 10 different terrestrial locations and in the sea at Galway Bay. Offshore sampling was conducted in transects over a period of four successive days onboard of a vessel using an automated field fluorometer and a conductivity-temperature-depth sensor. No wood chips were recovered in the sea but both fluorescent dyes were successfully sampled. The estimated travel times are in the order of 100 to 354 m/h, and localised tracer readings correlate well in space and time with low conductivity readings. By confirming hydraulic connections between the two karst features and Galway Bay, the study substantiates the hypothesised importance of Variscan veins with regard to regional groundwater flow in the region.
Five-year Pan-European, longitudinal surveillance of Clostridium difficile ribotype prevalence and antimicrobial resistance: the extended ClosER study
Authors:   the Pan-European Longitudinal Surveillance of Antibiotic Resistance among Prevalent Clostridium difficile Ribotypes’ Study Group, Freeman Jane , Vernon Jonathan , Pilling Sally , Morris Kirsti , Nicolson Scott , Shearman Sharie , Clark Emma , Palacios-Fabrega Jose Alejandro , Wilcox Mark
Published: December 2019

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has been primarily treated with metronidazole or vancomycin. High recurrence rates, the emergence of epidemic PCR ribotypes (RTs) and the introduction of fidaxomicin in Europe in 2011 necessitate surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and CDI epidemiology. The ClosER study monitored antimicrobial susceptibility and geographical distribution of C. difficile RTs pre- and post-fidaxomicin introduction. From 2011 to 2016, 28 European countries submitted isolates or faecal samples for determination of PCR ribotype, toxin status and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of metronidazole, vancomycin, rifampicin, fidaxomicin, moxifloxacin, clindamycin, imipenem, chloramphenicol and tigecycline. RT diversity scores for each country were calculated and mean MIC results used to generate cumulative resistant scores (CRSs) for each isolate and country. From 40 sites, 3499 isolates were analysed, of which 95% (3338/3499) were toxin positive. The most common of the 264 RTs isolated was RT027 (mean prevalence 11.4%); however, RT prevalence varied greatly between countries and between years. The fidaxomicin geometric mean MIC for years 1–5 was 0.04 mg/L; only one fidaxomicin-resistant isolate (RT344) was submitted (MIC ≥ 4 mg/L). Metronidazole and vancomycin geometric mean MICs were 0.46 mg/L and 0.70 mg/L, respectively. Of prevalent RTs, RT027, RT017 and RT012 demonstrated resistance or reduced susceptibility to multiple antimicrobials. RT diversity was inversely correlated with mean CRS for individual countries (Pearson coefficient r = − 0.57). Overall, C. difficile RT prevalence remained stable in 2011–2016. Fidaxomicin susceptibility, including in RT027, was maintained post-introduction. Reduced ribotype diversity in individual countries was associated with increased antimicrobial resistance.
Unexpected microphase transitions in flow towards nematic order of cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Kádár Roland , Fazilati Mina , Nypelö Tiina
Published: December 2019

Organization of nanoparticles is essential in order to control their light-matter interactions. We present cellulose nanocrystal suspension organization in flow towards a unidirectional state. Visualization of evolving polarization patterns of the cellulose nanocrystal suspensions is combined with steady and oscillatory shear rheology. Elucidation of the chiral nematic mesophase in a continuous process towards unidirectional order enables control of alignment in a suspension precursor for structural films and reveals thus far in situ unrevealed transition states that were not detectable by rheology alone. The coupled analytics enabled the suspensions of interest to be divided into rheological gels and rheological liquid crystal fluids with detailed information on the microtransition phases. Both populations experienced submicron organization and reached macro-scale homogeneity with unidirectional ordering in continued shear. We quantify the time, shear rate, and recovery time after shear to design an optimizing formation process for controlled wet structures as precursors for dry products.

Graphic abstract