bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraspecific variation in the relationship between weather and masting behavior in valley oak, Quercus lobata
Authors: Koenig Walter D. , Knops Johannes M.H. , Carmen William J.
Published: June 2020

Masting behavior — variable and synchronized reproduction by a population of plants — has long been recognized as correlating with weather. How and why weather conditions influence seed production is, however, poorly understood. We investigated the relationships between acorn production and both local weather and long-term climate in 10 populations across the geographic range of the valley oak (Quercus lobata Née), a California endemic that matures acorns in a single season. Acorn production was larger following a cold spring in the prior year and dry conditions in the winter and spring immediately preceding acorn maturation; similar patterns were also found, with minor differences, at all 10 individual sites. The strength of the relationships varied geographically in the case of the correlation between winter rainfall and annual acorn production, which was stronger (more negative) at wetter sites. Thus, in contrast to a recent study in Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl., weather had generally similar effects on acorn production throughout the range of Q. lobata. Similar to Q. petraea, however, the strength of the relationship between site-level annual acorn production and one of the weather factors affecting acorn production (winter rainfall in the case of Q. lobata) varied geographically in ways that may be related to differences among sites in the degree of pollen limitation. Understanding the mechanisms by which weather affects seed production is challenging but critical if we are to understand how climate change will affect masting behavior in the future.
Beyond the Standard Model physics at CLIC
Authors: Franceschini Roberto
Published: June 2020

A summary of the recent results from CERN Yellow Report on the CLIC potential for new physics is presented. Greater emphasis is put on the direct search for new physics scenarios motivated by the open issues of the Standard Model as well as on interpretations of Standard Model measurements as probes of new physics in the context of effective field theory extensions of the Standard Model.
Research on the mechanism of drag reduction by wall vibration through Lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Zhao Jia Zhen , Pan Guang , Gao Shan
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the hydrodynamics of streamwise and normal vibration wall are studied using the Lattice Boltzmann method. Firstly, based on the two-dimensional flow geometry model, which is made up of flat wall and water fluid, the characters of the fluid near the streamwise and normal vibration wall are simulated under the condition of mutative vibration parameters. By rigorous data treating, some notable results such as the velocity distribution, density distribution curves of the flow field, and the frictional force of the solid-liquid interface are gained. Secondly, the reason of the change of frictional resistance at the solid-liquid interface by wall vibration are studied. And the results are evidence that well drag reduction effect can be obtained by applying appropriate flow vibration parameters to the solid wall. In addition, the reduction in fluid density near the solid-liquid wall is another significant cause behind the frictional drag decrease.
Spectral analysis for weighted iterated pentagonal graphs and its applications
Authors: Liu Qun
Published: June 2020

Deterministic weighted networks have been widely used to model real-world complex systems. In this paper, we study the weighted iterated pentagonal networks. From the construction of the network, we derive recursive relations of all eigenvalues and their multiplicities of its normalized Laplacian matrix from the two successive generations of the weighted iterated pentagonal networks. As applications of spectra of the normalized Laplacian matrix, we study the Kemeny’s constant, the multiplicative degree-Kirchhoff index, and the number of weighted spanning trees and derive their exact closed-form expressions for the weighted iterated pentagonal networks.
The influence of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles on the structure, optical and dielectric properties of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Authors: Ramazanov M. A. , Rahimli A. M. , Hajiyeva F. V.
Published: June 2020

The tendency to improve the properties of insulating materials by incorporating inorganic nanoparticles has become necessary in order to design new insulation systems. In this study, PVC/TiO2-based nanocomposites with different loadings (3, 5 and 10 wt.%) of TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by the solution mixing method. The morphology of the prepared nanocomposites was studied by Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Experimentally, it was found that as the concentration increases, the size of the surface structural elements and particle size increases. Photoluminescence (PL) analysis of samples shows improvement compared to the pristine polymer. Furthermore, PL intensity for nanocomposites increases depending on the concentration and saturation occurs at a certain amount of titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The increase in luminescence intensity till a certain nanoparticle content is due to the growth of the luminescent surface area. Further saturation is explained by the increase in particle size with no increase or a slight reduction in surface area. Dielectric properties of nanocomposites were studied. It was found that dielectric permittivity of the materials increases as the nanoparticle volume content increases and it reaches at its highest value for the nanocomposites with 3% nanoparticle content. The optical properties of the polymer and nanocomposite films were studied in the region 200 nm to 600 nm. It was found that the PVC/TiO2 nanocomposites showed enhancement in the absorbance intensities which was more significant for the nanocomposites with higher nanoparticle content compared to the pristine polymer. Furthermore, absorption spectra were used to calculate the optical bandgap of the prepared nanocomposite films and redshift observed in the calculated values of bandgap for nanocomposites. Consequently, it was proved that by incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles into the polymer matrix, the spectral region of the samples can be expanded resulting in broadened application of such systems in various fields of science and technology.
Does gravitational radiation impact the stellar habitable zone?
Authors: Lima J. A. S. , Santos R. C. , Cunha J. V. , Silva F. E. , Pellicer C. E.
Published: June 2020

Substellar objects of ultrashort periods (less than 50 min) orbiting central stars and many ultracompact star binary systems of even smaller periods (less than 10 min) have been optically detected in the last few years. Their gravitational luminosities can be of the same order or even much greater than their electromagnetic counterparts thereby also comprising a special class of targets for the Large Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). In this paper, it is argued that the “gravitational illumination” of such systems may alter significantly the standard electromagnetic stellar habitable zone as long as a fraction of its gravitational energy is converted into heat. An analytical formula for the habitable zone is derived by assuming that the planet is simultaneously irradiated by electromagnetic and gravitational luminosities. The effect is quantified and some examples are discussed based on the available observations.
Perspectives of perihelion precession in torsion modified gravity
Authors: Nitish R. , Gupta Rohit K. , Kar Supriya
Published: June 2020

Killing symmetries are revisited in [Formula: see text] bulk geometric torsion (GT) perturbation theory to investigate the perihelion precession. Computation reveals a nonperturbative (NP) modification to the precession known in General Relativity (GR). Remarkably the analysis reassures our proposed holographic correspondence between a perturbative GT in bulk and a boundary GR coupled to [Formula: see text]. In fact, the topological correction is sourced by a non-Newtonian potential in GR and we identify it with an “electro-gravito” (EG) dipole. Interestingly, the dipole correction is shown to possess its origin in a [Formula: see text]-form underlying a propagating GT and leads to a NP gravity in [Formula: see text].
On ordered k-paths and rims for certain families of Kazhdan–Lusztig cells of Sn
Authors: McDonough T. P. , Pallikaros C. A.
Published: June 2020

For a composition [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] we consider the Kazhdan–Lusztig cell in the symmetric group [Formula: see text] containing the longest element of the standard parabolic subgroup of [Formula: see text] associated to [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we extend some of the ideas and results in [Beiträge zur Algebra und Geometrie, 59(3) (2018) 523–547]. In particular, by introducing the notion of an ordered [Formula: see text]-path, we are able to obtain alternative explicit descriptions for some additional families of cells associated to compositions. This is achieved by first determining the rim of the cell, from which reduced forms for all the elements of the cell are easily obtained.
Group generated by total sextactic points of Kuribayashi quartic curve
Authors: Kamel Alwaleed
Published: June 2020

A Kuribayashi quartic curve [Formula: see text] carries total sextactic points if and only if [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is a zero of [Formula: see text], cf. [1] . In [2] , the authors describe the subgroup generated by the total sextactic points in the Jacobian of a Kuribayashi quartic curve when [Formula: see text] is a zero of [Formula: see text] In this paper, we describe this group when [Formula: see text]
Constitutive Modeling of Porous Shape Memory Alloys Using Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman Model Under Isothermal Conditions
Authors: Zhu Xiang , Chu Liangliang , Dui Guansuo
Published: June 2020

Based on the Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) model, a constitutive relationship considering both the effects of strain hardening and hydrostatic stress for porous shape memory alloys (SMAs) is proposed. To capture the relationship between microscopic and mesoscopic behaviors, a representative volume element (RVE) containing an array of spherical voids is presented. In this paper, an approximate solution including strain hardening exponent [Formula: see text] is deduced by considering the porous SMA as a two phase composite with the SMA matrix and the second phase representing voids. The model parameters, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], accounting for interactions between voids are investigated to take into account their influences on strain hardening, critical phase transformation stress and yield surface. In addition, the evolution equations of phase transformation are derived and then applied to the simulation of porous Ni–Ti SMAs with a porosity of 13%. Using the calibrated GTN model parameters, the critical phase transformation stress closer to experimental data is obtained. The predictions of stress–strain curve by the proposed constitutive model are found to be in excellent agreement with published experimental data and finite element results. The results prove that the model is capable of reproducing the features of porous SMAs such as superelasticity, tensile-compressive asymmetry and internal loops under uniaxial even combined loading conditions. A conclusion is drawn that the present constitutive relationship is powerful and useful for the analysis of porous SMAs.
On Effective Mechanical Properties of Two-Dimensional Porous Materials
Authors: Guo Zaoyang , Wang Lei , Guo Xiaojun , Chen Yang , Dong Leiting
Published: June 2020

Two-dimensional (2D) representative volume element (RVE) has been widely used to simulate the effective behaviors of the materials with aligned pores. In this paper, the anisotropy indexes are defined for the 2D RVE model to quantitatively evaluate the extent of anisotropy of the model. A normalized procedure is then proposed to compute the effective moduli of the RVE models, which can further minimize the influence of anisotropy of the RVE models. The effective Poisson’s ratio of the porous materials is challengeable to be estimated well, and few analytical models can give good predictions. The theoretical models are proposed to approach the effective Young’s modulus and the effective Poisson’s ratio of the 2D porous materials covering the full range of porosity. It is numerically validated that the theoretical models give accurate predictions for the effective Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio of the 2D porous materials.
Highly-efficient quantitative fluorescence resonance energy transfer measurements based on deep learning
Authors: Ge Lin , Liu Fei , Luo Jianwen
Published: June 2020

Intensity-based quantitative fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a technique to measure the distance of molecules in scale of a few nanometers which is far beyond optical diffraction limit. This widely used technique needs complicated experimental process and manual image analyses to obtain precise results, which take a long time and restrict the application of quantitative FRET especially in living cells. In this paper, a simplified and automatic quantitative FRET (saqFRET) method with high efficiency is presented. In saqFRET, photoactivatable acceptor PA-mCherry and optimized excitation wavelength of donor enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) are used to simplify FRET crosstalk elimination. Traditional manual image analyses are time consuming when the dataset is large. The proposed automatic image analyses based on deep learning can analyze 100 samples within 30[Formula: see text]s and demonstrate the same precision as manual image analyses.
Nutrition Regulates Innate Immunity in Health and Disease
Authors: Nobs Samuel Philip , Zmora Niv , Elinav Eran
Published: June 2020

Nutrient content and nutrient timing are considered key regulators of human health and a variety of diseases and involve complex interactions with the mucosal immune system. In particular, the innate immune system is emerging as an important signaling hub that modulates the response to nutritional signals, in part via signaling through the gut microbiota. In this review we elucidate emerging evidence that interactions between innate immunity and diet affect human metabolic health and disease, including cardiometabolic disorders, allergic diseases, autoimmune disorders, infections, and cancers. Furthermore, we discuss the potential modulatory effects of the gut microbiota on interactions between the immune system and nutrition in health and disease, namely how it relays nutritional signals to the innate immune system under specific physiological contexts. Finally, we identify key open questions and challenges to comprehensively understanding the intersection between nutrition and innate immunity and how potential nutritional, immune, and microbial therapeutics may be developed into promising future avenues of precision treatment.
A Liquid Electrolyte-Based Lithium-Ion Battery Cell Design for Operando Neutron Depth Profiling
Authors: Linsenmann Fabian , Trunk Markus , Rapp Philip , Werner Lukas , Gernhäuser Roman , Gilles Ralph , Märkisch Bastian , Révay Zsolt , Gasteiger Hubert A.
Published: June 2020

In this study, we present a novel cell design for liquid electrolyte-based lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) to detect the lithium distribution across an electrode by neutron depth profiling (NDP). This newly developed cell design allows to obtain electrochemical data comparable to a standard laboratory cell making use of 500 μm diameter holes to assure a homogeneous compression over the entire electrode area. We present operando NDP data recorded during the formation of a porous graphite electrode where we can both distinguish between irreversibly bound lithium within the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and reversibly intercalated lithium into graphite, and quantify the lithium concentration profile across the electrode. The amount of lithium reversibly intercalated into the graphite electrode (≈LiC6), based on one lithium per electron of charge (1 Li/e−), was found to corroborate well with the lithium amount quantified using operando NDP. However, comparing the irreversible capacity with the amount of lithium detected as SEI within the graphite anode, a significantly smaller Li/e− ratio was observed. Furthermore, we confirm that small amounts of lithium alloy into the copper current collector, using NDP and complementary ex situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Local organization of spatial frequency tuning dynamics in the cat visual areas 17 and 18
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Ohzawa Izumi
Published: June 2020

In cat area 17/18, we found that a local pool of neurons with similar spatial frequency (SF) tunings shows diverse but organized dynamics. Our results suggest that, in the presence of organized tuning diversity within an SF domain, the cortical SF organization remains stable over response time in these areas. Laminar analysis suggests that intracortical mechanisms contribute to generating SF dynamics inside the input layer but do not further shape it outside this layer.
A Mathematical Approach on Representation of Competitions: Competition Cluster Hypergraphs
Authors: Samanta Sovan , Muhiuddin G. , Alanazi Abdulaziz M. , Das Kousik
Published: June 2020

Social networks are represented using graph theory. In this case, individuals in a social network are assumed as nodes. Sometimes institutions or groups are also assumed as nodes. Institutions and such groups are assumed as cluster nodes that contain individuals or simple nodes. Hypergraphs have hyperedges that include more than one node. In this study, cluster hypergraphs are introduced to generalize the concept of hypergraphs, where cluster nodes are allowed. Sometimes competitions in the real world are done as groups. Cluster hypergraphs are used to represent such kinds of competitions. Competition cluster hypergraphs of semidirected graphs (a special type of mixed graphs called semidirected graphs, where the directed and undirected edges both are allowed) are introduced, and related properties are discussed. To define competition cluster hypergraphs, a few properties of semidirected graphs are established. Some associated terms on semidirected graphs are studied. At last, a numerical application is illustrated.
Club Cell Heme Oxygenase-1 Deletion: Effects in Hyperoxia-Exposed Adult Mice
Authors: Dunigan-Russell Katelyn , Silverberg Mary , Lin Vivian Y. , Li Rui , Wall Stephanie B. , Li Qian , Nicola Teodora , Gotham John , Crowe David R. , Vitiello Peter F. , Agarwal Anupam , Tipple Trent E.
Published: June 2020

Thioredoxin reductase-1 (TXNRD1) inhibition activates nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) responses and prevents acute lung injury (ALI). Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) induction following TXNRD1 inhibition is Nrf2-dependent in airway epithelial (club) cells in vitro. The influence of club cell HO-1 on lung development and lung injury responses is poorly understood. The present studies characterized the effects of hyperoxia on club cell-specific HO-1 knockout (KO) mice. These mice were generated by crossing Hmox1 flox mice with transgenic mice expressing cre recombinase under control of the club cell-specific Scgb1a1 promoter. Baseline analyses of lung architecture and function performed in age-matched adult wild-type and KO mice indicated an increased alveolar size and airway resistance in HO-1 KO mice. In subsequent experiments, adult wild-type and HO-1 KO mice were either continuously exposed to >95% hyperoxia or room air for 72 h or exposed to >95 hyperoxia for 48 h followed by recovery in room air for 48 h. Injury was quantitatively assessed by calculating right lung/body weight ratios (g/kg). Analyses indicated an independent effect of hyperoxia but not genotype on right lung/body weight ratios in both wild-type and HO-1 KO mice. The magnitude of increases in right lung/body weight ratios was similar in mice of both genotypes. In the recovery model, an independent effect of hyperoxia but not genotype was also detected. In contrast to the continuous exposure model, right lung/body weight ratio mice were significantly elevated in HO-1 KO but not wild-type mice. Though club cell HO-1 does not alter hyperoxic sensitivity in adult mice, it significantly influences lung development and resolution of lung injury following acute hyperoxic exposure.
Combined Orthodontic and Restorative Minimally Invasive Approach to Diastema and Morphology Management in the Esthetic Area. Clinical Multidisciplinary Case Report with 3-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Giannetti L. , Apponi R.
Published: June 2020

Introduction. Ceramic laminates are restorations that are bonded using adhesive techniques, which provide for the treatment of the prepared dental elements according to well-defined steps. Adhesive cementation guarantees high predictability and esthetics. Orthodontic treatment is the first choice in patients with a dental misalignment. Patients who have dental element color and shape issues will undergo restorative treatment following orthodontics. Case Report. This clinical report describes a case treated with an interdisciplinary approach (orthodontic and prosthetic) of a patient who presented with diastemas, inversion of dental axes, small clinical crowns, and chromatic imperfections in the anterior maxillary teeth. The esthetic expectations of the patient for the anterior portion of the maxillary anterior teeth have been successfully achieved through orthodontic treatment and the realization of ceramic veneers. An accurate interdisciplinary evaluation of the treatment was necessary for a satisfactory result in the anterior maxillary teeth esthetically compromised in several aspects. Discussion. The modern materials used with the strict protocol of the adhesive procedures allow a minimally invasive, highly esthetic approach with an excellent long-term prognosis. The restorations must reproduce the physiological characteristics of the natural teeth aiming at an excellent biological, biomechanical, functional, and esthetic integration. Many adult patients come to visit with a combination of problems; the esthetic rehabilitation of these cases requires the evaluation of the quantity of gingival exposure, of the gingival architecture, of the size of the clinical crowns, and of the dental position. The ideal treatment of these cases involves an interdisciplinary approach. Prosthodontists, periodontists, orthodontists, and dental technicians must work together because the understanding of the various phases of treatment is fundamental to achieve the desired clinical result. Conclusion. The coordinated treatment of the orthodontist, periodontist, and prosthodontist, with careful consideration of the expectations and requests of patients, was fundamental for the success and satisfaction of the patient.
Human Adipose Derived Cells in Two- and Three-Dimensional Cultures: Functional Validation of an In Vitro Fat Construct
Authors: Bender Robert , McCarthy Michelle , Brown Theodore , Bukowska Joanna , Smith Stanley , Abbott Rosalyn D. , Kaplan David L. , Williams Christopher , Wade James W. , Alarcon Andrea , Wu Xiying , Lau Frank , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Frazier Trivia
Published: June 2020

Obesity, defined as a body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or above, has increased considerably in incidence and frequency within the United States and globally. Associated comorbidities including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease have led to a focus on the mechanisms promoting the prevention and treatment of obesity. Commonly utilized in vitro models employ human or mouse preadipocyte cell lines in a 2-dimensional (2D) format. Due to the structural, biochemical, and biological limitations of these models, increased attention has been placed on “organ on a chip” technologies for a 3-dimensional (3D) culture. Herein, we describe a method employing cryopreserved primary human stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells and a human blood product-derived biological scaffold to create a 3D adipose depot in vitro. The “fat-on-chip” 3D cultures have been validated relative to 2D cultures based on proliferation, flow cytometry, adipogenic differentiation, confocal microscopy/immunofluorescence, and functional assays (adipokine secretion, glucose uptake, and lipolysis). Thus, the in vitro culture system demonstrates the critical characteristics required for a humanized 3D white adipose tissue (WAT) model.
Amelioration of Coagulation Disorders and Inflammation by Hydrogen-Rich Solution Reduces Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Rats through NF-κB/NLRP3 Pathway
Authors: Yang Ling , Guo Yan , Fan Xin , Chen Ye , Yang Bo , Liu Ke-Xuan , Zhou Jun
Published: June 2020

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury often causes inflammatory responses and coagulation disorders, which is further promoting the deterioration of the disease. Hydrogen has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic properties against various diseases. However, the effect of hydrogen on coagulation dysfunction after intestinal I/R and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore whether hydrogen-rich solution (HRS) could attenuate coagulation disorders and inflammation to improve intestinal injury and poor survival following intestinal I/R. The rat model of intestinal I/R injury was established by clamping the superior mesenteric artery for 90 min and reperfusion for 2 h. HRS (10 or 20 mL/kg) or 20 mL/kg 0.9% normal saline was intravenously injected at 10 min before reperfusion, respectively. The samples were harvested at 2 h after reperfusion for further analyses. Moreover, the survival rate was observed for 24 h. The results showed that HRS improved the survival rate and alleviated serum diamine oxidase activities, intestinal injury, edema, and apoptosis. Interestingly, HRS markedly improved intestinal I/R-mediated coagulation disorders as evidenced by abnormal conventional indicators of coagulation and thromboelastography. Additionally, HRS attenuated inflammatory responses and the elevated tissue factor (TF) and inhibited nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) and nucleotide binding and oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Moreover, inflammatory factors and myeloperoxidase were closely associated with TF level. This study thus emphasized upon the amelioration of coagulation disorders and inflammation by HRS as a mechanism to improve intestinal I/R-induced intestinal injury and poor survival, which might be partially related to inhibition of NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway.
Integrated Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of Meningiomas by Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis
Authors: Yang Biao , Wei Shuxun , Ma Yan-Bin , Chu Sheng-Hua
Published: June 2020

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor in adults. However, to date, systemic coexpression analyses for meningiomas fail to explain its pathogenesis. The aim of the present study was to construct coexpression modules and identify potential biomarkers associated with meningioma progression. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed based on GSE43290, and module preservation was tested by GSE74385. Functional annotations were performed to analyze biological significance. Hub genes were selected for efficacy evaluations and correlation analyses using two independent cohorts. A total of 14 coexpression modules were identified, and module lightcyan was significantly associated with WHO grades. Functional enrichment analyses of module lightcyan were associated with tumor pathogenesis. The top 10 hub genes were extracted. Ten biomarkers, particularly AHCYL2, FGL2, and KCNMA1, were significantly related to grades and prognosis of meningioma. These findings not only construct coexpression modules leading to the better understanding of its pathogenesis but also provide potential biomarkers that represent specific on tumor grades and identify recurrence, predicting prognosis and progression of meningiomas.
The CC Genotype of Insulin-Induced Gene 2 rs7566605 Is a Protective Factor of Hypercholesteremia Susceptible to Mild Cognitive Impairment, Especially to the Executive Function of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhang Haoqiang , Huang Rong , Tian Sai , An Ke , Zhu Wenwen , Shi Jijing , Cao Wuyou , Wang Shaohua
Published: June 2020

Backgrounds and Aims. Insulin-induced gene 2 (INSIG-2) is closely related to hypercholesteremia, which is a well‐recognized risk factor of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We aim to investigate the association between promoter of the INSIG-2 rs7566605 single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and T2DM with MCI. Methods. 233 T2DM patients with MCI or without MCI were recruited. Baseline data and genotype frequency were compared between MCI and non‐MCI groups. Demographic parameters and neuropsychological tests results were analyzed among patients with different genotypes. Further correlation and regression analysis were conducted to find the association between cognition and cholesterol. Results. Despite no significant statistical difference was detected, we observed higher levels of total cholesterol (TC) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) in patients with MCI than those without MCI. In addition, we observed higher TC and LDL levels in patients with GG or GC genotypes than those with CC genotype (P < 0.001, P = 0.004, or P < 0.001, P = 0.002). Interestingly, increased MoCA and decreased TMTB scores were found in patients with CC genotype, compared to those with GG or CG genotype (P = 0.009, P = 0.024, or P = 0.005, P = 0.109). Moreover, partial correlation (P = 0.030 and P = 0.004, respectively) and multiple linear regression (P = 0.030 and P = 0.005, respectively) showed that TC and LDL levels are associated with the TMTB score, indicating the executive function. Conclusions. CC genotype of INSIG-2 rs7566605 may be a protective factor of hypercholesteremia susceptible to MCI, especially to the executive function of T2DM. This trial is registered with ChiCTROCC15006060.
Investigation of a Spin-0 Massive Charged Particle Subject to a Homogeneous Magnetic Field with Potentials in a Topologically Trivial Flat Class of Gödel-Type Space-Time
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we investigate the relativistic quantum dynamics of spin-0 massive charged particle subject to a homogeneous magnetic field in the Gödel-type space-time with potentials. We solve the Klein-Gordon equation subject to a homogeneous magnetic field in a topologically trivial flat class of Gödel-type space-time in the presence of Cornell-type scalar and Coulomb-type vector potentials and analyze the effects on the energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions.
Effects of Climate Variability on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in the Gojeb River Catchment, Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Dagnachew Melku , Kebede Asfaw , Moges Awdenegest , Abebe Adane
Published: June 2020

Vegetation dynamics have been visibly influenced by climate variability. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) has been the most commonly used index in vegetation dynamics. The study was conducted to examine the effects of climatic variability (rainfall) on NDVI for the periods 1982–2015 in the Gojeb River Catchment (GRC), Omo-Gibe Basin, Ethiopia. The spatiotemporal trend in NDVI and rainfall time series was assessed using a Theil–Sen (Sen) slope and Mann–Kendall (MK) statistical significance test at a 95% confidence interval. Moreover, the residual trend analysis (RESTREND) method was used to investigate the effect of rainfall and human induction on vegetation degradation. The Sen’s slope trend analysis and MK significant test indicated that the magnitude of annual NDVI and rainfall showed significant decrement and/or increment in various portions of the GRC. The concurrent decrement and/or increment of annual NDVI and rainfall distributions both spatially and temporarily could be attributed to the significant positive correlation of the monthly (RNDVI-RF = 0.189, P≤0.001) and annual (RNDVI-RF = 0.637, P≤0.001) NDVI with rainfall in almost all portions of the catchment. In the GRC, a strongly negative decrement and strong positive increment of NDVI could be derived by human-induced and rainfall variability, respectively. Accordingly, the significant NDVI decrement in the downstream portion and significant increment in the northern portion of the catchment could be attributed to human-induced vegetation degradation and the variability of rainfall, respectively. The dominance of a decreasing trend in the residuals at the pixel level for the NDVI from 1982, 1984, 2000, 2008 to 2012 indicates vegetation degradation. The strong upward trend in the residuals evident from 1983, 1991, 1998 to 2007 was indicative of vegetation improvements. In the GRC, the residuals may be derived from climatic variations (mainly rainfall) and human activities. The time lag between NDVI and climate factors (rainfall) varied mainly from two to three months. In the study catchment, since vegetation degradations are mainly caused by human induction and rainfall variability, integrated and sustainable landscape management and climate-smart agricultural practices could have paramount importance in reversing the degradation processes.
Exploring Factors Affecting the Yellow-Light Running Behavior of Electric Bike Riders at Urban Intersections in China
Authors: Cai Jing , Zhao Jianyou , Liu Jing , Shen Ke , Li Xun , Ye Yuntao
Published: June 2020

Electric bikes play an important role in the urban transportation system in China. Yellow-light running behavior of riders is one of the most critical factors for e-bike riders involved in traffic crashes at intersection. The main purpose of this study is to explore how a variety of factors affect e-bike riders’ yellow-light running behaviors at intersection by a field observation conducted in Xi’an, China. Based on 396 e-bike riders who faced yellow-light samples, two analytical methods, the principle component analysis logistics model and a base logistics model, were employed to evaluate the impacts of contributing factors on e-bike riders’ yellow-light running behavior. The modeling results showed that seven variables significantly affect the e-bike riders’ yellow-light running behavior, which were the approaching speed of e-bike, the distance to stop line, riders’ age and gender attributes, type of e-bike, and the characteristics of intersection including the width of intersection and the existence of physical barriers. This study can provide valuable insights into understanding e-bike riders’ yellow-light running behavior and may also help decision makers propose countermeasures to reduce e-bike rider-related crashes at intersection.
Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F Treatment for Stage IV Diabetic Nephropathy: Protocol for a Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lengnan Xu , Ban Zhao , Haitao Wang , Lili Liu , Aiqun Chen , Huan Wang , Ping Zeng , Yonghui Mao
Published: June 2020

Background. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). There are no effective treatments to prevent or reverse the progression of DN. A preliminary study showed that Tripterygium glycosides from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) with valsartan decrease proteinuria in patients with DN. Objectives. The objective of the present study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of Tripterygium glycosides from TwHF, a traditional Chinese medicine, for the treatment of DN. Methods and Analysis. This is a prospective, single‐center randomized controlled trial. Seventy participants diagnosed with DN were recruited and randomized 1 : 1 to two groups: (1) angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) combined with TwHF and (2) ARB‐only. The treatment period is 48 weeks. The primary endpoint is 24 h proteinuria decreased level (reduction of 30% vs. baseline) after 48 weeks of treatment. The secondary endpoints are (1) all‐cause and cardiovascular‐related mortality, (2) development of ESRD (serum creatinine > 530.4 μmol/L or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2), (3) the need for renal replacement therapy, and (4) increased serum creatinine (2‐fold higher than the baseline value or ≥442 μmol/L, with confirmation of the initial results after 4 weeks). A health economics analysis will be carried out. Discussion. A meta‐analysis of RCTs carried out in patients with stage 4 (Mogensen classification) diabetic CKD showed that TwHF combined with an ARB was more effective than an ARB alone when considering 24 h proteinuria and serum albumin, but with an increase in adverse event (AE) frequency of 8%. This is a prospective clinical trial that may provide information on a safe and effective novel method for the treatment of DN, especially for patients with macroproteinuria. Ethics and Dissemination. The protocol is approved by the ethics committee of Beijing Hospital (2016BJYYEC‐059‐02). The results will be disseminated through peer‐reviewed publications and international conferences. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-IOR-17010623.
The Successful Use of Infliximab in a Relapsing Case of Susac’s Syndrome
Authors: Fernando Suran L. , Boyle Therese , Smith Annika , Parratt John D.E.
Published: June 2020

Susac’s syndrome is a rare and debilitating disease characterized by the triad of encephalopathy, branch retinal artery occlusions, and sensorineural hearing loss. All manifestations may not be clinically apparent at presentation resulting in delayed diagnosis. Early recognition of the syndrome may prevent disease sequelae such as permanent cognitive, visual, and hearing loss. We present such a case of Susac’s syndrome that was also refractory to conventionally prescribed combination of immunosuppressive treatments including high-dose potent corticosteroids, intravenous cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, plasma exchange, rituximab, and mycophenolate. His disease was stabilized with infliximab in combination with a tapering course of low-dose prednisone. After 2 years of remission with TNF treatment, consideration is being given to ceasing therapy. He has the sequelae of bilateral sensorineural hearing loss but no visual impairment or cognitive deficits on follow-up with neuropsychometric testing. This is the first case report to our knowledge of the successful use of infliximab for a patient with Susac’s syndrome that was necessary following treatment with cyclophosphamide and then rituximab.
Using Artificial Intelligence Resources in Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Patients: A Literature Review
Authors: Burlacu Alexandru , Iftene Adrian , Jugrin Daniel , Popa Iolanda Valentina , Lupu Paula Madalina , Vlad Cristiana , Covic Adrian
Published: June 2020

Background. The purpose of this review is to depict current research and impact of artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms on dialysis and kidney transplantation. Published studies were presented from two points of view: What medical aspects were covered? What AI/ML algorithms have been used? Methods. We searched four electronic databases or studies that used AI/ML in hemodialysis (HD), peritoneal dialysis (PD), and kidney transplantation (KT). Sixty‐nine studies were split into three categories: AI/ML and HD, PD, and KT, respectively. We identified 43 trials in the first group, 8 in the second, and 18 in the third. Then, studies were classified according to the type of algorithm. Results. AI and HD trials covered: (a) dialysis service management, (b) dialysis procedure, (c) anemia management, (d) hormonal/dietary issues, and (e) arteriovenous fistula assessment. PD studies were divided into (a) peritoneal technique issues, (b) infections, and (c) cardiovascular event prediction. AI in transplantation studies were allocated into (a) management systems (ML used as pretransplant organ‐matching tools), (b) predicting graft rejection, (c) tacrolimus therapy modulation, and (d) dietary issues. Conclusions. Although guidelines are reluctant to recommend AI implementation in daily practice, there is plenty of evidence that AI/ML algorithms can predict better than nephrologists: volumes, Kt/V, and hypotension or cardiovascular events during dialysis. Altogether, these trials report a robust impact of AI/ML on quality of life and survival in G5D/T patients. In the coming years, one would probably witness the emergence of AI/ML devices that facilitate the management of dialysis patients, thus increasing the quality of life and survival.
Model-based Dose Individualization of Sunitinib in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Centanni Maddalena , Krishnan Sreenath M. , Friberg Lena E.
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Various biomarkers have been proposed for sunitinib therapy in gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). However, the lack of “real-life” comparative studies hampers the selection of the most appropriate one. We, therefore, set up a pharmacometric simulation framework to compare each proposed biomarker.

Experimental Design:

Models describing relations between sunitinib exposure, adverse events (hand–foot syndrome, fatigue, hypertension, and neutropenia), soluble VEGFR (sVEGFR)-3, and overall survival (OS) were connected to evaluate the differences in survival and adverse events under different dosing algorithms. Various fixed dosing regimens [4/2 (weeks on/weeks off) or 2/1 (50 mg), and continuous daily dosing (37.5 mg)] and individualization approaches [concentration-adjusted dosing (CAD), toxicity-adjusted dosing (TAD), and sVEGFR-3–adjusted dosing (VAD)] were explored following earlier suggested blood sampling schedules and dose-reduction criteria. Model-based forecasts of biomarker changes were evaluated for predictive accuracy and the advantage of a model-based dosing algorithm was evaluated for clinical implementation.

Results:

The continuous daily dosing regimen was predicted to result in the longest survival. TAD (24.5 months) and VAD (25.5 months) increased median OS as compared with a fixed dose schedule (19.9 and 21.5 months, respectively) and CAD (19.7 and 21.3 months, respectively), without markedly raising the risk of intolerable toxicities. Changes in neutrophil count and sVEGFR-3 were accurately forecasted in the majority of subjects (>65%), based on biweekly blood sampling.

Conclusions:

Dose adjustments based on the pharmacodynamic biomarkers neutrophil count and sVEGFR-3 can increase OS while retaining drug safety. Future efforts could explore the possibility of incorporating a model-based dose approach in clinical practice to increase dosing accuracy for these biomarkers.
Chronic Functional Tremor: Positive Signs in the Management, Including Mirror Therapy
Authors: Joos Andreas , Halmer Ramona
Published: June 2020

Functional tremor (FT) is a common functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) and difficult to treat. Diagnosis is often delayed in FNSD, which reinforces maladaptation and chronicity. The presented case, who had suffered from FT for 2 years, demonstrates the value of positive neurological symptoms in the diagnosis and treatment of FNSD, even in a chronic case. The patient improved well during integrated inpatient rehabilitation, which included mirror therapy (MT). He had complete suppressibility of the tremor during distraction, which was shown to him, and reversibility of the FT was emphasized. Due do the suppressibility when focusing on the contralateral arm, we installed MT as part of a combined inpatient neurological-psychotherapeutic rehabilitation treatment lasting 8 weeks. During treatment, some strong emotional themes came up. At the end of rehabilitation, the tremor almost completely subsided. Possible pathomechanisms are discussed. Future studies are recommended for determining the effectiveness of MT in FNSD with one-sided symptoms.
Refrigeração e cadeia do frio para alimentos
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Oliveira Alessandra Lopes de
Published: June 2020

A obra é fruto do estudo, da pesquisa e da experiência da autora Alessandra Lopes de Oliveira, responsável pelo Laboratório de Tecnologia à Alta Pressão e Produtos Naturais (LTAPPN) na Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA) da Universidade de São Paulo, onde também desenvolve pesquisas que abordam a termodinâmica teórica e aplicada e, nos cursos de engenharias da referida faculdade, é responsável pelas disciplinas de Refrigeração e Cadeia do Frio e Termodinâmica. O livro trata de temas como conservação de alimentos e a cadeia do frio; mostra diagramas de ciclos frigoríficos - a refrigeração e o sistema de compressão; aborda cálculo de carga térmica, evaporadores, compressores, condensadores, válvulas, refrigerantes, câmaras frigoríficas, e estocagem de alimentos – perda de peso, controle de umidade e manuseio.
Predictors of Treatment Response Following Ultrasound-Facilitated Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for Submassive and Massive Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Sardar Partha , Piazza Gregory , Goldhaber Samuel Z. , Liu Ping-Yu , Prabhu William , Soukas Peter , Aronow Herbert D.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Little is known about which factors predict improvement in clinical and imaging parameters among patients undergoing catheter-directed thrombolysis for submassive or massive pulmonary embolism. The identification of such predictors may allow for more appropriate patient selection for ultrasound-facilitated catheter-directed thrombolysis.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patients from the SEATTLE II trial (Prospective, Single-Arm, Multi-Center Trial of EkoSonic Endovascular System and Activase for Treatment of Acute Pulmonary Embolism) to identify clinical characteristics that independently predict pulmonary artery pressures, right ventricular-to-left ventricular (RV/LV) diameter ratio, and modified Miller angiographic index following ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis. Eligible patients had submassive or massive pulmonary embolism and an RV/LV diameter ratio ≥0.9 on chest computed tomography. Multivariable linear regression was used to identify independent clinical predictors of each outcome.

Results:

One hundred fifty patients with massive (n=31) or submassive (n=119) pulmonary embolism were enrolled. Mean (±SD) baseline and postprocedure RV/LV diameter ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and modified Miller Score were 1.59 (±0.39) and 1.14 (±0.2), 51.45 (±16.0), and 37.47 (±11.9), and 23.0 (±5.7) and 15.7 (±5.9), respectively. The multivariable model adjusted
R
2
for absolute change in RV/LV ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, modified Miller Score was 0.71, 0.57, and 0.43, respectively. After adjusting for age, gender, and baseline RV/LV ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and modified Miller Score, patients with higher body mass index, renal or hepatic dysfunction, active smoking, or a higher baseline heart rate showed less improvement.

Conclusions:

Patients with more life-threatening pulmonary embolism may derive the greatest benefit from ultrasound-assisted, catheter-directed thrombolysis.