bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential role of exosomes derived from ovarian cancer cells for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Yang Changwon , Kim Hee Seung , Song Gwonhwa , Lim Whasun
Published: May 2019

Most patients with ovarian cancer (OC) are diagnosed at the advanced stages due to the absence of appropriate early diagnostic markers. Thus, OC is a gynecological disease with a low‐survival rate. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that are widely being considered as mediators for the noninvasive diagnosis of OC. Exosomes are expected to aid in the effective diagnosis of OC because they carry components, such as RNAs, proteins, and lipids, the compositions of which vary depending on the pathological characteristics of the patient. In this review, we document the methods that have been developed to detect exosomes and their components in OC. We also assess the potential biomarkers contained in exosomes that could be clinically useful, such as proteins, microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and phospholipids. Moreover, we described the role played by exosomes in the tumor microenvironment and in OC angiogenesis, migration, and tumor growth. Various types of cells in the tumor microenvironment, including macrophages, fibroblasts, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), interact directly with exosomes and promote or inhibit the progression of OC. Therefore, we summarize the studies that have suggested a therapeutic approach to OC using exosomes. Collectively, understanding the mechanism of exosome‐based OC progression would broaden our knowledge regarding the diagnosis and therapy of OC.
Association of lifestyle factors and inflammation with sarcopenic obesity: data from the PREDIMED‐Plus trial
Authors: Abete Itziar , Konieczna Jadwiga , Zulet M. Angeles , Galmés‐Panades Aina M. , Ibero‐Baraibar Idoia , Babio Nancy , Estruch Ramón , Vidal Josep , Toledo Estefanía , Razquin Cristina , Bartolomé Rafael , Díaz‐Lopez Andrés , Fiol Miquel , Casas Rosa , Vera Josep , Buil‐Cosiales Pilar , Pintó Xavier , Corbella Emili , Portillo Maria Puy , de Paz Jose Antonio , Martín Vicente , Daimiel Lidia , Goday Albert , Rosique‐Esteban Nuria , Salas‐Salvadó Jordi , Romaguera Dora , Martínez J. Alfredo ,   on behalf of PREDIMED‐PLUS Investigators
Published: May 2019

Background

Sarcopenia is a progressive age‐related skeletal muscle disorder associated with increased likelihood of adverse outcomes. Muscle wasting is often accompanied by an increase in body fat, leading to ‘sarcopenic obesity’. The aim of the present study was to analyse the association of lifestyle variables such as diet, dietary components, physical activity (PA), body composition, and inflammatory markers, with the risk of sarcopenic obesity.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis based on baseline data from the PREDIMED‐Plus study was performed. A total of 1535 participants (48% women) with overweight/obesity (body mass index: 32.5 ± 3.3 kg/m2; age: 65.2 ± 4.9 years old) and metabolic syndrome were categorized according to sex‐specific tertiles (T) of the sarcopenic index (SI) as assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scanning. Anthropometrical measurements, biochemical markers, dietary intake, and PA information were collected. Linear regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the association between variables.

Results

Subjects in the first SI tertile were older, less physically active, showed higher frequency of abdominal obesity and diabetes, and consumed higher saturated fat and less vitamin C than subjects from the other two tertiles (all P < 0.05). Multiple adjusted linear regression models evidenced significant positive associations across tertiles of SI with adherence to the Mediterranean dietary score (P‐trend < 0.05), PA (P‐trend < 0.0001), and the 30 s chair stand test (P‐trend < 0.0001), whereas significant negative associations were found with an inadequate vitamin C consumption (P‐trend < 0.05), visceral fat and leucocyte count (all P‐trend < 0.0001), and some white cell subtypes (neutrophils and monocytes), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, and platelet count (all P‐trend < 0.05). When models were additionally adjusted by potential mediators (inflammatory markers, diabetes, and waist circumference), no relevant changes were observed, only dietary variables lost significance.

Conclusions

Diet and PA are important regulatory mediators of systemic inflammation, which is directly involved in the sarcopenic process. A healthy dietary pattern combined with exercise is a promising strategy to limit age‐related sarcopenia.
Liver toxicity from vitamin A
Authors: Fox Rosanna , Stace Nigel , Wood Karen , French Claire
Published: May 2019

Hepatic toxicity secondary to hypervitaminosis A is extremely rare. We report the case of a 27‐year‐old Caucasian female who presented for an investigation of abdominal pain, cholestatic liver function tests, and abnormal computerized tomography findings. She had been prescribed isotretinoin for her acne and had subsequently purchased vitamin A online, which she consumed daily for over 18 months.
Performance of Surveillance MR Enterography (MRE) in Asymptomatic Children and Adolescents With Crohn's Disease
Authors: Chu Katrina F. , Moran Christopher J. , Wu Kaiming , Kaplan Jess L. , Savarino Jeffrey R. , Board Tamsin , Israel Esther J. , Winter Harland S. , Gee Michael S.
Published: May 2019

Background

MR enterography (MRE) is the primary modality for evaluating small bowel disease in pediatric Crohn's patients. Standard clinical practice includes imaging patients at diagnosis and during symptomatic recurrence. The role for MRE in surveillance of asymptomatic Crohn's patients has not yet been established.

Purpose

To determine whether MRE imaging features are associated with clinical recurrence.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Populations

Pediatric Crohn's patients who underwent MRE while asymptomatic, defined by pediatric gastroenterologists using a physician global assessment; 35 MREs were identified.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T including T2‐weighted single‐shot fast spin echo, balanced steady‐state free precession, diffusion‐weighted, and contrast‐enhanced multiphase T1‐weighted gradient recalled echo sequences.

Assessment

MREs were reviewed by three radiologists independently for mural thickening, T2‐weighted hyperintensity, diffusion restriction, hyperenhancement, vasa recta engorgement, and overall assessment of disease activity. Two pediatric gastroenterologists reviewed patient medical records for 6 months following MRE to evaluate for recurrence, defined as Crohn's‐related treatment escalation, surgery, or hospitalization.

Statistical Tests

Fisher's exact test, Wald chi‐square test, and model selection by Akaike information criterion minimization were used to assess statistical significance of MRE imaging features.

Results

Of 35 MREs identified, seven cases demonstrated clinical recurrence at 6 months (20%); 28 cases remained in remission (80%). Imaging features of active disease were present in 86% of patients with recurrence compared to 29% of patients in remission (P = 0.01). Wall thickening, T2‐weighted hyperintensity, hyperenhancement, and diffusion restriction were significantly associated with recurrence. Multivariate regression analysis determined diffusion restriction to be the best predictor of recurrence within 6 months (P = 0.001, area under the curve 0.786).

Data Conclusion

MRE performed on young asymptomatic Crohn's patients can identify patients who have a high probability of developing clinical recurrence in a 6‐month period, indicating a potential role for surveillance imaging to assess for subclinical active disease.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1955–1963.
Axillary reverse mapping and lymphaticovenous bypass: Lymphedema prevention through enhanced lymphatic visualization and restoration of flow
Authors: Schwarz Graham S. , Grobmyer Stephen R. , Djohan Risal S. , Cakmakoglu Cagri , Bernard Steven L. , Radford Diane , Al‐Hilli Zahraa , Knackstedt Rebecca , Djohan Michelle , Valente Stephanie A.
Published: May 2019

Background

A lymphedema (LE) prevention surgery (LPS) paradigm for patients undergoing axillary lymphadenectomy (ALND) was developed to protect against LE through enhanced lymphatic visualization during axillary reverse mapping (ARM) and refinement in decision making during lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a prospective database was performed evaluating patients with breast cancer who underwent ALND, ARM, and LVB from September 2016 to December 2018. Patient and tumor characteristics, oncologic and reconstructive operative details, complications and LE development were analyzed.

Results

LPS was completed in 58 patients with a mean age of 51.7 years. An average of 14 lymph nodes (LN) were removed during ALND. An average of 2.1 blue lymphatic channels were visualized with an average of 1.4 LVBs performed per patient. End to end anastomosis was performed in 37 patients and a multiple lymphatic intussusception technique in 21. Patency was confirmed 96.5% of patients. Adjuvant radiation was administered to 89% of patients. Two patients developed LE with a median follow‐up of 11.8 months.

Conclusion

We report on our experience using a unique LPS technique. Refinements in ARM and a systematic approach to LVB allows for maximal preservation of lymphatic continuity, identification of transected lymphatics, and reestablishment of upper extremity lymphatic drainage pathways.
Ultrasound Biomicroscopy and High‐Frequency Ultrasound for Evaluating Extramammary Paget Disease With Pathologic Correlation
Authors: Chen Si‐Tong , Guo Le‐Hang , Yan Jian‐Na , Wang Qiao , Li Xiao‐Long , Li Ming‐Xu , Zhu Rui‐Zheng , Yang Wei‐Ping , Xu Hui‐Xiong
Published: May 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the performance of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS) in the assessment of extramammary Paget disease (EMPD) and to correlate the imaging features with pathologic findings.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we described the imaging features from UBM and HFUS based on 17 pathologically proven EMPD cases. The performance for visualizing layer involvement by UBM and HFUS was compared. Additionally, we checked the consistency between layer involvement of the lesions on UBM images and the pathologic results. Additionally, blood flow and the status of lymph nodes were investigated with HFUS.

Results

Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed that all 17 lesions (100%) were hypoechoic and grew in a creeping form. The feature of layer involvement was shown in 10 lesions (58.8%) limited to the epidermis and 6 lesions (35.3%) involving the dermis, and the remaining lesion (5.9%) involved the full skin layers. Layer involvement was clearly displayed by UBM for all lesions (100%) but for only 5 lesions (29.4%) by HFUS (P < .001). Additionally, the layer involvement of 15 lesions (88.2%) on UBM was consistent with the pathologic results (κ = 0.746). High‐frequency ultrasound revealed profuse blood flow in most lesions (64.7% [11 of 17]), and 1 case showed inguinal lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions

Combined use of UBM and HFUS can provide key information on EMPD based on ultrasound features. Comparatively, UBM provides clearer morphologic information, whereas HFUS provides information on lymph node metastasis and blood flow.
Impact of erosion‐induced land degradation on rainfall infiltration in different types of soils under field simulation
Authors: Wei Yujie , Wu Xinliang , Cai Chongfa , Wang Jie , Xia Jinwen , Wang Junguang , Guo Zhonglu , Yuan Zaijian
Published: May 2019

Land degradation induced by water erosion is a worldwide problem for sustainable agriculture. Erosion results in the alteration of soil properties to a varying extent that depends on soil type. However, limited attempts have been made to assess the impact of erosion‐induced land degradation on soil infiltration on a wide range of soil types. Herein, field rainfall simulation experiments were performed on prewetted bare heavy‐textured soils at three erosion degrees (no, moderate, and very severe) for five types of soils (Calcic Luvisol, Ferric Luvisol, Plinthic Alisol, Plinthic Acrisol, and Acric Ferralsol). Soil infiltration rate was determined at two rainfall intensities (45 and 90 mm hr−1) and 3‐min intervals for 60‐min runoff duration on microplots (3 m long × 0.8 m wide, 10° slope). At the low rainfall intensity, the impact of erosion‐induced land degradation on rainfall infiltration increased from Calcic Luvisol to Plinthic Acrisol, and the steady state infiltration rate (fc) was well characterized by bulk density and 1.4‐nm intergrade minerals (Adj‐R2 = 0.79, p < 0.001). At the high rainfall intensity, fc was negatively related with illite solely (Adj‐R2 = 0.25, p < .05) and generally increased with an increase of erosion severity; the impact of erosion‐induced land degradation on fc was magnified for Calcic Luvisol and Acric Ferralsol but lessened for other soil types. Collectively, the impact of erosion‐induced land degradation generally increased with increased soil structural stability at the low rainfall intensity and was determined by the interaction between soil structure and rainfall at the high rainfall intensity.
Trial of magnetic resonance–guided putaminal gene therapy for advanced Parkinson's disease
Authors: Heiss John D. , Lungu Codrin , Hammoud Dima A. , Herscovitch Peter , Ehrlich Debra J. , Argersinger Davis P. , Sinharay Sanhita , Scott Gretchen , Wu Tianxia , Federoff Howard J. , Zaghloul Kareem A. , Hallett Mark , Lonser Russell R. , Bankiewicz Krystof S.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate the safety and tolerability of convection‐enhanced delivery of an adeno‐associated virus, serotype‐2 vector carrying glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor into the bilateral putamina of PD patients.

Methods

Thirteen adult patients with advanced PD underwent adeno‐associated virus, serotype‐2 vector carrying glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor and gadoteridol (surrogate MRI tracer) coinfusion (450 μL/hemisphere) at escalating doses: 9 × 1010 vg (n = 6); 3 × 1011 vg (n = 6); and 9 × 1011 vg (n = 1). Intraoperative MRI monitored infusion distribution. Patients underwent UPDRS assessment and [18F]FDOPA‐PET scanning preoperatively and 6 and 18 months postoperatively.

Results

Adeno‐associated virus, serotype‐2 vector carrying glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor was tolerated without clinical or radiographic toxicity. Average putaminal coverage was 26%. UPDRS scores remained stable. Ten of thirteen and 12 of 13 patients had increased [18F]FDOPA Kis at 6 and 18 months postinfusion (increase range: 5–274% and 8–130%; median, 36% and 54%), respectively. Ki differences between baseline and 6‐ and 18‐month follow‐up were statistically significant (P < 0.0002).

Conclusion

Adeno‐associated virus, serotype‐2 vector carrying glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor infusion was safe and well tolerated. Increased [18F]FDOPA uptake suggests a neurotrophic effect on dopaminergic neurons. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Theoretical and spectral numerical study for fractional Van der Pol equation
Authors: Ezz‐Eldien Samer S.
Published: May 2019

This manuscript concerns with both theoretical and numerical study for a generalized form of fractional Van der Pol equations (FVDPEs). The Schauder fixed point and Banach contraction mapping principles are used for investigating the existence and uniqueness of the considered problem. The second novelty of this manuscript is using the tau method for solving a nonlinear problem (specially FVDPE). The convergence analysis of the suggested approach is also studied. Comparisons with other numerical approaches are introduced for testing the applicability of the current approach.
Hair, Nails, and Skin: Differentiating Cutaneous Manifestations of Micronutrient Deficiency
Authors: DiBaise Michelle , Tarleton Sherry M.
Published: May 2019

Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) commonly lead to cutaneous abnormalities involving the skin, hair, and nails, and these cutaneous manifestations often provide clues to the existence of the underlying deficiency. MNDs may be present in at‐risk individuals who have impaired absorption or poor dietary intake. The micronutrients that most commonly present with cutaneous findings include the B vitamins riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, biotin, and vitamin B12; vitamin C; the fat‐soluble vitamins A, E, and K; the minerals zinc, iron, copper, and selenium; and essential fatty acids. This review will highlight the most common clinical hair, skin, and nail presentations associated with MNDs and an approach to their treatment.
Effect of alkali treatment on composites made from recycled polyethylene and chestnut cupula
Authors: Boran Torun Sevda , Pesman Emrah , Donmez Cavdar Ayfer
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of alkali treatment on the mechanical, physical properties of cupula fibers reinforced recycled high density polyethylene (r‐HDPE) composites. The composites were produced with different chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) cupula fiber contents, up to 50%, and polyethylene‐grafted maleic anhydride. The mechanical, physical, thermal, and morphological properties of the treated and untreated samples were investigated. In addition, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to observe the interactions and functional groups between cupula fiber and r‐HDPE in the composite samples. The alkali treatment with 5 wt% NaOH solution had an affirmative effect on the tensile and flexural properties. It was found that an increase of 20% in flexural strength values with up to 40 wt% alkali treated cupula fiber loading in polymer matrix compared to that of untreated samples. After 5 wt% NaOH treatment, the crystallinity decreased with the increase of the chestnut cupula fiber ratio. As excepted, the FTIR analysis showed that the alkali treatment resulted in removal of hemicellulose, and lignin from cupula fiber. The results revealed that the alkali treated chestnut cupula fiber can be used successfully in polymer composites as a natural fiber filler.
Assessment of ICD‐10‐CM code assignment validity for case finding of outpatient anticoagulant‐related bleeding among Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Shehab Nadine , Ziemba Robert , Campbell Kyle N. , Geller Andrew I. , Moro Ruth N. , Gage Brian F. , Budnitz Daniel S. , Yang Tsu‐Hsuan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To assess performance of International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐10‐CM) code assignments for identifying bleeding events resulting in emergency department visits and hospitalizations among outpatient Medicare beneficiaries prescribed anticoagulants.

Methods

Performance of 206 ICD‐10‐CM code assignments indicative of bleeding, five anticoagulant adverse effect/poisoning codes, and five coagulopathy codes (according to Medicare Parts A and B claims) as assessed among Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries prescribed anticoagulants between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016 (according to Part D claims). Structured medical record review was the gold standard for validating the presence of anticoagulant‐related bleeding. Sensitivity was adjusted to correct for partial verification bias due to sampling design.

Results

Based on the study sample of 1166 records (583 cases, 583 controls), 57 of 206 codes yielded the optimal performance for anticoagulant‐related bleeding (diagnostic odds ratio, 51; positive predictive value (PPV), 75.7% [95% CI, 72.0%‐79.1%]; adjusted sensitivity, 70.0% [95% CI, 63.2%‐77.7%]). Codes for intracranial bleeding demonstrated the highest PPV (85.0%) and adjusted sensitivity (91.0%). Bleeding codes in the primary position demonstrated high PPV (86.9%), but low adjusted sensitivity (36.0%). The adjusted sensitivity improved to 69.5% when codes in a secondary position were added. Only one adverse effect/poisoning code was used, appearing in 7.8% of cases and controls (PPV, 71.4% and adjusted sensitivity, 6.8%).

Conclusions

Performance of ICD‐10‐CM code assignments for bleeding among patients prescribed anticoagulants varied by bleed type and code position. Adverse effect/poisoning codes were not commonly used and would have missed over 90% of anticoagulant‐related bleeding cases.
Regional variations in longitudinal pulmonary function: A comparison of Hispanic and non‐Hispanic subjects with cystic fibrosis in the United States
Authors: McGarry Meghan E. , Neuhaus John M. , Nielson Dennis W. , Ly Ngoc P.
Published: May 2019

Background

Hispanic subjects with cystic fibrosis (CF) have increased morbidity and mortality than non‐Hispanic white subjects. The ethnic disparity in mortality varies by region. Factors influencing pulmonary function vary by both ethnicity and region.

Objective

To determine if the ethnic difference in pulmonary function varies by region.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study compared differences in longitudinal pulmonary function (percent‐predicted forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1], forced expiratory flow at 25% to 75% [FEF25‐75], FEV1/FVC, and FEV1 decline) between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white subjects with CF by Census region of the United States (West, South, Midwest, and Northeast). Subjects were of ages 6 to 25 years and in the CF Foundation Patient Registry from 2008 to 2013. We used linear mixed effects models with subject‐specific slopes and intercepts, adjusting for 14 demographic and clinical variables.

Results

Of 14 932 subjects, 1433 (9.6%) were Hispanic and 13 499 (90.4%) were non‐Hispanic white. Hispanic subjects’ FEV1 was 9.0% (8.3%‐9.8%) lower than non‐Hispanic white subjects in the West, while Hispanic subjects’ FEV1 was only 4.0% (3.0%‐5.0%) lower in the Midwest, 4.4% (3.1%‐5.7%) lower in the Northeast, and 4.4% (3.2%‐5.5%) lower in the South. Similarly, FVC and FEF25‐75 were lower among Hispanic subjects compared to non‐Hispanic white subjects in all US regions, with the biggest differences in the West. Only in the West was FEV1/FVC significantly lower in Hispanic subjects (−0.019; −0.022 to −0.015). FEV1 decline was not significantly different between ethnicities in any region.

Conclusions

In CF, Hispanic subjects have lower pulmonary function than non‐Hispanic white subjects in all geographic regions with the largest difference in occurring in the West.
Open Problems on Classical de Sitter Solutions
Authors: Andriot David
Published: May 2019

Classical 10d string backgrounds with a 4d de Sitter space‐time, D‐brane and orientifold sources, are commonly believed to satisfy the following:

There is no classical de Sitter solution with parallel sources.

Classical de Sitter solutions with intersecting sources are unstable.

Classical de Sitter solutions cannot have at the same time a large internal volume, a small string coupling, a bounded number of orientifolds and quantized fluxes.

These three conjectures are of particular relevance to the swampland program, and if true, they challenge the connection of string theory to cosmology. We restrict here to a standard solution ansatz for which the problem is well‐defined, and we still fail to prove analytically any of these conjectures. While developing new tools and obtaining new constraints, we identify remaining corners of parameter space where counter‐examples to these conjectures could be found.
Analysis of paediatric visual acuity using Bayesian copula models with sinh‐arcsinh marginal densities
Authors: Stander Julian , Dalla Valle Luciana , Taglioni Charlotte , Liseo Brunero , Wade Angie , Cortina‐Borja Mario
Published: May 2019

We analyse paediatric ophthalmic data from a large sample of children aged between 3 and 8 years. We use a Bayesian additive conditional bivariate copula regression model with sinh‐arcsinh marginal densities with location, scale, and shape parameters that depend smoothly on a covariate. We perform Bayesian inference about the unknown quantities of our model using a specially tailored Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. We gain new insights about the processes, which determine transformations in visual acuity with respect to age, including the nature of joint changes in both eyes as modelled with the age‐related copula dependence parameter. We analyse posterior predictive distributions to identify children with unusual sight characteristics, distinguishing those who are bivariate, but not univariate outliers. In this way, we provide an innovative tool that enables clinicians to identify children with unusual sight who may otherwise be missed. We compare our simultaneous Bayesian method with a two‐step frequentist generalised additive modelling approach.
Electrochemical behaviors and influence factors of copper and copper alloys cathode for electrocatalytic nitrate removal
Authors: Zhang Lehua , Yin Di , Zhai Shengyong , Liu Yiyang , Dou Chen , Chen Peng , Huang Guangtuan
Published: May 2019

The electrocatalytic activities of a series of copper alloys, Cu/Ni/Zn (Cu60Ni15Zn25) and Cu/Zn (Cu62Zn38), toward the reduction of nitrate were investigated, in comparison with that of pure copper. Electrochemical analysis showed that the copper alloy electrode exhibited higher electrochemical reduction rate of nitrate. The extreme difference (R) between the orthogonal experiments revealed that the concentration was the main determinant of the removal percentage, followed by the current density and electrolyte concentration, while the impact of the initial pH was minimal. The conditions of the electrolysis experiments with Cu/Ni/Zn and Cu/Zn cathodes were optimized as follows: a current density of 8 mA/cm2, a NaCl concentration of 2.0 g/L, and an initial pH of 3.0. The nitrate reduction reaction process with copper alloy cathodes was confirmed by electrochemical analysis and electrolysis experiments. Therefore, copper alloyed with Zn and Ni is a feasible option for practical application to the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate.

Practitioner points

Alloy of Cu, Zn, and Ni improved electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction.

Electrochemical reduction of nitrate was confirmed in the presence of NaCl.

The optimized current density with copper alloy cathodes was 6 mA/cm2.

A feasible strategy was provided for the improving nitrate removal and minimizing by‐products.
mRNA methylation in cell senescence
Authors: Casella Gabriel , Tsitsipatis Dimitrios , Abdelmohsen Kotb , Gorospe Myriam
Published: May 2019

Cellular senescence, a developmental program central to normal aging and aging pathologies, is robustly regulated at the post‐transcriptional level. This regulation involves the interaction of RNA‐binding proteins and noncoding RNAs with senescence‐associated messenger RNAs (mRNAs). There is increasing evidence that these associations are modulated by chemical modifications of specific mRNA nucleotides which can enhance or reduce the binding of regulatory factors. Recent technological advances in mass spectrometry, next‐generation sequencing, and genome mapping have improved markedly the detection of mRNA modifications. Given the rising interest in the epitranscriptomic control of gene expression in aging, we discuss our incipient understanding of the chemical mRNA modifications, specifically m6A and m5C, that influence cellular senescence.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification
Proton decay in flux compactifications
Authors: Buchmuller Wilfried , Patel Ketan M.
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We study proton decay in a six-dimensional orbifold GUT model with gauge group SO(10)×U(1)
A
. Magnetic U(1)
A
flux in the compact dimensions determines the multiplicity of quark-lepton generations, and it also breaks supersymmetry by giving universal GUT scale masses to scalar quarks and leptons. The model can successfully account for quark and lepton masses and mixings. Our analysis of proton decay leads to the conclusion that the proton lifetime must be close to the current experimental lower bound. Moreover, we find that the branching ratios for the decay channels p → e
+
π
0 and p → μ
+
π
0 are of similar size, in fact the latter one can even be dominant. This is due to flavour non-diagonal couplings of heavy vector bosons together with large off-diagonal Higgs couplings, which appears to be a generic feature of flux compactifications.
6d SCFTs, 5d dualities and Tao web diagrams
Authors: Hayashi Hirotaka , Kim Sung-Soo , Lee Kimyeong , Yagi Futoshi
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We propose 5d descriptions of 6d

$$ \mathcal{N}=\left(1,\ 0\right) $$

N
=

1
,

0

superconformal field theories arising from Type IIA brane configurations with an O8−-plane. We T-dualize the brane diagram along a compactification circle and obtain a 5-brane web diagram with two O7−- planes. The gauge theory description of the resulting 5d theory for a given 6d superconformal field theory is not unique, and we argue that the non-uniqueness leads to various dual 5d gauge theories. There are three sources which lead to the 5d dualities. One type comes from either resolving both or one of the two O7−-planes. The two situations give us two different ways to read off a 5d gauge theory from essentially the same web diagram. The second type originates from different distributions of D5 or D7-branes, shifting the gauge group ranks of the 5d quiver theory. The last one comes from the 90 or 45 degree rotations of the 5-brane web diagram, which is a part of the SL(2, ℤ) duality of Type IIB string theory, leading to completely different group structure. These lead to a very rich class of dualities between 5d gauge theories whose UV completion is the same 6d superconformal field theory. We also explore Higgsing of the 6d theories and their 5d counterparts. Decoupling the same flavors from the dual 5d theories gives rise to another dual 5d theories whose UV completion is the same 5d superconformal field theory. Finally we propose the 6d description of 5d theories which is obtained by a generalization of 5d T

N
theories with additional flavors, which turns out not to be in the class of Type IIA brane construction generically.
Localisation in 2+1 dimensional SU(3) pure gauge theory at finite temperature
Authors: Giordano Matteo
Published: May 2019

Abstract

I study the localisation properties of low Dirac eigenmodes in 2+1 dimensional SU(3) pure gauge theory, both in the low-temperature, confined and chirally-broken phase and in the high-temperature, deconfined and chirally-restored phase, by means of numerical lattice simulations. While these modes are delocalised at low temperature, they become localised at high temperature, up to a critical point in the Dirac spectrum where a BKTtype Anderson transition takes place. All results point to localisation appearing at the deconfinement temperature, and support previous expectations about the close relation between deconfinement, chiral symmetry breaking, and localisation.
Worldwide literature on epidemiology of human alveolar echinococcosis: a systematic review of research published in the twenty-first century
Authors: Baumann Sven , Shi Rong , Liu Wenya , Bao Haihua , Schmidberger Julian , Kratzer Wolfgang , Li Weixia ,   the interdisciplinary Echinococcosis Working Group Ulm, Barth Thomas F. E. , Baumann Sven , Bloehdorn Johannes , Fischer Iris , Graeter Tilmann , Graf Natalja , Gruener Beate , Henne-Bruns Doris , Hillenbrand Andreas , Kaltenbach Tanja , Kern Peter , Kern Petra , Klein Katharina , Kratzer Wolfgang , Ehteshami Niloofar , Schlingeloff Patrycja , Schmidberger Julian , Shi Rong , Staehelin Yael , Theis Frauke , Verbitskiy Daniil , Zarour Ghaith
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Human alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a potentially lethal zoonosis caused by the cestodeEchinococcus multilocularis. The aim of this systematic review is to establish a comprehensive global AE literature overview taking into account the epidemiologically relevant AE research of the twenty-first century.

Methods

We systematically searched the global literature published from 2001 through 2018 via MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Russian databases eLIBRARY.RU, CyberLeninka, the Chinese databases CNKI, VIP, Journals.research.ac.ir (Farsi language-based), Jordan E-Library (Arab language-based) and supplementary Google Scholar, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. QGIS software was used for the mapping of the affected countries.

Results

We have listed 154 relevant publications in the final literature synopsis in consideration of our quality assessment. Including non-autochthonous cases, human AE was reported in 36 countries within the northern hemisphere from 2001 to 2018. The first publication of AE in Tajikistan, Pakistan, South Korea, Belgium, the Netherlands, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia, Slovenia and Morocco occurred in this century; further first cases in Taiwan, Thailand, and Denmark were considered to be non-autochthonous by the authors. The highest total case numbers (n ≥ 100 in a single article) were reported in France, Germany, Switzerland, Poland, and Lithuania, including China and Kyrgyzstan with by far the highest prevalence figures.

Conclusions

Our paper emphasises the increasing spread of reported cases and the rise in its numbers in the literature of the twenty-first century, especially in western, northern and eastern Europe, as well as in central Asia. Epidemiological studies on human infections are lacking in many parts of the world.
Medical Students Indicate the Need for Increased Sexuality Education at an Austrian Medical University
Authors: Komlenac Nikola , Siller Heidi , Hochleitner Margarethe
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The quantity and quality of education in the field of human sexuality vary greatly in medical education programs in the United States and Europe.

Aim

The current state of medical school education with regard to human sexuality was assessed at an Austrian medical university.

Methods

Self-constructed questionnaires and the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale were filled out by 391 medical students (mean age = 24.0, SD = 2.5; 52.4% women, 47.6% men). Descriptive statistics are reported for summarizing students’ responses, and structural equation models were calculated to reveal associations between variables of interest.

Main Outcome Measures

The outcome variable in the structural equation models was students’ confidence in addressing sexual health concerns of patients.

Results

Most students were not instructed in sexual history taking (96.9%), sexual behavior (94.3%), love (97.4%) or sexuality in elderly persons (95.1%), and they reported having poor knowledge of these topics. Most students (72.5%) reported having little or no confidence in addressing patients’ sexual health concerns. The number of addressed topics was positively associated with male (β = 0.47, P < .001) and female students’ (β = 0.52, P < .001) knowledge. Knowledge was positively associated with male (β = .49, P < 0.001) and female students’ (β = 0.33, P < .001) confidence in addressing sexual health concerns and was negatively associated with stereotypical sexual functioning beliefs in the male subsample (β = −0.26, P = .009).

Conclusions

Most medical students revealed that the teaching of important sexual health content (eg, sexual history taking) was deficient at this medical university. Education in sexual health issues needs to be increased to positively influence students’ knowledge of and consequently their confidence regarding dealing with patients’ sexual health concerns.
Seismic observations of crevasse growth following rain-induced glacier acceleration, Haupapa/Tasman Glacier, New Zealand
Authors: Taylor-Offord Samuel , Horgan Huw , Townend John , Winberry J. Paul
Published: May 2019

Changing rates of water input can affect both the flow of glaciers and ice sheets and their propensity to crevasse. Here we examine geodetic and seismic observations during two substantial (10–18-times background velocity) rain-induced glacier accelerations at Haupapa/Tasman Glacier, New Zealand. Changes in rain rate result in glacier acceleration and associated uplift, which propagate down-glacier. This pattern of acceleration results in a change to the strain rate field, which correlates with an order of magnitude increase in the apparent seismicity rate and an overall down-glacier migration in located seismicity. After each acceleration event the apparent seismicity rate decreases to below the pre-acceleration rate for 3 days. This suggests that seismic events associated with surface crevasse growth occur early during phases of glacier acceleration due to elevated extensional stresses, and then do not occur again until stresses recover.
Worker Power, Trade Union Strategy, and International Connections: Dockworker Unionism in Colombia and Chile
Authors: Fox-Hodess Katy
Published: May 2019

This article analyzes the constitution of dockworkers’ power and its impact on trade union strategy in recent labor disputes in Chile and Colombia. Dockworkers’ strategic location in the economies of both countries would predict a high degree of shop-floor power among both groups. In practice, however, Colombian dock-workers had far less shop-floor power than their Chilean counterparts, as a result of mitigating social and political factors. Consequently, they developed a strategy this study terms human rights unionism, relying on external allies and lawsuits for leverage, rather than shop-floor action. Dockworkers in Chile, by contrast, adopted a strategy termed class struggle unionism, relying on nationally and internationally coordinated shop-floor action. This article therefore proposes an expanded model of workers’ structural power, incorporating the roles of state and society to better account for power differentials and divergent strategic pathways among workers who share a common position in the economic system.
Are election results more unpredictable? A forecasting test
Authors: Nadeau Richard , Dassonneville Ruth , Lewis-Beck Michael S. , Mongrain Philippe
Published: May 2019

Changes in voters' behavior and in the campaign strategies that political parties pursue are likely to have increased the importance of campaigns on voters' electoral choices. As a result, scholars increasingly question the usefulness and predictive power of structural forecasting models, that use information from “fundamental” variables to make an election prediction several months before Election Day. In this paper, we empirically examine the expectation that structural forecasting models are increasingly error-prone. For doing so, we apply a structural forecasting model to predict elections in six established democracies. We then trace the predictive power of this model over time. Surprisingly, our results do not give the slightest indication of a decline in the predictive power of structural forecasting models. By showing that information on long-term factors still allows making accurate predictions of electoral outcomes, we question the assumption that campaigns matter more now than they did in the past.
Three-Dimensional Wall Jet Originating from a Circular Orifice
Authors: Newman B G , Patel R P , Savage S B , Tjio H K
Published: May 2019

An incompressible three-dimensional turbulent wall jet originating from a circular orifice located adjacent to a plane wall is studied both theoretically and experimentally. An approximate similarity analysis predicts that the two transverse length scales,l0and L0, and the inverse of the mean velocity scale grow linearly with distance downstream x from the orifice. Experimental measurements of mean velocity and longitudinal turbulence intensity profiles were made both in air and water with hot-wire and hot-film anemometers respectively. The behaviour predicted by the similarity analysis was verified. It was found that the rate of growth of the length scale normal to the plane wall, dl0/dx, was somewhat less than that found for a two-dimensional wall jet, whereas the rate of growth of the length scale in the lateral direction, dL0/dx, was about seven times greater than dl0/dx.
An Investigation of the Flow around Rectangular Cylinders
Authors: Bearman P W , Trueman D M
Published: May 2019

Measurements are presented of the base pressure coefficient, drag coefficient and Strouhal number of rectangular cylinders. The results confirm a finding in Japan that the drag coefficient rises to nearly 3 when the depth of the section is just over half the width. The flow around the sections is found to be strongly influenced by the presence of the trailing-edge corners.
A Three-Dimensional Analysis of Rotor Wakes
Authors: Whitfield C E , Kelly J C , Barry B
Published: May 2019

Many investigators have studied the aerodynamics of axial flow turbomachinery but none has produced a complete map of the three-dimensional flow behind a rotor row. This is of considerable interest to the aero-acoustician. A system is described which uses a constant temperature hot-wire anemometer to analyse the flow behind such a rotor. Although much information may be extracted by using the technique, its interpretation depends to a large extent on its form of presentation. An analysis of the flow behind a research fan is used as a means of discussing various forms of visual presentation.
The Lift on a Wing in a Turbulent Flow
Authors: Jackson R , Graham J M R , Maull D J
Published: May 2019

Experiments are described in which the lift on a rectangular element of a two-dimensional wing and on a finite aspect ratio wing has been measured in grid turbulence. By measuring the spectrum of the lift and the spectrum of the turbulence upwash component, an experimental value for the turbulent admittance may be found. This is compared with a calculated value based upon linearised theory.
Professional Conduct and Practice
Authors: Purchase H. F.
Published: May 2019

The Council of the Institute has for some time thought it would be advisable that members should have the opportunity of discussing the difficult problems of professional conduct and practice at a sessional meeting, particularly since the report on the subject by the Monopolies Commission (A report on the general effect on the public interest of certain restrictive practices so far as they prevail in relation to the supply of professional services. Cmnd. 4463). Hence this present paper.

Although the paper has been written by the present Chairman of the Institute's Professional Guidance Committee, and the main arguments are in general line with the views of that committee and of Council, the emphasis given to various points and the views on the detailed contents must be regarded as personal to the author.
Actuarial Aspects of Long-Term Sickness Insurance
Authors: Hamilton-Jones J.
Published: May 2019

The development of sickness insurance of the type dealt with in this paper has been a long process, commencing in a tentative fashion, probably a century ago, in Europe. In 1900, E. Hamza, at that time actuary of a Russian insurance company, contributed to the Third International Congress a paper of interesting historical significance which is clearly based on long experience in Germany. In his paper he developed an approach fundamentally different from the traditional British approach. British methods—which can be described with complete adequacy at this stage as a continuation of Friendly Society actuarial technique—have stood the test of time for at least 150 years and it is the purpose of this paper to analyse the two lines of development; to pose the question of their efficacy in the future; and to outline alternative methods depending on modern mathematical techniques.
Note on Determination of Premium Rates for Motor Vehicles (Third Party Risks) Insurance in New Zealand
Authors: Eriksen J. E. , Jones E. J.
Published: May 2019

The authors have advised on the level of motor vehicle (third party risks) insurance rates of premium in the circumstances under which that business is written in New Zealand and this paper records the approach taken. It has been prepared in the hope that, as no difficult mathematics are involved, the basic ideas may appeal both to actuaries and to persons other than actuaries who are interested in the transaction of non-life insurance. They are relevant not merely to third party motor insurance but also to non-life insurance generally in a situation where insurance is compulsory and the rates of premium are centrally controlled. In those circumstances more sophisticated techniques of deriving premium rates are less necessary.
On the Settlement of Disputes About the Christian Holy Places
Authors: Zander Walter
Published: May 2019

Disputes about the Christian Holy Places have played a major part in the history of the Middle East and indeed of Europe for many centuries. The main issues of these conflicts are still unsolved, and the fact that the Sanctuaries are now under the control of the State of Israel has added a new dimension to the problems.

This study tries to investigate the question of the jurisdiction over the Christian Sanctuaries as it presents itself today. It does not deal with the Holy Places of Judaism and Islam since their treatment, in spite of many common elements, requires different considerations.

The disputes about the Christian Holy Places are essentially disputes among Christian communities, and not, as might be assumed, controversies between Christians on one side and members of other religions—Moslems or Jews—or the government of the country, on the other. They spring ultimately from the divisions of the Church; and although political and national interests frequently played a part, they must be seen first and foremost in the context of the religious issues involved.
English Catholic Charity and the Irish Poor in London: Part II (1840–1870)
Authors: Gilley Sheridan
Published: May 2019

A coarse logic rules throughout all English souls; if you have merit, can you not show it by your good clothes, and coach and horses? How can a man be a gentleman without a pipe of wine? … They are under the Jewish law, and read with sonorous emphasis that their days shall be long in the land, they shall have sons and daughters, flocks and herds, wine and oil. In exact proportion, is the reproach of poverty . … The last term of insult is, ‘a beggar’. Nelson said, ‘The want of fortune is a crime I can never get over!’ Sydney Smith said, ‘Poverty is infamous in England’. And one of their recent writers speaks, in reference to a private and scholastic life, of ‘the grave moral deterioration which follows an empty exchequer.’ … The two disgraces are … first, disloyalty to Church and State, and second, to be born poor.
Early Root and Shoot Development of Nine Plant Species
Authors: Evetts L. L. , Burnside O. C.
Published: May 2019

The root growth rate index of velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrastiMedic.) was significantly greater than that of five other weed species. The root growth rate index of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench ‘RS-626’] was found to be significantly higher than that of soybeans [Glycine max(L.) Merr. ‘Ford’]. Shoot growth rate indexes of three perennial broadleaf species studied were significantly lower than shoot growth rate indexes of six annual species. Root weights of perennial broadleaf species were not significantly different from root weights of velvetleaf and soybeans. Soybeans were found to have a significantly higher shoot to root ratio than seven weed species but not higher than sorghum. All other species had larger leaf weights and leaf areas than the three broadleaf perennials. While there were significant differences in leaf weights among six species, there were no significant differences in leaf area. Seed weight was not significantly correlated with emergence rate index and root weight but was correlated to all other factors studied. Emergence rate index was correlated with root growth rate index but not with shoot growth rate index.