bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of surface energy fluxes in the permafrost region of the Tibetan Plateau based on in situ measurements and the surface energy balance system model
Authors: Yao Jimin , Gu Lianglei , Yang Cheng , Chen Hao , Wang Jiemin , Ding Yongjian , Li Ren , Zhao Lin , Xiao Yao , Qiao Yongping , Shi Jianzong , Chen Caiping
Published: March 2020

The surface energy balance is a key issue in land surface process research and important for studies of climate and hydrology. In this paper, the surface energy fluxes (net radiation, ground heat flux, sensible heat flux and latent heat flux) at the Tanggula (TGL) and Xidatan (XDT) sites were measured and the distributions of the regional surface energy fluxes on the Tibetan Plateau were obtained using a revised surface energy balance system (SEBS) model. The results show that the surface energy fluxes have obvious seasonal variations. At both sites, the sensible heat flux is highest in spring and lowest in summer, and the latent heat flux is highest in summer and lowest in winter. The high elevation, snow cover, freeze–thaw process, precipitation, vegetation and soil texture are important influencing factors for land surface energy fluxes. The time‐phase difference between the net radiation and ground heat flux for bare soils is estimated to be 2–3 hr. The ratio of ground heat flux and net radiation ranged from approximately 0.18 to 0.33, and a parameterization scheme for the remote sensing of ground heat flux over the Tibetan Plateau bare soil in summer is developed. The simulation results of the regional surface energy fluxes show that the distributions of surface parameters, such as vegetation, soil texture and soil moisture content, are important for understanding regional changes in the surface energy fluxes.
A Novel Laryngoscope With an Adjustable Distal Tip
Authors: Honeybrook Adam , Lee Walter , Cohen Seth
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Various laryngoscopes are currently available for supraglottic, glottic, and cervical esophageal exposure, yet none allow for adjustable articulation of the laryngoscope distal tip. We sought to create a new laryngoscope to improve anatomic field of view exposure.

Study Design

Novel laryngoscope device validation study.

Materials and Methods

Three‐dimensional printed plastic and titanium prototype designs were created using Solidworks. Validation testing was performed in a cadaveric model. Optimal exposure of the cadaveric larynx and supraglottis was determined by ensuring the endoscope tip was exactly 2.5 cm from the level of the vocal cords. The prototype exposure (22‐cm adjustable tip laryngoscope) was compared to the Weerda (18‐cm distending laryngoscope) and Dedo (18‐cm operating laryngoscope) laryngoscope exposures. Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (L) exposure measurements were obtained from analysis of endoscopic images. Objective millimeter quantification was performed by pixel calibration to the known width of the vocal cord.

Results

The prototype provided 77.3‐mm AP and 40.6‐mm L exposure of the cadaveric larynx and supraglottis. These measurements were then compared to the exposure provided by the Weerda (49.9‐mm AP, 40.4‐mm L) and Dedo (15.7‐mm AP, 18.6‐mm L) laryngoscopes. The investigators found the prototype had similar handling characteristics to the Weerda laryngoscope and laryngeal instrumentation was enhanced due to a wider field of view.

Conclusion

This novel laryngoscope with an adjustable distal tip provides improved exposure of the supraglottis and glottis in a cadaveric study and has the potential to be used for both supraglottic/glottic and proximal esophageal procedures.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 2020
Neuromonitored Thyroid Surgery: Optimal Stimulation Based on Intraoperative EMG Response Features
Authors: Abt Nicholas B. , Puram Sidharth V. , Kamani Dipti , Modi Rahul , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To evaluate/compare normative electrophysiologic electromyography (EMG) response characteristics of recurrent laryngeal, vagus, and external branch of superior laryngeal nerve evoked with different stimulators used in neuromonitored thyroid surgery.

Study Design

Prospective crossover study

Methods

EMG responses obtained via endotracheal tube surface electrodes in 11 patients undergoing thyroid surgery were recorded when stimulated with four stimulators: two monopolar (Prass standard and ball tip), one bipolar, and one dissecting instrument. Normative mean EMG results including latency, amplitude, threshold, saturation currents, and distance‐sensitivity were compared.

Results

The Prass standard stimulator had shorter latency time when nerve was not covered with fascia (P = .04). The bipolar, dissecting instrument, and ball tip demonstrated similar latency times with and without nerve fascia. Pooled mean latency increased significantly from 1.86 ms to 2.16 ms when comparing nerves without fascia and nerves with fascia (P < .05). The Prass standard monopolar stimulator had the lowest mean threshold at 0.40 mA, with the dissecting instrument having the highest threshold at 0.89 mA for dissected nerve. Pooled mean threshold and saturation increased from 0.6 mA to 1.7 mA (P < .0001) and 1.57 mA to 4.15 mA (P < .001) with fascia covering nerve, respectively. The mean depolarization rate was 100% for monopolar and bipolar electrodes and 81% for dissecting instrument at 1 mA. Only 9% of monopolar electrodes generated an EMG response when stimulated from 2 mm away.

Conclusion

Monopolar stimulators are more sensitive for neural mapping, whereas bipolar instruments are more specific, thus reducing false positive stimulation. Dissecting instruments share many features of monopolar stimulators while being more specific, and thus are a viable alternative.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 2020
Rethinking phosphorus–chlorophyll relationships in lakes
Authors: Yuan Lester L. , Jones John R.
Published: March 2020

The empirical relationship between total phosphorus and chlorophyll has guided lake management decisions for decades, but imprecision in this relationship in individual lakes limits the utility of these models. Many environmental factors that potentially affect the total phosphorus‐chlorophyll relationship have been studied, but here we hypothesize that imprecision can be reduced by considering differences in the proportions of phosphorus bound to three different “compartments” in the water column: phosphorus bound in phytoplankton, phosphorus bound to suspended sediment that is not associated with phytoplankton, and dissolved phosphorus. We specify a hierarchical Bayesian network model that estimates phosphorus associated with each compartment using field measurements of chlorophyll, total suspended solids, and total phosphorus collected from reservoirs in Missouri, United States. We then demonstrate that accounting for these different compartments yields accurate predictions of total phosphorus in individual lakes. Results from this model also yield insights into the mechanisms by which lake morphometric and watershed characteristics affect observed relationships between total phosphorus and chlorophyll.
Novel Use of Non‐Invasive Devices and Microbiopsies to Assess Facial Skin Rejuvenation Following Laser Treatment
Authors: Kislevitz Mikaela , Lu Karen B. , Wamsley Christine , Hoopman John , Kenkel Jeffrey , Akgul Yucel
Published: March 2020

Background and Objective

Patient‐reported outcomes and blinded observer rating scales are subjective and unreliable but are extensively utilized to evaluate cosmetic office‐based treatments, including ablative lasers. This study aims to assess the practicality of using non‐invasive and minimally invasive methods for objective skin assessment following a skin rejuvenation treatment.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Twelve patients received a single 1,470/2,940 nm laser treatment for facial rejuvenation. Assessments were performed before treatment, and 7 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months post‐treatment. Images were taken with the VISIA Skin Analysis System to measure wrinkles, textures, pores, ultraviolet (UV) spots, brown spots, red areas, and porphyrins. Other non‐invasive skin measurements—high‐resolution ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography, transepidermal water loss and BTC 2000—were used to measure epidermal/dermal thickness, blood flow, surface roughness, wrinkle depth, attenuation coefficient, elasticity, laxity, and viscoelasticity. Microbiopsies (0.33 mm in diameter or the equivalent of a 23‐gauge needle) were collected for histology and gene expression of tissue rejuvenation.

Results

Significant improvement in facial skin aesthetics after laser treatment was recorded in UV spots, brown spots and pores after 3 weeks and in UV spots and brown spots after 3 months. The dermal attenuation coefficient decreased significantly at 3 weeks, while blood flow 0.5 to 0.7 mm below the skin surface increased significantly between 5 days and 3 weeks following treatment. Epidermal hyaluronic acid expression assessed by immunostaining and expression of inflammatory genes were elevated at 7 days post‐treatment compared with untreated or 3 months post‐treatment. There were no statistically significant changes in collagen or elastin‐related genes between groups at the studied parameters.

Conclusion

Non‐invasive devices can be effectively used to provide objective measurements of skin structure, pigmentation, blood flow, and elasticity to assess the efficacy of facial skin rejuvenation treatments. Furthermore, microbiopsies can objectively evaluate facial skin rejuvenation without scarring. Using non‐invasive skin imaging, a single treatment with the 1,470/2,940 nm laser was observed to be effective in improving skin appearance after 3 months, namely in reducing UV spots and brown spots, without significant changes in the tissue at the molecular level, as assessed by microbiopsy. Lasers Surg. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Physiological and gut microbiome changes associated with low dietary protein level in genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT,Oreochromis niloticus) determined by 16S rRNA sequence analysis
Authors: Zhu Hao‐jun , Qiang Jun , Tao Yi‐fan , Ngoepe Tlou Kevin , Bao Jing‐wen , Chen De‐ju , Xu Pao
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different dietary protein levels on the growth, physiological parameters, and gut microbiome of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT,Oreochromis niloticus). Two pellet feed diets with low (25%, LPD) and normal (35%, NPD) protein levels were fed to GIFT in aquaria at 28°C for 8 weeks. The LPD reduced trypsin activity and inhibited the growth of GIFT. The serum alanine amino transferase and aspartate transaminase activities, hepatic malondialdehyde content, and superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities were significantly higher in LPD GIFT than in NPD GIFT (p < .05). The LPD led to decreased lysozyme activity and increased levels of C3 (p < .05). A 16S rRNA gene profiling analysis showed that the LPD significantly affected the gut microbial composition. Compared with the NPD, the LPD significantly decreased intestinal microbial diversity (p < .05). The macronutrient distribution affected the taxonomic profile of gut bacteria, mainly the phyla Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria,and Firmicutes.The LPD favored growth of the genusBacteroides.The NPD appeared to increase the abundance of the generaLawsonia, Romboutsia,andSphingomonas. Our results showed that, compared with NPD GIFT, the LPD GIFT had weakened nonspecific immune function, altered microbial community structure, and decreased gut microbial diversity.
Improved velocity‐selective labeling pulses for myocardial ASL
Authors: Landes Vanessa , Javed Ahsan , Jao Terrence , Qin Qin , Nayak Krishna
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To develop and evaluate an improved velocity‐selective (VS) labeling pulse for myocardial arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging that addresses two limitations of current pulses: (1) spurious labeling of moving myocardium and (2) low labeling efficiency.

Methods

The proposed myocardial VSASL labeling pulse is designed using a Fourier Transform based Velocity‐Selective labeling pulse train. The pulse utilizes bipolar velocity‐encoding gradients, a 9‐tap velocity‐encoding envelope, and double‐refocusing pulses with Malcolm Levitt phase cycling. Amplitudes of the velocity‐encoding envelope were optimized to minimize the labeling of myocardial velocities during stable diastole (±2‐3 cm/s) and maximize the labeling of coronary velocities (10‐130 cm/s during rest/stress or 10‐70 cm/s during rest). Myocardial ASL experiments were performed in seven healthy subjects using the previously developed VS‐ASL protocol by Jao et al with the two proposed VS pulses and original VS pulse. Myocardial ASL experiments were also performed using FAIR ASL. Myocardial perfusion and physiological noise (PN) were evaluated and compared.

Results

Bloch simulations of the first and second proposed pulses show <2% labeling over ±3 cm/s and ±2 cm/s, respectively. Bloch simulations also show the mean labeling efficiency of arterial blood is 1.23 over the relevant coronary arterial ranges. In‐vivo VSASL experiments show the proposed pulses provided comparable measurements to FAIR ASL and reduced TSNR in 5 of 7 subjects compared to the original VS pulse.

Conclusion

We demonstrate an improved VS labeling pulse specifically for myocardial ASL perfusion imaging to reduce spurious labeling of moving myocardium and PN.
High‐resolution short‐T2 MRI using a high‐performance gradient
Authors: Froidevaux Romain , Weiger Markus , Rösler Manuela B. , Brunner David O. , Dietrich Benjamin E. , Reber Jonas , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To achieve high resolution in imaging of short‐T2 materials and tissues by using a high‐performance human‐sized gradient insert with strength up to 200 mT/m and 100% duty cycle.

Methods

Dedicated short‐T2 methodology and hardware are used, such as the pointwise encoding time reduction with radial acquisition (PETRA) technique with modulated excitation pulses, optimized radio‐frequency hardware, and a high‐performance gradient insert. A theoretical analysis of actual spatial resolution and SNR is provided to support the choice of scan parameters and interpretation of the results. Imaging is performed in resolution phantoms, animal specimen, and human volunteers at both conventional and maximum available gradient strengths and compared using image subtraction.

Results

Calculations suggest that increasing gradient strength beyond conventional values considerably improves both actual resolution and SNR efficiency in short‐T2 imaging. Resolution improvements are confirmed in all investigated samples, in particular 2 mm slots were resolved in a hard‐plastic plate with T2 ≈ 10 μs and in vivo musculoskeletal images were acquired at isotropic 200 μm resolution. Expected improvements in signal yield are realized in fine structures benefitting from high resolution but to less extent in regions of low contrast where decay‐related blurring leads to signal overlap between neighboring locations.

Conclusion

Strong gradients with high duty cycle enable short‐T2 imaging at unprecedentedly high resolution, holding the potential for improving MRI of, eg, bone, tendon, lung, or teeth. Moreover, it allows direct access of tissues with T2 of tens of microseconds such as myelin or collagen.
Medicated-Feed Intervention in Catfish Farming: An Economic Perspective
Authors: Kumar Ganesh , Gaunt Patricia
Published: March 2020

Catfish farmers manage several bacterial diseases on their farm operations. Among them, enteric septicemia of catfish (ESC) is the most widespread and economically significant disease. Farmers have limited ESC management choices, primarily through feed restriction or treatment with medicated feed (Aquaflor [florfenicol] or Romet [ormetoprim sulfadimethoxine]). However, the management of ESC on catfish farms has economic implications given the production losses associated with the feed restriction approach and the expense of medicated feeds. This relative economic study evaluated the economics of ESC management on commercial catfish operations using medicated feeds as opposed to the feed restriction approach. The relative economic benefit of disease management varied depending on the nature of the catfish production phase, degree of disease progression, and intensity of culture practices. This study provides economic justification for the use of medicated feeds as opposed to restricted feeding in the fingerling production phase, with net benefits ranging from US$1,600/acre to $1,800/acre. However, its use in food fish production should involve consideration of various factors, such as the market price of the fish and the foregone revenue along with production aspects, such as the size of the fish and the intensity of culture practices. The study underscores the economic importance of medicated feeds in the judicious management of bacterial diseases in catfish farming.
Lung function determinants and mortality of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis in South Africa 2007‐2016
Authors: Vandenbroucke Natalie J. , Zampoli Marco , Morrow Brenda
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is an important predictor of outcome in cystic fibrosis (CF). This study aimed to describe the change in lung function, nutritional status, and mortality of children with CF at a single center in Cape Town, South Africa, and identify factors associated with poor lung function and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of children aged between 5 and 18 years between January 2007 and December 2016. At least two separate best annual FEV1 measurements were required for inclusion in the study.

Results

A total of 143 children were followed up from which 107 study participants (median diagnosis age 5.5 months) were included. There was no statistically significant improvement from 2007 to 2016 in population mean FEV1 (2.5 ± 1.70 to −1.9 ± 1.70 [P = .1]) and body mass index (−0.7 ± 1.2 to −0.4 ± 1.2 [P = .3]) Z scores. FEV1 Z score declined by 0.17 per year. No significant correlation between FEV1 and age of diagnosis, sex, ethnicity, genotype, geographical location, pancreatic status, or infections was identified. On multiple stepwise regression analysis, FEV1 at age 6 was found to be the only independent predictor of mortality (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] 0.5 [0.3–0.8]; P = .005).

Conclusion

FEV1 at age 6 was an independent predictor for CF‐related mortality. Measurement of lung function in preschool children in SA with CF using more sensitive methods than spirometry is important to identify children at risk of poor outcomes.
Ethnomedicinal, phytochemical and pharmacological updates on Peppermint (Mentha × piperita L.)—A review
Authors: Mahendran Ganesan , Rahman Laiq‐Ur
Published: March 2020

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita L) is a perennial, glabrous and strongly scented herb belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is cultivated in a temperate region of Europe, Asia, United States, India and Mediterranean countries due to their commercial value and distinct aroma. In addition to traditional food flavouring uses, M. × piperita is well recognized for their traditional use to treat fever, cold, digestive, anti‐viral, anti‐fungal and oral mucosa and throat inflammation. The scientific studies provide awareness on the use of M. × piperita for biological effects such as anti‐oxidant, anti‐microbial, anti‐viral, anti‐inflammatory, biopesticidal, larvicidal, anticancer, radioprotective effect, genotoxicity and anti‐diabetic activity have been ascribed. A wide spectrum of bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolics lignans and stilbenes and essential oils are expected to be responsible for the aroma effects. In this sense, this present review provides an extensive overview of the traditional medicinal, phytochemical and multiple biological activities of this “Peppermint.”
Resveratrol protects mitochondrial quantity by activating SIRT1/PGC‐1α expression during ovarian hypoxia
Authors: Nishigaki Akemi , Kido Takeharu , Kida Naoko , Kakita‐Kobayashi Maiko , Tsubokura Hiroaki , Hisamatsu Yoji , Okada Hidetaka
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Resveratrol is a well‐known potent activator of sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1). We investigated the direct effects of hypoxia and resveratrol on SIRT1/ peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1α (PGC‐1α) pathways, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α, and mitochondrial quantity in a steroidogenic human ovarian granulosa‐like tumor cell line (KGN) cells.

Methods

KGN cells were cultured with cobalt chloride (CoCl2; a hypoxia‐mimicking agent) and/or resveratrol. The mRNA and protein levels, protein secretion, and intracellular localization were assessed by real‐time PCR, Western blot analysis, ELISA, and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Mitochondrial quantity was measured based on the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number.

Results

CoCl2 simultaneously attenuated the levels of SIRT1 and mtDNA expression, and induced the levels of VEGF protein production. In contrast, resveratrol significantly increased the levels of SIRT1 and mtDNA copy number, but reduced VEGF production in normoxia. Resveratrol could recover CoCl2‐suppressed SIRT1 and mtDNA expression and antagonize CoCl2‐induced VEGF production. CoCl2 treatment resulted in a downregulation of PGC‐1α expression, and this effect was recovered by resveratrol. Resveratrol significantly suppressed the production of the CoCl2‐induced HIF‐1α and VEGF proteins.

Conclusion

These results suggest that resveratrol improves mitochondrial quantity by activating the SIRT1/PGC‐1α pathway and inhibits VEGF induction through HIF‐1α under hypoxic conditions.
Nonsingular prescribed‐time stabilization of a class of uncertain nonlinear systems: A novel coordinate mapping method
Authors: Ding Chao , Shi Chao , Chen Yong
Published: March 2020

This article investigates the nonsingular prescribed‐time stabilization problem for p‐normal form systems. Two significant progresses are made for the first time as follows: First, a novel concept named coordinate mapping of time domain, is proposed to transform the nonsingular prescribed‐time convergence problem into the ordinary finite‐time convergence problem of transformed time‐varying system. Second, a set of new parameters are introduced to extend the existing adding a power integrator technique, such that the power restriction is removed. Based on above design procedure, a periodic controller is constructed to stabilize the state of the p‐normal form system into a small neighborhood of the equilibrium in prescribed time. Theoretical result is supported by numerical simulation.
Vertex nomination via seeded graph matching
Authors: Patsolic Heather G. , Park Youngser , Lyzinski Vince , Priebe Carey E.
Published: March 2020

Consider two networks on overlapping, nonidentical vertex sets. Given vertices of interest (VOIs) in the first network, we seek to identify the corresponding vertices, if any exist, in the second network. While in moderately sized networks graph matching methods can be applied directly to recover the missing correspondences, herein we present a principled methodology appropriate for situations in which the networks are too large/noisy for brute‐force graph matching. Our methodology identifies vertices in a local neighborhood of the VOIs in the first network that have verifiable corresponding vertices in the second network. Leveraging these known correspondences, referred to as seeds, we match the induced subgraphs in each network generated by the neighborhoods of these verified seeds, and rank the vertices of the second network in terms of the most likely matches to the original VOIs. We demonstrate the applicability of our methodology through simulations and real data examples.
Reconceptualizing nature‐of‐science education in the age of social media
Authors: Höttecke Dietmar , Allchin Douglas
Published: March 2020

Individuals are increasingly relying on social media as their primary source of scientific information. Science education needs to adapt. Nature of science (NOS) education is already widely accepted as essential to scientific literacy and to an informed public. We argue that NOS now needs to also include the NOS communication: its mediation, mechanisms, and manipulation. Namely, students need to learn about the epistemics of communicative practices, both within science (as a model) and in society. After profiling the current media landscape, we consider the implications of recent major studies on science communication for science education in the 21st century. We focus in particular on communicative patterns prominent in social media: algorithms to aggregate news, filter bubbles, echo chambers, spirals of silence, false‐consensus effects, fake news, and intentional disinformation. We claim that media literacy is now essential to a complete view of the NOS, or “Whole Science.” We portray that new content as an extension of viewing science as a system of specialized experts, with mutual epistemic dependence, and the social and communicative practices that establish trust and credibility.
Zeta‐Potential Read‐Across Model Utilizing Nanodescriptors Extracted via the NanoXtract Image Analysis Tool Available on the Enalos Nanoinformatics Cloud Platform
Authors: Varsou Dimitra‐Danai , Afantitis Antreas , Tsoumanis Andreas , Papadiamantis Anastasios , Valsami‐Jones Eugenia , Lynch Iseult , Melagraki Georgia
Published: March 2020

Zeta potential is one of the most critical properties of nanomaterials (NMs) which provides an estimation of the surface charge, and therefore electrostatic stability in medium and, in practical terms, influences the NM's tendency to form agglomerates and to interact with cellular membranes. This paper describes a robust and accurate read‐across model to predict NM zeta potential utilizing as the input data a set of image descriptors derived from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of the NMs. The image descriptors are calculated using NanoXtract (http://enaloscloud.novamechanics.com/EnalosWebApps/NanoXtract/), a unique online tool that generates 18 image descriptors from the TEM images, which can then be explored by modeling to identify those most predictive of NM behavior and biological effects. NM TEM images are used to develop a model for prediction of zeta potential based on grouping of the NMs according to their nearest neighbors. The model provides interesting insights regarding the most important similarity features between NMs—in addition to core composition the main elongation emerged, which links to key drivers of NM toxicity such as aspect ratio. Both the NanoXtract image analysis tool and the validated model for zeta potential (http://enaloscloud.novamechanics.com/EnalosWebApps/ZetaPotential/) are freely available online through the Enalos Nanoinformatics platform.
Bidirectional Regulation of Singlet Oxygen Generation from Luminescent Gold Nanoparticles through Surface Manipulation
Authors: Liu Lulu , Luo Xiaoxi , Liu Jinbin
Published: March 2020

Singlet oxygen (1O2) generation has been observed from ultrasmall luminescent gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), but regulation of 1O2 generation ability from the nanosized noble metals has remained challenging. Herein, the 1O2 generation ability of ultrasmall AuNPs (d ≈ 1.8 nm) is reported to be highly correlated to the surface factors including the amount of Au(I) species and surface charge. By taking the advantages of facile in situ PEGylation, it is discovered that a high amount of Au(I) species and surface charge results in strong ability in generation of 1O2, whereas a relative low amount of Au(I) species and surface charge leads to weak ability in 1O2 production. A feasible general strategy is then developed to controllably regulate the 1O2 generation efficiency of the AuNPs through facile ligand exchange with positively‐charged or negatively‐charged thiolated ligands. The AuNPs as nanophotosensitizer for 1O2 generation in the cellular level is also demonstrated to be highly controllable through surface ligand exchange with synergistical effects of 1O2 generation ability and subcellular distribution to lysosome or mitochondria. The strategy in the bidirectional regulation of 1O2 generation from ultrasmall AuNPs provides guidance for future design of nanosized metal nanomedicine toward specific disease diagnosis and treatment.
Zn2+ Pre‐Intercalation Stabilizes the Tunnel Structure of MnO2 Nanowires and Enables Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitor of Battery‐Level Energy Density
Authors: Chen Qiang , Jin Jialun , Kou Zongkui , Liao Cong , Liu Ziang , Zhou Liang , Wang John , Mai Liqiang
Published: March 2020

Although there has been tremendous progress in exploring new configurations of zinc‐ion hybrid supercapacitors (Zn‐HSCs) recently, the much lower energy density, especially the much lower areal energy density compared with that of the rechargeable battery, is still the bottleneck, which is impeding their wide applications in wearable devices. Herein, the pre‐intercalation of Zn2+ which gives rise to a highly stable tunnel structure of ZnxMnO2 in nanowire form that are grown on flexible carbon cloth with a disruptively large mass loading of 12 mg cm−2 is reported. More interestingly, the ZnxMnO2 nanowires of tunnel structure enable an ultrahigh areal energy density and power density, when they are employed as the cathode in Zn‐HSCs. The achieved areal capacitance of up to 1745.8 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2, and the remarkable areal energy density of 969.9 µWh cm−2 are comparable favorably with those of Zn‐ion batteries. When integrated into a quasi‐solid‐state device, they also endow outstanding mechanical flexibility. The truly battery‐level Zn‐HSCs are timely in filling up of the battery‐supercapacitor gap, and promise applications in the new generation flexible and wearable devices.
On variable selection in matrix mixture modelling
Authors: Wang Yang , Melnykov Volodymyr
Published: March 2020

Finite mixture models are widely used for cluster analysis, including clustering matrix data. Nowadays, high‐dimensional matrix observations arise in a variety of fields. It is known that irrelevant variables can severely affect the performance of clustering procedures. Therefore, it is important to develop algorithms capable of excluding irrelevant variables and focusing on informative attributes in order to achieve good clustering results. Several variable selection approaches have been proposed in the multivariate framework. We introduce and study a variable selection procedure that can be applied in the matrix‐variate context. The methodological developments are supported by several simulation studies and application to real‐life data sets, with good results.
Feasibility of using aluminum alloy bars as near‐surface mounted reinforcement for flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Xing Guohua , Chang Zhaoqun , Ozbulut Osman E.
Published: March 2020

Aluminum alloys (AAs) possess various advantageous properties such as good corrosion resistance and high ductility and have recently gained interest in strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This paper investigates the potential application of AA bars as the near‐surface mounted (NSM) reinforcement in flexure strengthening of RC beams. A total of seven RC beams including one reference specimen and six specimens strengthened with NSM AA bars were designed and loaded monotonically up to failure. The tensile steel reinforcement ratio, NSM reinforcement ratio, precracking load, and bonding area of NSM reinforcement were selected as the main test variables. Results suggest that both the flexural capacity and stiffness of the strengthened beams improved with the use of NSM AA bars compared to the reference beam, and all the strengthened concrete beams exhibited a ductile failure mode. Nevertheless, increases in flexural load carrying capacities were modest when the AA bars were used as NSM reinforcement. Furthermore, an analytical model, which combined the sectional analysis method and interfacial stress analysis model, was developed to predict the load versus mid‐span deflection relationship of the concrete beams strengthened with NSM AA bars. The developed model was also capable of predicting the load–strain relationships in AA reinforcement. Good agreements were achieved between the analytical results and experimental results.
Application of 5‐aminolevulinic acid‐photodynamic therapy in common skin diseases
Authors: Shi Lei , Liu Pei , Liu Jia , Yang Yuling , Chen Qi , Zhang Yunfeng , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Xiuli
Published: March 2020

5‐Aminolevulinic acid‐photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) is a relatively novel therapeutic technique that is used widely in dermatology. ALA can penetrate the stratum corneum into the skin and convert to the protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) to exert the photodynamic response. Due to its advantages of allowing repetitive application to multiple lesions, non‐trauma and excellent cosmetic results, ALA‐PDT is widely used for the treatment of actinic keratosis, moderate and severe acne, condyloma acuminate and other skin diseases showing a strong or promising effectiveness. However, pain is the main adverse reaction of ALA‐PDT. Daylight PDT (D‐PDT) and an optimized PDT may relieve the pain through the change of light source and therapeutic parameters. Both will be the tendency of the clinical application of ALA‐PDT.
Impact of different methods defining post‐stroke neurocognitive disorder: The Nor‐COAST study
Authors: Munthe‐Kaas Ragnhild , Aam Stina , Ihle‐Hansen Hege , Lydersen Stian , Knapskog Anne‐Brita , Wyller Torgeir Bruun , Fure Brynjar , Thingstad Pernille , Askim Torunn , Beyer Mona K. , Næss Halvor , Seljeseth Yngve M. , Ellekjær Hanne , Pendlebury Sarah T. , Saltvedt Ingvild
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Post‐stroke neurocognitive disorder (NCD) is common; prevalence varies between studies, partially related to lack of consensus on how to identify cases. The aim was to compare the prevalence of post‐stroke NCD using only cognitive assessment (model A), DSM‐5 criteria (model B), and the Global Deterioration Scale (model C) and to determine agreement among the three models.

Methods

In the Norwegian Cognitive Impairment After Stroke study, 599 patients were assessed 3 months after suffering a stroke.

Results

The prevalence of mild NCD varied from 174 (29%) in model B to 83 (14%) in model C; prevalence of major NCD varied from 249 (42%) in model A to 68 (11%) in model C. Cohen's kappa and Cohen's quadratic weighted kappa showed fair to very good agreement among models; the poorest agreement was found for identification of mild NCD.

Discussion

The findings indicate a need for international harmonization to classify post‐stroke NCD.
The Drosophila gut: A gatekeeper and coordinator of organism fitness and physiology
Authors: Colombani Julien , Andersen Ditte S.
Published: March 2020

Multicellular organisms have evolved organs and tissues with highly specialized tasks. For instance, nutrients are assimilated by the gut, sensed, processed, stored, and released by adipose tissues and liver to provide energy consumed by peripheral organ activities. The function of each organ is modified by local clues and systemic signals derived from other organs to ensure a coordinated response accommodating the physiological needs of the organism. The intestine, which represents one of the largest interfaces between the internal and external environment, plays a key role in sensing and relaying environmental inputs such as nutrients and microbial derivatives to other organs to produce systemic responses. In turn, gut physiology and immunity are regulated by multiple signals emanating from other organs including the brain and the adipose tissues. In this review, we highlight physiological processes where the gut serves as a key organ in coupling systemic signals or environmental cues with organism growth, metabolism, immune activity, aging, or behavior. Robust strategies involving intraorgan and interorgan signaling pathways have evolved to preserve gut size in homeostatic conditions and restrict growth during damage‐induced regenerative phases. Here we review some of the mechanisms that maintain gut size homeostasis and point out known examples of homeostasis‐breaking events that promote gut plasticity to accommodate changes in the external or internal environment.

This article is categorized under:

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Tissue Stem Cells and Niches

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Environmental Control of Stem Cells

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Regeneration
Erratum to: Logarithmic accuracy of parton showers: a fixed-order study
Authors: Dasgupta Mrinal , Dreyer Frédéric A. , Hamilton Keith , Monni Pier Francesco , Salam Gavin P.
Published: March 2020

The conclusions are unchanged.
$$ T\overline{T} $$-deformation and long range spin chains
Authors: Pozsgay Balázs , Jiang Yunfeng , Takács Gábor
Published: March 2020

Abstract

We point out that two classes of deformations of integrable models, developed completely independently, have deep connections and share the same algebraic origin. One class includes the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformation of 1+1 dimensional integrable quantum field theory and related solvable irrelevant deformations proposed recently. The other class is a specific type of long range integrable deformation of quantum spin chains introduced a decade ago, in the context of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super-Yang-Mills theory. We show that the detailed structures of the two deformations are formally identical and therefore share many features. Both deformations preserve integrability and lead to non-local deformed theories, resulting in a change of the corresponding factorized S-matrices. We also prove a factorisation formula for the expectation value of the operators which trigger the deformation on the lattice; similar results in quantum field theory play an essential role in the solvability of such deformations. We point out that the long range deformation is a natural counterpart of the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformation for integrable spin chains, and argue that this observation leads to interesting new avenues to explore.
Selbstberichtete Krebserkrankungen in der NAKO Gesundheitsstudie: Erfassungsmethoden und erste Ergebnisse
Authors: Nimptsch Katharina , Jaeschke Lina , Chang-Claude Jenny , Kaaks Rudolf , Katzke Verena , Michels Karin B. , Franzke Claus-Werner , Obi Nadia , Becher Heiko , Kuß Oliver , Schikowski Tamara , Schulze Matthias B. , Gastell Sylvia , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Schipf Sabine , Ahrens Wolfgang , Günther Kathrin , Krist Lilian , Keil Thomas , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Schmidt Börge , Brenner Hermann , Holleczek Bernd , Fischer Beate , Leitzmann Michael , Lieb Wolfgang , Berger Klaus , Krause Gérard , Löffler Markus , Schmidt-Pokrzywniak Andrea , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Linseisen Jakob , Greiser Karin Halina , Pischon Tobias
Published: March 2020

Hintergrund

In der NAKO Gesundheitsstudie liegen die Daten zu selbstberichteten Krebserkrankungen der ersten Hälfte der Teilnehmenden vor.

Ziel

Beschreibung der Methoden zur Erfassung selbstberichteter Krebserkrankungen und Tumorlokalisationen in der NAKO und Darstellung erster Ergebnisse.

Material und Methoden

In einem computergestützten, standardisierten persönlichen Interview wurden 101.787 Teilnehmende (54.526 Frauen, 47.261 Männer) gefragt, ob bei ihnen jemals eine Krebserkrankung (bösartiger Tumor einschließlich in situ) ärztlich diagnostiziert wurde und wie viele Krebserkrankungen sie hatten. Anhand einer Liste wurde die Tumorlokalisation erfragt. Absolute und relative Häufigkeiten von Selbstangaben zu Krebserkrankungen insgesamt und einzelnen Tumorlokalisationen wurden berechnet und mit krebsregisterbasierten Daten verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Eine ärztlich diagnostizierte Krebserkrankung wurde von 9,4 % der Frauen und 7,0 % der Männer berichtet. Von den Personen, die eine Krebserkrankung berichteten, gaben 88,3 % der Teilnehmenden an, nur eine Krebserkrankung gehabt zu haben. Bei Frauen war die häufigste bösartige Krebserkrankung Brustkrebs, gefolgt von Gebärmutterhalskrebs und malignem Melanom, bei Männern Prostatakrebs, gefolgt von malignem Melanom und Darmkrebs. Beim Vergleich der Krebserkrankungen, die von 45- bis 74-jährigen NAKO-Teilnehmenden in den letzten fünf Jahren berichtet wurden, mit krebsregisterbasierten 5‑Jahres-Prävalenzen wurden für die meisten Tumorlokalisationen in der NAKO niedrigere relative Häufigkeiten beobachtet. Vergleichsweise häufiger traten das maligne Melanom sowie Gebärmutterhalskrebs und Leberkrebs bei Frauen und Harnblasenkrebs und Brustkrebs bei Männern auf.

Diskussion

Die NAKO ist eine reichhaltige Datenbasis für die zukünftige Untersuchung inzidenter Krebserkrankungen.
Additive manufacturing of CuCr1Zr by development of a gas atomization and laser powder bed fusion routine
Authors: Jahns Katrin , Bappert Robin , Böhlke Peter , Krupp Ulrich
Published: March 2020

The research focuses on alloy design, powder production, and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of copper alloys. Copper and its alloys play a fundamental role for modern industrial applications due to their excellent thermal and electric conductivity in conjunction with considerable mechanical strength, for example, as welding electrodes and nozzles. By precipitation hardening, the hardness of low-alloyed copper, like CuCr1Zr, can be increased significantly. A combination of the geometry freedom of additive manufacturing with a tailor-made alloy design during powder production offers the opportunity to develop new alloy systems with a focus on the respective application. Experimental results regarding gas atomization, LPBF, property investigations, and property optimization of CuCr1Zr are presented. Powder particles and LPBF parts were analyzed with respect to phase and precipitate formation and compared to benchmark experiments of conventionally cast copper alloys. The microstructure differs significantly. Furthermore, the relative density of the LPBF parts reaches a value of 99.8%.
Prognostic risk classification for biochemical relapse-free survival in patients with oligorecurrent prostate cancer after [68Ga]PSMA-PET-guided metastasis-directed therapy
Authors: Vogel Marco M. E. , Kroeze Stephanie G. C. , Henkenberens Christoph , Schmidt-Hegemann Nina-Sophie , Kirste Simon , Becker Jessica , Burger Irene A. , Derlin Thorsten , Bartenstein Peter , Mix Michael , la Fougère Christian , Eiber Matthias , Christiansen Hans , Belka Claus , Grosu Anca L. , Müller Arndt-Christian , Guckenberger Matthias , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Since the success of prostate-specific membrane antigen-positron emission tomography (PSMA-PET) imaging for patients with oligorecurrent prostate cancer (ORPC), it is increasingly used for radiotherapy as metastasis-directed therapy (MDT). Therefore, we developed a prognostic risk classification for biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS) for patients after PSMA-PET-guided MDT after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

We analyzed 292 patients with local recurrence (LR) and/or pelvic lymph node (LN) lesions and/or up to five distant LN, bone (BM), or visceral metastases (VM) detected with [68Ga]PSMA-PET imaging. Median follow-up was 16 months (range 0–57). The primary endpoint was bRFS after MDT. Cox regression analysis for risk factors was incorporated into a recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) with classification and regression tree method.

Results

PSA at recurrence ≥ 0.8 ng/mL, BM, and VM was significantly associated with biochemical relapse. RPA showed five groups with tenfold cross-validation of 0.294 (SE 0.032). After building risk classes I to IV (p < 0.0001), mean bRFS was 36.3 months (95% CI 32.4–40.1) in class I (PSA < 0.8 ng/mL, no BM) and 25.8 months (95% CI 22.5–29.1) in class II (PSA ≥ 0.8 ng/mL, no BM, no VM). LR and/or pelvic LNs caused relapse in classes I and II. Mean bRFS was 16.0 months (95% CI 12.4–19.6) in class III (PSA irrelevant, present BM) and 5.7 months (95% CI 2.7–8.7) in class IV (PSA ≥ 0.8 ng/mL, no BM, present VM).

Conclusion

We developed and internally validated a risk classification for bRFS after PSMA-PET-guided MDT. Patients with PSA < 0.8 ng/mL and local relapse only (LR and/or pelvic LNs) had the most promising bRFS. PSA ≥ 0.8 ng/mL and local relapse only (LR and/or pelvic LNs) indicated intermediate risk for failure. Patients with BM were at higher risk regardless of the PSA. However, those patients still show satisfactory bRFS. In patients with VM, bRFS is heavily decreased. MDT in such cases should be discussed individually.
Factors Controlling Calanoid Copepod Biomass and Distribution in the Upper San Francisco Estuary and Implications for Managing the Imperiled Delta Smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus)
Authors: Hamilton Scott , Bartell Steve , Pierson James , Murphy Dennis
Published: March 2020

Delta smelt struggle to persist in a dramatically altered estuarine environment. Complex and incompletely understood relationships between food availability, environmental stressors, other components of the species’ habitat, and the abundance of delta smelt impede the effective management and recovery of the species. The empirical modeling presented in this study quantitatively describes spatial-temporal biomass values of calanoid copepods, a key prey item for delta smelt, in relation to multiple potential controlling factors. The results underscore the role that river flows through the estuary have in determining prey availability, and demonstrate contributions of water temperature, salinity, and macronutrients in determining copepod biomass. The analysis also shows the importance of non-native, invasive bivalves in determining copepod biomass. Importantly, the analysis describes spatial-temporal shifts in the relative importance of modeled covariates across sampling locations in the Delta. Model results indicate that increasing flows in the fall of wetter years adversely affected copepod biomass, while increases in flows in the spring of drier years provided regional increases in biomass. The results of this analysis can inform resource management decisions and contribute to a comprehensive model that can meaningfully guide efforts to recover the imperiled delta smelt.
Outcomes of Simultaneous Resection of Small Bowel Neuroendocrine Tumors with Synchronous Liver Metastases
Authors: Addeo Pietro , Bertin Jean‐Baptiste , Imperiale Alessio , Averous Gerlinde , Terrone Alfonso , Goichot Bernard , Bachellier Philippe
Published: March 2020

Background

This study evaluated the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of synchronous resection of liver metastases (LM) from small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SB‐NET).

Methods

A retrospective review of patients undergoing resection for LMs from SB‐NETs from January 1997 and December 2018 was performed.

Results

There were 44 patients with synchronous SB‐NET and LMs. Perioperative and 90‐day mortality values were zero, and the morbidity rate was 27%. The median overall survival (OS) was 128.4 months (CI 95% 74.0–161.5 months) with 1‐, 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year survival rates of 100%, 83%, 79%, and 60%, respectively. Not achieving surgical treatment for LM was the unique independent factor for survival (HR 6.50; CI 95% 1.54–27.28; p = 0.01) in patients with unresected LMs having OS and 10‐year survival rates (42 months, 33%) versus patients undergoing liver resection (152 months, 66%)(p = 0.0008). The recurrence rate was 81.8% and associated with longer OS and 5‐year survival rates when limited to the liver [223 months (61%) vs 94 months (87%)].

Conclusions

Simultaneous resection of SB‐NETs with synchronous LMs was safe and associated with considerable long‐term survival even in the presence of bilobar disease. However, recurrence after resection was common (81%) but associated with longer survival rates when limited to the liver.