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| 2. |
- Glasbey, JC, et al.
(author)
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- 2021
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swepub:Mat__t
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| 8. |
- Jencson, Jacob E., et al.
(author)
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AT 2019qyl in NGC 300 : Internal Collisions in the Early Outflow from a Very Fast Nova in a Symbiotic Binary
- 2021
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In: Astrophysical Journal. - : American Astronomical Society. - 0004-637X .- 1538-4357. ; 920:2
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Nova eruptions, thermonuclear explosions on the surfaces of white dwarfs (WDs), are now recognized to be among the most common shock-powered astrophysical transients. We present the early discovery and rapid ultraviolet (UV), optical, and infrared (IR) temporal development of AT 2019qyl, a recent nova in the nearby Sculptor Group galaxy NGC 300. The light curve shows a rapid rise lasting ≲1 day, reaching a peak absolute magnitude of MV = −9.2 mag and a very fast decline, fading by 2 mag over 3.5 days. A steep dropoff in the light curves after 71 days and the rapid decline timescale suggest a low-mass ejection from a massive WD with MWD ≳ 1.2 M⊙. We present an unprecedented view of the early spectroscopic evolution of such an event. Three spectra prior to the peak reveal a complex, multicomponent outflow giving rise to internal collisions and shocks in the ejecta of an He/N-class nova. We identify a coincident IR-variable counterpart in the extensive preeruption coverage of the transient location and infer the presence of a symbiotic progenitor system with an O-rich asymptotic-giant-branch donor star, as well as evidence for an earlier UV-bright outburst in 2014. We suggest that AT 2019qyl is analogous to the subset of Galactic recurrent novae with red-giant companions such as RS Oph and other embedded nova systems like V407 Cyg. Our observations provide new evidence that internal shocks between multiple, distinct outflow components likely contribute to the generation of the shock-powered emission from such systems.
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| 9. |
- Allen, K. D., et al.
(author)
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Osteoarthritis: Models for appropriate care across the disease continuum
- 2016
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In: Best Practice and Research: Clinical Rheumatology. - : Elsevier BV. - 1521-6942. ; 30:3, s. 503-535
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide. Despite the existence of evidence-based treatments and guidelines, substantial gaps remain in the quality of OA management. There is underutilization of behavioral and rehabilitative strategies to prevent and treat OA as well as a lack of processes to tailor treatment selection according to patient characteristics and preferences. There are emerging efforts in multiple countries to implement models of OA care, particularly focused on improving nonsurgical management. Although these programs vary in content and setting, key lessons learned include the importance of support from all stakeholders, consistent program delivery and tools, a coherent team to run the program, and a defined plan for outcome assessment. Efforts are still needed to develop, deliver, and evaluate models of care across the spectrum of OA, from prevention through end-stage disease, in order to improve care for this highly prevalent global condition. © 2016
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| 10. |
- Boguszewski, M. C. S., et al.
(author)
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Safety of growth hormone replacement in survivors of cancer and intracranial and pituitary tumours: a consensus statement
- 2022
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0804-4643 .- 1479-683X. ; 186:6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Growth hormone (GH) has been used for over 35 years, and its safety and efficacy has been studied extensively. Experimental studies showing the permissive role of GH/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I) in carcinogenesis have raised concerns regarding the safety of GH replacement in children and adults who have received treatment for cancer and those with intracranial and pituitary tumours. A consensus statement was produced to guide decision-making on GH replacement in children and adult survivors of cancer, in those treated for intracranial and pituitary tumours and in patients with increased cancer risk. With the support of the European Society of Endocrinology, the Growth Hormone Research Society convened a Workshop, where 55 international key opinion leaders representing 10 professional societies were invited to participate. This consensus statement utilized: (1) a critical review paper produced before the Workshop, (2) five plenary talks, (3) evidence-based comments from four breakout groups, and (4) discussions during report-back sessions. Current evidence reviewed from the proceedings from the Workshop does not support an association between GH replacement and primary tumour or cancer recurrence. The effect of GH replacement on secondary neoplasia risk is minor compared to host- and tumour treatment-related factors. There is no evidence for an association between GH replacement and increased mortality from cancer amongst GH-deficient childhood cancer survivors. Patients with pituitary tumour or craniopharyngioma remnants receiving GH replacement do not need to be treated or monitored differently than those not receiving GH. GH replacement might be considered in GH-deficient adult cancer survivors in remission after careful individual risk/benefit analysis. In children with cancer predisposition syndromes, GH treatment is generally contraindicated but may be considered cautiously in select patients.
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| 11. |
- Ho, Anna Y. Q., et al.
(author)
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Evidence for Late-stage Eruptive Mass Loss in the Progenitor to SN2018gep, a Broad-lined Ic Supernova : Pre-explosion Emission and a Rapidly Rising Luminous Transient
- 2019
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In: Astrophysical Journal. - : American Astronomical Society. - 0004-637X .- 1538-4357. ; 887:2
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We present detailed observations of ZTF18abukavn (SN2018gep), discovered in high-cadence data from the Zwicky Transient Facility as a rapidly rising (1.4 +/- 0.1 mag hr(-1)) and luminous (M-g,M- peak = -20 mag) transient. It is spectroscopically classified as a broad-lined stripped-envelope supernova (Ic-BL SN). The high peak luminosity (L-bol greater than or similar to 3 x 10(44) erg s(-1)), the short rise time (t(rise) = 3 days in g band), and the blue colors at peak (g-r similar to -0.4) all resemble the high-redshift Ic-BL iPTF16asu, as well as several other unclassified fast transients. The early discovery of SN2018gep (within an hour of shock breakout) enabled an intensive spectroscopic campaign, including the highest-temperature (T-eff greater than or similar to 40,000 K) spectra of a stripped-envelope SN. A retrospective search revealed luminous (M-g similar to M-r approximate to -14 mag) emission in the days to weeks before explosion, the first definitive detection of precursor emission for a Ic-BL. We find a limit on the isotropic gamma-ray energy release E-gamma,E- iso < 4.9 x 10(48) erg, a limit on X-ray emission L-X < 10(40) erg s(-1), and a limit on radio emission nu L-v less than or similar to 10(37) erg s(-1). Taken together, we find that the early (< 10 days) data are best explained by shock breakout in a massive shell of dense circumstellar material (0.02 M-circle dot) at large radii (3 x 10(14) cm) that was ejected in eruptive pre-explosion mass-loss episodes. The late-time (> 10 days) light curve requires an additional energy source, which could be the radioactive decay of Ni-56.
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| 12. |
- Lyu, Yiming, et al.
(author)
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Vaccine value profile for Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- 2023
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In: Vaccine. - : Elsevier. - 0264-410X .- 1873-2518.
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection (gonorrhoea) is a global public health challenge, causing substantial sexual and reproductive health consequences, such as infertility, pregnancy complications and increased acquisition or transmission of HIV. There is an urgency to controlling gonorrhoea because of increasing antimicrobial resistance to ceftriaxone, the last remaining treatment option, and the potential for gonorrhoea to become untreatable. No licensed gonococcal vaccine is available. Mounting observational evidence suggests that N. meningitidis serogroup B outer membrane vesicle-based vaccines may induce cross-protection against N. gonorrhoeae (estimated 30%-40% effectiveness using the 4CMenB vaccine). Clinical trials to determine the efficacy of the 4CMenB vaccine against N. gonorrhoeae are underway, as are Phase 1/2 studies of a new gonococcal-specific vaccine candidate. Ultimately, a gonococcal vaccine must be accessible, affordable and equitably dispensed, given that those most affected by gonorrhoea are also those who may be most disadvantaged in our societies, and most cases are in less-resourced settings. This vaccine value profile (VVP) provides a high level, holistic assessment of the current data to inform the potential public health, economic and societal value of pipeline vaccines. This was developed by a working group of subject matter experts from academia, non-profit organizations, public private partnerships and multi-lateral organizations. All contributors have extensive expertise on various elements of the N. gonorrhoeae VVP and collectively aimed to identify current research and knowledge gaps. The VVP was developed using published data obtained from peer-reviewed journals or reports.
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| 13. |
- Steiner, Svava E., et al.
(author)
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UPEC kidney infection triggers neuro-immune communication leading to modulation of local renal inflammation by splenic IFNγ
- 2021
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In: PLoS Pathogens. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1553-7366 .- 1553-7374. ; 17:5
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Bacterial infection results in a veritable cascade of host responses, both local and systemic. To study the initial stages of host-pathogen interaction in living tissue we use spatially-temporally controlled in vivo models. Using this approach, we show here that within 4 h of a uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) infection in the kidney, an IFNγ response is triggered in the spleen. This rapid infection-mediated inter-organ communication was found to be transmitted via nerve signalling. Bacterial expression of the toxin α-hemolysin directly and indirectly activated sensory neurons, which were identified in the basement membrane of renal tubules. Nerve activation was transmitted via the splenic nerve, inducing upregulation of IFNγ in the marginal zones of the spleen that led to increasing concentrations of IFNγ in the circulation. We found that IFNγ modulated the inflammatory signalling generated by renal epithelia cells in response to UPEC infection. This demonstrates a new concept in the host response to kidney infection; the role of nerves in sensing infection and rapidly triggering a systemic response which can modulate inflammation at the site of infection. The interplay between the nervous and immune systems is an exciting, developing field with the appealing prospect of non-pharmaceutical interventions. Our study identifies an important role for systemic neuro-immune communication in modulating inflammation during the very first hours of a local bacterial infection in vivo.
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| 14. |
- Bolin, Bryce T., et al.
(author)
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Characterization of the Nucleus, Morphology, and Activity of Interstellar Comet 2I/Borisov by Optical and Near-infrared GROWTH, Apache Point, IRTF, ZTF, and Keck Observations
- 2020
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In: Astronomical Journal. - : American Astronomical Society. - 0004-6256 .- 1538-3881. ; 160:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We present visible and near-infrared (NIR) photometric and spectroscopic observations of interstellar object (ISO) 2I/Borisov taken from 2019 September 10 to 2019 December 20 using the GROWTH, the Apache Point Observatory Astrophysical Research Consortium 3.5 m, and the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility 3.0 m combined with pre- and postdiscovery observations of 2I obtained by the Zwicky Transient Facility from 2019 March 17 to 2019 May 5. Comparison with imaging of distant solar system comets shows an object very similar to mildly active solar system comets with an outgassing rate of similar to 10(27)mol s(-1). The photometry, taken in filters spanning the visible and NIR range, shows a gradual brightening trend of similar to 0.03 mag day(-1)since 2019 September 10 UTC for a reddish object becoming neutral in the NIR. The light curve from recent and prediscovery data reveals a brightness trend suggesting the recent onset of significant H2O sublimation with the comet being active with super volatiles such as CO at heliocentric distances >6 au consistent with its extended morphology. Using the advanced capability to significantly reduce the scattered light from the coma enabled by high-resolution NIR images from Keck adaptive optics taken on 2019 October 4, we estimate a diameter for 2I's nucleus of less than or similar to 1.4 km. We use the size estimates of 1I/'Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov to roughly estimate the slope of the ISO size distribution, resulting in a slope of similar to 3.4 1.2, similar to solar system comets and bodies produced from collisional equilibrium.
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| 15. |
- Catena, N, et al.
(author)
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Current concepts in diagnosis and management of common upper limb nerve injuries in children
- 2021
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In: Journal of children's orthopaedics. - : SAGE Publications. - 1863-2521 .- 1863-2548. ; 15:2, s. 89-96
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) of the upper limb are a common event in the paediatric population, following both fractures and soft tissues injuries. Open injuries should in theory be easier to identify and the repair of injured structures performed as soon as possible in order to obtain a satisfying outcome. Conversely, due to the reduced compliance of younger children during clinical assessment, the diagnosis of a closed nerve injury may sometimes be delayed. As the compliance of patients is influenced by pain, anxiety and stress, the execution of the clinical manoeuvres intended to identify a loss of motor function or sensibility, can be impaired. Although the majority of PNI are neuroapraxias resulting in spontaneous recovery, there are open questions regarding certain aspects of closed PNI, e.g. when to ask for electrophysiological exams, when and how long to wait for a spontaneous recovery and when a surgical approach becomes mandatory. The aim of the article is therefore to analyse the main aspects of the different closed PNI of the upper limb in order to provide recommendations for timely and correct management, and to determine differences in the PNI treatment between children and adults.
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| 20. |
- Choong, Ferdinand, et al.
(author)
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A semi high-throughput method for real-time monitoring of curli producing Salmonella biofilms on air-solid interfaces
- 2021
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In: Biofilm. - : Elsevier BV. - 2590-2075. ; 3, s. 100060-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Biofilms enable bacteria to colonize numerous ecological niches. Bacteria within a biofilm are protected by the extracellular matrix (ECM), of which the fibril-forming amyloid protein curli and polysaccharide cellulose are major components in members of Salmonella, Eschericha and Mycobacterium genus. A shortage of real-time detection methods has limited our understanding of how ECM production contributes to biofilm formation and pathogenicity. Here we present optotracing as a new semi-high throughput method for dynamic monitoring of Salmonella biofilm growth on air-solid interfaces. We show how an optotracer with binding-induced fluorescence acts as a dynamic fluorescent reporter of curli expression during biofilm formation on agar. Using spectrophotometry and microscopic imaging of fluorescence, we analyse in real-time the development of the curli architecture in relation to bacterial cells. With exceptional spatial and temporal precision, this revealed a well-structured, non-uniform distribution of curli organised in distally projecting radial channel patterns. Dynamic monitoring of the biofilm also showed defined regions undergoing different growth phases. ECM structures were found to assemble in regions of late exponential growth phase, suggesting that ECM forms on site after bacteria colonize the surface. As the optotracer biofilm method expedites screening of curli production, providing exceptional spatial-temporal understanding of the surface-associated biofilm lifestyle, this method adds a new technique to further our understanding of bacterial biofilms.
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| 21. |
- Choong, Ferdinand X., et al.
(author)
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Nondestructive, real-time determination and visualization of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin by luminescent oligothiophenes
- 2016
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In: Scientific Reports. - : Nature Publishing Group. - 2045-2322. ; 6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Enabling technologies for efficient use of the bio-based feedstock are crucial to the replacement of oil-based products. We investigated the feasibility of luminescent conjugated oligothiophenes (LCOs) for non-destructive, rapid detection and quality assessment of lignocellulosic components in complex biomass matrices. A cationic pentameric oligothiophene denoted p-HTEA (pentamer hydrogen thiophene ethyl amine) showed unique binding affinities to cellulose, lignin, hemicelluloses, and cellulose nanofibrils in crystal, liquid and paper form. We exploited this finding using spectrofluorometric methods and fluorescence confocal laser scanning microscopy, for sensitive, simultaneous determination of the structural and compositional complexities of native lignocellulosic biomass. With exceptional photostability, p-HTEA is also demonstrated as a dynamic sensor for real-time monitoring of enzymatic cellulose degradation in cellulolysis. These results demonstrate the use of p-HTEA as a non-destructive tool for the determination of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin in complex biomass matrices, thereby aiding in the optimization of biomass-converting technologies.
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| 22. |
- Choong, Oi Kuan, 1985, et al.
(author)
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SARS-CoV-2 replicates and displays oncolytic properties in clear cell and papillary renal cell carcinoma
- 2023
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In: Plos One. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 18:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The SARS-CoV-2 virus is currently causing a global pandemic. Infection may result in a systemic disease called COVID-19, affecting primarily the respiratory tract. Often the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys also become involved. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) serves as the receptor for SARS-CoV-2. The membrane proteins, Transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) and Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) are accessory proteins facilitating the virus entry. In this study we show that the human proximal kidney tubules, express these factors. We hypothesized that cancers derived from proximal tubules as clear cell (CCRCC) and papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC), retain the expression of the SARS-CoV-2 entry factors making these cancers susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. We used bioinformatics, western blotting, and assessment of tissue micro arrays (TMA) including 263 cases of CCRCC, 139 cases of PRCC and 18 cases of chromophobe RCC to demonstrate that the majority of CCRCC and PRCC cases retained the RNA and protein expression of the entry factors for SARS-CoV-2. We furthermore show that SARS-CoV-2 virus propagated robustly in primary cultures of CCRCC and PRCC cells with a visible virus cytopathogenic effect correlating with viral RNA expression levels. We also noted that the delta-variant of SARS-CoV-2 causes cancer cells to form syncytia in-vitro. This phenomenon was also identified histologically in CCRCC tissue from a patient that had been hospitalized for COVID-19, twelve months prior to nephrectomy. Our data provide insights into SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in renal cell carcinoma and that the virus causes a distinct cytopathogenic effect.
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| 23. |
- Christiansen, J. S., et al.
(author)
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Growth Hormone Research Society perspective on the development of long-acting growth hormone preparations
- 2016
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0804-4643 .- 1479-683X. ; 174:6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: The Growth Hormone (GH) Research Society (GRS) convened a workshop to address important issues regarding trial design, efficacy, and safety of long-acting growth hormone preparations (LAGH). Participants: A closed meeting of 55 international scientists with expertise in GH, including pediatric and adult endocrinologists, basic scientists, regulatory scientists, and participants from the pharmaceutical industry. Evidence: Current literature was reviewed for gaps in knowledge. Expert opinion was used to suggest studies required to address potential safety and efficacy issues. Consensus process: Following plenary presentations summarizing the literature, breakout groups discussed questions framed by the planning committee. Attendees reconvened after each breakout session to share group reports. A writing team compiled the breakout session reports into a draft document that was discussed and revised in an open forum on the concluding day. This was edited further and then circulated to attendees from academic institutions for review after the meeting. Participants from pharmaceutical companies did not participate in the planning, writing, or in the discussions and text revision on the final day of the workshop. Scientists from industry and regulatory agencies reviewed the manuscript to identify any factual errors. Conclusions: LAGH compounds may represent an advance over daily GH injections because of increased convenience and differing phamacodynamic properties, providing the potential for improved adherence and outcomes. Better methods to assess adherence must be developed and validated. Long-term surveillance registries that include assessment of efficacy, cost-benefit, disease burden, quality of life, and safety are essential for understanding the impact of sustained exposure to LAGH preparations.
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| 24. |
- Collett-Solberg, Paulo F., et al.
(author)
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Diagnosis, Genetics, and Therapy of Short Stature in Children : A Growth Hormone Research Society International Perspective
- 2019
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In: Hormone Research in Paediatrics. - : S. Karger. - 1663-2818 .- 1663-2826. ; 92:1, s. 1-14
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The Growth Hormone Research Society (GRS) convened a Workshop in March 2019 to evaluate the diagnosis and therapy of short stature in children. Forty-six international experts participated at the invitation of GRS including clinicians, basic scientists, and representatives from regulatory agencies and the pharmaceutical industry. Following plenary presentations addressing the current diagnosis and therapy of short stature in children, breakout groups discussed questions produced in advance by the planning committee and reconvened to share the group reports. A writing team assembled one document that was subsequently discussed and revised by participants. Participants from regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical companies were not part of the writing process. Short stature is the most common reason for referral to the pediatric endocrinologist. History, physical examination, and auxology remain the most important methods for understanding the reasons for the short stature. While some long-standing topics of controversy continue to generate debate, including in whom, and how, to perform and interpret growth hormone stimulation tests, new research areas are changing the clinical landscape, such as the genetics of short stature, selection of patients for genetic testing, and interpretation of genetic tests in the clinical setting. What dose of growth hormone to start, how to adjust the dose, and how to identify and manage a suboptimal response are still topics to debate. Additional areas that are expected to transform the growth field include the development of long-acting growth hormone preparations and other new therapeutics and diagnostics that may increase adult height or aid in the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency.
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| 25. |
- Coughlin, Michael W., et al.
(author)
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GROWTH on S190425z : Searching Thousands of Square Degrees to Identify an Optical or Infrared Counterpart to a Binary Neutron Star Merger with the Zwicky Transient Facility and Palomar Gattini-IR
- 2019
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In: Astrophysical Journal Letters. - : American Astronomical Society. - 2041-8205 .- 2041-8213. ; 885:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The third observing run by LVC has brought the discovery of many compact binary coalescences. Following the detection of the first binary neutron star merger in this run (LIGO/Virgo S190425z), we performed a dedicated follow-up campaign with the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) and Palomar Gattini-IR telescopes. The initial skymap of this single-detector gravitational wave (GW) trigger spanned most of the sky observable from Palomar Observatory. Covering 8000 deg(2) of the initial skymap over the next two nights, corresponding to 46% integrated probability, ZTF system achieved a depth of 21 m(AB) in g- and r-bands. Palomar Gattini-IR covered 2200 square degrees in J-band to a depth of 15.5 mag, including 32% integrated probability based on the initial skymap. The revised skymap issued the following day reduced these numbers to 21% for the ZTF and 19% for Palomar Gattini-IR. We narrowed 338,646 ZTF transient ?alerts? over the first two nights of observations to 15 candidate counterparts. Two candidates, ZTF19aarykkb and ZTF19aarzaod, were particularly compelling given that their location, distance, and age were consistent with the GW event, and their early optical light curves were photometrically consistent with that of kilonovae. These two candidates were spectroscopically classified as young core-collapse supernovae. The remaining candidates were ruled out as supernovae. Palomar Gattini-IR did not identify any viable candidates with multiple detections only after merger time. We demonstrate that even with single-detector GW events localized to thousands of square degrees, systematic kilonova discovery is feasible.
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
- Johannsson, Gudmundur, 1960, et al.
(author)
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Growth Hormone Research Society perspective on biomarkers of GH action in children and adults
- 2018
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In: Endocrine Connections. - : Bioscientifica. - 2049-3614. ; 7:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: The Growth Hormone Research Society (GRS) convened a Workshop in 2017 to evaluate clinical endpoints, surrogate endpoints and biomarkers during GH treatment of children and adults and in patients with acromegaly. Participants: GRS invited 34 international experts including clinicians, basic scientists, a regulatory scientist and physicians from the pharmaceutical industry. Evidence: Current literature was reviewed and expert opinion was utilized to establish the state of the art and identify current gaps and unmet needs. Consensus process: Following plenary presentations, breakout groups discussed questions framed by the planning committee. The attendees re-convened after each breakout session to share the group reports. A writing team compiled the breakout session reports into a document that was subsequently discussed and revised by participants. This was edited further and circulated for final review after the meeting. Participants from pharmaceutical companies were not part of the writing process. Conclusions: The clinical endpoint in paediatric GH treatment is adult height with height velocity as a surrogate endpoint. Increased life expectancy is the ideal but unfeasible clinical endpoint of GH treatment in adult GH-deficient patients (GHDA) and in patients with acromegaly. The pragmatic clinical endpoints in GHDA include normalization of body composition and quality of life, whereas symptom relief and reversal of comorbidities are used in acromegaly. Serum IGF-I is widely used as a biomarker, even though it correlates weakly with clinical endpoints in GH treatment, whereas in acromegaly, normalization of IGF-I may be related to improvement in mortality. There is an unmet need for novel biomarkers that capture the pleiotropic actions of GH in relation to GH treatment and in patients with acromegaly.
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| 28. |
- Kha, Michelle, 1994, et al.
(author)
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The injury-induced transcription factor SOX9 alters the expression of LBR, HMGA2, and HIPK3 in the human kidney
- 2023
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In: American Journal of Physiology - Renal Physiology. - : American Physiological Society. - 1931-857X .- 1522-1466. ; 324:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Induction of SRY box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) has been shown to occur in response to kidney injury in rodents, where SOX9-positive cells proliferate and regenerate the proximal tubules of injured kidneys. Additionally, SOX9-positive cells demonstrate a capacity to differentiate toward other nephron segments. Here, we characterized the role of SOX9 in normal and injured human kidneys. SOX9 expression was found to colocalize with a proportion of so-called scattered tubular cells in the uninjured kidney, a cell population previously shown to be involved in kidney injury and regeneration. Following injury and in areas adjacent to inflammatory cell infiltrates, SOX9-positive cells were increased in number. With the use of primary tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) obtained from human kidney tissue, SOX9 expression was spontaneously induced in culture and further increased by transforming growth factor-b1, whereas it was suppressed by interferon-c. siRNA-mediated knockdown of SOX9 in PTECs followed by analysis of differential gene expression, immunohistochemical expression, and luciferase promoter assays suggested lamin B receptor (LBR), high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), and homeodomain interacting protein kinase 3 (HIPK3) as possible target genes of SOX9. Moreover, a kidney explant model was used to demonstrate that only SOX9-positive cells survive the massive injury associated with kidney ischemia and that the surviving SOX9-positive cells spread and repopulate the tubules. Using a wound healing assay, we also showed that SOX9 positively regulated the migratory capacity of PTECs. These findings shed light on the functional and regulatory aspects of SOX9 activation in the human kidney during injury and regeneration.
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| 29. |
- Patterson, Brooke E., et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of an injury prevention programme (Prep-to-Play) in women and girls playing Australian Football : design of a pragmatic, type III, hybrid implementation-effectiveness, stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial
- 2022
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In: BMJ Open. - : BMJ Publishing Group. - 2044-6055. ; 12:9
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction Due to the increase in participation and risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and concussion in womens Australian Football, an injury prevention programme (Prep-to-Play) was codesigned with consumers (eg, coaches, players) and stakeholders (eg, the Australian Football League). The impact of supported and unsupported interventions on the use of Prep-to-Play (primary aim) and injury rates (secondary aim) will be evaluated in women and girls playing community Australian Football. Methods and analysis This stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial will include >= 140 teams from U16, U18 or senior womens competitions. All 10 geographically separated clusters (each containing >= 14 teams) will start in the control (unsupported) phase and be randomised to one of five dates (or wedges) during the 2021 or 2022 season to sequentially transition to the intervention (supported Prep-to-Play), until all teams receive the intervention. Prep-to-Play includes four elements: a neuromuscular training warm-up, contact-focussed football skills (eg, tackling), strength exercises and education (eg, technique cues). When transitioning to supported interventions, study physiotherapists will deliver a workshop to coaches and player leaders on how to use Prep-to-Play, attend team training at least two times and provide ongoing support. In the unsupported phase, team will continue usual routines and may freely access available Prep-to-Play resources online (eg, posters and videos about the four elements), but without additional face-to-face support. Outcomes will be evaluated throughout the 2021 and 2022 seasons (similar to 14 weeks per season). Primary outcome: use of Prep-to-Play will be reported via a team designate (weekly) and an independent observer (five visits over the two seasons) and defined as the team completing 75% of the programme, two-thirds (67%) of the time. Secondary outcomes: injuries will be reported by the team sports trainer and/or players. Injury definition: any injury occurring during a football match or training that results in: (1) being unable to return to the field of play for that match or (2) missing >= one match. Outcomes in the supported and unsupported phases will be compared using a generalised linear mixed model adjusting for clustering and time. Due to the type III hybrid implementation-effectiveness design, the study is powered to detect a improvement in use of Prep-to-Play and a reduction in ACL injuries. Ethics and dissemination La Trobe University Ethics Committee (HREC 20488) approved. Coaches provided informed consent to receive the supported intervention and players provided consent to be contacted if they sustained a head or knee injury. Results will be disseminated through partner organisations, peer-reviewed publications and scientific conferences.
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| 30. |
- Perley, Daniel A., et al.
(author)
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The fast, luminous ultraviolet transient AT2018cow : extreme supernova, or disruption of a star by an intermediate-mass black hole?
- 2019
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In: Monthly notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0035-8711 .- 1365-2966. ; 484:1, s. 1031-1049
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Wide-field optical surveys have begun to uncover large samples of fast (t(rise) less than or similar to 5 d), luminous (M-peak < 18), blue transients. While commonly attributed to the breakout of a supernova shock into a dense wind, the great distances to the transients of this class found so far have hampered detailed investigation of their properties. We present photometry and spectroscopy from a comprehensive worldwide campaign to observe AT 2018cow (ATLAS 18qqn), the first fast-luminous optical transient to be found in real time at low redshift. Our first spectra (<2 days after discovery) are entirely featureless. A very broad absorption feature suggestive of near-relativistic velocities develops between 3 and 8 days, then disappears. Broad emission features of H and He develop after >10 days. The spectrum remains extremely hot throughout its evolution, and the photospheric radius contracts with time (receding below R < 10 (14) cm after 1 month). This behaviour does not match that of any known supernova, although a relativistic jet within a fallback supernova could explain some of the observed features. Alternatively, the transient could originate from the disruption of a star by an intermediate-mass black hole, although this would require long-lasting emission of highly super-Eddington thermal radiation. In either case, AT 2018cow suggests that the population of fast luminous transients represents a new class of astrophysical event. Intensive follow-up of this event in its late phases, and of any future events found at comparable distance, will be essential to better constrain their origins.
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| 31. |
- Schmidt, Alina E. M., et al.
(author)
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Defibrillated Lignocellulose Recovery Guided by Plant Chemistry and Anatomy – A Pioneering Study with Lupinus angustifolius
- 2024
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In: Advanced Sustainable Systems. - : Wiley. - 2366-7486 .- 2366-7486.
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The strive toward sustainability increases the demand for bio-based material production, forcing expansion of the biorefinery feedstock supply from forest wood to non-woody materials such as agricultural residues. As a model organism for legume crops, the aptness of agricultural lupins as a lignocellulose feedstock is investigated. Principle chemical analysis combined with optotracing, in which the fluorescent tracer molecule Carbotrace 680 generates a visual map of the native tissues’ lignocellulose anatomy at sub-cellular resolution, enables informed design of a mild recovery process. A streamlined conversion approach is then designed, yielding lignin-containing microfibrillated cellulose. By monitoring defibrillation and delignification throughout the extraction process, the use of optotracing for non-destructive fiber analytics at unprecedented details across all hierarchical structures of lignocellulosic materials is demonstrated. This crop valorization is a prime illustration of a holistic use of lupin biomass, with seeds serving as plant-based food sources, and other parts as sources for lignocellulose-based materials, thereby expanding both the biorefinery concept and feedstock supply.
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| 32. |
- Shaw Cortez, Wenceslao E., et al.
(author)
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Control Barrier Functions for Mechanical Systems : Theory and Application to Robotic Grasping
- 2021
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In: IEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology. - : Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). - 1063-6536 .- 1558-0865. ; 29:2, s. 530-545
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Control barrier functions have been demonstrated to be a useful method of ensuring constraint satisfaction for a wide class of controllers. However, the existing results are mostly restricted to continuous-time systems. Mechanical systems, including robots, are typically second-order systems in which the control occurs at the force/torque level. These systems have actuator, velocity, and position constraints (i.e., relative degree two) that are vital for safety and/or task execution. Additionally, mechanical systems are typically controlled digitally as sampled-data systems. The contribution of this article is twofold. The first contribution is the development of novel, robust control barrier functions that ensure constraint satisfaction for sampled-data systems in the presence of model uncertainty and allows for satisfaction of actuator constraints. The second contribution is the application of the proposed method to the challenging problem of robotic grasping in which a robotic hand must ensure that an object remains inside the grasp while manipulating it to the desired reference trajectory. A grasp constraint satisfying controller is proposed that can admit the existing nominal manipulation controllers from the literature while simultaneously ensuring no slip, no overextension (e.g., singular configurations), and no rolling off of the fingertips. Simulation and experimental results validate the proposed control for the robotic hand application.
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| 33. |
- Shaw Cortez, Wenceslao E., et al.
(author)
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Technical Note for "Tactile-Based Blind Grasping : A Discrete-Time Object Manipulation Controller for Robotic Hands"
- 2020
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In: IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. - : Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). - 2377-3766. ; 5:2, s. 3475-3476
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The manuscript "Tactile-based Blind Grasping: A Discrete-Time Object Manipulation Controller for Robotic Hands"; contains results that are dependent on two references. Since publication, we realized that one of these references has inconsistent results regarding continuity of quadratic programs. The second reference has updated conditions that are not completely reflected in the original manuscript. We take the time here to replace the inconsistencies and update this manuscript to preserve the theoretical guarantees of the proposed controller. We note that this correction does not change the proposed control law, and is made to formally ensure that the guarantees hold.
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