bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study on geographic‐based routing algorithms for flying ad‐hoc networks
Authors: Agrawal Juhi , Kapoor Monit
Published: March 2021

The advancement of the technology and broad availability of low‐cost devices (e.g., networking technology, micro‐embedded computers, and sensors, etc.) have opened new ways for the expansion of flying ad‐hoc networks (FANETs). The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have the potential to change their trajectory freely in the case of FANETs. This freedom demands efficient routing to make the network connection smooth. However, designing routing protocols for FANETs is a crucial task for highly dynamic nodes like UAVs. The position‐based routing demonstrated high efficiency and resilience to handle the high mobility of UAV nodes in FANETs as compared to topology‐based routing protocols. Geographic routing protocols utilize the coordinates of the node to greedily proceed toward the destination. This article presents an extensive review of position‐based or geographic routing protocols in FANETs. Previous survey papers have performed a comparative analysis of all the protocols on different network conditions, assumptions, tools, and settings, therefore their performance is not comparable. The novelty of this survey is that this article performs the comparative analysis of various geographic routing protocols by evaluating all the geographic routing protocols over a common network scenario with a varying number of nodes. The starting phase of this article covers the basic outline of FANETs. Thereafter, an absolute study of the geographic based routing protocol has been presented by distinguishing the routing protocols on the basis of path and packet forwarding strategy. This article further emphasizes on the strength, weaknesses, quality of service (QoS), and comparative analysis of the various characteristics of the geographic routing protocols. Finally, a performance comparison summary of all the analyzed routing protocols for FANETs has been presented. The open research issues have been discussed at the end of this article.
Mapping Colombian people's positions regarding the acceptability of political amnesties
Authors: Pineda Marín Claudia , López José Luis , Espitia Manuel Beltrán , Mullet Etienne
Published: March 2021

This study mapped the different personal positions of Colombian adults regarding the determinants of the acceptability of political amnesties in post‐conflict contexts. A total of 380 Colombian adults between the ages of 18 and 80, living either in the capital or in rural areas (Cundinamarca and Chocó), were presented with 24 scenarios describing the situation of an amnesty applicant. They were composed according to a four‐factor schema: the personal willingness to be part of the rebel group at the time of recruitment, the quality of information the applicant was willing to disclose, the presence of an apology, and the level of punishment already suffered. Through cluster analysis, five qualitatively different positions were found: Never acceptable (20%), Almost always acceptable (13%), Depends jointly on the quality of information and repentance (45%), Depends on repentance and volunteering (8%), and Depends only on the quality of information (2%). The remaining participants (12%) did not express a position. For a majority of participants, whether they live in the capital or in rural areas, granting a political amnesty to a combatant is not unacceptable as a matter of principle. For those who believe that amnesty is possible, it must be deserved: the recipient must demonstrate that he or she no longer represents a potential danger to neighbors or future co‐workers. This implies that amnesties are granted on a case‐by‐case basis, after examination of each particular situation.
Adherence and optimization of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptors blockers and beta‐blockers in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure
Authors: Carubelli Valentina , Lombardi Carlo , Specchia Claudia , Peveri Giulia , Oriecuia Chiara , Tomasoni Daniela , Di Pasquale Mattia , Inciardi Riccardo , Garrafa Emirena , Metra Marco
Published: March 2021

Aims

Treatment with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi)/angiotensin II receptors blockers (ARBs) and beta‐blockers is frequently suboptimal at discharge in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (AHF). We investigated the prognostic significance of medical treatment at discharge and its changes during hospitalization.

Methods and results

In a retrospective analysis, we included 623 patients hospitalized for AHF with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (<40%). The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality and heart failure rehospitalization to Day 180 since hospital discharge. A total of 249 (42.4%) of patients received no ACEi/ARBs/BB or <50% target dose (TD) of these drugs, 249 (42.4%) had either ACEi/ARBs or BB ≥ 50% of TD, and 89 (15.2%) ACEi/ARBs and BB ≥ 50% of TD at discharge. The primary endpoint was significantly lower in patients receiving at least one drug ≥50% of TD compared with no or low‐dose treatment (ACEi/ARBs or BB ≥ 50% TD: adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.49–0.98], P = 0.04; ACEi/ARBs and BB ≥ 50% TD: adjusted HR 0.54, 95% CI [0.30–0.96], P = 0.03). With regard to treatment changes from admission to discharge, therapy was decreased in 258 (44.6%) patients, stable in 194 (33.6%), and increased in 126 (21.8%). Compared with patients with stable therapy, treatment intensification was associated with a lower rate of the primary endpoint (adjusted HR 0.49, 95% CI [0.29–0.83]; P = 0.01).

Conclusions

In patients with AHF, prescription of ACEi/ARBs/BB ≥ 50% TD at the time of discharge, whether achieved or not through treatment intensification during the hospitalization, is associated with better post‐discharge outcomes.
Porous Carbon Nanosheets Derived from ZIF‐8 Treated with KCl as Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zou Liuyong , Zhong Guoyu , Nie Yujun , Tan Zixuan , Liao Wenbo , Fu Xiaobo , Pan Zhanchang
Published: March 2021

Developing advanced electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a critical reaction in fuel cells. Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived nitrogen‐doped carbons have been widely reported as promising electrocatalysts for ORR. Herein, a KCl‐assisted pyrolysis method is reported to prepare N‐doped porous carbon nanosheets (NCNS). During pyrolysis preparation, KCl crystals act as templates and activator, penetrating the ZIF‐8‐derived carbon material via capillarity, which facilitates the formation of micro‐ and mesopores carbon nanosheets. By adjusting the KCl dosage and pyrolysis temperature, the carbon material structure, nitrogen species, and graphitization degree are effectively controlled. The optimal NCNS‐10‐900 catalyst exhibits a higher half‐wave potential (≈0.88 V) in alkaline solution, which is even better than Pt/C (≈0.86 V). The NCNS‐10‐900 also exhibits outstanding long‐term stability with an only 17 mV shift in half‐wave potential after a 10K cycle durability test. All of these high properties are ascribed to the high specific surface area, the abundant microporous and mesoporous nanosheet structure, and the synergistic effects of the N species with intrinsic activity. This strategy of using a KCl‐assisted pyrolysis MOF provides a feasible method to explore highly efficient and robust non‐noble metal catalysts for energy‐conversion reactions.
Effect of Nanoplastic Type and Surface Chemistry on Particle Agglomeration over a Salinity Gradient
Authors: Shupe Hannah J. , Boenisch Kylie M. , Harper Bryan J. , Brander Susanne M. , Harper Stacey L.
Published: March 2021

Agglomeration of nanoplastics in waters can alter their transport and fate in the environment. Agglomeration behavior of 4 nanoplastics differing in core composition (red- or blue-dyed polystyrene) and surface chemistry (plain or carboxylated poly[methyl methacrylate] [PMMA]) was investigated across a salinity gradient. No agglomeration was observed for carboxylated PMMA at any salinity, whereas the plain PMMA agglomerated at only 1 g/L. Both the red and the blue polystyrene agglomerated at 25 g/L. Results indicate that both composition and surface chemistry can impact how environmental salinity affects plastic nanoparticle agglomeration. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1820–1826. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Abstract

Nanoplastic agglomeration behavior across experimental salinity gradients varies depending on plastic type and surface chemistry. PMMA = poly(methyl methacrylate); PS = polystyrene.
Monitoring Trout Response to Instream Flow
Authors: Campbell Ron , Hilgert Phil , Binkley Keith , Beecher Hal
Published: March 2021

Run-of-river hydropower reduces streamflow between diversion and powerhouse, potentially impacting fish. Hydropower license conditions include instream flows to protect fish, but monitoring instream flow effectiveness to protect fish is rarely reported. Monitoring a trout population before construction (baseline) and during operation of a small hydropower project with instream flows for spawning and incubation, summer rearing, and winter rearing based on a Physical Habitat Simulation System in the state of Washington indicated the instream flow protected the trout. The monitoring plan included decision points based on monitoring results. Increasing or stable population trends would trigger locking in an instream flow for the remainder of the license, while declines would trigger incremental increases in the instream flow, followed by additional monitoring and decision points. Three years of monitoring following beginning of the project indicated an apparent increase in the trout population over baseline, suggesting that the instream flow was protective, triggering finalization of instream flows. An additional year of monitoring conducted after several more years of project operation was consistent with the finding of the first 3 years of operation.
The interplay between the level of voluntary participation and supervisor support on trainee motivation and transfer
Authors: Salamon Janos , Blume Brian D. , Orosz Gábor , Nagy Tamás
Published: March 2021

There have been conflicting findings about whether mandatory versus voluntary training leads to more positive training outcomes. We propose moving away from a dichotomous distinction to a more dynamic participation approach to better elucidate theoretical differences relating to self‐determination theory. A sample of 311 trainees from eight companies participated in a variety of open skill (e.g., leadership) training programs. Results indicated that higher levels of voluntary participation were positively related to trainees' transfer motivation and training transfer. We also found that the level of voluntary participation moderates the relationship between supervisor support and both motivation to transfer and training transfer. Supervisor support facilitates trainee motivation and transfer to a larger extent when participation is less voluntary. Future training should be framed and promoted to increase employee motivation to voluntarily participate, especially for employees with less supervisor support.
Defective lysosomal storage in Fabry disease modifies mitochondrial structure, metabolism and turnover in renal epithelial cells
Authors: Schumann Anke , Schaller Kristin , Belche Véronique , Cybulla Markus , Grünert Sarah C. , Moers Nicolai , Sass Jörn O. , Kaech Andres , Hannibal Luciana , Spiekerkoetter Ute
Published: March 2021

Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disorder. Deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme alpha‐galactosidase (GLA) leads to accumulation of potentially toxic globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) on a multisystem level. Cardiac and cerebrovascular abnormalities as well as progressive renal failure are severe, life‐threatening long‐term complications. The complete pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in FD and the role of tubular involvement for its progression are unclear. We established human renal tubular epithelial cell lines from the urine of male FD patients and male controls. The renal tubular system is rich in mitochondria and involved in transport processes at high‐energy costs. Our studies revealed fragmented mitochondria with disrupted cristae structure in FD patient cells. Oxidative stress levels were elevated and oxidative phosphorylation was upregulated in FD pointing at enhanced energetic needs. Mitochondrial homeostasis and energy metabolism revealed major changes as evidenced by differences in mitochondrial number, energy production and fuel consumption. The changes were accompanied by activation of the autophagy machinery in FD. Sirtuin1, an important sensor of (renal) metabolic stress and modifier of different defense pathways, was highly expressed in FD. Our data show that lysosomal FD impairs mitochondrial function and results in severe disturbance of mitochondrial energy metabolism in renal cells. This insight on a tissue‐specific level points to new therapeutic targets which might enhance treatment efficacy.
Diurnal variation of precipitation from the perspectives of precipitation amount, intensity and duration over Sumatra from rain gauge observations
Authors: Marzuki Marzuki , Suryanti Krisna , Yusnaini Helmi , Tangang Fredolin , Muharsyah Robi , Vonnisa Mutya , Devianto Dodi
Published: March 2021

The characteristics of diurnal variation of precipitation in terms of amount (PA), frequency (PF), and intensity (PI) over Sumatra have been investigated using rain‐gauge data from 186 stations. Mean PA and PF show spatial variations significantly affected by the terrain elevation and stations' distance to the west coastline of Sumatra. A slightly larger PA and PF appear over the middle and western sections of the Barisan mountains, in which the mean PI is smaller in these regions. Most stations with large rainfall amount also have large rainfall frequencies, indicated by a strong correlation between PA and PF. The timing of the diurnal peak of PA, PF, and PI also has prominent regional characteristics. The cluster analysis reveals different grouping of stations with distinctive diurnal peaks. The prevailing afternoon and early‐evening peaks, that is, 1500–2000 LST, appear mostly over mountain ranges where amplitude of PA and PF tended to increase with elevation. Moreover, the amplitude of diurnal cycles tended to decrease as distance from the Sumatra's west coastline increases. On the western side of Barisan's mountain range, high amplitude of diurnal cycle prevails compared to the eastern side. We also found a strong relationship between rain event duration with diurnal cycle pattern. Generally, rain event with a long duration tended to have a peak occurring at a later time compared with those events of shorter duration. The diurnal variation of precipitation corresponds to the temporal evolution of the low‐level convergences and wind vectors, and cloud migration modulated by land‐sea breeze system.
Dual‐Vector Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Smile Reanimation with Lower Lip Depression
Authors: Ein Liliana , Hadlock Tessa A. , Jowett Nate
Published: March 2021

View Video S1 Laryngoscope, 131:1758–1760, 2021
Mesoscale Simulation on the Hydrated Morphologies of SPEEK Membrane
Authors: Wang Jihao , Xu Zhiyang , Chen Jia , Yang Xiaozhen , Ramakrishna Seeram , Liu Yong
Published: March 2021

Proton transport in proton exchange membrane is considered to depend on the hydrophilic domain formed by the microphase separation between hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments of the membrane. Therefore, the study of hydrated morphologies is crucial to understand proton transport. Here, the mesoscopic structure of sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK) membrane and SPEEK/polyethersulfone (PES) blend membrane is investigated by dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulation. The degree of sulfonation, water content, and PES content are considered to affect proton transport. Results show that the hydrophilic particles combine with water and are separated from hydrophobic particles to form clusters of different sizes. For the SPEEK membrane, with the increase in the sulfonation degree, clusters become large and begin to connect. Compared with isolated clusters at low water content, water clusters become large with increased water content. When water content λ = 16, the cluster size is the largest. The addition of PES accelerates the phase separation in the membrane and increases the size of water clusters. When SPEEK/PES = 4:6, the cluster size is the largest and provides the best proton transport pathway.
IDDRRA: A novel platform, based on Geant4‐DNA to quantify DNA damage by ionizing radiation
Authors: Chatzipapas Konstantinos P. , Papadimitroulas Panagiotis , Loudos George , Papanikolaou Niko , Kagadis George C.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study proposes a novel computational platform that we refer to as IDDRRA (DNA Damage Response to Ionizing RAdiation), which uses Monte Carlo (MC) simulations to score radiation induced DNA damage. MC simulations provide results of high accuracy on the interaction of radiation with matter while scoring the energy deposition based on state‐of‐the‐art physics and chemistry models and probabilistic methods.

Methods

The IDDRRA software is based on the Geant4‐DNA toolkit together with new tools that were developed for the purpose of this study, including a new algorithm that was developed in Python for the design of the DNA molecules. New classes were developed in C++ to integrate the GUI and produce the simulation’s output in text format. An algorithm was also developed to analyze the simulation’s output in terms of energy deposition, Single Strand Breaks (SSB), Double Strand Breaks (DSB) and Cluster Damage Sites (CDS). Finally, a new tool was developed to implement probabilistic SSB and DSB repair models using MC techniques.

Results

This article provides the first benchmarks that the user of the IDDRRA tool can use to validate the functionality of the software as well as to provide a starting point to produce different types of DNA simulations. These benchmarks incorporate different kind of particles (e‐, e+, protons, electron spectrum) and DNA molecules.

Conclusion

We have developed the IDDRRA tool and demonstrated its use to study various aspects of the modeling and simulation of a DNA irradiation experiment. The tool is expandable and can be expanded by other users with new benchmarks and applications based on the user’s needs and experience. New functionality will be added over time, including the quantification of the indirect damage.
Phase retrieval‐based phase‐contrast CT for vascular imaging with microbubble contrast agent
Authors: Tang Rongbiao , Li Yongfang , Qin Le , Yan Fuhua , Yang Guo‐Yuan , Chen Ke‐Min
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The introduction of microbubble contrast agent into tissues can create significant phase shifts. Phase retrieval (PR)‐based phase‐contrast computed tomography (PCCT) is an imaging method for retrieving and reconstructing the phase shifts within an object. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of PR‐based PCCT with microbubble contrast agent for vascular imaging.

Methods

Projection phase‐contrast images of individual microbubbles and a cluster of microbubbles were captured and compared. Contrast enhancement from microbubbles was evaluated by comparing to the gold standard iodine‐based contrast agent in vitro. The arterial systems of 14 Sprague–Dawley rats were perfused with microbubbles or saline. The rat hearts and the arterial systems were excised and imaged ex vivo. CT imaging was performed at the energy of 22 keV. PR was performed using the phase‐attenuation duality (PAD) method with different δ/β values (PAD property). The contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) was used for quantitatively assessing the contrast enhancement.

Results

Individual microbubbles functioned as a lens to focus the x rays, whereas, a cluster of microbubbles scattered the x rays. In the in vitro experiment, the contrast enhancement from iodine was significantly greater than that from microbubbles (P < 0.05). In the heart samples, the CNRs for microbubbles on PR‐based PCCT were significantly greater than those on absorption‐contrast CT (ACCT) and PR‐free PCCT (both P < 0.001). The CNRs for microbubbles were also significantly greater than those for saline on PR‐based PCCT in the samples (P < 0.001). Although they provided weaker contrast enhancement than that from iodine, microbubbles could still provide sufficient contrast enhancement to clearly show the 3D architecture of rat aortas and their main branches.

Conclusion

The imaging modality can currently be used as a complement or alternative to absorption‐based microCT for imaging vessels in biological samples.
To tell a different story: Unexpected diversity in local attitudes towards Endangered Aye‐ayes Daubentonia madagascariensis offers new opportunities for conservation
Authors: Randimbiharinirina Roger Doménico , Richter Torsten , Raharivololona Brigitte M. , Ratsimbazafy Jonah H. , Schüßler Dominik
Published: March 2021

Human–wildlife interactions are usually centred on the conflict between local populations and species that are perceived as problematic. To better understand the human dimension, social science approaches are increasingly incorporated to delimit opportunities for coexistence and species conservation.

Here we explore local attitudes and beliefs about one of these ‘problematic’ species, the Endangered Aye‐aye Daubentonia madagascariensis, the largest nocturnal primate on earth. We conducted a literature review on published beliefs and narratives about the Aye‐aye followed by 83 semi‐structured interviews in 11 villages in northeastern Madagascar.

The Aye‐aye is generally perceived as a bad omen throughout its range. In many places it has to be killed on sight, while in others it is forbidden to be killed. We did not find any positive attitudes towards this species in the literature. However, this was not reflected by our interviews: although 47.0% of respondents held a negative attitude, more than half had a neutral or even positive attitude towards the Aye‐aye (36.1 and 18.1% respectively). Positive attitudes were linked to perceived pest control services on major cash crops. Negative attitudes are mostly related to the perception that when an Aye‐aye comes to a village, catastrophic things (e.g. deaths of community members) will happen, or that it destroys a village. These major narratives were mostly consistent within villages (79.5 ± 20.7% SD of respondents; range 50–100%) but considerably differed between villages.

Negative attitudes towards the Aye‐aye were solely based on vague and generic narratives that are not reflected by its (true) ecology. Positive and neutral attitudes instead were related to observable behaviours benefitting people (i.e. pest control services) or curiosity about the species. This case study illustrates how even firm narratives can vary locally offering valuable starting points for targeted conservation or education programs. We therefore identified the Makira region of northeastern Madagascar as a potential stronghold for Aye‐aye conservation if specific actions highlighting its beneficial value could be initiated. In general, conservation practitioners should feel encouraged to look beyond the often told stories about ‘their’ target species and listen to local voices more often.
Self‐assembly mechanism of PEG‐b‐PCL and PEG‐b‐PBO‐b‐PCL amphiphilic copolymer micelles in aqueous solution from coarse grain modeling
Authors: Sadeghi Maryam S. , Moghbeli Mohammad Reza , Goddard William A.
Published: March 2021

We followed the self‐assembly of high‐molecular weight MePEG‐b‐PCL (poly(methyl ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone)) diblock and MePEG‐b‐PBO‐b‐PCL (poly(methyl ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(1,2‐butylene oxide)‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone)) into micelles using molecular dynamics simulation with a coarse grain (CG) force field based on quantum mechanics (CGq FF). The triblock polymer included a short poly(1,2‐butylene oxide) (PBO) at the hydrophilic‐hydrophobic interface of these systems. Keeping the hydrophilic length fixed (MePEG45), we considered 250 chains in which the hydrophobic length changed from PCL44 or PBO6‐b‐PCL43 to PCL62 or PBO9‐b‐PCL61. The polymers were solvated in explicit water for 2 μs of simulations at 310.15 K. We found that the longer diblock system undergoes a morphological transition from an intermediate rod‐like micelle to a prolate‐sphere, while the micelle formed from the longer triblock system is a stable rod‐like micelle. The two shorter diblock and triblock systems show similar self‐assembly processes, both resulting in slightly prolate‐spheres. The dynamics of the self‐assembly is quantified in terms of chain radius of gyration, shape anisotropy, and hydration of the micelle cores. The final micelle structures are analyzed in terms of the local density components. We conclude that the CG model accurately describes the molecular mechanisms of self‐assembly and the equilibrium micellar structures of hydrophilic and hydrophobic chains, including the quantity of solvent trapped inside the micellar core.
Nobiletin ameliorates cardiac impairment and alleviates cardiac remodeling after acute myocardial infarction in rats via JNK regulation
Authors: Liu Zumei , Gao Zhimin , Zeng Lihuan , Liang Zhenye , Zheng Dechong , Wu Xiaoqian
Published: March 2021

Nobiletin was found to protect against acute myocardial infarction (AMI)‐induced cardiac function decline and myocardial remodeling, although the dose–effect relationship and underlying pathways remained unclear. In the current research, different doses of Nobiletin (7.5, 15 and 30 mg/kg/day) were administered to AMI rat model for 21 days. Survival rate, echocardiography, and histological analysis were assessed in vivo. In addition, MTT assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting were conducted to explore Nobiletin's cytotoxicity and antiapoptotic effect on H9C2 cells. Mechanistically, the activation of MAPK effectors and p38 in vivo was studied. The results showed medium‐ and high‐dose Nobiletin could significantly improve survival rate and cardiac function and reduce the area of infarction and cardiac fibrosis. Medium dose showed the best protection on cardiac functions, whereas high dose showed the best protective effect on cellular apoptosis and histological changes. JNK activation was significantly inhibited by Nobiletin in vivo, which could help to explain the partial contribution of autophagy to AMI‐induced apoptosis and the discrepancy on dose–effect relationships. Together, our study suggested that JNK inhibition plays an important role in Nobiletin‐induced antiapoptotic effect in myocardial infarction, and medium‐dose Nobiletin demonstrated the strongest effect in vivo.
Photoluminescence of Point Defects in Silicon Dioxide by Femtosecond Laser Exposure
Authors: De Michele Vincenzo , Marin Emmanuel , Boukenter Aziz , Cannas Marco , Girard Sylvain , Ouerdane Youcef
Published: March 2021

The nature of the radiation‐induced point defects in amorphous silica is investigated through online photoluminescence (PL) under high intensity ultrashort laser pulses. Using 1030 nm femtosecond laser pulses with a repetition rate of 1 kHz, it is possible to study the induced color centers through their PL signatures monitored during the laser exposure. Their generation is driven by the nonlinear absorption of the light related to the high pulse peak powers provided by femtosecond laser, allowing to probe the optical properties of the laser exposed region. The experiment is conducted as a function of the laser pulse power in samples with different OH contents. The results highlight the different interaction regimes attained by varying the irradiation conditions for various chemical compositions. Moreover, the online measurements are combined with postmortem characterization of the damaged area, via phase contrast microscopy, Raman and steady‐state PL spectroscopies, highlighting the potential of these online femtosecond tests to provide additional knowledge to the postmortem technique ones.
Therapeutic Potential of Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth Infusion into Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Depends on Basal Lipid Levels and Islet Function
Authors: Li Wenwen , Jiao Xuan , Song Jingyun , Sui Bingdong , Guo Zhili , Zhao Yingji , Li Jun , Shi Songtao , Huang Qin
Published: March 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great potential in treating patients with diabetes, but the therapeutic effects are not always achieved. Particularly, the clinical factors regulating MSC therapy in this setting are largely unknown. In this study, 24 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with insulin were selected to receive three intravenous infusions of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) over the course of 6 weeks and were followed up for 12 months. We observed a significant reduction of glycosylated serum albumin level (P < .05) and glycosylated hemoglobin level (P < .05) after SHED transplantation. The total effective rate was 86.36% and 68.18%, respectively, at the end of treatment and follow-up periods. Three patients ceased insulin injections after SHED transplantation. A steamed bread meal test showed that the serum levels of postprandial C-peptide at 2 hours were significantly higher than those at the baseline (P < .05). Further analysis showed that patients with a high level of blood cholesterol and a low baseline level of C-peptide had poor response to SHED transplantation. Some patients experienced a transient fever (11.11%), fatigue (4.17%), or rash (1.39%) after SHED transplantation, which were easily resolved. In summary, SHED infusion is a safe and effective therapy to improve glucose metabolism and islet function in patients with T2DM. Blood lipid levels and baseline islet function may serve as key factors contributing to the therapeutic outcome of MSC transplantation in patients with T2DM.
Reputations in flux: How a firm defends its multiple reputations in response to different violations
Authors: Bundy Jonathan , Iqbal Farhan , Pfarrer Michael D
Published: March 2021

Research Summary

We examine how a firm defends its capability and character reputations in response to different violations. We develop our core theoretical mechanism—stakeholders' situational expectations—to theorize that the effectiveness of a firm's response strategy following a violation depends on the nature of the violation and the reputational judgment being made. We test our hypotheses using two longitudinal violation samples and novel media‐based measures of reputation. Generally, we find that a more accommodative strategy is an effective defense following a capability violation, but it is less effective following a character violation. In supplemental analyses, we also discover that a more accommodative strategy is less effective at managing general reputation. Ultimately, our theory and findings suggest that reputation defense is more complex than previously considered.

Managerial Summary

We shed light on the challenges managers face in defending their multiple reputations following a violation. We suggest that the type of violation affects stakeholders' expectations of the firm, and that these expectations differentially threaten a firm's multiple reputations as well as the efficacy of its response strategy. Using a sample of capability‐based (unintentional financial restatements) and character‐based (environmental malfeasance) violations, we find that a more accommodative response strategy can defend certain reputations following a capability‐based violation but can be detrimental to other reputations. We also find accommodativeness to be generally harmful following a character‐based violation. Ultimately, our results suggest that managers should consider both the type of reputation they are defending and the nature of the violation when implementing a response strategy.
Tradable instruments to fight climate change: A disappointing outcome
Authors: Quirion Philippe
Published: March 2021

Various tradable instruments have been implemented for climate change mitigation: emission trading systems, tradable energy‐efficiency obligations, and tradable renewable energy quotas. Their track record has been disappointing so far; almost every emission trading has suffered from over‐allocation which has undermined its effectiveness; tradable energy‐efficiency obligations seem to have mostly co‐financed investments that would have taken place anyway; tradable renewable energy quotas suffer from several shortcomings compared to alternative support systems, that is, feed‐in tariffs and premiums. I discuss the reasons for these failures (especially too superficial a reading by policy makers of the work of researchers) and ways to improve the situation (including encouraging systematic syntheses of academic work).

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics of Mitigation
Nitrogen removal performance and characteristics of gel beads immobilized anammox bacteria under different PVA:SA ratios
Authors: Wang Jin , Fan Yu‐Chen , Chen You‐Peng
Published: March 2021

Although polyvinyl alcohol and sodium alginate gel (PVA/SA) cell immobilization technology has been successfully applied in anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) processes, there is no comprehensive evaluation of the PVA:SA ratio in PVA/SA gel beads. Therefore, to determine the optimal PVA:SA ratio, the nitrogen removal performance and structure of PVA/SA anammox gel beads under different PVA:SA ratios were studied through batch experiments. The results suggested that cell immobilization technology could significantly improve the nitrogen removal rate (NRR). PVA concentration was positively correlated with the proportion of ‐macropore in the gel beads but negatively correlated with mechanical strength. Despite having poor mechanical strength, PVA/SA (12%/2%) gel beads had the highest NRR owing to the increased pore size and were experimentally determined to be the most suitable concentration of immobilized carrier. UASB reactor tests showed that compared with anammox granular sludge, the response time of anammox PVA/SA (12%/2%) beads to increased nitrogen load was shorter and the specific anammox activity was higher. Candidatus “Jettenia” was the dominant bacterium in anammox gel beads, accounting for 37.96% of the community. This study provides a reference for preparing PVA/SA cell immobilization.

Practitioner points

Increasing the concentration of PVA can reduce the apoptosis of microorganisms during the gel process.

The macropore of PVA/SA beads increased with the increase of the PVA:SA ratio.

This study provides a reference for preparing PVA/SA gel beads immobilized anammox bacteria.
Structure and properties of fluorinated and non‐fluorinated Ba‐coordination polymers – the position of fluorine makes the difference
Authors: Zänker Steffen , Scholz Gudrun , Xu Wenlei , Emmerling Franziska , Kemnitz Erhard
Published: March 2021

As the most electronegative element, fluorine has a strong influence on material properties such as absorption behaviour or chemical and thermal stability. Fluorine can be easily integrated into coordination polymers (CPs) via a fluorinated acetate, here trifluoroacetate in Ba(CF3COO)2, or directly via a metal fluorine bond (BaF(CH3COO)). In the present study both possibilities of fluorine integration were tested and their effect on structure and properties of barium coordination polymers was investigated in comparison with the non‐fluorinated barium acetate (Ba(CH3COO)2). In addition to the study of their thermal behaviour and their decomposition temperature, the CPs structures were tested for their application as possible anode materials in lithium ion batteries and for their sorption of water and ammonia. The properties of the CPs can be traced back to the individual structural motifs and could thus trigger new design ideas for CPs in LIBs and/or catalysis.
A Formal Model for the Simulation and Analysis of Early Biofilm Formation
Authors: Cerone Antonio , Marsili Enrico
Published: March 2021

Biofilms are structured communities of bacterial cells adherent to a surface. This bacterial state is called sessile.

This paper focuses on the modelling of the transition between planktonic and sessile state using Real-time Maude as the modelling language. With more and more bacteria joining the sessile community, the likelihood of producing a biofilm increases. Once the percentage of bacterial cells that adheres to the surface reaches a threshold, which is specific for the considered bacterium species, a permanent biofilm is formed. An important challenge is to predict the time needed for the formation of a biofilm on a specific surface, in order to plan when the material infrastructure that comprises such a surface needs to be cleaned or replaced. We exploit the model-checking features of Real-time Maude to formally prove that a regular cleaning or replacement of the infrastructure prevents the biofilm formation.
Gauge theory formulation of hyperbolic gravity
Authors: Ferrari Frank
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We formulate the most general gravitational models with constant negative curvature (“hyperbolic gravity”) on an arbitrary orientable two-dimensional surface of genusgwithbcircle boundaries in terms of a PSL(2,ℝ)∂gauge theory of flat connections. This includes the usual JT gravity with Dirichlet boundary conditions for the dilaton field as a special case. A key ingredient is to realize that the correct gauge group is not the full PSL(2,ℝ), but a subgroup PSL(2,ℝ)∂of gauge transformations that go to U(1) local rotations on the boundary. We find four possible classes of boundary conditions, with associated boundary terms, that can be applied to each boundary component independently. Class I has five inequivalent variants, corresponding to geodesic boundaries of fixed length, cusps, conical defects of fixed angle or large cylinder-shaped asymptotic regions with boundaries of fixed lengths and extrinsic curvatures one or greater than one. Class II precisely reproduces the usual JT gravity. In particular, the crucial extrinsic curvature boundary term of the usual second order formulation is automatically generated by the gauge theory boundary term. Class III is a more exotic possibility for which the integrated extrinsic curvature is fixed on the boundary. Class IV is the Legendre transform of class II; the constraint of fixed length is replaced by a boundary cosmological constant term.
High incidence of superficial and deep medial collateral ligament injuries in ‘isolated’ anterior cruciate ligament ruptures: a long overlooked injury
Authors: Willinger Lukas , Balendra Ganesh , Pai Vishal , Lee Justin , Mitchell Adam , Jones Mary , Williams Andy
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, concomitant damage to peripheral soft tissues is associated with increased rotatory instability of the knee. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and patterns of medial collateral ligament complex injuries in patients with clinically ‘isolated’ ACL ruptures.

Methods

Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction for complete ‘presumed isolated’ ACL rupture between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively included in this study. Patient’s characteristics and intraoperative findings were retrieved from clinical and surgical documentation. Preoperative MRIs were evaluated and the grade and location of injuries to the superficial MCL (sMCL), dMCL and the posterior oblique ligament (POL) recorded. All patients were clinically assessed under anaesthesia with standard ligament laxity tests.

Results

Hundred patients with a mean age of 22.3 ± 4.9 years were included. The incidence of concomitant MCL complex injuries was 67%. sMCL injuries occurred in 62%, dMCL in 31% and POL in 11% with various injury patterns. A dMCL injury was significantly associated with MRI grade II sMCL injuries, medial meniscus ‘ramp’ lesions seen at surgery and bone oedema at the medial femoral condyle (MFC) adjacent to the dMCL attachment site (p < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis identified younger age (OR 1.2, p < 0.05), simultaneous sMCL injury (OR 6.75, p < 0.01) and the presence of bone oedema at the MFC adjacent to the dMCL attachment site (OR 5.54, p < 0.01) as predictive factors for a dMCL injury.

Conclusion

The incidence of combined ACL and medial ligament complex injuries is high. Lesions of the dMCL were associated with ramp lesions, MFC bone oedema close to the dMCL attachment, and sMCL injury. Missed AMRI is a risk factor for ACL graft failure from overload and, hence, oedema in the MCL (especially dMCL) demands careful assessment for AMRI, even in the knee lacking excess valgus laxity. This study provides information about specific MCL injury patterns including the dMCL in ACL ruptures and will allow surgeons to initiate individualised treatment.

Level of evidence

III.
Tempered D-modules and Borel–Moore homology vanishing
Authors: Beraldo Dario
Published: March 2021

We characterize the tempered part of the automorphic Langlands category $$\mathfrak {D}({\text {Bun}}_G)$$

D
(

Bun
G

)

using the geometry of the big cell in the affine Grassmannian. We deduce that, for G non-abelian, tempered D-modules have no de Rham cohomology with compact support. The latter fact boils down to a concrete statement, which we prove using the Ran space and some explicit t-structure estimates: for G non-abelian and $$\Sigma $$
Σ
a smooth affine curve, the Borel–Moore homology of the indscheme $${\text {Maps}}(\Sigma ,G)$$

Maps
(
Σ
,
G
)

vanishes.
Spots, stripes, and spiral waves in models for static and motile cells
Authors: Liu Yue , Rens Elisabeth G. , Edelstein-Keshet Leah
Published: March 2021

The polarization and motility of eukaryotic cells depends on assembly and contraction of the actin cytoskeleton and its regulation by proteins called GTPases. The activity of GTPases causes assembly of filamentous actin (by GTPases Cdc42, Rac), resulting in protrusion of the cell edge. Mathematical models for GTPase dynamics address the spontaneous formation of patterns and nonuniform spatial distributions of such proteins in the cell. Here we revisit the wave-pinning model for GTPase-induced cell polarization, together with a number of extensions proposed in the literature. These include introduction of sources and sinks of active and inactive GTPase (by the group of A. Champneys), and negative feedback from F-actin to GTPase activity. We discuss these extensions singly and in combination, in 1D, and 2D static domains. We then show how the patterns that form (spots, waves, and spirals) interact with cell boundaries to create a variety of interesting and dynamic cell shapes and motion.
Correction to: Uniportal Versus Multiportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Lobectomy for Lung Cancer: An Updated Meta-analysis
Authors: Magouliotis Dimitrios E. , Fergadi Maria P. , Spiliopoulos Kyriakos , Athanassiadi Kalliopi
Published: March 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00408-021-00428-8
On the convergence of a Block-Coordinate Incremental Gradient method
Authors: Palagi Laura , Seccia Ruggiero
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we study the convergence of a block-coordinate incremental gradient method. Under some specific assumptions on the objective function, we prove that the block-coordinate incremental gradient method can be seen as a gradient method with errors and convergence can be proved by showing the error at each iteration satisfies some standard conditions. Thus, we can prove convergence towards stationary points when the block incremental gradient method is coupled with a diminishing stepsize and towards an$$\epsilon $$ϵ-approximate solution when a bounded away from zero stepsize is employed.
Phase 1 cohort expansion study of LY3023414, a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, in patients with advanced mesothelioma
Authors: Zauderer Marjorie G. , Alley Evan W. , Bendell Johanna , Capelletto Enrica , Bauer Todd M. , Callies Sophie , Szpurka Anna M. , Kang Suhyun , Willard Melinda D. , Wacheck Volker , Varghese Anna M.
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND LY3023414 is a selective, ATP competitive inhibitor of class I PI3K isoforms, mTORC1/2 and DNA-PK. A Phase 1 dose escalation, 200 mg twice daily (BID) of LY3023414 was the determined recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). We report the antitumor activity and safety of LY3023414 monotherapy in patients with advanced mesothelioma.METHODS Patients enrolled had advanced malignant pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma with measurable disease, ECOG PS 0–1, were refractory or ineligible to receive standard therapies. Patients received LY3023414 200 mg BID. This dose expansion cohort is intended to evaluate preliminary antitumor activity of LY3023414 by overall response rate. Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics were assessed. Biomarkers associated with treatment response was an exploratory endpoint. RESULTS Forty-two patients received LY3023414 for a median duration of 11.2 weeks (range: 1.1–53.0). One patient had a confirmed partial response (PR) (ORR 2.4%). Three patients had an unconfirmed PR. Seventeen patients had stable disease (SD) (DCR 43%). Most common adverse events (AEs) included fatigue (43%), nausea (43%), decreased appetite (38%), vomiting (33%), and diarrhea (29%). AEs were mostly mild or moderate. Grade ≥ 3 AEs were reported for 21% of patients with fatigue as the most frequent event (10%). Alterations of BAP1 were identified in 11/19 patients as the most common molecular aberration, followed by SETD2 and NF2 alterations. No obvious pattern of genetic changes/mutations in single genes or pathways was associated with anti-tumor activity. CONCLUSION LY3023414 monotherapy (200 mg BID) demonstrated an acceptable and manageable safety profile with limited single-agent activity in patients with advanced mesothelioma. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01655225; Date of registration: 19 July 2012.
State of the art for treatment of bony defects around anterior shoulder instability—the American perspective
Authors: Kakazu Rafael , LeVasseur Matthew R. , Arciero Robert A. , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: March 2021

While arthroscopic Bankart repair yields high success rates, bone loss on the glenoid or humeral head can portend a poor outcome. The authors recommend a thorough evaluation including computed tomography (CT) scanning to best evaluate the amount of bone loss. Multiple studies have shown that the outcomes of revision stabilization procedures are inferior to the respective primary procedure; thus, it is of paramount importance to select the correct index procedure to optimize patient outcome. The authors present the American perspective on treating shoulder instability. For patients with a small on-track Hill Sachs lesion and less than 10 % glenoid bone loss, an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair is appropriate. This procedure is also recommended for bony Bankart lesions, as well as in overhead throwing athletes. With an engaging Hill Sachs lesion and less than 15 % glenoid bone loss, the authors recommend the addition of a remplissage to the arthroscopic Bankart repair. For patients with up to 15 % bone loss or following a failed previous arthroscopic repair, the authors advocate for open Bankart repair. They recommend Latarjet in patients with a non-engaging Hill Sachs lesion greater than 15 % bone loss. Patients with bone loss over 30 % would benefit from bone grafting with iliac crest autograft or distal tibia allograft for stabilization. In summary, the authors believe that the index procedure provides an opportunity to optimize patient outcome and careful consideration of the treatment options is warranted.