bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of taxonomic resolution on the value of anthropogenic pollen indicators
Authors: Deza-Araujo Mara , Morales-Molino César , Conedera Marco , Pezzatti Gianni B. , Pasta Salvatore , Tinner Willy
Published: May 2021

The taxonomic resolution of palynological identification is determined by morphological criteria that are used to define pollen types. Different levels of taxonomic resolution are reached in palynology, depending on several factors such as the analyst’s expertise, the palynological school, the aim of the study, the preservation of the pollen grains, the reference collections and the microscope facilities. Previous research has suggested that attaining pollen records with high taxonomic resolution is important to reconstruct correctly past land use and human impact. This is in turn central to disentangling past human activities from other drivers of long-term vegetation dynamics such as natural disturbance or climate variability. In this study, we assess the impact of taxonomic resolution on the indicative capacity of anthropogenic pollen types. To achieve this, we attribute the pollen types of sixteen sedimentary records, located along a latitudinal gradient spanning from Switzerland to Italy, to three levels of taxonomic resolution previously proposed at the European scale. Our results show that higher taxonomic resolution improves the identification of human impact by enhancing the indicative power of important pollen indicators widely used in the research field. Our results may contribute to the improvement of palynological reconstructions of land use and human impact by identifying key pollen types whose determination requires particular attention.
Reducing hospital stay for colorectal surgery in ERAS setting by means of perioperative patient education of expected day of discharge
Authors: Tweed Thaís T. T. , Woortman Carmen , Tummers Stan , Bakens Maikel J. A. M. , van Bastelaar James , Stoot Jan H. M. B.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Despite the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol, length of stay (LOS) after colorectal surgery varies considerably. The majority of longer admissions is often not medically necessary. We aimed to investigate possible reduction of LOS by perioperative education with an expected discharge date (EDD).

Methods

This single-centre retrospective study included 578 patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer in 2016 with standard care (ERAS) and in 2018 with the addition of EDD education program (ERAS+). A comparison was made of a 1-year period prior to and following the implementation of EDD. The EDD was discussed at the outpatient clinic, preoperatively and during admission (with both the patient and family members daily). Standard EDD varied between 3 and 5 days depending on the resection type. Primary outcome was LOS; secondary outcomes were readmission, serious complications and 90-day mortality.

Results

Patients in ERAS+ (n = 242) had a shorter median LOS (4.0 vs. 5.0, p < 0.001) compared to patients in the regular ERAS group (n = 336). Fewer patients of ERAS+ experienced postoperative complications (71 (29.3%) vs. 198 (58.9%), p < 0.001). No difference was found in the number of readmissions (23 (9.5%) vs. 34 (10.1%), p = 0.807), reinterventions (25 (10.3%) vs. 30 (8.9%), p = 0.571) or mortality (5 (2.1%) vs. 9 (2.7%), p = 0.261) between the two groups.

Conclusion

It is possible to reduce LOS within the ERAS program, by better perioperative education and expectation management of patients with use of an EDD. This program ensures better understanding, faster discharge and lower costs for the hospital without added risk of readmissions or complications.
Results from a real-time dosimetry study during left atrial ablations performed with ultra-low dose radiation settings
Authors: Schreiber T. , Kähler N. , Biewener S. , Tscholl V. , Nagel P. , Attanasio P. , Landmesser U. , Huemer M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Three-dimensional mapping systems and the use of ultra-low dose radiation protocols have supported minimization of radiation dose during left atrial ablation procedures. By using optimal shielding, scattered radiation reaching the operator can be further reduced. This prospective study was designed to determine the remaining operator radiation exposure during left atrial catheter ablations using real-time dosimetry.

Methods

Radiation dose was recorded using real-time digital dosimetry badges outside the lead apron during 201 consecutive left atrial fibrillation ablation procedures. All procedures were performed using the same X‑ray system (Siemens Healthineers Artis dBc; Siemens Healthcare AG, Erlangen, Germany) programmed with ultra-low dose radiation settings including a low frame rate (two frames per second), maximum copper filtration, and an optimized detector dose. To reduce scattered radiation to the operators, table-suspended lead curtains, ceiling-suspended leaded plastic shields, and radiation-absorbing shields on the patient were positioned in an overlapping configuration.

Results

The 201 procedures included 139 (69%) pulmonary vein isolations (PVI) (20 cryoballoon ablations, 119 radiofrequency ablations, with 35 cases receiving additional ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus) and 62 (31%) PVI plus further left atrial substrate ablation.

Mean radiation dose measured as dose area product for all procedures was 128.09 ± 187.87 cGy ∙ cm2 with a mean fluoroscopy duration of 9.4 ± 8.7 min. Real-time dosimetry showed very low average operator doses of 0.52 ± 0.10 µSv. A subanalysis of 51 (25%) procedures showed that the radiation burden for the operator was highest during pulmonary vein angiography.

Conclusion

The use of ultra-low dose radiation protocols in combination with optimized shielding results in extremely low scattered radiation reaching the operator.
Missense mutations in small muscle protein X-linked (SMPX) cause distal myopathy with protein inclusions
Authors: Johari Mridul , Sarparanta Jaakko , Vihola Anna , Jonson Per Harald , Savarese Marco , Jokela Manu , Torella Annalaura , Piluso Giulio , Said Edith , Vella Norbert , Cauchi Marija , Magot Armelle , Magri Francesca , Mauri Eleonora , Kornblum Cornelia , Reimann Jens , Stojkovic Tanya , Romero Norma B. , Luque Helena , Huovinen Sanna , Lahermo Päivi , Donner Kati , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Nigro Vincenzo , Hackman Peter , Udd Bjarne
Published: May 2021

Using
deep phenotyping and high-throughput sequencing, we have identified a novel type of distal myopathy caused by mutations in the Small muscle protein X-linked (SMPX) gene. Four different missense mutations were identified in ten patients from nine families in five different countries, suggesting that this disease could be prevalent in other populations as well. Haplotype analysis of patients with similar ancestry revealed two different founder mutations in Southern Europe and France, indicating that the prevalence in these populations may be higher. In our study all patients presented with highly similar clinical features: adult-onset, usually distal more than proximal limb muscle weakness, slowly progressing over decades with preserved walking. Lower limb muscle imaging showed a characteristic pattern of muscle involvement and fatty degeneration. Histopathological and electron microscopic analysis of patient muscle biopsies revealed myopathic findings with rimmed vacuoles and the presence of sarcoplasmic inclusions, some with amyloid-like characteristics. In silico predictions and subsequent cell culture studies showed that the missense mutations increase aggregation propensity of the SMPX protein. In cell culture studies, overexpressed SMPX localized to stress granules and slowed down their clearance.
Fractures of the proximal radius in children: management and results of 100 consecutive cases
Authors: Dietzel Markus , Scherer Simon , Esser Michael , Kirschner Hans-Joachim , Fuchs Jörg , Lieber Justus
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Pediatric radial neck and head fractures are rare, accounting for only 1% of all fractures in children. The aim of this study is to describe the management and results of the respective fracture types and different injury characteristics.

Materials and methods

This study performs a retrospective data analysis of 100 consecutive patients with a fracture of the proximal radius treated in a single high-volume pediatric trauma center.

Results

One hundred patients [mean age 7.5 years (1–15)] were documented with a fracture of the proximal radius between 3/2011 and 12/2019. The gender distribution was 62 girls and 38 boys. Twenty-seven patients had concomitant injuries. Conservative treatment was performed in 63 patients (Judet I = 27; II = 30; III = 6; Mason I = 2) using an above-the-elbow cast for 21 days (6–35). Surgical treatment was performed in 37 patients (Judet II = 3; III = 22; IV = 5; V = 7) using elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN). Open reduction was necessary in five cases, and additional immobilization was performed in 32 cases. Six complications occurred: loss of implant stability (n = 2), healing in malalignment, pseudarthrosis, radioulnar synostosis, and a persisting hypoesthesia at the thumb. As a result, two ESIN osteosynthesis were revised, and one radial head resection was performed. Loss of movement was seen in 11% of cases, overall Mayo elbow performance index (MEPI) was 99.8 (90–100), and none of the patients experienced negative impacts on activities of daily life.

Conclusions

Proximal radial fractures occur predominately without dislocation. Good results are obtained with conservative treatment throughout. In cases with displacement exceeding growth-related correction, ESIN is the undisputed treatment of choice. Open surgery and long immobilization periods should be avoided whenever possible.
Psychosocial barriers and facilitators for a successful return to work following injury within firefighters
Authors: Noll Liam , Mallows Adrian , Moran Jason
Published: May 2021

Objective

The aim was to explore firefighter’s experiences during their recovery from injury. Focused specifically on exploring perceived psychosocial barriers and facilitators firefighters faced during recovery and return to work.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were used to provide an in-depth understanding of the firefighter’s experiences. The semi-structured interviews were informed by a topic guide. The topic guide focused on five main themes, (1) overall experience of returning to operational duties following an injury, (2) perceived barriers experienced during their return to work, (3) perceived facilitators experienced during their return to work, (4) confidence in participating in physical activity following injury and (5) where they felt areas of improvement could be made with the return to work process. Thematic analysis of the data collected was undertaken using The Framework Method.

Results

Two main themes were sought after transcription: barriers and facilitators. From these, nine subthemes were identified (1) communication, (2) confidence in physical activity participation, (3) modified duties, (4) physiotherapy, (5) return to operational duties, (6) support, (7) inconsistency, (8) use of station gyms, (9) detachment from the watch.

Conclusions

Consideration should be made for the consistency of procedures followed during an individual’s return to work following an injury. Further research is needed to understand if the themes identified in this study are the same for other fire services. Further research is also needed to understand how the findings may be best implemented within the fire service.
Cytoplasmic DDX3 as prognosticator in male breast cancer
Authors: van der Pol Carmen C. , Moelans Cathy B. , Manson Quirine F. , Batenburg Marilot C. T. , van der Wall Elsken , Borel Rinkes Inne , Verkooijen Lenny , Raman Venu , van Diest Paul J.
Published: May 2021

Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare disease. Due to its rarity, treatment is still directed by data mainly extrapolated from female breast cancer (FBC) treatment, despite the fact that it has recently become clear that MBC has its own molecular characteristics. DDX3 is a RNA helicase with tumor suppressor and oncogenic potential that was described as a prognosticator in FBC and can be targeted by small molecule inhibitors of DDX3. The aim of this study was to evaluate if DDX3 is a useful prognosticator for MBC patients. Nuclear as well as cytoplasmic DDX3 expression was studied by immunohistochemistry in a Dutch retrospective cohort of 106 MBC patients. Differences in 10-year survival by DDX3 expression were analyzed using log-rank test. The association between clinicopathologic variables, DDX3 expression, and survival was tested in uni- and multivariate Cox-regression analysis. High cytoplasmic DDX3 was associated with high androgen receptor (AR) expression while low nuclear DDX3 was associated with negative lymph node status. Nuclear and cytoplasmic DDX3 were not associated with each other. In a univariate analysis, high cytoplasmic DDX3 (p = 0.045) was significantly associated with better 10-year overall survival. In multivariate analyses, cytoplasmic DDX3 had independent prognostic value (p = 0.017). In conclusion, cytoplasmic DDX3 expression seems to be a useful prognosticator in MBC, as high cytoplasmic DDX3 indicated better 10-year survival.
On the Stability of Interval Decomposable Persistence Modules
Authors: Bakke Bjerkevik Håvard
Published: May 2021

The algebraic stability theorem for persistence modules is a central result in the theory of stability for persistent homology. We introduce a new proof technique which we use to prove a stability theorem for n-dimensional rectangle decomposable persistence modules up to a constant $$2n-1$$

2
n
-
1

that generalizes the algebraic stability theorem, and give an example showing that the bound cannot be improved for $$n=2$$

n
=
2

. We then apply the technique to prove stability for block decomposable modules, from which novel results for zigzag modules and Reeb graphs follow. These results are improvements on weaker bounds in previous work, and the bounds we obtain are optimal.
Epidural steroid compared to placebo injection in sciatica: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Verheijen E. J. A. , Bonke C. A. , Amorij E. M. J. , Vleggeert-Lankamp C. L. A.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine whether epidural steroid injections (ESI) are superior to epidural or non-epidural placebo injections in sciatica patients.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of science databases were searched for trials comparing ESI to epidural or non-epidural placebo. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. The primary outcome measures were pooled using a random-effects model for 6-week, 3-month, and 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes were described qualitatively. Quality of evidence was graded using GRADE classification.

Results

Seventeen out of 732 articles were included. ESI was superior compared to epidural placebo at 6 weeks (− 8.6 [− 13.4; − 3.9]) and 3 months (− 5.2 [− 10.1; − 0.2]) for leg pain and at 6 weeks for functional status (− 4.1 [− 6.5; − 1.6]), though the minimally clinical important difference (MCID) was not met. There was no difference in ESI and placebo for back pain, except for non-epidural placebo at 3 months (6.9 [1.3; 12.5]). Proportions of treatment success were not different. ESI reduced analgesic intake in some studies and complication rates are low.

Conclusion

The literature indicates that ESI induces larger improvements in pain and disability on the short term compared to epidural placebo, though evidence is of low to moderate quality and MCID is not met. Strong conclusions for longer follow-up or for comparisons with non-epidural placebo cannot be drawn due to general low quality of evidence and limited number of studies. Epidural injections can be considered a safe therapy.
A voltammetric sensor based on mixed proton-electron conducting composite including metal-organic framework JUK-2 for determination of citalopram
Authors: Madej Maria , Matoga Dariusz , Skaźnik Klaudia , Porada Radosław , Baś Bogusław , Kochana Jolanta
Published: May 2021

A voltammetric sensor has been developed based on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modification with nanocomposite consisting of manganese-based metal-organic framework (JUK-2), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for detection of citalopram (CIT). The composition and morphology of JUK-2-MWCNTs-AuNPs/GCE were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrochemical properties investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) indicated that the fabricated hybrid material exhibits the properties of mixed ion-electron conductor (MIEC). Using staircase voltammetry (SCV), under optimized conditions, the fabricated sensor shows a linear response in three CIT concentration ranges, 0.05–1.0, 1.0–10.0 and 15.0–115.0 μmol L−1, with a detection limit of 0.011 μmol L−1. The JUK-2-MWCNTs-AuNPs/GCE was successfully employed for the determination of CIT in pharmaceutical, environmental waters, and biological samples with satisfactory recoveries (98.6–104.8%).

Graphical abstract
Preoperative measurements on MRI in Chiari 1 patients fail to predict outcome after decompressive surgery
Authors: Jussila Miro-Pekka , Nissilä Juho , Vakkuri Minna , Olsén Päivi , Niinimäki Jaakko , Leinonen Ville , Serlo Willy , Salokorpi Niina , Suo-Palosaari Maria
Published: May 2021

Background

The purpose of our study was to research the parameters of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that would predict the outcome of surgery in patients with Chiari 1 malformation (CM1) and to evaluate changes in MRI parameters after surgery.

Methods

Fifty-one patients (19 children, 13 adolescents, and 19 adults) operated on due to CM1 in Oulu University Hospital between 2004 and 2018 were evaluated. Seventeen parameters were measured from the preoperative MRI and 11 from the postoperative MRI. The correlations between the MRI parameters and the clinical variables before and after surgery were analyzed.

Results

The majority (88.2%) of the patients had favorable surgical outcomes. Postoperatively, subjective symptoms improved in 88.6% of the patients and syringomyelia in 81.8%. The location of the cerebellar tonsils, when measured in relation to the C2 synchondrosis or the end plate, postoperatively moved cranially in 51.0% (n = 26), did not change in 27.4% (n = 14), and moved caudally in 21.6% (n = 11) of the patients. However, neither the location of the tonsils nor any other parameters measured from pre- or postoperative MRI correlated with the patients’ symptoms or surgical outcomes.

Conclusions

No specific parameters on preoperative MRI evaluation were predictive of the outcome of surgery, emphasizing clinical examination in surgical decision-making. Furthermore, the postoperative MRI parameters did not correlate with the surgical outcomes. Thus, routine postoperative imaging is suggested only for patients with preoperatively diagnosed syringomyelia or worsening of symptoms.
Clinical study on swallowing function of brainstem stroke by tDCS
Authors: Mao Huiwen , Lyu Yi , Li Yan , Gan Lin , Ni Jiawei , Liu Liang , Xiao Zhengguang
Published: May 2021

Objective

To investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with conventional comprehensive rehabilitation on dysphagia after brainstem stroke.

Materials and methods

Forty brainstem stroke patients were randomly divided into tDCS group and conventional comprehensive treatment group, including 20 patients in each group. Both groups were given routine swallowing function training, and tDCS group added transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). The Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS) and Functional Dysphagia Scale (FDS) were evaluated respectively before and after 8 weeks of continuous treatment with VFSS. The white blood cell (WBC), c-reactive protein, prealbumin (PAB), albumin (Alb), and hemoglobin (Hb) were also compared between the two groups before and after 8 weeks of continuous treatment.

Results

After 8 consecutive weeks of treatment, the score of DOSS scale and FDS scale in both groups was improved (P < 0.05), WBC and CRP were decreased (P < 0.05), and Alb and Hb were improved (P < 0.05), and PAB had no differences (P=0.474). The tDCS group was superior to conventional comprehensive group in improving the swallowing function and nutritional indexes (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

tDCS therapy combined with routine training can improve the swallowing function and nutritional status of patients, and reduce infection.
Current trend in treatment of glioblastoma in Japan: a national survey using the diagnostic procedure combination database (J-ASPECT study-glioblastoma)
Authors: Funakoshi Yusuke , Hata Nobuhiro , Kuga Daisuke , Hatae Ryusuke , Sangatsuda Yuhei , Fujioka Yutaka , Takigawa Kosuke , Yoshimoto Koji , Mizoguchi Masahiro , Iihara Koji
Published: May 2021

Background

In the treatment for glioblastoma (GBM), treatment modalities, such as bevacizumab (BEV) and carmustine wafers implants have been approved in Japan since 2013. However, it is unclear whether such a trend in treatment complexity can accelerate treatment centralization. The aim of this study was to reveal the current trend in the treatment of GBM in Japan.

Methods

We used diagnostic procedure combination (DPC) database to analyze the data of 1,774 patients from 305 institutions between April 2016 and March 2019. To analyze the situations associated with first-line BEV use during concurrent TMZ (temozolomide)-radiotherapy, we compared TMZ alone and TMZ–BEV groups.

Results

Of the 1,774 patients with GBM, tumor removal by craniotomy was performed in 1,572 (88.6%) patients, and stereotactic biopsy was performed in 156 (8.8%) patients. A total of 1,229 (69.3%) patients underwent radiotherapy, and 1,287 (72.5%) patients underwent chemotherapy. TMZ alone was administered to 878 (68.2%) and TMZ combined with BEV in 381 (29.6%) patients. In the TMZ–BEV group, as compared to the TMZ-alone group, the rate of discharge to home was significantly lower (P = 0.0044), and the rate of stereotactic biopsy was significantly higher (P < 0.0001). No significant difference was observed in the distribution of patients between the TMZ alone and TMZ–BEV groups depending on the scale of institution (P = 0.1240).

Conclusion

First-line BEV administration seems to be selected properly regardless of the institutional scale. This Japan-wide study of GBM treatment revealed that high level and newly introduced treatments have been steadily generalized in Japanese institutions.
Student dropout at university: a phase-orientated view on quitting studies and changing majors
Authors: Bäulke Lisa , Grunschel Carola , Dresel Markus
Published: May 2021

Student dropout can be conceptualized as a decision-making process, consisting of different phases. Based on previous literature on student dropout, decision-making, and action-phases, we proposed that the process of developing dropout intentions includes the following phases: non-fit perception, thoughts of quitting/changing, deliberation, information search, and a final decision. In the present cross-sectional study, we empirically investigated if the assumed phases can be distinguished from each other, if the phases follow the presumed order, and whether each phase is associated with certain characteristics. Furthermore, we considered a strict separation between quitting studies completely and changing a major. For this purpose, we analyzed data of N = 1005 students (average age of 23.0 years; 53% female; 47% male) from a German University. By using confirmatory factor analyses, we found the supposed factor structure for the different phases concerning both kinds of dropout, quitting studies, and changing majors. In each process, structural equation modelling indicated positive relations between adjoining phases. The factor values correlated to a substantial amount with an assortment of variables associated with student dropout. On a theoretical level, the conception of different phases of student dropout helps to get a better understanding of regulatory processes in the context of student dropout.
Diauxic Inhibition: Jacques Monod's Ignored Work
Authors: Blaiseau Pierre Louis , Holmes Allyson M.
Published: May 2021

Diauxie is at the origin of research that led Jacques Monod (1910–1976), François Jacob (1920–2013), and André Lwoff (1902–1994) to win the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1965 for their description of the first genetic regulatory model. Diauxie is a term coined by Jacques Monod in 1941 in his doctoral dissertation that refers to microbial growth in two phases. In this article, we first examine Monod’s thesis to demonstrate how and why Monod interpreted diauxie as a phenomenon of enzyme inhibition or suppression of adaptive enzymes. We also briefly investigate prior enzyme suppression studies, before Monod’s work, which indicate that he is the first person to observe diauxic growth. Second, we analyse Monod’s post-thesis publications throughout his scientific career, revealing that diauxic inhibition was a significant part of Monod’s scientific activities and greatly fascinated Monod until the end of his life. Paradoxically, Monod’s work and interest on diauxic inhibition are still neglected in historical recounts, focused mostly on Monod’s enzymatic adaptation studies. Indeed, we uncovered a statement by Monod’s colleague, Lwoff, who transformed a quotation from Monod by replacing the word phenomenon with enzymatic adaptation, which we believe has influenced historians. Finally, we offer hypotheses to explain why Lwoff altered Monod’s statement.
3D-printing on textiles – an investigation on adhesion properties of the produced composite materials
Authors: Gorlachova Maryna , Mahltig Boris
Published: May 2021

The actual paper is related to adhesive properties of 3D objects printed on cotton textile fabrics. For practical applications of 3D prints in the textile sector, the adhesion of the printed object on the textile substrate is an important issue. In the current study, two different types of polymers are printed on cotton – polylactide acid (PLA) and polyamide 6.6 (Nylon). Altogether six cotton fabrics differing in structure, weight and thickness are evaluated. Also, the effect of washing and enzymatic desizing is investigated. For printing parameters, best results are gained for elevated process temperatures, intermediate printing speed and low Z-distance between printing head and substrate. Also, a textile treatment by washing and desizing can improve the adhesion of an afterwards applied 3D print. The presented results are quite useful for future developments of 3D printing applications on textile substrates, e.g. to implement new decorative features or protective functions.
Earthquake location in tectonic structures of the Alpine Chain: the case of the Constance Lake (Central Europe) seismic sequence
Authors: D’Ajello Caracciolo Francesca , Console Rodolfo
Published: May 2021

A set of four magnitude Ml ≥ 3.0 earthquakes including the magnitude Ml = 3.7 mainshock of the seismic sequence hitting the Lake Constance, Southern Germany, area in July–August 2019 was studied by means of bulletin and waveform data collected from 86 seismic stations of the Central Europe-Alpine region. The first single-event locations obtained using a uniform 1-D velocity model, and both fixed and free depths, showed residuals of the order of up ± 2.0 s, systematically affecting stations located in different areas of the study region. Namely, German stations to the northeast of the epicenters and French stations to the west exhibit negative residuals, while Italian stations located to the southeast are characterized by similarly large positive residuals. As a consequence, the epicentral coordinates were affected by a significant bias of the order of 4–5 km to the NNE. The locations were repeated applying a method that uses different velocity models for three groups of stations situated in different geological environments, obtaining more accurate locations. Moreover, the application of two methods of relative locations and joint hypocentral determination, without improving the absolute location of the master event, has shown that the sources of the four considered events are separated by distances of the order of one km both in horizontal coordinates and in depths. A particular attention has been paid to the geographical positions of the seismic stations used in the locations and their relationship with the known crustal features, such as the Moho depth and velocity anomalies in the studied region. Significant correlations between the observed travel time residuals and the crustal structure were obtained.
Scan Once, Analyse Many: Using Large Open-Access Neuroimaging Datasets to Understand the Brain
Authors: Madan Christopher R.
Published: May 2021

We are now in a time of readily available brain imaging data. Not only are researchers now sharing data more than ever before, but additionally large-scale data collecting initiatives are underway with the vision that many future researchers will use the data for secondary analyses. Here I provide an overview of available datasets and some example use cases. Example use cases include examining individual differences, more robust findings, reproducibility–both in public input data and availability as a replication sample, and methods development. I further discuss a variety of considerations associated with using existing data and the opportunities associated with large datasets. Suggestions for further readings on general neuroimaging and topic-specific discussions are also provided.
Dem Anfang auf der Spur — die Suche nach DNA-Replikationsursprüngen
Authors: Kruse Elisabeth , Hamperl Stephan
Published: May 2021

Timely and accurate duplication of DNA prior to cell division is a prerequisite for propagation of the genetic material to both daughter cells. DNA synthesis initiates at discrete sites, termed replication origins, and proceeds in a bidirectional manner until all genomic DNA is replicated. Despite the fundamental nature of these events, a uniform method that identifies origins of replication in a comprehensive manner is still missing. Here, we present currently available and discuss new approaches to map replication origins in mammalian genomes.
Mit Tropfenmikrofluidik zu Hochgeschwindigkeits-Biotechnologie
Authors: Kästner Bianka , Hengoju Sundar , Svensson Carl-Magnus , Figge Marc Thilo , Rosenbaum Miriam A.
Published: May 2021

In recent years, microfluidic technologies were introduced for massively parallel cultivation and screening approaches. Individual cells can easily be singularized, compartmentalized, and cultivated from mixed inocula using droplet microfluidics. The generation of millions of droplets in a high-throughput manner enables studying diverse samples and combining the evaluation of genetic and phenotypic variants. It is a powerful tool to explore and exploit natural metabolic diversity.
Spatial analysis of atmospheric discharges in Lubelszczyzna in 2018
Authors: Misztal Kamil , Siłuch Marcin
Published: May 2021

The aim of the study was to analyse lightning discharges over the Lublin region in 2018 using GIS tools. The methods and systems for detection and location of lightning discharges were presented. The impact of terrain coverage, height above sea level, and location of transceiver stations of mobile operators on the occurrence of discharges was shown. The study provides knowledge of theoretically safer areas and those particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes. Additionally, statistics related to lightning discharges over the Lublin region in 2018 were presented. The analyses were carried out on vector data on the atmospheric discharges, vector data from the transceiver stations, vector data containing information on administrative units, and data from the CORINE Land Cover 2018 and on the digital elevation model. The results of the analyses confirmed that areas of airports are particularly exposed to lightning strikes, whereas beaches and sand dunes are the safest areas. It was also found that lightning strikes more often hit coniferous forests than deciduous forests. As indicated by the statistics, May is the month with the largest number of stormy days, while the largest number of lightning strikes is July.
Annual effective dose from 222Rn in groundwater of a Nigeria University campus area
Authors: Isinkaye Matthew O. , Matthew-Ojelabi Fadeke , Adegun Clement O. , Fasanmi Paulinah O. , Adeleye Fatai A. , Olowomofe Olawale G.
Published: May 2021

Radon, the heaviest among the noble gases in the periodic table of element is a radioactive nuclide that is naturally available in rocks, soil and water. It has become the subject of many research efforts in recent years due to its leading role in causing cancer. In this study, a total of 68 groundwater samples were collected and assayed using alpha spectrometry with RAD7 radon detector with RAD-H2O accessories manufactured by Durridge CO (USA). The 222Rn concentration measured were in the range of 0.6–36.2 Bq L−1 with an average of 13.33 Bq L−1, 7.0–41.5 Bq L−1 with mean value 23.3 Bq L−1 and 0.6–27.4 Bq L−1 with an average value of 7.4 Bq L−1 for hand dug wells (HDW), hand pumped boreholes (HPB) and motorized boreholes (MBH), respectively. About 54, 86 and 15% of samples from the HDW, HPB and MBH, respectively, exceeded the parametric reference level of 11.1 Bq L−1 suggested by United State of America Environmental Protection Agency but lower than the permissible limit of 100 Bq L−1 by World Health Organization (WHO) and European Union. The average annual effective doses resulting from inhalation and ingestion of radon in water obtained for the three groundwater sources are less than recommended limits by WHO and ICRP. The data obtained from this study are comparable with similar studies conducted in Nigeria and other parts of the world as reported in literature. Continuous radon monitoring in drinking water and indoor environment is however recommended for the study area.
MT1JP-mediated miR-24-3p/BCL2L2 axis promotes Lenvatinib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by inhibiting apoptosis
Authors: Yu Ting , Yu Jiajian , Lu Lu , Zhang Yize , Zhou Yadong , Zhou Yong , Huang Fengling , Sun Lu , Guo Zhixian , Hou Guojun , Dong Zihui , Wang Bibo
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Lenvatinib is a long-awaited alternative to Sorafenib for first-line targeted therapy of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, resistance to Lenvatinib results in tumor progression and has become a major obstacle to improving the prognosis of HCC patients. Exploring the mechanisms underlying Lenvatinib resistance is considered essential for the treatment of advanced HCC.

Methods

Lenvatinib resistant HCC (LR-HCC) cells were generated and potential long non-coding RNAs (Lnc-RNAs) upregulated in LR-HCC cells were identified by RNA sequencing. The effects of upregulated Lnc-RNAs were evaluated in vitro in cell models and in vivo in experimental animals using quantitative cell viability and apoptosis assays.

Results

We found that Lnc-RNA MT1JP (MT1JP) was upregulated in LR-HCC cells and inhibited the apoptosis signaling pathway. In addition, we found that sponging of microRNA-24-3p by MT1JP released Bcl-2 like 2 (BCL2L2), an anti-apoptotic protein, thereby forming a positive-feedback loop. The role of this feedback loop was validated using rescue assays. Additionally, we found that upregulation of MT1JP and BCL2L2 impaired the sensitivity of HCC cells to Lenvatinib both vitro and vivo.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a novel molecular feedback loop between MT1JP and apoptosis signaling in Lenvatinib sensitive HCC cells.
Promoting equity in retreat through voluntary property buyout programs
Authors: Kraan Caroline M. , Hino Miyuki , Niemann Jennifer , Siders A. R. , Mach Katharine J.
Published: May 2021

Voluntary property buyouts have been the most prevalent form of managed retreat in the USA to date. Tens of thousands of households have sold their flood-prone homes to the government, and after the structures are demolished, the land becomes open space. Concerns have been raised about the equity of buyout processes and outcomes, spanning distributive, procedural, and interactional dimensions of social justice. In this policy analysis, we first provide an overview of equity and justice issues in buyouts based on existing literature. We consider multiple relevant stakeholder groups: the communities in which buyouts occur, potential participants and relocating households, residents who choose to stay, and the destination communities. Second, we present policy options that may address and reduce existing social inequities in buyouts. Third, we outline how improved reporting on buyout programs by implementers can support buyout policy learning that will improve buyout outcomes and equity. Indicators can provide insight on who has access to buyouts, the effect of buyout implementation on outcomes, and the consequences of relocating—or not—for all affected. With increasing climate risks, voluntary property buyouts will remain an important means of reducing exposure to flooding and other hazards. For this method of retreat to occur effectively at greater scale, attention to social justice in program evaluation and policy learning is necessary.
Fast prototyping of a local fuzzy search system for decision support and retraining of hospital staff during pandemic
Authors: Bakin Evgeny A. , Stanevich Oksana V. , Danilenko Daria M. , Lioznov Dmitry A. , Kulikov Alexander N.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic showed an urgent need for decision support systems to help doctors at a time of stress and uncertainty. However, significant differences in hospital conditions, as well as skepticism of doctors about machine learning algorithms, limit their introduction into clinical practice. Our goal was to test and apply the principle of ”patient-like-mine” decision support in rapidly changing conditions of a pandemic.

Methods

In the developed system we implemented a fuzzy search that allows a doctor to compare their medical case with similar cases recorded in their medical center since the beginning of the pandemic. Various distance metrics were tried for obtaining clinically relevant search results. With the use of R programming language, we designed the first version of the system in approximately a week. A set of features for the comparison of the cases was selected with the use of random forest algorithm implemented in Caret. Shiny package was chosen for the design of GUI.

Results

The deployed tool allowed doctors to quickly estimate the current conditions of their patients by means of studying the most similar previous cases stored in the local health information system. The extensive testing of the system during the first wave of COVID-19 showed that this approach helps not only to draw a conclusion about the optimal treatment tactics and to train medical staff in real-time but also to optimize patients’ individual testing plans.

Conclusions

This project points to the possibility of rapid prototyping and effective usage of ”patient-like-mine” search systems at the time of a pandemic caused by a poorly known pathogen.
Correction to: Patient Preferences in Rare Diseases: A Qualitative Study in Neuromuscular Disorders to Inform a Quantitative Preference Study
Authors: Jimenez-Moreno A. Cecilia , van Overbeeke Eline , Pinto Cathy Anne , Smith Ian , Sharpe Jenny , Ormrod James , Whichello Chiara , de Bekker-Grob Esther W. , Bullok Kristin , Levitan Bennett , Huys Isabelle , de Wit G. Ardine , Gorman Grainne
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40271-021-00523-1
Institutional Review Board Preparedness for Disaster Research: a Practical Approach
Authors: Packenham Joan P. , Rosselli Richard , Fothergill Alice , Slutsman Julia , Ramsey Steve , Hall Janet E. , Miller Aubrey
Published: May 2021

Purpose of Review

Disasters are becoming more common and challenge national and global resiliency and response efforts. As a result, government agencies have increased interest in disaster research to understand their environmental impact and health-related consequences. With the research field greatly expanding, Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are being asked to review research protocols aimed at assessing health risks, exposures, and outcomes from disaster survivors. Few IRBs have experience reviewing disaster research protocols. This article describes approaches for IRB preparedness in reviewing disaster research.

Recent Findings

From a human research protections perspective, primary attention has focused on vulnerability of individuals and/or populations affected by a disaster who may serve as research participants [3, 4]. From our review of the current literature, there is a lack of best practices and/or guidance for IRBs in the review of disaster research protocols.

The growth of the disaster research field has brought more attention to potential ethical concerns of disaster research studies. Disaster survivors, responders, and those that assist in cleanup and remedial efforts may be left with significant unmet needs and long-term physical and emotional challenges as a result of their experiences. It is important for IRBs and investigators to collaboratively address how best to protect the welfare of individuals and communities affected by a disaster. A new approach is needed to systematically consider the various factors relevant to an assessment of human research protection issues following disasters.
Retrieval Practice for Improving Long-Term Retention in Anatomical Education: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Azzam Mohammad B. , Easteal Ronald A.
Published: May 2021

It is generally assumed by students that learning takes place during repeated episodes of rereading and rote memorization of course materials. Over the past few decades, however, research has increasingly indicated that the said notion can and should be enhanced with learning paradigms such as retrieval practice (RP). RP occurs when students practice retrieving their consolidated semantic memories by informally testing themselves. This strategy results in the re-encoding and re-consolidation of existing semantic memories, thus strengthening their schemas. The purpose of this quasi-experimental design was to assess the effects of the implementation of RP on student performance on the final exam in a large, undergraduate Gross Anatomy course. It was hypothesized that student participation in RP during class would improve their performance on the final exam in the course. The participants (N = 248) were mainly in Life Sciences, Kinesiology, and Physical Education programs. They answered RP questions using TopHat©, an online educational software platform. The results of this study indicated that student performance on the final exam was enhanced when students engaged in RP. It was concluded that the use of RP effectively enhances learning and long-term retention of semantic memory. In addition to the traditional testing ‘of’ learning, teachers are encouraged to implement testing, in the form of RP, in their classrooms ‘for’ learning.
Are We Seeing Dematerialization of World GDP?
Authors: Hannesson Rögnvaldur
Published: May 2021

Production of commodities and industrial products typically declines in relative terms as countries get richer. Does this mean that economic growth will become dematerialized and take place without being accompanied by a rise in the use of materials? Do we see signs of this already happening? We look at the production of cement and thirteen minerals 1960–2019 and find no evidence of dematerialization. Production of cement and eight minerals has grown more rapidly than world GDP and that of three minerals more rapidly than world population. Extraction of most minerals has accelerated rather than stagnated since the turn of the century.
Recovering contemporary genre histories – the development of chick lit as seen through the internet archive’s wayback machine and wikipedia’s history page
Authors: Folie Sandra
Published: May 2021

In the perception of literary scholars, the investigation of genre histories is still closely linked to ‘offline’ archival work. However, the Internet has been publicly accessible since 1991, and over the last thirty years, numerous new literary genres have emerged. They have often been proclaimed, defined, spread, marketed, criticized, and even pronounced dead online. By now, a great deal of this digital material is said to have disappeared. What many scholars do not consider, however, is that parts of the web are archived, for example by the Internet Archive and Wikipedia, which make their archives publicly available via the Wayback Machine and the history page respectively. This makes it possible to track early online definitions of contemporary genres and their development. In this paper, I will use the chick lit genre, which emerged in the second half of the 1990s, as a case study to show the benefits of including web archives in the reconstruction of contemporary genre histories. An analysis of both the first extensive and long-running fan websites, which are now offline but well-documented in the Internet Archive, and the history page of the Wikipedia article on chick lit will challenge some of the narratives that have long dominated chick lit research.
A Faithful Mechanism for Incremental Multi-Agent Agreement Problems with Self-Interested and Privacy-Preserving Agents
Authors: Farhadi Farzaneh , Jennings Nicholas R.
Published: May 2021

Distributed multi-agent agreement problems (MAPs) are central to many multi-agent systems. However, to date, the issues associated with encounters between self-interested and privacy-preserving agents have received limited attention. Given this, we develop the first distributed negotiation mechanism that enables self-interested agents to reach a socially desirable agreement with limited information leakage. The agents’ optimal negotiation strategies in this mechanism are investigated. Specifically, we propose a reinforcement learning-based approach to train agents to learn their optimal strategies in the proposed mechanism. Also, a heuristic algorithm is designed to find close-to-optimal negotiation strategies with reduced computational costs. We demonstrate the effectiveness and strength of our proposed mechanism through both game theoretical and numerical analysis. We prove theoretically that the proposed mechanism is budget balanced and motivates the agents to participate and follow the rules faithfully. The experimental results confirm that the proposed mechanism significantly outperforms the current state of the art, by increasing the social-welfare and decreasing the privacy leakage.