bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facing TBL with IoT: creating value and positively impacting business processes
Authors: Mattera Marina , Gava Luana
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze how Internet of Things can contribute to the achievement of a sustainable development based on people, profit and planet. Based on the triple bottom line theoretical framework, this work explores the relation between technology and the creation of value in management operative and support processes carried out by a firm with a direct impact in society and the environment. By doing so, new insights on strategic management to create value and consolidate sustainable business models are provided.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study analyzes firms within the context of the European Union, considering the involvement of the region in achieving sustainable development, in particular, the usage of technology and specifically Internet of Things to create value and contribute to company’s position as leaders in the industry’s change toward sustainable development. To achieve this goal, the Spanish market was analyzed, specifically companies who were publicly listed in the IBEX35, which is the benchmark stock market index of Spain’s main stock exchange (Bolsa de Madrid). In addition, firms were also considered regarding the strong impact within their industries not only nationally, but also worldwide.

Findings

Findings show that companies incorporating Internet of Things can enhance their role as leaders in change toward sustainable development. Similarly, the usage of these technologies positively impacts the pollution reduction and limiting usage of non-renewable resources, as well as positively impacting people’s lives. Furthermore, technology has a positive effect on the creation of value, considering management, operative and support processes. By considering people and planet, companies can have a profitable business model that is also sustainable in the long-run, creating a win-win situation within the triple bottom line.

Originality/value

This study shows the links between Internet of Things and sustainable development within the framework of the triple bottom line. It portrays the relevance of technology in value creation to achieve business models that can cater to profit, people and planet objectives. Consequently, practitioners can incorporate Internet of Things elements to create value and contribute to their corporate social responsibility objectives, establishing synergies between managerial and socio-environmental aspects. Moreover, researchers studying business strategy can incorporate these variables to further enlarge the results herein derived. Finally, this work reinforces the usage of triple bottom line theory to analyze a firm’s sustainable development and its business models.
Petroleum Geology in Deepwater Settings in a Passive Continental Margin of a Marginal Sea: A Case Study from the South China Sea
Authors: ZHANG Gongcheng , FENG Congjun , YAO Xingzong , JI Mo , YANG Haizhang , QU Hongjun , ZENG Qingbo , ZHAO Zhao , SUN Rui
Published: January 2021

Deepwater oil and gas exploration has become a global hotspot in recent years and the study of the deep waters of marginal seas is an important frontier research area. The South China Sea (SCS) is a typical marginal sea that includes Paleo SCS and New SCS tectonic cycles. The latter includes continental marginal rifting, intercontinental oceanic expansion and oceanic shrinking, which controlled the evolution of basins, and the generation, migration and accumulation of hydrocarbons in the deepwater basins on the continental margin of the northern SCS. In the Paleogene, the basins rifted along the margin of the continent and were filled mainly with sediments in marine‐continental transitional environments. In the Neogene–Quaternary, due to thermal subsidence, neritic‐abyssal facies sediments from the passive continental margin of the SCS mainly filled the basins. The source rocks include mainly Oligocene coal‐bearing deltaic and marine mudstones, which were heated by multiple events with high geothermal temperature and terrestrial heat flow, resulting in the generation of gas and oil. The faults, diapirs and sandstones controlled the migration of hydrocarbons that accumulated principally in a large canyon channel, a continental deepwater fan, and a shelf‐margin delta.
Seismic Recognition and Origin of Miocene Meishan Formation Contourite Deposits in the Southern Qiongdongnan Basin, Northern South China Sea
Authors: FENG Yangwei , REN Yan , LYU Chengfu , ZHANG Peng , CHEN Ying , JIN Li
Published: January 2021

Research into the contourite deposits in the Upper Meishan Formation of the southern Qiongdongnan Basin in South China Sea is weak; their characteristics, distribution and original geological conditions are not clear. Using geological and geophysical methods including seismic and drilling data, based on seismic reflection characteristics, geometrical configuration description, and wave impedance inversion, two types of contourite deposits are recognized. Contourite deposits have blurred boundaries between each deposit and disordered internal seismic reflections; They are mound‐shaped only in transverse section, and banded in the longitudinal direction. Type I contourite deposits are conical, with medium‐high amplitude, low‐continuity, low‐frequency mound‐shaped seismic facies, and subparallel‐chaotic reflections internally. These deposits are conical with sharp tops, the canal between mounds is V‐shaped and deep. The western wing is gentle and the eastern wing is steep, with the slope toe mostly between 10° and 20°, and width height ratio about 1–2. Type II contourite deposits are flat, exhibiting medium‐amplitude, medium‐continuity, low‐frequency mound‐shaped seismic facies, with subparallel weak reflections internally. Their mounds are flat with gently arced tops, with shallow canals between. The slope toe is between 5° and 10°, with a width height ratio of about 2–5. The wave impedance value of these contourite deposits is 4.6 kg/m3×m/s to 6.8 kg/m3×m/s, about 5.8 kg/m3×m/s on average, which is presumed to represent marly‐calcareous clastic sediments. The contourite deposits mainly develop beneath the slope break at the margin of the fault‐controlled platform in the Southern Uplift zone of the basin. In plane view, they are distributed approaching a west‐to‐east direction, and in section, lie in low‐lying areas near the faults at fault‐controlled terraces of the Southern Uplift zone, with a paleo‐current direction nearly west‐to‐east. The paleotectonic setting of the gentle monoclinic platform was favorable for the development of such contourite deposits. The intensification of the Mid‐Miocene deepest bottom current gave rise to the contourite‐forming currents around the Southern Uplift zone in the northern South China Sea, which flow from Hainan Island to the Xisha Trough in a nearly west‐to‐east direction leading to the contourite deposits developing in the late Mid‐Miocene transgressive environment, with multiple slow sea‐level fall cycles.
Cenozoic Sea‐land Transition and its Petroleum Geological Significance in the Northern South China Sea
Authors: ZHAO Zhigang , ZHANG Hao , CUI Yuchi , TANG Wu , QIAO Peijun
Published: January 2021

The process of Cenozoic sea‐land changes in the northern South China Sea (SCS) controlled the sedimentary filling pattern and played an important role in the petroleum geological characteristics of the northern marginal sedimentary basins. Under the control of the opening process of the SCS, the northern SCS Cenozoic transgression generally showed the characteristics of early in the east and late in the west, and early in the south and late in the north. The initial transgression occurred in the Eocene in the Taixinan Basin (TXNB) of the eastern SCS, while the transgression occurred until the Pliocene in the Yinggehai Basin (YGHB) of the western SCS. International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) expeditions (Expeditions 367/368) revealed that the initial transgression of the SCS basin occurred at approximately 34 Ma, which was the initial opening time of the SCS. The period of drastic changes in the sedimentary environment caused by large‐scale transgression corresponded to the opening time of the southwestern subbasin (approximately 23 Ma), which also represented the peak of the spreading of the SCS. The sea‐land transition process controls the distribution of alternating continent‐marine facies, marine facies source rocks and reservoirs in the basins. The marine facies source rocks of the basins in the northern SCS have a trend of gradually becoming younger from east to west, which is consistent with the regional process of gradual transgression from east to west. Regional sea‐level changes were comprehensively influenced by SCS opening and global sea‐level changes. These processes led to the early development in the east and south and late development in the west and north for the carbonate platform in the SCS. Carbonate platforms form another type of “self‐generating and self‐accumulating” oil‐gas reservoir in the northern SCS. The sea‐land transition controlled the depositional filling patterns of different basins and laid the foundation of marine deposits for oil and gas resources. The source‐reservoir‐cap assemblage in the northern SCS was controlled horizontally by provenance supply and sedimentary environmental changes caused by sea‐land transition and vertically by the tectonic evolution of the SCS and regional sea‐level changes.
Reservoir Characteristics and Genetic Mechanisms of the Mesozoic Granite Buried Hills in the Deep‐water of the Qiongdongnan Basin, Northern South China Sea
Authors: YOU Li , XU Shouli , MAO Xuelian , ZHONG Jia , JIAO Yaoqi , XIONG Xiaofeng
Published: January 2021

Due to its structure, rock and mineral composition, fluid and other factors, the granite Buried Hill Reservoir is highly heterogeneous with a complex longitudinal structure and a reservoir space made up of a combination of dissolution pores and fractures. This paper is based on current understanding of tectonic evolution in the northern part of the South China Sea, in conjunction with the seismic phase characteristics. It is determined that the meshed fault system was formed by three stages of movement ‐ tectonic compression orogeny during the Indochinese epoch, strike‐slip compression‐tension during the Yanshanian Period, early fracture extension activation during the Himalayan – which controlled the distribution of the Buried Hill Reservoir. Drilling revealed two types of buried hills, faulted anticline and fault horst, their longitudinal structure and the reservoir space type being significantly different. The mineral composition, reservoir space and diagenetic characteristics of the reservoir rocks and minerals were analyzed by lithogeochemistry, microsection and logging etc., it thus being determined that the Mesozoic rocks of the Songnan Low Uplift in the Qiongdongnan Basin are mainly composed of syenogranite, granodiorite, monzogranite, which is the material basis for the development of the Buried Hill Reservoir. The content of felsic and other brittle minerals is more than 70%, making it easy for it to be transformed into fractures. At the same time, the weathering resistance of granodiorite and monzogranite is weaker than that of syenogranite, which is easily weathered and destroyed, forming a thick sand gravel weathering zone. With increasing depth of burial, weathering and dissolution gradually weaken, the deep acidic fluid improving the reservoir property of internal fractures and expanding the vertical distribution range of the reservoirs. The research results lay a foundation for the exploration of Buried Hill in the deep‐water area of the Qiongdongnan Basin.
Refractive precision in uncomplicated eyes with pseudoexfoliation: three‐piece versus one‐piece intraocular lens implantation
Authors: Onur Ismail Umut , Kırık Furkan , Yiğit Fadime Ulviye , Vural Asli Deger , Cavusoglu Ercan , Evcimen Yusuf
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the refractive precision of three‐piece versus one‐piece intraocular lenses (IOLs) in eyes with pseudoexfoliation (PXF) and changes in anterior chamber depth (ACD) following cataract surgery.

Methods

This prospective, nonrandomized, interventional, comparative case series included PXF eyes, which were implanted with one‐piece acrylic IOL or three‐piece acrylic IOLs (Group A; n = 31, Group B; n = 30). Non‐PXF control eyes were implanted with one‐piece acrylic IOL (Group C; n = 30). Postoperative refractive error (RE) and absolute RE, as well as pre‐ to postoperative ACD changes, were statistically analysed. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Changes in ACD (mean ± standard deviation) in Groups A, B and C were 0.9 ± 0.4, 1.0 ± 0.3 and 0.7 ± 0.4 mm, respectively. Significant differences were found between Groups A and C (p = 0.043) and between Groups B and C (p = 0.008). In Groups A, B and C, the median and interquartile (Q1 to Q3) values were 0.3 (−0.8 to 1.0), −0.5 (−0.8 to −0.3) and 0.1 (−0.4 to 0.3) for RE and 1.0 (0.4 to 1.3), 0.5 (0.3 to 0.8) and 0.3 (0.3 to 0.5) for absolute RE, respectively. The RE differences between Group A and B (p = 0.009) and Group B and C (p < 0.001) were statistically significant. For absolute RE, the differences were significant for all comparisons (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Refractive precision in PXF eyes may be better with three‐piece than with one‐piece IOL implantation, but worse than with one‐piece IOL implantation in non‐PXF eyes. Significant changes in ACD in PXF eyes may be related to RE.
Non‐invasive structural and metabolic retinal markers of disease activity in non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Weisner Gwen , Blindbæk Søren Leer , Tang Fang Yao , Cheung Carol Y , Henriksen Jan Erik , Stefánsson Einar , Peto Tunde , Grauslund Jakob
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Metabolic and structural microvascular retinal alterations are essential components in diabetic retinopathy (DR). The present study aimed to measure changes at different stages of non‐proliferative DR (NPDR) and to explore interactions of imaging‐based metrics.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, cohort study included 139 eyes from 80 diabetic patients. Each patient underwent dilated fundal examinations including colour fundus photography, retinal oximetry and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), analysed by semi‐automated and automated software. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) severity was classified according to the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy (ICDR) Severity Scale, ranging from no DR to severe NPDR (level 0–3). Retinal metabolism was evaluated by oximetry as retinal arteriolar (raSatO2) and venular oxygen saturation (rvSatO2), and macular microvascular structure was measured by OCTA as the area of foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vessel density (VD), vessel diameter index (VDI), FAZ circularity and fractal dimension (FD) in the superficial and deep retinal capillary plexus.

Results

A trend for increasing rvSatO2 was found with increasing DR severity (51.3%, 53.3%, 54.2%, 59.8%, p = 0.02). Increasing severity of DR associated with decreasing FD in the superficial and deep plexus (p < 0.001 and p = 0.014), and in the superficial plexus decreasing VD (p < 0.001), increasing VDI (p = 0.003) and decreasing FAZ circularity (p = 0.006). A few interactions were identified between raSatO2, rvSatO2 and VDI, but only in the deep capillary plexus (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Alterations of the venular retinal vascular oxygen saturation and microvascular structural abnormities were found continuously throughout the DR‐spectrum. Given the sparse correlations between metabolic and structural abnormalities, it seems that these occur independently in DR.
Material as actor in the enactment of social norms: Engaging with a sociomaterial perspective in childhood studies to avoid the ‘traps of closure’
Authors: Sørenssen Ingvild Kvale , Franck Karianne
Published: January 2021

This article employs a sociomaterial perspective and explores how material artefacts take part in the enactment of social norms by analysing empirical examples from two different childhood studies projects in Norway. Drawing on interview data with tweens, (children aged 8–12), and observational data from an early education and care institution (ECEC), we argue that material, in this case toys and makeup, make a difference in the enactment of social norms in children's everyday lives. Our aim is to demonstrate the malleability of a sociomaterial perspective and show how this can lead to new insights and open childhood studies as a field.
The distinct roles of myosin IIA and IIB under compression stress in nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Ke Wencan , Wang Bingjin , Hua Wenbin , Song Yu , Lu Saideng , Luo Rongjin , Li Gaocai , Wang Kun , Liao Zhiwei , Xiang Qian , Li Shuai , Wu Xinghuo , Zhang Yukun , Yang Cao
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Inappropriate or excessive compression applied to intervertebral disc (IVD) contributes substantially to IVD degeneration. The actomyosin system plays a leading role in responding to mechanical stimuli. In the present study, we investigated the roles of myosin II isoforms in the compression stress‐induced senescence of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells.

Material and methods

Nucleus pulposus cells were exposed to 1.0 MPa compression for 0, 12, 24 or 36 hours. Immunofluorescence and co‐immunoprecipitation analysis were used to measure the interaction of myosin IIA and IIB with actin. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect nuclear expression and nuclear localization of MRTF‐A. In addition, the expression levels of p‐RhoA/RhoA, ROCK1/2 and p‐MLC/MLC were measured in human NP cells under compression stress and in degenerative IVD tissues.

Results

Compression stress increased the interaction of myosin IIA and actin, while the interaction of myosin IIB and actin was reduced. The actomyosin cytoskeleton remodelling was involved in the compression stress‐induced fibrotic phenotype mediated by MRTF‐A nuclear translocation and inhibition of proliferation in NP cells. Furthermore, RhoA/ROCK1 pathway activation mediated compression stress‐induced human NP cells senescence by regulating the interaction of myosin IIA and IIB with actin.

Conclusions

We for the first time investigated the regulation of actomyosin cytoskeleton in human NP cells under compression stress. It provided new insights into the development of therapy for effectively inhibiting IVD degeneration.
Acetabular shape and orientation of the spastic hip in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Jóźwiak Marek , Rychlik Michał , Szymczak Wiesław , Grzegorzewski Andrzej , Musielak Bartosz
Published: January 2021

Aim

To see if three‐dimensional (3D) methods could bring new understanding to acetabular changes in shape and orientation in the spastic hip and in which direction(s) acetabular orientation might change, which is crucial for planning appropriate hip correction surgery.

Method

We performed a retrospective study of pelvic computed tomography (CT) examinations in 20 consecutive patients (10 females, 10 males). The mean age of patients was 12 years 9 months (SD 2y; range: 9–16y) at the time of the CT examination. The control group consisted of 18 consecutive pelvic CT examinations (36 acetabula) of deceased individuals (six females, 12 males) aged 4 to 17 years (mean age: 10y 6mo; SD 5y 2mo) whose whole‐body CT scans were taken shortly after their death. We compared 3D CT reconstructions of 28 unstable and dislocated hips in children with bilateral cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V) with the unaffected side and typically developing controls to assess spatial orientation (inclination, anteversion, and tilt), acetabular volume, and surface area. Additionally, we analysed the multiple factors that may lead to structural and spatial changes of the acetabulum.

Results

Patients with dislocated and spastic hips had significantly lower anteversion (−3.2° and −1.4° respectively, p<0.001), increased inclination (85.2° and 85.3° respectively, p<0.001), and decreased tilt (24.6° [p=0.014] and 20.7° [p=0.013] respectively) compared with typically developing individuals. Regarding acetabular volume and surface area, dislocated and unstable hips had significantly lower volume (17.6ml vs 31.5ml respectively, p<0.001) and surface area (28.9cm2 vs 36.2cm2 respectively, p<0.001) than unaffected hips. Among several factors, only Reimer’s migration index had an influence on acetabular orientation (i.e. anteversion, p=0.01), volume (p<0.001), and surface (p=0.004).

Interpretation

Acetabula in patients with spastic hip disease were severely retroverted with increased steepness; acetabular orientation was distorted superoposteriorly. In rare cases, acetabular orientation was distorted only superiorly or superoanteriorly.

What this paper adds

Acetabular orientation was distorted superoposteriorly in most patients with severe bilateral cerebral palsy.

More pronounced acetabular changes were found in hips with a higher Reimer’s migration index.
Headache during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection as an early symptom associated with a more benign course of disease: a case–control study
Authors: Gonzalez‐Martinez Alicia , Fanjul Víctor , Ramos Carmen , Serrano Ballesteros Jorge , Bustamante Marta , Villa Martí Almudena , Álvarez Claudia , García del Álamo Yaiza , Vivancos José , Gago‐Veiga Ana Beatriz
Published: January 2021

Background and purpose

Headache is an important manifestation during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. In this study, the aim was to identify factors associated with headache in COVID‐19 and headache characteristics.

Methods

This case–control study includes COVID‐19 hospitalized patients with pneumonia during March 2020. Controls comprise COVID‐19 patients without headache and the cases are COVID‐19 patients with headache. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were obtained from the medical records. Headache characteristics were evaluated by semi‐structured telephonic interview after discharge.

Results

Of a total of 379 COVID‐19 patients, 48 (13%) developed headache. Amongst these, 30 (62%) were men and the median age was 57.9 (47–73) years. Headache was associated with younger age, fewer comorbidities and reduced mortality, as well as with low levels of C‐reactive protein, mild acute respiratory distress syndrome and oropharyngeal symptoms. A logistic multiple regression model revealed that headache was directly associated with D‐dimer and creatinine levels, the use of high flow nasal cannula and arthromyalgia, whilst urea levels, beta‐lactamic treatment and hypertension were negatively associated with headache. COVID‐19‐associated headache characteristics were available for 23/48 (48%) patients. Headache was the onset symptom in 8/20 (40%) patients, of mild or moderate intensity in 17/20 (85%) patients, with oppressive characteristics in 17/18 (94%) and of holocranial 8/19 (42%) or temporal 7/19 (37%) localization.

Conclusions

Our results show that headache is associated with a more benign SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. COVID‐19‐associated headache appears as an early symptom and as a novel headache with characteristics of headache attributed to systemic viral infection. Further research addressing the underlying mechanisms to confirm these findings is warranted.
Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles impede the progression of cervical cancer via the miR‐144‐3p/CEP55 pathway
Authors: Meng Qin , Zhang Baofang , Zhang Yingming , Wang Shuyan , Zhu Xiaohui
Published: January 2021

Cervical cancer is the most common gynaecological malignancy, with a high incidence rate and mortality rate in middle‐aged women. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) have been implicated in the initiation and subsequent development of cancer, along with the involvement of extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediating intracellular communication by delivering microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs). This study is aimed at investigating the physiological mechanisms by which EVs‐encapsulated miR‐144‐3p derived from hBMSCs might mediate the progression of cervical cancer. The expression profiles of centrosomal protein, 55 Kd (CEP55) and miR‐144‐3p in cervical cancer cell lines and tissues, were quantified by RT‐qPCR and Western blot analysis. The binding affinity between miR‐144‐3p and CEP55 was identified using in silico analysis and luciferase activity determination. Cervical cancer cells were co‐cultured with EVs derived from hBMSCs that were treated with either miR‐144‐3p mimic or miR‐144‐3p inhibitor. Cervical cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration and apoptosis were detected in vitro. The effects of hBMSCs‐miR‐144‐3p on tumour growth were also investigated in vivo. miR‐144‐3p was down‐regulated, whereas CEP55 was up‐regulated in cervical cancer cell lines and tissues. CEP55 was targeted by miR‐144‐3p, which suppressed cervical cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration and promoted apoptosis via CEP55. Furthermore, similar results were obtained by hBMSCs‐derived EVs carrying miR‐144‐3p. In vivo assays confirmed the tumour‐suppressive effects of miR‐144‐3p in hBMSCs‐derived EVs on cervical cancer. Collectively, hBMSCs‐derived EVs‐loaded miR‐144‐3p impedes the development and progression of cervical cancer through target inhibition of CEP55, therefore providing us with a potential therapeutic target for treating cervical cancer.
PRSS55 plays an important role in the structural differentiation and energy metabolism of sperm and is required for male fertility in mice
Authors: Zhu Feng , Li Wen , Zhou Xinli , Chen Xu , Zheng Meimei , Cui Yiqiang , Liu Xiaofei , Guo Xuejiang , Zhu Hui
Published: January 2021

Orderly and stage‐specifically expressed proteins are essential for spermatogenesis, and proteases play a key role in protein activation and function. The present study aimed to investigate serine protease 55 (PRSS55), which was reported to play a role in sperm‐uterotubal junction (UTJ) migration and sperm‐zona pellucida (ZP) binding. We found that PRSS55 was specifically expressed in testicular spermatids and epididymal spermatozoa. By constructing knockout mice targeting all transcripts of Prss55, we demonstrated that deletion of Prss55 resulted in a serious decline of male fertility, with significantly increased sperm malformation and decreased sperm motility. In Prss55−/− mice, increased structural abnormality, including deficient “9 + 2” microtubules, damaged peripheral dense fibre, and defective mitochondrial cristae, were found in sperm. In addition, sperm showed decreased expression of electron transfer chain molecules and lower ATP contents. These could be the potential causes of the astheno/teratozoospermia phenotype of the Prss55−/− mice, and provided new evidence for the previously reported impaired sperm‐UTJ migration. Moreover, preliminary studies allowed us to speculate that PRSS55 might function by activating type II muscle myosin in the testis, which is involved in many processes requiring motivation and cytoskeleton translocation. Thus, PRSS55 is essential for the structural differentiation and energy metabolism of sperm, and might be a potential pathogenic factor in astheno/teratozoospermia. Our results provide an additional explanation for the male sterility of Prss55−/− mice, and further reveal the role of PRSS55.
Therapeutic implications of topical cetirizine 1% in treatment of male androgenetic alopecia: A case‐controlled study
Authors: Zaky Mohamed S. , Abo Khodeir Hassan , Ahmed Hebat‐Allah , Elsaie Mohamed L.
Published: January 2021

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of alopecia in men. Cetirizine, a second‐generation H1 blocker, is known for its anti‐inflammatory properties and its ability to decrease prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) production.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of topical cetirizine in male patients with AGA.

Methods

Two groups of 30 patients each (healthy males aged between 22 and 55 years) with different grades of AGA classified according to the Hamilton‐Norwood classification were recruited for this study. Group A subjects applied 1 mL of 1% topical cetirizine daily, while group B subjects served as controls and were instructed to apply 1 mL of a placebo solution for 6 months.

Results

Dermoscopic assessment revealed significantly higher hair regrowth among the cetirizine‐treated group (P < .001). The patients’ satisfaction was significantly higher among the cetirizine‐treated group (P < .001).

Conclusion

The current study highlights a potential role cetirizine might have in treating AGA. It should be noted that studies are lacking in this regard and more randomized and controlled trials are warranted in order to confirm or refute such early findings.
Mainstream or Special Educational Settings: The Views of Spanish People With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Nieto Cristina , Moriña Anabel
Published: January 2021

This article aims to contribute to the debate on how different educational contexts can facilitate the inclusion or exclusion of people with intellectual disabilities (ID). We carried out a qualitative study based on the principles of inclusive research with 36 Spanish adults with ID. The data were gathered through individual interviews, which were transcribed, summarized, and adapted for later analysis and coding with participants. Together with participants, we coded the interviews into two main categories: “mainstream schools” and “special schools.” The results revealed the experiences of people with ID in mainstream schools, resource rooms, and special education schools, analyzing their preferences for regular or special contexts. The main conclusions drawn suggest that people with ID had both negative and positive experiences of inclusion at mainstream schools. Nevertheless, they preferred regular contexts, valued the help provided by SEN support teachers, and highlighted the importance of adjusting the curriculum to students' educational needs. They also emphasized the need for greater empathy from classmates at mainstream schools.
Wealth inequality and aggregate demand
Authors: Ederer Stefan , Rehm Miriam
Published: January 2021

The paper investigates how including the distribution of wealth changes the demand effects of redistributing functional income. It develops a model with an endogenous wealth distribution and shows that the endogenous rise in wealth inequality resulting from a redistribution toward profits weakens the growth effects of this redistribution. Consequently, a wage‐led regime becomes more strongly wage‐led. A profit‐led regime on the other hand becomes less profit‐led and there may even be a regime switch––in this case the short‐run profit‐led economy becomes wage‐led in the long run due to the endogenous effects of wealth inequality. The paper thereby provides a possible explanation for the instability of demand regimes over time.
Revenue‐Sharing Contracts Under Quality Uncertainty in Remanufacturing
Authors: Vedantam Aditya , Iyer Ananth
Published: January 2021

Business users (suppliers) of information technology (IT) equipment often contract with third party remanufacturers (3PRs) for the end‐of‐use disposition of their used electronic equipment. Our goal in this research is to develop a model to analyze contracts consisting of an upfront payment ( t) and a revenue share ( r) between a supplier and 3PR, study their impact on disposition decisions, and explore the impact of 3PR risk‐aversion and quality uncertainty on optimum contracts. We model a Stackelberg game where the supplier offers risk protection from quality uncertainty to a 3PR. The 3PR faces a convex increasing remanufacturing cost and a sales revenue that is increasing and concave in the volume resold. We show general conditions under which a unique contract exists and can be expressed in closed form. We calibrate our model using a dataset on supplier contracts and equipment conditions provided by a 3PR. Our managerial insights are derived from the data and summarized as follows. First, there is a benefit to suppliers from characterizing the quality of used assets. Therefore, they should consider adjusting contracts to reflect asset quality. Second, suppliers can increase profit by contracting based on quality grade and using a portfolio of contracts. Third, we show that the asset age impacts contract terms, with suppliers with assets at a lower age keeping a higher revenue share and observing a greater fraction of equipment remanufactured. This suggests that suppliers should consider the benefits of disposition contracts when making equipment replacement decisions.
Postoperative infectious complications in elderly patients after elective surgery in China: results of a 7‐day cohort study from the International Surgical Outcomes Study
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Hui , Ye Hui , Xie Guohao , Wu Shuijing , Song Shengwen , Cheng Baoli , Fang Xiangming ,   On behalf the International Surgical Outcomes Study (ISOS) group in China
Published: January 2021

Aim

Despite initiatives to increase elderly patients’ access to surgical treatments, the prevalence and impact of postoperative infectious complications (PICs) in elderly patients in China are poorly described. The aim of our study was to describe PICs and associated mortality in elderly patients undertaking elective surgery in China.

Methods

We analyzed data about elderly patients from China during the International Surgical Outcomes Study (ISOS), a 7‐day prospective cohort study of outcomes after elective surgery in in‐patient adults. All elderly patients (age ≥60 years) from 28 hospitals in China included in the ISOS study were included in this study as well. A review of 2014 elderly patients who underwent elective surgery in April 2014 was conducted.

Results

Of 2014 elderly patients, 209 (10.4%) developed at least one postoperative complication. Infectious complications were most frequent, affecting 154 patients (7.6%); there was one death, or 0.6% 30‐day mortality, which was a significantly higher rate than among patients without PICs (0%). The most frequent infectious complication was superficial surgical‐site infection (3.3%). The length of hospital stay was longer in elderly patients with PICs than in those without PICs. Moreover, a total of 142 elderly patients (7.1%) were routinely sent to critical care after surgery, of whom 97 (68.3%) developed PICs. Compared to elderly patients admitted to a standard ward, those admitted to critical care immediately after surgery had a higher postoperative complication rate and critical care admission rate to treat complications.

Conclusions

The present prospective, multicentre study found that 7.6% of elderly patients in China had PICs after elective surgery that could prolong hospital stay and increase 30‐day mortality. The clinical effectiveness of admission to critical care after surgery on elderly patients is not identified. Initiatives to increase elderly patients’ access to surgical interventions should also enhance safe perioperative care to reduce PICs in China.
The Politics of Speech on Campus1
Authors: Kidder Jeffrey L. , Binder Amy J.
Published: January 2021

This article is concerned with college‐aged activists’ discussions about provocative speakers invited to their campuses. Our research shows how the students on the front lines of debates over free expression and inclusion conceptualize the stakes and think about the consequences of their political involvement. Our analysis goes beyond simplistic portrayals of young people as being either “for” or “against” speech rights. Instead, we argue that conservative activists adopt an absolutist stance toward the First Amendment, which is encouraged by outside national organizations that regard free expression as a wedge issue in higher education. This contrasts with progressive activists, who struggle to weigh the value of individual freedoms against the potential harms caused by derogatory or hostile words and symbols. Ultimately, our semi‐structured interview data allow us to see the complex (and sometimes contradictory) reasoning behind students’ responses to contentious speaking events at colleges and universities
Design and Experimental Characterization of a Cable-Driven Elbow Assisting Device
Authors: Laribi Med Amine , Ceccarelli Marco
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the design and an experimental characterization of CADEL, a cable-driven elbow assisting device. The device design is presented to be portable and user-oriented solution and its kinematic model is formulated for functionality analysis. A first prototype and its experimental setup are discussed with the peculiarities of the novel solutions. Two operation modes are investigated with and without load in experimental testing. The performance characterization and feasibility are discussed referring to both the numerical and experimental results.
Multiple Fixed Pole-Based Rational Approximation for Fractional Order Systems
Authors: Wei Yiheng , Zhang Hui , Hou Yuqing , Cheng Kun
Published: January 2021

Our topic is the rational approximation of fractional order systems under Riemann–Liouville definition. This is a venerable, vast, fundamental area which attracts ongoing attention in coming years. In this work, the multiple fixed-pole scheme is developed. First, new schemes with different relative degree are developed to approximate fractional operators. Then, the fractional order is extended to the case of α>1. A discussion is made on the uniformity between the differentiator-based method and the integrator-based method. Afterward, the multiplicity of pole/zero is further generalized. In this framework, the nonzero initial instant and nonzero initial state are considered. Four examples are finally provided to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed algorithms.
A Two-Step Optimization-Based Iterative Learning Control for Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Adlakha Revant , Zheng Minghui
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a two-step optimization-based design method for iterative learning control and applies it onto the quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) trajectory tracking problem. Iterative learning control aims to improve the tracking performance through learning from errors over iterations in repetitively operated systems. The tracking errors from previous iterations are injected into a learning filter and a robust filter to generate the learning signal. The design of the two filters usually involves nontrivial tuning work. This paper presents a new two-optimization design method for the iterative learning control, which is easy to obtain and implement. In particular, the learning filter design problem is transferred into a feedback controller design problem for a purposely constructed system, which is solved based on H-infinity optimal control theory thereafter. The robust filter is then obtained by solving an additional optimization to guarantee the learning convergence. Through the proposed design method, the learning performance is optimized and the system's stability is guaranteed. The proposed two-step optimization-based design method and the regarding iterative learning control algorithm are validated by both numerical and experimental studies.
Geothermal Energy R&D: An Overview of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office
Authors: Hamm Susan G. , Anderson Arlene , Blankenship Douglas , Boyd Lauren W. , Brown Elizabeth A. , Frone Zachary , Hamos Ian , Hughes Hannah J. , Kalmuk Matthew , Marble Alethia , McKittrick Alexis M.W. , Metcalfe Elisabet , Morse Lindsay J. , Nieto Angel , Payne Jonathan , Porse Sean L. , Prisjatschew Alexandra , Stutz George R. , Tasca Coryne , Vandermeer William , Watson Gerry , Weathers Michael , Winick Jeffrey
Published: January 2021

Geothermal energy can provide answers to many of America’s essential energy questions. The United States has tremendous geothermal resources, as illustrated by the results of the DOE GeoVision analysis, but technical and non-technical barriers have historically stood in the way of widespread deployment of geothermal energy. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office within the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has invested more than $470 million in research and development (R&D) since 2015 to meet its three strategic goals: (1) unlock the potential of enhanced geothermal systems, (2) advance technologies to increase geothermal energy on the U.S. electricity grid, and (3) support R&D to expand geothermal energy opportunities throughout the United States. This paper describes many of those R&D initiatives and outlines future directions in geothermal research.
Study on the Unplugging Technology Through Electric Explosion Controllable Shock Wave
Authors: Wang Jin , Xue Qilong , Du Xiaoyou , Cao Yanfeng , Yu Jifei , Zhou Peng , Jiang Haiwei
Published: January 2021

For the increasing well plugging in oilfield development, a new unplugging technology is presented in this paper for the downhole plugging by using high voltage pulse wave. Based on the mechanism analysis, the circuit resistance model and the empirical calculation formula of the pressure shock wave are obtained, and the influence of the same current waveform on the pressure shock wave generated by the wire explosion is preliminarily studied in laboratory experiments under different energy conditions. A corresponding unplugging evaluation test device was designed to simulate the approximate downhole reservoir conditions in the places where the shock wave occurs to test the approximate downhole stress conditions of the core, and to test the permeability changes after different shock waves acted on the core. The results show that the peak value of the pressure shock wave is proportional to the effect of well unplugging, which verifies the feasibility of the unplugging and increasing permeability technology of the electric explosion-controlled shock wave. This technology can quickly dredge the oil seepage channel, increase well permeability, thus increasing the well productivity, which has a broad application prospect and important practical significance.
A CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated, Homology-Independent Tool Developed for Targeted Genome Integration in Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Cui Zhiyong , Zheng Huihui , Zhang Jinhong , Jiang Zhennan , Zhu Ziwei , Liu Xiaoqin , Qi Qingsheng , Hou Jin
Published: January 2021

This study describes the development and optimization of a homology-independent targeted genome integration tool mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 in
Yarrowia lipolytica
. This tool does not require the construction of homologous templates and can be used to rapidly verify genetic elements and to iteratively integrate multiple-gene pathways in
Y. lipolytica
. This tool may serve as a potential supplement to current HR-dependent genome-editing methods for eukaryotes.
Water Microbiota from a Commercial Alfalfa Sprout Crop over 4 Days of Growth
Authors: Reed Elizabeth , Sanderson Robert , Sanderson Barbara , Ramachandran Padmini , Commichaux Seth , Brown Eric , Zheng Jie , Strain Errol , Ottesen Andrea
Published: January 2021

Sprouts have been implicated in numerous foodborne illness outbreaks. To better understand baseline microbial profiles of irrigation water and subsequent spent irrigation water of alfalfa sprouts, DNA from water was extracted, sequenced, and annotated with CosmosID and a custom pipeline to provide bacterial, fungal, protist, and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles.
Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium abscessus Phage phiT46-1
Authors: Amarh Elizabeth D. , Dedrick Rebekah M. , Garlena Rebecca A. , Russell Daniel A. , Jacobs-Sera Deborah , Hatfull Graham F.
Published: January 2021

Mycobacteriophage phiT46-1 is a newly isolated
Mycobacterium
phage that was isolated by spontaneous release from
Mycobacterium abscessus
strain Taiwan-46 and infects
M. abscessus
strain BWH-C. Phage phiT46-1 is unrelated to previously described mycobacteriophages, has a 52,849-bp genome, and includes a polymorphic toxin-immunity cassette associated with type VII secretion systems.
Comparing the usefulness of a new algorithm to measure visual field using the variational Bayes linear regression in glaucoma patients, in comparison to the Swedish interactive thresholding algorithm
Authors: Murata Hiroshi , Asaoka Ryo , Fujino Yuri , Matsuura Masato , Hirasawa Kazunori , Shimada Satoshi , Shoji Nobuyuki
Published: January 2021

Background/aims

We previously reported that the visual field (VF) prediction model using the variational Bayes linear regression (VBLR) is useful for accurately predicting VF progression in glaucoma (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2014, 2018). We constructed a VF measurement algorithm using VBLR, and the purpose of this study was to investigate its usefulness.

Method

122 eyes of 73 patients with open-angle glaucoma were included in the current study. VF measurement was performed using the currently proposed VBLR programme with AP-7700 perimetry (KOWA). VF measurements were also conducted using the Swedish interactive thresholding algorithm (SITA) standard programme with Humphrey field analyser. VF measurements were performed using the 24–2 test grid. Visual sensitivities, test–retest reproducibility and measurement duration were compared between the two algorithms.

Result

Mean mean deviation (MD) values with SITA standard were −7.9 and −8.7 dB (first and second measurements), whereas those with VBLR-VF were −8.2 and −8.0 dB, respectively. There were no significant differences across these values. The correlation coefficient of MD values between the 2 algorithms was 0.97 or 0.98. Test–retest reproducibility did not differ between the two algorithms. Mean measurement duration with SITA standard was 6 min and 02 s or 6 min and 00 s (first or second measurement), whereas a significantly shorter duration was associated with VBLR-VF (5 min and 23 s or 5 min and 30 s).

Conclusion

VBLR-VF reduced test duration while maintaining the same accuracy as the SITA-standard.
PI3K-driven HER2 expression is a potential therapeutic target in colorectal cancer stem cells
Authors: Mangiapane Laura Rosa , Nicotra Annalisa , Turdo Alice , Gaggianesi Miriam , Bianca Paola , Di Franco Simone , Sardina Davide Stefano , Veschi Veronica , Signore Michele , Beyes Sven , Fagnocchi Luca , Fiori Micol Eleonora , Bongiorno Maria Rita , Lo Iacono Melania , Pillitteri Irene , Ganduscio Gloria , Gulotta Gaspare , Medema Jan Paul , Zippo Alessio , Todaro Matilde , De Maria Ruggero , Stassi Giorgio
Published: January 2021

Objective

Cancer stem cells are responsible for tumour spreading and relapse. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression is a negative prognostic factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) and a potential target in tumours carrying the gene amplification. Our aim was to define the expression of HER2 in colorectal cancer stem cells (CR-CSCs) and its possible role as therapeutic target in CRC resistant to anti- epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy.

Design

A collection of primary sphere cell cultures obtained from 60 CRC specimens was used to generate CR-CSC mouse avatars to preclinically validate therapeutic options. We also made use of the ChIP-seq analysis for transcriptional evaluation of HER2 activation and global RNA-seq to identify the mechanisms underlying therapy resistance.

Results

Here we show that in CD44v6-positive CR-CSCs, high HER2 expression levels are associated with an activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway, which promotes the acetylation at the regulatory elements of the Erbb2 gene. HER2 targeting in combination with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors induces CR-CSC death and regression of tumour xenografts, including those carrying Kras and Pik3ca mutation. Requirement for the triple targeting is due to the presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts, which release cytokines able to confer CR-CSC resistance to PI3K/AKT inhibitors. In contrast, targeting of PI3K/AKT as monotherapy is sufficient to kill liver-disseminating CR-CSCs in a model of adjuvant therapy.

Conclusions

While PI3K targeting kills liver-colonising CR-CSCs, the concomitant inhibition of PI3K, HER2 and MEK is required to induce regression of tumours resistant to anti-EGFR therapies. These data may provide a rationale for designing clinical trials in the adjuvant and metastatic setting.