bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproduction strategies in a marine protist: A digital experiment
Authors: Weinkauf Manuel F. G. , Siccha Michael , Weiner Agnes K. M.
Published: March 2021

Understanding the biology of reproduction is important for retracing key evolutionary processes (e.g. speciation and adaptation) in any group of organisms, yet gaining detailed insights often poses a major challenge. Planktonic Foraminifera are a group of globally distributed marine microbial eukaryotes that are important contributors to the global carbon cycle and, due to their fossil record, are widely used as model organisms to investigate the responses of plankton to past environmental changes. The extant biodiversity of planktonic Foraminifera shows restricted distribution patterns and local adaptations of some species, whereas others are cosmopolitan in the world ocean. Hypotheses on their diversification and population dynamics so far entirely rely on the assumption of a nearly exclusively sexual reproduction.

So far, reproduction in culture has not been successful under laboratory conditions, and thus details on their life cycle and its influence on the evolution of the group remain unknown. Only the production of flagellated gametes has been observed and is taken as an indication for sexual reproduction. Yet, sexual reproduction by spawning of gametes in the open ocean relies on sufficient gamete encounters to maintain viable populations. This represents a problem especially for unflagellated protists like planktonic Foraminifera, which lack the means of active propulsion and are characterized by low population densities in large areas of the world ocean.

To increase the sparse knowledge on the reproductive biology of planktonic Foraminifera, we applied a dynamic, individual-based modelling approach with parameters based on laboratory and field observations. We tested if random gamete encounters under commonly observed population densities are sufficient for maintaining viable populations or if alternative strategies, such as asexual reproduction or synchronization in depth and time, are indispensable to achieve reproduction success. Our results show that a strict synchronization of gamete release in time and/or space seems inevitable for a successful maintenance of populations. We further argue that planktonic Foraminifera optimized their individual reproductive success at the expense of community-wide gene flow, which may explain their high degree of diversity as well as hampered evolvability. Our modelling approach helps to illuminate the ecology and evolution of this important marine calcifier and to predict the existence of necessary reproduction strategies, which may be detectable in future field and laboratory experiments.
Surface cooling caused by rare but intense near-inertial wave induced mixing in the tropical Atlantic
Authors: Hummels Rebecca , Dengler Marcus , Rath Willi , Foltz Gregory R. , Schütte Florian , Fischer Tim , Brandt Peter
Published: March 2021

The direct response of the tropical mixed layer to near-inertial waves (NIWs) has only rarely been observed. Here, we present upper-ocean turbulence data that provide evidence for a strongly elevated vertical diffusive heat flux across the base of the mixed layer in the presence of a NIW, thereby cooling the mixed layer at a rate of 244 Wm−2 over the 20 h of continuous measurements. We investigate the seasonal cycle of strong NIW events and find that despite their local intermittent nature, they occur preferentially during boreal summer, presumably associated with the passage of atmospheric African Easterly Waves. We illustrate the impact of these rare but intense NIW induced mixing events on the mixed layer heat balance, highlight their contribution to the seasonal evolution of sea surface temperature, and discuss their potential impact on biological productivity in the tropical North Atlantic.
The Chennai flood (India): preliminary results using CETEMPS Hydrological Model (CHyM) stress index
Authors: Neduncheran Adhithiyan , Lombardi Annalina , Tomassetti Barbara , Verdecchia Marco , Colaiuda Valentina
Published: March 2021

An extreme weather event hit the coastal city of Chennai, India, in November-December 2015 causing severe damage to infrastructure worth billions of dollars, people’s lives and their livelihood. Nearby districts to Chennai, such as Cuddalore, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur were also affected by rainfall over 300mm during the first week of December. This was caused by the unusual wind surges in the troposphere providing favorable environmental conditions for the extensive rainfall and the formation of a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal on 30 November 2015, which was blocked by Eastern Ghats that inhibited the movement of the synoptic system. Electricity and telecommunication lines were suspended and some hospitals were shut down for a few days. It brought the whole city into a state of emergency and National Disaster Rescue Force were deployed in an effort to take care of the evacuation of people.

In this work, we present the estimation of the hydrological stress caused by the extreme rainfall event in Chennai and the nearby river basins during the course of this northeastern monsoon event in India. The hydrological stress is given through the application of Best Discharge based Drainage (BDD)  Index, calculated by the CETEMPS Hydrological Model (CHyM). Hydrological simulation is carried out by forcing the model with the 3-hourly NASA IMERG 0.1x0.1 grid precipitation dataset. Preliminary results show a spatial coherence between the hydrological stress detected by the index and the most impacted river segments, due to heavy precipitation. The application of hydrological stress indices is helpful for forecasting fluvial floods in the river network with minimum calibration requirements, providing a useful tool for warning the respective authorities for minimal losses due to natural calamities.
Modelled Holocene thinning in Greenland improved by new developed transient past climatologies.
Authors: Tabone Ilaria , Robinson Alexander , Alvarez-Solas Jorge , Blasco Javier , Moreno Daniel , Montoya Marisa
Published: March 2021

Reconstructions of Greenland Summit elevation changes indicate at least 150 m of surface thinning since the onset of the Holocene. Even higher thinning values are found at locations closer to the ice-sheet margin, where the influence of higher ablation rates and ocean-induced retreat is greater. Interestingly, the performance of 3D ice-sheet models in representing such elevation changes is generally poor, even though they can reasonably reproduce the state of the ice sheet at different times, such as the last glacial maximum (LGM) or the present day. The reasons behind this data-model mismatch are still unclear. Here we use a recently developed 3D ice-sheet-shelf model to test the impact of different model parameters and of boundary conditions on simulating the Greenland ice sheet evolution through the last deglaciation to today. Specifically, we investigate the role of past climatologies in reproducing the elevation changes at ice core sites when used to force the ice-sheet model. By applying recently developed transient deglacial climatologies we can investigate the ice-sheet deglaciation with exceptional detail. Results support the need of additional transient climatologies to be released to ensure a robust description of the Greenland retreat history throughout the Holocene. 
The Complexities in Risk Communication for Flood Early Warning System in Nepal and India.
Authors: Dawadi Gaurab Sagar
Published: March 2021

The Early Warning System (EWS)  is recognized as a crucial mechanism for disaster risk reduction. Despite advances in technologies, the biggest shortcoming of EWS is that risk information is still failing to reach the people at risk in developing countries like Nepal and India. This presentation is based on the qualitative analysis of 90 interviews conducted for my Ph.D. thesis, in the Kosi River basin, across the Nepal-India border. Annually the Kosi River and its tributaries cause widespread flooding and inundation in Nepal and India. Recently, significant advancements have occurred in the sector of risk communication for Flood-EWS in Nepal and India. Government institutions use mobile text messages, web-based Apps, flood bulletins, and other measures to inform people about the flood. Despite the efforts, significant challenges were observed in the information outreach, especially to the women and vulnerable people living in the study area. Challenges were also identified in understanding the received text messages by flood vulnerable people, and spatially relating the information about river depth for their evacuation decision.  Recommendations were made for inclusive and people-centered EWS based on Impact based forecasting as well as on awareness-raising activities through mobile applications.
Participatory methods for developing a Bayesian network model for simulating catchment resilience under future scenarios. 
Authors: Adams Kerr , Glendell Miriam , Metzger Marc , Helliwell Rachel , Macleod Christopher (Kit) , Gillman Sarah
Published: March 2021

The cumulative impacts of future climatic and socio-economic change have the potential to threaten the resilience of freshwater catchments and the important socio-ecological services they provide. Working with stakeholder groups from Scottish Water (statutory corporation that provides water and sewerage services across Scotland) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (environmental regulator), we established a participatory method for developing a Bayesian Network (BN) model to simulate the resilience of the Eden catchment, in eastern Scotland, to future pressures. The Eden catchment spans approximately 319km2, arable farming is the major land use, and the catchment falls within the Strathmore, Fife and Angus Nitrate Vulnerable Zone. The participatory method involves co-developing a BN model structure by conceptually mapping land management, water resource and wastewater services.  Working with stakeholders, appropriate baseline data is identified to define and parameterise variables that represent the Eden catchment system and future scenarios. Key factors including climate, land-use and population change were combined in future scenarios and are represented in the BN through causal relationships. Scenarios consider shocks and changes to the catchment system in a 2050-time horizon. Resilience is measured by simulating the impacts of the future scenarios and their influence on natural, social and manufactured capitals within a probabilistic framework. Relationships between specific components of the catchment system can be evaluated using sensitivity analysis and strength of influence to better understand the interactions between specific variables. The participatory modelling improved the structure of the BN through collaborative learning with stakeholders, increasing understanding of the catchment system and stakeholder confidence in the probabilistic outputs. This participatory method delivered a purpose built, user-friendly decision support tool to help stakeholders understand the cumulative impacts of both climatic and socio-economic factors on catchment resilience.
The AMV phase-dependence of the connection between February NAO and March surface air temperature over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Jingyi , Li Fei , He Shengping , Wang Huijun , Orsolini Yvan J
Published: March 2021

The Tibetan Plateau (TP), referred to as the “Asian water tower”, contains one of the largest land ice masses on Earth. The local glacier shrinkage and frozen-water storage are strongly affected by variations in surface air temperature over the TP (TPSAT), especially in springtime. This study reveals a distinct out-of-phase connection between the February North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and March TPSAT, which is non-stationary and regulated by the warm phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability (AMV+). The results show that during the AMV+, the negative phase of the NAO persists from February to March, and is accompanied by a quasi-stationary Rossby wave train trapped along a northward-shifted subtropical westerly jet stream across Eurasia, inducing an anomalous adiabatic descent that warms the TP. However, during the cold phase of the AMV, the negative NAO does not persist into March. The Rossby wave train propagates along the well-separated polar and subtropical westerly jets, and the NAO−TPSAT connection is broken. Further investigation suggests that the enhanced synoptic eddy and low-frequency flow (SELF) interaction over the North Atlantic in February and March during the AMV+, caused by the enhanced and southward-shifted storm track, help maintain the NAO anomaly pattern via positive eddy feedback. This study provides a new detailed perspective on the decadal variability of the North Atlantic−TP connections in late winter−early spring.
Assessing traditional irrigation systems in data scarcity conditions, a proposal for a methodological approach.
Authors: Boselli Vladimiro , Michailidi Eleni Maria , Kassout Jalal , Houssni Mhammad , El Ouahrani Abdeltif , Sesana Matteo , Borroni Massimiliano , Cristoforetti Simone
Published: March 2021

Traditional irrigation systems, apart from being an important cultural heritage element, are considered vital for sustainable water resource management and climate change adaptation measures. However, these traditional forms of irrigation and agriculture, with direct implications in food security at a local scale, have been suffering from abandonment or degradation worldwide. In light of this, the need to fully comprehend the complex linkage of their abandonment with different driving forces is essential. The identification of these dynamics enables the adoption of appropriate interventions with local initiatives and policies on a larger scale.

The present scientific contribution aims at presenting a valid methodology to consistently address the multidisciplinarity and the multifacetedness that emerge in studies relating to traditional irrigation systems.

The methodological approach introduced regards that of system dynamics and is geared to outline a combined framework at the service of stakeholders and policy makers. This approach has been already adopted previously, in different studies to tackle down the complexity stemming from the heterogeneity of drivers in complex water-related and ecosystem modeling problems. Among its advantages there are its ease of implementation in any given scenario and its ability to integrate qualitative and quantitative assessments of multidisciplinary nature that can even be interconnected. Moreover, its applicability in cases affected by data scarcity allows to address issues in those areas of the world which often are more vulnerable, poorer and marginalized and which consequently suffer from a lack of interest in monitoring environmental and social variables, properly.

The abstract is based on Boselli, V., Ouallali, A., Briak, H., Houssni, M., Kassout, J., El Ouahrani, A., & Michailidi, E. M. (2020). System Dynamics Applied to Terraced Agroecosystems: The Case Study of Assaragh (Anti-Atlas Mountains, Morocco). Water, 12(6), 1693. doi.org/10.3390/w12061693
Evaluating the effects of human regulation on development and recovery characteristics of hydrological drought in a semi-arid area
Authors: Xu Yang , Zhang Xuan
Published: March 2021

Understanding the impacts of human regulation on development and recovery characteristics of hydrological drought is crucial to detect the relationship between hydrological drought and the regional water cycle system. In this study the standardized streamflow index (SSI) which based on the observation and SWAT simulated runoff data were used to represent the hydrological drought under human disturbed and naturalized scenarios, respectively. Furthermore, the hydrological drought events under each scenario was divided into the development and recovery stages by the run theory. Comparing two scenarios under the stage Ⅰ (1980-1989) and stage Ⅱ (2007-2016), the human disturbed scenario presents a more severe hydrological drought than the naturalized scenario at stage Ⅱ. Our study further found that the reservoir operation was the irreplaceable factor that affected hydrological drought development and recovery in the study area. The reservoir has the strong ability to alleviate the long-duration hydrological droughts, however, the recovery ability of drought has been weakened. To be noticed that though the water intake from the river by the reservoir has been reduced, the drought alleviates ability of the reservoir still become weaker than prototype after working for 30 years. Therefore, as time goes on the effects of reservoir will become progressively more important. The results of our study could be a hint for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance the drought early warning and forecasting system to optimal reservoirs’ management at semi-arid areas.
Field evidence for coal combustion links the 252 My-old Siberian Traps with global carbon disruption
Authors: Elkins-Tanton Linda , Grasby Steven , Black Benjamin , Veselovskiy Roman , Ardakani Omid , Goodarzi Fariborz
Published: March 2021

The Permo-Triassic Extinction was the most severe in Earth history. The Siberian Traps eruptions are strongly implicated in the global atmospheric changes that likely drove the extinction. A sharp negative carbon isotope excursion coincides within geochronological uncertainty with the oldest dated rocks from the Norilsk section of the Siberian flood basalts. The source of this light carbon has been debated for decades.

We focused on the voluminous volcaniclastic rocks of the Siberian Traps, relatively unstudied as potential carriers of carbon-bearing gases. Over six field seasons we collected rocks from across the Siberian platform and show the first direct evidence that the earliest eruptions particularly in the southern part of the province burned large volumes of a combination of vegetation and coal. Samples from the Maymecha-Kotuy region, from the Nizhnyaya Tunguska, Podkamennaya Tunguska, and Angara Rivers all show evidence of high-temperature organic matter carbonization and combustion.

Field evidence indicates a process in which ascending magmas entrain xenoliths of coal and carbonaceous sediments that are carbonized in the subsurface and also combusted either through reduction of magmas or when exposed to the atmosphere. We demonstrate that the volume and composition of organic matter interactions with magmas may explain the global carbon isotope signal, and have significantly driven the extinction.
The Southern Ocean Cloud project
Authors: Lachlan-Cope Tom , Kirchgaessner Amelie , Jones Anna , Browse Jo , Topping David , Valeria Ferracci , Harris Neil , Van Den Heuval Floortje , Renfrew Ian , Witherstone Jonathan , Bower Keith , Partridge Daniel , Bracegirdle Thomas
Published: March 2021

The Southern Ocean Cloud (SOC) project is funded by the UK Natural Environment Research Council to investigate clouds, particularly mixed-phase, in the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean and how aerosol sources and production control clouds properties. Here we aim to introduce the community to the project and any associated opportunities that might be available. At high Southern latitudes models are relatively poor at representing clouds and this has an impact on the energy balance and hence atmospheric and oceanic circulation both locally and globally. This project will investigate those processes that control cloud development and will concentrate on the aerosol that act as cloud nuclei, the source of these nuclei and how aerosol and microphysical processes are modelled.

 

It is planned to deploy instruments to the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) research stations Rothera and Bird Island research stations as well as on the BAS research vessel. These instruments will measure the aerosol size spectrum at all stations and in addition CCN and INP numbers, cloud properties (with a polarized lidar) and aerosol composition at Rothera. The instruments will be deployed for at least 3 years, although some instruments may be moved from Rothera to the ship for special observing periods.

 

In addition to the long-term measurements there will be two special observing periods (SOPs), the first in the 2022/23 Antarctic season will consist of a dedicated ship cruise and an airborne campaign using the BAS instrumented twin otter aircraft along with enhanced observations at the surface stations. The second SOP will also have enhanced observations at the surface stations along with an airborne campaign.

 

The observations will be backed up with a programme of aerosol, weather and climate modelling. The combination of modelling and observations should enable us to identify the major sources of cloud nuclei over the Southern Ocean, examine their role in cloud development, and improve the representation of these processes in models.

 
Challenges and opportunities of Kazakhstan's migration policy
Authors: Ismailova Rymkul , BOKAYEV Baurzhan
Published: March 2021

The article assesses the implementation of migration policy of Kazakhstan over the past twenty years based on analysis of previously adopted and/or current legal acts, government programs and concepts. In addition, it analyzes the impact of socio-economic conditions on migration processes on the example of EAEU member states and Kazakhstan, since according to official data the majority of the country’s population emigrate to Russia and Belarus. The result of the analysis revealed the main reasons for the low level of efficiency in the implementation of the migration policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan. New approaches have been proposed to regulate migration activities aimed at improving the quality of life of migrants and improving the socio-economic conditions of the indigenous population in order to reduce the outflow of highly qualified specialists from the country.
This research is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant No. АР05136246)
Financial and Operating Performance of Initial Public Offerings in Pakistan
Authors: Rafique Amir , Quddoos Muhammad Umer , Khadim Irfan , Tariq Muhammad
Published: March 2021

This study examines the relationship between prior IPO demands and post-IPO financial and operating performance of ?rms listed in the Pakistan Stock Exchange. A sample of 51 listed firms, covering a period of ten years, is examined. Predominantly, the investors' demand has been analyzed from two perspectives including oversubscription (a high demand from investors as compared to shares offered by firms) and under subscription (a low demand from investors as compared to shares offered by the firm). Multiple regression analysis has been applied, where the findings revealed that investors demand IPO bring no significant change in the financial and operating performance of IPO firms. Moreover, the analysis reveals that firm size, issue size, and leverage bring no notable change in the operating performance of IPO firms. The findings are important for the investors, portfolio managers, and underwriters.
Historiebevissthet – «allt och inget»
Authors: Landro Torgeir
Published: March 2021

Historiebevissthet ble lansert som det nye slagordet for historiefaget i den skandinaviske skolen på 1980-tallet. Mens talsmenn for den nye strømningen ønsket å dreie skolefaget i mer filosofisk retning og i større grad rette fokuset mot elevenes hverdagsliv og identitet, innvendte kritikerne at de nye tankene ikke lot seg operasjonalisere i klasserommet. Artikkelen gjennomgår og analyserer resultatene fra et utvalg av ni norske og svenske studier som har undersøkt lærernes forståelse av historiebevissthetsbegrepet og dets nedslag i skolen. Gjennomgangen viser at det er et stort gap mellom ambisjonsnivået som historiedidaktikere ved universiteter og lærerutdanningsinstitusjoner har siktet seg inn mot, og mottagelsen av dette tankegodset i skolen.
Learning without Borders
Authors: Sexton Jenise
Published: March 2021

Ear to the Ground features voices from various corners of the mathematics education world.
La bola de cristal
Authors: Lalueza Ferran
Published: March 2021

¿Cuál es el impacto social, político y económico de Internet a nivel mundial? Y en España, ¿cuál ha sido el impacto del movimiento 15-M en las redes sociales? ¿Qué reglas heurísticas son aplicables al discurso periodístico de los medios de comunicación? ¿Pueden ser identificadas y analizadas en un marco interdisciplinario?
Punto de inflexión en el estudio de la competencia informacional
Authors: Ortoll Eva
Published: March 2021

Posiblemente el rol de la información como elemento que permite una mejor adaptación al medio se puede considerar consustancial al instinto de supervivencia. Esta peculiaridad se acentúa a medida que la raza humana evoluciona. El libro Nativos digitales: transiciones de lo impreso a lo digital analiza la competencia informacional con una mirada lúcida y renovada.
Dyskursywizacja ciała na przykładzie doświadczenia niskorosłości kobiet z zespołem Turnera
Authors: Ciepiela Kamila
Published: March 2021

W ponowoczesności ciało człowieka nie jest prywatną domeną jednostki, ale obszarem działania i produktem hegemonicznego dyskursu kulturowego. Wygląd ciała kobiety z zespołem Turnera może znacząco odbiegać od narzuconego ideału, ponieważ głównym jego symptomem jest niskorosłość. W wyniku suplementacji hormonem wzrostu (GH), może ono osiągnąć średni wzrost w danej wspólnocie. W Polsce terapia GH jest dostępna od roku 2000, co oznacza, że kobiety urodzone przed rokiem 1980 jej nie otrzymały, a więc ich wzrost znacząco odbiega od średniego w polskim społeczeństwie. W przeprowadzonym badaniu jakościowym, wypowiedzi kobiet z ZT zebrane w wywiadzie pogłębionym, zostały poddane krytycznej analizie dyskursu, która miała wykazać jak zmienia się pozycja społeczna kobiet wraz ze zmianą wzrostu ciała. Z badania wynika, że ciało kobiet, które nie były leczone hormonem, jest kategoryzowane jako nienormatywne i jest napiętnowane społecznie, natomiast ciało tych, które przeszły terapię wpisuje się w społeczno-kulturowy schemat cielesności, co przekłada się na ich dobrostan psycho-społeczny. Oczekiwania społeczne odzwierciedlone są w postrzeganiu własnego ciała przez kobiety z ZT i ich działaniach dopasowujących do normy społecznej.
In Search of Linguistic Terminology. System in Times of Symbol or Symbol for the Sake of System?
Authors: Łozowski Przemysław
Published: March 2021

In the article we claim that scientific terminology should keep abreast of the times it serves. We identify the current intellectual climate as post-modernistic in the sense that general principles cannot be evaluated out of the spatiotemporal context in which they were initially proposed. Against that background the terminology of autonomous linguistics must be said to be no match for the present spirit of the times, while the terminology of non-autonomous linguistics lacks at times precision and common sense.
Plasma Cell Rich Osteomyelitis: A Rare Entity
Authors: Maheshwari Prakhar , Maheshwari Rajesh Kumar , Kusum Anuradha , Agarwal Digvijay
Published: March 2021

Plasma cell rich osteomyelitis is a rare finding characterised by a plethora of plasma cells localised in the affected bone without the typical clinical features of infection. It usually affects the metaphysis of long bones with a radiological appearance as a dense thickening of bone without sequestrum formation. We present an atypical case of plasma cell osteomyelitis with a lesion in the metaphysis as well as the diaphysis of the humerus without sclerosis but with sequestrum formation. An 11-year-old girl was brought to OutPatient Department (OPD) with complaints of post-traumatic pain and swelling at left shoulder and proximal arm since one and a half months with aggravation of symptoms since last 10 days. Patient had also been treated for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) by a paediatrician who prescribed antibiotics and antipyretics because of which fever subsided but the pain persisted. The x-ray of left shoulder with arm revealed a fracture of surgical neck of humerus with cortical irregularity noted in the mid-shaft of humerus along with lamellated periosteal reaction suggestive of post-traumatic osteomyelitis with a pathological fracture. Clinicoradiologic diagnosis of pathological fracture of left neck of humerus was made with an underlying neoplastic or infective aetiology. An open biopsy was taken from left proximal humerus. Histopathological examination showed plasma cells in sheets having abundant basophilic cytoplasm, round to eccentric nuclei and perinuclear hoff along with lymphocytes and few polymorphs with surrounding area showing fibrosis, oedema and hyperemia. A diagnosis of chronic plasma cell osteomyelitis was rendered, which is an uncommon condition without specific clinical findings and an ambigious cause. Histopathology is the definitive tool for obtaining an accurate diagnosis and we strongly recommend a meticulous histopathological examination correlated with clinico-radiological description for a correct diagnosis in order to avoid an increased frequency of diagnosis of neoplastic plasma cell lesion as well as for advocating the correct treatment. This case is discussed for presentation of plasma cell osteomyelitis and also to report a case of chronic primary plasma cell rich osteomyelitis with atypical clinical features.
Injectable In Situ Induced Robust Hydrogel for Photothermal Therapy and Bone Fracture Repair
Authors: Liu Bin , Gu Xinquan , Sun Qiannan , Jiang Shengjie , Sun Jing , Liu Kai , Wang Fan , Wei Yan
Published: March 2021

Malignant bone tumors are often accompanied by osteolytic destruction and severe pathological fractures. Current therapeutic strategies can largely inhibit tumor proliferation, but the high recurrence rate of tumors and related bone defects remain a significant challenge. This study aims to address these issues by developing a novel near‐infrared (NIR) light‐responsive and a mechanically strong hydrogel that offers excellent photothermal tumor therapy and bone fracture repair capabilities. The as‐prepared hydrogel exhibits good biocompatibility and an ultra‐strong photothermal effect due to the formation of a complex network with up‐conversion lanthanide‐Au hybrid nanoparticles and alginate molecules. A subcutaneous tumor model is used to demonstrate that tumors can be efficiently eradicated via local photothermal treatment, where there is no tumor recurrence within the observation period. Moreover, the injected hydrogel becomes mechanically strong due to in situ Ca2+ crosslinking, which provides a supportive matrix to promote the repair of bone defects via stabilization of the fractured bone structure. The high photothermal effect and robust support offered by this single material demonstrate the potential of using the proposed hydrogel for the simultaneous treatment of bone tumor removal and bone healing.
Combinatory Delivery of Etoposide and siCD47 in a Lipid Polymer Hybrid Delays Lung Tumor Growth in an Experimental Melanoma Lung Metastatic Model
Authors: Abdel‐Bar Hend Mohamed , Walters Adam A. , Wang Julie Tzu‐Wen , Al‐Jamal Khuloud T.
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the feasibility of lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPH) as a platform for the combinatorial delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and etoposide (Eto). Different Eto loaded LPH formulations (LPH Eto) are prepared. The optimized cationic LPH Eto with a particle size of 109.66 ± 5.17 nm and Eto entrapment efficiency (EE %) of 80.33 ± 2.55 is used to incorporate siRNA targeting CD47 (siCD47), a do not eat me marker on the surface of cancer cells. The siRNA‐encapsulating LPH (LPH siNEG‐Eto) has a particle size of 115.9 ± 4.11 nm and siRNA EE % of 63.54 ± 4.36 %. LPHs improved the cellular uptake of siRNA in a dose‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. Enhanced cytotoxicity (3.8‐fold higher than Eto solution) and high siRNA transfection efficiency (≈50 %) are obtained. An in vivo biodistribution study showed a preferential uptake of the nanosystem into lung, liver, and spleen. In an experimental pseudo‐metastatic B16F10 lung tumor model, a superior therapeutic outcome can be observed in mice treated with combinatory therapy. Immunological studies revealed elevated CD4+, CD8+ cells, and macrophages in the lung following combinatory treatment. The study suggests the potential of the current system for combinatory chemotherapy and immunotherapy for the treatment of lung cancer or lung metastasis.
The risk of dementia after coronary artery bypass grafting in relation to age and sex
Authors: Giang Kok Wai , Jeppsson Anders , Karlsson Martin , Hansson Emma C. , Pivodic Aldina , Skoog Ingmar , Lindgren Martin , Nielsen Susanne J.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

We examined the long‐term risk of dementia after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in relation to age and sex.

Methods

All CABG patients in Sweden 1992–2015 (n = 111,335), and matched controls (n = 222,396) were included in a population‐based study. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) for all‐cause dementia, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer's disease were calculated.

Results

There was no difference in the risk for all‐cause dementia between CABG patients and control subjects (aHR 0.98 [95% confidence interval 0.95 to 1.02]). CABG patients <65 years and 65 to 74 years had higher risk (aHR 1.29 [1.17–1.42] and 1.08 [1.02–1.13], respectively), and patients ≥75 years had lower risk (aHR 0.76 [0.71–0.81]). The highest risk was observed in women <65 years (aHR 1.64 [1.31–2.05]).

Discussion

Overall, the long‐term risk for all‐cause dementia does not differ between CABG patients and the general population. Younger patients have a higher risk, while older patients have a lower risk, compared to controls.
Association between insurance status and in‐hospital outcomes in patients with out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation arrest
Authors: Pancholy Samir B. , Patel Gaurav A. , Patel Dhara D. , Patel Neil , Pancholy Shivam A. , Patel Purveshkumar , Thomas‐Hemak Linda , Patel Tejas M. , Callans David J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Lack of health insurance is associated with adverse clinical outcomes; however, the association between health insurance status and in‐hospital outcomes after out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation (OHVFA) arrest is unclear.

Hypothesis

Lack of health insurance is associated with worse in‐hospital outcomes after out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation arrest.

Methods

From January 2003 to December 2014, hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of OHVFA in patients ≥18 years of age were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Patients were categorized into insured and uninsured groups based on their documented health insurance status. Study outcome measures were in‐hospital mortality, utilization of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and cost of hospitalization. Inverse probability weighting adjusted binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of in‐hospital mortality and ICD utilization and linear regression was performed to identify independent predictors of cost of hospitalization.

Results

Of 188 946 patients included in the final analyses, 178 005 (94.2%) patients were insured and 10 941 (5.8%) patients were uninsured. Unadjusted in‐hospital mortality was higher (61.7% vs. 54.7%, p < .001) and ICD utilization was lower (15.3% vs. 18.3%, p < .001) in the uninsured patients. Lack of health insurance was independently associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (O.R = 1.53, 95% C.I. [1.46–1.61]; p < .001) and lower utilization of ICD (O.R = 0.84, 95% C.I [0.79–0.90], p < .001). Cost of hospitalization was significantly higher in uninsured patients (median [interquartile range], p‐value) ($) (39 650 [18 034‐93 399] vs. 35 965 [14 568.50‐96 163], p < .001).

Conclusion

Lack of health insurance is associated with higher in‐hospital mortality, lower utilization of ICD and higher cost of hospitalization after OHVFA.
Study of Coulomb collisional effects on the propagation of electromagnetic waves in a turbulent plasma
Authors: Khodadadi Azadboni Fatemeh
Published: March 2021

The presence of Weibel instability in laser‐irradiated fuel could be detrimental to the process of ablative implosion, which is necessary for achieving thermonuclear fusion reactions. In this paper, the effect of the Coulomb collisional within the turbulent plasma on the Weibel instability growth rate has been investigated for linear and circular polarization. The results indicate that the Weibel instability growth rate at circular polarization near the ignition centre of the fuel fusion (collisional plasma) is about 105 times higher than the collisional Weibel instability growth rate at linear polarization. The Weibel instability growth rate is observed near the critical density of the fuel fusion (collisionless plasma) at linear polarization and enhancement near the foot of the heat in front of the fuel fusion. By increasing the steps of the density gradient plasma in the low‐density corona, electromagnetic instability occurs at a higher stress flow. Therefore, the deposition condition of electron beam energy in circular polarization of turbulent plasma can be shifted to the fuel core for suitable ignition.
Dynamics of ion‐acoustic rogue waves in electron‐positron‐ion magneto‐plasmas
Authors: Haque M. N. , Mannan A.
Published: March 2021

A more general and realistic four‐component magnetized plasma medium consisting of opposite polarity ions and nonthermal distributed positrons and electrons is considered to investigate the stable/unstable frequency regimes of modulated ion‐acoustic waves (IAWs) in the D‐F regions of Earth's ionosphere. A (3 + 1)‐dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation, which leads to the modulation instability (MI) of IAWs, is derived. The parametric regimes for the existence of the MI, first‐ and second‐order rogue waves, and also their basic features (viz., amplitude, width, and speed) are found to be significantly modified by the effect of physical plasma parameters and external magnetic field. It is found that the nonlinearity of the different types of electronegative plasma system depends on the positive to negative ion mass ratio. It is also shown that the presence of nonthermal distributed electrons and positrons modifies the nature of the MI of the modulated IAWs. The implication of our results for the laboratory plasma [e.g., (Ar+, F−) electronegative plasma] and space plasma [e.g., (H+, H−), () electronegative plasma in D‐F regions of Earth's ionosphere] are briefly discussed.
Eight MeV per charge state from 300 ps laser ion acceleration by using micrometric foils
Authors: Torrisi Lorenzo , Cutroneo Mariapompea , Torrisi Alfio
Published: March 2021

Proton acceleration using high‐intensity laser pulses, at 1016 W/cm2 was studied irradiating different types of thin metal and plastic targets having 1‐micron thickness. The maximization of the proton energy process was investigated optimizing the laser parameters, the irradiation conditions and the target properties. Employing 600–700 J laser pulse energy, a focalization inducing self‐focusing effects and using targets with optimized thickness, it was possible to accelerate protons up to energies of above 8 MeV. The time‐of‐flight diagnostics has allowed to monitor the plasma properties and to control the ion acceleration process.
The all‐on‐4 concept in the maxilla–A biomechanical analysis involving high performance polymers
Authors: Ahmadi Arozo , Dörsam Istabrak , Stark Helmut , Hersey Silke , Bourauel Christoph , Keilig Ludger
Published: March 2021

A finite element analysis was used to determine the loading behavior of a full “All‐on‐4” bridge in the maxilla made from different framework materials. The model was generated based on data from an edentulous maxilla. Four implants were positioned according to the All‐on‐4 concept and a full arch restoration was created on top of the implants. Separate thrust dies were modeled directly above each of the units of the bridge. Forces of 500 N were applied to each thrust die separately. Simulations were repeated with the following variations and results were compared to determine the influence of each variation: point of force application (from tooth 16 to 26), framework material (high performance polymer HPP, titanium Ti, cobalt chromium CoCr), and healing state of the bone/implant interface. Depending on the point of force application, the bone below the HPP framework showed increased stresses (median: 180 MPa at 13) compared to the CoCr and Ti frameworks (110 MPa at 16) under immediate loading. After osseointegration, the framework material had no obvious influence on the stresses in the bone. In the osseointegrated state, maximum stresses are decreased by the tenfold. Stresses in the framework were clearly decreased with HPP compared to CoCr and Ti (75, 125, 115 MPa). Loading the anterior teeth induced higher stresses than loading the molar region due to torsional deformation. This effect increased with decreasing framework material stiffness. The framework stiffness had less distinct influence on the stresses in the restoration than the point of force application.
Time interval between E and E′ waves can predict complicated clinical course in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Acar Emrah , Kilicgedik Alev , Izci Servet , Inanir Mehmet , Yilmaz Mehmet Fatih , Gokce Mustafa , Izgi Ibrahim Akin , Kirma Cevat
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Acute pulmonary embolism is a life‐threatening cardiothoracic emergency leading to right ventricle systolic and diastolic dysfunction. In the present study, we investigated the right ventricle diastolic function and its predictive value in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.

Material and methods

Were prospectively recruited in this study 621 patients diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism between December 2015 and June 2019. Among them, 173 were excluded, leaving 448 patients for follow‐up. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed for the evaluation of the right ventricle systolic and diastolic indices. At 30‐day follow‐up, the patients were allocated either into the benign or in the complicated clinical course group.

Results

The group with complicated clinical course had higher value of pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), right/left ventricle diameter ratio, E‐wave velocity, E/A ratio, A′ wave velocity, E/E′ ratio, and time interval between E and E′ waves (P < .05), but lower values of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, A‐wave velocity, isovolumetric relaxation time, deceleration time, E′, and E′/A′ (P < .05). Complicated clinical course was associated with shorter isovolumetric relaxation time (r = .564,P < .001), E/E′ (r = .495,P < .001), and TE‐E′ (r = .596,P < .001). Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis showed that TE‐E′ had the largest area under curve (TE‐E′ 0.82, IVRT 0.77, E/E′ 0.72). A cut‐off value of TE‐E′ = 70 milliseconds had an 81.1% sensitivity and 71.4% specificity for the prediction of the complicated clinical course.

Conclusion

The assessment of the right ventricle diastolic function could predict the complicated clinical course in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.
Simulation design and students’ satisfaction with home‐based simulation learning in oral health therapy
Authors: Tan Sharon Hui Xuan , Ansari Anshad , Ali Noohu Mohamed Irfan , Yap Adrian Ujin
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The COVID‐19 pandemic presents a challenging situation for dental education, with school closures worldwide. While practical sessions are important for the acquisition of clinical skills, few studies have examined the role of home‐based simulation learning (HBSL). This study aims to identify key aspects of simulation design and factors associated with students’ satisfaction with HBSL.

Methods

During a “circuit‐breaker” period in Singapore, the Nanyang Polytechnic School of Health & Social Sciences (Oral Health Therapy) distributed portable manikins and instruments to students and staff for use at home. Synchronous teaching sessions with real‐time feedback were carried out over the Zoom teleconferencing platform. A cross‐sectional survey of students was conducted after 3 weeks of the HBSL program. Multiple linear regression analyses were carried out to assess the association between satisfaction with domains of simulation design and overall satisfaction with HBSL.

Results

The top three factors of importance to students in HBSL were feedback and guided reflection, support, and objectives and information. Final‐year students expressed higher levels of overall satisfaction and self‐confidence following HBSL than first‐year students. Satisfaction with the objectives (β = 0.42, 95% CI 0.26–0.57), support (β = 0.27, 95% CI 0.11–0.42), and problem‐solving (β = 0.28, 95% CI 0.10–0.46) domains in the Simulation Design Scale were positively associated with overall student satisfaction and self‐confidence in learning.

Conclusion

The findings can aid educators in the design of future HBSL programs, with a focus on areas of simulation design that are of importance to students.
Treatment of medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw using segmental mandibulectomy and a reconstruction plate: A case report and 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Kamaguchi Mayumi , Ohga Noritaka , Hata Hironobu , Yoshikawa Kazuhito , Sakata Ken‐Ichiro , Asaka Takuya , Sato Jun , Kitagawa Yoshimasa
Published: March 2021

Medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has been commonly known as a adverse side effect of antiresorptive or antiangiogenic agents for the treatment of osteoporosis patients. Although there is considerable evidence on the occurrence of MRONJ in the literature, the number of studies focusing on Stage 3 MRONJ attributable to oral administration of bisphosphonates (BPs) in patients with osteoporosis is limited. The patient had exposed necrotic bone in the mandible and pus discharge through an extraoral fistula attributed to an oral BPs for the treatment of steroidal osteoporosis. She was diagnosed with Stage 3 MRONJ. She had no other identifiable cause of mandible necrosis. Given the severity and risk of pathological fractures of the mandibular bone, an extensive surgical therapy was performed after failure of compressive conservative therapy. Our surgical treatment satisfied the patient with regard to esthetics, leading to a dramatic improvement in her quality of life for 5 years after surgery. We report a case of Stage 3 MRONJ associated with BP administration for steroid‐induced osteoporosis and discuss esthetically successful reconstruction of the mandible using mandibular reconstruction plates following segmental mandibulectomy. To prevent such severe complications, it is important to develop appropriate medical and surgical treatment strategy for immunosuppressed patients with osteoporosis.
Nudges Don't Work When the Benefits Are Ambiguous: Evidence from a High‐Stakes Education Program
Authors: Castleman Benjamin L. , Murphy Francis X. , Patterson Richard W. , Skimmyhorn William L.
Published: March 2021

The Post‐9/11 GI Bill allows service members to transfer generous education benefits to a dependent. We run a large‐scale experiment that encourages service members to consider the transfer option among a population that includes individuals for whom the transfer benefits are clear and individuals for whom the net‐benefits are significantly more ambiguous. We find no impact of a one‐time e‐mail about benefits transfer among service members for whom we predict considerable ambiguity in the action, but sizeable impacts among service members for whom education benefits transfer is far less ambiguous. Our work contributes to the nascent literature investigating conditions when low‐touch nudges at scale may be effective.