bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early–Middle Permian strontium isotope stratigraphy of marine carbonates from the northern marginal areas of South China: Controlling factors and implications
Authors: Li Qian , Azmy Karem , Yang Shuai , Xu Sheng‐Lin , Yang Di , Zhang Xi‐Hua , Chen An‐Qing , Chen Hong‐De
Published: October 2020

The radiogenic strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr) system is a powerful tool for constraining sea‐level change and palaeoclimatic variations as well as tectonic activities. The Permian is a period that records the lowest seawater Sr‐isotopic ratios in the Earth's history. The near‐primary geochemical signatures retained in the micritic carbonates of the Luduba section (uppermost lower to Middle Permian) on the northern margin of the South China Block allowed the reconstruction of reliable carbon and Sr‐isotope profiles for global chemostratigraphic correlations. The investigated interval (~300 m) spans the Chihsia and overlying Maokou formations (Kungurian to Capitanian series). The 87Sr/86Sr values decrease consistently upward from 0.70833 to 0.70684, and their trend correlates well with a long‐term increase in the carbon isotope (δ13C) values. The negative correlation between the 87Sr/86Sr and δ13C values suggests that the sea‐level change, climatic conditions, opening of the Neo‐Tethys Ocean, and accretion of the Pangean Supercontinent are among the factors that might have contributed to the consistent depletion of the 87Sr/86Sr values. The rate of upward decrease in 87Sr/86Sr values throughout the Chihsia Formation is generally higher than that of the overlying Maokou Formation, which provides a possible marker for intra‐ and interbasinal basin stratigraphic correlations. The general increase in the δ13C values of the Luduba profile peaks at ~5‰, which correlates with the distinct lowest 87Sr/86Sr value (~0.70684) near the top of the Maokou Formation (Upper Capitanian). The δ13C values decrease to 3.6‰ at the top of the Maokou Formation, that correlates with the rapid sea‐level drop in the Late Guadaualupian worldwide. Meanwhile, the87Sr/86Sr ratios remain low values, probably due to the development of cold climate, increasing input of hydrothermal flux and low terrestrial runoff.
Targeting the sensory feedback within the swallowing network—Reversing artificially induced pharyngolaryngeal hypesthesia by central and peripheral stimulation strategies
Authors: Muhle Paul , Labeit Bendix , Wollbrink Andreas , Claus Inga , Warnecke Tobias , Wolters Carsten H. , Gross Joachim , Dziewas Rainer , Suntrup‐Krueger Sonja
Published: October 2020

Pharyngolaryngeal hypesthesia is a major reason for dysphagia in various neurological diseases. Emerging neuromodulation devices have shown potential to foster dysphagia rehabilitation, but the optimal treatment strategy is unknown. Because functional imaging studies are difficult to conduct in severely ill patients, we induced a virtual sensory lesion in healthy volunteers and evaluated the effects of central and peripheral neurostimulation techniques. In a sham‐controlled intervention study with crossover design on 10 participants, we tested the potential of (peripheral) pharyngeal electrical stimulation (PES) and (central) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to revert the effects of lidocaine‐induced pharyngolaryngeal hypesthesia on central sensorimotor processing. Changes were observed during pharyngeal air‐pulse stimulation and voluntary swallowing applying magnetoencephalography before and after the interventions. PES induced a significant (p < .05) increase of activation during swallowing in the bihemispheric sensorimotor network in alpha and low gamma frequency ranges, peaking in the right premotor and left primary sensory area, respectively. With pneumatic stimulation, significant activation increase was found after PES in high gamma peaking in the left premotor area. Significant changes of brain activation after tDCS could neither be detected for pneumatic stimulation nor for swallowing. Due to the peripheral cause of dysphagia in this model, PES was able to revert the detrimental effects of reduced sensory input on central processing, whereas tDCS was not. Results may have implications for therapeutic decisions in the clinical context.
Mindfulness‐based cognitive therapy on bereavement grief: Alterations of resting‐state network connectivity associate with changes of anxiety and mindfulness
Authors: Huang Feng‐Ying , Hsu Ai‐Ling , Chao Yi‐Ping , Shang Chloe Mu‐Hsuan , Tsai Jaw‐Shiun , Wu Changwei W.
Published: October 2020

Bereavement, the experience of losing a loved one, is one of the most catastrophic but inevitable events in life. It causes grief and intense depression‐like sadness. Recent studies have revealed the effectiveness and proficiency of mindfulness‐based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in emotional regulation among bereavement populations. MBCT improves the well‐being of the bereaved by enhancing cognitive performances. Regarding the neural correlates of bereavement grief, previous studies focused on the alleviation of emotion–cognition interferences at specific brain regions. Here, we hypothesized that the bereavement grief fundamentally triggers global alterations in the resting‐state brain networks and part of the internetwork connectivity could be reformed after MBCT intervention. We recruited 19 bereaved individuals who participated the 8‐week MBCT program. We evaluated (a) the large‐scale changes in brain connectivity affected by the MBCT program; as well as (b) the association between connectivity changes and self‐rated questionnaire. First, after MBCT, the bereaved individuals showed the reduction of the internetwork connectivity in the salience, default‐mode and fronto‐parietal networks in the resting state but not under emotional arousal, implying the alleviated attention to spontaneous mind wandering after MBCT. Second, the alterations of functional connectivity between subcortical (e.g., caudate) and cortical networks (e.g., cingulo‐opercular/sensorimotor) were associated with the changes of the mindfulness scale, the anxiety and the emotion regulation ability. In summary, MBCT could enhance spontaneous emotion regulation among the bereaved individuals through the internetwork reorganizations in the resting state.
Parental attitudes regarding the need for genetic services in a pediatric brain tumor survivorship program
Authors: Zalan Alice , Maga Tara , Perpich Melody , Pillay Smiley Natasha , Weiss McQuaid Shelly
Published: October 2020

Pediatric brain tumor survivorship populations have not been typically offered genetic services as part of routine care. Genetic services can be defined as family history collection, genetic risk assessment for a patient and family members, and coordination of genetic testing. Prior research has focused on the integration of genetic services in the general pediatric oncology survivorship population and found a need for these services to be implemented. Gathering a family history and providing a genetic risk assessment have previously been determined to be an integral step in determining if an individual's cancer was due to a hereditary predisposition. The purpose of this study was to examine parental attitudes regarding the need for genetic services in their child's pediatric brain tumor survivorship clinic. Twelve semi‐structured interviews were conducted with parents participating in the Brain STAR (Survivors Taking Action and Responsibility) program at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. A grounded theory approach was used to code and analyze the results thematically. Five key themes were identified: participants’ perceived benefits and barriers regarding receiving genetic services, desirable time for implementation of these services, relevance of family history, and their thoughts regarding reproductive risk. These results provide insight for genetics professionals regarding the need for genetic services in this population, and how to best implement them.
Microorganization of ovaries and oogenesis of Haplotaxis sp. (Clitellata: Haplotaxidae)
Authors: Urbisz Anna Z. , Martin Patrick , Lagnika Moïssou , Chajec Łukasz , Świątek Piotr
Published: October 2020

Ovaries of Haplotaxis sp. were studied in active and nonactive states, that is, in a sexually mature specimen and in specimens outside of the reproductive period. Two pairs of ovaries were found in segments XI and XII. Especially in the nonactive state, they were in close contact with copulatory glands. Each ovary was composed of germ cells interconnected with syncytial cysts, which were enveloped by a layer of somatic cells. Within cysts each germ cell had one ring canal connecting it to the common anuclear cytoplasmic mass called a cytophore. During oogenesis clustering germ cells differentiated into nurse cells and oocytes; thus, the oogenesis was recognized as meroistic. Vitellogenic oocytes were detached from the ovaries and continued yolk absorption within the body cavity. Because recent studies have shown the variety of ovaries and germ line cyst organization in clitellates and suggest their evolutionary conservatism at the family or subfamily level, the data presented here can be valid in understanding the phylogenetic relationships among Clitellata. In this context, ovaries found in Haplotaxis sp. resembled those of the “Tubifex” type. “Tubifex” ovaries are characteristic for numerous microdrile taxa (tubificines, limnodriloidines, propappids, lumbriculids, and leech‐like branchiobdellids) and can be regarded as the primary character for these Clitellata in which germ‐line cysts are formed during early oogenesis. As the family Haplotaxidae is currently considered to be paraphyletic and the species studied here belongs to Haplotaxidae sensu stricto, our results support the close relationship of Haplotaxidae sensu stricto to the clade consisting of Lumbriculidae, Branchiobdellida, and Hirudinida, in which lumbriculids are sister to the latter two.
Signal Intensity and Volume of Pituitary and Thyroid Glands in Preterm and Term Infants
Authors: Otani Sayo , Fushimi Yasutaka , Iwanaga Kogoro , Tomotaki Seiichi , Yokota Yusuke , Oshima Sonoko , Sakurama Azusa , Wicaksono Krishna Pandu , Hinoda Takuya , Sakata Akihiko , Nakajima Satoshi , Okada Tomohisa , Takita Junko , Kawai Masahiko , Togashi Kaori
Published: October 2020

Background

Hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) maturation has not been extensively evaluated using neonatal MRI, even though both structures are visualized on MRI.

Hypothesis

That signal intensity and volume of pituitary and thyroid (T) glands on MRI in neonates may be interrelated.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 102 participants.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T, T1‐weighted pointwise encoding time reduction with radial acquisition (PETRA).

Assessment

The volume of interest of the anterior pituitary (AP), posterior pituitary (PP), and T on MRI were defined on T1‐PETRA by two radiologists, and volumes of AP (AP_vol) and thyroid (T_vol) were calculated. Gestational age (GA), chronological age (CA), GA+CA, birth weight (BW), and thyroid function were recorded. Mean and maximum signal intensities of AP, PP, and T were normalized using signals from the pons and spinal cord as follows: signal ratio of anterior pituitary/pons (AP/pons), signal ratio of posterior pituitary/pons (PP/pons), and signal ratio of thyroid/cord (T/cord) T/cord, respectively.

Statistical Tests

Correlations between signal intensity and volume measures and GA, CA, GA+CA, and BW were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient or Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Thyroid function analysis and Tmean/cord, Tmax/cord, and T_vol were evaluated using the Steel–Dwass test.

Results

APmean/pons correlated positively with GA (ρ = 0.62, P < 0.001) and BW (ρ = 0.74, P < 0.001), and negatively with CA (ρ = −0.86, P < 0.001) and GA+CA (ρ = −0.46, P < 0.001). PPmean/pons correlated positively with GA (ρ = 0.49, P < 0.001) and BW (ρ = 0.63, P < 0.001), and negatively with CA (ρ = −0.70, P < 0.001) and GA+CA (r = −0.38, P < 0.001). Tmean/cord correlated positively with GA (ρ = 0.48, P < 0.001) and BW (ρ = 0.55, P < 0.001), and negatively with CA (ρ = −0.59, P < 0.001) and GA+CA (ρ = −0.22, P = 0.03). AP_vol correlated positively with GA (ρ = 0.68, P < 0.001) and BW (ρ = 0.73, P < 0.001), and negatively with CA (ρ = −0.72, P < 0.001). T_vol correlated positively with GA (ρ = 0.50, P < 0.001) and BW (ρ = 0.61, P < 0.001), and negatively with CA (ρ = −0.54, P < 0.001). APmean/pons correlated positively with Tmean/cord (ρ = 0.61, P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

Signal and volume of pituitary and thyroid glands correlated positively with GA and BW, and negatively with CA in neonates.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

5
Admission fasting plasma glucose is an independent risk factor for 28‐day mortality in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Yang Ping , Wang Nan , Wang Jingjing , Luo Ailin , Gao Feng , Tu Ye
Published: October 2020

Hyperglycemia commonly occurs in severe cases with COVID‐19. In this study, we explored the associations between admission fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 28‐day mortality in COVID‐19 patients. In this single centre retrospective study, 263 adult patients with COVID‐19 were included. Demographic and clinical information were collected and compared between patients with and without diabetes. Cox regression analyses were used to investigate the risk factors of 28‐day mortality in hospitals. Of 263 patients, 161 (61.2%) were male, 62 (25.6%) had a known history of diabetes, and 135 (51.3%) experienced elevated FPG (>7.0 mmol/L) at hospital admission. The median FPG in patients with diabetes was much higher than in patients without diabetes (12.79 vs. 6.47 mmol/L). Patients with diabetes had higher neutrophil count and D‐dimer, less lymphocyte count, lower albumin level, and more fatal complications. Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that age (per 10‐year increase) (hazard ratio [HR], 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–1.74), admission FPG between 7.0 and 11.0 and ≥11.1 mmol/L (HR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.11–3.25 and HR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.21–3.64, respectively), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR, 2.89; 95% CI, 1.31–6.39), and cardiac injury (HR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.33–3.47) were independent predictors of 28‐day mortality in COVID‐19 patients. Hyperglycemia on admission predicted worse outcome in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. Intensive monitoring and optimal glycemic control may improve the prognosis of COVID‐19 patients.
Variability of monsoon inversion over the Arabian Sea and its impact on rainfall
Authors: Dwivedi Sanjeev , Yesubabu Viswanadhapalli , Ratnam M. Venkat , Dasari Hari Prasad , Langodan Sabique , Raj S. T. Akhil , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: October 2020

This work investigates the spatial and temporal variability of the monsoon inversion (MI) over the Arabian Sea for the study of 37‐years period (1980–2016) using MERRA version2 (MERRA2) reanalysis and downscaled simulations generated with the Weather and Research Forecasting (WRF) model. After validating the downscaled products with the observations from four radiosonde stations (Salalah, Mumbai, Goa and Mangalore), we analysed the variability of MI from diurnal to seasonal scales. The diurnal evolution of the MI suggests that radiative cooling over the Arabian Peninsula at night, together with the onset of boundary layer jets along the coast of Oman, play an important role in amplifying the intensity and spatial extent of the MI during night and into the early morning hours. A seasonal analysis of the simulated winds and MI reveals that WRF reproduced the monsoon characteristics as observed in MERRA2 reanalysis, including the spatial and vertical orientations of the MI. The downscaled winds are slightly overestimated (by 1–2 m⋅s−1) over the Arabian Sea, which resulted in an increased simulated wind shear over the western Arabian Sea, ultimately manifested in the form of an enhanced MI. We further investigated the variability of the lower tropospheric wind speed and associated changes in MI over the 37‐year period. This reveals a significant decreasing trend during the summer monsoon over the western Arabian Sea. We argue that this led to a decreasing trend in the lower tropospheric wind shear and advection of temperature and hence, reduced the frequency of occurrence of the MI (shown in graphical abstract).
Slope instabilities in steep cultivation systems: Process classification and opportunities from remote sensing
Authors: Tarolli Paolo , Pijl Anton , Cucchiaro Sara , Wei Wei
Published: October 2020

The cultivation of steep slopes is a widespread practice in hilly and mountainous areas around the world. Such environments often result in particular agricultural systems linked with unique local values of historical and cultural heritage, economy, and food security. However, steep‐slope agriculture is inherently exposed to slope instability processes, which are now widely aggravated due to natural (e.g., growing rainfall aggressiveness) and anthropogenic factors (e.g., unsuitable maintenance or agronomic practices). In the literature, among the many articles published on soil erosion, a specific focus on the analysis of slope instabilities in steep cultivation systems is lacking. The purpose of this article is, therefore, to create a specific overview of this problem, with some useful insights into the role of remote sensing. We introduce the problem first, highlighting the main issues related to slope instabilities in steep cultivated areas. Then we provided a classification of key published papers, based on the different types of mass movements studied and their location in the world. The spatial comparison of past research and estimated global hazard of the mass movement in agricultural areas highlighted a relevant bias: a strong scientific focus on southern European countries, yet large rural areas are at risk on all continents, many of these unexplored by science. The third section is related to the contribution of remote sensing technologies (e.g., LiDAR and RPAS photogrammetry) in mapping the investigated processes. This study could help to guide future research for better management of such socio‐economically relevant agricultural landscapes.
Metabolism of Storage Lipids and the Role of Lipid Droplets in the Yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Hapala Ivan , Griac Peter , Holic Roman
Published: October 2020

Storage lipids, triacylglycerols (TAG), and steryl esters (SE), are predominant constituents of lipid droplets (LD) in fungi. In several yeast species, metabolism of TAG and SE is linked to various cellular processes, including cell division, sporulation, apoptosis, response to stress, and lipotoxicity. In addition, TAG are an important source for the generation of value‐added lipids for industrial and biomedical applications. The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is a widely used unicellular eukaryotic model organism. It is a powerful tractable system used to study various aspects of eukaryotic cellular and molecular biology. However, the knowledge of S. pombe neutral lipids metabolism is quite limited. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current knowledge of the homeostasis of storage lipids and of the role of LD in the fission yeast S. pombe with the aim to stimulate research of lipid metabolism and its connection with other essential cellular processes. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of fission yeast in lipid biotechnology and recent achievements in the use of S. pombe in the biotechnological production of valuable lipid compounds.
lnc‐HOTAIR predicts hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 following direct‐acting antivirals therapy
Authors: El‐Khazragy Nashwa , Elshimy Amal Ali , Hassan Safaa Shawky , Shaaban Mohamed Hafez , Bayoumi Ahmed Hamed , El Magdoub Hekmat M. , Ghozy Sherief , Gaballah Ahmed , Aboelhussein Marwa M. , Abou Gabal Hoda H. , Bannunah Azzah M. , Mansy Azza EL‐Sayed
Published: October 2020

Emerging hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been sequentially reported in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) treated with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs). Homeobox transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR), an oncogene, has been reported to be associated with cancer. We investigated the predictive value of lnc‐HOTAIR for HCC surveillance in chronic HCV patients following DAAs therapy. The expression levels of lnc‐HOTAIR and ATG‐7 genes were measured in 220 with chronic HCV, following a DAAs based therapy for 12 weeks, the patients were followed‐up for attentive surveillance of HCC for 12 months after starting DAAs. In terms of lnc‐HOTAIR, patients with HCC and high viral load had significantly higher median expression levels of HOTAIR of (68 vs. 24; p = .001) and (94 vs. 52; p = .001), respectively. Moreover, the median expression level of ATG‐7 was higher in those who developed HCC (114 vs. 51; p = .001). The expression of lnc‐HOTAIR and ATG‐7 are significant predictors of the development of HCC in HCV‐4 infected patients treated with DAAs, with a cut‐off value of 37 and 86, respectively. The increased expression levels of lnc‐HOTAIR more than 68 in HCC patients following DAAs were correlated with poorer disease outcomes compared to those with lower expression levels; however, ATG‐7 expression levels more than 114 were correlated with worse overall survival but not the progression‐free one. We suggest that high expression levels of lnc‐HOTAIR could serve as a risk assessment biomarker for HCC before and during DAAs course therapy in Chronic HCV‐4 patients, and should be rigorously taken into consideration before DAAs.
Simultaneous dose and dose rate optimization (SDDRO) for FLASH proton therapy
Authors: Gao Hao , Lin Bowen , Lin Yuting , Fu Shujun , Langen Katja , Liu Tian , Bradley Jeffery
Published: October 2020

Purpose

FLASH radiotherapy (RT) can potentially reduce normal tissue toxicity while preserving tumoricidal effectiveness to improve the therapeutic ratio. The key of FLASH for sparing normal tissues is to irradiate tissues with an ultra‐high dose rate (i.e., ≥40 Gy/s), for which proton RT can be used. However, currently available treatment plan optimization method only optimizes the dose distribution and does not directly optimize the dose rate. The contribution of this work to FLASH proton RT is the development of a novel treatment optimization method, that is, simultaneous dose and dose rate optimization (SDDRO), to optimize tissue‐receiving dose rate distribution as well as dose distribution.

Methods

Distinguished from existing methods, SDDRO accounts for dose rate constraint and optimizes dose rate distribution. In terms of mathematical formulation, SDDRO is a constrained optimization problem with dose‐volume constraint on dose distribution, minimum dose rate constraint on dose‐averaged tissue‐receiving dose rates, minimum monitor unit constraint on spot weight, and maximum intensity constraint on beam intensity. In terms of optimization algorithm, SDDRO is solved by iterative convex relaxation and alternating direction method of multipliers. SDDRO algorithms are presented for both scenarios with either constant or variable beam intensity.

Results

SDDRO was compared with intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) (dose optimization alone, and no dose rate optimization) using three lung cases. SDDRO substantially improved the dose rate distribution compared to IMPT, for example, increasing of the region‐of‐interest (ROI) volume (ROI = CTV_10mm: the ring sandwiched by 10 mm outer and inner expansion of CTV boundary) receiving at least 40 Gy/s from ~30–50% to at least 98%, and the lung volume receiving at least 40 Gy/s from ~30–40% to ~70–90%. Moreover, both dose and dose rate distributions from SDDRO were further considerably improved via the combined use of hypofractionation and multiple beams.

Conclusions

We have developed a joint dose and dose rate optimization method for FLASH proton RT, namely SDDRO, which is first‐of‐its‐kind to the best of our knowledge. The results suggest that (a) SDDRO can substantially improve the FLASH‐dose rate coverage (e.g., in terms of dose rate volume histogram) compared to IMPT for the purpose of normal tissue sparing while preserving the dose distribution and (b) the combination of hypofractionation and multiple beams can further considerably improve the SDDRO plan quality in terms of both dose and dose rate distribution.
Reflective capacity in nurses in specialist education: Swedish translation and psychometric evaluation of the Reflective Capacity Scale of the Reflective Practice Questionnaire
Authors: Gustafsson Silje , Engström Åsa , Lindgren Britt‐Marie , Gabrielsson Sebastian
Published: October 2020

Aim

This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of the Reflective Capacity Scale of the Reflective Practice Questionnaire in a nursing context.

Design

Non‐experimental and cross‐sectional.

Methods

The instrument was translated from English to Swedish using a translation and back‐translation procedure. Data for the validity and reliability analysis were collected from Registered Nurses in specialist education (n = 156) at two Swedish universities.

Results

The Swedish version of the Reflective Capacity Scale of the Reflective Practice Questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument that assesses the reflective capacity of healthcare practitioners. Our findings suggest a unidimensional structure of the instrument, excellent internal consistency and good reliability.

Conclusion

The Swedish version of the Reflective Capacity Scale of the Reflective Practice Questionnaire has a degree of reliability and validity that is satisfactory, indicating that the instrument can be used as an assessment of reflective capacity in nurses.
Enzymatic synthesis and characterization of muconic acid‐based unsaturated polymer systems
Authors: Maniar Dina , Fodor Csaba , Adi Indra Karno , Woortman Albert JJ , van Dijken Jur , Loos Katja
Published: October 2020

The design of unsaturated aliphatic (co)polyester systems, based on different diester‐modified muconic acid isomers, was performed via an eco‐friendly pathway by utilizing enzymatic polymerization using Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) as catalyst. The obtained fully unsaturated oligoesters and polyesters reached lower molecular weights from 2210 to 2900 g mol−1 for the cis,cis‐(Z,Z)‐muconate isomer, and higher molecular weights of up to 21 200 g mol−1 for the polymers with cis,trans‐(Z,E) isomeric structures. The obtained (co)polyesters were thoroughly characterized and compared with their saturated polyester analogues. The applied biobased catalyst Novozym®435 (an immobilized form of CALB) showed higher selectivity towards the open cis,trans‐muconate compared to the more closed‐structure cis,cis‐muconate. Results of 1H NMR analysis showed that alkene functionality is present, and no stereo conformational changes were detected in the resulting polymers. The thermal properties of the muconate‐based polyesters showed a glass transition between −7 and 12 °C, and a one‐step degradation process with a maximum rate of weight loss between 415 and 431 °C, depending both on the conformation of the applied diester derivatives and on the segment lengths of the polyoxyalkylenes. Mass spectrometric analysis of the resulting saturated and unsaturated polyesters revealed five different microstructures with different terminal end groups, such as ester/hydroxyl, acid/ester, ester/ester and acid/hydroxyl, and cyclic polyesters without functional end groups. Overall, this study demonstrates that enzymatic polymerization is a robust approach for the synthesis of unsaturated polyesters. © 2020 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Influence of pelvic lymph node dissection and node‐positive disease on biochemical recurrence, secondary treatment, and survival after radical prostatectomy in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Washington Samuel L. , Cowan Janet E. , Herlemann Annika , Zuniga Kyle B. , Masic Selma , Nguyen Hao G. , Carroll Peter R.
Published: October 2020

Background

The benefit of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) at radical prostatectomy (RP) remains unclear given the low prevalence of known nodal disease (pN1) and concerns about its therapeutic utility.

Objective

To characterize the impact of PLND and secondary treatment on oncologic outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cohort study of men who underwent primary RP with PLND for prostate cancer (PCa) at our institution since 2003. Men stratified by nodal status.

Outcome Measures and Statistical Analysis

Outcomes include biochemical recurrence‐free survival (bRFS), overall survival, and PCa‐specific mortality (PCSM). Multivariable Cox regression models used for each outcome.

Results and Limitations

Of 1,543 men who underwent primary RP, 174 (11%) had pN1 disease. Median follow‐up was 34 months (interquartile range, 15–62). Seven‐year outcomes were similar whether less than or ≥14 LNs dissected. Among node‐positive patients, 29% had undetectable (UDT) prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), 11% had UDT PSA + adjuvant therapy, and 60% had detectable PSA, and 7‐year bRFS differed (75% for UDT PSA, 90% for UDT + adjuvant therapy, 38% for detectable PSA, p < .01). Survival outcomes did not differ. In multivariable analysis, detectable PSA (vs. UDT, HR 5.2, 95% CI 2.0–13.3) associated with worse bRFS. After salvage treatment, 7‐year outcomes did not differ between groups. Study limited by retrospective review.
Mechanical behavior of high entropy carbide (HfTaZrTi)C and (HfTaZrNb)C under high pressure: Ab initio study
Authors: Jiang Shan , Shao Lin , Fan Touwen , Duan Jia‐Ming , Chen Xiao‐Tao , Tang Bi‐Yu
Published: October 2020

The evolution of structural, elastic, and electronic properties of high entropy carbide (HfTaZrTi)C and (HfTaZrNb)C under high pressure have been studied within the framework of density functional theory (DFT) in conjunction with special quasirandom structures. With increasing pressure, lattice constants of high entropy carbides (HfTaZrTi)C and (HfTaZrNb)C gradually decrease, so volumes shrink, and densities gradually increase. Under high pressure up to 200 GPa, elastic stiffness coefficients for both carbides are almost linearly hardened and meet the elastic stability criteria. With increasing pressure, elastic moduli and Debye temperature of both high entropy carbides (HfTaZrTi)C and (HfTaZrNb)C increase, while theoretical Vickers hardness decreases, although Vickers hardness of (HfTaZrNb)C is always higher than (HfTaZrTi)C in the whole pressure. The ductility of (HfTaZrTi)C and (HfTaZrNb)C is improved under pressure, and brittle‐ductile transition occurs at about 50 and 60 GPa, respectively. The electronic structure demonstrates that, with increasing pressure, covalent bonds between transition metal atoms and carbon atoms are strengthened, accompanying delocalization. This effect is responsible for high values of bulk modulus and shear modulus under pressure and enhanced ductility. The ionic bonds of both high entropy carbides weaken with increasing pressure, and (HfTaZrTi)C is affected more strongly by the pressure.
Photocatalysis Within Intrinsic Spontaneous Polarization Electric Field
Authors: He Jiari , Zhao Yan , Jiang Shujuan , Song Shaoqing
Published: October 2020

Fast recombination of charges in bulk or on the surface of semiconductors seriously hinders the conversion efficiency of solar energy due to the inherent challenge of transferring two opposite charges to redox sites separately and simultaneously. Intrinsic spontaneous polarization electric fields (ISPEFs) are considered a promising strategy to solve these challenges, thereby significantly boosting the solar photocatalytic conversion efficiency. In this article, developments for solar energy conversion efficiency under the action of an ISPEF are concluded and reviewed. The key points are the recent research progress on spatial separation and directional transfer under an ISPEF induced by macroscopic, piezoelectric, ferroelectric, and surface or interfacial polarization. Particularly, basic principles of ISPEFs over different types of polarization materials are systematically discussed. Ultimately, future research directions and opportunities for polarization photocatalyst materials with an ISPEF are proposed.
Multi‐Objective Optimization of Slab Heating Process in Walking Beam Reheating Furnace Based on Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Ding Jing-Guo , Kong Ling-Pu , Guo Jin-Hua , Song Meng-Xue , Jiao Zhi-Jie
Published: October 2020

The unreasonably high heating process temperature of slab in furnace leads to many heating defects. To avoid these, a multi‐objective optimization method is proposed for furnace temperature setting based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. A 2D model of the finite difference scheme, in which the thickness and width were unequally partitioned, is investigated. The distance between two neighbouring nodes increased with the thickness and width, and the effects of a more detailed grid on the surface or side are observed along with influence of a rough grid in the core. Then, a multi‐objective optimization function of the temperature setting, from which energy consumption and the oxidation and burning loss should be minimized, is established. The PSO algorithm is implemented to calculate the optimal value of the multi‐objective optimization function. The application results show that average temperature differences at the quarter and midpoint thicknesses between the predicted model and measured values decrease from 53.4 to 8.5 °C and 43.6 to 11.4 °C, respectively; furthermore, the average oxidation and burning loss rate decrease from 0.93% to 0.79%. Average energy consumption decreases from 1.57 to 1.33 GJ t−1, thereby considerably reducing the energy consumption of the reheating furnace and minimizing the production cost.
The influence of in‐plane restraint on the point load resistance of fiber reinforced shotcrete
Authors: Reid Stuart Grant , Bernard Erik Stefan
Published: October 2020

Fiber Reinforced Shotcrete (FRS) is an essential element of ground control in many types of underground structure. It has been found to be an important aid to the improvement of safety in underground spaces and is a highly effective method of ground control across a wide range of ground conditions. However, the design of FRS linings remains problematic and uncertainty exists regarding the true load capacity of linings, especially with regard to out‐of‐plane load resistance. Most existing methods utilize either an elastic method of analysis or Yield Line theory to estimate load resistance, but these methods fail to account for the beneficial effect that in‐plane restraint has on load resistance. To address this short‐coming, the present research describes an experimental programme to examine the effect of Compressive Membrane Action (CMA) on the out‐of‐plane load capacity of shotcrete panels. The results demonstrate that the in‐plane restraint against dilation around a localized failure in a wall could contribute to at least a doubling of out‐of‐plane load resistance compared to estimates based on standard unrestrained beam and panel tests. Results of the experimental study have been used to develop an approximate mathematical model that describes the observed behavior with regard to the flexural strength enhancement associated with membrane compression and the contribution to load resistance associated with the development of inclined membrane struts and arching action.
Photo‐responsive nanozymes: Mechanism, activity regulation, and biomedical applications
Authors: Wang Chaohui , Wang Hongyu , Xu Bolong , Liu Huiyu
Published: October 2020

Nanozyme is defined as a nanomaterial‐based artificial enzyme. It has rapidly attracted interest and been regarded as a promising alternative to natural enzymes due to its low cost, high stability, and high activity. Many researchers have recently paid attention to the optical properties of nanozymes and have found a variety of nanozymes with excellent photoactivity, called photo‐responsive nanozymes. In this minireview, we briefly introduce the mechanisms of photo‐responsive nanozymes, especially for the relationship between the enzyme‐like activity and photoactivity. Some activity regulation strategies for improving the performance of photo‐responsive nanozymes are also summarized. Moreover, the synergy of enzyme‐like activity and photoactivity in biomedical applications will also be discussed, including cancer therapy, antibacteria, and biological detection. We believe this minireview will be of great significance for understanding the optical properties of nanozymes and applying them in biomedicine.
Mobile Health und digitale Biomarker: Daten als „neues Blut“ für die P4-Medizin bei Parkinson und Epilepsie
Authors: Meister Sven , Houta Salima , Bisgin Pinar
Published: October 2020

Mobile Health hat bereits eine über 10-jährige Forschungshistorie hinter sich. Kommend aus dem Bereich des Quantified-Self zur Dokumentation eigener Gesundheitsparameter, sollte insbesondere die Forschungsfrage der Compliance den Schulterschluss zur medizinischen Anwendung schaffen. Phänomene wie die „App-Attrition“, also die Abnutzung der App-Nutzung, erfragen jedoch nach Anreizmodellen für eine dauerhafte Nutzung, wie sie gerade bei Chronikern notwendig sind. Daten – das „neue Blut“ – scheinen das Potenzial zu haben Mehrwerte für den Patienten wie auch für die Leistungserbringer generieren zu können. Die Autoren zeigen, wie mHealth mit Aspekten der Datenverarbeitung zur Verbesserung der medizinischen Versorgung zusammenspielen kann. Das führende Konzept bilden die sog. Digitalen Biomarker – validierbare Algorithmen, welche die durch Sensoren und Apps erfassten Daten verarbeiten und quantifizierte Aussagen zum Gesundheitszustand treffen können. Zwei Fallbeispiele zeigen, wie ein solcher Systemansatz im Bereich der Epilepsie und der Parkinsontherapie unterstützen kann.
de Sitter in non-supersymmetric string theories: no-go theorems and brane-worlds
Authors: Basile Ivano , Lanza Stefano
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We study de Sitter configurations in ten-dimensional string models where supersymmetry is either absent or broken at the string scale. To this end, we derive expressions for the cosmological constant in general warped flux compactifications with localized sources, which yield no-go theorems that extend previous works on supersymmetric cases. We frame our results within a dimensional reduction and connect them to a number of Swampland conjectures, corroborating them further in the absence of supersymmetry. Furthermore, we construct a top-down string embedding of de Sitter brane-world cosmologies within unstable anti-de Sitter landscapes, providing a concrete realization of a recently revisited proposal.
The connection between the dynamic remodeling of the mitochondrial network and the regulation of muscle mass
Authors: Romanello Vanina , Sandri Marco
Published: October 2020

The dynamic coordination of processes controlling the quality of the mitochondrial network is crucial to maintain the function of mitochondria in skeletal muscle. Changes of mitochondrial proteolytic system, dynamics (fusion/fission), and mitophagy induce pathways that affect muscle mass and performance. When muscle mass is lost, the risk of disease onset and premature death is dramatically increased. For instance, poor quality of muscles correlates with the onset progression of several age-related disorders such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, and aging sarcopenia. To date, there are no drug therapies to reverse muscle loss, and exercise remains the best approach to improve mitochondrial health and to slow atrophy in several diseases. This review will describe the principal mechanisms that control mitochondrial quality and the pathways that link mitochondrial dysfunction to muscle mass regulation.
Feasibility and safety of antepartum tactile imaging
Authors: Rusavy Zdenek , Kalis Vladimir , Aglyamov Salavat , Egorov Vladimir
Published: October 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

Quantitative characterization of the birth canal and critical structures before delivery may provide risk assessment for maternal birth injury. The objective of this study was to explore imaging capability of an antepartum tactile imaging (ATI) probe.

Methods

Twenty randomly selected women older than 21 years with completed 35th week of pregnancy and a premise of vaginal delivery were enrolled in the feasibility study. The biomechanical data were acquired using the ATI probe with a double-curved surface, shaped according to the fetal skull and equipped with 168 tactile sensors and an electromagnetic motion tracking sensor. Software package COMSOL Multiphysics was used for finite element modeling. Subjects were asked for assessment of pain and comfort levels experienced during the ATI examination.

Results

All 20 nulliparous women were successfully examined with the ATI. Mean age was 27.8 ± 4.1 years, BMI 30.7 ± 5.8, and week of pregnancy 38.8 ± 1.4. Biomechanical mapping with the ATI allowed real-time observation of the probe location, applied load to the vaginal walls, and a 3D tactile image composition. The nonlinear finite element model describing the stress–strain relationship of the pelvic tissue was developed and used for calculation of Young’s modulus (E). Average perineal elastic modulus was 11.1 ± 4.3 kPa, levator ani 4.8 ± 2.4 kPa, and symphysis–perineum distance was 30.1 ± 6.9 mm. The pain assessment level for the ATI examination was 2.1 ± 0.8 (scale 1–4); the comfort level was 2.05 ± 0.69 (scale 1–3).

Conclusions

The antepartum examination with the ATI probe allowed measurement of the tissue elasticity and anatomical distances. The pain level was low and the comfort level was comparable with manual palpation.
CpG preconditioning reduces accumulation of lysophosphatidylcholine in ischemic brain tissue after middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Mavroudakis Leonidas , Stevens Susan L. , Duncan Kyle D. , Stenzel-Poore Mary P. , Laskin Julia , Lanekoff Ingela
Published: October 2020

Ischemic stroke is one of the major causes of death and permanent disability in the world. However, the molecular mechanisms surrounding tissue damage are complex and further studies are needed to gain insights necessary for development of treatment. Prophylactic treatment by administration of cytosine-guanine (CpG) oligodeoxynucleotides has been shown to provide neuroprotection against anticipated ischemic injury. CpG binds to Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) causing initialization of an inflammatory response that limits visible ischemic damages upon subsequent stroke. Here, we use nanospray desorption electrospray ionization (nano-DESI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) to characterize molecular effects of CpG preconditioning prior to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and reperfusion. By doping the nano-DESI solvent with appropriate internal standards, we can study and compare distributions of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) in the ischemic hemisphere of the brain despite the large changes in alkali metal abundances. Our results show that CpG preconditioning not only reduces the infarct size but it also decreases the degradation of PC and accumulation of LPC species, which indicates reduced cell membrane breakdown and overall ischemic damage. Our findings show that molecular mechanisms of PC degradation are intact despite CpG preconditioning but that these are limited due to the initialized inflammatory response.
Tuberculosis following programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor in a patient with non-small cell lung cancer. Case report and literature review
Authors: Suliman Aasir M. , Bek Shaza A. , Elkhatim Mohamed S. , Husain Ahmed A. , Mismar Ahmad Y. , Eldean M. Z. Sharaf , Lengyel Zsolt , Elazzazy Shereen , Rasul Kakil I. , Omar Nabil E.
Published: October 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)—anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) and their ligands (PD-L1 and PD-L2) have become widely used in the treatment of several malignancies. Many immune-related adverse events (irAEs) have been linked to these agents. Nonetheless, tuberculosis (TB) reactivation during their use is increasingly recognized and reported. Herein, we present a 58-year-old lady with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) ALK-negative, EGFR wild, and PD-L1 immune histochemistry (IHC) strongly positive in 95% of tumor cells, on ongoing treatment with Pembrolizumab as a first-line monotherapy. Our patient presented with 1-week history of productive cough and high-grade fever. Further workup yielded the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis after her Pembrolizumab sixth cycle with positive AFB smear and TB PCR from BAL (rifampin resistance not detected), with negative HIV status. Hence, immunotherapy was held, and patient was commenced on anti-TB regimen. History revealed contact with active TB patient over the past decade, without previous documentation of latent TB or previous TB infection. Her sputum AFB smear remained persistently positive 4 weeks through anti-TB regimen course. Later, the patient was discharged after her sputum was cleared from AFB (two negative sets). In light of pembrolizumab mechanism of action as an immune checkpoint inhibitor, we suspected its implication on reactivating latent TB which was observed in our patient demonstrating features of pulmonary tuberculosis. She was not re-challenged with Pembrolizumab following TB diagnosis.
Efficacy and safety of sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy in previously untreated advanced or metastatic nonsquamous or squamous NSCLC: two cohorts of an open-label, phase 1b study
Authors: Jiang Haiping , Zheng Yulong , Qian Jiong , Mao Chenyu , Xu Xin , Li Ning , Xiao Cheng , Wang Huan , Teng Lisong , Zhou Hui , Wang Shuyan , Zhu Donglei , Sun Tao , Yu Yingying , Guo Wenying , Xu Nong
Published: October 2020

Combining chemotherapy with immunotherapy improves the therapeutic outcome for first-line (1L) patients with advance nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Two cohorts of a phase 1b study (NCT02937116) aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sintilimab, a PD-1 inhibitor, plus chemotherapy in 1L patients with nonsquamous and squamous NSCLC (nsqNSCLC/sqNSCLC); and to identify potential biomarkers for treatment response. Treatment-naïve patients with nsqNSCLC were enrolled and intravenously given sintilimab (200 mg), pemetrexed (500 mg/m2), and cisplatin (75 mg/m2), every 3 weeks (Q3W) for 4 cycles in cohort D. Treatment-naïve patients with sqNSCLC were enrolled and intravenously given sintilimab (200 mg), gemcitabine (1250 mg/m2), and cisplatin (75 mg/m2), Q3W, for 6 cycles in cohort E. The primary objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the treatment. The additional objective was to explore biomarkers for the treatment efficacy. Twenty-one patients with nsqNSCLC, and 20 patients with sqNSCLC were enrolled in cohort D and cohort E, respectively. By the data cutoff (April 17, 2019), 8 (38.1%) patients in cohort D and 17 (85.0%) patients in cohort E experienced grade 3–4 adverse events. The median follow-up duration was 16.4 months (14.8–23.0) in cohort D and 15.9 months (11.7–17.7) in cohort E. The objective response rate was 68.4% (95% CI 43.4%, 87.4%) in cohort D and 64.7% (95% CI 38.3%, 85.8%) in cohort E. Neither PD-L1 expression nor tumor mutation burden value was significantly associated with an improved treatment response. Sintilimab plus chemotherapy exhibited manageable toxicity and an encouraging antitumor activity in patients with nsqNSCLC and sqNSCLC.