bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brachytherapy for Oesophageal Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review of Literature and Techniques
Authors: Kulshrestha Rashi , Gupta Anil , Sharma Daya Nand , Singh Kishore
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

Oesophageal carcinoma is one of the fatal cancers mainly because of its rapid spread and poor prognosis. Treatment modalities involves a multimodality approach, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Radiation therapy includes brachytherapy in the form of intraluminal radiation therapy. Brachytherapy permits delivery of high tumouricidal doses to superficial cancerous growth of the oesophagus while delivering much lower doses to the surrounding tissue. It is mostly given in combination with external beam radiation in patients with poor performance scores not likely to tolerate an aggressive chemoradiation regimen or as a boost to concurrent chemoradiotherapy. It is very effective in terms of local tumour control as well as in relieving symptoms in advanced/recurrent disease. Intraoperative brachytherapy and seed brachytherapy have also been tried to address the nodal disease.

Methods:

We undertook a review of the available literature and techniques developed in the past three decades to emphasise the role of brachytherapy in curative or palliative settings in the treatment of oesophageal carcinoma.

Conclusion:

Oesophageal brachytherapy will remain a tangible treatment of oesophageal cancer, although it is less commonly used due to high expertise requirement, lack of established evidence, risk of life-threatening complications and lack of interest in brachytherapy. It offers quick and useful palliation for a prolonged period, along with good quality of life and superior dosimetry. Use of novel applicators may allow dose escalation and lower toxicity. Seed brachytherapy is also emerging as a promising option in nodal recurrences.
Concurrent high-dose intensity-modulated radiotherapy and chemotherapy for unresectable locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer: a pilot study
Authors: Matsumoto Kenichi , Miyamoto Akihiko , Kawase Tomoya , Murai Taro , Shibamoto Yuta
Published: January 2021

Aim:

To evaluate the efficacy of concurrent chemotherapy and high-dose (≥55 Gy) intensity-modulated radiotherapy (CCIMRT) in comparison with chemotherapy alone and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) alone for unresectable locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Methods:

Forty-six patients with pancreatic cancer undergoing CCIMRT (n = 17), chemotherapy alone (n = 16) or IMRT alone (n = 13) were analysed. Overall survival (OS), locoregional progression-free survival (LRPFS) and gastrointestinal toxicities were evaluated. The median radiation dose was 60 Gy (range, 55–60) delivered in a median of 25 fractions (range, 24–30). Gemcitabine (GEM) alone, GEM + S-1, S-1 alone, FOLFIRINOX and GEM + nab-paclitaxel were used in CCIMRT and chemo-monotherapy.

Results:

The 1-year OS rate was 69% in the CCIMRT group, 27% in the chemotherapy group and 38% in the IMRT group (p = 0·12). The 1-year LRPFS rate was 73, 0 and 40% in the 3 groups, respectively (p = 0·012). Acute Grade ≥ 2 gastrointestinal toxicity (nausea, diarrhea) was observed in 12% (2/17) in the CCIMRT group, 25% (4/16) in the chemotherapy group and 7·7% (1/13) in the IMRT group (p = 0·38). Late Grade 3 gastrointestinal bleeding was observed in 6·3% (1/16) in the chemotherapy group.

Conclusion:

High-dose CCIMRT yielded acceptable toxicity and favorable OS and LRPFS.
Selecting life course frameworks to guide and communicate large new cohort studies: Generation Victoria (GenV) case study
Authors: Wang Jing , Hu Yanhong Jessika , Clifford Susan , Goldfeld Sharon , Wake Melissa
Published: January 2021

While birth cohorts are shaped by underpinning life course frameworks, few if any report how they select them. This review aimed to (1) summarise publicly available frameworks relevant to planning and communicating large new early-life cohorts and (2) help select frameworks to guide and communicate Generation Victoria (GenV), a whole-of-state birth and parent cohort in planning in the state of Victoria, Australia. We identified potential frameworks from prior knowledge, networks and a pragmatic literature search in 2019. We considered for inclusion only frameworks with an existing visual graphic. We summarised each framework’s concept, then judged it on a seven-item matrix (Scope, Dimensions, Outcomes, Life course, Mechanisms, Multi-age, and Visual Clarity) to be of high, intermediate or low relevance to GenV. We presented and evaluated 14 life course frameworks across research and policy. Two, nine and three frameworks, respectively, were ranked as high, intermediate and low relevance to GenV, although none totally communicated its scope and intent. Shonkoff’s biodevelopmental framework was selected as GenV’s primary framework, adapted to include ongoing feedback loops through the life course and influence of an individual’s outcomes on the next generation. Because conceptual simplicity precluded the primary framework from capturing the wide range of relevant exposures, we selected the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s person-centred model as a secondary framework. This summary of existing life course frameworks may prove helpful to other cohorts in planning. Our transparent process and focus on visual communication are already assisting in explaining and selecting measures for GenV. The feasibility, comprehension and validity of these frameworks could be further tested at implementation.
On the Errors of Estimating Oceanic Eddy Kinetic Energy
Authors: Zhou Guidi , Cheng Xuhua
Published: January 2021

When evaluating the kinetic energy of the eddy field, using a flow‐decomposition method to split the eddies from the mean‐flow is often necessary. However, the kinetic energies of the eddy and mean‐flow may not sum up to the total energy, because of the existence of a third term, the residual kinetic energy (RKE). This paper attempts to thoroughly assess the RKE from both theoretical and observational perspectives. It is shown that the instantaneous RKE can be quite large, therefore should not be ignored in the time‐varying energetics. The Reynolds decomposition, however, eliminate the time‐mean RKE. It is thus a good practice to study the energy budget in the sense of time‐mean. A running piece‐wise Reynolds decomposition is proposed to allow for choosing the scales of interest while retaining the feature of zero mean RKE. Another decomposition method, the temporal filtering using spectral truncation, are inspected in detail. Based on 26‐years realistic ocean observations, it is found that the ratio between the mean RKE and mean total energy (the Mean Residual Energy Error [MREE]) depends on the spectral shape, the cutoff period, and the available data length. Maximum MREE for cutoff period of 1 year is about 20%. Spatially, the MREE concentrates in zonal bands migrating poleward with increasing cutoff period. MREE from the temporal and spatial coarse‐graining filters with the boxcar and Gaussian kernels are also evaluated. The necessity to estimate the MREE before analyzing the energy budget is emphasized, lest the RKE takes up a non‐negligible portion.
Altered temporal, but intact spatial, features of transient network dynamics in psychosis
Authors: Wang Danhong , Peng Xiaolong , Pelletier-Baldelli Andrea , Orlov Natasza , Farabaugh Amy , Nasr Shahin , Eryilmaz Hamdi , Fava Maurizio , Holmes Avram J. , Roffman Joshua L. , Liu Hesheng , Holt Daphne J.
Published: January 2021

Contemporary models of psychosis suggest that a continuum of severity of psychotic symptoms exists, with subthreshold psychotic experiences (PEs) potentially reflecting some genetic and environmental risk factors shared with clinical psychosis. Thus, identifying abnormalities in brain activity that manifest across this continuum can shed new light on the pathophysiology of psychosis. Here, we investigated the moment-to-moment engagement of brain networks (“states”) in individuals with schizophrenia (SCZ) and PEs and identified features of these states that are associated with psychosis-spectrum symptoms. Transient brain states were defined by clustering “single snapshots” of blood oxygen level-dependent images, based on spatial similarity of the images. We found that individuals with SCZ (n = 35) demonstrated reduced recruitment of three brain states compared to demographically matched healthy controls (n = 35). Of these three illness-related states, one specific state, involving primarily the visual and salience networks, also occurred at a lower rate in individuals with persistent PEs (n = 22), compared to demographically matched healthy youth (n = 22). Moreover, the occurrence rate of this marker brain state was negatively correlated with the severity of PEs (r = −0.26, p = 0.003, n = 130). In contrast, the spatial map of this state appeared to be unaffected in the SCZ or PE groups. Thus, reduced engagement of a brain state involving the visual and salience networks was demonstrated across the psychosis continuum, suggesting that early disruptions of perceptual and affective function may underlie some of the core symptoms of the illness.
FBXO32 links ubiquitination to epigenetic reprograming of melanoma cells
Authors: Habel Nadia , El-Hachem Najla , Soysouvanh Frédéric , Hadhiri-Bzioueche Hanene , Giuliano Serena , Nguyen Sophie , Horák Pavel , Gay Anne-Sophie , Debayle Delphine , Nottet Nicolas , Béranger Guillaume , Paillerets Brigitte Bressac-de , Bertolotto Corine , Ballotti Robert
Published: January 2021

Ubiquitination by serving as a major degradation signal of proteins, but also by controlling protein functioning and localization, plays critical roles in most key cellular processes. Here, we show that MITF, the master transcription factor in melanocytes, controls ubiquitination in melanoma cells. We identified FBXO32, a component of the SCF E3 ligase complex as a new MITF target gene. FBXO32 favors melanoma cell migration, proliferation, and tumor development in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis shows that FBXO32 knockdown induces a global change in melanoma gene expression profile. These include the inhibition of CDK6 in agreement with an inhibition of cell proliferation and invasion upon FBXO32 silencing. Furthermore, proteomic analysis identifies SMARC4, a component of the chromatin remodeling complexes BAF/PBAF, as a FBXO32 partner. FBXO32 and SMARCA4 co-localize at loci regulated by FBXO32, such as CDK6 suggesting that FBXO32 controls transcription through the regulation of chromatin remodeling complex activity. FBXO32 and SMARCA4 are the components of a molecular cascade, linking MITF to epigenetics, in melanoma cells.
Kdm2a deficiency in macrophages enhances thermogenesis to protect mice against HFD-induced obesity by enhancing H3K36me2 at the Pparg locus
Authors: Chen Longmin , Zhang Jing , Zou Yuan , Wang Faxi , Li Jingyi , Sun Fei , Luo Xi , Zhang Meng , Guo Yanchao , Yu Qilin , Yang Ping , Zhou Qing , Chen Zhishui , Zhang Huilan , Gong Quan , Zhao Jiajun , Eizirik Decio L. , Zhou Zhiguang , Xiong Fei , Zhang Shu , Wang Cong-Yi
Published: January 2021

Kdm2a catalyzes H3K36me2 demethylation to play an intriguing epigenetic regulatory role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Herein we found that myeloid-specific knockout of Kdm2a (LysM-Cre-Kdm2af/f, Kdm2a−/−) promoted macrophage M2 program by reprograming metabolic homeostasis through enhancing fatty acid uptake and lipolysis. Kdm2a−/− increased H3K36me2 levels at the Pparg locus along with augmented chromatin accessibility and Stat6 recruitment, which rendered macrophages with preferential M2 polarization. Therefore, the Kdm2a−/− mice were highly protected from high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis, and featured by the reduced accumulation of adipose tissue macrophages and repressed chronic inflammation following HFD challenge. Particularly, Kdm2a−/− macrophages provided a microenvironment in favor of thermogenesis. Upon HFD or cold challenge, the Kdm2a−/− mice manifested higher capacity for inducing adipose browning and beiging to promote energy expenditure. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the importance of Kdm2a-mediated H3K36 demethylation in orchestrating macrophage polarization, providing novel insight that targeting Kdm2a in macrophages could be a viable therapeutic approach against obesity and insulin resistance.
Generation of HIV-resistant cells with a single-domain antibody: implications for HIV-1 gene therapy
Authors: Jin Hongliang , Tang Xiaoran , Li Li , Chen Yue , Zhu Yuanmei , Chong Huihui , He Yuxian
Published: January 2021

The cure or functional cure of the “Berlin patient” and “London patient” indicates that infusion of HIV-resistant cells could be a viable treatment strategy. Very recently, we genetically linked a short-peptide fusion inhibitor with a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) attachment signal, rendering modified cells fully resistant to HIV infection. In this study, GPI-anchored m36.4, a single-domain antibody (nanobody) targeting the coreceptor-binding site of gp120, was constructed with a lentiviral vector. We verified that m36.4 was efficiently expressed on the plasma membrane of transduced TZM-bl cells and targeted lipid raft sites without affecting the expression of HIV receptors (CD4, CCR5, and CXCR4). Significantly, TZM-bl cells expressing GPI-m36.4 were highly resistant to infection with divergent HIV-1 subtypes and potently blocked HIV-1 envelope-mediated cell-cell fusion and cell-cell viral transmission. Furthermore, we showed that GPI-m36.4-modified human CEMss-CCR5 cells were nonpermissive to both CCR5- and CXCR4-tropic HIV-1 isolates and displayed a strong survival advantage over unmodified cells. It was found that GPI-m36.4 could also impair HIV-1 Env processing and viral infectivity in transduced cells, underlying a multifaceted mechanism of antiviral action. In conclusion, our studies characterize m36.4 as a powerful nanobody that can generate HIV-resistant cells, offering a novel gene therapy approach that can be used alone or in combination.
An eye-tracking study of letter-sound correspondence in Japanese-speaking 2- to 3-year-old toddlers
Authors: Higuchi Hiroki , Okumura Yuko , Kobayashi Tessei
Published: January 2021

Although the acquisition of letter-sound correspondences is a critical step in reading development, how and when children develop such correspondence remains relatively unexplored. In this study, we focused on Japanese hiragana letters to examine the implicit letter-sound correspondence using an eye-tracking technique for 80 Japanese-speaking toddlers. The results showed that 32- to 48-month-olds (but not 24- to 32-month-olds) directed their gaze at the target letter. An additional experiment on a letter-reading task showed that 32- to 40-month-olds could barely read the presented hiragana letters. These findings suggest that toddlers have already begun to grasp implicit letter-sound correspondences well before actually acquiring the ability to read letters.
Active auroral arc powered by accelerated electrons from very high altitudes
Authors: Imajo Shun , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Kazama Yoichi , Asamura Kazushi , Shinohara Iku , Shiokawa Kazuo , Kasahara Yoshiya , Kasaba Yasumasa , Matsuoka Ayako , Wang Shiang-Yu , Tam Sunny W. Y. , Chang Tzu‑Fang , Wang Bo‑Jhou , Angelopoulos Vassilis , Jun Chae-Woo , Shoji Masafumi , Nakamura Satoko , Kitahara Masahiro , Teramoto Mariko , Kurita Satoshi , Hori Tomoaki
Published: January 2021

Bright, discrete, thin auroral arcs are a typical form of auroras in nightside polar regions. Their light is produced by magnetospheric electrons, accelerated downward to obtain energies of several kilo electron volts by a quasi-static electric field. These electrons collide with and excite thermosphere atoms to higher energy states at altitude of ~ 100 km; relaxation from these states produces the auroral light. The electric potential accelerating the aurora-producing electrons has been reported to lie immediately above the ionosphere, at a few altitudes of thousand kilometres1. However, the highest altitude at which the precipitating electron is accelerated by the parallel potential drop is still unclear. Here, we show that active auroral arcs are powered by electrons accelerated at altitudes reaching greater than 30,000 km. We employ high-angular resolution electron observations achieved by the Arase satellite in the magnetosphere and optical observations of the aurora from a ground-based all-sky imager. Our observations of electron properties and dynamics resemble those of electron potential acceleration reported from low-altitude satellites except that the acceleration region is much higher than previously assumed. This shows that the dominant auroral acceleration region can extend far above a few thousand kilometres, well within the magnetospheric plasma proper, suggesting formation of the acceleration region by some unknown magnetospheric mechanisms.
Pleural cytokines MIF and MIP-3α as novel biomarkers for complicated parapneumonic effusions and empyema
Authors: Yang Chia-Yu , Kuo Yu-Hsuan , Chen Min , Wang Chih-Liang , Shih Li-Jane , Liu Yu-Ching , Hsueh Pei-Chun , Lai Yi-Hsuan , Chu Chi-Ming , Wu Chih-Ching , Wu Kuo-An
Published: January 2021

Patients with complicated parapneumonic effusion (CPPE)/empyema have high morbidity and mortality, particularly when adequate management is delayed. We aimed to investigate novel dysregulated cytokines that can be used as biomarkers for infectious pleural effusions, especially for CPPE/empyema. Expression of 40 cytokines in parapneumonic effusions (PPE) was screened in the discovery phase, involving 63 patients, using a multiplex immunobead-based assay. Six cytokines were subsequently validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). We then used ELISA to further evaluate the diagnostic values and cutoff values of these cytokines as potential biomarkers in an expanded group that included 200 patients with uncomplicated parapneumonic effusion (UPPE), CPPE, empyema, transudates, other exudates, and malignant pleural effusion (MPE). The pleural levels of four cytokines (MIF, MIP-3α, IL-1β, ENA-78) were highest and significantly increased in CPPE/empyema compared with those in other etiologies. According to receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the four cytokines (MIF, MIP-3α, IL-1β, and ENA-78) had areas under the curve (AUCs) greater than 0.710 for discriminating parapneumonic pleural effusion from noninfectious pleural effusions. In a comparison of nonpurulent CPPE with UPPE, logistic regression analysis revealed that pleural fluid MIF ≥ 12 ng/ml and MIP-3α ≥ 4.3 ng/ml had the best diagnostic value; MIF also displayed the highest odds ratio of 663 for nonpurulent CPPE, with 97.5% specificity, 94.44% sensitivity, and an AUC of 0.950. In conclusion, our results show that elevated MIF and MIP-3α may be used as novel biomarkers for PPE diagnosis, particularly in patients with CPPE/empyema; the findings indicate that dysregulated cytokine expression may provide clues about the pathogenesis of pleural infection.
Association of serotonin system-related genes with homicidal behavior and criminal aggression in a prison population of Pakistani Origin
Authors: Qadeer Muhammad Imran , Amar Ali , Huang Yung-Yu , Min Eli , Galfalvy Hanga , Hasnain Shahida , Mann J. John
Published: January 2021

The serotonin transporter (SLC6A4), 5-HT2A (HTR2A) and 5-HT2B (HTR2B) recepter genes, express proteins that are important regulators of serotonin reuptake and signaling, and thereby may contribute to the pathogenesis of aggressive criminal behavior. 370 sentenced murderers in Pakistani prisons and 359 men without any history of violence or criminal delinquency were genotyped for six candidate polymorphisms in SLC6A4, HTR2A and HTR2B genes. An association of higher expressing L/L and LA/LA variants of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism was observed with homicidal behavior (bi-allelic: OR = 1.29, p = 0.016, tri-allelic: OR = 1.32, p = 0.015) and in the murderer group only with response to verbal abuse (OR = 2.11, p = 0.015), but not with other measures of self-reported aggression. L/L and LA/LA genotypes of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism were associated with higher aggression scores on STAX1 scale of aggression compared to lower expressing genotypes (S/S, S/LG, LG/LG) in prison inmates. No associations were apparent for other serotonergic gene polymorphisms analyzed. Using the Braineac and GTEx databases, we demonstrated significant eQTL based functional effects for rs25531 in HTTLPR and other serotonergic polymorphisms analyzed in different brain regions and peripheral tissues. In conclusion, these findings implicate SLC6A4* HTTLPR as a major genetic determinant associated with criminal aggression. Future studies are needed to replicate this finding and establish the biologic intermediate phenotypes mediating this relationship.
The adsorptive behaviour of kaolinite to sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate and the structural variation of kaolinite
Authors: Ni Xiaoming , Zhao Zheng , Li Zhiheng , Li Quanzhong
Published: January 2021

Analysis of the adsorptive behaviour of kaolinite to sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS) at different concentrations can provides a basis for selecting the best concentration. The adsorptive capacity and adsorptive behaviour of kaolinite to SDBS at different concentrations were studied using ultraviolet spectrophotometer, pseudo-first-order adsorption kinetics model, and pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetics model. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM–EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to study the variation characteristics of surface structure, crystallinity indices, and main functional groups on kaolinite before, and after, adsorption. The results show that as the SDBS concentration increase, the adsorptive capacity of kaolinite to SDBS increase. The adsorption process can be accurately fitted by the pseudo-secondary adsorption kinetic model, which means the adsorptive behaviour was mainly chemical in origin. The adsorption of SDBS by kaolinite mainly occurs on the surface. The solidification, lamellar aggregation, and crystallinity index of kaolinite are more obvious after the adsorption of SDBS, but the interlayer spacing of kaolinite did not change to any significant. After the adsorption of SDBS, the intensity ratio of 1000–1008 cm−1 bands changed significantly, indicating the change of the chemical environment, and the adsorptive behaviour was chemical.
The importance of curve severity, type and instrumentation strategy in the surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: an in silico clinical trial on 64 cases
Authors: Galbusera Fabio , Cina Andrea , Panico Matteo , Bassani Tito
Published: January 2021

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine which is frequently corrected with the implantation of instrumentation with generally good or excellent clinical results; mechanical post-operative complications such as implant loosening and breakage are however relatively frequent. The rate of complications is associated with a lack of consensus about the surgical decision-making process; choices about the instrumentation length, the anchoring implants and the degree of correction are indeed mostly based on personal views and previous experience of the surgeon. In this work, we performed an in silico clinical trial on a large number of subjects in order to clarify which factors have the highest importance in determining the risk of complications by quantitatively analysing the mechanical stresses and loads in the instrumentation after the correction maneuvers. The results of the simulations highlighted the fundamental role of the curve severity, also in its three-dimensional aspect, and of the instrumentation strategy, whereas the length of the fixation had a lower importance.
A multiband circular polarization selective metasurface for microwave applications
Authors: Shah Syed Muhammad Qasim Ali , Shoaib Nosherwan , Ahmed Fahad , Alomainy Akram , Quddious Abdul , Nikolaou Symeon , Imran Muhammad Ali , Abbasi Qammer H.
Published: January 2021

In this research article, a multiband circular polarization selective (CPS) metasurface is presented. A reciprocal bi-layered metasurface is designed by introducing the chirality in the structure. The top layer of the proposed metasurface is composed of circular split-ring resonator with a cross shape structure inside it. The same structure is printed on the bottom side of the proposed metasurface by rotating it at an angle of 90° to achieve chirality in the structure. The proposed metasurface is able to add CPS surface capability between 5.18 and 5.23 GHz for y-polarized incident wave. For the frequency band of 5.18–5.23 GHz, the transmission goes up to − 4 dB, while the polarization extinction ratio (PER) reaches up to − 27.4 dB at 5.2 GHz. Similarly, for x-polarized incident wave, three strategic CPS operating bands are achieved within the frequency ranges of 10.64–10.82 GHz, 12.25–12.47 GHz, and 14.42–14.67 GHz. The maximum PER of 47.16 dB has been achieved for the 14.42–14.67 GHz frequency band at 14.53 GHz. Furthermore, the response of the metasurface does not vary against oblique incidences up to 45°. The simple structure, angular stability, multiband and miniaturized size make this metasurface an outstanding applicant for polarization conversion and biomedical applications.
Time-domain diffuse correlation spectroscopy (TD-DCS) for noninvasive, depth-dependent blood flow quantification in human tissue in vivo
Authors: Samaei Saeed , Sawosz Piotr , Kacprzak Michał , Pastuszak Żanna , Borycki Dawid , Liebert Adam
Published: January 2021

Monitoring of human tissue hemodynamics is invaluable in clinics as the proper blood flow regulates cellular-level metabolism. Time-domain diffuse correlation spectroscopy (TD-DCS) enables noninvasive blood flow measurements by analyzing temporal intensity fluctuations of the scattered light. With time-of-flight (TOF) resolution, TD-DCS should decompose the blood flow at different sample depths. For example, in the human head, it allows us to distinguish blood flows in the scalp, skull, or cortex. However, the tissues are typically polydisperse. So photons with a similar TOF can be scattered from structures that move at different speeds. Here, we introduce a novel approach that takes this problem into account and allows us to quantify the TOF-resolved blood flow of human tissue accurately. We apply this approach to monitor the blood flow index in the human forearm in vivo during the cuff occlusion challenge. We detect depth-dependent reactive hyperemia. Finally, we applied a controllable pressure to the human forehead in vivo to demonstrate that our approach can separate superficial from the deep blood flow. Our results can be beneficial for neuroimaging sensing applications that require short interoptode separation.
Anatomy of the Bezymianny volcano merely before an explosive eruption on 20.12.2017
Authors: Koulakov Ivan , Plechov Pavel , Mania René , Walter Thomas R. , Smirnov Sergey Z. , Abkadyrov Ilyas , Jakovlev Andrey , Davydova Vesta , Senyukov Sergey , Bushenkova Natalia , Novgorodova Angelika , Stupina Tatyana , Droznina Svetlana Ya.
Published: January 2021

Strong explosive eruptions of volcanoes throw out mixtures of gases and ash from high-pressure underground reservoirs. Investigating these subsurface reservoirs may help to forecast and characterize an eruption. In this study, we compare seismic tomography results with remote sensing and petrology data to identify deep and subaerial manifestations of pre-eruptive processes at Bezymianny volcano in Kamchatka shortly before its violent explosion on December 20, 2017. Based on camera networks we identify precursory rockfalls, and based on satellite radar data we find pre-eruptive summit inflation. Our seismic network recorded the P and S wave data from over 500 local earthquakes used to invert for a 3D seismic velocity distribution beneath Bezymianny illuminating its eruptive state days before the eruption. The derived tomography model, in conjunction with the presence of the high-temperature-stable SiO2 polymorph Tridymite in juvenile rock samples , allowed us to infer the coexistence of magma and gas reservoirs revealed as anomalies of low (1.5) and high (2.0) Vp/Vs ratios, respectively, located at depths of 2–3 km and only 2 km apart. The reservoirs both control the current eruptive activity: while the magma reservoir is responsible for episodic dome growth and lava flow emplacements, the spatially separated gas reservoir may control short but powerful explosive eruptions of Bezymianny.
Artificial neural network, predictor variables and sensitivity threshold for DNA methylation-based age prediction using blood samples
Authors: Thong Zhonghui , Tan Jolena Ying Ying , Loo Eileen Shuzhen , Phua Yu Wei , Chan Xavier Liang Shun , Syn Christopher Kiu-Choong
Published: January 2021

Regression models are often used to predict age of an individual based on methylation patterns. Artificial neural network (ANN) however was recently shown to be more accurate for age prediction. Additionally, the impact of ethnicity and sex on our previous regression model have not been studied. Furthermore, there is currently no age prediction study investigating the lower limit of input DNA at the bisulfite treatment stage prior to pyrosequencing. Herein, we evaluated both regression and ANN models, and the impact of ethnicity and sex on age prediction for 333 local blood samples using three loci on the pyrosequencing platform. Subsequently, we trained a one locus-based ANN model to reduce the amount of DNA used. We demonstrated that the ANN model has a higher accuracy of age prediction than the regression model. Additionally, we showed that ethnicity did not affect age prediction among local Chinese, Malays and Indians. Although the predicted age of males were marginally overestimated, sex did not impact the accuracy of age prediction. Lastly, we present a one locus, dual CpG model using 25 ng of input DNA that is sufficient for forensic age prediction. In conclusion, the two ANN models validated would be useful for age prediction to provide forensic intelligence leads.
Raman microscopy for skin evaluation
Authors: Egawa Mariko
Published: January 2021

The applications of Raman microscopies, such as spontaneous Raman scattering microscopy and coherent Raman scattering microscopy, used to evaluate skin and research trends are presented.
Aptamer-mediated rolling circle amplification for label-free and sensitive detection of histone acetyltransferase activity
Authors: Jiang Su , Liu Meng , Tantai Wei , Xu Qinfeng , Zou Xiaoran , Ma Fei , Zhang Chun-yang
Published: January 2021

An aptamer-mediated histone modification site-specific rolling circle amplification is developed for label-free detection of histone-modifying enzyme at the femtomolar level.
Hydroxyl-enriched highly crystalline TiO2 suspensible photocatalyst: facile synthesis and superior H2-generation activity
Authors: Gao Duoduo , Xu Jiachao , Yu Huogen , Liu Yongping , Yu Jiaguo
Published: January 2021

A facile ethanol-controlled strategy was reported to simultaneously realize the excellent suspendability and high-crystallinity of a hydroxyl-enriched TiO2 nanocrystal for efficient photocatalytic H2 generation.
Targeting RNA with small molecules: from fundamental principles towards the clinic
Authors: Falese James P. , Donlic Anita , Hargrove Amanda E.
Published: January 2021

This tutorial review describes the fundamental principles and recent advances in developing small molecule-based therapeutics for disease-associated RNAs.
Curvature-induced electronic tuning of molecular catalysts for CO2 reduction
Authors: Tian Pengfei , Zhang Bo , Chen Jiacheng , Zhang Jing , Huang Libei , Ye Ruquan , Bao Bo , Zhu Minghui
Published: January 2021

A curvature-induced electronic tuning strategy of molecular catalysts for CO2 reduction is proposed.
Origami paper-based sample preconcentration using sequentially driven ion concentration polarization
Authors: Lee Junwoo , Yoo Yong Kyoung , Lee Dohwan , Kim Cheonjung , Kim Kang Hyeon , Lee Seungmin , Kwak Seungmin , Kang Ji Yoon , Kim Hyungsuk , Yoon Dae Sung , Hur Don , Lee Jeong Hoon
Published: January 2021

To overcome the hurdles of the ICP-based preconcentrator (i.e., instability and low efficiency) under physiological conditions, we proposed a novel approach by using a sequentially driven ICP process, showing a 13-fold preconcentration factor (PF) in human serum.
Near infrared-sensitive smart windows from Au nanorod–polymer hybrid photonic hydrogels
Authors: Xiao Xin , Shi Dongjian , Yang Zhaokun , Yu Qiuyan , Kaneko Daisaku , Chen Mingqing
Published: January 2021

We developed a hybrid photonic hydrogel consisting of Au NRs, the P(NIPAm-co-AAm) hydrogel, and a photonic crystal and fabricated a NIR-sensitive smart window.
Cellulose nanocrystal assisted trace silver nitrate to synthesize green silver nanocomposites with antibacterial activity
Authors: Zhu Jiang , Tang Tao , Hu Chun-Yan , Xiang Wen-Cai , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Luo Liu , Yang He-Shan , Liu Hong-Pan
Published: January 2021

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used for applications ranging from chemical catalysis to environmental remediation, and generation of smart electronics and biological medicine such as antibacterial agents.
External electric field effects on the σ-hole and lone-pair hole interactions of group V elements: a comparative investigation
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A. , Saad Sherif M. A. , Al-Fahemi Jabir H. , Mekhemer Gamal A. H. , Ahmed Saleh A. , Shawky Ahmed M. , Moussa Nayra A. M.
Published: January 2021

σ-hole and lone-pair (lp) hole interactions of trivalent pnicogen-bearing compounds were comparatively investigated under field-free and external electric field (EEF) conditions.
Confined sub-nanometer PtCo clusters as a highly efficient and robust electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Guo Fei , Zou Zhijin , Zhang Zeyi , Zeng Tang , Tan Yangyang , Chen Runzhe , Wu Wei , Cheng Niancai , Sun Xueliang
Published: January 2021

Sub-nanometer PtCo clusters can significantly enhance Pt catalytic kinetics and activity for the HER.
A high-performance visible-light-driven all-optical switch enabled by ultra-thin gallium sulfide
Authors: Xu Kai , Zhang Bao Yue , Hu Yihong , Khan Muhammad Waqas , Ou Rui , Ma Qijie , Shangguan Chunmei , Murdoch Billy J. , Chen Weijian , Wen Xiaoming , Ren Guanghui , Ou Jian Zhen
Published: January 2021

A 2D Ga2S3enabled all-optical switch is realized upon a silicon-based on-chip platform. With the unique optical properties of the 2D nanoflakes, the device exhibits excellent switching behaviors driven by visible light at a low power density.
Fluorescence ‘off–on–off’ signaling with zinc ensemble: a new array of investigating prevalence of ATP in liver cancer cells
Authors: Kundu Shampa , Islam Md Majharul , Mandal Sukhendu , Sahoo Prithidipa
Published: January 2021

2-Hydroxy naphthaldehyde–picolylamine conjugate (NPAC) ensemble with Zn2+ (NPAC–Zn2+) has been synthesized for the selective recognition and estimation of ATP in human liver cancer cells.
The roles of fused-ring organic semiconductor treatment on SnO2 in enhancing perovskite solar cell performance
Authors: Ren Lu , Liang Lusheng , Zhang Zhuangzhuang , Zhang Zilong , Xiong Qiu , Zhao Nan , Yu Yaming , Scopelliti Rosario , Gao Peng
Published: January 2021

A series of n-type FROSs called IDT-T, IDT-I, and IDDT-T were used to passivate the interface between the perovskite layer and SnO2 layer in PSCs, leading to reduced interfacial loss in hopes of enhancing the performance of PSCs.
Correction: Enhanced 1.54 μm luminescence of a perfluorinated erbium complex sensitized by perfluorinated Pt(ii) and Zn(ii) phthalocyanines with 980 nm emission
Authors: Li Hongfei , Liu Xiaoqi , Lyu Chen , Ma Feng , Ye Huanqing , Wyatt Peter. B. , Gillin William P.
Published: January 2021

Correction for ‘Enhanced 1.54 μm luminescence of a perfluorinated erbium complex sensitized by perfluorinated Pt(ii) and Zn(ii) phthalocyanines with 980 nm emission’ by Hongfei Li et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021, DOI: 10.1039/d0tc05301e.
Mechanical model of a boundary layer for the parallel tracks of kilohertz quasi-periodic oscillations in accreting neutron stars
Authors: Abolmasov Pavel , Poutanen Juri
Published: January 2021

Kilohertz-scale quasi-periodic oscillations (kHz QPOs) are a distinct feature of the variability of neutron star low-mass X-ray binaries. Among all the variability modes, they are especially interesting as a probe for the innermost parts of the accretion flow, including the accretion boundary layer (BL) on the surface of the neutron star. All the existing models of kHz QPOs explain only part of their rich phenomenology. Here, we show that some of their properties can be explained by a very simple model of the BL that is spun up by accreting rapidly rotating matter from the disk and spun down by the interaction with the neutron star. In particular, if the characteristic time scales for the mass and the angular momentum transfer from the BL to the star are of the same order of magnitude, our model naturally reproduces the so-called parallel tracks effect, where the QPO frequency is correlated with luminosity at time scales of hours but becomes uncorrelated at time scales of days. The closeness of the two time scales responsible for mass and angular momentum exchange between the BL and the star is an expected outcome of the radial structure of the BL.
Cotton in West and Central Africa: from the agricultural revolution to the agro-ecological transition
Authors: Soumaré Mamy , Havard Michel , Bachelier Bruno
Published: January 2021

Since the 1970s, cotton has been a driving force in the transformation of agricultural production systems and a key element in local economies in the savannah areas of West and Central Africa (WCA). However, the sustainability of cotton-based production systems is often debated because of their effects on soils and the negative impacts of chemical pest control on the environment and human health. Through drastic reforms, the WCA cotton sector overcame the crises, showing its resilience. Today, research should be mobilized to help the sector tackle the major challenges: i) economic (price volatility, producers’ incomes), ii) social (inclusion of vulnerable groups, role of women and young people, etc.) and iii) environmental (impact of pesticides, soil degradation, etc.) and linked to climate change. The articles published in this issue present some results and perspectives of research work, which can help improving the sustainability of cotton systems in WCA, open paths towards an agro-ecological transition and address the new challenges.
Corrosion resistance of steel for coiled tubing units
Authors: Syrotyuk Andriy , Vytyaz Oleg , Leshchak Rostyslav , Ziaja Jan
Published: January 2021

The gravimetric method was used to determine the corrosion rate of a pipe for coiled tubing. Scanning electron and optical microscopy were used to study the microstructure and to determine the nature of corrosion damages. It has been found that corrosion processes of different nature occurred in the studied systems “metal – environment”, in particular, in acid solutions, corrosion was caused by the of hydrochloric acid and the ambient temperature of 70°С. In solution with a smaller acid content, along with the general corrosion, there is a significant localization of the corrosion process (deep corrosion damage is formed: macro pitting and corrosion ulcers). The general corrosion was observed in the HCl solution (13 mass %), which destroys the pipe walls after 576 h of exposure. The neutral solutions caused the general corrosion of smaller intensity in comparison with the acidic environments, even taking into account the temperature factor. The surface-active substances or petroleum products that are present in the solutions, form barrier films on the steel surface, which prevent the access of corrosive components from the environment to the surface of the material, especially during the short exposure time. With the increase of the exposure at the elevated temperatures, the barrier films break down and the steel surface undergoes the general corrosion.
Prevalence of COVID-19 Among Children and Adolescents While Easing Lockdown Restrictions in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Authors: Körner Robert Walter , Weber Lutz Thorsten
Published: January 2021

Background In Germany, widespread full closures of schools and day care facilities were part of lockdown measures to control the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In the state of North Rhine-Westphalia closures took place on March 16, 2020 and were gradually eased from end of April 2020 until beginning of June 2020.

Objective This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of COVID-19 among children and adolescents during the reopening period of schools and day care facilities in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It further depicts medical history and results of physical examinations of pediatric patients undergoing a test for severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods Testing for SARS-CoV-2 was carried out by a naso- and / or oropharyngeal swab by local pediatricians at the time of presentation. Samples were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Medical history and physical examination results were retrospectively analyzed.

Results 525 children and adolescents presented mainly with mild upper respiratory tract infections. Three patients were diagnosed with COVID-19. Their medical history and examination results did not stand out from the other patients.

Conclusion A precautious stepwise opening of schools and day care facilities was not associated with the occurrence of a relevant prevalence of COVID-19 among children and adolescents. However, a low general prevalence of COVID-19 at the end of the observation period has to be taken into account. Systematic testing might enable adjusted regulations in favor of full closures, especially in the light of increasing evidence for pediatric patients constituting a low-risk group for COVID-19.
Oxidative Desymmetrization of Isoindolines Realized by tert-Butyl Nitrite (TBN) Initiated Radical sp3 C–H Activation Relay (CHAR)
Authors: Yuan Yu , Jia Xiaodong , Sun Zheng , Shao Yu , Zhang Shuwei , Zhang Yuxian
Published: January 2021

An oxidative desymmetrization of isoindolines was realized by TBN initiated radical sp3 C–H activation relay (CHAR), providing a series of ω-hydroxylactams in high yields. This reaction exhibits broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance, and even N-alkyl iso­indolines can be well tolerated. The mechanistic study shows that the C–H bond oxidation, dioxygen trapping and intramolecular 1,5-H shift might be the key steps to achieve the oxidative desymmetrization.
Variation in nocturnal stomatal conductance and development of predawn disequilibrium between soil and leaf water potentials in nine temperate deciduous tree species
Authors: Kangur Ott , Steppe Kathy , Schreel Jeroen D. M. , von der Crone Jonas S. , Sellin Arne
Published: January 2021

It is widely acknowledged that many plant species can keep stomata open during night. We examined how nocturnal stomatal conductance differs among potted saplings of nine temperate tree species from diverse native habitats in wet and dry soil conditions, and how it affects plant predawn water status. Nocturnal stomatal conductance in dry soil conditions was low in all the species (with a maximum value of 14.6 mmol m–2 s–1); in wet conditions, it was the highest in Populus tremula L., a fast-growing and anisohydric pioneer species, and the lowest in Quercus robur L., a late-successional and isohydric species. Relatively high nocturnal stomatal conductance in wet conditions in P. tremula compared with the other species resulted in the highest difference in water potential values between the leaves and soil at predawn. As drought progressed, different species tended to keep stomata almost closed at night, and the observed differences between anisohydric and isohydric species disappeared. At an ample soil water supply, nocturnal stomatal behaviour was species dependent and varied according to both the water-use and the life strategies of the species. Keeping that in mind, one should therefore be careful when using predawn leaf water potential as a proxy for soil water potential, sampling different species.
On the design of the URL
Authors: Pemberton Steven
Published: January 2021

Notations can affect the way we think, and how we operate;
consider as a simple example the difference between Roman Numerals
and Arabic Numerals: Arabic Numerals allow us not only to more
easily represent numbers, but also simplify calculations and the
manipulation of numbers.

One of the innovations of the World Wide Web was the URL. In the
last 30 years URLs have become a ubiquitous element of everyday
life, so present that we scarcely even grant them a second thought.
And yet they are a designed artefact: there is nothing natural about
their structure – each part is there as part of a design.

This paper looks at the design issues behind the URL, what a URL
is meant to represent, how it relates to the resources it
identifies, and its relationship with representational state
transfer (REST) and the protocols that REST is predicated on. We
consider, with hindsight, to what extent the design could have been
improved.
KF-Swoosh: An Efficient Spark-Based Entity Resolution Algorithm for BigData
Authors: Alami L. , Aassem Y. , Hafidi I.
Published: January 2021

Entity matching (EM), which is, the task of identifying records that refer to the same entity, is a critical task when constructing data warehouses. This task is often very expensive at the running time because data must be compared in pairs. This problem becomes more important when dealing with large-scale data. We propose a new parallel algorithm that divides the data using K-Medoid algorithm implemented with Spark framework. The computational experiments are done and show that we can improve the solution of a set of instances in a reduced execution time.
The Classification of the Environmental Indicators using ELECTRE TRI Method for Loukkos Basin in Morocco
Authors: Aziz Layla , Achki Samira , Chalh Ridouane.
Published: January 2021

Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) has found many applications in both technical and research sectors. MCA is a way to break the problem into more practicable elements, to permit data and decisions to be judgements to support the elements, and make the right decision. The aim of this paper is to analyze, compare, and make decisions of various current, and future scenarios of different quantifiable indicators for different considerations and various socio-economic aspects. Furthermore, this analysis is used to improve or at least to preserve the environment and natural resources in the basin. In this study an application by a real data set is made, these data are evaluated and extracted from classified satellite images of Loukkos basin, the classification of this satellite images regroups several classes of the data set such as agglomeration, dams, watercourses, croplands, bare soils and forests … etc. In reality, these data come from different sources like watershed information system (drinking water supply, irrigation system), transportation infrastructures (roads, dams), natural resources (Water, soils, and vegetation), human activities (agriculture, urbanization, and industry) and different socio-economic factors (demography). The main objective of this work is sorting the environmental indicators using the ELECTRE TRI tool, where ten alternatives are considered. We focus the classification of the real data set into the altitude, and the combined surface area factors. The obtained results prove that the classification is stable and the multi-criteria approach ELECTRE-TRI is suitable to a better sorting of the environmental indicators for the Loukkos Basin located in Morocco.