bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LINC00473 downregulation facilitates trophoblast cell migration and invasion via the miR‐15a‐5p/LITAF axis in pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Chi Zhenjing , Gao Qiong , Sun Yanlan , Zhou Fenmei , Wang Hairong , Shu Xiaoming , Zhang Muling
Published: April 2021

More and more evidence has identified that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in various biological process of numerous diseases. It has been reported that long intergenic non‐protein coding RNA 473 (LINC00473) was associated with pre‐eclampsia (PE) development. However, role and molecular mechanism of LINC00473 in PE remains elusive. Therefore, we designed this research to figure out the specific biological function of LINC00473 in trophoblasts. Firstly, we testified expressions of LINC00473 in trophoblasts of PE with RT‐qPCR analysis. Then, to probe biological function of LINC00473 in trophoblasts of PE, CCK‐8 assay, trans‐well assays and western blot analysis were conducted in Wish and JAR cells. As for verifying interaction of microRNA‐15a‐5p (miR‐15a‐5p) and LINC00473 or lipopolysaccharide induced TNF factor (LITAF), RNA pull‐down and luciferase reporter assays were carried out. Finally, rescue experiments were conducted to probe regulatory pattern of the LINC00473/miR‐15a‐5p/LITAF axis in trophoblasts of PE. As a result, LINC00473 presented a significant upregulation in trophoblasts of PE. Moreover, LINC00473 knockdown induced trophoblast viability, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in trophoblasts. Additionally, miR‐15a‐5p interacted with LINC00473 and miR‐15a‐5p was negatively regulated by LINC00473 in trophoblasts. Simultaneously, miR‐15a‐5p negatively modulated LITAF in trophoblasts. Moreover, LITAF overexpression or miR‐15a‐5p downregulation reversed the promotive impact of silenced LINC00473 on trophoblast viability, migration, invasion and EMT. In conclusion, LINC00473 regulated migration and invasion in trophoblasts via the miR‐15a‐5p/LITAF axis. Our study may provide a novel insight for clinical treatment of PE.
How to Organize a Classroom Library to Support Inquiry: 4 Systems that Work
Authors: Hawkins Lisa K.
Published: April 2021

In this Teaching Tips article four time‐saving systems to organize an elementary classroom library for successful inquiry instruction are shared. These systems include: Topic, Genre, Author, and Craft. Examples to assist teachers in organizing their own classroom libraries using one or more of these systems are also provided.
The optimal decay rates of classical solutions to the 3D compressible Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Xu Fuyi , Chi Meiling , Jiang Jiqiang , Cui Yujun
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we revisit the optimal time decay rates of classical solutions to the 3D compressible Navier‐Stokes equations. Based on a global priori estimate, the optimal time decay rates of the solution and its first order derivative in L2‐norm are obtained if ‐norm of the initial perturbation around a constant state is small enough and is bounded for . Compared with the previous works by Hai‐Liang Li and Ting Zhang (Math Meth Appl Sci 34:670‐682, 2011), we remove the smallness of and our condition involves only the low frequencies of the data in .
Towards the Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude in AdS5×S5
Authors: Abl Theresa , Heslop Paul , Lipstein Arthur E.
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We propose a systematic procedure for obtaining all single trace 1/2-BPS correlators in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super Yang-Mills corresponding to the four-point tree-level amplitude for type IIB string theory in AdS5 × S5. The underlying idea is to compute generalised contact Witten diagrams coming from a 10d effective field theory on AdS5 × S5 whose coefficients are fixed by the flat space Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude up to ambiguities related to commutators of the 10d covariant derivatives which require additional information such as localisation. We illustrate this procedure by computing stringy corrections to the supergravity prediction for all single trace 1/2-BPS correlators up to $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(α′7), and spell out a general algorithm for extending this to any order in α′.
Universal entropy and hawking radiation of near-extremal AdS4 black holes
Authors: David Marina , Nian Jun
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We compute the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy of near-extremal asymptotically AdS4 electrically charged rotating black holes using three different methods: (i) from the gravity solution, (ii) from the near-horizon Kerr/CFT correspondence and (iii) from the boundary conformal field theory. The results from these three different approaches match exactly, giving us a unique and universal expression for the entropy and the microstate counting of near-extremal AdS black holes via the AdS/CFT correspondence. In the second method, we extend the Kerr/CFT correspondence to the near-extremal case to compute the left and right central charges. We also use hidden conformal symmetry of the near-horizon geometry to compute the Frolov-Thorne temperatures. From the results of the near-extremal AdS4 black hole entropy, we provide a microscopic foundation for Hawking radiation.
Modeling Rasmussen’s dynamic modeling problem: drift towards a boundary of safety
Authors: Morrison J. Bradley , Wears Robert L.
Published: April 2021

We build a system dynamics model based on a conceptual model originally proposed by safety scientist Jens Rasmussen to explore the dynamics of a safety system subject to pressures for performance improvement. Rasmussen described forces that generate a drift in the boundary of acceptable performance that can push the organization towards “flirting with the margin” and thus operate at very high risk of catastrophic safety failure. Simulations of the model faithfully replicate the behavior described by Rasmussen and others in a variety of scenarios. Simulation experiments further illuminate the potential for risky behavior and point towards some approaches to better system safety.
The value of local community knowledge in species distribution modelling for a threatened Neotropical parrot
Authors: Biddle Rebecca , Solis-Ponce Ivette , Jones Martin , Marsden Stuart , Pilgrim Mark , Devenish Christian
Published: April 2021

Species distribution models are widely used in conservation planning, but obtaining the necessary occurrence data can be challenging, particularly for rare species. In these cases, citizen science may provide insight into species distributions. To understand the distribution of the newly described and Critically EndangeredAmazona lilacina,we collated species observations and reliable eBird records from 2010–2020. We combined these with environmental predictors and either randomly generated background points or absence points generated from eBird checklists, to build distribution models using MaxEnt. We also conducted interviews with people local to the species’ range to gather community-sourced occurrence data. We grouped these data according to perceived expertise of the observer, based on the ability to identifyA. lilacinaand its distinguishing features, knowledge of its ecology, overall awareness of parrot biodiversity, and the observation type. We evaluated all models using AUC and Tjur R2. Field data models built using background points performed better than those using eBird absence points (AUC = 0.80 ± 0.02, Tjur R2 = 0.46 ± 0.01 compared to AUC = 0.78 ± 0.03, Tjur R2 = 0.43 ± 0.21). The best performing community data model used presence records from people who were able recognise a photograph ofA. lilacinaand correctly describe its distinguishing physical or behavioural characteristics (AUC = 0.84 ± 0.05, Tjur R2 = 0.51± 0.01). There was up to 92% overlap between the field data and community data models, which when combined, predicted 17,772 km2of suitable habitat. Use of community knowledge offers a cost-efficient method to obtain data for species distribution modelling; we offer recommendations on how to assess its performance and present a final map of potential distribution forA. lilacina.
Thermal Submeso Motions in the Nocturnal Stable Boundary Layer. Part 2: Generating Mechanisms and Implications
Authors: Pfister Lena , Lapo Karl , Mahrt Larry , Thomas Christoph K.
Published: April 2021

In the stable boundary layer, thermal submesofronts (TSFs) are detected during the Shallow Cold Pool experiment in the Colorado plains, Colorado, USA in 2012. The topography induces TSFs by forming two different air layers converging on the valley-side wall while being stacked vertically above the valley bottom. The warm-air layer is mechanically generated by lee turbulence that consistently elevates near-surface temperatures, while the cold-air layer is thermodynamically driven by radiative cooling and the corresponding cold-air drainage decreases near-surface temperatures. The semi-stationary TSFs can only be detected, tracked, and investigated in detail when using fibre-optic distributed sensing (FODS), as point observations miss TSFs most of the time. Neither the occurrence of TSFs nor the characteristics of each air layer are connected to a specific wind or thermal regime. However, each air layer is characterized by a specific relationship between the wind speed and the friction velocity. Accordingly, a single threshold separating different flow regimes within the boundary layer is an oversimplification, especially during the occurrence of TSFs. No local forcings or their combination could predict the occurrence of TSFs except that they are less likely to occur during stronger near-surface or synoptic-scale flow. While classical conceptualizations and techniques of the boundary layer fail in describing the formation of TSFs, the use of spatially continuous data obtained from FODS provide new insights. Future studies need to incorporate spatially continuous data in the horizontal and vertical planes, in addition to classic sensor networks of sonic anemometry and thermohygrometers to fully characterize and describe boundary-layer phenomena.
Simultaneous Ruin Probability for Two-Dimensional Fractional Brownian Motion Risk Process over Discrete Grid
Authors: Jasnovidov Grigori
Published: April 2021

We derive the asymptotic behavior of the following ruin probability:$$ \mathrm{P}\left\{\exists t\in G\left(\delta \right):{B}_H(t)-{c}_1t>{q}_1u,{B}_H(t)-{c}_2t>{q}_2u\right\},\kern0.72em H\in \left(0,1\right),u\to \infty, $$
P

∃
t
∈
G

δ

:

B
H

t

−

c
1

t
>

q
1

u

B
H

t

−

c
2

t
>

q
2

u

,

H
∈

0
1

,
u
→
∞
,

where BH is a standard fractional Brownian motion, c1, q1, c2, q2> 0, and G(δ) denotes the regular grid {0, δ, 2δ, . . . } for some δ > 0. The approximation depends on H, δ (only when H ≤ 1/2) and the relations between parameters c1, q1, c2, q2.
Reachable sets of classifiers and regression models: (non-)robustness analysis and robust training
Authors: Kopetzki Anna-Kathrin , Günnemann Stephan
Published: April 2021

Neural networks achieve outstanding accuracy in classification and regression tasks. However, understanding their behavior still remains an open challenge that requires questions to be addressed on the robustness, explainability and reliability of predictions. We answer these questions by computing reachable sets of neural networks, i.e. sets of outputs resulting from continuous sets of inputs. We provide two efficient approaches that lead to over- and under-approximations of the reachable set. This principle is highly versatile, as we show. First, we use it to analyze and enhance the robustness properties of both classifiers and regression models. This is in contrast to existing works, which are mainly focused on classification. Specifically, we verify (non-)robustness, propose a robust training procedure, and show that our approach outperforms adversarial attacks as well as state-of-the-art methods of verifying classifiers for non-norm bound perturbations. Second, we provide techniques to distinguish between reliable and non-reliable predictions for unlabeled inputs, to quantify the influence of each feature on a prediction, and compute a feature ranking.
Topicality and anaphoricity in Dutch scrambling
Authors: Schoenmakers Gert-Jan , Poortvliet Marjolein , Schaeffer Jeannette
Published: April 2021

Direct objects in Dutch can precede or follow adverbs, a phenomenon commonly referred to asscrambling. The linguistic literature agrees in its assumption that scrambling is regulated by the topicality and anaphoricity status of definite objects, but theories vary as to what kinds of objects exactly are predicted to scramble. This study reports experimental data from a sentence completion experiment with adult native speakers of Dutch, showing that topics are scrambled more often than foci, and that anaphoric objects are scrambled more often than non-anaphoric objects. However, while the data provide support for the assumption that topicality and anaphoricity play an important role in scrambling, they also indicate that the discourse status of the object in and of itself cannot explain the full scrambling variation.
Due Diligence in International Environmental Law and International Human Rights Law: A Comparative Legal Study of the Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement and Positive Obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights
Authors: Malaihollo Medes
Published: April 2021

Due diligence is a frequently employed notion in international law, yet much is still to be explored about this concept. This article aims to contribute to an understanding of due diligence obligations in international law, which is useful as it can form the basis for a further clarification of corresponding legal rights of subjects of international law. With this purpose in mind, this article initiates the construction of a working model of due diligence in international law by exploring this notion from two perspectives: an accountability perspective and a regulatory perspective. Subsequently, this article will use this model to compare the operation of due diligence obligations in two branches of international law: international environmental law and international human rights law. In doing so, it will become clear that due diligence contains two core elements: ‘reasonableness’ and ‘good faith’. Moreover, it will become apparent that the operation of due diligence obligations in these two branches has implications for systemic issues in international law. Further research on the operation of due diligence obligations in other branches of international law is therefore recommended.
Mask-aware photorealistic facial attribute manipulation
Authors: Sun Ruoqi , Huang Chen , Zhu Hengliang , Ma Lizhuang
Published: April 2021

The technique of facial attribute manipulation has found increasing application, but it remains challenging to restrict editing of attributes so that a face’s unique details are preserved. In this paper, we introduce our method, which we call a mask-adversarial autoencoder (M-AAE). It combines a variational autoencoder (VAE) and a generative adversarial network (GAN) for photorealistic image generation. We use partial dilated layers to modify a few pixels in the feature maps of an encoder, changing the attribute strength continuously without hindering global information. Our training objectives for the VAE and GAN are reinforced by supervision of face recognition loss and cycle consistency loss, to faithfully preserve facial details. Moreover, we generate facial masks to enforce background consistency, which allows our training to focus on the foreground face rather than the background. Experimental results demonstrate that our method can generate high-quality images with varying attributes, and outperforms existing methods in detail preservation.
“Fantasy Upon Fantasy”: Some Reflections on Dworkin’s Philosophy of International Law
Authors: Tasioulas John
Published: April 2021

This article offers a critique of Ronald Dworkin’s article “A New Philosophy for International Law”, (Philos Public Aff 41: 1–30, 2013). It begins by showing that Dworkin’s moralised theory of law is built on two highly questionable background assumptions. On the one hand, a descriptively implausible characterisation of a positivist-voluntarist view of international law as the reigning “orthodoxy”. On the other hand, the methodologically questionable assumption that a theory of international law must discharge the dual function of explaining the validity of international law in a manner that underwrites its presumptive legitimacy. In its core part, the article then offers a sustained criticism of Dworkin’s moralised account of the validity and legitimacy of international law. Various problems are identified with the “principle of salience” that Dworkin offers in place of consent as a ground for international law. A key concern is the difficulties that stem from Dworkin’s willingness to proceed on the “fantasy” assumption that his theory needs to get off the ground, i.e. that there is an international court with compulsory jurisdiction and reliable mechanisms for enforcing its judgements. Finally, the article concludes with some thoughts on how Dworkin’s “fantasy-based” approach led him to over-estimate the degree to which international law can be a vehicle for the global spread of liberal democratic values. More minimalist ambitions for international legal order, along the lines suggested by John Rawls inThe Law of Peoples, seem more realistic.
War Deaths Can Increase Support for Incumbents
Authors: Loewen Peter John , Rubenson Daniel
Published: April 2021

War comes with terrible costs both in terms of money and lives. Do voters punish incumbents for these costs? Much of the existing literature on the effects of war deaths on public opinion toward incumbents and their war efforts suggests that the answer is yes. We test this proposition on data from a non-US case: Canada's war in Afghanistan. We estimate models of the effect of local war deaths on incumbent support using individual-level panel data from the 2006, 2008 and 2011 Canadian Election Studies and aggregate district-level data from the 2008 and 2011 general elections. In none of our models do we find support for the conclusion that war deaths decrease support for candidates of the governing party. Instead, we find evidence at both the individual and district levels that support for Conservative party candidates is higher in districts that experienced war deaths.
Opium, Experimentation, and Alterity in France
Authors: Spary E. C.
Published: April 2021

The effects and dangers of opium were subject to intense scientific scrutiny and experimentation in Paris in the decades around 1700, as rival networks of healers contended for commercial advantage over the compound drugs that contained it. Opium, widely consumed in the Ottoman empire, became a subject of European scientific interest in an attempt to render it safe, agreeable, and beneficial for European bodies. Apothecaries sought to resurrect an ancient drug and infuse it with new life in the laboratory; physicians conducted chemical experiments upon it. Yet it was hard to reach agreement as to opium's harmful or beneficial effects; some aspects of its nature proved impossible to ‘domesticate’ in the same way as other exotic drugs like coffee or tea, or even cinchona. I argue that only by investigating the discrete networks which sold and experimented upon opium can the historian account for the ways in which this drug generated social, political, and financial capital for experimenters as it circulated throughout society.
Four Conceptions of Authority in International Relations
Authors: Kustermans Jorg , Horemans Rikkert
Published: April 2021

There is increasing agreement that states and other political actors on the world stage sometimes achieve international authority. However, there is less agreement about the nature and functioning of international authority relations. What determines whether an actor will be recognized as an authoritative actor? And what are the effects thereof? In this essay, we identify four distinct conceptions of authority in the study of international relations:authority as contract,authority as domination,authority as impression, andauthority as consecration. Consideration of the typology leads to two important insights. First, the phenomenon of authority has an essentially experiential dimension. Subordinate actors’ emotional experience of authority determines their response to authority and thus also has a fundamental impact on the stability of authority. Second, the emergence of forms of international authority does not entail, at least not necessarily, the weakening of the sovereignty of states, but can equally be argued to strengthen it.
CME-Sonografie 97/Antworten: Sonopathologie der Hüfte
Authors: Tamborrini Giorgio , Bianchi Stefano
Published: April 2021

Zusammenfassung. Zusammenfassung: Hüftschmerzen haben eine breite Differentialdiagnose. Eine klinische Untersuchung reicht nicht, um die zugrundeliegende Ursache festzustellen. Die Sonografie hilft in den meisten Fällen, die Differentialdiagnose einzugrenzen, beziehungsweise eine spezifische Diagnose zu stellen. Im Weiteren erlaubt der Ultraschall eine gezielte und anatomisch präzise diagnostische Punktion oder therapeutische Infiltration. Anhand von Beispielen werden unterschiedliche Pathologien nach Region illustriert.
Mechanical Weakness of the Nankai Accretionary Prism: Insights From Vp Measurements of Drill Cuttings
Authors: Kitamura M. , Hirose T. , Lei X.
Published: April 2021

The relationship between P‐wave velocity (Vp) and unconfined compressive strength (C0) can be used to estimate in situ rock strength and stresses at depth in subduction zones. However, few reliable data on the Vp‐C0 relationship in deep accretionary prism sediments are available. Here, we determined the Vp‐C0 relationship down to ∼3.2 km in the Nankai accretionary prism from Vp measurements and indentation tests of drill cuttings retrieved from International Ocean Discovery Program Site C0002. In our results, the Nankai accretionary prism sediments tended to be weaker compared with estimates obtained by using other empirically determined Vp‐C0 relationships. We also examined the relationship between Vp and porosity in the accretionary prism. The Vp‐porosity relationship obtained by using only data of Nankai accretionary prism sediments showed that Vp generally increased with decreasing porosity; this result is consistent with published Vp‐porosity relationships for Nankai Trough sediments. The empirical relationships derived in this study should improve estimates of stress state, pore pressure, and fault strength in the Nankai accretionary prism.
A Massive Methane Reservoir Is Lurking Beneath the Sea
Authors: Szakal Fanni
Published: April 2021

Scientists have found a methane reservoir below the permafrost seabed of the Laptev Sea—a reservoir that could suddenly release large amounts of the potent greenhouse gas.
Targeting obesity-related dysfunction in hormonally driven cancers
Authors: Rubinstein Maria M. , Brown Kristy A. , Iyengar Neil M.
Published: April 2021

Obesity is a risk factor for at least 13 different types of cancer, many of which are hormonally driven, and is associated with increased cancer incidence and morbidity. Adult obesity rates are steadily increasing and a subsequent increase in cancer burden is anticipated. Obesity-related dysfunction can contribute to cancer pathogenesis and treatment resistance through various mechanisms, including those mediated by insulin, leptin, adipokine, and aromatase signalling pathways, particularly in women. Furthermore, adiposity-related changes can influence tumour vascularity and inflammation in the tumour microenvironment, which can support tumour development and growth. Trials investigating non-pharmacological approaches to target the mechanisms driving obesity-mediated cancer pathogenesis are emerging and are necessary to better appreciate the interplay between malignancy, adiposity, diet and exercise. Diet, exercise and bariatric surgery are potential strategies to reverse the cancer-promoting effects of obesity; trials of these interventions should be conducted in a scientifically rigorous manner with dose escalation and appropriate selection of tumour phenotypes and have cancer-related clinical and mechanistic endpoints. We are only beginning to understand the mechanisms by which obesity effects cell signalling and systemic factors that contribute to oncogenesis. As the rates of obesity and cancer increase, we must promote the development of non-pharmacological lifestyle trials for the treatment and prevention of malignancy.
Associations between maternal obesity and infectious morbidity in Zimbabwean infants
Authors: Althaus Thomas , Chasekwa Bernard , Robertson Ruairi C. , Ntozini Robert , Greenland Katie , Humphrey Jean H. , Prendergast Andrew J.
Published: April 2021

The prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing among reproductive-age women in sub-Saharan Africa. Whether maternal body mass index (BMI) influences the risk of infant infections in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) is uncertain. We used data from a birth cohort of 5344 HIV-unexposed Zimbabwean infants with available data on maternal BMI, to calculate rates of sick clinic visits for infections during the first 12 months postpartum, and adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) for each maternal BMI group. Compared to infants of mothers with normal BMI, the rate of sick clinic visits for any infection progressively rose among infants of overweight (aHR 1.05; 95%CI 0.99, 1.11) and obese women (aHR 1.15; 95%CI 1.05, 1.25). Excess clinic attendances were particularly due to skin, respiratory and ear infections. Maternal obesity may therefore influence infant infectious morbidity in LMIC over the first year after birth.
Estimation of moisture ratio for apple drying by convective and microwave methods using artificial neural network modeling
Authors: Rasooli Sharabiani Vali , Kaveh Mohammad , Abdi Roozbeh , Szymanek Mariusz , Tanaś Wojciech
Published: April 2021

Two different drying methods were applied for dehydration of apple, i.e., convective drying (CD) and microwave drying (MD). The process of convective drying through divergent temperatures; 50, 60 and 70 °C at 1.0 m/s air velocity and three different levels of microwave power (90, 180, and 360 W) were studied. In the analysis of the performance of our approach on moisture ratio (MR) of apple slices, artificial neural networks (ANNs) was used to provide with a background for further discussion and evaluation. In order to evaluate the models mentioned in the literature, the Midilli et al. model was proper for dehydrating of apple slices in both MD and CD. The MD drying technology enhanced the drying rate when compared with CD drying significantly. Effective diffusivity (Deff) of moisture in CD drying (1.95 × 10−7–4.09 × 10−7 m2/s) was found to be lower than that observed in MD (2.94 × 10−7–8.21 × 10−7 m2/s). The activation energy (Ea) values of CD drying and MD drying were 122.28–125 kJ/mol and 14.01–15.03 W/g respectively. The MD had the lowest specific energy consumption (SEC) as compared to CD drying methods. According to ANN results, the best R2 values for prediction of MR in CD and MD were 0.9993 and 0.9991, respectively.
Effects of a psychosocial intervention at one-year follow-up in a PREDIMED-plus sample with obesity and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Mallorquí-Bagué Núria , Lozano-Madrid María , Vintró-Alcaraz Cristina , Forcano Laura , Díaz-López Andrés , Galera Ana , Fernández-Carrión Rebeca , Granero Roser , Jiménez-Murcia Susana , Corella Dolores , Pintó Xavier , Cuenca-Royo Aida , Bulló Mònica , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , de la Torre Rafael , Fernández-Aranda Fernando
Published: April 2021

This study examines if overweight/obesity are related to higher impulsivity, food addiction and depressive symptoms, and if these variables could be modified after 1 year of a multimodal intervention (diet, physical activity, psychosocial support). 342 adults (55–75 years) with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) from the PREDIMED-Plus Cognition study were randomized to the intervention or to the control group (lifestyle recommendations). Cognitive and psychopathological assessments were performed at baseline and after 1-year follow-up. At baseline, higher impulsivity was linked to higher food addiction and depressive symptoms, but not to body mass index (BMI). Food addiction not only predicted higher BMI and depressive symptoms, but also achieved a mediational role between impulsivity and BMI/depressive symptoms. After 1 year, patients in both groups reported significant decreases in BMI, food addiction and impulsivity. BMI reduction and impulsivity improvements were higher in the intervention group. Higher BMI decrease was achieved in individuals with lower impulsivity. Higher scores in food addiction were also related to greater post-treatment impulsivity. To conclude, overweight/obesity are related to higher impulsivity, food addiction and depressive symptoms in mid/old age individuals with MetS. Our results also highlight the modifiable nature of the studied variables and the interest of promoting multimodal interventions within this population.
A randomised clinical trial comparing 35 Hz versus 50 Hz frequency stimulation effects on hand motor recovery in older adults after stroke
Authors: Sentandreu-Mañó Trinidad , Tomás José M. , Ricardo Salom Terrádez J.
Published: April 2021

More solid data are needed regarding the application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in the paretic hand following a stroke. A randomised clinical trial was conducted to compare the effects of two NMES protocols with different stimulation frequencies on upper limb motor impairment and function in older adults with spastic hemiparesis after stroke. Sixty nine outpatients were randomly assigned to the control group or the experimental groups (NMES with 50 Hz or 35 Hz). Outcome measures included motor impairment tests and functional assessment. They were collected at baseline, after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, and after a follow-up period. NMES groups showed significant changes (p < 0.05) with different effect sizes in range of motion, grip and pinch strength, the Modified Ashworth Scale, and the muscle electrical activity in the extensors of the wrist. The 35 Hz NMES intervention showed a significant effect on Barthel Index. Additionally, there were no significant differences between the groups in the Box and Block Test. Both NMES protocols proved evidence of improvements in measurements related to hand motor recovery in older adults following a stroke, nevertheless, these findings showed that the specific stimulation frequency had different effects depending on the clinical measures under study.
Diagnostic delay of associated interstitial lung disease increases mortality in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Cano-Jiménez Esteban , Vázquez Rodríguez Tomás , Martín-Robles Irene , Castillo Villegas Diego , Juan García Javier , Bollo de Miguel Elena , Robles-Pérez Alejandro , Ferrer Galván Marta , Mouronte Roibas Cecilia , Herrera Lara Susana , Bermudo Guadalupe , García Moyano Marta , Rodríguez Portal Jose Antonio , Sellarés Torres Jacobo , Narváez Javier , Molina-Molina María
Published: April 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease whose main extra-articular organ affected is the lung, sometimes in the form of diffuse interstitial lung disease (ILD) and conditions the prognosis. A multicenter, observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study of consecutive patients diagnosed with RA-ILD. Demographic, analytical, respiratory functional and evolution characteristics were analyzed to evaluate the predictors of progression and mortality. 106 patients were included. The multivariate analysis showed that the diagnostic delay was an independent predictor of mortality (HR 1.11, CI 1.01–1.23, p = 0.035). Also, age (HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.09–1.62, p = 0.0045), DLCO (%) (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.73–0.98, p = 0.0246), and final SatO2 (%) in the 6MWT (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.39–0.99, p = 0.0465) were independent predictor variables of mortality, as well as GAP index (HR 4.65, 95% CI 1.59–13.54, p = 0.0051) and CPI index (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.03–1.22, p = 0.0092). The withdrawal of MTX or LFN after ILD diagnosis was associated with disease progression in the COX analysis (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.14–4.18, p = 0.019). This is the first study that highlights the diagnostic delay in RA-ILD is associated with an increased mortality just like happens in IPF.
Publisher Correction: Sensitivity and specificity of blood-fluid levels for oral anticoagulant-associated intracerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Almarzouki Abeer , Wilson Duncan , Ambler Gareth , Shakeshaft Clare , Cohen Hannah , Yousry Tarek , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Houlden Henry , Brown Martin M. , Muir Keith W. , Jäger Hans Rolf , Werring David J.
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: ExoFiT trial at the Atacama Desert (Chile): Raman detection of biomarkers by representative prototypes of the ExoMars/Raman Laser Spectrometer
Authors: Veneranda Marco , Lopez-Reyes Guillermo , Saiz Jesus , Manrique-Martinez Jose Antonio , Sanz-Arranz Aurelio , Medina Jesús , Moral Andoni , Seoane Laura , Ibarmia Sergio , Rull Fernando
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: An integrative atlas of chicken long non-coding genes and their annotations across 25 tissues
Authors: Jehl Frédéric , Muret Kévin , Bernard Maria , Boutin Morgane , Lagoutte Laetitia , Désert Colette , Dehais Patrice , Esquerré Diane , Acloque Hervé , Giuffra Elisabetta , Djebali Sarah , Foissac Sylvain , Derrien Thomas , Pitel Frédérique , Zerjal Tatiana , Klopp Christophe , Lagarrigue Sandrine
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The effects of seasons and weather on sleep patterns measured through longitudinal multimodal sensing
Authors: Mattingly Stephen M. , Grover Ted , Martinez Gonzalo J. , Aledavood Talayeh , Robles-Granda Pablo , Nies Kari , Striegel Aaron , Mark Gloria
Published: April 2021

Previous studies of seasonal effects on sleep have yielded unclear results, likely due to methodological differences and limitations in data size and/or quality. We measured the sleep habits of 216 individuals across the U.S. over four seasons for slightly over a year using objective, continuous, and unobtrusive measures of sleep and local weather. In addition, we controlled for demographics and trait-like constructs previously identified to correlate with sleep behavior. We investigated seasonal and weather effects of sleep duration, bedtime, and wake time. We found several small but statistically significant effects of seasonal and weather effects on sleep patterns. We observe the strongest seasonal effects for wake time and sleep duration, especially during the spring season: wake times are earlier, and sleep duration decreases (compared to the reference season winter). Sleep duration also modestly decreases when day lengths get longer (between the winter and summer solstice). Bedtimes and wake times tend to be slightly later as outdoor temperature increases.
Understanding the unusual stiffness of hydrophobic dipeptide crystals
Authors: M. del Campo Jorge , Ireta Joel
Published: April 2021

Hydrophobic dipeptide crystals are unusually stiff. Their stiffness is connected to the number, orientation and strength of the hydrogen bonds developed along the crystals.
Deriving accurate molecular indicators of protein synthesis through Raman-based sparse classification
Authors: Pavillon Nicolas , Smith Nicholas I.
Published: April 2021

Sparse Raman-based models can reach high accuracy and stability for the prediction of fine biological processes (immune activation and protein synthesis), and privilege the use of side bands for the discriminating cellular differences.
AES and ToF-SIMS combination for single cell chemical imaging of gold nanoparticle-labeled Escherichia coli
Authors: Courrèges Cécile , Bonnecaze Mélanie , Flahaut Delphine , Nolivos Sophie , Grimaud Régis , Allouche Joachim
Published: April 2021

The first time combination of AES and ToF-SIMS for single cell chemical imaging of gold nanoparticle-labeled Escherichia coli.
Graphene-induced growth of Co3O4 nanoplates with modulable oxygen vacancies for improved OER properties
Authors: Qi Lei , Wang Mei , Li Xinheng
Published: April 2021

Graphene-induced growth of Co(OH)2 nanoplates from Co3O4 nanospheres was reported, showing an ultralow overpotential of 240 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 107.8 mV dec−1.
Optimizing crystal characterization of WO3–ZnO composites for boosting photoactive performance via manipulating crystal formation conditions
Authors: Liang Yuan-Chang , Wang Yu-Pin
Published: April 2021

Controlling crystal formation conditions enables the manipulation of crystal quality and photoactive performance of WO3–ZnO nanorods.
Hydrogen adsorption trends on two metal-doped Ni2P surfaces for optimal catalyst design
Authors: Partanen Lauri , Alberti Simon , Laasonen Kari
Published: April 2021

DFT calculations on Ni3P2 terminated N2P suggest improved HER activity through cobalt and iron co-doping.
Coordination-driven self-assembly of a series of dinuclear M2L2 mesocates with a bis-bidentate pyridylimine ligand
Authors: Chainok Kittipong , Jittirattanakun Siripak , Theppitak Chatphorn , Jiajaroen Suwadee , Puangsing Praifon , Saphu Watcharin , Kielar Filip , Dungkaew Winya , Rungtaweevoranit Bunyarat , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol
Published: April 2021

The metallosupramolecular M2L2 mesocate was rationally designed and synthesized. This material shows exceptionally high MeOH vapour uptake at STP with good recyclability and also exhibits CO2 adsorption at room temperature and 1 bar.
Correction: Potentiation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon uptake in zebrafish embryos by nanoplastics
Authors: Zhang Yueyang , Goss Greg G.
Published: April 2021

Correction for ‘Potentiation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon uptake in zebrafish embryos by nanoplastics’ by Yueyang Zhang et al., Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2020, 7, 1730–1741, DOI: 10.1039/D0EN00163E.
A high-throughput screening of metal–organic framework based membranes for biogas upgrading
Authors: Glover Joseph , Besley Elena
Published: April 2021

High-throughput computational screening methodology designed to identify the most promising porous metal–organic frameworks for biogas upgrading.
The nucleobase assisted pyrene functionalization of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Mouli M. S. S. Vinod , Tamrakar Arpna , Pandey Mrituanjay D. , Mishra Ashutosh Kumar
Published: April 2021

Gold nanoparticles were functionalized with a pyrene fluorophore without compromising the functional behaviour of the fluorophore.
Exploiting the role of stereoelectronic effects to design the antagonists of the human complement C3a receptor
Authors: Jindani Sana , Ganguly Bishwajit
Published: April 2021

Stereoelectronic effects are crucial in governing the conformational behaviour of small molecules bearing heterocyclic rings adjacent to amides.
Ferrocene-crosslinked polypyrrole hydrogel derived Fe–N-doped hierarchical porous carbon as an efficient electrocatalyst for pH universal ORR and Zn–air batteries
Authors: Sun Peng , Zhang Teng , Luo Haotian , Dou Jinli , Bian Weiwei , Pan Zhengxuan , Zheng Aili , Zhou Baolong
Published: April 2021

A Fe–N-doped catalyst (PF-800), prepared via pyrolysis of ferrocene-crosslinked polypyrrole hydrogel, shows impressive activity for ORR in various pH. Further Zn–air battery using PF-800 present high energy density and excellent long-term stability.
Reactivity and mechanisms of hydridic hydrogen of B–H in ammonia borane towards acetic acids: the ammonia B-monoacyloxy boranes
Authors: Li Huizhen , Li Yunhui , Kang Jiaxin , Fan Lin , Yang Qiuyu , Li Shujun , Rahman Abdul , Chen Daqi
Published: April 2021

B-monoacyloxy boranes are first obtained by moderate reactions of ammonia borane with acetic acids.
Correction: Hollow Au nanorattles for boosting the performance of organic photovoltaics
Authors: Bao Zhi Yong , Liu Shenghua , Hou Yidong , Shang Aixue , Yan Feng , Wu Yucheng , Lei Dangyuan , Dai Jiyan
Published: April 2021

Correction for ‘Hollow Au nanorattles for boosting the performance of organic photovoltaics’ by Zhi Yong Bao et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2019, 7, 26797–26803, DOI: 10.1039/C9TA07974B.
Hearing and Exposure to Music in Adolescents From Four Schools of Córdoba, Argentina
Authors: Gaetán Sara , Muratore Jimena , Maggi Ana Luz , Villalobo Jorge Pérez , de los Ángeles Hinalaf María
Published: April 2021

Purposes

The aims of this study are (a) to characterize the hearing of adolescents from four schools of Córdoba, Argentina, through the analysis of conventional and extended high-frequency audiometric thresholds and otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) and (b) to analyze the association between the mentioned hearing tests and exposure to music.

Method

It was a cross-sectional correlational descriptive study. Hearing thresholds (250–16000 Hz), transient evoked OAEs, and distortion product OAEs were evaluated in 225 adolescents (450 ears) aged 14 and 15 years. The ears were split into two groups: Group 1 had thresholds ≤ 21 dB HL in all frequencies, and Group 2 had thresholds > 21 dB HL in at least one. Exposure to music was evaluated through a questionnaire.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found in both ears between Groups 1 and 2. A notch at 3000–6000 Hz was noted in both groups. Group 2 showed a progressive threshold increase from 9000 Hz. Amplitude decrease, negative values, absent distortion product OAEs, and transient evoked OAEs were noted even in Group 1. A statistically significant association between Groups 1 and 2 and the presence/absence of OAEs was observed in most frequencies. Ears with moderate or high exposure to music had greater hearing thresholds compared to ears with low exposure at most frequencies; this was more evident in Group 1. Regarding exposure to music and OAEs, no significant differences were found between the exposure categories.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the value of implementing hearing conservation programs in Argentina, analyzing hearing tests correlated with questionnaires about recreational noise exposure in order to detect vulnerable ears early.
L’enfance du pouvoir
Authors: Charafeddine Rawan , van der Henst Jean-Baptiste
Published: April 2021

Les études de genre ont largement décrit les pratiques sociales qui conduisent, dès l’enfance, à un déséquilibre de pouvoir entre les filles et les garçons. On sait cependant peu de choses sur la manière dont les enfants eux-mêmes se représentent ce déséquilibre. Ont-ils la conscience de la fréquence plus importante du pouvoir masculin ? Et si oui, cette conscience change-t-elle en fonction de l’âge, du genre de l’enfant ou du pays dans lequel il grandit ? Afin de répondre à ces questions, nous présentons et discutons une étude empirique récente, qui montre que, dès 4 ans, des enfants issus de pays différents (Norvège, Liban, France) associent pouvoir et masculinité, mais que les filles sont moins enclines que les garçons à faire cette association. Nous examinons ensuite les craintes que les croyances enfantines d’un pouvoir genré peuvent susciter.
Dilation-predominant approach versus routine care in patients with difficult-to-treat eosinophilic esophagitis: a retrospective comparison
Authors: Greenberg Sydney , Chang Nicole C. , Corder S. Ryanne , Reed Craig C. , Eluri Swathi , Dellon Evan S.
Published: April 2021

Background Little is known about esophageal dilation as a long-term treatment approach for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). We examined the impact of a “dilate and wait” strategy on symptom management and safety of patients with EoE.

Methods This retrospective cohort study included two patient groups: those who underwent a dilation-predominant approach (≥ 3 dilations as sole therapy or for histologically refractory disease [> 15 eos/hpf]); and those who had routine care (< 3 dilations or histologic response). Group characteristics were compared and outcomes for the dilation-only group assessed.

Results 53/205 patients (26 %) received the dilation-predominant strategy (total 408 dilations), predominantly for histologic treatment nonresponse (75 %). These patients were younger (33 vs. 41 years; P = 0.003), had a narrower baseline esophageal diameter (9.8 vs. 11.5 mm; P = 0.005), underwent more dilations (7.7 vs. 3.4; P < 0.001), but achieved a smaller final diameter (15.7 vs. 16.7 mm; P = 0.01) vs. routine care. With this strategy, 30 patients (57 %) had ongoing symptom improvement, with esophageal caliber change independently associated with symptom response (adjusted odds ratio 1.79, 95 % confidence interval 1.16–2.78); 26 (49 %) used the strategy as a bridge to clinical trials. Over a median follow-up of 1001 days (interquartile range 581–1710), no deaths or dilation-related perforations occurred, but there were nine emergency room visits, including one for post-dilation bleeding and four for food impaction.

Conclusions A dilation-predominant long-term treatment strategy allowed for symptom control or bridge to clinical trials for patients with difficult-to-treat EoE. Close follow-up and monitoring for complications are required.
Who reads contemporary erotic novels and why?
Authors: Kraxenberger Maria , Knoop Christine A. , Menninghaus Winfried
Published: April 2021

In the wake of EL James’s series Fifty Shades of Grey, the book market has seen a veritable surge of bestselling erotic novels over the past decade. The online study reported here pursued two questions: (1) Who reads these erotic novels? (2) What are the reasons underlying this preference? Most of the readers of erotic novels that responded to our survey are heterosexual women in committed relationships. They are highly educated, from a broad age span, describe themselves as avid readers and like to share their reading experiences with others. Distraction and feelings of ease were identified as prime rewards associated with reading erotic novels. The sexual explicitness of the novels and their potential to provide guidance in life also play a role, yet turned out to be less important than suggested in previous research. Contrary to critical opinion, our participants consider erotic novels––at least to a certain degree–to be emancipated, feminist, and progressive. We relate this finding primarily to the surveyed participants’ rather traditional beliefs regarding gender roles. Our study is the first to explore empirically the readership and the reading rewards underlying a current large-scale cultural phenomenon, emphasizing the need for future investigations off the literary canon.
Probing astrophysical jet formation in the laboratory
Authors: Lim Alane
Published: April 2021

Self-organization may explain why jets form in astrophysical objects.