bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction models for breast cancer prognosis among Asian women
Authors: Fan Run , Chen Yufan , Nechuta Sarah , Cai Hui , Gu Kai , Shi Liang , Bao Pingping , Shyr Yu , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Ye Fei
Published: March 2021

Background

Robust and reliable prognosis prediction models have not been developed and validated for Asian patients with breast cancer, a rapidly growing yet understudied population in the United States.

Methods

We used longitudinal data from the Shanghai Breast Cancer Survival Study, a population‐based prospective cohort study (n = 5042), to develop prediction models for 5‐ and 10‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The initial models considered age at diagnosis, tumor grade, tumor size, number of positive nodes, TNM stage, chemotherapy, tamoxifen therapy, and estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status. We then evaluated whether the addition of modifiable lifestyle factors (physical activity, soy isoflavones intake, and postdiagnostic weight change) improved the models. All final models have been validated internally and externally in the National Cancer Database when applicable.

Results

Our final models included age at diagnosis, tumor grade, tumor size, number of positive nodes, TNM stage, chemotherapy, tamoxifen therapy, ER status, PR status, 6‐month postdiagnostic weight change, interaction between ER status and tamoxifen therapy, and interaction between age and TNM stage. The internal validation yielded C‐statistics of 0.76, 0.74, 0.78, and 0.75 for 5‐year DFS, 10‐year DFS, 5‐year OS, and 10‐year OS, respectively. The external validation yielded C‐statistics of 5‐ and 10‐year OS both at 0.78 for Chinese ethnicity, 0.79 for East Asian ethnicity, and 0.75 and 0.76 for all ethnic groups combined.

Conclusion

We developed prediction models for breast cancer prognosis from a large prospective study. Our prognostic models performed very well in women from the United States—particularly in Asian American women—and demonstrated high prediction accuracy and generalizability.
Evaluation of Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Drug‐Drug Interactions of an Oral Suspension of Edaravone in Healthy Adults
Authors: Shimizu Hidetoshi , Nishimura Yukiko , Shiide Yoichi , Matsuda Hideaki , Akimoto Makoto , Matsuda Munetomo , Nakamaru Yoshinobu , Kato Yuichiro , Kondo Kazuoki
Published: March 2021

Intravenous (IV) edaravone is approved as an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) treatment. Because IV administration places a burden on patients, development of orally administered ALS treatments is needed. Therefore, 2 phase 1 studies of oral formulations of edaravone in healthy subjects examined the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, racial differences, and drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) and investigated the dose of the oral formulation considered to be bioequivalent to the approved dose of the IV formulation. Study 1 was a placebo‐controlled, randomized, single‐blind study of single‐ascending‐dose oral edaravone with the dose range of 30 to 300 mg (n = 56). Study 2 was conducted in 2 cohorts (n = 84); the first assessed DDIs with multiple‐dose edaravone 120 mg/day given over 5 or 8 days (coadministered with single‐dose rosuvastatin, sildenafil, or furosemide), and the second evaluated PK and racial (Japanese/White) differences in PK parameters with doses of 100‐mg edaravone. The oral formulation of edaravone was well absorbed, and plasma concentrations of unchanged edaravone increased more than dose proportionally within the dose range of 30 to 300 mg. No effect of race on oral edaravone PK and no notable DDI effects possibly caused by orally administered edaravone were observed. The oral edaravone formulations were safe and tolerable under the assessed conditions. Mathematical modeling determined that equivalent exposures in plasma with the approved dose of the IV edaravone formulation, as reported previously, could be achieved when the oral edaravone formulation was administered at a dose of  ≈100 mg, with an absolute bioavailability of ≈60%.
Spectroscopic Investigation of Chalcogen Bonding: Halide–Carbon Disulfide Complexes
Authors: Haakansson Christian T. , Corkish Timothy R. , Watson Peter D. , Robinson Hayden T. , Tsui Terrence , McKinley Allan J. , Wild Duncan A.
Published: March 2021

A combined experimental and theoretical approach has been used to study intermolecular chalcogen bonding. Specifically, the chalcogen bonding occurring between halide anions and CS2 molecules has been investigated using both anion photoelectron spectroscopy and high‐level CCSD(T) calculations. The relative strength of the chalcogen bond has been determined computationally using the complex dissociation energies as well as experimentally using the electron stabilisation energies. The anion complexes featured dissociation energies on the order of 47 kJ/mol to 37 kJ/mol, decreasing with increasing halide size. Additionally, the corresponding neutral complexes have been examined computationally, and show three loosely‐bound structural motifs and a molecular radical.
Swarm intelligence‐based optimal device deployment in heterogeneous Internet of Things networks for wind farm application
Authors: M Vergin Raja Sarobin , Jani Anbarasi L. , Prassanna J. , Manikandan R. , Al‐Turjman Fadi
Published: March 2021

Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming a suitable surveillance system in modern power grid, right from power generation to distribution. In the case of wind power generation application, the entire wind farm is considered completely monitored using edge devices known as IoT devices. Device deployment is a major obstacle that can be addressed for this application as unfair device deployment can lead to connectivity issue. This study has two main objectives. The first objective is to determine the optimal number of IoT devices that need to be place in the potential key elements of the wind turbines/targets for coverage assurance. The second objective is to determine the optimal number of relay devices. Spacing wind turbines several hundred meters apart brings the connectivity as a second critical issue, which can be handling by placing optimal number of relay devices. Hence, the focus of this study is to address connected target coverage problem in optimal device placement of heterogeneous IoT network for wind farm monitoring. This paper discusses in detail the swarm intelligence technique known as particle swarm optimization (PSO) to solve the connectivity issue and to minimize the cost of devices deployment. Additionally, a hybrid swarm intelligence model called hybrid PSO‐ACO (HPACO) algorithm is proposed. The main goal of this hybrid model is to reduce the number of relay devices, minimize deployment cost, and to improve network connectivity. The performance of both PSO and HPACO algorithms are validating by comparing the extensive simulation results with ant colony optimizations (ACO) algorithm and other approximation algorithm.
A systematic review of human paternal oxytocin: Insights into the methodology and what we know so far
Authors: Grumi Serena , Saracino Annalisa , Volling Brenda L. , Provenzi Livio
Published: March 2021

With the consolidation of fathers’ engagement in caregiving, understanding the neuroendocrine and hormonal mechanisms underlying fatherhood becomes a relevant topic. Oxytocin (OT) has been linked with maternal bonding and caregiving, but less is known about the role of OT in human fatherhood and paternal caregiving. A systematic review of methods and findings of previous OT research in human fathers was carried. The literature search on PubMed and Scopus yielded 133 records. Twenty‐four studies were included and analyzed. Significant variability emerged in OT methodology, including laboratory tasks, assessment methods, and outcome measures. Fathers’ OT levels appear to increase after childbirth. OT was significantly correlated with less hostility and with the quality of paternal physical stimulation in play interactions, but not with paternal sensitivity. Fathers’ and children's OT levels were significantly correlated in a limited subset of studies, intriguingly suggesting that cross‐generational OT regulation may occur during the early years of life. This study highlights relevant issues and limitations of peripheral OT assessment in human subjects, especially in fathers. Although the study of paternal neuroendocrinology appears promising, coping with these issues requires dedicated efforts and methodological suggestions are provided to guide future advances in this field.
Flexibility in Red Sea Tridacna maxima‐Symbiodiniaceae associations supports environmental niche adaptation
Authors: Rossbach Susann , Hume Benjamin C. C. , Cárdenas Anny , Perna Gabriela , Voolstra Christian R. , Duarte Carlos M.
Published: March 2021

Giant clams (Tridacninae) are important members of Indo‐Pacific coral reefs and among the few bivalve groups that live in symbiosis with unicellular algae (Symbiodiniaceae). Despite the importance of these endosymbiotic dinoflagellates for clam ecology, the diversity and specificity of these associations remain relatively poorly studied, especially in the Red Sea. Here, we used the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) rDNA gene region to investigate Symbiodiniaceae communities associated with Red Sea Tridacna maxima clams. We sampled five sites spanning 1,300 km (10° of latitude, from the Gulf of Aqaba, 29°N, to the Farasan Banks, 18°N) along the Red Sea's North‐South environmental gradient. We detected a diverse and structured assembly of host‐associated algae with communities demonstrating region and site‐specificity. Specimens from the Gulf of Aqaba harbored three genera of Symbiodiniaceae, Cladocopium, Durusdinium, and Symbiodinium, while at all other sites clams associated exclusively with algae from the Symbiodinium genus. Of these exclusively Symbiodinium‐associating sites, the more northern (27° and 22°) and more southern sites (20° and 18°) formed two separate groupings despite site‐specific algal genotypes being resolved at each site. These groupings were congruent with the genetic break seen across multiple marine taxa in the Red Sea at approximately 19°, and along with our documented site‐specificity of algal communities, contrasted the panmictic distribution of the T. maxima host. As such, our findings indicate flexibility in T. maxima‐Symbiodiniaceae associations that may explain its relatively high environmental plasticity and offers a mechanism for environmental niche adaptation.
Vital rates of two small populations of brown bears in Canada and range‐wide relationship between population size and trend
Authors: McLellan Michelle L. , McLellan Bruce N. , Sollmann Rahel , Wittmer Heiko U.
Published: March 2021

Identifying mechanisms of population change is fundamental for conserving small and declining populations and determining effective management strategies. Few studies, however, have measured the demographic components of population change for small populations of mammals (<50 individuals). We estimated vital rates and trends in two adjacent but genetically distinct, threatened brown bear (Ursus arctos) populations in British Columbia, Canada, following the cessation of hunting. One population had approximately 45 resident bears but had some genetic and geographic connectivity to neighboring populations, while the other population had <25 individuals and was isolated. We estimated population‐specific vital rates by monitoring survival and reproduction of telemetered female bears and their dependent offspring from 2005 to 2018. In the larger, connected population, independent female survival was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.96–1.00) and the survival of cubs in their first year was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.62–0.95). In the smaller, isolated population, independent female survival was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.64–0.93) and first‐year cub survival was 0.33 (95% CI: 0.11–0.67). Reproductive rates did not differ between populations. The large differences in age‐specific survival estimates resulted in a projected population increase in the larger population (λ = 1.09; 95% CI: 1.04–1.13) and population decrease in the smaller population (λ = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.72–0.95). Low female survival in the smaller population was the result of both continued human‐caused mortality and an unusually high rate of natural mortality. Low cub survival may have been due to inbreeding and the loss of genetic diversity common in small populations, or to limited resources. In a systematic literature review, we compared our population trend estimates with those reported for other small populations (<300 individuals) of brown bears. Results suggest that once brown bear populations become small and isolated, populations rarely increase and, even with intensive management, recovery remains challenging.
Examining the molecular basis of coat color in a nocturnal primate family (Lorisidae)
Authors: Munds Rachel A. , Titus Chelsea L. , Moreira Lais A. A. , Eggert Lori S. , Blomquist Gregory E.
Published: March 2021

Organisms use color for camouflage, sexual signaling, or as a warning sign of danger. Primates are one of the most vibrantly colored Orders of mammals. However, the genetics underlying their coat color are poorly known, limiting our ability to study molecular aspects of its evolution. The role of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) in color evolution has been implicated in studies on rocket pocket mice (Chaetodipus intermediusi), toucans (Ramphastidae), and many domesticated animals. From these studies, we know that changes in MC1R result in a yellow/red or a brown/black morphology. Here, we investigate the evolution of MC1R in Lorisidae, a monophyletic nocturnal primate family, with some genera displaying high contrast variation in color patterns and other genera being monochromatic. Even more unique, the Lorisidae family has the only venomous primate: the slow loris (Nycticebus). Research has suggested that the contrasting coat patterns of slow lorises are aposematic signals for their venom. If so, we predict the MC1R in slow lorises will be under positive selection. In our study, we found that Lorisidae MC1R is under purifying selection (ω = 0.0912). In Lorisidae MC1R, there were a total of 75 variable nucleotides, 18 of which were nonsynonymous. Six of these nonsynonymous substitutions were found on the Perodicticus branch, which our reconstructions found to be the only member of Lorisidae that has predominantly lighter coat color; no substitutions were associated with Nycticebus. Our findings generate new insight into the genetics of pelage color and evolution among a unique group of nocturnal mammals and suggest putative underpinnings of monochromatic color evolution in the Perodicticus lineage.
The importance of environmental conditions in maintaining lineage identity in Epithelantha (Cactaceae)
Authors: Aquino David , Moreno‐Letelier Alejandra , González‐Botello Miguel A. , Arias Salvador
Published: March 2021

The use of environmental variables to explain the evolution of lineages has gained relevance in recent studies. Additionally, it has allowed the recognition of species by adding more characters to morphological and molecular information. This study focuses on identifying environmental and landscape variables that have acted as barriers that could have influenced the evolution of Epithelantha species and its close genera.

Our results show that soil pH, isothermality, temperature seasonality, and annual precipitation have a significant phylogenetic signal for Epithelantha. Soil type and landforms are also relevant as ecological barriers that maintain the identity of Epithelantha species.

The variables associated with the soil (pH) have influenced the evolution of Epithelantha and probably in other genera of Cactaceae. Additionally, Epithelantha is frequent in the piedmont and haplic kastanozems. Bioclimatic variables reinforce the recognition of E. micromeris, and E. cryptica as independent species. Therefore, ecology can be considered as a factor to explain the high level of endemism in Cactaceae.
Estimates of resource transfer via winged adult insects from the hyporheic zone in a gravel‐bed river
Authors: Rahman Mirza A. T. M. Tanvir , Negishi Junjiro N. , Akasaka Takumi , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: March 2021

Hyporheic zone (HZ) locates below the riverbed providing habitat for macroinvertebrates from where the winged adult insects (i.e., hyporheic insects, HIs) emerge and bring out aquatic resources to the riparian zone. This study estimated mean daily flux as dry biomass (BM), carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) deriving from the dominant HI species Alloperla ishikariana (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae) for a 4th‐order gravel‐bed river during the early‐summer to summer periods. We hypothesized that HIs were an important contributor in total aquatic resources to the riparian zone. In 2017 and 2018, we set parallelly (May to August) and perpendicularly (June to October) oriented Malaise traps to catch the lateral and longitudinal directional dispersing winged adults of A. ishikariana, and other Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, and Diptera from the river and estimated the directional fluxes of them. We further split the directional fluxes as moving away or back to the channel (for lateral) and from down‐ to upstream or up‐ to downstream (for longitudinal). Alloperla ishikariana was similar to other Plecoptera species and differed clearly from Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera in directional characteristics of resources flux, suggesting that the extent and directions of HZ‐derived resource transfer depend on taxon‐specific flight behaviors of HIs. Contributions of A. ishikariana to the riparian zone in total aquatic C and N transfer seasonally varied and were lower in May (5%–6%) and August (2%–4%) and the highest in July (52%–70%). These conservative estimates largely increased (9% in May) after the supplementary inclusion of Diptera (Chironomidae and Tipulidae), part of which were considered HIs. We demonstrated that HZ could seasonally contribute a significant portion of aquatic resources to the riparian zone and highlighted the potential importance of HZ in nutrient balance in the river‐riparian ecosystem.
One year prognostic value of B‐lines in dyspnoeic patients
Authors: Bidaut Auriane , Hubert Arnaud , Charton Marion , Paven Elise , Leclercq Christophe , Galli Elena , Donal Erwan
Published: March 2021

Aims

Studies have demonstrated the reliability of B‐lines evaluated by lung ultrasonography to identify pulmonary congestion, but information is lacking about its utility as a prognostic marker of heart failure (HF). We sought to assess the prognostic midterm value of B‐lines in ambulatory patients presenting with dyspnoea, as an additive tool for patient management and to avoid acute HF exacerbations.

Methods and results

A total of 93 patients presenting with dyspnoea (New York Heart Association ≥2) were prospectively recruited in an outpatient clinic, and underwent clinical and echocardiographic evaluation, as well as B‐line evaluation with lung ultrasonography in eight zones. Primary endpoint was HF hospitalization at 1 year. A total of 88 patients were included, age 72.3 ± 9.6, with left ventricular ejection 47.7 ± 28.6%; E/e' 16.9 ± 10.9, left atrial volume 51.9 ± 22.5 mL/m2; peak tricuspid regurgitation velocity 2.6 ± 0.5 m/s, average B‐line count 7.7 ± 10. 8 (9%) patients were hospitalized for HF, seven of which had ≥6 B‐lines. B‐line cut‐off ≥6 (specificity = 66.2%; sensitivity = 87.5%) was predictive for HF hospitalization, with an odds ratio at 13.7 for HF hospitalization at 1 year [IC95% (1.6–117.4), P = 0.017].

Conclusions

Ambulatory patients with ≥6 B‐lines have a higher risk of HF hospitalization at 1 year. This study highlights the prognostic value of B‐lines in evaluating HF risk in dyspnoeic patients.
Constant regulation for stable CD8 T‐cell functional avidity and its possible implications for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Gilfillan Connie B. , Hebeisen Michael , Rufer Nathalie , Speiser Daniel E.
Published: March 2021

The functional avidity (FA) of cytotoxic CD8 T cells impacts strongly on their functional capabilities and correlates with protection from infection and cancer. FA depends on TCR affinity, downstream signaling strength, and TCR affinity‐independent parameters of the immune synapse, such as costimulatory and inhibitory receptors. The functional impact of coreceptors on FA remains to be fully elucidated. Despite its importance, FA is infrequently assessed and incompletely understood. There is currently no consensus as to whether FA can be enhanced by optimized vaccine dose or boosting schedule. Recent findings suggest that FA is remarkably stable in vivo, possibly due to continued signaling modulation of critical receptors in the immune synapse. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge and hypothesize that in vivo, codominant T cells constantly “equalize” their FA for similar function. We present a new model of constant FA regulation, and discuss practical implications for T‐cell‐based cancer immunotherapy.
Development of a New Voltammetric Methodology for the Determination of Ciprofloxacin in Beef Samples Using a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Nafion and Fullerenes
Authors: Hernández P. , Aguilar‐Lira G. Y. , Islas G. , Rodriguez J. A.
Published: March 2021

A sensitive, selective, and low cost electrochemical new methodology was developed for the quantification of ciprofloxacin (Cip) in beef samples by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry, using a CPE electrode modified with Nafion and Fullerenes (N−F/CPE). The optimum parameters for the composition of the N−F/CPE electrode are 0.19 g mineral oil, 0.01 g Nafion, 50 μL fullerene, and graphite powder 0.3 g. The electrochemical characterization was carried out by obtaining maximum anodic peak current associated with the oxidation of ciprofloxacin at 1.1 V, where the electrochemical process resulted to be irreversible and diffusion‐controlled. The analytical characterization of the proposed methodology was carried out resulting in a LOD of 1.0 μmol L−1, a LOQ of 3.0 μmol L−1, a sensitivity of 0.37±0.006 μA/μmolL−1, and repeatability of 5.38 %.
Disposable and Flexible Electrochemical Paper‐based Analytical Devices Using Low‐cost Conductive Ink
Authors: Fonseca Wilson Tiago , Castro Karla Ribeiro , de Oliveira Tássia Regina , Faria Ronaldo Censi
Published: March 2021

In this work, a simple procedure for construction of disposable electrochemical paper‐based analytical devices (ePADs) by screen‐printing using low‐cost materials and a home craft electronic printer is proposed. The devices were constructed using liner paper as a substrate and carbon ink prepared with graphite powder and wood glue. The ePAD was evaluated as an electrochemical sensor and biosensor. The proposed conductive carbon‐based ink can be easily prepared and is an eco‐friendly and non‐toxic material. The developed ePAD was simple to produce and can be used as a low‐cost electrochemical sensor, at less than US $0.20 per device.
Conductive 2D Metal‐organic Framework (Co, NiCo, Ni) Nanosheets for Enhanced Non‐enzymatic Detection of Urea
Authors: Wang Xiaoya , Liu Bingbing , Li Jie , Zhai Yunyun , Liu Haiqing , Li Lei , Wen Herui
Published: March 2021

2D metal‐organic framework (MOF) has potential applications in electrocatalysis owing to fast mass transfer, charge transfer and large specific surface area. Here, we had prepared three conductive 2D MOF based on Ni, NiCo and Co in a simple and rapid way. The 2D nanostructure of MOF was confirmed by SEM and TEM. The chemical composition was studied by XRD, Raman and XPS spectrum. The electrochemical oxidation and detection was investigated through cyclic voltammetry and current‐time method. Their sensing performance for urea was determined by varying oxidation potentials and metal sites. The non‐enzymatic Ni‐, NiCo‐ and Co‐MOF sensors had good catalytic activity for urea. Compared with NiCo‐ and Co‐MOF, Ni‐MOF had a wider linear range (0.5–832.5 μM), high sensitivity (1960 μA mM−1 cm−2), low detection limit (0.471 μM), and fast response time. The sensors had well repeatability, reproducibility, and selectivity to specific interfering species. Furthermore, Ni‐ and NiCo‐MOF modified electrode was also applied to detection of milk samples. The results showed that the recovery was satisfactory, which further confirmed the effectiveness of non‐enzyme sensor. In general, the highly‐sensitive 2D Ni‐ and NiCo‐MOF modified electrode has great potential as nonenzymatic urea sensors for real samples detection in hydrogen energy, clinical diagnostics, and environmental protection, et al.
Octahedral Cuprous Oxide Decorated Flexible Reduced Graphene Oxide Paper for Food Sensing Application
Authors: Song Runmin , Li Zhanhong , Mishra Rupesh K. , Wei Pengju , Zhao Xueling , Zhu Zhigang
Published: March 2021

This work presents a simple method to fabricate an octahedral cuprous oxide (Cu2O) decorated two‐dimensional (2D) flexible rGOP electrode with filtration and electrodeposition strategies. The characteristic of the Cu2O/rGOP electrodes was recorded by SEM, EDX, XPS, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy. The results clearly showed that Cu2O was successfully electrodeposited on the surface of rGOP by controlling the electrodeposition potential without the introduction of any template or surfactant. The electrochemical characterizations of the Cu2O/rGOP exhibited high electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of H2O2. The linear detection range for the Cu2O/rGOP flexible sensor was 5.0 μM to 5.5 mM, with a limit of detection of 1.27 μΜ. Subsequently, the developed flexible rGOP sensor was extended for H2O2 detection in milk samples for avoiding milk spoilage. Such judicial preparation of rGOP as a sensing device will certainly pave the way for various other sensing applications including environmental and biomedical applications.
Characteristic landforms and geomorphic features associated with impact structures: Observations at the Dhala structure, north‐central India
Authors: Singh Anuj Kumar , Pati Jayanta Kumar , Sinha Rajiv , Reimold Wolf Uwe , Prakash Kuldeep , Nadeem Mohammad , Dwivedi Shivanshu , Mishra Dhananjay , Dwivedi Akhil Kumar
Published: March 2021

Geomorphological study of some of the just more than 200 known terrestrial impact structures has demonstrated that despite extensive degradation, important geomorphological keys, such as drainage pattern, topographic signatures, erosional landforms, and depositional features, can still be assessed. They can provide possible indicators to assist in the recognition of further impact structures, especially on Precambrian shields and cratonic landmasses. This study documents the surface features and landforms of the Paleoproterozoic, about 11 km diameter Dhala impact structure in India. The Dhala structure has an estimated age that is constrained stratigraphically between 1.7 and 2.5 Ga. This structure is deeply eroded, and barely has a morphological resemblance to other known terrestrial or extraterrestrial impact structures. We have analyzed the operative surface‐forming processes for the Dhala area.

We demand to continue the in‐depth study of all terrestrial impact structures, especially the pre‐Paleozoic ones, so that geomorphological criteria can be rigorously constrained and applied in conjunction with a priori remote sensing and field data to support the identification of new structures prior to their ultimate confirmation using diagnostic evidence of shock metamorphism.
Setting a Protective Threshold Value for Silver Toward Freshwater Organisms
Authors: Arijs Katrien , Nys Charlotte , Van Sprang Patrick , De Schamphelaere Karel , Mertens Jelle
Published: March 2021

Driven by Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 and the European Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC, we have re-evaluated the available chronic freshwater ecotoxicity data for ionic silver (Ag) using strict data quality criteria. In addition, we generated new chronic ecotoxicity data for species potentially sensitive to Ag (the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus, the cyanobacteria Anabaena flos-aquae, and the aquatic plant Lemna minor) using Ag nitrate as the test substance. The 10% effect concentrations for the most sensitive endpoint per test species were 0.31 µg dissolved Ag/L for B. calyciflorus (population size), 0.41 µg dissolved Ag/L for A. flos-aquae (growth rate), and 1.40 µg dissolved Ag/L for L. minor (root length). We included these values in the set of reliable chronic freshwater data, subsequently covering a total of 12 taxonomic groups and 15 species. Finally, we applied a species sensitivity distribution approach to the data set using various models. The best-fitting model (Rayleigh distribution) resulted in a threshold value protective for 95% of the species of 0.116 µg dissolved Ag/L. This value is considered reliable and conservative in terms of species protection and can be used as a solid basis for setting thresholds for Ag in freshwater after application of an appropriate assessment factor. Furthermore, this value represents reasonable worst-case conditions for bioavailability in European Union surface waters (low hardness and low dissolved organic carbon). Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1678–1693. © 2021 European Precious Metals Federation. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
The role of unmanned aerial vehicles and mmWave in 5G: Recent advances and challenges
Authors: Khan Shah Khalid , Naseem Usman , Siraj Haris , Razzak Imran , Imran Muhammad
Published: March 2021

Next‐generation wireless communication networks, in particular, the densified 5G will bring many developments to the existing telecommunications industry. The key benefits will be the higher throughput and very low latency. In this context, the usage of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is becoming a feasible option for deploying 5G services on demand. At the same time, the immense bandwidth potential of mmWave has strengthened its performance in radio communication. In this article, we provide a consolidated synthesis on the role of UAVs and mmWave in 5G, emphasis on recent developments and challenges. The review focuses on UAV relay architectures, identifies the relevant problems and limitations in the deployment of UAVs using mmWave in both access and backhaul links simultaneously. There is a critical analysis of the optimum placement of the UAVs as a relay with a focus on the mmWave band. The distinctive rich characteristics of the mmWave propagation and scattering are presented. We also synthesis mmWave path loss models. Then, the scope of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques as an efficient solution for combating the dynamic and complex nature of UAV‐based cellular communication networks are discussed. In the end, security and privacy issues in UAV‐based cellular network are spotlighted. It is believed that the literature discussed, and the findings reached in this article are of significant importance to researchers, application engineers and decision‐makers in the designing and deployment of UAV‐supported 5G network.
International differences in interspousal health correlations
Authors: Banks James , Kesternich Iris , Smith James P.
Published: March 2021

Using objective measures of lung function, we document strong positive associations in health within couples in all European countries but large and significant differences in this correlation within broad European regions, with Southern Europe having by far stronger correlations than elsewhere. We analyze potential explanations for such differences, investigating the role of measures capturing current and past health behaviors, early life circumstances of each spouse, and measures capturing assortative mating in multiple dimensions. We show that marital sorting patterns by dimensions of early life health and socioeconomic position, as well as by geographical subregion within countries, are key to understanding the empirical patterns observed.
Dual‐Specificity Phosphatase 9 Regulates Cellular Proliferation and Predicts Recurrence After Surgery in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Kui , Gorgen Andre , Ding Avrilynn , Du Lulu , Jiang Keruo , Ding Yu , Sapisochin Gonzalo , Ghanekar Anand
Published: March 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (CC) is a common and deadly cancer with complex molecular pathogenesis. Little is known about dual‐specificity phosphatases (DUSPs) in HCC. We investigated DUSP9 expression in human HCC, associations between DUSP9 and patient outcomes, and effects of altered DUSP9 expression on HCC biology. We studied public data sets as well as 196 patients at our institution who had HCC resections. Quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot demonstrated that DUSP9 expression was increased >10‐fold in HCC compared to adjacent liver and healthy controls (P = 0.005). Kaplan‐Meier and multivariable regression analyses revealed that higher DUSP9 expression was associated with shorter disease‐free survival (high DUSP9, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 0.9‐2.3 vs. low DUSP9, 3.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.8‐5.0 years; P = 0.04) and increased risk of recurrence (hazard ratio 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.01‐2.67; P = 0.05) after resection. DUSP9 complementary DNA (cDNA) was cloned using rapid amplification of cDNA ends, revealing two DUSP9 isoforms in human HCC cells. Studies of transcriptional regulation using promoter‐luciferase reporter constructs suggested that DUSP9 transcription is regulated by E26 transformation‐specific transcription factors. Proliferation of hepatic cells in vitro was enhanced by lentiviral‐mediated overexpression of DUSP9. In contrast, DUSP9 knockout HCC cells generated using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) demonstrated decreased HCC proliferation and doxorubicin resistance in vitro and impaired xenograft growth in vivo. RNA sequencing, gene set enrichment, and network/pathway analysis revealed that DUSP9 knockout is associated with activation of protein kinase activity and apoptosis. Conclusion: DUSP9 regulates cell proliferation and predicts recurrence after surgery in HCC. DUSP9 may represent a novel prognostic candidate and therapeutic target. Additional studies are warranted to further explore the role and regulation of DUSP9 in HCC.
Anionic Thia‐Fries Rearrangement at Ferrocene: A Computational and Experimental Study
Authors: Boston Geanne M. R. , Frank Irmgard , Butenschön Holger
Published: March 2021

Ferrocenyl triflate (1) and 1,1′‐ferrocenediyl ditriflate (5) undergo single and double anionic thia‐Fries rearrangements at low temperatures in high yields with the latter forming exclusively the respective meso product. The detailed mechanisms of the anionic thia‐Fries rearrangement of 1, as well as that of the double anionic thia‐Fries rearrangement of 5, are examined with the aid of DFT calculations. Functionals, basis set and pseudopotentials applied were selected in accordance with a benchmark using the crystal structure analysis of the prime product 3 of the reaction of 1 before hydrolysis for comparison, which has so far not been reported. The unprecedented meso diastereoselectivity of the double anionic thia‐Fries rearrangement of 5 is shown to be a result of a distinctive degree of chelation arising from two diastereomeric transition states.
Thermal conductivity enhancement for CuO nanoflakes in oil‐based and oil blend‐based nanofluids
Authors: Abutaleb Ahmed , Imran Mohd
Published: March 2021

We report the synthesis and characterization of copper oxide (CuO) nanoflakes (Nflks) for thermal conductivity analysis. The synthesized Nflks were used for the preparation of oil‐based and oil blend‐based nanofluids. A dynamic light scattering study was carried out for aqueous suspension of CuO Nflks. The size distribution data show the two peaks emerged at 178.2 ± 31.77 nm and 861.7 ± 248.6 nm. The zeta potential was investigated, and the peak was observed at −46.4 ± 14.3 mV. The average thermal conductivity coefficients were calculated for mineral oil, sunflower oil, and oil blend, which were found to be 0.086, 0.105, and 0.099 W/mK, respectively. Furthermore, thermal conductivity enhancement was calculated, and the maximum percent enhancement was recorded for sunflower oil‐based nanofluid, which was found to be ~20.68% at 0.46 vol%. At similar vol%, the enhancement in thermal conductivity in oil blend‐based and mineral oil‐based nanofluids was found to be 16.14 and 15.73%, respectively. The oil‐based nanofluids are promising in electronics and modern computational devices to minimize the heating effect.
Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) encoded microRNA BART8‐3p drives radioresistance‐associated metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Xiaohan , Lin Yanling , Chen Yuting , Wang Lingzhi , Peng Xiaohong , Liao Jinrong , Zeng Hanyi , Luo Wenxiao , Wu Dehua , Cai Longmei
Published: March 2021

Radiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), however, 20% of patients with NPC exhibit unusual radioresistance. Patients with radioresistance are at risk of recurrence, so it is imperative to explore the mechanism of resistance to radiotherapy. In the past, studies on the mechanism of radioresistance have been restricted to DNA damage and related cell cycle remodeling or apoptosis. So far, no studies have explored the relationship between radioresistance and metastasis. Through the analysis of clinical samples, we observed that the metastasis rate of recurrent NPC was much higher than that of primary patients. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that NPC cells with acquired radioresistance exhibited a stronger ability for invasion and metastasis. Mechanistically, we found that the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐encoded miRNA BART8‐3p was increased in patients with NPC, and its expression was positively correlated with adverse prognostic factors, such as radioresistance. Besides this, miR‐BART8‐3p promoted the epithelial–mesenchymal transition, invasion, and metastasis of radioresistant NPC cells by targeting and inhibiting their PAG1 host gene. These findings suggested a novel role for EBV‐miR‐BART8‐3p in promoting NPC radioresistance‐associated metastasis and highlighted its potential value as a prognostic indicator or therapeutic target.
Long non‐coding RNA ADAMTS9‐AS1 inhibits the progression of prostate cancer by modulating the miR‐142‐5p/CCND1 axis
Authors: Zhou Zhien , Wu Xingcheng , Zhou Yi , Yan Weigang
Published: March 2021

Background

Emerging evidence has implied the importance of long non‐coding RNAs in cancer development, including prostate cancer (PCa). Bioinformatic analyses have identified that ADAMTS9‐AS1 may play a role in cancer progression.

Methods

A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to measure ADAMTS9‐AS1 expression level at messenger RNA level. In vitro functional analyses were performed to investigate cell behaviors status under different conditions. Moreover, rescue assays were conducted to explore the potential mechanisms of ADAMTS9‐AS1 in PCa progression.

Results

ADAMTS9‐AS1 expression is down‐regulated in PCa. Forcing ADAMTS9‐AS1 expression impedes PCa cell proliferation via initiating cell apoptosis. Importantly, microRNA‐142‐5p (miR‐142‐5p) mimic and small‐interfering RNA targeting cyclin D1 (CCND1, si‐CCND1) could attenuate the inhibitory effects of ADAMTS9‐AS1 overexpression on PCa cell growth.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results indicate that ADAMTS9‐AS1 suppresses PCa progression by regulating the miR‐142‐5p/CCND1 axis, which provides a new mechanism for the progression of PCa.
Effectiveness of retreatment with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir+sofosbuvir+ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C, subtype 1b, and cirrhosis, who failed previous treatment with first‐ and second‐generation NS5A inhibitors
Authors: Fedorchenko Sergii V. , Martynovych Tatiana , Klimenko Zhanna , Solianyk Iryna
Published: March 2021

The use of direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) in patients with chronic HCV genotype (GT) 1 infection results in sustained virologic response (SVR) rates of 95%–97%, but 3%–5% of patients experience virologic failure. We observed 41 patients infected with HCV subtype 1b who failed previous treatment with DAAs, including 37 subjects (90.2%) with liver cirrhosis. In total, 30 (73.2%) subjects previously received NS5A inhibitors of the first generation (ledipasvir, daclatasvir, or ombitasvir) and 11 subjects (26.8%) received NS5A inhibitors of the second generation (velpatasvir). All patients received retreatment with a combination of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir (3D) with sofosbuvir (SOF) and ribavirin (RBV). We compared SVR12 rates depending on fibrosis stage, presence of just single or double NS5A mutation (L31M/V/I and/or Y93H), and the generation of previously used NS5A inhibitors. Observed SVR12 rates were as follows: 97.6% (40/41 patients) overall; 100% in patients without cirrhosis (n = 4) versus 97.3% in those with cirrhosis (n = 37); 100% with single L31M/V/I or Y93H mutation (n = 22) versus 94.4% with double mutations (n = 18); 100% in patients who failed previous treatment with first‐generation (n = 30) versus 90.9% in those who failed previous treatment with second‐generation NS5A inhibitors (n = 11). Retreatment with 3D + SOF + RBV was highly effective and safe in patients with chronic HCV GT1b infection, including those with liver cirrhosis, who failed previous treatment with DAA containing NS5A inhibitors. Fibrosis stage and single or simultaneous presence of NS5A RASs L31M/V/I and Y93H at the baseline, as well as the generation of previously used NS5A inhibitors, did not impact SVR12 rates.
Severity of RSV infection in Southern European elderly patients during two consecutive winter seasons (2017–2018)
Authors: Boattini Matteo , Almeida André , Christaki Eirini , Marques Torcato Moreira , Tosatto Valentina , Bianco Gabriele , Iannaccone Marco , Tsiolakkis Georgios , Karagiannis Christos , Maikanti Panagiota , Cruz Lourenço , Antão Diogo , Moreira Maria Inês , Cavallo Rossana , Costa Cristina
Published: March 2021

In Europe, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance system is very heterogeneous and there is growing evidence of the importance of RSV infections resulting in hospitalization of elderly patients. The aim of this study was to assess the severity of RSV infection in the elderly living in the aged Southern European countries. We conducted a retrospective study of elderly patients ( ≥65‐year old) admitted for laboratory‐confirmed RSV infection in three tertiary hospitals in Portugal, Italy, and Cyprus over two consecutive winter seasons (2017–2018). Uni‐multivariable analyses were carried out to evaluate the effect of clinical variables on radiologically confirmed pneumonia, use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV), and in‐hospital death (IHD). A total of 166 elderly patients were included. Pneumonia was evident in 29.5%. NIV was implemented in 16.3%, length of stay was 11.8 ± 12.2 days, and IHD occurred in 12.1%. Multivariable analyses revealed that the risk of pneumonia was higher in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (odds ratio [OR]: 2.57; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–5.91); the use of NIV was higher in patients with obstructive sleep apnea or obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OSA or OHS) (OR: 5.38; 95% CI: 1.67–17.35) and CKD (OR: 2.52; 95% CI: 1.01–6.23); the risk of IHD was higher in males (OR: 3.30; 95% CI: 1.07–10.10) and in patients with solid neoplasm (OR: 9.06; 95% CI: 2.44–33.54) and OSA or OHS (OR: 8.39; 95% CI: 2.14–32.89). Knowledge of factors associated with RSV infection severity may aid clinicians to set priorities and reduce disease burden. Development of effective antiviral treatment and vaccine against RSV is highly desirable.
Influence of the MJO on daily surface air temperature over Iran
Authors: Pourasghar Farnaz , Oliver Eric C. J. , Holbrook Neil J.
Published: March 2021

The influence of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) on surface air temperature over Iran is examined using daily data from meteorological stations from 1979 to 2015. Composites of daily surface air temperature anomalies are positive in MJO phases 1 and 8 and negative in MJO phases 3–4 with broader region positive tendencies also in MJO phases 2 and 7, and negative tendencies in MJO phases 5–6. This variability is associated with horizontal temperature advection, whereby the southerly (northward) winds act to heat and the northerly (southward) winds cool Iran, in association with the MJO. Further, we find that daily minimum surface air temperatures respond more strongly to the MJO than do daily maximum surface temperatures. These signals correspond to cloudy and humid conditions.
Technologies for the Crystal LED display system
Authors: Biwa Goshi , Aoyagi Akiyoshi , Doi Masato , Tomoda Katsuhiro , Yasuda Atsushi , Kadota Hisashi
Published: March 2021

We have developed novel active matrix driving technology integrating red–green–blue (RGB) microscale light emitting diodes (micro LEDs) and a microscale integrated circuit (micro IC) in each pixel for the Crystal LED display system. The small size and closely placed RGB subpixels of micro LEDs enabled us to achieve an outstanding contrast ratio even in a bright environment. We also achieved superior luminance linearity and chromaticity stability using accurate pulse width modulation (PWM) driving by micro ICs in the active matrix system. To integrate micro LEDs and micro ICs into a scalable display system, an additional fine‐patterned layer was applied to a conventional printed circuit board (PCB). In addition, with precise tiling technology, we could produce a large‐scale image providing an immersive visual experience.
Current trend of antibiotic prescription and management for peritonsillar abscess: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wu Vincent , Manojlovic Kolarski Mirko , Kandel Christopher E. , Monteiro Eric , Chan Yvonne
Published: March 2021

Objective

There are no consensus guidelines for managing peritonsillar abscess (PTA) despite its prevalence. In order to devise best practice guidelines, current practice patterns must first be established.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study, surveying Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery trainees (residents and fellows) and consultant (academic and community). The primary outcome was the type and duration of outpatient antibiotic prescription. Secondary outcomes included differences in workup, management, prescription, and follow‐up.

Results

There were 57 respondents to the survey; 24 (42%) trainees (residents/fellows) and 33 (58%) consultants. On average, each respondent managed an average of 15.2 (SD 11.2) PTAs within the last year. All respondents prescribed oral antibiotics, with amoxicillin—clavulanic acid being the most common (61%). Trainees prescribed amoxicillin—clavulanic acid more often than consultants (n = 21, 88% vs n = 14, 42%, P = .0084), respectively. Duration of antibiotic therapy ranged from 5 to 14 days. Most commonly, a 10‐day course of antibiotics was prescribed (n = 31, 54%). Regarding the management of PTAs, a majority of respondents requested blood work (n = 39, 68%), performed needle aspiration (n = 42, 72%) and performed incision and drainage (n = 52, 91%). Culture and sensitivity of the aspirate/drainage fluid was frequently performed (n = 41, 72%). Patients were often provided non‐opioid analgesics (n = 46, 81%), but more than half still received prescription opioids (n = 36, 63%). The majority of clinicians arranged for follow‐up (n = 42, 74%), most often with Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery (n = 27, 64%), with an average follow‐up of 12.5 (SD 8.2) days.

Conclusion

We found heterogeneity in the management of PTAs, with variability in the outpatient antibiotic prescription. This study highlighted the wide range of management strategies employed along with differences in workup, investigation, post‐discharge analgesic prescription, and follow‐up arrangements.

Level of Evidence

5.