bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operations‐Related Structural Flux: Firm Performance Effects of Executives’ Appointments and Exits
Authors: Vaid Shashank , Ahearne Michael , Krause Ryan
Published: January 2021

Conceptualized as a meta‐construct, operations‐related structural flux (ORSF) refers to appointments and exits—voluntary or involuntary—of operations‐related executives, to and from the firm. This research leverages the contingency theory perspective to show that ORSF’s influence on firm performance is contingent on contextual circumstances of such executive changes, specifically, appointments and exits—voluntary or involuntary. Examining executive turnover data from North American public firms between 2000 and 2016, the authors find that the firm‐level context of operations executives’ turnover is consequential for firm performance. On average, operations appointments are adaptive, but operations exits, including those due to both voluntary and involuntary reasons, disrupt firm performance. However, parallel effects are not evident for marketing‐ and finance‐related appointments and exits. Furthermore, our study reveals that exit of one operations executive hurts firm performance (measured in terms of Tobin’s q) by 3.3%. A post‐hoc analysis finds that firm performance of the sample firms that witness involuntary operations‐related exits (IVOpE)is, on average, 9.2% lower than that of the sample firms that do not witness IVOpE. These results indicate the outsized influence of operations‐related executives, who collectively are generally responsible for much of a firm’s budget, workforce, resources, structures, and capabilities.
Optimal Bundling Strategy for a Retail Platform Under Agency Selling
Authors: Guo Xiaolong , Zheng Shengming , Yu Yugang , Zhang Fuqiang
Published: January 2021

Bundling strategies have been widely adopted by online retail platforms that use agency selling, where suppliers pay a commission fee to the platform to gain access and sell directly to consumers. We study the optimal bundling strategy for a retail platform through which two independent suppliers distribute their products. The suppliers first set their product prices, and, subsequently, the platform decides whether to offer the two products as a bundle and, if so, the price of the bundled product. By analyzing a two‐stage Stackelberg game, we find that the platform adopts the bundling strategy only when the commission rate and the product prices are sufficiently high. The existence of the bundling option does not affect the suppliers’ optimal pricing decisions if the product costs are either above a high threshold or below a low threshold. However, the suppliers may strategically raise the retail prices to induce the platform to offer bundled products when the marginal costs are in the medium range. The strategic interaction between the platform and suppliers leads to interesting insights into the bundling problem. For example, the retail platform may not prefer a high commission rate (i.e., a greater bargaining power) if the platform has the option to provide the bundled product. Additionally, the platform having even the possibility of bundling may hurt the platform's profit, but it always benefits the suppliers.
Looking into the future: Gene and cell therapies for glaucoma
Authors: Komáromy András M. , Koehl Kristin L. , Park Shin Ae
Published: January 2021

Glaucoma is a complex group of optic neuropathies that affects both humans and animals. Intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation is a major risk factor that results in the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Currently, lowering IOP by medical and surgical methods is the only approved treatment for primary glaucoma, but there is no cure, and vision loss often progresses despite therapy. Recent technologic advances provide us with a better understanding of disease mechanisms and risk factors; this will permit earlier diagnosis of glaucoma and initiation of therapy sooner and more effectively. Gene and cell therapies are well suited to target these mechanisms specifically with the potential to achieve a lasting therapeutic effect. Much progress has been made in laboratory settings to develop these novel therapies for the eye. Gene and cell therapies have already been translated into clinical application for some inherited retinal dystrophies and age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Except for the intravitreal application of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) by encapsulated cell technology for RGC neuroprotection, there has been no other clinical translation of gene and cell therapies for glaucoma so far. Possible application of gene and cell therapies consists of long‐term IOP control via increased aqueous humor drainage, including inhibition of fibrosis following filtration surgery, RGC neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, modification of ocular biomechanics for improved IOP tolerance, and inhibition of inflammation and neovascularization to prevent the development of some forms of secondary glaucoma.
Data-Driven Feedforward Control Design and Input Shaping Techniques for Multi Actuator Drives
Authors: Shah Prateek , Horowitz Roberto
Published: January 2021

The multi actuator drive technology was unveiled by Seagate in December 2017, a breakthrough that can almost double the data performance of the future generation hard disk drives. This technology will equip drives with dual actuators operating on the same pivot point. Each actuator will control half of the drive’s arms. Since two actuators operate independently on the same pivot timber, the control forces and torques generated by one actuator can affect the operation of the other actuator. We will have a scenario when one actuator is track seeking and the other actuator is in the track following mode. The track seeking actuator will impart vibration disturbances to the track following actuator. Previously, we presented a single-input single-output (SISO) data-driven feedforward control design method (Shah and Horowitz, 2019. “Active Vibration Rejection in Multi Actuator Drives: Data Driven Approach,” Dynamic Systems and Control Conference, Vol. 3) to obtain feedforward controllers for the voice coil motor (VCM) and the micro actuator sequentially. The design was based on multiple frequency response measurements of the actuators. In this paper, first, we present a single-input multi-output (SIMO) data-driven feedforward control design technique to simultaneously obtain feedforward controllers for the VCM and the micro actuator. This methodology will obtain a common controller for multiple drives. We will compare the performance of this algorithm with the sequential SISO design technique (Shah and Horowitz, 2019. “Active Vibration Rejection in Multi Actuator Drives: Data Driven Approach,” Dynamic Systems and Control Conference, Vol. 3). Second, we present an add-on input shaping technique to suppress the residual vibration.
Intensity of Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Dimensions of Mental Well-Being: A Reciprocal Approach Using Parallel Latent Growth Curve Modeling
Authors: Kim Changwook , Kim Jinwon , Thapa Brijesh
Published: January 2021

Background: The examination of the longitudinal effect of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) on mental well-being is important, but previous studies have typically been limited by their use of a cross-sectional approach. This study empirically examined how LTPA intensity was associated with changes in distinct functions of mental well-being (eg, emotional, psychological, social) over time, and vice versa. Methods: Parallel latent growth curve modeling in combination with propensity score matching analysis was conducted. Data were derived from a sample of adults from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. Results: The results showed that the initial level of moderate LTPA at the baseline was associated with growth in psychological and social functioning over time, and vice versa. However, vigorous LTPA at the baseline was related only to growth in emotional functioning over time. Conclusion: The longitudinal association between LTPA and mental well-being had different matching mechanisms for LTPA intensities and their relation to distinct functioning for mental well-being. The findings contribute to an enhanced understanding of LTPA’s longitudinal effect on mental well-being.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics in lungs of African green monkeys
Authors: Speranza Emily , Williamson Brandi N. , Feldmann Friederike , Sturdevant Gail L. , Pérez- Pérez Lizzette , Meade-White Kimberly , Smith Brian J. , Lovaglio Jamie , Martens Craig , Munster Vincent J. , Okumura Atsushi , Shaia Carl , Feldmann Heinz , Best Sonja M. , de Wit Emmie
Published: January 2021

Single-cell RNA sequencing of lungs of SARS-CoV-2–infected African green monkeys reveals virus replication and host response dynamics in vivo.
Performance Characteristics of the Vidas SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG Serological Assays
Authors: Renard Nathalie , Daniel Soizic , Cayet Nadège , Pecquet Matthieu , Raymond Frédérique , Pons Sylvie , Lupo Julien , Tourneur Carole , Pretis Catherine , Gerez Guillaume , Blasco Patrick , Combe Maxime , Canova Imen , Lesénéchal Mylène , Berthier Franck
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), continues to spread worldwide. Serological testing for SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies plays an important role in understanding and controlling the pandemic, notably through epidemiological surveillance.
Functional Differences between E. coli and ESKAPE Pathogen GroES/GroEL
Authors: Sivinski Jared , Ambrose Andrew J. , Panfilenko Iliya , Zerio Christopher J. , Machulis Jason M. , Mollasalehi Niloufar , Kaneko Lynn K. , Stevens Mckayla , Ray Anne-Marie , Park Yangshin , Wu Chunxiang , Hoang Quyen Q. , Johnson Steven M. , Chapman Eli
Published: January 2021

The GroES/GroEL chaperonin from
E. coli
has long served as the model system for other chaperonins. This assumption seemed valid because of the high conservation between the chaperonins.
Intracellular Density of
Wolbachia
Is Mediated by Host Autophagy and the Bacterial Cytoplasmic Incompatibility Gene
cifB
in a Cell Type-Dependent Manner in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Deehan Mark , Lin Weiwei , Blum Benjamin , Emili Andrew , Frydman Horacio
Published: January 2021

Autophagy is a eukaryotic intracellular degradation pathway which can act as an innate immune response to eliminate pathogens. Conversely, pathogens can evolve proteins which modulate the autophagy pathway to subvert degradation and establish an infection.
Wolbachia
, a vertically transmitted obligate endosymbiont which infects up to 40% of insect species, is negatively regulated by autophagy in whole animals, but the specific molecular mechanism and tissue which govern this interaction remain unknown.
Do an Altered Gut Microbiota and an Associated Leaky Gut Affect COVID-19 Severity?
Authors: Kim Heenam Stanley
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has been declared a pandemic, has exhibited a wide range of severity worldwide. Although this global variation is largely affected by socio-medical situations in each country, there is also high individual-level variation attributable to elderliness and certain underlying medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Mechanistic Analysis of the Broad Antiretroviral Resistance Conferred by HIV-1 Envelope Glycoprotein Mutations
Authors: Hikichi Yuta , Van Duyne Rachel , Pham Phuong , Groebner Jennifer L. , Wiegand Ann , Mellors John W. , Kearney Mary F. , Freed Eric O.
Published: January 2021

Although combination antiretroviral (ARV) therapy is highly effective in controlling the progression of HIV disease, drug resistance can be a major obstacle. Recent findings suggest that resistance can develop without ARV target gene mutations.
Streptococcus pyogenes Is Associated with Idiopathic Cutaneous Ulcers in Children on a Yaws-Endemic Island
Authors: Griesenauer Brad , González-Beiras Camila , Fortney Katherine R. , Lin Huaiying , Gao Xiang , Godornes Charmie , Nelson David E. , Katz Barry P. , Lukehart Sheila A. , Mitjà Oriol , Dong Qunfeng , Spinola Stanley M.
Published: January 2021

Cutaneous ulcers (CU) affect approximately 100,000 children in the tropics each year. While two-thirds of CU are caused by
Treponema pallidum
subspecies
pertenue
and
Haemophilus ducreyi
, the cause(s) of the remaining one-third is unknown.
Dinoroseobacter shibae Outer Membrane Vesicles Are Enriched for the Chromosome Dimer Resolution Site
dif
Authors: Wang Hui , Beier Nicole , Boedeker Christian , Sztajer Helena , Henke Petra , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Mansky Johannes , Rohde Manfred , Overmann Jörg , Petersen Jörn , Klawonn Frank , Kucklick Martin , Engelmann Susanne , Tomasch Jürgen , Wagner-Döbler Irene
Published: January 2021

Gram-negative bacteria continually form vesicles from their outer membrane (outer membrane vesicles [OMVs]) during normal growth. OMVs frequently contain DNA, and it is unclear how DNA can be shuffled from the cytoplasm to the OMVs.
Distribution of Mixotrophy and Desiccation Survival Mechanisms across Microbial Genomes in an Arid Biological Soil Crust Community
Authors: Meier Dimitri V. , Imminger Stefanie , Gillor Osnat , Woebken Dagmar
Published: January 2021

This study represents a comprehensive community-wide genome-centered metagenome analysis of biological soil crust (BSC) communities in arid environments, providing insights into the distribution of genes encoding different energy generation mechanisms, as well as survival strategies, among populations in an arid soil ecosystem. It reveals the metabolic potential of several uncultured and previously unsequenced microbial genera, families, and orders, as well as differences in the metabolic potential between the most abundant BSC populations and their cultured relatives, highlighting once more the danger of inferring function on the basis of taxonomy.
Nonadditive Transcriptomic Signatures of Genotype-by-Genotype Interactions during the Initiation of Plant-Rhizobium Symbiosis
Authors: Fagorzi Camilla , Bacci Giovanni , Huang Rui , Cangioli Lisa , Checcucci Alice , Fini Margherita , Perrin Elena , Natali Chiara , diCenzo George Colin , Mengoni Alessio
Published: January 2021

A sustainable way for meeting the need of an increased global food demand should be based on a holobiont perspective, viewing crop plants as intimately associated with their microbiome, which helps improve plant nutrition, tolerance to pests, and adverse climate conditions. However, the genetic repertoire needed for efficient association with plants by the microbial symbionts is still poorly understood.
Dynamics and Microevolution of
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Populations in Shellfish Farms
Authors: Fu Songzhe , Wang Qingyao , Zhang Yixiang , Yang Qian , Hao Jingwei , Liu Ying , Pang Bo
Published: January 2021

Globally,
V. parahaemolyticus
-related gastroenteritis outbreaks caused by seafood consumption represent an increasing threat to human health. Despite advances in our understanding of the global epidemiology of pandemic
V. parahaemolyticus
, fundamental questions about the key driving forces for the spread of
V. parahaemolyticus
at regional and national scales remain unanswered.
Candida
Administration Worsens Uremia-Induced Gut Leakage in Bilateral Nephrectomy Mice, an Impact of Gut Fungi and Organismal Molecules in Uremia
Authors: Panpetch Wimonrat , Kullapanich Chitrasak , Dang Cong Phi , Visitchanakun Peerapat , Saisorn Wilasinee , Wongphoom Jutamas , Wannigama Dhammika Leshan , Thim-uam Arthid , Patarakul Kanitha , Somboonna Naraporn , Tumwasorn Somying , Leelahavanichkul Asada
Published: January 2021

The impact of fungi in the intestine on acute uremia was demonstrated by the oral administration of
Candida albicans
in mice with the removal of both kidneys. Because fungi in the mouse intestine are less abundant than in humans, a
Candida
-administered mouse model has more resemblance to patient conditions.
Textural and geochemical window into the IDDP-1 rhyolitic melt, Krafla, Iceland, and its reaction to drilling
Authors: Saubin E. , Kennedy B. , Tuffen H. , Nichols A.R.L. , Villeneuve M. , Bindeman I. , Mortensen A. , Schipper C.I. , Wadsworth F.B. , Watson T. , Zierenberg R.
Published: January 2021

The unexpected intersection of rhyolitic magma and retrieval of quenched glass particles at the Iceland Deep Drilling Project-1 geothermal well in 2009 at Krafla, Iceland, provide unprecedented opportunities to characterize the genesis, storage, and behavior of subsurface silicic magma. In this study, we analyzed the complete time series of glass particles retrieved after magma was intersected, in terms of distribution, chemistry, and vesicle textures.

Detailed analysis of the particles revealed them to represent bimodal rhyolitic magma compositions and textures. Early-retrieved clear vesicular glass has higher SiO2, crystal, and vesicle contents than later-retrieved dense brown glass. The vesicle size and distribution of the brown glass also reveal several vesicle populations. The glass particles vary in δD from −120‰ to −80‰ and have dissolved water contents spanning 1.3−2 wt%, although the majority of glass particles exhibit a narrower range. Vesicular textures indicate that volatile overpressure release predominantly occurred prior to late-stage magma ascent, and we infer that vesiculation occurred in response to drilling-induced decompression. The textures and chemistry of the rhyolitic glasses are consistent with variable partial melting of host felsite. The drilling recovery sequence indicates that the clear magma (lower degree partial melt) overlays the brown magma (higher degree partial melt). The isotopes and water species support high temperature hydration of these partial melts by a mixed meteoric and magmatic composition fluid. The textural evidence for partial melting and lack of crystallization imply that magma production is ongoing, and the growing magma body thus has a high potential for geothermal energy extraction.

In summary, transfer of heat and fluids into felsite triggered variable degrees of felsite partial melting and produced a hydrated rhyolite magma with chemical and textural heterogeneities that were then enhanced by drilling perturbations. Such partial melting could occur extensively in the crust above magma chambers, where complex intrusive systems can form and supply the heat and fluids required to re-melt the host rock. Our findings emphasize the need for higher resolution geophysical monitoring of restless calderas both for hazard assessment and geothermal prospecting. We also provide insight into how shallow silicic magma reacts to drilling, which could be key to future exploration of the use of magma bodies in geothermal energy.
Societal costs of chemotherapy in the UK: an incidence-based cost-of-illness model for early breast cancer
Authors: Parsekar Krishnali , Howard Wilsher Stephanie , Sweeting Anna , Patel Anita , Fordham Richard
Published: January 2021

Aim

To estimate annual societal costs associated with chemotherapy for early breast cancer in the UK.

Design

Mixed methods: (a) an incidence-based cost-of-illness model was developed of indirect costs in patients with breast cancer and carers, and estimated from diagnosis through active treatment until death; (b) interviews with stakeholders were also undertaken to understand actual experiences and impacts of these costs.

Data sources

Model data were collated from relevant national data sources covering general population statistics, UK cancer registries, clinical guidelines and published literature, and patient survey data. Patient and staff views were collected through semistructured interviews.

Participants

Model: patients with early breast cancer receiving systemic anticancer therapy in the UK. Interviews were undertaken with women who had chemotherapy and medical practitioners involved in breast cancer care.

Results

Total costs of chemotherapy in the UK economy are over £248 million. Societal productivity losses amount to £141.4 million, which includes £3.2 million associated with premature mortality, short-term and long-term work absence (£28.6 million and £105 million, respectively). £3.4 million is associated with mortality losses from secondary malignancies due to adjuvant chemotherapy. A further £1.1 million in lost productivity arises from informal care provision. Out-of-pocket costs per round of chemotherapy account for £4.2 million, or an annual average of almost £1100 per patient. Interview findings support the cost burden modelled and also highlight the impact on cognitive function of patients and how this could increase the cost burden to patients, their families and wider society. In addition, estimated costs for carer emotional well-being are £82 million in lost quality of life.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy use carries significant indirect costs for society, as well as patients and their carers. These wider costs and societal perspective should be considered by commissioners to ensure chemotherapy is better targeted at those who most need it and to avoid placing unnecessary costs on patients, their caregivers and wider society.
Targeting immunogenic cancer cell death by photodynamic therapy: past, present and future
Authors: Alzeibak Razan , Mishchenko Tatiana A. , Shilyagina Natalia Y. , Balalaeva Irina V. , Vedunova Maria V. , Krysko Dmitri V.
Published: January 2021

The past decade has witnessed major breakthroughs in cancer immunotherapy. This development has been largely motivated by cancer cell evasion of immunological control and consequent tumor resistance to conventional therapies. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is considered one of the most promising ways to achieve total tumor cell elimination. It activates the T-cell adaptive immune response and results in the formation of long-term immunological memory. ICD can be triggered by many anticancer treatment modalities, including photodynamic therapy (PDT). In this review, we first discuss the role of PDT based on several classes of photosensitizers, including porphyrins and non-porphyrins, and critically evaluate their potential role in ICD induction. We emphasize the emerging trend of ICD induction by PDT in combination with nanotechnology, which represents third-generation photosensitizers and involves targeted induction of ICD by PDT. However, PDT also has some limitations, including the reduced efficiency of ICD induction in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we critically evaluate strategies for overcoming this limitation, which is essential for increasing PDT efficiency. In the final part, we suggest several areas for future research for personalized cancer immunotherapy, including strategies based on oxygen-boosted PDT and nanoparticles. In conclusion, the insights from the last several years increasingly support the idea that PDT is a powerful strategy for inducing ICD in experimental cancer therapy. However, most studies have focused on mouse models, but it is necessary to validate this strategy in clinical settings, which will be a challenging research area in the future.
Effects of muscle sympathetic burst size and burst pattern on time-to-peak sympathetic transduction
Authors: Nardone Massimo , Incognito Anthony V. , Teixeira André L. , Cacoilo Joseph A. , Vianna Lauro C. , Millar Philip J.
Published: January 2021

The current study evaluated the influence of resting muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) burst size and firing pattern on time-to-peak sympathetic transduction in 36 young healthy men and women. Participants underwent a 5–10 min resting baseline with beat-to-beat measures of heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and MSNA (microneurography). Cardiac output and total vascular conductance were calculated using the Modelflow algorithm. Sympathetic transduction was quantified using the burst-triggered signal averaging technique to examine the changes in MAP, cardiac output, and total vascular conductance for 15 cardiac cycles after each MSNA burst or non-burst. A stepwise increase in the peak MAP (i.e., sympathetic transduction) was observed throughout all quartiles of normalized MSNA burst area (quartile 1 (Q1): 1.7 ± 1.3 mm Hg; Q2: 2.1 ± 1.3 mm Hg; Q3: 2.6 ± 1.4 mm Hg; Q4: 3.5 ± 1.4 mm Hg; P < 0.01). The largest quartile of normalized MSNA burst area demonstrated faster time-to-peak MAP responses (5.7 ± 2.5 s) than both Q1 (10.1 ± 3.9 s, P < 0.01) and Q2 (9.3 ± 4.1 s, P < 0.01), as well as, faster time-to-peak cardiac output and time-to-nadir total vascular conductance compared with Q1 and Q2 (All P < 0.05). Larger clusters of sympathetic bursts (i.e., triplets and ≥ quadruplets) did not have increased time-to-peak transduction compared with singlets and doublet bursts across all MSNA quartiles. These results highlight intraindividual variability in the time-course of sympathetic transduction and reveal an intrinsic property of larger sympathetic bursts to increase time-to-peak sympathetic transduction in humans.

Novelty: Muscle sympathetic burst size can modulate time-to-peak sympathetic transduction in young healthy men and women. These observations appear independent of the pattern of sympathetic firing.
A study of $$\varLambda $$ and $$\bar{\varLambda }$$ polarization splitting by meson field in PICR hydrodynamic model
Authors: Xie Yilong , Chen Gang , Csernai Laszlo Pal
Published: January 2021

With the PICR hydrodynamic model, we study the polarization splitting between $$\varLambda $$
Λ
and $$\bar{\varLambda }$$

Λ

¯

at RHIC BES energy range, based on the meson field mechanism. Our results fit to the experimental data fairly well. Besides, two unexpected effect emerges: (1) the baryon density gradient has non-trivial and negative contribution to the polarization splitting; (2) for 7.7 GeV Au+Au collisions within the centrality range of 20–50%, the polarization splitting surprisingly increases with the centrality decreases. The second effect might help to explain the significant signal of polarization splitting measured in STAR’s Au+Au 7.7 Gev collisions.
Two quantum private query protocols based on Bell states and single photons
Authors: Liu Dong-Mei , Yan Li-Li , Chang Yan , Zhang Shi-Bin , Cao Tian
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes two quantum privacy query protocols. In the single vector sub-privacy query of protocol 1, it is proposed for the first time to distinguish different measurement results by publishing 2 bits of classic information. In the protocol, the database Bob selects the Z base and the Bell base to measure the particles sent by Alice according to the key value of the encrypted database and publishes 2 bits of classic information based on the measurement results. The user Alice infers the key value of the encrypted database through these two pieces of classic information. In the two-way quantum privacy query of protocol 2, the database Bob measures the particles sent back by Alice, converts the measurement result into a key value of length 3, and prepares a particle that is the same as the measurement result and sends it back to Alice. Alice returns the measurement of particles can infer a set of data encryption keys, and the length of each key is 3 bits. Users in the two protocols proposed in the article can obtain the query key with a probability of 1/4. As the key length increases, the number of query bits in protocol 2 decreases, but the probability of execution failure increases. But protocol 2 has a higher quantum efficiency. Both protocols can guarantee the privacy of users and databases.
Extraction of new optical solitons and MI analysis to three coupled Gross–Pitaevskii system in the spinor Bose–Einstein condensate
Authors: Sulaiman Tukur Abdulkadir , Younas Usman , Yusuf Abdullahi , Younis Muhammad , Bilal Muhammad , Shafqat-Ur-Rehman
Published: January 2021

This article investigates the optical solitons to the three coupled Gross–Pitaevskii (GP) system (also called the non-linear Schrödinger (NLS) equation), which describes the [Formula: see text] spinor Bose–Einstein condensate, with [Formula: see text] denoting the atom’s spin. The solutions are expressed in the form of hyperbolic function solutions that have different physical meanings such that the hyperbolic tangent appears in the calculation and rapidity of special relativity while, the hyperbolic cotangent arises in the Langevin function for magnetic polarization, the hyperbolic secant arises in the profile of a laminar jet. The various kinds of soliton solutions in single and combined form like bright, dark, singular as well as bright-dark and singular in the mixed form are also extracted by the mean of extended sinh-Gordon equation expansion method. By using the appropriate values of the involved parameters, 3D, 2D and their corresponding contour graphs are sketched for physical movement of the attained results. We also discuss the modulation instability (MI) analysis of the governing model. The constraint conditions for the existence of soliton solutions are also mentioned. The calculated work and earned results show the power, effectiveness, and the simplicity of applied method to discuss the soliton solutions as the contrast with other analytical schemes. The main outcome of the proposed technique is that we have succeeded in a single move to get and organize various types of new solutions.
Research on optical properties of cardiovascular tissues based on OCT data
Authors: Qin Na , Liu Yana , Huang Lin , Xin Yi , Zhang Xiao , Hu Xiaoming , Li Qin
Published: January 2021

As a high-resolution optical imaging technology, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has been widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. It has played an important role in the detection and identification of atherosclerotic plaques and has significant advantages. In this paper, we realized to extract the optical characteristic parameters of the target sample based on the OCT data by establishing optical transmission models conforming to the OCT principle. The optical phantoms and coronary artery of domestic pig were used as research samples to study the difference between the optical properties of the cardiovascular tissues. It can provide a basic method for further study of optical characteristic parameters of atherosclerotic plaques, and also lay a foundation for realizing the quantitative evaluation of atherosclerotic plaques with multiple optical characteristic parameters in the future.
Introduction: geoethics goes beyond the geoscience profession
Authors: Di Capua Giuseppe , Bobrowsky Peter T. , Kieffer Susan W. , Palinkas Cindy
Published: January 2021

This is the second volume focused on geoethics published as a Special Publication of the Geological Society of London, a significant step forward in which authors address the maturation of geoethics, a maturity that has strengthened its theoretical foundations in recent years and increased the insight of its reflections. The field of geoethics is now ready to be introduced outside the geoscience community as a logical platform for global ethics that addresses anthropogenic changes. What is clear is that geoethics has a distinction in the geoscientific community for discussing the ethical, social and cultural implications of geoscience knowledge, research, practice and education, as well as communication. This provides a common ground for integrating ideas, experiences and proposals on how geosciences can provide additional services to society, in order to improve the way humans interact responsibly with the Earth system. This book provides new messages to geoscientists, social scientists, intellectuals, law- and decision-makers, and laypeople. Motivations and actions for facing global anthropogenic changes and their intense impacts on the planet need to be governed by an ethical framework capable of merging a solid conceptual structure with pragmatic approaches based on geoscientific knowledge. This philosophy defines geoethics.
The Role of Trehalose 6-Phosphate (Tre6P) in Plant Metabolism and Development
Authors: Fichtner Franziska , Lunn John Edward
Published: January 2021

Trehalose 6-phosphate (Tre6P) has a dual function as a signal and homeostatic regulator of sucrose levels in plants. In source leaves, Tre6P regulates the production of sucrose to balance supply with demand for sucrose from growing sink organs. As a signal of sucrose availability, Tre6P influences developmental decisions that will affect future demand for sucrose, such as flowering, embryogenesis, and shoot branching, and links the growth of sink organs to sucrose supply. This involves complex interactions with SUCROSE-NON-FERMENTING1-RELATED KINASE1 that are not yet fully understood. Tre6P synthase, the enzyme that makes Tre6P, plays a key role in the nexus between sucrose and Tre6P, operating in the phloem-loading zone of leaves and potentially generating systemic signals for source-sink coordination. Many plants have large and diverse families of Tre6P phosphatase enzymes that dephosphorylate Tre6P, some of which have noncatalytic functions in plant development.
Recent Advances and Future Perspectives in Cotton Research
Authors: Huang Gai , Huang Jin-Quan , Chen Xiao-Ya , Zhu Yu-Xian
Published: January 2021

Cotton is not only the world's most important natural fiber crop, but it is also an ideal system in which to study genome evolution, polyploidization, and cell elongation. With the assembly of five different cotton genomes, a cotton-specific whole-genome duplication with an allopolyploidization process that combined the A- and D-genomes became evident. All existing A-genomes seemed to originate from the A0-genome as a common ancestor, and several transposable element bursts contributed to A-genome size expansion and speciation. The ethylene production pathway is shown to regulate fiber elongation. A tip-biased diffuse growth mode and several regulatory mechanisms, including plant hormones, transcription factors, and epigenetic modifications, are involved in fiber development. Finally, we describe the involvement of the gossypol biosynthetic pathway in the manipulation of herbivorous insects, the role of GoPGF in gland formation, and host-induced gene silencing for pest and disease control. These new genes, modules, and pathways will accelerate the genetic improvement of cotton.
Current Solutions and Future Trends for Robotic Prosthetic Hands
Authors: Mendez Vincent , Iberite Francesco , Shokur Solaiman , Micera Silvestro
Published: January 2021

The desire for functional replacement of a missing hand is an ancient one. Historically, humans have replaced a missing limb with a prosthesis for cosmetic, vocational, or personal autonomy reasons. The hand is a powerful tool, and its loss causes severe physical and often mental debilitation. Technological advancements have allowed the development of increasingly effective artificial hands, which can improve the quality of life of people who suffered a hand amputation. Here, we review the state of the art of robotic prosthetic hands (RPHs), with particular attention to the potential and current limits of their main building blocks: the hand itself, approaches to decoding voluntary commands and controlling the hand, and systems and methods for providing sensory feedback to the user. We also briefly describe existing approaches to characterizing the performance of subjects using RPHs for grasping tasks and provide perspectives on the future of different components and the overall field of RPH development.
Current Concepts and Advances in Graft-Versus-Host Disease Immunology
Authors: Hill Geoffrey R. , Betts Brian C. , Tkachev Victor , Kean Leslie S. , Blazar Bruce R.
Published: January 2021

Worldwide, each year over 30,000 patients undergo an allogeneic hema-topoietic stem cell transplantation with the intent to cure high-risk hematologic malignancy, immunodeficiency, metabolic disease, or a life-threatening bone marrow failure syndrome. Despite substantial advances in donor selection and conditioning regimens and greater availability of allograft sources, transplant recipients still endure the morbidity and mortality of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Herein, we identify key aspects of acute and chronic GVHD pathophysiology, including host/donor cell effectors, gut dysbiosis, immune system and cytokine imbalance, and the interface between inflammation and tissue fibrosis. In particular, we also summarize the translational application of this heightened understanding of immune dysregulation in the design of novel therapies to prevent and treat GVHD.
Atomic Force Microscopy: An Emerging Tool in Measuring the Phase State and Surface Tension of Individual Aerosol Particles
Authors: Lee Hansol D. , Tivanski Alexei V.
Published: January 2021

Atmospheric aerosols are suspended particulate matter of varying composition, size, and mixing state. Challenges remain in understanding the impact of aerosols on the climate, atmosphere, and human health. The effect of aerosols depends on their physicochemical properties, such as their hygroscopicity, phase state, and surface tension. These properties are dynamic with respect to the highly variable relative humidity and temperature of the atmosphere. Thus, experimental approaches that permit the measurement of these dynamic properties are required. Such measurements also need to be performed on individual, submicrometer-, and supermicrometer-sized aerosol particles, as individual atmospheric particles from the same source can exhibit great variability in their form and function. In this context, this review focuses on the recent emergence of atomic force microscopy as an experimental tool in physical, analytical, and atmospheric chemistry that enables such measurements. Remaining challenges are noted and suggestions for future studies are offered.
Congenital ablation of Tacr2 reveals overlapping and redundant roles of NK2R signaling in the control of reproductive axis
Authors: Torres Encarnacion , Velasco Inmaculada , Franssen Delphine , Heras Violeta , Gaytan Francisco , Leon Silvia , Navarro Victor M. , Pineda Rafael , Candenas M. Luz , Romero-Ruiz Antonio , Tena-Sempere Manuel
Published: January 2021

We have explored here the impact of congenital ablation of the gene ( Tacr2) encoding the tachykinin receptor, NK2R, in terms of neuroendocrine control of the reproductive axis, using a novel Tacr2 KO mouse line. Our data support a modest, albeit detectable, role of NK2R in the control of the gonadotropic axis, with partially overlapping and redundant functions with other tachykinin receptors.
Investigating the complex interplay between genotype and high-fat-diet feeding in the lactating mammary gland using the Tph1 and Ldlr knockout models
Authors: Cheng Adrienne A. , Li Wenli , Walker Teresa M. , Silvers Caylee , Arendt Lisa M. , Hernandez Laura L.
Published: January 2021

We have created a novel mouse model that is focused on understanding the intersection of diet and genotype on mammary gland function during lactation.
Activation of the RAS contributes to peritoneal fibrosis via dysregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor
Authors: Liu Jing , Feng Yuan , Li Nan , Shao Qiu-Yuan , Zhang Qing-Yan , Sun Cheng , Xu Peng-Fei , Jiang Chun-Ming
Published: January 2021

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is characterized by progressive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs) during long-term use of high glucose (HG)-based dialysates. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been shown to be associated with PF. The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanism of the RAS in HG-induced PF. We treated C57BL/6 mice and a human PMC line with HG to induce a PF model and to stimulate ECM accumulation, respectively. RAS activity was blocked using valsartan or angiotensin II (ANGII) type 1 receptor siRNA. The major findings were as follows. First, mice in the HG group exhibited increased collagen deposition and expression of ECM proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I in the peritoneum. Consistent with the in vivo data, HG upregulated α-SMA expression in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Second, HG stimulation led to RAS activation in HPMCs, and inactivation of RAS decreased the expression of ECM proteins in vivo and in vitro, even during HG stimulation. Finally, RAS-mediated ECM production was associated with lipid accumulation in HPMCs and depended on the dysregulation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) pathway. HG-stimulated HPMCs showed increased coexpression of LDLr and α-SMA, whereas blockade of RAS activity reversed the effect. Furthermore, inhibition of LDLr signaling decreased α-SMA and collagen type I expression in HPMCs when treated with HG and ANG II. In conclusion, increased intracellular RAS activity impaired lipid homeostasis and induced ECM accumulation in HPMCs by disrupting the LDLr pathway, which contributed to PF.
Activation of TGR5 restores AQP2 expression via the HIF pathway in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Han Mengke , Li Suchun , Xie Haixia , Liu Qiaojuan , Wang Ani , Hu Shan , Zhao Xiaoduo , Kong Yonglun , Wang Weidong , Li Chunling
Published: January 2021

Stimulation of the membrane G protein-coupled bile acid receptor TGR5 by lithocholic acid (LCA) reduced polyuria in rats with renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. LCA increased abundance of aquaporin-2 (AQP2) protein and upregulated hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α protein expression in association with decreased NF-κB p65 and IL-1β. After I/R, mice with tgr5 gene deficiency exhibited more severe decreases in AQP2 and HIF-1α protein abundance and inflammatory responses. TGR5 activation exhibits a protective role in acute renal injury induced by I/R.
Insulin Receptor Substrate p53 Ameliorates High‐Glucose‐Induced Activation of NF‐κB and Impaired Mobility of HUVECs
Authors: Liu Fen , Chen Yubin , Zhao Shi , Li Mei , Luo Fanyan , Tang Can-e
Published: January 2021

Diabetes‐related macrovascular and microvascular complications lead to poor prognosis. Insulin receptor substrate p53 (IRSp53) is known to act as a substrate for the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, but its role in endothelial dysfunction remains unclear. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with D‐glucose at different concentrations and a streptozocin‐induced rat diabetes mellitus (DM) model were used to investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on the expression levels of IRSp53 and galectin‐3 (gal‐3) and the inflammatory state and mobility of HUVECs. Thereafter, IRSp53‐overexpressing HUVECs and IRSp53‐knockdown HUVECs were established using IRSp53‐overexpressing lentivirus or IRSp53‐siRNA to explore the role of IRSp53 in the HUVEC inflammatory state and HUVEC mobility. D‐glucose at high concentration (HG) and hyperglycemia were found to induce downregulation of IRSp53 and upregulation of gal‐3 in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with HG resulted in activation of NF‐κB in HUVECs and impaired HUVEC mobility. Insulin restored HG‐induced changes in the expression levels of IRSp53 and gal‐3 in HUVECs and protected the cells from NF‐κB activation and impaired mobility. Overexpression of IRSp53 inhibited the activation of NF‐κB in HUVECs and strengthened HUVEC migration. Knockdown of IRSp53 facilitated the activation of NF‐κB in HUVECs and decreased HUVEC migration. However, neither overexpression nor knockdown of IRSp53 altered the effects of insulin on HG‐induced detrimental changes in HUVECs. HG and hyperglycemia resulted in downregulation of IRSp53 in vitro and in vivo. IRSp53 is concluded to inhibit the activation of NF‐κB in HUVECs and to strengthen HUVEC migration.
Low‐ versus High‐Chloride Content Intravenous Solutions for Perioperative Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Song Xuan , Wang Huairong , Liu Xinyan , Guo Xiuyan , Yu Baiqing , Zhang Nana
Published: January 2021

Background. Studies have shown complications of normal saline infusion because of its high‐chloride content. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to explore whether the use of low‐ versus high‐chloride solutions benefited the unselected and specifically perioperative patients and was associated with different outcomes. Methods. Studies on the use of low‐ versus high‐chloride content intravenous solutions for perioperative patients, published up to July 15, 2019, were systematically reviewed, and primary and secondary outcomes were quantitatively summarized. Results. A total of 14 eligible randomized controlled trials with 943 perioperative patients were included. Five studies reported all‐cause mortality, and eight studies provided detailed data on renal replacement therapy (RRT). The pooled result suggested no statistically significant difference in the effect of low‐ versus high‐chloride solutions on all‐cause mortality (risk ratio (RR) = 1.39; 95%confidence interval (CI) = 0.23–8.26) and RRT (RR = 1.05; 95%CI = 0.63–1.76). The pooled results on acute kidney injury (AKI) and the use of allogenic blood transfusion (P > 0.05) were similar. Conclusion. Among specific perioperative patients, the use of low‐ versus high‐chloride content intravenous solutions did not reduce the all‐cause mortality, risk of severe AKI, or rate of RRT use. Further large randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm or refute this finding.
miR‐296‐5p Inhibits the Secretion of Pulmonary Surfactants in Pulmonary Epithelial Cells via the Downregulation of Wnt7b/β‐Catenin Signaling
Authors: Zhang Ying-Hui , Chen Ai-Ling , Yu Ren-Qiang , Jia Bei-Bei , Ye Dan-Ni , Wang Min , Mei Ying-Zi , Fang Guang-Dong , Jiang Shan-Yu , Zhou Qin , Zhang Bing
Published: January 2021

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) is a common disease that occurs in premature infants. However, the mechanisms underlying the disease remain unclear. microRNAs (miRNAs) have been indicated to play a crucial role in the development of NRDS. In this study, we aimed to explore the regulatory mechanisms of miR‐296‐5p in NRDS. The expression levels of miR‐296‐5p in preterm infants with NRDS were determined using quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). A549 cells were transfected with lentiviral vectors encoding miR‐296‐5p, and the transfection efficiency was determined using RT‐qPCR. Flow cytometry and CCK8 assay were performed to measure apoptosis and proliferation of A549 cells, respectively. The protein levels of pulmonary surfactant SP‐A (SFTPA1), SP‐B, Wnt7b, and β‐catenin were measured using western blotting. We demonstrated an upregulation of miR‐296‐5p in NRDS. The miR‐296‐5p was successfully overexpressed in A549 cells via lentivirus transfection, and the upregulation of miR‐296‐5p inhibited cell proliferation and secretion of SP‐A and SP‐B and also induced downregulation of the Wnt7b/β‐catenin in vitro. Therefore, miR‐296‐5p inhibits cell proliferation and secretion of pulmonary surfactants in A549 cells via downregulation of Wnt7b/β‐catenin signaling.