bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Copolymers Polyethyleneimine‐co‐Polyphenylalanine as Gene and Drug Codelivery Carrier
Authors: Liu Chong , Guo Zhaopei , Feng Huimin , Lin Lin , Cui Yuan , Li Yanhui , Tian Huayu
Published: March 2021

In this study, a series of hyperbranched copolymers polyethyleneimine‐co‐polyphenylalanine (PEI‐co‐PPhe) are synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization with phenylalanine‐N‐carboxyanhydride as monomer and PEI‐25k as initiator, using as a gene and drug codelivery carrier. Among them, PEI‐co‐PPhe (1:170) is selected out from transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity tests. Then, doxorubicin‐cis‐aconitic anhydride (CAD) and BCl2‐shRNA (as a therapeutic gene) are coloaded into the PEI‐co‐PPhe carrier to form PEI‐co‐PPhe/Bcl2‐shRNA/CAD complexes as a codeliver system. When the mass ratio of PEI‐co‐PPhe:Bcl2‐shRNA:CAD is 5:1:1, the codeliver system has the most obvious synergistic therapeutic effect against B16F10 cells. Confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscope and flow cytometry, compared with drug and gene alone, the codeliver complexes can be endocytosed into B16F10 cells efficiently. As a result, the appropriate length of PPhe grafted on PEI will improve the gene transfer efficiency and decrease cytotoxicity, as well as effective codelivery of gene and drug into cancer cells to be a promising codelivery carrier for cancer therapy.
Evaluation and Control of the Molar Mass Bimodality and Properties of Polyethylene from Novel Chromocene‐Based Dual Sites Catalysts
Authors: Yao Jiabin , Wang Kai , He Xuelian , Liu Boping
Published: March 2021

Polyethylene (PE) with bimodal molecular weight distribution (MWD) has drawn attention from researchers because of its great processability and outstanding mechanical properties. Bimodal PE is successfully prepared by novel SiO2‐supported chromocene (S‐9)/chromium (CrOX) and chromocene (S‐9)/vanadium (V) dual sites catalysts in a single reactor. The molar mass bimodality, crystalline properties, and mechanical properties of the bimodal PE prepared by S‐9/CrOX catalysts are controllable through adjusting the loading of active centers. Those are also adjustable by using S‐9/V catalysts under the condition of adding 0.1 MPa hydrogen. Compared with CrOX/SiO2, 4CrOX4S9 shows an increase in tensile strength and Young's modulus by 38% and 17%, respectively. With the increase in high MW fraction, tensile strength, and Young's modulus both increase. S‐9/CrOX catalysts combining the advantages of two active centers show better tensile properties. S‐9/V catalysts have a similar trend in tensile properties. The complex viscosity, elastic modulus, and loss modulus increase with the growth in MW and the thickness of lamellae. Furthermore, the high and low MW fraction has good compatibility for both dual sites catalysts, and their resistance to slow crack growth is most likely to reach the standards for PE100 and PE100RC and even exceed.
Rapid Self‐Expansion Behavior of the PMMA‐Based Bone Cement with P(MMA‐AA)‐GO Nano‐Units
Authors: Chen Lei , Tang Yufei , Zhao Kang , Liu Jiaxin , Jiang Xiashu , Sun Yani , Wu Zixiang
Published: March 2021

The volume shrinkage of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is typically addressed by incorporating additives into the matrix. However, the maximum water absorption and swelling capacity of the composite bone cement are not sufficiently improved due to its rapid solidification. In this work, poly(methyl methacrylate‐acrylic acid)‐grafted graphene oxide [P(MMA‐AA)‐GO] nano‐units with the microsphere‐lamellar structure are synthesized, and then P(MMA‐AA)‐GO bone cement (PGBC) is fabricated. The rate of absorption and swelling of PGBC are significantly promoted by the microsphere–lamellar structure of P(MMA‐AA)‐GO nano‐units, achieving maximum absorption and swelling capacity of PGBC before its solidification. PGBC 4 exhibits the maximum equilibrium simulate body fluid (SBF) absorption ratio and equilibrium swelling ratio of 90.2% ± 1.7% and 92.5% ± 4.5%, respectively. Interestingly, the maximum compression strength of the composite before immersion is also observed in PGBC 4 with a value of 77.2 ± 1.1 MPa. The enhanced compression strength of PGBC overcomes the bottleneck of the decreased compression strength resulting from the enhanced absorption behavior. Therefore, PGBC with rapid self‐expansion behavior and improved mechanical properties can not only reduce the injection volume to avoid leakage in the clinic but also provide sufficient mechanical support, which has promising application potential in the clinical setting.
General decay and blow‐up results for a nonlinear pseudoparabolic equation with Robin–Dirichlet conditions
Authors: Ngoc Le Thi Phuong , Nhan Nguyen Huu , Long Nguyen Thanh
Published: March 2021

This paper is devoted to the study of a nonlinear pseudoparabolic equation in an annular with Robin–Dirichlet conditions. At first, by applying the standard Faedo–Galerkin method, we prove existence and uniqueness results. Next, using concavity method, we prove blow‐up results for solutions when the initial energy is nonnegative or negative, then we also establish the lifespan for the equation via finding the upper bound and the lower bound for the blow‐up times. Finally, we give a sufficient condition for the global existence and decay of weak solutions.
Fractional synchronization involving fractional derivatives with nonsingular kernels: Application to chaotic systems
Authors: Coronel‐Escamilla A. , Gómez‐Aguilar J.F. , Torres‐Jiménez J. , Mousa A.A. , Elagan S.K.
Published: March 2021

We present a novel master‐slave fractional synchronization in chaotic systems by using fractional derivatives with nonlocal and nonsingular kernel. The master system is the fractional‐order chaotic system, and then, we designed a fractional‐order high gain observer, which is the slave system, based on the chaotic system model to achieve the synchronization. We used three different oscillator systems, a novel Chen‐Burke‐Shaw chaotic attractor, a novel fractional‐order chaotic system, and the fractional‐order model of a simple autonomous Jerk circuit. Our research followed to test the performance of the fractional synchronization. We use two performance indices, the integral of the square error (ISE) and the integral of the square error multiplied by time (ITSE). We showed that by using the fractional‐order approach, we can reduce the values on the ISE and ITSE indices; hence, we guaranteed a full synchronization between the master and slave system. Our analysis shows that when using fractional derivatives with variable order, the ISE and ITSE indices have a lower value than when using the classical derivatives. We used the definition of Atangana‐Baleanu‐Caputo and Liouville‐Caputo derivatives for the three examples mentioned in this work. We numerically solved the equations using the Adams method. Our results show that when using the fractional‐order approach, the ISE and ITSE indices are lower than the integer‐order case.
Recommendations on the practice of calibration, dosimetry, and quality assurance for gamma stereotactic radiosurgery: Report of AAPM Task Group 178
Authors: Petti Paula L. , Rivard Mark J. , Alvarez Paola E. , Bednarz Greg , Daniel Bourland J. , DeWerd Larry A. , Drzymala Robert E. , Johansson Jonas , Kunugi Keith , Ma Lijun , Meltsner Sheridan G. , Neyman Gennady , Seuntjens Jan P. , Shiu Almon S. , Goetsch Steven J.
Published: March 2021

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) formed Task Group 178 (TG‐178) to perform the following tasks: review in‐phantom and in‐air calibration protocols for gamma stereotactic radiosurgery (GSR), suggest a dose rate calibration protocol that can be successfully utilized with all gamma stereotactic radiosurgery (GSR) devices, and update quality assurance (QA) protocols in TG‐42 (AAPM Report 54, 1995) for static GSR devices. The TG‐178 report recommends a GSR dose rate calibration formalism and provides tabulated data to implement it for ionization chambers commonly used in GSR dosimetry. The report also describes routine mechanical, dosimetric, and safety checks for GSR devices, and provides treatment process quality assurance recommendations. Sample worksheets, checklists, and practical suggestions regarding some QA procedures are given in appendices. The overall goal of the report is to make recommendations that help standardize GSR physics practices and promote the safe implementation of GSR technologies.
Developing and validating the Caesarean risk assessment nomogram and comparing the effect of cervical ripening balloon, evening primrose oil and misoprostol on childbirth outcomes in term pregnancies: A study protocol
Authors: Hemmatzadeh Shahla , Abbasalizadeh Fatemeh , Mohammad‐Alizadeh‐Charandabi Sakineh , Asghari Jafarabady Mohammad , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: March 2021

Aim

To develop and validate the nomogram for risk estimation of Caesarean delivery and to compare the effect of cervical ripening balloon, evening primrose oil (EPO) and misoprostol on Bishop Score and duration of the first stage of labour.

Design

The first phase is a prospective study, and the second phase is a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

In the first phase, the nomogram will be developed and validated over 300 participants, and in the second phase, the 90 participants will be allocated to three groups: vaginal 25mcg misoprostol, vaginal 4000mg EPO and double‐balloon catheter, through block randomization method. The Bishop score will be evaluated every 4 hr, and if required the same dose will be repeated. Maximum waiting time for balloon is 12 hr if not effective, the catheter will be removed, and other interventions will be done according to guidelines.

Discussion

The nomogram will help informed decision‐making for women undergoing an induction with an unfavourable cervix and introducing effective low‐complication methods of labour induction can improve the pregnancy outcomes.
Recent research shows dismal outcome for community college enrollment after COVID‐19
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2021

It's no secret that the pandemic has had far‐ranging and potentially devastating effects on higher education. Recent research has indicated that community colleges have been especially hit hard by the pandemic, causing drops in enrollment as well as drops in college persistence.
Exploring individual predictors of variation in public awareness of expressive and instrumental nonprofit brands
Authors: Hamidullah Madinah F. , Yun Jung Ah (Claire) , McDougle Lindsey M. , Shon Jongmin , Yang Hyuk , Davis Ashley
Published: March 2021

Expressive and instrumental functions provide a way to classify activities that take place in the nonprofit sector. These functions also provide a way to better understand individual's philanthropic involvement with certain types of nonprofit organizations. Despite the usefulness of these classifications, only a few studies have explored demographic, social, and ideological differences in individuals' philanthropic involvement along expressive and instrumental dimensions; and, no studies have explored differences in public awareness of nonprofits along these dimensions. Such awareness, though, could likely be an important precursor to an individual's philanthropic involvement. Thus, the purpose of this study is to explore whether variables known to be associated with variation in philanthropic involvement are also associated with variation in awareness of, what we categorize as, expressive and instrumental nonprofit brands. Using data from a survey of public awareness of, and attitudes toward, nonprofit organizations in San Diego County (n = 1002), our findings show that individuals are more aware of instrumental nonprofit brands than they are of expressive nonprofit brands. However, there are important individual differences to consider. We discuss the theoretical relevance of our findings and offer several practical recommendations for nonprofit administrators.
Guaranteed cost control of fractional‐order linear uncertain systems with time‐varying delay
Authors: Chen Liping , Wu Ranchao , Yuan Liguo , Yin Lisheng , Chen YangQuan , Xu Shuiqing
Published: March 2021

This article is concerned with the guaranteed cost control problem for a class of fractional‐order (FO) uncertain delayed linear systems with norm‐bounded time‐varying parametric uncertainty. Based on whether the states are available or not, guaranteed‐cost state‐based feedback stabilization and guaranteed‐cost observer‐based feedback stabilization for such system are addressed, respectively. By employing the linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach and FO Razumikhin theorem, two delay‐independent guaranteed cost controller design methods and their guaranteed costs are first formulated, respectively, in which sufficient conditions of the state feedback and observer gains are presented in form of LMI. Two numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical formulation.
Data‐driven (Bilinear) identification and reduction
Authors: Karachalios Dimitrios S. , Gosea Ion Victor , Antoulas Athanasios C.
Published: March 2021

Identifying dynamical systems from measured data is an important step towards accurate modeling and control. Model order reduction (MOR) constitutes a class of methods that can be used to replace large, complex models of dynamical processes with simpler, smaller models. The reduced‐order models (ROMs) can be then used for further tasks such as control, design, and simulation. One typical approach for projection‐based model reduction for both linear and nonlinear dynamical systems is by employing interpolation. Projection‐based methods require access to the internal dynamics of the system which is not always available. The aim here is to compute ROMs without having access to the internal dynamics, by means of a realization independent method. The proposed methodology will fall into the broad category of data‐driven approaches. The method under consideration, which will be referred to as the Loewner framework (LF), was originally introduced by the third author. Based on data, LF identifies state‐space models in a direct way. In the original setup, the framework relies on compressing the full data set to extract dominant features and, at the same time, to eliminate the inherent redundancies. In the broader class of nonlinear control systems, the LF has been already extended to certain classes with a special structure such as quadratic or bilinear systems. The LF in combination with Volterra series‐(VS) offers a non‐intrusive approximation method that is capable of identifying bilinear models from input‐output time‐domain measurements. This method uses harmonic inputs which establish a natural way for data acquisition. The Fourier transform associates these measurements with the derived generalized frequency response functions GFRFs and the LF makes the connection with system theory. In the linear case, the LF associates the so‐called S‐parameters with the linear transfer function by interpolating in the frequency domain. The goal of the proposed method is to extend identification to the case of bilinear systems from time‐domain measurements and to approximate other general nonlinear systems by means of the Carleman bilinearizarion scheme. By identifying the linear contribution with the LF, a considerable reduction is achieved by means of the SVD. The fitted linear system has the same McMillan degree as the original linear system. Then, the performance of the linear model is improved by augmenting a special nonlinear structure. In a nutshell, we learn reduced‐dimension bilinear models directly from a potentially large‐scale system that is simulated/sampled in the time domain. This is done by fitting first a linear model, and afterwards, by fitting the corresponding bilinear operator which will improve the fitting performance.
Predicting near optimal interpolation points for parametric model order reduction using regression models
Authors: Aumann Quirin , Müller Gerhard
Published: March 2021

The design of vibro‐acoustic systems, such as vehicle interiors, regarding optimal vibrational or sound radiation properties requires the solution of many numerical models under varying parameters, as often material or geometric uncertainties have to be considered. Vibro‐acoustic systems are typically large and numerically expensive to solve, so it is desirable to use an efficient parametrized surrogate model for optimization tasks. High quality reduced models of non‐parametric systems can be computed by projection, given a set of optimal expansion points. However, finding a set of optimal expansion points can be computationally expensive and each set is valid for a specific parameter realization only. The method presented in this contribution learns the map between a model's parameter realizations and the corresponding sets of expansion points using data‐driven methods. Queried with an unknown set of parameters, the learned model returns a set of expansion points which are used to compute the corresponding reduced model efficiently. Numerical experiments on two vibro‐acoustic models of different complexity are performed and three data driven regression methods are evaluated: multivariate polynomial regression, k‐nearest neighbors, and support vector regression. Especially k‐nearest neighbors regression yields accurate results for different types of physical models while being computationally inexpensive to fit.
Data‐driven modeling from noisy measurements
Authors: Gosea Ion Victor , Zhang Qiang , Antoulas Athanasios C.
Published: March 2021

The scope of this contribution is to present some recent results on how interpolation‐based data‐driven methods such as

The Loewner framework [1]

The AAA algorithm [2]

can handle noisy data sets. More precisely, it will be assumed that the input‐output measurements used in these methods, i.e., transfer function evaluations, are corrupted by additive Gaussian noise.

The notion of “sensitivity to noise” is introduced and it is used to understand how the location of measurement points affects the “quality” of reduced order models. For example, models that have poles with high sensitivity are hence deemed prohibited since even small perturbations could cause an unwanted behavior (such as instability). Moreover, we show how different data splitting techniques can influence the sensitivity values. This is a crucial step in the Loewner framework; we present some illustrative examples that include the effects of splitting the data in the “wrong” or in the “right” way.

Finally, some perspectives for the future: we would like to employ statistics and machine learning techniques in order to avoid “overfitting”. More precisely, it is said that a model that has learned the noise instead of the true signal is considered an “overfit” because it fits the given noisy dataset but has a poor fit with other new datasets. We present some possible ways to avoid “overfitting” for the methods under consideration.
Comparative evaluation study of polycomplex carriers based on Eudragit® EPO/S100 copolymers prepared in different media
Authors: Bukhovets Aleksandra V. , Sitenkov Alexander Y. , Moustafine Rouslan I.
Published: March 2021

Interpolymer complexes (IPC) Eudragit® EPO/S100 were prepared in different media (water pH of 7.0 and ethanol). According to the elemental analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and thermal analysis data, IPC prepared in aqueous media (denoted as interpolyelectrolyte complexes—IPECs) is stabilized predominantly by ionic intermacromolecular bonds and has a composition close to equimolar. However, polycomplexes formed in nonaqueous (ethanol) media (denoted as IPC) are stabilized by both hydrogen and ionic bonds and characterized by an almost twofold excess of Eudragit® S100. All samples do not include free copolymer domains. IPECs and IPCs have different behavior in the buffer media mimicking the gastrointestinal tract. Matrices of IPECs are characterized by the surface erosion and pH‐independent swelling profiles with low values of a swelling degree. Matrices of the IPCs swell significantly in the buffer media with pH 1.2, 5.8, and 6.8 with subsequent decrease in the swelling degree due to the surface erosion. According to the assessment of release of the model active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), IPECs are prospective carriers for sustained delivery of II class Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) drug (diclofenac sodium). At the same time, IPCs provide sustained release of the II class BCS and prolonged release of the I class BCS drug (theophylline).
Evaluation of muscle strength following peripheral nerve surgery: A scoping review
Authors: McGillivray Meghan K. , Haldane Chloe , Doherty Christopher , Berger Michael J.
Published: March 2021

Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) can result in devastating loss of function, often with poor long‐term prognosis. Increased use of peripheral nerve surgical techniques (eg, nerve transfer, nerve grafting, and nerve repair) has resulted in improved muscle strength and other functional outcomes in patients with PNI. Muscle strength has largely been evaluated with the British Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. MRC is convenient to use in clinical settings, but more robust measures of muscle function are necessary to fully elucidate patient recovery. This scoping review aims to examine alternative instruments used to assess muscle function in studies of peripheral nerve surgery for PNI of the upper and lower limbs. A scoping review was conducted using Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PubMed databases in May and December of 2020, yielding a total of 20 studies pertaining to the review question. Studies pertaining to handheld dynamometry, grip and pinch dynamometry, Rotterdam Intrinsic Hand Myometers, isokinetic dynamometry, ultrasonography, and electromyography were reviewed. We provide a synopsis of each method and current clinical applications and discuss potential benefits, disadvantages, and areas of future research.
A formalized transition program for cystic fibrosis: A 10‐year retrospective analysis of 97 patients in Lyon
Authors: Bourgeois Gaelle , Magne Fanny , Nove Josserand Raphaele , Durupt Stephane , Durieu Isabelle , Reix Philippe , Reynaud Quitterie
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The prognosis of people diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) has dramatically improved over the past decade in France, largely due to advances in CF care management, including an emphasis on chronic maintenance medications. Currently, the majority of French CF patients are adults, which means that they went through a transition process from receiving care at a pediatric CF center to receiving care at an adult CF center. To determine the impact of the transfer on clinical evolution, we report the transition procedure of our CF center in Lyon.

Materials and Methods

From January 2006 to December 2016, 97 CF patients underwent a standardized process of transitioning from the pediatric to the adult CF center in Lyon. We compared the clinical evolution of these patients during three periods, starting the year before transition and ending the year after transition. Clinical data taken into account were forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1 in liters), body mass index (BMI in kg/m2), pulmonary colonization, number of antibiotic courses, number of days of hospitalization per year, and outpatient visits per year.

Results

No significant differences were observed between respiratory and nutritional status, respiratory microbiome, number of antibiotic courses, or number of hospitalizations or visits when comparing the threeperiods of observation around transition (the year before, the first year after, and the second year after transfer).

Conclusion

The standardized transition procedure used in Lyon is associated with the clinical stability of our CF patients.
Evaluation of Corrosion Resistance of Thin Films Formed on AISI 316L Steel by Plasma Using Hastelloy as Cathodic Cage
Authors: Monção Renan Matos , Júnior Edgar Alves Araújo , Bandeira Rafael Marinho , de Abreu Lima Caíque Diego , da Luz Lima Cleânio , Feitor Michelle Cequeira , de Carvalho Costa Thércio Henrique , de Sousa Rômulo Ribeiro Magalhães
Published: March 2021

Herein, the use of Hastelloy C‐276 as a cathodic cage for the deposition of thin films on the AISI 316L steel substrate by plasma is investigated. The films are processed through floating potential at 350, 375, 400, and 425 °C for 4 h, using a hydrogen–nitrogen mixture in the proportion of 40% and 60%, respectively. The thin films are investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and potentiodynamic polarization. The spectroscopy results point out the formation of different phases such as FeNi3, CrNi, and MoN1/2. Films acquired at 375 ºC present superior corrosion resistance with less negative corrosion potential (−0.020 V). The increase and decrease in FeNi3 and CrNi contents follow the improvement of the applied temperature, which is unbeneficial to the corrosion resistance of the films.
Diallyl trisulphide, a H2S donor, compromises the stem cell phenotype and restores thyroid‐specific gene expression in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma cells by targeting AKT‐SOX2 axis
Authors: Zhang Li , Xu Shichen , Cheng Xian , Zheng Jiangxia , Wang Yunping , Wu Jing , Wang Xiaowen , Wu Liying , Yu Huixin , Bao Jiandong
Published: March 2021

It is widely accepted that anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), a rare, extremely aggressive malignant, is enriched by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are closely related to the pathogenesis of ATC. In the present study, we demonstrated that diallyl trisulphide (DATS), a well‐known hydrogen sulphide (H2S) donor, suppressed sphere formation and restored the expression of iodide‐metabolizing genes in human ATC cells, which were associated with H2S generation. Two other H2S donors, NaHS and GYY4137, could also suppress the self‐renewal properties of ATC cells in vitro. Compared with normal thyroid tissues and papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs), the elevated expressions of SOX2 and MYC, two cancer stem cell markers, in ATCs were validated in the combined Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort. DATS decreased the expression of SOX2, which was mediated by H2S generation. Furthermore, knockdown of AKT or inhibition of AKT by DATS led to a decrease of SOX2 expression in ATC cells. AKT knockdown phenocopied restoration of thyroid‐specific gene expression in ATC cells. Our data suggest that H2S donors treatment can compromise the stem cell phenotype and restore thyroid‐specific gene expression of ATC cells by targeting AKT‐SOX2 pathway, which may serve as a therapeutic strategy to intervene the CSC progression of ATC.
Hill‐based musculoskeletal model for a fracture reduction robot
Authors: Tan Yinglun , Fu Zhuoxin , Duan Lunhui , Cui Rui , Wu Mengkun , Chen Jianwen , Guo Yue , Li Jian , Guo Xin , Sun Hao
Published: March 2021

Background

The introduction of fracture reduction robot can solve the problem of large reduction forces during fracture reduction surgeries and the need to collect multiple medical images. However, because its safety has not been certified, there are few academic achievements on this type of robot. To calculate the safety factor during its operation, a musculoskeletal model needs to be established to study the constraints of muscles on the robot. The existing academic achievements of musculoskeletal modelling are mainly for application such as rehabilitation treatment and collision in car accidents.

Methods

A musculoskeletal model applied to the fracture reduction robot is proposed in this paper. First, by comparing the characteristics of mainstream muscle models and combining the biological characteristics of the anesthetised muscles, the Hill model was selected as the muscle model for this study. Second, based on the motion composition of six spatial degrees of freedom, five basic fractural malposition situations are proposed. Then, a 170‐cm tall male musculoskeletal model was built in Opensim. Based on this model, the muscle force curves of the above malposition situations are calculated. Finally, a similar musculoskeletal model was established in Adams, and the accuracy of its muscle force data was tested. The study is approved by the ethics committee of the Rehabilitation Hospital, National Research Center for Rehabilitation Technical Aids, Beijing, China.

Results

The muscle force curve of Opensim and Adams model under situations of five basic malposition are compared. Most of the correlation coefficients are in the range of 0.98–0.99. The overall correlation coefficient is greater than 0.95.

Conclusions

The simulation results prove that this model can be used for the safety assessment of the fracture reduction robots. This model will be served as an environmental constraint to study the control of fracture reduction robot.
Healthy mistrust or complacent confidence? Civic vigilance in the reporting by leading newspapers on nuclear waste disposal in Finland and France
Authors: Lehtonen Markku , Kojo Matti , Kari Mika , Litmanen Tapio
Published: March 2021

Trust and confidence have been identified as crucial for efforts at solving the conundrum of high‐level radioactive waste management (RWM). However, mistrust has its virtues, especially in the form of “civic vigilance”—healthy suspicion towards the powers that be. This article examines civic vigilance in the form of “watchdog journalism,” as practiced by the leading Finnish and French newspapers—Helsingin Sanomat (HS) and Le Monde (LM)—in their RWM reporting. Although both countries are forerunners in RWM, Finland constitutes a Nordic “high‐trust society” while France has been characterized as a “society of mistrust.” Employing the methods of frame analysis, key RWM‐related news frames were identified, consisting of varying combinations of confidence, skepticism, trust, and mistrust. LM's mistrust‐skepticism‐oriented framings reflect the classical watchdog role, in sharp contrast with the confidence oriented framings of HS, which tends to reproduce government and industry framings. Explanations for the observed differences can be sought in historically constituted political and media cultures, as well as national nuclear “regimes”. For further research, we suggest two alternative hypotheses concerning the implications that these distinct models of civic vigilance have for democracy.
Remote sensing of wildlife connectivity networks and priority locations for conservation in the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor (SAGCOT) in Tanzania
Authors: Cisneros‐Araujo Pablo , Ramirez‐Lopez Miguel , Juffe‐Bignoli Diego , Fensholt Rasmus , Muro Javier , Mateo‐Sánchez María C. , Burgess Neil D.
Published: March 2021

Land conversion is causing habitat loss and fragmentation worldwide, particularly in Africa, where the proliferation of agricultural development corridors may threaten vital areas for ecological connectivity and wildlife survival. To conserve connectivity, careful landscape planning is necessary, which strongly relies on remotely sensed land cover maps. Here, we present a remote sensing‐based framework that efficiently identifies priority locations for connectivity conservation. We applied the framework in the Kilombero catchment and development cluster of the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor (SAGCOT) in Tanzania, where new agricultural development projects could act as barriers for connectivity. Using satellite imagery from Sentinel‐1 and 2, we mapped the mixture of mountain and lowland land covers and habitats with an overall accuracy of 75%. Then, we assessed ecological connectivity to predict African elephant corridors and prioritize them in two ways. First, we identified elephant corridors that contribute the most to current landscape connectivity, and second, we identified those whose restoration would significantly enhance landscape functionality and improve the current connectivity level. We mapped 214 potential elephant corridors, identified 43 of them as priority for conservation, and 43 as target for restoration. Our model predicted four already known corridor areas in and around the Kilombero valley floodplain, and other important corridors not yet identified by previous studies in the south of the basin. Priority elephant corridors inside the floodplain showed narrow widths and low permeability, indicating low functionality in the connectivity network. Nevertheless, the abundance of priority corridors for restoration suggests that connectivity could be recovered if the recommended measures are applied during SAGCOT planning and implementation process. Our findings demonstrate the possibilities of combining multispectral and radar data for guiding biodiversity management in development corridors and for assessing ecological connectivity worldwide.
Longitudinal Neuroimaging Evaluation of the Corticospinal Tract in Patients with Stroke Treated with Autologous Bone Marrow Cells
Authors: Haque Muhammad E. , Hasan Khader M. , George Sarah , Sitton Clark , Boren Seth , Arevalo Octavio D. , Vahidy Farhaan , Zhang Xu , Cox Charles S. , Alderman Susan , Aronowski Jaroslaw , Grotta James C. , Savitz Sean I.
Published: March 2021

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) attenuate secondary degeneration and enhance recovery in stroke animal models. In a nonrandomized clinical trial, we imaged 37 patients with stroke: 17 patients treated with MNCs (treated) and 20 patients who received standard of care (nontreated) at 1, 3, and 12 months onset of stroke on 3.0T MRI system. Three-dimensional anatomical and diffusion tensor images were obtained. The integrity of the corticospinal tract was assessed by measuring absolute and relative fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) in the rostral pons (RP), posterior limb of the internal capsule, and corona radiata by drawing regions of interest. Infarct volume and stroke severity, which was assessed via the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS), were higher in the MNC group compared with the nontreated patients, which is a major limitation. Overall, the relative FA (rFA) of the nontreated patients exhibited continued reduction and an increase in relative MD (rMD) from 1 to 12 months, whereas despite larger infarcts and higher severity, treated patients displayed an increase in rFA from 3 to 12 months and no change in rMD. Contrary to the nontreated group, the treated patients' rFA was also significantly correlated (P < .05) with NIHSS score in the RP at all time points, whereas rMD at the last two.
A database of CEO turnover and dismissal in S&P 1500 firms, 2000–2018
Authors: Gentry Richard J. , Harrison Joseph S. , Quigley Timothy J. , Boivie Steven
Published: March 2021

Research Summary

We introduce an open‐source dataset documenting the reasons for CEO departure in S&P 1500 firms from 2000 through 2018. In our dataset, we code for various forms of voluntary and involuntary departure. We compare our dataset to three published datasets in the CEO succession literature to assess both the qualitative and quantitative differences among them and to explore how these differences impact empirical findings associated with the performance‐CEO dismissal relationship. The dataset includes eight different classifications for CEO turnover, a narrative description of each departure event, and links to sources used in constructing the narrative so that future researchers can validate or adapt the coding. The resulting data are available at (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4543893).

Managerial Summary

This article describes the development of an open‐source database of all CEO dismissals and departures in the S&P 1500 between 2000 and 2018. Prior research on CEO turnover either does not capture the cause of departure or has coded the event independently, leading to inconsistencies and a lack of transparency in coding schemes. This has made it difficult to generate knowledge on the causes and consequences of CEO dismissal. We describe how we developed the database, and we explore how our dataset compares to prior CEO dismissal research. The resulting data are available at (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4543893).
Demystifying the catalysis in lithium–sulfur batteries: Characterization methods and techniques
Authors: Geng Chuannan , Hua Wuxing , Wang Dawei , Ling Guowei , Zhang Chen , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: March 2021

Lithium–sulfur (Li‐S) batteries are promising next‐generation energy storage systems with ultrahigh energy density. However, the intrinsic sluggish “solid–liquid–solid” reaction between S8 and Li2S causes unavoidable shuttling of polysulfides, severely limiting the practical energy density and cycling performance. Recently, the catalysis process has been introduced for the sulfur redox reaction to accelerate the conversion of polysulfides, providing a positive remedy for the polysulfides shuttling. Nevertheless, in‐depth understanding of the catalyst evaluation criteria and catalytic mechanism still lies in the “black box”, and precise characterization technique is the key to unlock this puzzle. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of characterization techniques on the catalyst in Li‐S batteries from two aspects of catalytic performance and catalytic mechanism, highlighting their significance and calling for more efforts to develop precise and fast techniques for Li‐S catalysis. Moreover, we envision the future development of characterization for better understanding the catalysis toward practical Li‐S battery.
Tidal effects for spinning particles
Authors: Aoude Rafael , Haddad Kays , Helset Andreas
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Expanding on the recent derivation of tidal actions for scalar particles, we present here the action for a tidally deformed spin-1/2 particle. Focusing on operators containing two powers of the Weyl tensor, we combine the Hilbert series with an on-shell amplitude basis to construct the tidal action. With the tidal action in hand, we compute the leading-post-Minkowskian tidal contributions to the spin-1/2–spin-1/2 amplitude, arising at $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(G2). Our amplitudes provide evidence that the observed long range spin-universality for the scattering of two point particles extends to the scattering of tidally deformed objects. From the scattering amplitude we find the conservative two-body Hamiltonian, linear and angular impulses, eikonal phase, spin kick, and aligned-spin scattering angle. We present analogous results in the electromagnetic case along the way.
Black holes lessons from multipole ratios
Authors: Bena Iosif , Mayerson Daniel R.
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We explain in detail how to calculate the gravitational mass and angular momentum multipoles of the most general non-extremal four-dimensional black hole with four magnetic and four electric charges. We also calculate these multipoles for generic supersymmetric four-dimensional microstate geometries and multi-center solutions. Both for Kerr black holes and BPS black holes many of these multipoles vanish. However, if one embeds these black holes in String Theory and slightly deforms them, one can calculate an infinite set of ratios of vanishing multipoles which remain finite as the deformation is taken away, and whose values are independent of the direction of deformation. For supersymmetric black holes, we can also compute these ratios by taking the scaling limit of multi-center solutions, and for certain black holes the ratios computed using the two methods agree spectacularly. For the Kerr black hole, these ratios pose strong constraints on the parameterization of possible deviations away from the Kerr geometry that should be tested by future gravitational wave interferometers.
The strategic biomarker roadmap for the validation of Alzheimer’s diagnostic biomarkers: methodological update
Authors: Boccardi Marina , Dodich Alessandra , Albanese Emiliano , Gayet-Ageron Angèle , Festari Cristina , Ashton Nicholas J. , Bischof Gérard N. , Chiotis Konstantinos , Leuzy Antoine , Wolters Emma E. , Walter Martin A. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Carrillo Maria , Drzezga Alexander , Hansson Oskar , Nordberg Agneta , Ossenkoppele Rik , Villemagne Victor L. , Winblad Bengt , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Garibotto Valentina
Published: March 2021

Background

The 2017 Alzheimer’s disease (AD) Strategic Biomarker Roadmap (SBR) structured the validation of AD diagnostic biomarkers into 5 phases, systematically assessing analytical validity (Phases 1–2), clinical validity (Phases 3–4), and clinical utility (Phase 5) through primary and secondary Aims. This framework allows to map knowledge gaps and research priorities, accelerating the route towards clinical implementation. Within an initiative aimed to assess the development of biomarkers of tau pathology, we revised this methodology consistently with progress in AD research.

Methods

We critically appraised the adequacy of the 2017 Biomarker Roadmap within current diagnostic frameworks, discussed updates at a workshop convening the Alzheimer’s Association and 8 leading AD biomarker research groups, and detailed the methods to allow consistent assessment of aims achievement for tau and other AD diagnostic biomarkers.

Results

The 2020 update applies to all AD diagnostic biomarkers. In Phases 2–3, we admitted a greater variety of study designs (e.g., cross-sectional in addition to longitudinal) and reference standards (e.g., biomarker confirmation in addition to clinical progression) based on construct (in addition to criterion) validity. We structured a systematic data extraction to enable transparent and formal evidence assessment procedures. Finally, we have clarified issues that need to be addressed to generate data eligible to evidence-to-decision procedures.

Discussion

This revision allows for more versatile and precise assessment of existing evidence, keeps up with theoretical developments, and helps clinical researchers in producing evidence suitable for evidence-to-decision procedures. Compliance with this methodology is essential to implement AD biomarkers efficiently in clinical research and diagnostics.
The clinical implication of soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) in patients with breast cancer and its biological function in regulating the function of T lymphocyte
Authors: Han Baojuan , Dong Lina , Zhou Jing , Yang Yan , Guo Jiaxun , Xuan Qijia , Gao Kun , Xu Zhenguo , Lei Wanting , Wang Jingxuan , Zhang Qingyuan
Published: March 2021

This work investigated the clinical prognostic implications and biological function of plasma soluble programmed cell death ligand 1 in breast cancer patients. Plasma sPD-L1 levels of recurrent/metastatic breast cancer patients were determined, and the association of sPD-L1 levels and metastatic progression-free survival and metastatic overall survival was assessed. The PD-L1 expression on breast cancer cells was analyzed by flow cytometry, and the level of sPD-L1 in the supernatant of breast cancer cells was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, the effect of sPD-L1 on the proliferation and apoptosis of T lymphocytes was detected by WST-1 assay and flow cytometry. The plasma sPD-L1 levels in 208 patients with recurrent/metastatic breast cancer before receiving first-line rescue therapy were measured. The optimal cutoff value of plasma sPD-L1 for predicting disease progression was 8.774 ng/ml. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified high sPD-L1 level (≥ 8.774 ng/ml) and visceral metastasis were independent factors associated with poor prognosis. Relevance analysis showed that the plasma sPD-L1 level was weakly

associated with some systemic inflammation markers, including white cell count (WBC), absolute monocyte

count, and absolute neutrophil count. Furthermore, we found sPD-L1 could be found in supernatant of culture with breast cancer cell line expressing PD-L1 on the cell surface and inhibit T lymphocyte function, playing a negative regulatory role in cellular immunity. sPD-L1 was a good tumor predictive maker in breast cancer and it may play a potentially important role in immune tolerance.
Natural killer cells efficiently target multiple myeloma clonogenic tumor cells
Authors: Leivas Alejandra , Risueño Ruth M. , Guzmán Alma , Sánchez-Vega Laura , Pérez Manuel , Megías Diego , Fernández Lucía , Alonso Rafael , Pérez-Martínez Antonio , Rapado Inmaculada , Martínez-López Joaquín
Published: March 2021

The multiple myeloma (MM) landscape has changed in the last few years, but most patients eventually relapse because current treatment modalities do not target clonogenic stem cells, which are drug-resistant and can self-renew. We hypothesized that side population (SP) cells represent myeloma clonogenic stem cells and, searching for new treatment strategies, analyzed the anti-myeloma activity of natural killer (NK) cells against clonogenic cells. Activated and expanded NK cells (NKAE) products were obtained by co-culturing NK cells from MM patients with K562-mb15-41BBL cell line and characterized by flow cytometry. Functional experiments against MM cells were performed by Eu-TDA release assays and methylcellulose clonogenic assays. Side population was detected by Dye Cycle Violet labeling and then characterized by flow cytometry and RNA-Seq. Self-renewal capacity was tested by clonogenic assays. Sorting of both kind of cells was performed for time-lapse microscopy experiments. SP cells exhibited self-renewal potential and overexpressed genes involved in stem cell metabolism. NK cells from MM patients exhibited dysregulation and had lower anti-tumor potential against clonogenic cells than healthy donors’ NK cells. Patients’ NK cells were activated and expanded. These cells recovered cytotoxic activity and could specifically destroy clonogenic myeloma cells. They also had a highly cytotoxic phenotype expressing NKG2D receptor. Blocking NKG2D receptor decreased NK cell activity against clonogenic myeloma cells, and activated NK cells were able to destroy SP cells, which expressed NKG2D ligands. SP cells could represent the stem cell compartment in MM. This is the first report describing NK cell activity against myeloma clonogenic cells.
Correction to: Building an efficient OCR system for historical documents with little training data
Authors: Martínek Jiří , Lenc Ladislav , Král Pavel
Published: March 2021

With the author(s)’ decision to order Open Choice, the copyright of the article changed on 3rd December 2020 to [The Authors] [2020] and the article is forthwith distributed under the terms of copyright.
Turning to the negative: attention allocation to emotional faces in adolescents with dysregulation profile—an event-related potential study
Authors: Martin Franziska , Pinnow Marlies , Getzmann Stephan , Hans Stefan , Holtmann Martin , Legenbauer Tanja
Published: March 2021

Patients with irritability, temper outbursts, hyperactivity and mood swings often meet the dysregulation profile (DP) of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) or the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), which have been investigated over the past few decades. While the DP has emerged as a transdiagnostic marker with a negative impact on therapeutic outcome and psychosocial functioning, little is known about its underlying mechanisms such as attention and emotion regulation processes. In this study, we tested whether adolescent psychiatric patients (n = 27) with the SDQ-DP show impaired emotional face processing for task-irrelevant stimuli compared to psychiatric patients without the SDQ-DP (n = 30) and non-clinical adolescents (n = 21). Facial processing was tested with event-related potential (ERP) measures known to be modulated by attention (i.e., P1, N1, N170, P2, and Nc) during a modified Attention Network Task, to which task-irrelevant emotional stimuli (sad, fearful, and neutral faces) were added prior to the actual trial. The results reveal group differences in the orienting and in the conflicting network. Patients with DP showed a less efficient orienting network and the clinical control group showed a less efficient conflicting network. Moreover, patients with the dysregulation profile had a shorter N1/N170 latency than did the two control groups, suggesting that dysregulation in adolescents is associated with a faster but less arousing encoding of (task-irrelevant) emotional information and less top-down control.