bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Warm-Up Strategies at a Cross-Country Skiing National Championship
Authors: Jones Thomas W. , Govus Andrew D. , Buskqvist Alfred , Andersson Erik P. , McGawley Kerry
Published: August 2021

Purpose:To provide a descriptive analysis of the warm-up (WU) strategies employed by cross-country skiers prior to distance and sprint competitions at a national championship and to compare the skiers’ planned and executed WUs prior to the respective competitions.Methods:Twenty-one national- and international-level skiers (11 women and 10 men) submitted WU plans prior to the distance and sprint competitions, and after the competitions, reported any deviations from the plans. Skiers used personal monitors to record heart rate (HR) during WU, races, and cooldown. Quantitative statistical analyses were conducted on WU durations, durations in HR-derived intensity zones, and WU loads. Qualitative analyses were conducted on skiers’ WU plans and their reasons for deviating from the plans.Results:Skiers’ planned WUs were similar in content and planned time in HR-derived intensity zones for both the distance and sprint competitions. However, 45% of the women and 20% of the men reported that their WU was not carried out as planned, with reasons detailed as being due to incorrect intensities and running out of time. WU activities including skiing across variable terrain, muscle-potentiating exercises, and heat-maintenance strategies were missing from the skiers’ planned routines.Conclusions:Skiers favored a long, traditional WU approach for both the sprint and distance events, performing less high-intensity and more moderate-intensity exercise during their WUs than planned. In addition, elements likely relevant to successful performance in cross-country skiing were missing from WU plans.
Metal atom–guided conformational analysis of single polynuclear coordination molecules
Authors: Takada Kenji , Morita Mari , Imaoka Takane , Kakinuma Junko , Albrecht Ken , Yamamoto Kimihisa
Published: August 2021

Atomic-resolution electron microscopy elucidated single-molecule conformations of polynuclear coordination compounds.
Longitudinal tracking of neuronal mitochondria delineates PINK1/Parkin-dependent mechanisms of mitochondrial recycling and degradation
Authors: Li Huihui , Doric Zak , Berthet Amandine , Jorgens Danielle M. , Nguyen Mai K. , Hsieh Ivy , Margulis Julia , Fang Rebecca , Debnath Jayanta , Sesaki Hiromi , Finkbeiner Steve , Huang Eric , Nakamura Ken
Published: August 2021

Time-lapse imaging delineates the mitochondrial life cycle in neurons regulated by PINK1 and Parkin.
Minimally instrumented SHERLOCK (miSHERLOCK) for CRISPR-based point-of-care diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and emerging variants
Authors: de Puig Helena , Lee Rose A. , Najjar Devora , Tan Xiao , Soenksen Luis R. , Angenent-Mari Nicolaas M. , Donghia Nina M. , Weckman Nicole E. , Ory Audrey , Ng Carlos F. , Nguyen Peter Q. , Mao Angelo S. , Ferrante Thomas C. , Lansberry Geoffrey , Sallum Hani , Niemi James , Collins James J.
Published: August 2021

An integrated, low-cost, sample-to-answer, CRISPR-based diagnostic detects SARS-CoV-2 and variants from unprocessed saliva.
Does real-time artificial intelligence-based visual pathology enhancement of three-dimensional optical coherence tomography scans optimise treatment decision in patients with nAMD? Rationale and design of the RAZORBILL study
Authors: Holz Frank G , Abreu-Gonzalez Rodrigo , Bandello Francesco , Duval Renaud , O'Toole Louise , Pauleikhoff Daniel , Staurenghi Giovanni , Wolf Armin , Lorand Daniel , Clemens Andreas , Gmeiner Benjamin
Published: August 2021

Background/rationale

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based clinical decision support tools, being developed across multiple fields in medicine, need to be evaluated for their impact on the treatment and outcomes of patients as well as optimisation of the clinical workflow. TheRAZORBILLstudy will investigate the impact of advanced AI segmentation algorithms on the disease activity assessment in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) by enriching three-dimensional (3D) retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans with automated fluid and layer quantification measurements.

Methods

RAZORBILLis an observational, multicentre, multinational, open-label study, comprising two phases: (a) clinical data collection (phase I): an observational study design, which enforces neither strict visit schedule nor mandated treatment regimen was chosen as an appropriate design to collect data in a real-world clinical setting to enable evaluation inphase IIand (b) OCT enrichment analysis (phase II): de-identified 3D OCT scans will be evaluated for disease activity. Within this evaluation, investigators will review the scans once enriched with segmentation results (i.e., highlighted and quantified pathological fluid volumes) and once in its original (i.e., non-enriched) state. This review will be performed using an integrated crossover design, where investigators are used as their own controls allowing the analysis to account for differences in expertise and individual disease activity definitions.

Conclusions

In order to apply novel AI tools to routine clinical care, their benefit as well as operational feasibility need to be carefully investigated.RAZORBILLwill inform on the value of AI-based clinical decision support tools. It will clarify if these can be implemented in clinical treatment of patients with nAMD and whether it allows for optimisation of individualised treatment in routine clinical care.
Determinants of poor inhaler technique and poor therapy adherence in obstructive lung diseases: a cross-sectional study in community pharmacies
Authors: Vanoverschelde Anna , van der Wel Paulien , Putman Barbara , Lahousse Lies
Published: August 2021

Background

Correct inhaler use can be challenging in real life, with incorrect use resulting in poor symptom control. The aim of this study was to examine factors associated with poor inhaler technique and poor therapy adherence among patients with obstructive lung disease in community pharmacies.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients with obstructive lung diseases in nine Belgian community pharmacies. Logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with poor inhaler technique and poor therapy adherence (assessed by the Test of Adherence to Inhalers and the modified Medication Possession Ratio).

Results

Seventy obstructively impaired community patients (median age 64 y, 56% females) were included and the technique of 122 inhalers was assessed. Inhaler technique scored generally poor, with half of patients making critical errors in using at least one of their inhalers. In multivariable analysis, the use of multiple devices (adjusted OR, aOR 11.68; 95% CI 3.29 to 41.51) and a diagnosis of asthma-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease overlap (ACO; aOR 7.06; 95% CI 1.15 to 43.35), were associated with making critical errors in inhaler technique independent of quality of life. Non-adherence occurred in more than one-third of patients, and occurred in up to one half of the patients when also taking overuse into account. In multivariable analysis for therapy adherence, current smoking was associated with poor therapy adherence (aOR 0.15; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.96) independently of age and poor treatment knowledge. Therapy adherence was poor in patients with asthma compared with those with ACO. Current smokers and highly educated patients seemed to be at increased risk for inhaler overuse.

Conclusions

Given the important role of a correct inhaler technique and therapy adherence in disease control, these findings emphasise the need for patient education and aiming uniformity in the inhaler device.

Trial registration number

B670201835229.
Can categorised values of maximal oxygen uptake discriminate patterns of exercise dysfunction in pectus excavatum: a prospective cohort study?
Authors: Satur Christopher M R , Cliff Ian , Watson Nicholas
Published: August 2021

Cohort studies of patients with pectus excavatum have inadequately characterised exercise dysfunction experienced. Cardiopulmonary exercise test data were delineated by maximal oxygen uptake values >80%, which was tested to examine whether patterns of exercise physiology were distinguished.

Methods

Seventy-two patients considered for surgical treatment underwent assessment of pulmonary function and exercise physiology with pulmonary function tests and cardiopulmonary exercise test between 2006 and 2019. Seventy who achieved a threshold respiratory gas exchange ratio of >1.1 were delineated by maximal oxygen uptake>80%, (group A, n=33) and <80% (group B, n=37) and comparison of constituent physiological parameters performed.

Results

The cohort was 20.8 (±SD 6.6) years of age, 60 men, with a Haller’s Index of 4.1 (±SD 1.4). Groups A and B exhibited similar demography, pulmonary function test results and Haller’s index values. Exercise test parameters of group B were lower than group A; work 79.2% (±SD 11.3) versus 97.7 (±SD 10.1), anaerobic threshold 38.1% (±SD 7.8) versus 49.7% (±SD 9.1) and O2pulse 77.4% (±SD 9.8) versus 101.8% (±SD 11.7), but breathing reserve was higher, 54.9% (±SD 13.1) versus 44.2% (±SD 10.8), p<0.001 for each. Both groups exhibited similar incidences of carbon dioxide retention at peak exercise. A total of 65 (93%) exhibited abnormal values of at least one of four exercise test measures.

Conclusion

This study showed that patients with pectus excavatum exhibited multiple physiological characteristics of compromised exercise function. It is the first study that defines differing patterns of exercise dysfunction and provides evidence that patients with symptomatic pectus excavatum should be considered for surgical treatment.
Novel oncolytic adenovirus expressing enhanced cross-hybrid IgGA Fc PD-L1 inhibitor activates multiple immune effector populations leading to enhanced tumor killing in vitro, in vivo and with patient-derived tumor organoids
Authors: Hamdan Firas , Ylösmäki Erkko , Chiaro Jacopo , Giannoula Yvonne , Long Maeve , Fusciello Manlio , Feola Sara , Martins Beatriz , Feodoroff Michaela , Antignani Gabriella , Russo Salvatore , Kari Otto , Lee Moon Hee , Järvinen Petrus , Nisen Harry , Kreutzman Anna , Leusen Jeanette , Mustjoki Satu , McWilliams Thomas G , Grönholm Mikaela , Cerullo Vincenzo
Published: August 2021

Background

Despite the success of immune checkpoint inhibitors against PD-L1 in the clinic, only a fraction of patients benefit from such therapy. A theoretical strategy to increase efficacy would be to arm such antibodies with Fc-mediated effector mechanisms. However, these effector mechanisms are inhibited or reduced due to toxicity issues since PD-L1 is not confined to the tumor and also expressed on healthy cells. To increase efficacy while minimizing toxicity, we designed an oncolytic adenovirus that secretes a cross-hybrid Fc-fusion peptide against PD-L1 able to elicit effector mechanisms of an IgG1 and also IgA1 consequently activating neutrophils, a population neglected by IgG1, in order to combine multiple effector mechanisms.

Methods

The cross-hybrid Fc-fusion peptide comprises of an Fc with the constant domains of an IgA1 and IgG1 which is connected to a PD-1 ectodomain via a GGGS linker and was cloned into an oncolytic adenovirus. We demonstrated that the oncolytic adenovirus was able to secrete the cross-hybrid Fc-fusion peptide able to bind to PD-L1 and activate multiple immune components enhancing tumor cytotoxicity in various cancer cell lines, in vivo and ex vivo renal-cell carcinoma patient-derived organoids.

Results

Using various techniques to measure cytotoxicity, the cross-hybrid Fc-fusion peptide expressed by the oncolytic adenovirus was shown to activate Fc-effector mechanisms of an IgA1 (neutrophil activation) as well as of an IgG1 (natural killer and complement activation). The activation of multiple effector mechanism simultaneously led to significantly increased tumor killing compared with FDA-approved PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor (Atezolizumab), IgG1-PDL1 and IgA-PDL1 in various in vitro cell lines, in vivo models and ex vivo renal cell carcinoma organoids. Moreover, in vivo data demonstrated that Ad-Cab did not require CD8+ T cells, unlike conventional checkpoint inhibitors, since it was able to activate other effector populations.

Conclusion

Arming PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors with Fc-effector mechanisms of both an IgA1 and an IgG1 can increase efficacy while maintaining safety by limiting expression to the tumor using oncolytic adenovirus. The increase in tumor killing is mostly attributed to the activation of multiple effector populations rather than activating a single effector population leading to significantly higher tumor killing.
Short-distance constraints for the longitudinal component of the hadronic light-by-light amplitude: an update
Authors: Colangelo G. , Hagelstein F. , Hoferichter M. , Laub L. , Stoffer P.
Published: August 2021

We reassess the impact of short-distance constraints for the longitudinal component of the hadronic light-by-light amplitude on the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, $$a_\mu =(g-2)_\mu /2$$

a
μ

=

(
g
-
2
)

μ

/
2

, by comparing different solutions that have recently appeared in the literature. In particular, we analyze the relevance of the exact axial anomaly and its impact on $$a_\mu $$

a
μ

and conclude that it remains rather limited. We show that all recently proposed solutions agree well within uncertainties on the numerical estimate of the impact of short-distance constraints on $$a_\mu $$

a
μ

, despite differences in the concrete implementation. We also take into account the recently calculated perturbative corrections to the massless quark loop to update our estimate and outline the path towards future improvements.
Analysis on adsorbent for spent solvent treatment by micro-PIXE and EXAFS
Authors: Arai Y. , Watanabe S. , Ohno S. , Nakamura M. , Shibata A. , Nakamura F. , Arai T. , Seko N. , Hoshina H. , Hagura N. , Kubota T.
Published: August 2021

The spent PUREX solvent containing U and Pu is generated from the reprocessing process of spent nuclear fuel. The nuclear material removal is important for the safe storage or disposal of the spent solvent. Our previous study revealed that the adsorbent with the iminodiacetic acid (IDA) functional group is one of the most promising materials for designing the nuclear material recovery process. Accordingly, an IDA-type adsorbent was synthesized by using graft polymerization technology or a chemical reaction to improve the adsorption rate and capacity. The synthesized IDA-type adsorbent was characterized by micro particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analyses. The micro-PIXE analysis revealed that Zr was adsorbed on the whole synthesized adsorbents and quantified the microamount of adsorbed Zr. Moreover, EXAFS suggested that Zr in the aqueous solution and solvent can be trapped by the IDA group with different mechanisms.
ANALYSIS OF PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS ON THE WEARABLE ASSIST SUIT FOR REPETITIVE AGRICULTURAL TASK
Authors: CHA EUN-HYE , KIM KYONG , OH SEUNG-YONG , YU MI , KWON TAE-KYU
Published: August 2021

Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common among farmers and farming constitutes the highest industrial accident rate. To prevent these, we developed a smart auxiliary workwear and investigated its effectiveness through human impact assessment experiments. In our method, the actuator of the waist elastic band was released when there was no need to directly adjust the length with the strength support of the waist, and the elastic band was held once the motion using the waist strength disappeared. To examine the performance, 15 workers were recruited; before the experiment, they were subjected to a basic fitness evaluation to examine their general characteristics. The lumbar peak torques before and after wearing the designed work clothes were measured using the Biodex System III to determine their lumbar assistance power, which was confirmed to have increased by approximately 17%. In addition, electromyographic comparison of the amount of muscle used before and after the wearing revealed that the muscle use was reduced by 26.41% and 19.38% after wearing the work clothes when the weight was lifted in the stooping and squatting postures, respectively. Based on these results, it can be stated that the proposed smart assistive work clothes could contribute to reduced muscle usage required for work and lessen related weariness by supporting the waist, and thus, would greatly help farmers in preventing musculoskeletal disorders.
INTELLIGENCE LEVEL MIGHT BE PREDICTED BY THE CHARACTERISTICS OF EEG SIGNALS AT SPECIFIC FREQUENCIES AND BRAIN REGIONS
Authors: LUO SONG , CHEN RUI , YANG ZHENGTING , LI KUN
Published: August 2021

The total energy the brain consumed and the intensities of information flows across different brain regions in an intellectual activity may help to explain an individual’s intelligence level. To verify this assumption, 43 students aged 18–25 were recruited as the research subjects. Their intelligence quotients (IQ) were scored by using Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), while their electroencephalogram (EEG) signals were recorded simultaneously by using Neuroscan system. The total energy and distribution patterns of EEG signals were acquired in Curry 8.0. The intensities of information flow across different brain regions were measured by Phase Slope Index (PSI). 20 channels and 190 channel combinations were selected for data analysis. The results show that the IQ score negatively correlates to the EEG energy and positively correlates to the intensities of information flows at specific frequency bands in specific channel pairs, especially in some long distance (18–24[Formula: see text]cm) channel pairs.
The Relationship between Pre-Pandemic Interferon Gamma Release Assay Test Results and COVID-19 Infection: Potential Prognostic Value of Indeterminate IFN-γ Release Assay Results
Authors: Borekci Sermin , Karakas Fatma Gulsum , Sirekbasan Serhat , Kubat Bahar , Karaali Rıdvan , Can Gunay , Kocazeybek Bekir Sami , Gemicioglu Bilun
Published: August 2021

Objective. To reveal the relationship between interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) test (Standard ETB-Feron ELISA (TBF)) results performed within 12 months before the COVID-19 pandemic and the frequency of COVID-19 infections and the severity of COVID-19. Methods. The retrospective TBF test results and contact information of 684 patients aged over 18 years who underwent TBF testing between March 11th, 2019, and March 10th, 2020, were obtained. Of the 684 patients contacted by phone, 365 agreed to participate in the study and were enrolled. The patients were divided into three groups (TBF test positive, negative, and indeterminate). The data obtained from the questionnaire were compared statistically. Results. According to the TBF test results, positive (n = 51, 14%), negative (n = 286, 78.3%), and indeterminate (n = 28, 7.7%) groups were compared. The frequency of COVID-19 infections in the indeterminate group was found significantly higher than that in the positive and negative groups (

p
=
0.005

). When the group with COVID-19 (n = 46, 12.6%) was compared with the group without (n = 319, 87.4%), no difference was found in terms of age, sex, body mass index, smoking history and number of cigarettes smoked, TB history, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and biologic and corticosteroid therapy use. Only the frequency of obstructive pulmonary disease was significantly higher in the group without COVID-19 (

p
=
0.033

). Conclusion. The frequency of COVID-19 infection was increased in patients with indeterminate TBF test results. Indeterminate TBF test results may be a guide in terms of risk stratification in groups at risk for COVID-19.
Targeting JP2: A New Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Tan Rubin , Li Cui , Xu Chuan , Wu Qi , Gao Liping , Shi Yue , Cui Jie
Published: August 2021

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disease with a complex etiology and high mortality rate. Abnormal pulmonary vasoconstriction and pulmonary vascular remodeling lead to an increase in mean pulmonary arterial blood pressure for which, and there is currently no cure. Junctophilin‐2 (JP2) is beneficial for the assembly of junctional membrane complexes, the structural basis for excitation‐contraction coupling that tethers the plasma membrane to the sarcoplasmic reticulum/endoplasmic reticulum and is involved in maintaining intracellular calcium concentration homeostasis and normal muscle contraction function. Recent studies have shown that JP2 maintains normal contraction and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. In some experimental studies of drug treatments for PH, JP2 expression was increased, which improved pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular function. Based on JP2 research to date, this paper summarizes the current understanding of JP2 protein structure, function, and related heart diseases and mechanisms and analyzes the feasibility and possible therapeutic strategies for targeting JP2 in PH.
Comparative Study on Thermos-Hydraulic Performance of Different Cross Section Shapes of Microchannels with Supercritical CO2 Fluid
Authors: Tu Yi , Zeng Yu
Published: August 2021

The influence of the cross section shape of microchannels on the thermos-hydraulic performance of the supercritical CO2 fluid is an important issue in the design of industrial compact heat exchangers, but few studies have been conducted about this issue. In this paper, comparative studies of the flow and heat transfer performance of SCO2 fluid in horizontal microchannels with circular, semicircular, rectangle, and trapezoidal cross sections were conducted numerically. The comparison is based on the same hydraulic diameter and length for all channel types and is carried out under the same mass flux, outlet pressure, and wall heat flux. The fluid bulk temperature in this analysis ranges from 285 K to 375 K, which covers the pseudocritical point of SCO2. The results show that the circular channel has the highest average heat convection coefficient, while the trapezoidal channel has the worst convective heat transfer performance under the same hydraulic diameter and boundary conditions. The results also indicate that the effect of cross section shape on the heat convection coefficient is significantly greater than that on the channel pressure drop, and the existence of the corner region in the cross section, especially the acute angle, will weaken the heat transfer performance.
A Novel Version of HPM Coupled with the PSEM Method for Solving the Blasius Problem
Authors: Filobello-Nino Uriel , Vazquez-Leal Hector , Huerta-Chua Jesus , Jimenez-Fernandez Victor Manuel , Sandoval-Hernandez Mario Alberto , Delgado-Alvarado Enrique , Tlapa-Carrera Victor Manuel
Published: August 2021

This work studies the nonlinear differential equation that models the Blasius problem (BP) which is of great importance in fluid dynamics. The aim is to obtain an approximate analytical expression that adequately describes the phenomenon considered. To find such approximation, we propose a new method denominated powered homotopy perturbation (PHPM). Unlike HPM algorithm, the successive integration process generated by PHPM will consider zero the constants of integration in each approximation, except the last one. In the same way, PHPM will propose an adequate initial trial function provided of some unknown parameters in such a way that it will not evaluate the initial conditions in the iterations of the process; therefore, this set of parameters will be employed with the purpose of adjusting in the best accurate way the proposed approximation at the final part of the process. As a matter of fact, we will note from this analysis that the proposed solution is compact and easy to evaluate and involves a sum of five exponential functions plus a linear part of two terms, which is ideal for practical applications. With the purpose to get a better approximation, we find useful to combine PHPM with the power series extender method (PSEM) which implies to add to the PHPM solution one rational function with parameters to adjust. From this proposal, we find an approximate solution competitive with others from the literature.
Computed Tomography Image Segmentation Algorithm to Detect the Curative Effect of Radial Shock Wave Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Tian Jinghai , Chen Guoyong , Peng Fuhong , Lan Guotang
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the values of computed tomography (CT) imaging technology based on image segmentation algorithm (ISA). It was applied in the radial shock wave therapy (RSWT) to treat knee osteoarthritis (KOA), so its curative effect and rehabilitation effect on nerve function were mainly analyzed in this study. 84 patients with KOA were selected and grouped into an ultrasonic treatment group (group A) and a RSW group (group B). All the patients received the ISA-based CT examination and high-quality nursing intervention. There were comparisons on the effects of pain improvement, knee joint function, and nerve function rehabilitation of patients in groups A and B. Results showed that visual analogue scale (VAS) scores before and after treatment were markedly different among all patients, and the pain degree of patients in group B was lower than the degree of group A (

P
<
0.05

). The knee joint function of group B after treatment was greatly better than group A (

P
<
0.05

). Scandinavian stroke scale (SSS) scores of nerve function rehabilitation after nursing in patients from group B were sharply lower than the scores of group A (

P
<
0.05

). Results indicated that ISA-based CT images could be applied in analysis of curative effect on KOA, and there was more obvious effect of RSWT in the treatment of KOA.
Research on Intelligent Recommendation Business Model of Tourism Enterprise Value Platform from the Perspective of Value Cocreation
Authors: Wang Qiongying , Tang Daijian
Published: August 2021

With the rapid development of China’s economy, people pay attention to their own quality of life, and tourism has become the first choice for people from all walks of life to relax themselves. Tourism travel has mainly developed from the form of travel agency registration to the form of online registration based on the network platform business model. Considering the value cocreation and the diversity of tourism enterprise platform, this paper puts forward the business model research of intelligent recommendation of tourism enterprise platform from the perspective of value cocreation. Firstly, the commonly used recommendation algorithms are introduced, which are collaborative filtering recommendation algorithm, content filtering recommendation algorithm, and association rule recommendation algorithm. Secondly, it analyzes the number of tourists and economic benefits of the business platform of tourism enterprises from April 2020 to April 2021 and also analyzes the business models of five modules under the tourism platform on different platforms. Finally, three recommendation algorithms are used to compare the comprehensive performance of five modules in different business models. Finally, we find that the rate of accuracy and recall of business is above 88%, which can have good economic benefits and provide customers with high‐quality recommendation service and good satisfaction.
Increased Proportion of Dual-Positive Th2–Th17 Cells Promotes a More Severe Subtype of Asthma
Authors: Sun Wenjin , Yuan Yu , Qiu Lulu , Zeng Qingping , Jia Jingsi , Xiang Xudong , Jia Aijun , Ma Libing , Liu Shaokun , Xiao Bing
Published: August 2021

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease, and abnormal activation of T cells is the driving link of asthma’s pathophysiological changes. Dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells, as newly discovered T-helper cells, have the functions of Th2 and Th17 cells and can coproduce Th2 and Th17 cytokines. Previous studies have shown that dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells increase the chances of asthma and correlate with asthma severity. However, the exact role of dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells in asthma is not known. Since there is no mature differentiation method for dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells, the present study aimed to clarify the strict differentiation conditions and reveal how dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells regulate asthma phenotypes. In this study, we confirmed that IL-1β, IL-6, anti-IFN-γ, and IL-21 promoted biphenotypic cell differentiation. Moreover, more proportion of dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells can be obtained by conditioned differentiation of mouse CD4+ T cells after classical allergic asthma modeling. Before asthma modeling, adoptive dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells promoted T cells to differentiate into the same biphenotype cells and exacerbated the severity of asthma. Together, our results clarify the differentiation conditions of dual-positive Th2–Th17 cells and further confirm that it stimulates asthma T cells to differentiate into the same biphenotype cells, leading to exacerbation of asthma.
N6-methyladenosine–Mediated Upregulation of WTAPP1 Promotes WTAP Translation and Wnt Signaling to Facilitate Pancreatic Cancer Progression
Authors: Deng Junge , Zhang Jialiang , Ye Ying , Liu Kaijing , Zeng Lingxing , Huang Jingyi , Pan Ling , Li Mei , Bai Ruihong , Zhuang Lisha , Huang Xudong , Wu Guandi , Wei Lusheng , Zheng Yanfen , Su Jiachun , Zhang Shaoping , Chen Rufu , Lin Dongxin , Zheng Jian
Published: August 2021

Pseudogenes may play important roles in cancer. Here, we explore the mechanism and function of a pseudogene WTAPP1 in the progress of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). WTAPP1 RNA was significantly elevated in PDAC and was associated with poor prognosis in patients. Overexpression of WTAPP1 RNA promoted PDAC proliferation and invasiveness in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification stabilized WTAPP1 RNA via CCHC-type zinc finger nucleic-acid binding protein (CNBP), resulting in increased levels of WTAPP1 RNA in PDAC cells. Excessive WTAPP1 RNA bound its protein-coding counterpart WT1-associated protein (WTAP) mRNA and recruited more EIF3 translation initiation complex to promote WTAP translation. Increased WTAP protein enhanced the activation of Wnt signaling and provoked the malignant phenotypes of PDAC. Decreasing WTAPP1 RNA significantly suppressed the in vivo growth and metastasis of PDAC cell lines and patient-derived xenografts. These results indicate that m6A-mediated increases in WTAPP1 expression promote PDAC progression and thus may serve as a therapeutic target.

Significance:

This study reveals how aberrant m6A modification of the WTAPP1 pseudogene results in increased translation of its protein-coding counterpart to promote Wnt signaling, which contributes to pancreatic cancer progression.
A Comprehensive Circulating Tumor DNA Assay for Detection of Translocation and Copy-Number Changes in Pediatric Sarcomas
Authors: Shah Avanthi Tayi , Azad Tej D. , Breese Marcus R. , Chabon Jacob J. , Hamilton Emily G. , Straessler Krystal , Kurtz David M. , Leung Stanley G. , Spillinger Aviv , Liu Heng-Yi , Behroozfard Inge H. , Wittber Frederick M. , Hazard Florette K. , Cho Soo-Jin , Daldrup-Link Heike E. , Vo Kieuhoa T. , Rangaswami Arun , Pribnow Allison , Spunt Sheri L. , Lacayo Norman J. , Diehn Maximilian , Alizadeh Ash A. , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: August 2021

Most circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assays are designed to detect recurrent mutations. Pediatric sarcomas share few recurrent mutations but rather are characterized by translocations and copy-number changes. We applied Cancer Personalized Profiling by deep Sequencing (CAPP-Seq) for detection of translocations found in the most common pediatric sarcomas. We also applied ichorCNA to the combined off-target reads from our hybrid capture to simultaneously detect copy-number alterations (CNA). We analyzed 64 prospectively collected plasma samples from 17 patients with pediatric sarcoma. Translocations were detected in the pretreatment plasma of 13 patients and were confirmed by tumor sequencing in 12 patients. Two of these patients had evidence of complex chromosomal rearrangements in their ctDNA. We also detected copy-number changes in the pretreatment plasma of 7 patients. We found that ctDNA levels correlated with metastatic status and clinical response. Furthermore, we detected rising ctDNA levels before relapse was clinically apparent, demonstrating the high sensitivity of our assay. This assay can be utilized for simultaneous detection of translocations and CNAs in the plasma of patients with pediatric sarcoma. While we describe our experience in pediatric sarcomas, this approach can be applied to other tumors that are driven by structural variants.
The Response and Tolerability of a Novel Cold Atmospheric Plasma Wound Dressing for the Healing of Split Skin Graft Donor Sites: A Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: van Welzen Annika , Hoch Matti , Wahl Philip , Weber Frank , Rode Susen , Tietze Julia Katharina , Boeckmann Lars , Emmert Steffen , Thiem Alexander
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has positive effects on wound healing and antimicrobial properties. However, an ongoing challenge is the development of specific modes of application for different clinical indications. Objectives: We investigated in a prospective pilot study the response and tolerability of a newly developed CAP wound dressing for the acute healing of split skin graft donor sites compared to conventional therapy. Methods: We applied both treatments to each patient (n = 10) for 7 days and measured 4 parameters of wound healing every other day (i.e., 1,440 measurements) using a hyperspectral imaging camera. Additionally, we evaluated the clinical appearance and pain levels reported by the patients. Results: The CAP wound dressing was superior to the control (p < 0.001) in the improvement of 3 wound parameters, that is, deep tissue oxygen saturation, hemoglobin distribution, and tissue water distribution. CAP was well tolerated, and pain levels were lower in CAP-treated wound areas. Conclusion: CAP wound dressing is a promising new tool for acute wound healing.
Cudworth, Bayle y Hume: sobre el ateísmo estratonista
Authors: Bahr Fernando
Published: August 2021

Uno de los debates más interesante en torno a la razonabilidad del materialismo ateo se dio entre los siglos XVII y XVIII a partir de que el anglicano Ralph Cudworth recuperó, para confutarla, una antigua versión atribuida al peripatético Estratón de Lampsaco. Esta versión, y las ideas de Cudworth al respecto, llegan al Continente por obra de Jean Le Clerc, donde rápidamente caen bajo la crítica de Pierre Bayle. Bayle, en efecto, muestra que la posición de Cudworth era menos sólida de lo que se suponía y que, por lo tanto, la hipótesis estratonista no había sido confutada ni mucho menos. David Hume, por su parte, tomó nota de este debate y lo reutilizó como parte importante de sus Dialogues concerning Natural Religion, desde donde alcanzó su más amplia difusión.
Aproximação entre Agamben e Comitê Invisível
Authors: Guimarães Diego
Published: August 2021

Este artigo tem como objetivo aproximar a obra de Giorgio Agamben da obra do Comitê Invisível, com o intuito de destacar, em ambos, características vinculadas à resistência anárquica. Primeiro, recapitula-se a relação do filósofo italiano com a revista Tiqqun, publicada pelo Partido Imaginário, grupo do qual se derivou o Comitê Invisível. Na sequência, avança-se na aproximação em questão neste artigo, passando por três obras publicadas pelo grupo francês: A insurreição que vem (2013), Aos nossos amigos: crise e insurreição (2016) e Agora (2017): na primeira, destacam-se os conceitos de insurreição e que vem; na segunda obra, destaca-se o conceito de potência destituinte; na terceira, aprofunda-se na potência destituinte e no conceito de agora, que por sua vez se relaciona com o conceito de tempo-do-agora trabalhado por Agamben. Por fim, tem-se que o conceito de potência destituinte figura nas obras do Comitê Invisível de maneira semelhante à que figura nas obras de Agamben, e também que o agora e o tempo-de-agora, em relação com o uso e com a forma-de-vida, mostram-se cruciais para a compreensão da potência destituinte tanto em Agamben quanto no Comitê Invisível. Ao mesmo tempo, tal aproximação aponta para uma relação da obra do filósofo italiano com a tradição de pensamento anárquico, conferindo à obra agambeniana uma perspectiva prática de resistência ao governo da vida.
Division of Property and Expansion of Rights of Political Participation: primogeniture and the Rebuttal of Patriarchalism in James Tyrrell and John Locke
Authors: Duarte Cláudia Elias
Published: August 2021

The political writings of two English philosophers of the seventeenth century – James Tyrrell and John Locke – devote a considerable part of their thought to the rebuttal of Sir Robert Filmer’s patriarchalism. Both defend, as an alternative to an absolute political power based on the paternal right of the king, a government established by the consent of those who are governed; and both assume the topic of primogeniture as central in their counter-arguments against patriarchalism. The present article intends to focus on the anti-patriarchalism arguments devoted to the second topic. Mainly, it tries to identify the reason that may be behind the choice of Sir Robert’s critics to deny a right of primogeniture, when that right was in force in their country in the seventeenth century. Departing from the assumption that, then, the exercise of political rights relied of the status of proprietary, then the defense of the end of primogeniture, and the consequent possibility of the division of property by the various members of one family, may open the door to an expansion of the rights of political participation.
Una primera aproximación al “An Essay in Defense of the Female Sex” (1696): su autoría, su estructura argumentativa y sus estrategias retóricas
Authors: Guerrero Leandro
Published: August 2021

El artículo ofrece un aproximación preliminar y parcial al panfleto feminista inglés “An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex” (1696). Luego de una breve introducción destinada a contextualizar la obra y un bosquejo de su estructura general, se procede al análisis más detenido de su primera mitad, reconstruyendo los argumentos sobre los cuales se funda la defensa del sexo femenino y mostrando de qué manera las conclusiones filosóficas más relevantes se articulan con una secuencia de discursos retóricos específicamente diseñados para un auditorio femenino. El artículo defiende la emergencia de una dicotomía naturaleza-historia que permite a la autora, por un lado, desenmascarar una situación de dominio masculino (críticamente reconocible hoy día como antecedente directo de las discusiones feministas contemporáneas) y, por el otro, ofrecer una vía retórica para la conformación y reconfiguración de un ethos y un pathos femenino.
Una lectura de la doctrina kantiana del genio
Authors: Martínez Luciana
Published: August 2021

En este artículo se examina la doctrina kantiana del genio. En primer lugar, se estudia el desarrollo de esa doctrina en el período precrítico. Se muestra que durante ese período Kant restringe el ámbito de injerencia del genio.  Hacia comienzos de los ‘80, el genio es el productor de bellas artes. En segundo lugar, se estudia la argumentación crítica. Se detalla la naturaleza del genio y se explica su función sistemática para la Crítica del Juicio.
Apresentação do dossiê “História e Natureza: I Encontro Argentina-Brasil sobre estudos do século XVIII”
Authors: Zorrilla Natalia , Ratto Adrián , Galvão Dario , Vargas Thiago
Published: August 2021

Apresentação do dossiê “História e Natureza: I Encontro Argentina-Brasil sobre estudos do século XVIII”
Safety and Effectiveness of the SVELTE Fixed-Wire and Rapid Exchange Bioresorbable-Polymer Sirolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent Systems for the Treatment of Atherosclerotic Lesions: Results of the OPTIMIZE Randomized Study
Authors: Kereiakes Dean J. , Feldman Robert L. , Ijsselmuiden A.J.J. , Saito Shigeru , Amoroso Giovanni , Zidar James P. , Wong S. Chiu , Stella Pieter , Yakubov Steven , Lasala John , Cohen David J. , Doros Gheorghe , Cutlip Donald E. , Rao Sunil V.
Published: August 2021

Background:

The SVELTE fixed-wire and rapid exchange bioresorbable-polymer sirolimus-eluting coronary stent systems (SVELTE sirolimus-eluting stent [SES]) are novel, low-profile devices designed to facilitate direct stenting, transradial access, and enhance procedural efficiencies.

Methods:

Eligible subjects (N=1639) scheduled to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention for non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction or stable coronary artery disease were randomly assigned (1:1) to treatment with either SVELTE SES or a control durable polymer everolimus-eluting coronary stent. The primary end point was 12-month target lesion failure and a noninferiority margin was specified as 3.58% with an expected event rate of 6.5%.

Results:

Target lesion failure was observed in 10.3% of SVELTE SES and 9.5% of control everolimus-eluting stent subjects under intention to treat analysis (difference=0.8%;
P
NI
=0.034). Clinically indicated target lesion revascularization and stent thrombosis were observed in 1.5% versus 1.9% (
P
=0.57) and 0.38% versus 0.51% (
P
=0.72) of SVELTE SES versus control everolimus-eluting stent–treated subjects, respectively. Protocol-defined target vessel myocardial infarction (9.4% versus 8.2%) was higher than anticipated and more frequent at sites that utilized troponin versus creatine kinase myocardial band assays.

Conclusions:

The SVELTE SES did not meet the prespecified threshold for noninferiority. Unexpectedly, high rates of target vessel myocardial infarction in both treatment groups contributed to higher than expected rates of target lesion failure, effectively underpowering the study. No differences between the SVELTE SES and control everolimus-eluting stent were observed for primary clinical or angiographic end point events.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03190473.
The Excellence of Yamazakura: Mountain Cherries and the Disappearing Tradition of Ukiyo-e Craft
Authors: Moilanen Tuula
Published: August 2021

Cherry blossom, sakura, is one of the visual symbols of Japan. For Japanese people it represents the beauty and fragility of life. Cherry tree belongs to the Rose family, which includes nearly 3000 different sub-species of flowering plants. Prunus serrulata, sometimes called as Oriental Cherry, is a species native to Japan, Korea and China. In Japan, cherry trees are roughly divided in yamazakura, wild mountain cherries and satozakura, cultivated cherry trees growing in residential areas. Moilanen’s research concentrates on the special properties of yamazakura, and its use in manufacturing printing blocks for traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The unique craft of ukiyo-e is gradually fading into history due to lack of successors. Difficulties in finding proper yamazakura wood material for making the printing blocks add to the problem. Moilanen gives an overview to the art of ukiyo-e and the present day situation in printing block manufacturing. Her article also includes an introduction of other wood qualities used in Japan for printmaking and a short report about a Finnish attempt for finding an alternative wood material to yamazakura. Research on heat-treated alder and birch was conducted in Aalto University in Helsinki 2008–2012. Finally, the current state of yamazakura in Japan is estimated, and the future prospects of ukiyo-e printmaking.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Post-Treatment PET/CT in HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Mathews Fasil , Irizarry Rachel , Rosenfeld Richard , Sundaram Krishnamurthi
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To perform a systematic review with meta-analysis to investigate the utility of post-treatment PET/CT specifically in HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma following curative intent treatment.

Methods:

Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool data from 7 observational studies (2013-2019) obtained from a database search of PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE using an a priori protocol with dual independent evaluation for inclusion, risk of bias assessment for acceptable methodology, and extraction of data for analysis. PET/CT results, treatment failure, imaging and interventions subsequent to PET/CT findings, and efficacy of salvage therapy were extracted.

Results:

Of the 907 post-treatment scans, PET/CT results were largely negative (76.2%; 95% CI, 63.4-85.6) and least often positive (11.3%; 95% CI, 8.8-14.4). PET/CT results were equivocal for 22.5% (95% CI, 12.5-36.9) and equivocal/positive for 34.2% of patients (95% CI, 25.1-44.5). Patients with an initial positive scan had the highest treatment failure rates (43.1%; 95% CI, 21.4-67.7) and those with an initial negative scan had the lowest rates (7.4%; 95% CI, 5.7-9.7). The equivocal and equivocal/positive scans had intermediate prevalence of 16.5% (95% CI, 9.4-27.6) and 16.7% (95% CI, 9.1-28.7), respectively.

Conclusion:

The low treatment failure rate following a negative PET/CT scan is reassuring, but the data are consistent with treatment failure rates up to 9.7% suggesting follow-up of these patients is prudent. Additionally, the low positive predictive value for treatment failure observed alludes to use of post-treatment PET/CT in HPV-associated disease frequently leading to unnecessary subsequent imaging and intervention.
Structures and functions of complex evaluation systems: comparison of six Central and Eastern European countries
Authors: Kupiec Tomasz , Wojtowicz Dominika , Olejniczak Karol
Published: August 2021

Evaluation practice is vital for the accountability and learning of administrations implementing complex policies. This article explores the relationships between the structures of the evaluation systems and their functions. The findings are based on a comparative analysis of six national systems executing evaluation of the European Union Cohesion Policy. The study identifies three types of evaluation system structure: centralized with a single evaluation unit, decentralized with a coordinating body and decentralized without a coordinating body. These systems differ in terms of the thematic focus of evaluations and the targeted users. Decentralized systems focus on internal users of knowledge and produce mostly operational studies; their primary function is inward-oriented learning about smooth programme implementation. Centralized systems fulfil a more strategic function, recognizing the external audience and external accountability for effects.

Points for practitioners

Practitioners who design multi-organizational evaluation systems should bear in mind that their structure and functions are interrelated. If both accountability and learning are desired, the evaluation system needs at least a minimum degree of decentralization on the one hand and the presence of an active and independent coordination body on the other.
DOES DISPARITY IN INCOME AND CONSUMPTION EVER INCITE TERRORISM IN AFRICA?
Authors: Ajide Kazeem Bello , Alimi Olorunfemi Yasiru
Published: August 2021

Does disparity in income and consumption incite terrorism in Africa? To answer this important question, we investigate the empirical linkages between inequality and terrorism by separately regressing income and consumption inequalities on four indicators of terrorism: domestic, transnational, unclear, and total over the period 1980–2012. Employing a negative binomial regression across a panel dataset covering 46 African economies, the following findings are established. First, both income and consumption inequalities have decreasing impacts on all terrorism measures—with the exception of uncertain terrorism (the impact of which is negligible). Second, both income and consumption inequalities exert more statistical influence on transnational terrorism than domestic terrorism. Third, income inequality exerts more statistical weight on terrorism measures than consumption inequality across the model specifications. Last, the non‐trivial impact of confounding variables—such as the lagged value of terrorism, surface areas, and conflicts—are validated across the terrorism models. In line with these empirical outcomes, policy implications and suggestions for further studies are offered.