bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing antiemetic treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in Japan: Update summary of the 2015 Japan Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines for Antiemesis
Authors: Aogi Kenjiro , Takeuchi Hideki , Saeki Toshiaki , Aiba Keisuke , Tamura Kazuo , Iino Keiko , Imamura Chiyo K. , Okita Kenji , Kagami Yoshikazu , Tanaka Ryuhei , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Fujii Hirofumi , Boku Narikazu , Wada Makoto , Akechi Tatsuo , Iihara Hirotoshi , Ohtani Shoichiro , Okuyama Ayako , Ozawa Keiko , Kim Yong-Il , Sasaki Hidenori , Shima Yasuo , Takeda Masayuki , Nagasaki Eijiro , Nishidate Toshihiko , Higashi Takahiro , Hirata Kouichi
Published: November 2020

Patients with cancer should appropriately receive antiemetic therapies against chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Antiemetic guidelines play an important role in managing CINV. Accordingly, the first Japanese antiemetic guideline published in 2010 by the Japan Society of Clinical Oncology (JSCO) has considerably aided Japanese medical staff in providing antiemetic therapies across chemotherapy clinics. With the yearly advancements in antiemetic therapies, the Japanese antiemetic guidelines require revisions according to published evidence regarding antiemetic management worldwide. A revised version of the first antiemetic guideline that considered several upcoming evidences had been published online in 2014 (version 1.2), in which several updated descriptions were included. The 2015 JSCO clinical practice guideline for antiemesis (version 2.0) (in Japanese) has addressed clinical antiemetic concerns and includes four major revisions regarding (1) changes in emetogenic risk categorization for anti-cancer agents, (2) olanzapine usage as an antiemetic drug, (3) the steroid-sparing method, and (4) adverse drug reactions of antiemetic agents. We herein present an English update summary for the 2015 JSCO clinical practice guideline for antiemesis (version 2.0).
Nucleolar protein 10 (NOP10) predicts poor prognosis in invasive breast cancer
Authors: Elsharawy Khloud A. , Althobiti Maryam , Mohammed Omar J. , Aljohani Abrar I. , Toss Michael S. , Green Andrew R. , Rakha Emad A.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Nucleolar protein 10 (NOP10) is required for ribosome biogenesis and telomere maintenance and plays a key role in carcinogenesis. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and prognostic significance of NOP10 in breast cancer (BC).

Methods

NOP10 expression was assessed at mRNA level employing the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) (n = 1980) and Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) BC cohorts (n = 854). Protein expression was evaluated on tissue microarray of a large BC cohort (n = 1081) using immunohistochemistry. The correlation between NOP10 expression, clinicopathological parameters and patient outcome was assessed.

Results

NOP10 expression was detected in the nucleus and nucleolus of the tumour cells. At the transcriptomic and proteomic levels, NOP10 was significantly associated with aggressive BC features including high tumour grade, high nucleolar score and poor Nottingham Prognostic Index. High NOP10 protein expression was an independent predictor of poor outcome in the whole cohort and in triple-negative BC (TNBC) class (p = 0.002 & p = 0.014, respectively). In chemotherapy- treated patients, high NOP10 protein expression was significantly associated with shorter survival (p = 0.03) and was predictive of higher risk of death (p = 0.028) and development of distant metastasis (p = 0.02) independent of tumour size, nodal stage and tumour grade.

Conclusion

High NOP10 expression is a poor prognostic biomarker in BC and its expression can help in predicting chemotherapy resistance. Functional assessments are necessary to decipher the underlying mechanisms and to reveal its potential therapeutic values in various BC subtypes especially in the aggressive TNBC class.
Highway to (Digital) Surveillance: When Are Clients Coerced to Share Their Data with Insurers?
Authors: Loi Michele , Hauser Christian , Christen Markus
Published: November 2020

Clients may feel trapped into sharing their private digital data with insurance companies to get a desired insurance product or premium. However, private insurance must collect some data to offer products and premiums appropriate to the client’s level of risk. This situation creates tension between the value of privacy and common insurance business practice. We argue for three main claims: first, coercion to share private data with insurers is pro tanto wrong because it violates the autonomous choice of a privacy-valuing client. Second, we maintain that irrespective of being coerced, the choice of accepting digital surveillance by insurers makes it harder for the client to protect his or her autonomy (and to act spontaneously and authentically). The violation of autonomy also makes coercing customers into digital surveillance pro tanto morally wrong. Third, having identified an economically plausible process involving no direct coercion by insurers, leading to the adoption of digital surveillance, we argue that such an outcome generates further threats against autonomy. This threat provides individuals with a pro tanto reason to prevent this process. We highlight the freedom dilemma faced by regulators who aim to prevent this outcome by constraining market freedoms and argue for the need for further moral and empirical research on this question.
Effectiveness of diet and physical activity interventions amongst adults attending colorectal and breast cancer screening: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Orange Samuel T. , Hicks Kirsty M. , Saxton John M.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To estimate the effectiveness of tailored physical activity and dietary interventions amongst adults attending colorectal and breast cancer screening.

Methods

Five literature databases were systematically searched to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of tailored physical activity and/or dietary interventions with follow-up support initiated through colorectal and breast cancer screening programmes. Outcomes included markers of body fatness, physical activity, and dietary intake. Mean differences (MDs) or standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using random effects models.

Results

Five RCTs met the inclusion criteria encompassing a total of 722 participants. Diet and physical activity interventions led to statistically significant reductions in body mass (MD − 1.6 kg, 95% CI − 2.7 to − 0.39 kg; I2 = 81%; low quality evidence), body mass index (MD − 0.78 kg/m2, 95% CI − 1.1 to − 0.50 kg/m2; I2 = 21%; moderate quality evidence), and waist circumference (MD − 2.9 cm, 95% CI − 3.8 to − 1.91; I2 = 0%; moderate quality evidence), accompanied by an increase in physical activity (SMD 0.31, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.50; I2 = 0%; low quality evidence) and fruit and vegetable intake (SMD 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.64; I2 = 51%; low quality evidence).

Conclusion

There is low quality evidence that lifestyle interventions involving follow-up support lead to modest weight loss and increased physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake. Due to the modest intervention effects, low quality of evidence and small number of studies, further rigorously designed RCTs with long-term follow-up of modifiable risk factors and embedded cost–benefit analyses are warranted (PROSPERO ref: CRD42020179960).
Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in head and neck cancer and glioblastoma—backbone or add-on in immune-oncology?
Authors: Riess Christin , Irmscher Nina , Salewski Inken , Strüder Daniel , Classen Carl-Friedrich , Große-Thie Christina , Junghanss Christian , Maletzki Claudia
Published: November 2020

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) control the cell cycle and play a crucial role in oncogenesis. Pharmacologic inhibition of CDK has contributed to the recent clinical approval of dual CDK4/6 inhibitors for the treatment of breast and small cell lung cancer. While the anticancer cell effects of CDK inhibitors are well-established, preclinical and early clinical studies describe additional mechanisms of action such as chemo- and radiosensitization or immune stimulation. The latter offers great potential to incorporate CDK inhibitors in immune-based treatments. However, dosing schedules and accurate timing of each combination partner need to be respected to prevent immune escape and resistance. In this review, we provide a detailed summary of CDK inhibitors in the two solid cancer types head and neck cancer and glioblastoma multiforme; it describes the molecular mechanisms of responsevs.resistance and covers strategies to avoid resistance by the combination of immunotherapy or targeted therapy.
Task Sharing or Task Dumping: Counsellors Experiences of Delivering a Psychosocial Intervention for Mental Health Problems in South Africa
Authors: Jacobs Y. , Myers B. , van der Westhuizen C. , Brooke-Sumner C. , Sorsdahl K.
Published: November 2020

Given task-sharing mental health counselling to non-specialist providers is a recognised strategy to increase service capacity, ensuring that their training, supervision, and support needs are met is necessary to facilitate the sustainable delivery of a high-quality service. Using in-depth interviews, we qualitatively explored the experiences of 18 facility-based counsellors (FBCs) tasked with delivering a counselling intervention within chronic disease services offered within primary care facilities participating in the project MIND cluster randomised controlled trial. Findings show that project MIND training with a strong emphasis on role playing and skills rehearsal improved FBCs’ confidence and competence, complemented by highly structured supervision and debriefing provided by a registered counsellor, were key strategies for supporting the implementation of task-shared mental health counselling. FBCs perceived many benefits to providing mental health counselling in primary healthcare but systemic interventions are needed for sustained implementation.
Representing Attitudes Towards Ambiguity in Hilbert Space: Foundations and Applications
Authors: Sozzo Sandro
Published: November 2020

We provide here a general mathematical framework to model attitudes towards ambiguity which uses the formalism of quantum theory as a “purely mathematical formalism, detached from any physical interpretation”. We show that the quantum-theoretic framework enables modelling of the Ellsberg paradox, but it also successfully applies to more concrete human decision-making tests involving financial, managerial and medical decisions. In particular, we elaborate a mathematical representation of various empirical studies which reveal that attitudes of managers towards uncertainty shift from ambiguity seeking to ambiguity aversion, and viceversa, thus exhibiting hope effects and fear effects. The present framework provides a promising direction towards the development of a unified theory of decisions in the presence of uncertainty.
Decades needed for ecosystem components to respond to a sharp and drastic phosphorus load reduction
Authors: Chorus Ingrid , Köhler Antje , Beulker Camilla , Fastner Jutta , van de Weyer Klaus , Hegewald Tilo , Hupfer Michael
Published: November 2020

Lake Tegel is an extreme case of restoration: inflow treatment reduced its main external phosphorus (TP) load 40-fold, sharply focused in time, and low-P water flushed the lake volume ≈ 4 times per year. We analysed 35 years of data for the time TP concentrations took to decline from ≈ 700 to 20–30 µg/l, biota to respond and cyanobacteria to become negligible. The internal load proved of minor relevance. After 10 years, TP reached 35–40 µg/l, phytoplankton biomass abruptly declined by 50% and cyanobacteria no longer dominated; yet 10 years later at TP < 20–30 µg/l they were below quantifiable levels. 20–25 years after load reduction, the lake was stably mesotrophic, macrophytes had returned down to 6–8 m, and vivianite now forms, binding P insolubly in the sediment. Bottom-up control of phytoplankton through TP proved decisive. Five intermittent years with a higher external P load caused some ‘re-eutrophication’, delaying recovery by 5 years. While some restoration responses required undercutting thresholds, particularly that of phytoplankton biomass to TP, resilience and hysteresis proved irrelevant. Future research needs to focus on the littoral zone, and for predicting time spans for recovery more generally, meta-analyses should address P load reduction in combination with flushing rates.
Blind MV-based video steganalysis based on joint inter-frame and intra-frame statistics
Authors: Ghamsarian Negin , Schoeffmann Klaus , Khademi Morteza
Published: November 2020

Despite all its irrefutable benefits, the development of steganography methods has sparked ever-increasing concerns over steganography abuse in recent decades. To prevent the inimical usage of steganography, steganalysis approaches have been introduced. Since motion vector manipulation leads to random and indirect changes in the statistics of videos, MV-based video steganography has been the center of attention in recent years. In this paper, we propose a 54-dimentional feature set exploiting spatio-temporal features of motion vectors to blindly detect MV-based stego videos. The idea behind the proposed features originates from two facts. First, there are strong dependencies among neighboring MVs due to utilizing rate-distortion optimization techniques and belonging to the same rigid object or static background. Accordingly, MV manipulation can leave important clues on the differences between each MV and the MVs belonging to the neighboring blocks. Second, a majority of MVs in original videos are locally optimal after decoding concerning the Lagrangian multiplier, notwithstanding the information loss during compression. Motion vector alteration during information embedding can affect these statistics that can be utilized for steganalysis. Experimental results have shown that our features’ performance far exceeds that of state-of-the-art steganalysis methods. This outstanding performance lies in the utilization of complementary spatio-temporal statistics affected by MV manipulation as well as feature dimensionality reduction applied to prevent overfitting. Moreover, unlike other existing MV-based steganalysis methods, our proposed features can be adjusted to various settings of the state-of-the-art video codec standards such as sub-pixel motion estimation and variable-block-size motion estimation.
What is the Influence of News Media on People’s Perception of Corruption? Parametric and Non-Parametric Approaches
Authors: Charron Nicholas , Annoni Paola
Published: November 2020

Does the source of one’s news media have a systematic effect on one’s perception of political corruption? While numerous studies have investigated the extent to which media affects trust in institutions, or the polarization of political values, this study shifts the focus on to how one’s media source conceived here as social media versus traditional media affects the perception of corruption in 2 ways. First, we hypothesize that citizens who consume their news predominately from social media will have higher perceptions of political corruption than consumers of more traditional media sources. Second, we hypothesize that perceptions among social media consumers will be more polarized. Specifically, we argue that the gap in corruption perception between supporters of government and opposition political parties will be larger among social media consumers compared to traditional news consumers. We test our hypotheses using newly collected survey data from the European Quality of Government Index survey from 2017, which contains nearly 78,000 respondents in 21 countries in the European Union. Estimating our model with both parametric and non-parametric approaches, we find robust empirical support for two of our 3 hypotheses.
Workshop report: Toward the development of a human whole stool reference material for metabolomic and metagenomic gut microbiome measurements
Authors: Mandal Rupasri , Cano Raul , Davis Cindy D. , Hayashi David , Jackson Scott A. , Jones Christina M. , Lampe Johanna W. , Latulippe Marie E. , Lin Nancy J. , Lippa Katrice A. , Piotrowski Paulina , Da Silva Sandra M. , Swanson Kelly S. , Wishart David S.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

To date, there has been little effort to develop standards for metabolome-based gut microbiome measurements despite the significant efforts toward standard development for DNA-based microbiome measurements.

Objectives

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), The BioCollective (TBC), and the North America Branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI North America) are collaborating to extend NIST’s efforts to develop a Human Whole Stool Reference Material for the purpose of method harmonization and eventual quality control.

Methods

The reference material will be rationally designed for adequate quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) for underlying measurements in the study of the impact of diet and nutrition on functional aspects of the host gut microbiome and relationships of those functions to health. To identify which metabolites deserve priority in their value assignment, NIST, TBC, and ILSI North America jointly conducted a workshop on September 12, 2019 at the NIST campus in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The objective of the workshop was to identify metabolites for which evidence indicates relevance to health and disease and to decide on the appropriate course of action to develop a fit-for-purpose reference material.

Results

This document represents the consensus opinions of workshop participants and co-authors of this manuscript, and provides additional supporting information. In addition to developing general criteria for metabolite selection and a preliminary list of proposed metabolites, this paper describes some of the strengths and limitations of this initiative given the current state of microbiome research.

Conclusions

Given the rapidly evolving nature of gut microbiome science and the current state of knowledge, an RM (as opposed to a CRM) measured for multiple metabolites is appropriate at this stage. As the science evolves, the RM can evolve to match the needs of the research community. Ultimately, the stool RM may exist in sequential versions. Beneficial to this evolution will be a clear line of communication between NIST and the stakeholder community to ensure alignment with current scientific understanding and community needs.
The influence of preparation methodology on the concentrations of heavy metals in Pleurozium schreberi moss samples prior to use in active biomonitoring studies
Authors: Świsłowski Paweł , Kosior Grzegorz , Rajfur Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

Active biomonitoring is used to assess environmental pollution of elements such as heavy metals by indicator species such as mosses. They are used, among others, in urbanized areas where no indicator species are found. In such study areas, mosses collected from sites considered to be ecologically clean shall be exposed. In this context, it is very important to prepare the mosses properly before the exposure, so that the information received about the condition of the environment is reliable. In 2018, studies were conducted in the forested areas of southern Poland—in Opolskie Province. Pleurozium schreberi mosses were used in these studies. Atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomiser (F-AAS) was used to determine the concentrations of Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb present. The aim was to study the influence of preparation methodology on Pleurozium schreberi moss samples prior to use in active biomonitoring studies. Four different methodologies were tested across four different sample locations (with varying levels of pollution). The results of the research were analysed and the coefficient of variation (CV) was determined. The value of the CV is influenced, among other things, by the location of the particular sample and the level of pollution by, for example heavy metals, in the moss. The research conducted proves that of the four methods used to prepare mosses for later exposure in active biomonitoring, the best method is averaging with simultaneous conditioning of mosses in demineralised water. This treatment causes the CV coefficient to fall below 10% for most of the metals determined in the moss samples. It has also been shown that maintaining moss collection methodology in accordance with ICP Vegetation standards (open/wooded area—tree canopy) also has a significant impact on the result obtained. Statistical analysis confirmed (Wilcoxon test) that the method of processing the mosses significantly influenced the results obtained. Thanks to the appropriate preparation of the mosses before exposition, they can be used in active biomonitoring of, for example, urban areas.
Aerosol-Deposited BiVO4 Photoelectrodes for Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Wolpert Charline , Emmler Thomas , Villa Vidaller Maria , Elsenberg Andreas , Shinoda Kentaro , Schieda Mauricio , Gärtner Frank , Akedo Jun , Klassen Thomas
Published: November 2020

Hydrogen generation from renewable energy sources will play a key role in the concerted endeavor to constrain climate change. One environmentally friendly route, powered by sunlight, is the photoelectrochemical water splitting cell (PEC). This technology employs electrodes coated with thin films of semiconductor materials to capture light and generate charge carriers that directly drive the water splitting reaction. Bismuth vanadate is a promising metal oxide semiconductor, as it absorbs visible light, and is abundant, non-toxic and cost-effective. The present study investigates the formation of bismuth vanadate thin films by the aerosol deposition (AD) method. Operating with layer formation at room temperature, AD offers advantages over other routes for the fabrication of photoactive thin film coatings, as no binders or sintering processes need to be applied. Furthermore, compared to traditional cold spraying, micrometer-sized particles can be used, resulting in coatings with thicknesses below 1 µm. Additionally, the lower kinetic energy of the feedstock powder particles enables the use of delicate substrates, such as FTO-coated glass, expanding the range of possible PEC device configurations. The process parameters explored in this study had considerable influence on the resulting coating microstructure, which in turn showed a significant impact on the photoelectrochemical performance.
Influence of MAX-Phase Deformability on Coating Formation by Cold Spraying
Authors: Elsenberg Andreas , Busato Marco , Gärtner Frank , List Alexander , Bruera Alessia , Bolelli Giovanni , Lusvarghi Luca , Klassen Thomas
Published: November 2020

As solid-state deposition technique avoiding oxidation, cold gas spraying is capable of retaining feedstock material properties in the coatings, but typically fails to build up coatings of brittle materials. Ceramic MAX phases show partial deformability in particular lattice directions and may thus successfully deposit in cold spraying. However, deformation mechanisms under high strain rate, as necessary for cohesion and adhesion, are not fully clear yet. A MAX-phase deposit only builds up, if the specific mechanical properties of the MAX phase allow for, and if suitable spray parameter sets get realized. To investigate the influence of material properties and deposition conditions on coating microstructure and quality, three MAX phases, Ti3SiC2, Ti2AlC and Cr2AlC, were selected. Up to ten passes under different spray parameters yielded Ti2AlC and Cr2AlC coatings with thicknesses of about 200-500 µm. In contrast, Ti3SiC2only forms a monolayer, exhibiting brittle laminar failure of the impacting particles. In all cases, the crystallographic structure of the MAX-phase powders was retained in the coatings. Thicker coatings show rather low porosities (< 2%), but some laminar cracks. The deposition behavior is correlated with individual mechanical properties of the different MAX-phase compositions and is discussed regarding the particular, highly anisotropic deformation mechanisms.
Evaluation of Fluoride and Selected Chemical Parameters in Kombucha Derived from White, Green, Black and Red Tea
Authors: Jakubczyk Karolina , Gutowska Izabela , Antoniewicz Justyna , Janda Katarzyna
Published: November 2020

Kombucha dates back thousands of years and is reported to have originated in East Asia. It is produced by fermenting tea with added sugar using SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). Its health benefits can be attributed to the metabolites produced during the fermentation process. Valuable ingredients of this fermented tea beverage include acetic acid, glucuronic acid, vitamins, enzymes, sugars and polyphenols. Tea, and consequently kombucha, contains numerous minerals, and one of them is fluoride. Under physiological conditions, fluoride plays a significant role in hard tissue mineralisation processes. However, even at low concentrations with long-term exposure, fluorides may accumulate in the body and cause a range of detrimental effects. Kombucha is traditionally brewed with black tea, but these days it is becoming increasingly popular to use other types of tea to make it, which may significantly affect its composition and health-promoting effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the fluoride content in kombucha beverages derived from black, green, white and red tea. Fluoride content was measured at different time points during fermentation. The potentiometric method was used to determine the content of fluoride ions. It was demonstrated that kombucha is a major dietary source of fluoride (0.42–0.93 mg/L) and that the type of tea used has a significant effect on its chemical composition. Therefore, it recommended to make the beverage with white or red tea, due to the lowest fluoride content and ensure food safety.

Graphical Abstract
Scrutinising what Open Access Journals Mean for Global Inequalities
Authors: Demeter Márton , Istratii Ronina
Published: November 2020

In the current article, we tested our hypothesis by which high-impact journals tend to have higher Article Processing Charges (APCs) by comparing journal IF metrics with the OA publishing fees they charge. Our study engaged with both journals in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields and the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) and included Hybrid, Diamond and No OA journals. The overall findings demonstrate a positive relationship between APCs and journals with high IF for two of the subject areas we examined but not for the third, which could be mediated by the characteristics and market environment of the publishers. We also found significant differences between the analysed research fields in terms of APC policies, as well as differences in the relationship between APCs and the IF across periodicals. The study and analysis conducted reinforces our concerns that Hybrid OA models are likely to perpetuate inequalities in knowledge production.
Predicting topical drug clearance from the skin
Authors: Maciel Tabosa Maria Alice , Hoppel Magdalena , Bunge Annette L. , Guy Richard H. , Delgado-Charro M. Begoña
Published: November 2020

For topical drug products that target sites of action in the viable epidermal and/or upper dermal compartment of the skin, the local concentration profiles have proven difficult to quantify because drug clearance from the viable cutaneous tissue is not well characterised. Without such knowledge, of course, it is difficult—if not impossible—to predict a priori whether and over what time frame a topical formulation will permit an effective concentration of drug within the skin ‘compartment’ to be achieved. Here, we test the hypothesis that valuable information about drug disposition, and specifically its clearance, in this experimentally difficult-to-access compartment (at least, in vivo) can be derived from available systemic pharmacokinetic data for drugs administered via transdermal delivery systems. A multiple regression analysis was undertaken to determine the best-fit empirical correlation relating clearance from the skin to known or easily calculable drug properties. It was possible, in this way, to demonstrate a clear relationship between drug clearance from the skin and key physical chemical properties of the drug (molecular weight, log P and topological polar surface area). It was further demonstrated that values predicted by the model correlated well with those derived from in vitro skin experiments.
The framing effect of tax–transfer systems
Authors: He Tai-Sen
Published: November 2020

The present study investigates the framing effect of tax–transfer systems on work effort decisions. We devised two theoretically equivalent treatments—the redistributive tax treatment and the redistributive transfer treatment—and studied subjects’ work effort choices in a novel public goods experiment. We found that subjects chose higher effort levels when redistribution took place via transfers than via taxes. Interestingly, the treatment effect was more pronounced among those with lower cognitive abilities and those who judged the tax–transfer system to be unfair. The results have the potential to offer insight on the debate about the extent to which taxes or transfers should be actively used for redistribution.
The role of two different training systems in affecting carbon sequestration capability in hazelnut orchards
Authors: Granata Mirko U. , Catoni Rosangela , Bracco Francesco
Published: November 2020

As a part of a larger study concerning the carbon sequestration capability by hazelnut orchards in Italy, we analyzed the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) removed over the year from the atmosphere through the net assimilation rates in two hazelnut orchards in Piedmont (i.e., the second region in Italy for surface and production). In particular, considering the key role played by the structural traits in affecting carbon sequestration potential, we assessed the impact of two different training systems widely diffused in the region: single trunk in orchardA and bush-like in orchardB. The results showed that plants in orchardA and orchardB sequestered 10.6 ± 1.8 and 25.7 ± 4.2 kg (CO2) plant−1 month−1, respectively. Higher CO2 sequestration in the plants in orchardB was due to their higher leaf area index relative to plants in orchardA. The mean CO2 sequestration from orchardA and orchardB per area was 4.25 ± 1.72 and 8.57 ± 3.41 Mg (CO2) ha−1 month−1, respectively. We also estimated the total amount of CO2 emission by the management over the entire production season in 157.335 kg CO2eq ha−1 by summing the contribution of diesel fuel, machinery and fertilization practices and considering that the total amount of CO2 sequestered by the two hazelnut orchards over the entire study period was estimated in 26 Mg (CO2) ha−1 in orchardA, and in 51 Mg (CO2) ha−1 in orchardB, they had an effective positive role as carbon sink at this local level.
Near-field phase profile and far-field contrast modulation for micro-lens arrays at the refraction limit
Authors: Yousefi M. , Nečesal D. , Scharf T. , Rossi M.
Published: November 2020

We investigate the far-field pattern generation for a micro-lens array (MLA) illuminated under different conditions. Plane wave and Gaussian beam illumination are considered for an MLA with a small diameter of 27 microns and 30 microns period. At these dimensions, the optical effects are governed by diffraction and refraction and sometimes the regime is called the refraction limit. For Gaussian beam illumination, a high contrast dot pattern can be obtained in the far field according to the self-imaging theory for point source illumination and it is investigated in the simulation part. Also, we designed an interference microscopy setup to record both the phase and intensity in near field behind the MLA and also in the far field. The new instrument allows us to change illumination conditions from plane wave to point source. We then experimentally compare the near-field phase modulation and resulting far-field intensity for different conditions. For plane wave illumination, a high contrast pattern is observed in the far field. For the Gaussian beam illumination, the contrast of the far-field pattern depends on the distance of the source and MLA resulting in high contrast and a larger field of view only for particular distances depending on the interference of the Gaussian beam curved phase front and the MLA.
CRSP8 promotes thyroid cancer progression by antagonizing IKKα-induced cell differentiation
Authors: Liao Yina , Hua Yijun , Li Yizhuo , Zhang Changlin , Yu Wendan , Guo Ping , Zou Kun , Li Wenyang , Sun Yao , Wang Ruozhu , Zuo Yan , Sui Silei , Tian Chunfang , Hao Jiaojiao , Chen Manyu , Hu Sheng , Chen Miao , Long Qian , Wang Xiaonan , Zou Lijuan , Xie Fangyun , Guo Wei , Deng Wuguo
Published: November 2020

CRSP8 plays an important role in recruiting mediators to genes through direct interaction with various DNA-bound transactivators. In this study, we uncovered the unique function of CRSP8 in suppressing thyroid cancer differentiation and promoting thyroid cancer progression via targeting IKKα signaling. CRSP8 was highly expressed in human thyroid cancer cells and tissues, especially in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Knockdown of CRSP8 suppressed cell growth, migration, invasion, stemness, and induced apoptosis and differentiation in ATC cells, while its overexpression displayed opposite effects in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) cells. Mechanistically, CRSP8 downregulated IKKα expression by binding to the IKKα promoter region (−257 to −143) to negatively regulate its transcription. Knockdown or overexpression of IKKα significantly reversed the expression changes of the differentiation and EMT-related markers and cell growth changes mediated by CRSP8 knockdown or overexpression in ATC or DTC cells. The in vivo study also validated that CRSP8 knockdown inhibited the growth of thyroid cancer by upregulating IKKα signaling in a mouse model of human ATC. Furthermore, we found that CRSP8 regulated the sensitivity of thyroid cancer cells to chemotherapeutics, including cisplatin and epirubicin. Collectively, our results demonstrated that CRSP8 functioned as a modulator of IKKα signaling and a suppressor of thyroid cancer differentiation, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for ATC by targeting CRSP8/IKKα pathway.
Enzymatic diagnosis of Pompe disease: lessons from 28 years of experience
Authors: Niño Monica Y. , Wijgerde Mark , de Faria Douglas Oliveira Soares , Hoogeveen-Westerveld Marianne , Bergsma Atze J. , Broeders Mike , van der Beek Nadine A. M. E. , van den Hout Hannerieke J. M. , van der Ploeg Ans T. , Verheijen Frans W. , Pijnappel W. W. M. Pim
Published: November 2020

Pompe disease is a lysosomal and neuromuscular disorder caused by deficiency of acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA), and causes classic infantile, childhood onset, or adulthood onset phenotypes. The biochemical diagnosis is based on GAA activity assays in dried blood spots, leukocytes, or fibroblasts. Diagnosis can be complicated by the existence of pseudodeficiencies, i.e., GAA variants that lower GAA activity but do not cause Pompe disease. A large-scale comparison between these assays for patient samples, including exceptions and borderline cases, along with clinical diagnoses has not been reported so far. Here we analyzed GAA activity in a total of 1709 diagnostic cases over the past 28 years using a total of 2591 analyses and we confirmed the clinical diagnosis in 174 patients. We compared the following assays: leukocytes using glycogen or 4MUG as substrate, fibroblasts using 4MUG as substrate, and dried blood spots using 4MUG as substrate. In 794 individuals, two or more assays were performed. We found that phenotypes could only be distinguished using fibroblasts with 4MUG as substrate. Pseudodeficiencies caused by the GAA2 allele could be ruled out using 4MUG rather than glycogen as substrate in leukocytes or fibroblasts. The Asian pseudodeficiency could only be ruled out in fibroblasts using 4MUG as substrate. We conclude that fibroblasts using 4MUG as substrate provides the most reliable assay for biochemical diagnosis and can serve to validate results from leukocytes or dried blood spots.
Indirect detection of intermediate in decarboxylation reaction of phenylglyoxylic acid by hyperpolarized 13C NMR
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Kim Yaewon , Luu Quy Son , Kim Jihyun , Qi Chang , Hilty Christian , Lee Youngbok
Published: November 2020

Nuclear spin hyperpolarization is used to enhance NMR signals for observation of chemical reactions in real-time. Here, we introduce a blind saturation technique, which enables the indirect detection of otherwise unobservable reaction intermediates.
Rare earth permanent magnetic nanostructures: chemical design and microstructure control to optimize magnetic properties
Authors: Xu Junjie , Zhu Kai , Gao Song , Hou Yanglong
Published: November 2020

The routes for the optimization of the magnetic properties of rare earth permanent magnetic nanostructures are discussed,i.e.the control of microstructure, such as size and shape as well as the exchange-coupling interactions.
Optimal intermediate adducts regulate low-temperature CsPbI2Br crystallization for efficient inverted all-inorganic perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Jinpei , Chen Libao , Qian Zongyao , Ren Guoqi , Wu Jie , Zhang Hui
Published: November 2020

Synergistic effects of biuret additive regulate low-temperature CsPbI2Br crystallization for efficient and moisture stable inverted all-inorganic perovskite solar cells.
Infiltration of cerium into a NiO–YSZ tubular substrate for solid oxide reversible cells using a LSGM electrolyte film
Authors: Tan Zhe , Song Jun Tae , Takagaki Atsushi , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: November 2020

Ce infiltration into a NiO–YSZ tubular substrate is significantly effective for increasing the SORC performance using a LSGM electrolyte.
Boosting the performance of a silicon photocathode for photoelectrochemical hydrogen production by immobilization of a cobalt tetraazamacrocyclic catalyst
Authors: Nie Chengming , Liu Chang , Gong Lunlun , Wang Mei
Published: November 2020

Immobilization of a cobalt tetraazamacrocyclic catalyst on p-Si/TiO2 through a 2,6-dicarboxypyridin-4-yl anchor gave an efficient and stable hybrid photocathode for photoelectrochemical H2 production.
Tailoring the thermoelectric and structural properties of Cu–Sn based thiospinel compounds [CuM1+xSn1−xS4 (M = Ti, V, Cr, Co)]
Authors: Bourgès Cédric , Srinivasan Bhuvanesh , Fontaine Bruno , Sauerschnig Philipp , Minard Alizée , Halet Jean-François , Miyazaki Yuzuru , Berthebaud David , Mori Takao
Published: November 2020

The thermoelectric properties of a series of Cu–Sn based thiospinel compounds by screening a variety of transition elements (M = Ti, V, Cr, Co) as a potential substituent at the Sn-site (both p- and n-type thiospionels) are reported and discussed.
The contribution of alpha particles to the solar wind angular momentum flux in the inner heliosphere
Authors: Finley A. J. , McManus M. D. , Matt S. P. , Kasper J. C. , Korreck K. E. , Case A. W. , Stevens M. L. , Whittlesey P. , Larson D. , Livi R. , Bale S. D. , Dudok de Wit T. , Goetz K. , Harvey P. R. , MacDowall R. J. , Malaspina D. M. , Pulupa M.
Published: November 2020

Context. An accurate assessment of the Sun’s angular momentum (AM) loss rate is an independent constraint for models that describe the rotation evolution of Sun-like stars.

Aims. In situ measurements of the solar wind taken by Parker Solar Probe (PSP), at radial distances of ~28−55 R⊙, are used to constrain the solar wind AM-loss rate. For the first time with PSP, this includes a measurement of the alpha particle contribution.

Methods. The mechanical AM flux in the solar wind protons (core and beam), and alpha particles, was determined as well as the transport of AM through stresses in the interplanetary magnetic field. The solar wind AM flux was averaged over three hour increments, so that our findings more accurately represent the bulk flow.

Results. During the third and fourth perihelion passes of PSP, the alpha particles contain around a fifth of the mechanical AM flux in the solar wind (the rest is carried by the protons). The proton beam is found to contain ~10−50% of the proton AM flux. The sign of the alpha particle AM flux is observed to correlate with the proton core. The slow wind has a positive AM flux (removing AM from the Sun as expected), and the fast wind has a negative AM flux. As with previous works, the differential velocity between the alpha particles and the proton core tends to be aligned with the interplanetary magnetic field.

Conclusions. In future, by utilising the trends in the alpha-proton differential velocity, it may be possible to estimate the alpha particle contribution when only measurements of the proton core are available. Based on the observations from this work, the alpha particles contribute an additional 10−20% to estimates of the solar wind AM-loss rate which consider only the proton and magnetic field contributions. Additionally, the AM flux of the proton beam can be just as significant as the alpha particles, and so neither should be neglected in future studies.
Does Dose Volume Histogram of Parotid Glands Correlate with Xerostomia Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Scores in Locoregionally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy?
Authors: Goel Sajal , Bhutani Ritu , Bansal Vivek , Goel Ruchika
Published: November 2020

Introduction Xerostomia is an imminent complication of head and neck radiotherapy best assessed subjectively. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sparing parotid glands with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) on subjective xerostomia scores in patients with locoregionally advanced head and neck cancer.

Subjects and Methods This is a prospective longitudinal study conducted in an outpatient department setting. A total of 43 patients with head and neck cancer were planned with IMRT as per the ICRU 62 (International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurement Report 62). The constraints to ipsilateral and contralateral parotid glands were 35 and 25 Gy, respectively. Treatment plan was assessed for doses to 100, 67, 50, and 33% volume of individual parotid glands. Patients were subjectively assessed using the Amosson’s Questionnaire and graded as per Eisbruch’s xerostomia Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scores. Dose volume histogram (DVH) was plotted and correlated with grades of xerostomia postradiation at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months follow-ups. Statistical analysis was performed suing SPSS version 16, chi-square test, and one-way analysis of variance test.

Results No statistically significant correlation between mean dose of radiation, volume of the parotid glands, and grades of xerostomia was noted postradiation. A statistically significant improvement in grades of xerostomia between 3 and 6 months (p = 0.0), 3 and 9 months (p = 0.020), 6 and 9 months (p = 0.009), 6 and 12 months (p = 0.05), and 9 and 12 months (p = 0.00) was noted. Recovery in grades was noted at 9 months.

Conclusion There is no statistically significant direct correlation between DVH of the parotid glands and grades of xerostomia, although recovery in grades was statistically significant at 9 months.
Crises redefined: towards new spaces for social innovation in inner areas?
Authors: Moralli Melissa , Allegrini Giulia
Published: November 2020

This article explores the relationship between the emergence of a ‘crisis society', social innovation and community resilience in Italian inner areas. Arguing that the concept of ‘crisis society' – as a further development of a ‘risk society’ – can help to frame both the increasing of uncertainty and the possibility for social change, the paper outlines a theoretical reflection on how context of crisis can influence social arrangements and forms of solidarity. In particular, it proposes to adopt the analytical lenses of social innovation and community resilience to discuss the relation between crisis, local dynamism and collective action. Secondly, it identifies Italian inner areas as an interesting field of research were to analyse how innovative initiatives and narratives can emerge in context of crisis, with a special focus on the Covid-19 pandemic. Without denying the negative consequences of this crisis, this early research paper sheds light on how crisis can be redefined on a double level. Firstly, by opening new windows of opportunities for collective action and bottom-up resilience. Secondly, by reframing inner areas, usually represented as vulnerable territories, as spaces where the creative capacity of local community can emerge. Finally, the paper identifies further trajectories of investigation for empirical research.
Risk of Atrial Fibrillation in Masked and White Coat Uncontrolled Hypertension
Authors: Coccina Francesca , Pierdomenico Anna M , De Rosa Matteo , Lorenzo Belli , Foglietta Melissa , Petrilli Ivan , Vitulli Piergiusto , Pizzicannella Jacopo , Trubiani Oriana , Cipollone Francesco , Renda Giulia , Pierdomenico Sante D
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in masked and white coat uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH and WUCH, respectively) has not yet been investigated. We assessed the risk of new-onset AF in MUCH and WUCH detected by ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring.

METHODS

The occurrence of AF was evaluated in 2,135 treated hypertensive patients aged >40 years, with baseline sinus rhythm, by electrocardiogram. Controlled hypertension (CH) was defined as clinic BP <140/90 mm Hg and daytime BP, regardless of nighttime BP, <135/85 mm Hg, MUCH as clinic BP <140/90 mm Hg and daytime BP ≥135 and/or ≥85 mm Hg, WUCH as clinic BP ≥140 and/or ≥90 mm Hg and daytime BP <135/85 mm Hg, and sustained uncontrolled hypertension (SUCH) as clinic BP ≥140 and/or ≥90 mm Hg and daytime BP ≥135 and/or ≥85 mm Hg.

RESULTS

MUCH was identified in 203 patients (9.5% of all the population, 29% of those with normal clinic BP) and WUCH in 503 patients (23.5% of all the population, 35% of those with high clinic BP). During the follow-up (mean 9.7 years), 116 cases of AF occurred. After adjustment for covariates, patients with MUCH (hazard ratio 2.02, 95% confidence interval, 1.06–3.85) and SUCH (hazard ratio 1.83, 95% confidence interval, 1.04–3.21) had higher risk of new-onset AF than those with CH, whereas those with WUCH (hazard ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval, 0.59–2.13) did not.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with patients with CH, those with MUCH and SUCH are at higher risk (approximately doubled) of new-onset AF, whereas those with WUCH are not.
The renal patient seen by non-renal physicians: the kidney embedded in the ‘milieu intérieur’
Authors: Perez-Villa Felix , Lafage-Proust Marie Hélène , Gielen Eveline , Ortiz Alberto , Spasovski Goce , Argilés Àngel
Published: November 2020

Chronic kidney disease is defined as a decrease in renal function or evidence of kidney injury for >3 months. This represents an oversimplification that may confuse physicians. Thus kidney function is equated to glomerular filtration rate, which represents one of multiple kidney functions. Some potentially more important renal functions are lost earlier, such as the production for the anti-ageing factor Klotho. Overall, these changes modify the emergent properties of the body, altering the relationships between different organs and systems, in a manner that is difficult to predict the response to interventions based on normal physiology concepts, as there is a novel steady state of interorgan relations. In this regard we now discuss the impact of CKD on heart failure; osteomuscular and joint pain and bone fragility and fractures; and osteosarcopaenia as seen by a cardiologist, a rheumatologist and a geriatrician.