bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMPA Receptors
Authors: Pinggera Alexandra , Watson Jake F , Greger Ingo H
Published: December 2020

Neuronal communication relies on rapid signalling through chemical synapses. The majority of excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system is mediated by binding of glutamate to a family of postsynaptic glutamate receptors. Among these, α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methylisoxazole‐4‐propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) mediate fast excitatory synaptic transmission and play a critical role in the synaptic plasticity that underlies learning and memory. AMPAR function is influenced on multiple levels by a combination of transcriptional modifications, post‐translational regulation, and association with a multitude of auxiliary subunits. These processes give rise to a diverse array of receptors with unique properties for their specific role in brain function. Due to their central role in neuronal signalling, malfunction in AMPAR production or regulation can cause severe neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. Since their cloning in the 1990s, much has been learned about AMPAR structure, assembly and trafficking, demonstrating the molecular complexity that underlies brain function.

Key Concepts

AMPA receptors mediate fast glutamatergic synaptic transmission.

The receptor has a highly flexible, four‐layered, domain organisation.

AMPARs associate with a diverse array of auxiliary subunits.

Post‐transcriptional modifications and distinct combinations of core and auxiliary subunits generate structurally and functionally diverse AMPA receptors.

The composition of AMPA receptor complexes varies between cell‐types and at different synapses.

Regulation of synaptic AMPA receptors expression is highly dynamic.

Synaptic AMPA receptor anchoring and accumulation is essential for neurotransmission.

Modulation of AMPA receptor function and/or trafficking allows synaptic plasticity.

AMPA receptor dysfunction is involved in various neurological diseases.
DNA Interstrand Crosslink Repair
Authors: Siede Wolfram
Published: December 2020

Crosslinking agents such as psoralens, nitrogen mustards or cisplatin are bifunctionally acting chemicals that generate some adducts as covalent linkages between complementary deoxyribonucleic acid strands. Since many agents are of importance in genetic toxicology and cancer therapy, repair of interstrand crosslinks has been studied extensively in bacteria and in lower and higher eukaryotes. The main repair pathway inEscherichia coliinvolves the sequential action of nucleotide excision repair and recombinational repair. In eukaryotes, nucleotide excision repair, translesion synthesis and homologous recombination all play important roles in crosslink repair. Instances where crosslink unhooking is performed by a glycosylase have also been observed. The relative pathway contribution depends on cell cycle position and agent used. Analysis of mammalian crosslink response proteins that are also involved in the hereditary syndrome Fanconi anaemia resulted in a model of crosslink repair within the context of converging replicons arrested by an interstrand crosslink.

Key Concepts

Certain chemicals with two or more correctly spaced reactive groups can covalently link opposing DNA strands.

Several repair or tolerance pathways such as nucleotide excision repair, homologous recombination, translesion synthesis and even DNA glycosylases can work together to overcome such complex damage.

Cell cycle stage may determine the choice of repair pathway or pathway combinations.

A heritable human cancer‐prone syndrome with diverse phenotypes (Fanconi anaemia) has been linked to defects in crosslink repair.

By integratingin vitrostudies and the analysis of Fanconi proteins, a model for mammalian cells places replication‐coupled crosslink repair at the convergence point of stalled replication forks.

This model includes a sequence of unhooking of the interstrand crosslink by structure‐specific endonucleases, filling of the created single‐stranded gap by translesion synthesis and repair of the double‐strand break in the sister chromatid by one of several pathways, including homologous recombination.
Cancer
Authors: Alison Malcolm R
Published: December 2020

Cancer develops through a process of somatic evolution underpinned by genetic alterations in genomic DNA and epigenetic mechanisms that alter gene expression. Early neoplastic development that typically occurs well before tumour diagnosis is characterized by changes in a relatively small set of driver genes that accumulate in a linear fashion generating little intratumoural genetic heterogeneity (IGH). Thereafter, a process of branched evolution occurs generating cell populations containing subclonal (private) mutations; this increased IGH impedes successful therapy. Founder cells of cancer are most likely normal stem cells, and cancers themselves may have stem cells that could be key cellular targets for tumour eradication. The tumour microenvironment is a significant player in tumour behaviour, but tumour metastasis signals a poor prognosis. Improvements in treatment are underway, chemotherapy with cytotoxic drugs and associated unwanted side‐effects often being replaced by immunotherapies such as cancer vaccines or strategies that harness the power of T cells.

Key Concepts

More than 90% of all cancers are derived from epithelial cells because epithelial cells are the first line of defense against the environment, the sunlight we are exposed to, the air we breathe, the food and drink we consume.

Tissue stem cells are the likely founder cells of most cancers and some cancer themselves have cells with stem cell properties.

The nature of the tumour microenvironment has a very significant influence on tumour behaviour.

Alterations in gene expression that characterize cancer are not just the result of physical changes to the genome, but also due to epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and non‐coding RNAs.

Cancer treatment is changing with the traditional non‐specific cell cycle poisons being accompanied or even replaced by more bespoke immunotherapies.
Origin of Life
Authors: Brack André
Published: December 2020

Primitive life – defined as a chemical system capable of transferring its molecular information via self‐replication and also capable of evolving – probably originated about 4 billion years ago from the processing of organic molecules by liquid water. Organic matter might have been formed in the primitive atmosphere from methane or carbon dioxide but also in submarine hydrothermal vents. A large fraction of prebiotic organic material might have been brought by meteoritic and cometary dust grains decelerated by the atmosphere. Strategies to understand the origin of life include the reconstitution in the laboratory of an artificial life capable of self‐reproduction and evolution, the search for fossil traces of life in Archean sediments and the search for another example of natural life beyond the Earth, on Mars, Europa, Titan, Enceladus and exoplanets.

Key Concepts

Life emerged about 4 billion years ago with organic molecules capable of self‐reproduction and of evolving in liquid water.

A large fraction of the prebiotic organic material came from space.

The reconstruction of life in a test tube lacks a simple synthesis of RNA.

The very early fossil traces of life have been erased.

The oldest accepted fossil traces of life are 3.45 billion years old.

Mars harboured large oceans in the past and was, therefore, hospitable to life.

Life may be present within the Europa's ocean.

Organic chemistry is universal. Life may, therefore, arise on appropriate extrasolar planets.
Cultivating Leadership in Adult and Continuing Education: Developing Adults Using Reflection Within Mentoring Experiences
Authors: Wlodarsky Rachel , Carr‐Chellman Davin
Published: December 2020

This article describes a research‐based and developmentally informed model of reflective practice for mentoring in the context of leadership development. The event path model of professional reflection helps individuals and organizations move to a more postindustrial model of leadership, improving the self‐efficacy and agency of those involved.
Integrating Critical Consciousness in Health Professions Education Through Leadership Education and Mentoring
Authors: Green Wendy M. , Tripp Heather , Hoffman Alexander
Published: December 2020

Mentoring can help leaders to develop a critical consciousness which incorporates a critical analysis that fosters understanding of structural and institutional stances that impact social determinants of health, access to healthcare, and health outcomes.
Effect of Nb or Ta Interlayer on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Graphite/Ti6Al4V Alloy Joints
Authors: Ma Xinjian , Mao Yangwu , Duan Yu , Deng Quanrong , Wang Geming , Wang Shenggao
Published: December 2020

Graphite/Ti6Al4V (TC4) joining has been conducted with Cu–Ti–Ni filler and refractory metal (Nb or Ta) interlayer. Microstructural characterizations reveal that defect‐free interfaces are obtained among the refractory metal interlayer, fillers, and substrates, suggesting favorable interfacial bonding in the joints. The diffusion and dissolution of Nb or Ta atoms into the molten fillers occur during joining, leading to the formation of (Ti, R) solid solution ([Ti, R]ss, R = Nb, or Ta) in the filler layers and thickness decrease in the interlayer. Two filler layers adjacent to the interlayer primarily consist of Ti–Cu, Ti–Cu–Ni intermetallics, and (Ti, R)ss. A Ti‐rich diffusion layer and a thin TiC‐containing layer exist near TC4 and graphite substrates, respectively. The joints brazed with Nb and Ta interlayers exhibit shear strength of 2 1.0 ± 2.7 MPa and 20.2 ± 3.1 MPa, respectively, both higher than those without interlayer, implying that the introduction of refractory metal interlayer may benefit the joint stress relaxation by its intermediate coefficient of thermal expansion and high ductility. The joint strength with Nb interlayer is slightly higher than that with Ta interlayer, mainly attributed to the relatively lower elastic modules and yield strength of Nb.
Recent Advances in Biomaterial Scaffolds for Integrative Tumor Therapy and Bone Regeneration
Authors: Huang Ziyan , Tian Zhengfang , Zhu Min , Wu Chengtie , Zhu Yufang
Published: December 2020

Bone tumors bring great pain to patients, along with a high disability rate and high mortality. Several therapeutic strategies have been applied to treat bone tumors, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical resection. However, these strategies have intrinsic drawbacks, such as the serious side effects of chemotherapy or the necessary reconstructive surgery of surgical resection. To help develop more satisfactory bone tumor treatment strategies, biomaterial scaffolds have been proposed. Biomaterial scaffolds are often applied for repairing bone defects after surgical resection due to their biocompatibility, osteoinductivity, and osteoconductivity as well as excellent physicochemical properties. Simultaneously, the function of bone tumor therapy offers biomaterial scaffolds to eliminate residual tumor cells, thus avoiding tumor recurrence. This review summarizes recent advances in biomaterial scaffolds which are combined with chemotherapy or hyperthermia therapy for treating bone tumors and further bone regeneration. Moreover, the progress in synergistic therapy of bone tumors based on biomaterial scaffolds is also discussed. This review aims to inspire researchers to develop novel fabrication or functionalization strategies for constructing multifunctional biomaterial scaffolds with anti‐tumor properties.
Influence of climatic stress on nonmetric sexually dimorphic features of the skull and pelvis
Authors: Waxenbaum Erin B. , Feiler Maria E.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Human sexual dimorphism is frequently assessed through skull and pelvic size and shape. Researchers suggest that climatic variation and the associated stress may be significant factors in sexual dimorphism's etiology. However, little research has specifically investigated climatic effects on nonmetric skeletal indicators of sex. To further appreciate the plasticity of human biology, a comparative study of standard skull and pelvic nonmetric sex indicators is presented.

Methods

A Native Alaskan archeological sample (n = 104) and a component of the Terry collection (n = 99) represent populations originating from different climatic environments in recent history. These sex‐balanced groups are compared through Tukey–Kramer's method and Greene's t‐test to determine any variation in degree of sexual dimorphism within and between samples.

Results

The results reinforce the complex and multifaceted relationship between climate and sexual dimorphism. The Terry sample demonstrated a greater degree of sexual dimorphism with statistically significant differences in robusticity of the mastoid process and nuchal crest compared with the Native Alaskans. A more “male” morphotype and reduced dimorphism are appreciated in the pelves of Native Alaskans than the Terry sample.

Conclusions

This research highlights a reduction in sexual dimorphism in populations under greater climatic stress and contributes to the production of more accurate skeletal assessments in future investigations. Discussion of confounding factors suggest more research is necessary to untangle climate and human morphology's complex relationship. This study contributes to a greater appreciation of human biological plasticity, ecogeographic variation, and the evolution of modern human diversity.
Physical fitness and activity level in Norwegian adults with achondroplasia
Authors: de Vries Olga Marieke , Johansen Heidi , Fredwall Svein Otto
Published: December 2020

This cross‐sectional Physical Fitness Study compared cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2 peak), six‐minute walk test (6MWT), muscle strength (30sSTS), balance (BESS), and self‐reported physical activity level (IPAQ) in Norwegian adults with achondroplasia (ACH) to reference values of average‐statured individuals. The feasibility of the physical fitness tests and IPAQ was explored. Forty‐three adults (22 women) participated. Mean age was 38 years (range 16–69 years). Mean differences (95% CI) for men and women with ACH compared to reference values were: VO2 peak. −7.0 m/min/kg (−13.6 to −0.5, p = .037), and − 7.9 ml/kg/min (−11.6 to −4.3, p < .001); 6MWT −270.8 m (−340.4 to −201.2, p < .001), and − 196.7 m (−244.3 to −149.0, p = .001); 30sSTS ‐4.6 repetitions (−7.8 to −1.5, p = .006), and − 1.1 repetitions (−3.4 to 1.1, p = .335). There were no differences within ACH participants, except for VO2 peak, where men performed better. Sufficient physical activity (> 600 metabolic equivalent of task weekly) was achieved by 79% of the participants. The feasibility of the 6MWT and 30sSTS was good. There was a strong correlation between the VO2 peak and 6MWT (men: r = 0.63, p = .007; women: r = 0.71, p < .001). The findings indicate that the 6MWT and 30sSTS test are useful in assessing functional exercise capacity and muscle strength in adults with ACH.
Serum Neurofilament Light Chain Levels in the Intensive Care Unit: Comparison between Severely Ill Patients with and without Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Sutter Raoul , Hert Lisa , De Marchis Gian Marco , Twerenbold Raphael , Kappos Ludwig , Naegelin Yvonne , Kuster Gabriela M. , Benkert Pascal , Jost Jasmine , Maceski Aleksandra Maleska , Rüegg Stephan , Siegemund Martin , Leppert David , Tschudin‐Sutter Sarah , Kuhle Jens
Published: December 2020

There is emerging evidence for multifarious neurological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), but little is known regarding whether they reflect structural damage to the nervous system. Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) is a specific biomarker of neuronal injury. We measured sNfL concentrations of 29 critically ill COVID‐19 patients, 10 critically ill non–COVID‐19 patients, and 259 healthy controls. After adjusting for neurological comorbidities and age, sNfL concentrations were higher in patients with COVID‐19 versus both comparator groups. Higher sNfL levels were associated with unfavorable short‐term outcome, indicating that neuronal injury is common and pronounced in critically ill patients. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:610–616
Crystal Flexibility Design through Local and Global Motility Cooperation
Authors: Wang Ping , Otake Ken‐ichi , Hosono Nobuhiko , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: December 2020

Incorporating local mobility into a flexible framework promises to create cooperative properties unattainable in a conventional soft porous crystal. In this study, we propose a design strategy that integrates substituent moieties and a flexible porous crystal framework via intra‐framework π–π interactions. This integration not only facilitates framework structural transitions but also gives the porous coordination polymers (PCPs) different guest‐free structures that depend on the activation conditions. The incorporated flexibility gives the material the ability to discriminate C6 alkane isomers based on different gate‐opening behaviors. Thus, the PCP has potential applications in C6 isomer separation, a critical step in the petroleum refining process to produce gasoline with high octane rating. This strategy, based on ligand designability, offers a new approach to flexible PCP structural and functional design.
Anomalous Cis‐Conformation Regioselectivity of Heterocycle‐Fused Sc3N@D3h‐C78 Derivatives
Authors: Chen Muqing , Guan Runnan , Li Bo , Yang Le , Niu Chuang , Jin Peng , Wang Guan‐Wu , Yang Shangfeng
Published: December 2020

Endohedral clusterfullerenes exhibit unique chemical properties due to intramolecular electron transfer of the encaged metal cluster to the outer fullerene cages. We report the synthesis of two Sc3N@D3h‐C78 monoadducts 2 a and 2 b through the 1,3‐dipolar reaction of Sc3N@D3h‐C78 with carbonyl ylide bearing anomalous cis‐conformation regioselectivity. The molecular structures of these monoadducts are unambiguously confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, revealing that both 2 a and 2 b have cis‐conformations with the furan moiety grafted via [6,6]‐closed addition patterns. Under the same conditions, the control reaction of C60 with carbonyl ylide affords two monoadducts 3 a and 3 b, which exhibit cis‐ and trans‐conformations, respectively, with [6,6]‐closed addition patterns. According to theoretical calculations, the exclusive formation of the cis‐only Sc3N@D3h‐C78 monoadducts is a consequence of conjunct effects of thermodynamic stability of adducts, the reactivity of the addition site, and the cis‐dipole intermediate from trans 1.
Electrochemical Arylation of Aldehydes, Ketones, and Alcohols: from Cathodic Reduction to Convergent Paired Electrolysis
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Li Lijun , Li Jingjing , Shi Jianxue , Xu Kun , Gao Wenchao , Zong Luyi , Li Guigen , Findlater Michael
Published: December 2020

Arylation of carbonyls, one of the most common approaches toward alcohols, has received tremendous attention, as alcohols are important feedstocks and building blocks in organic synthesis. Despite great progress, there is still a great gap to develop an ideal arylation method featuring mild conditions, good functional group tolerance, and readily available starting materials. We now show that electrochemical arylation can fill the gap. By taking advantage of synthetic electrochemistry, commercially available aldehydes (ketones) and benzylic alcohols can be readily arylated to provide a general and scalable access to structurally diverse alcohols (97 examples, >10 gram‐scale). More importantly, convergent paired electrolysis, the ideal but challenging electrochemical technology, was employed to transform low‐value alcohols into more useful alcohols. Detailed mechanism study suggests that two plausible pathways are involved in the redox neutral α‐arylation of benzylic alcohols.
Enhanced flame retardancy and mechanical properties of waterborne polyurethane based on the phosphorus and nitrogen containing polybutadiene acrylonitrile
Authors: Luo Yaofa , Wang Hui , Wang Haibo , Cheng Xu , Du Zongliang
Published: December 2020

To further improve fire resistance of waterborne polyurethane, the macromolecular intumescent flame retardant (APBDH) was designed and prepared from 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO), 4‐aminothiophenol, benzaldehyde, and hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene acrylonitrile (HTBN). Then, it was incorporated into waterborne polyurethane (WPU) to preparing flame retarded WPU (FR‐WPU). TGA results suggested that the incorporation of APBDH into WPU increased thermal stability of FR‐WPU. The fire resistance of FR‐WPU were investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI) test, the vertical burning test (UL‐94), SEM‐EDS analysis, the Laser Raman test, and cone calorimeter test. An LOI value of 28.82% and a UL‐94 V‐0 rating can be achieved when the WPU sample conjugated with 7.5 wt% APBDH. It indicated that the fire resistance of FR‐WPU remarkably improved and displayed both gas and condensed phase mechanism. As the content of APBDH increased, the tensile strength and the elongation at break of FR‐WPU increased firstly and then decreased. The thermo‐mechanical behaviors indicated that the storage modulus increase at first and then descend with the addition of APBDH, while the Tgs firstly decreased and then increased. Additionally, the Tgh increased with the addition of APBDH.
Association of Lipid Mediators With Development of Future Incident Inflammatory Arthritis in an Anti–Citrullinated Protein Antibody–Positive Population
Authors: Polinski Kristen J. , Bemis Elizabeth A. , Yang Fan , Crume Tessa , Demoruelle M. Kristen , Feser Marie , Seifert Jennifer , O’Dell James R. , Mikuls Ted R. , Weisman Michael H. , Gregersen Peter K. , Keating Richard M. , Buckner Jane , Reisdorph Nichole , Deane Kevin D. , Clare‐Salzler Michael , Holers V. Michael , Norris Jill M.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To determine the association of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)–derived lipid mediators with progression from rheumatoid arthritis (RA)–related autoimmunity to inflammatory arthritis (IA).

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study using data from the Studies of the Etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis (SERA). SERA enrolled first‐degree relatives (FDRs) of individuals with RA (FDR cohort) and individuals who screened positive for RA‐related autoantibodies at health fairs (screened cohort). We followed up 133 anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide 3.1 (anti‐CCP3.1)–positive participants, 29 of whom developed IA. Lipid mediators selected a priori were quantified from stored plasma samples using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We fit multivariable Cox proportional hazards models for each lipid mediator as a time‐varying variable. For lipid mediators found to be significantly associated with IA, we then examined interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, IL‐8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) as potential statistical mediators.

Results

For every 1 natural log pg/ml increase in the circulating plasma levels of proinflammatory 5‐HETE, the risk of developing IA increased by 241% (hazard ratio 2.41 [95% confidence interval 1.43–4.07]) after adjusting for age at baseline, cohort (FDR or screened), and shared epitope status. The models examining 15‐HETE and 17‐HDHA had the same trend but did not reach significance. We did not find evidence that the association between 5‐HETE and IA risk was influenced by the proinflammatory cytokines tested.

Conclusion

In a prospective cohort of anti‐CCP–positive individuals, higher levels of 5‐HETE, an important precursor to proinflammatory leukotrienes, is associated with subsequent IA. Our findings highlight the potential significance of these PUFA metabolites in pre‐RA populations.
The determination of Hipparchus' phenomena and their consistency with the Almagest star catalog
Authors: Marx Christian
Published: December 2020

The derivation of the phenomena in Hipparchus' Commentary on the phenomena of Aratus and Eudoxus from the star positions of his presumed star catalog is investigated under the assumption of their determination by a star globe. As most of Hipparchus' star coordinates are not available, they are reconstructed from the star catalog in Ptolemy's Almagest. Data consistent with the assumed determination of the phenomena are identified by a statistical method for the elimination of erroneous data; the parameters underlying this determination and the data accuracy are estimated by adjustment theory. The results indicate that, for the majority of the data under investigation, an accurate determination by a globe can be assumed. The estimated values of the parameters, the obliquity of the ecliptic and the observer's latitude, agree with information from historical sources and with values found in previous investigations of Hipparchus' data. Moreover, in most instances, the conducted analysis substantiates a strong relation between Ptolemy's and Hipparchus' star data under investigation.
Critical elements of flocculation in drinking water treatment
Authors: Alansari Amir , Amburgey James
Published: December 2020

The specific focus of this study was on the effects of flocculation duration, intensity, and scheme (i.e., single or multistage) on floc formation (time and size) and treated turbidity (settled and filtered). The results showed that floc formation times were 2–8 times longer under charge neutralization conditions compared with sweep flocculation conditions for the low‐turbidity and low‐organics water studied. Settled turbidity removals were dependent on the applied mixing conditions. Filtered turbidity was found to be independent of the investigated flocculation conditions, which calls into question the true value of mixing conditions with substantial implications on facility design, operation, and regulation. While at least 9 min of flocculation time was necessary under some coagulation conditions, the intensity and scheme of flocculation were not critical to overall treatment efficiency under the studied conditions. These findings might offer potential savings to water utilities in terms of design, construction, operation, and maintenance costs.
Recent Progress in Binder‐Free Electrodes Synthesis for Electrochemical Energy Storage Application
Authors: Shen Kaixiang , Zhai Shengli , Wang Shaofeng , Ru Qiang , Hou Xianhua , San Hui Kwan , Nam Hui Kwun , Chen Fuming
Published: December 2020

Fabrication of binder‐free electrodes is an effective way to increase the performance of electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices, such as rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors. In traditional electrodes, the binder is usually electrochemically inert and has weak interactions and interfaces between binder and the active material, which increase “dead mass” and directly affect the performance of energy storage system. The binder‐free electrode can provide well‐designed electrode material structure enables well connection between active materials themselves and current collectors. In addition, without insulating binder, electron and electrolyte ions can transfer more efficiently within the electrode materials. Here, we reviewed research efforts in using various techniques involving chemical, physical and electrical methods to fabricate binder‐free electrodes. For every technique, we first briefly describe their principle and involved factors that influence the performance of as‐fabricated binder‐free electrodes and summarize advantages and disadvantages. Next, we reviewed several works which have used this technique to fabricate binder‐free electrodes. Further, the effect of well‐crafted structure design on the properties of energy storage performances including rate capability, and cycle stability was highlighted. Last, we offer our perspectives on the challenges and potential future research directions in this area. We hope this review can stimulate more research to design and synthesize the binder‐free materials for EES devices.
The effect of anticancer treatment on cancer patients with COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Hanqing , Yang Dan , Chen Xinyue , Sun Zhihong , Zou Yutong , Chen Chuang , Sun Shengrong
Published: December 2020

Background

The relationship between cancer and COVID‐19 has been revealed during the pandemic. Some anticancer treatments have been reported to have negative influences on COVID‐19‐infected patients while other studies did not support this hypothesis.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in WOS, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI and VIP between Dec 1, 2019 and Sept 23, 2020 for studies on anticancer treatments in patients with COVID‐19. Cohort studies involving over 20 patients with cancer were included. The characteristics of the patients and studies, treatment types, mortality, and other additional outcomes were extracted and pooled for synthesis. RRs and forest plots were adopted to present the results. The literature quality and publication bias were assessed using NOS and Egger's test, respectively.

Results

We analyzed the data from 29 studies, with 5121 cancer patients with COVID‐19 meeting the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences in mortality between patients receiving anticancer treatment and those not (RR 1.17, 95%CI: 0.96–1.43, I2=66%, p = 0.12). Importantly, in patients with hematological malignancies, chemotherapy could markedly increase the mortality (RR 2.68, 95% CI: 1.90–3.78, I2=0%, p < 0.00001). In patients with solid tumors, no significant differences in mortality were observed (RR 1.16, 95% CI: 0.57–2.36, I2=72%, p = 0.67). In addition, our analysis revealed that anticancer therapies had no effects on the ICU admission rate (RR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.70–1.09, I2=25%, p = 0.23), the severe rate (RR 1.04, 95% CI: 0.95–1.13, I2=31%, p = 0.42), or respiratory support rate (RR 0.92, 95% CI: 0.70–1.21, I2=32%, p = 0.55) in COVID‐19‐infected patients with cancer. Notably, patients receiving surgery had a higher rate of respiratory support than those without any antitumor treatment (RR 1.87, 95%CI: 1.02–3.46, I2=0%, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

No significant difference was seen in any anticancer treatments in the solid tumor subgroup. Chemotherapy, however, will lead to higher mortality in patients with hematological malignancies. Multicenter, prospective studies are needed to re‐evaluate the results.
Polarization, migration, and homotypical interactions among prostatic smooth muscle cells in a laminin 111‐rich extracellular matrix
Authors: Osório Daniel A. , Consonni Silvio R. , dos Santos Aline M. , Carvalho Hernandes F.
Published: December 2020

Prostate cancer is a life‐threatening condition worldwide. As the tumor progresses, smooth muscle cells (SMCs) become atrophic/dedifferentiated, within a series of stromal changes named stromal reaction. Here, we tested whether a laminin 111‐rich extracellular matrix (Lr‐ECM) could affect SMCs phenotype and differentiation status. Using time‐lapse microscopy, image analyses, quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting, and transmission electron microscopy, we showed that SMCs acquires a migratory behavior with a decreased expression of differentiation markers and relocation of focal adhesion kinase. SMCs set homotypic cell junctions and were active in autophagy/phagocytosis. Analysis of the migratory behavior showed that SMCs polarized and migrated toward each other, recognizing long‐distance signals such as matrix tensioning. However, half of the cell population were immotile, irrespective of the nearest neighbor distance, suggesting they do not engage in productive interactions, possibly as a result of back‐to‐back positioning. In conclusion, the Lr‐ECM, mimics the effects of the proliferating and infiltrating tumor epithelium, causing SMCs phenotypical change similar to that observed in the stromal reaction, in addition to a hitherto undescribed, stereotyped pattern of cell motility resulting from cell polarization.
Alveolar ridge augmentation using the shell technique with allogeneic and autogenous bone plates in a split‐mouth design—A retrospective case report from five patients
Authors: Tunkel Jochen , de Stavola Luca , Kloss‐Brandstätter Anita
Published: December 2020

Atrophic alveolar ridges of five patients were augmented with allografts and autografts on opposite sites, followed by dental implantation. Both augmentation materials led to equivalent bone gains. Allografts did not compromise the clinical outcome.
Treatment gap in bereavement care: (Online) bereavement support needs and use after traumatic loss
Authors: Lenferink Lonneke I. M. , de Keijser Jos , Eisma Maarten C. , Smid Geert E. , Boelen Paul A.
Published: December 2020

People bereaved through road traffic accidents (RTAs) are at risk for severe and disabling grief (i.e., pathological grief). Knowledge about needs and use of bereavement care, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and support groups, is limited. This study charted (correlates of) the needs and use of bereavement care in RTA bereaved people. Furthermore, although online grief treatment seems effective, it is unknown whether it is perceived as acceptable. Accordingly, we examined the acceptability of online treatment. Dutch RTA bereaved adults (N = 273) completed self‐report measures about needs and use of bereavement care, acceptability of online grief treatment, and pathological grief. Regression analyses were used to identify correlates of care needs and use and acceptability of online treatment. The majority (63%) had received help from psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and/or support groups. One in five participants had not used bereavement care services, despite reporting elevated pathological grief levels and/or expressing a need for care, pointing to a treatment gap. Use of psychological support before the loss was the strongest predictor of bereavement care needs and use following the loss. A minority (35%) reported being inclined to use online grief treatment if in need of support. More openness towards online services was related to greater acceptability of online treatment. In conclusion, 20% of RTA bereaved people with pathological grief or care needs had not received care. This treatment gap may be reduced by improving accessibility of online treatments. However, as only 35% was open to using online treatments, increasing the acceptability of (online) treatments appears important.
Soil Health and 4R: What Practices Are Working?
Authors: Flis Sally , Bowman Maria
Published: December 2020

Soil health and 4R nutrient stewardship practices work together on farms to reduce nutrient losses. Farmers who work with the Soil Health Partnership (SHP) are adopting both at the same time. In the summer of 2020, SHP asked farmers about nutrient management practices on their SHP research fields between 2014 and 2019. This article focuses on the farmer‐reported nutrient management practices from that survey in years where corn was grown on the SHP research field from 105 farms that reported nutrient management practices in at least one corn year. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Nutrient Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/913.
The promoting active lifestyles (PAL) project: a principle‐based approach to pedagogical change
Authors: Harris Jo , Cale Lorraine , Hooper Oliver
Published: December 2020

This paper presents findings on physical education (PE) trainees’ and teachers’ attempts to design and implement authentic curricular experiences, within the constraints of a neoliberalist context. It involved adopting a principle‐based approach to promoting active lifestyles designed to align PE trainees’ and teachers’ health‐related philosophies and pedagogies. The promoting active lifestyles (PAL) project was framed by social cognitive theory and the social ecological model and adopted a qualitative explanatory case study approach. Participants were secondary school PE trainees and teachers involved in a University‐based Initial Teacher Education partnership in the East Midlands in England. The 32 participants were involved in professional development which included co‐constructing and implementing PAL principles in the schools in which they were employed or undertaking their placement. All participants viewed the PAL principles positively and were able to implement at least some of them. Participants experienced unanticipated benefits beyond increased physical activity such as improved pupil behaviour. Many participants described transformative and enduring changes to their health‐related philosophies and pedagogies. This low cost, flexible principle‐based approach to pedagogical change addresses calls for evidence‐based PE‐for‐health pedagogies and the development of possibilities that acknowledge the complexity of supporting physical educators to become more effective promoters of physical activity.
Paternal antisociality and growth in child delinquent behaviors: Moderating effects of child sex and respiratory sinus arrhythmia
Authors: (Julia) Yan Jia , Schoppe‐Sullivan Sarah J. , Beauchaine Theodore P.
Published: December 2020

Children of fathers with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) are at risk for developing delinquency, and both biological and environmental mechanisms contribute. In this study, we test parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) function as a vulnerability/sensitivity attribute in predicting intergenerational associations between fathers' antisociality and children's delinquency scores. We followed 207 children (ages 8–12 years at intake; 139 boys) across three annual assessments. Fathers' antisociality was measured via maternal reports on the Family Interview for Genetic Studies (FIGS). At Year 1, children's resting respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was measured. At Years 1, 2, and 3, child delinquent behaviors were assessed using the delinquency subscale of the Youth Self‐Report. At age 8, boys' delinquency scores were associated weakly with paternal antisocial behaviors. However, boys' delinquency scores increased steeply thereafter specifically for those who had fathers with higher antisocial symptoms. In addition, associations between delinquency and paternal antisociality were largest for boys with higher resting RSA. For girls, growth in delinquency was unrelated to both father antisociality and resting RSA. These findings (a) suggest moderating effects of children's age, sex, and PNS function on associations between father antisocial behavior and offspring delinquency; and (b) provide insights into differential vulnerability among children of fathers with ASPD.
Heterogenization of a Chiral Molecular Catalyst on a Carbon Support using Tryptophan as Anchor Molecule
Authors: Rufete‐Beneite Mónica , Román‐Martínez M. Carmen
Published: December 2020

The (R,R)‐RhDuphos chiral catalyst has been heterogenized on the surface of a carbon material with the aid of L‐tryptophan (Trp) as anchor molecule. Trp is effectively adsorbed on the carbon surface through its arene unit and is able to coordinate Rh by means of the carbonyl and amine functional groups. The chiral hybrid catalysts prepared are very active for the asymmetric hydrogenation of 2‐methyl‐acetamidoacrylate with an acceptable enantioselectivity. Besides, when prepared with a high Tpr/Rh ratio they have shown to be stable and reusable.
Landslide susceptibility analysis based on citizen reports
Authors: Rohan Tyler J. , Wondolowski Nicholas , Shelef Eitan
Published: December 2020

Landslide susceptibility estimates are essential for reducing the risk posed by landslides to social and economic well‐being. However, estimates of landslide susceptibility depend on reliable landslide inventories whose production requires extensive field or remote sensing efforts. Further, most inventories are not updated through time and thus may not capture the influence of changes in climate and/or land use. Inventories based on citizen reports of landslide occurrence, have the potential to overcome these limitations. Such an inventory can be produced from citizen reports to a 311‐phone and online system, a nationwide database that updates real‐time and records reported landslides location and timing. Whereas this landslide inventory is promising, it has not used for landslide susceptibility analyses and may be associated with spatial uncertainties and reporting biases. In this study we explore the use of 311‐based landslide inventory for landslide susceptibility estimates in Pittsburgh, PA, USA, where landslide risk is among the highest in the nation. We compare the 311‐based inventory to field‐validated inventories through a multi‐pronged approach that combines field validation of 311‐reported landslides, probabilistic analysis of the association between landslides and the underlying topographic and geologic factors, and spatial filtering. Our results show that: (a) approximately 70% of the 311‐reported landslides are associated with an identifiable landslide in the field; (b) the spatial uncertainty of the 311‐reported landslides is 104 ± 25 m; (c) 311‐reported landslides differ from other inventories in that they are primarily associated with proximity to roads, however, field‐correction of 311‐reported landslide locations rectifies this anomaly; (d) a simple spatial filter, scaled by the uncertainty in location as determined from a subset of the 311‐data, can increase the consistency between the 311‐reported inventory and field‐validated inventories. These results suggest that 311‐based landslide inventories can improve susceptibility estimates at a relatively low cost and high temporal resolution.
A review of key functionalities of battery energy storage system in renewable energy integrated power systems
Authors: Datta Ujjwal , Kalam Akhtar , Shi Juan
Published: December 2020

Renewable energy sources (RES), such as photovoltaics (PV) and wind turbines have been widely applied as alternative energy solutions to address the global environmental concern and satisfy the energy demand. The large‐scale amalgamation of intermittent RES causes reliability and stability distress in the electric grid. To mitigate the nature of fluctuation from RES, a battery energy storage system (BESS) is considered one of the utmost effective and efficient arrangements which can enhance the operational flexibility of the power system. This article provides a comprehensive review to point out various applications of BESS technology in reducing the adverse impacts of PV and wind integrated systems. The key focus is given to battery connection techniques, power conversion system, individual PV/wind, and hybrid system configuration. The application of BESS is categorized into three areas, active, reactive, and active‐reactive power features. The key findings of the existing research of BESS application are summarized and discussed along with several simulation results. By taking a thorough review, this article identifies the key challenges of BESS application including battery charging/discharging strategy, battery connection, power conversion efficiency, power converter, RES forecast, and battery lifetime and suggests future research directions that could be explored during the design, operation, and implementation of BESS technology in the power system.
Real‐time measurement of repetitive micro bulk motion vector and motion noise removal in optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Fan Jinyu , Dong Caihua , He Yi , Xing Lina , Shi Guohua
Published: December 2020

In this work, we developed a motion estimation and correction method which real‐time obtained the direction and displacement of repetitive micro bulk motion (such as cardiac and respiratory motion) on an SS‐OCT system without additional tracking hardware, and reduced the motion noise in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). In the approach, the direction of repetitive micro bulk motion was considered fixed, and proportional relationships between the motion components in three directions were determined; Then we performed one‐dimension cross‐correlation to obtain depth displacement which was further used to obtain other two motion components, and greatly reduced the computation; The processing speed on a graphic processing unit was 478 pairs of B‐Scans per second, and the measurement range was larger than the range of the angiogram‐based methods. Lastly, corrupt angiograms were recovered by adaptive scan protocol, and reduced acquisition time in comparison with the previous work.
Writing scientific case reports for top‐line journals
Authors: Weinstein Robert
Published: December 2020

The venerable clinical case report has been largely reduced to the status of commodity in the present age of dedicated case report journals. Top‐line clinical journals may discourage or even refuse to accept clinical case reports due to their potential adverse effect on the impact factor of the journal. But while the traditional clinical case report, that presents a case history and attempts to extrapolate a lesson from it, may have fallen out of favor, there remains a need for astute clinical observations that serve to stimulate the generation of hypotheses and may lead, ultimately, to medical breakthroughs. Clinicians are very much capable of employing scientific reasoning when approaching an unusual clinical situation. By remaining up to date with the literature, and determining, at the outset of the case, what lessons may be learned from it, they can formulate a scientific approach, using clinical methods, to result in meaningful contributions to the literature in top‐line journals.
Zirconia‐coated magnetic Fe2O3 nanoparticles supported 12‐tungstophosphoric acid: A novel environmentally friendly catalyst for biodiesel production
Authors: Nie Zhixin , Jiang Pingping , Zhang Pingbo , Liu Dekai , Haryono Agus , Zhao Minzhong , Zhao Huihang
Published: December 2020

A series of solid acid catalysts xHPW/Fe‐Z (x represents mass percentage of HPW = 10, 20, 30, and 50%) was synthesized by immobilizing the 12‐tungstophosphoric acid (HPW) over magnetic zirconia (Fe‐Z) through coprecipitation and impregnation methods. These catalysts were applied as heterogeneous acid catalysts in the esterification of oleic acid with methanol as a model reaction for the preliminary stage of the biodiesel production. The synthesized catalysts were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), brunauer‐emmet‐teller equation (BET), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA),vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), scanning electron microscope, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which proved that the catalyst showed excellent thermal and chemical stability and considerable magnetization (9 emu/g). The 30HPW/Fe‐Z was identified as the most efficient catalyst because it afforded a high conversion rate of 98.1% and showed a lower loss of activity over successive reaction cycles among all of the samples, and this loss of activity had been analyzed on the basis of the fouling of the materials. Besides, the catalytic conversion of HPW immobilized on magnetic zirconia was even higher than that observed under homogenous conditions due to the positive contribution of the carrier.