bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of initiation thresholds and soil loss from gully erosion on unpaved roads on China's Loess Plateau
Authors: Zhao Yiyang , Zhang Yan , Yuan Mutian , Yang Meng , Deng Jiayong
Published: February 2021

Gullies form easily on unpaved road surfaces during heavy rainstorms on China's Loess Plateau. The integrated effect of rainfall, topography, vegetation, land use, and other factors determines where and when gully erosion occurs; however, the mechanisms driving gully erosion on unpaved road surfaces need to be further understood. Repeated gully erosion on some roads during the storm season provides a good opportunity to better understand the mechanisms behind gully erosion. This article aimed to quantify the integrated threshold conditions required for gully initiation in terms of topography, event rainfall, and upslope land use, and to propose an event‐based model to predict the position and magnitude of road gully erosion. Rill and gully erosion on unpaved roads were investigated after an extreme rainstorm of 212.2 mm in 2017 and a regular rainstorm of 83.8 mm in 2018. A digital surface model (DSM) derived from unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images was used to analyze the road gradient (S) and upslope area (A). The runoff (QRS) of each road segment (RS) was estimated by the runoff curve number method. The results showed the following: (1) The mean and total gully volumes under the regular rainstorm were only 26.3% and 8.1% of those under the extreme rainstorm, respectively; (2) Gully formation on the surveyed roads under both the regular and the extreme rainstorm could be explained by the threshold relationship (S − 0.056)QRS3.363 ≥ 72.444; and (3) A non‐linear relationship between gully erosion in road segments and event runoff (QRS) and road gradient (S) was found, and was subsequently used to predict road gully erosion on an event basis.
A weighted essentially nonoscillatory‐based phase field lattice Boltzmann method for incompressible two‐phase flows with high density contrast
Authors: Ma Chao , Wu Jie , Jiang Lan
Published: February 2021

In this article, a high order weighted essentially nonoscillatory finite difference‐based phase field lattice Boltzmann method (WENO‐PFLBM) is proposed for simulations of incompressible two‐phase flows with high density contrast. The weighted essentially nonoscillatory finite difference scheme is applied to discretize the convection term of the discrete Boltzmann equation for flow field. Moreover, the WENO scheme is also adopted to discretize the convection term of the modified Cahn–Hilliard equation for interface tracking. Numerical validations of the proposed WENO‐PFLBM are implemented by simulating stationary droplet, layered Poiseuille flow, Rayleigh–Taylor instability, bubble rising, and droplet impact on a thin film. Various numerical challenges like high density ratios (up to 1000), complex interfaces, and high Reynolds numbers are included in these examples, which demonstrate the robustness of the present method. In addition, the current method can achieve relatively small spurious velocity compared with the LB‐based model owing to the high order accuracy.
pH‐sensitive soluble soybean polysaccharide/SiO2 incorporated with curcumin for intelligent packaging applications
Authors: Salarbashi Davoud , Tafaghodi Mohsen , Bazzaz Bibi Sedigheh Fazly , Mohammad Aboutorabzade Seyyed , Fathi Morteza
Published: February 2021

In the present work, the effect of various concentrations of SiO2 nanoparticles (5, 10, and 15%) on physicochemical and antimicrobial properties of soluble soybean polysaccharide (SSPS)‐based film was investigated. Then, the migration of SiO2 nanoparticles to ethanol as a food simulant was evaluated. Subsequently, curcumin was added to the nanocomposite formulation to sense the pH changes. Finally, the cytotoxicity of the developed packaging system was investigated. With increasing nanoparticle concentration, the film thickness, water solubility, and water vapor permeability decreased and mechanical performance of the films improved. SSPS/SiO2 nanocomposite did not show antibacterial activity. SEM analysis showed that SiO2 nanoparticles are uniformly distributed in the SSPS matrix; however, some outstanding spots can be observed in the matrix. A very homogeneous surface was observed for neat SSPS film with Ra and Rq values of 3.48 and 4.26, respectively. With the incorporation of SiO2 (15%) into SSPS film, Ra and Rq values increased to 5.67 and 5.98, respectively. Small amount of SiO2 nanoparticles was released in food simulant. The nanocomposite incorporated with curcumin showed good physical properties and antibacterial activity. A strong positive correlation was observed between TVBN content of shrimp and a* values of the films during storage time (Pearson's correlation = 0.985).
The Oligocene to Lower Miocene depositional sequences of the Zagros Basin, SW Iran
Authors: Joudaki Mohamad , Noroozpour Hamideh , Mahmoodi Panah Fatemeh , Baghbani Dariuosh , Lak Razyeh
Published: February 2021

This research assesses the Oligocene to Lower Miocene Asmari and Pabdeh formations characteristics and depositional sequences in the Zagros Basin (south‐west Iran). A regional stratigraphic transect is selected including the Persian Gulf Foreland Basin, Dezful Embayment, and the Zagros Simple Folded sub‐zones of the Zagros Basin. Five major depositional sequences have been distinguished by major changes in facies and stratal architecture. The spatial and temporal distribution and evolution of the five third‐order sequences identified show a strong progradation system from the Zagros Simple Folded Belt (N/NE) towards the Persian Gulf Foreland Basin, especially during the Rupelian, while geometric intricacy and significant facies changes are less developed in the Late Chattian and Early Miocene. According to the sequence stratigraphy correlation, two tectonic pulses are proposed for the Asmari deposits in the Dezful Embayment and Zagros Simple Folded Belt during the Rupelian to Early Chattian. During the Burdigalian, the series drastically thickens northward, so that the greatest sediment thickness occurred in the Zagros Simple Folded Belt. There is probably a connection between the structural closure of the Neo‐Tethys and the continuous uplift of the Zagros fold belt in the study area.
Long‐term ecosystem and biogeochemical research in Loch Vale watershed, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Authors: Baron Jill S. , Clow David W. , Oleksy Isabella A. , Weinmann Timothy , Charlton Caitlin , Jayo Amanda
Published: February 2021

Loch Vale watershed was instrumented in 1983 with initial support from the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program to ask whether ecosystems of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) were affected by acidic atmospheric deposition. Research and monitoring activities were expanded in 1991 by the U.S. Geological Survey Water, Energy, and Biogeochemical Budgets program to understand the processes, and their interactions, controlling water, energy, and biogeochemical fluxes. With help from many collaborators we have characterized trends and patterns in atmospheric deposition, climate, and hydrology, including glaciers and other ice features. Instead of acidic deposition, we documented high atmospheric inputs of reactive nitrogen (Nr), and have studied the ecological consequences in soils, surface water, and vegetation. Using paleolimnology, we documented the onset of human‐caused change to lake primary producers ca. 1950 in response to increased Nr deposition and warming. Our results provided the basis for the Colorado Nitrogen Deposition Reduction Plan, a state policy that aims to reduce Nr emissions to protect resources in RMNP by 2032. Carbon cycle research revealed mountain wetlands now release more carbon than they store, and respiration and methane flux occurs even during winter through deep snow packs. Trend analyses found export of Nr to be closely tied to atmospheric inputs, but can lag in response to drought. Current research explores consequences of the combination of warming, changes in precipitation dynamics, and atmospheric deposition of Nr and dust on stream and lake CO2 dynamics, lake biology and trophic state, and soil carbon composition. Dramatic increases in park visitors have prompted studies on the effects of recreational use on water quality. New tools such as remote sensing and high frequency instream water quality sensors are being applied to lake and stream studies. Monitoring, combined with experiments, models, and spatial comparisons is an essential foundation for science‐based resource management.
Long‐term hydrological, biogeochemical, and climatological data from Walker Branch Watershed, East Tennessee, USA
Authors: Griffiths Natalie A. , Mulholland Patrick J.
Published: February 2021

In 1967, the original Walker Branch Watershed (WBW) project was established to study elemental cycling and mass balances in a relatively unimpacted watershed. Over the next 50+ years, findings from additional experimental studies and long‐term observations on WBW advanced understanding of catchment hydrology, biogeochemistry, and ecology and established WBW as a seminal site for catchment science. The 97.5‐ha WBW is located in East Tennessee, USA, on the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge Reservation. Vegetation on the watershed is characteristic of an eastern deciduous, second‐growth forest. The watershed is divided into two subcatchments: the West Fork (38.4 ha) and the East Fork (59.1 ha). Headwater streams draining these subcatchments are fed by multiple springs, and thus flow is perennial. Stream water is high in base cations due to weathering of dolomite bedrock and nutrient concentrations are low. Long‐term observations of climate, hydrology, and biogeochemistry include daily (1969–2014) and 15‐min (1994–2014) stream discharge and annual runoff (1969–2014); hourly, daily, and annual rainfall (1969–2012); daily climate and soil temperature (1993–2010); and weekly stream water chemistry (1989–2013). These long‐term datasets are publicly available on the WBW website (https://walkerbranch.ornl.gov/long‐term‐data/). While collection of these data has ceased, related long‐term measurements continue through the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), where WBW is the core terrestrial and aquatic site in the Appalachian and Cumberland Plateau region (NEON's Domain 7) of the United States. These long‐term datasets have been and will continue to be important in evaluating the influence of climatic and environmental drivers on catchment processes.
Pediatric double positive anti‐glomerular basement membrane antibody and anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody glomerulonephritis—A case report with review of literature
Authors: Helander Louise , Hanna Melisha , Annen Kyle
Published: February 2021

Anti‐glomerular basement membrane (GBM) disease is a rarely described entity in the pediatric population, especially in those less than 3 years old. Even rarer, is double seropositive disease, consisting of anti‐GBM antibody plus anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. Both single and double antibody positive diseases are characterized by rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, often without pulmonary involvement in the pediatric population. We report the case of a 2‐year‐old child with double seropositive anti‐GBM disease, the youngest in the current literature, along with the role of therapeutic plasma exchange and rituximab in disease treatment.
Isolation of three polyoxins by reversed‐phase liquid chromatography with pure aqueous mobile phase
Authors: Li Zhidong , Jiang Dasen , Dai Yingping , Dai Zhuoshun , Jin Yu , Fu Qing , Liang Xinmiao
Published: February 2021

Developing methods for the isolation of highly polar compounds from complex samples is of great significance. In this study, three polyoxins were successfully isolated from a complex sample (PN1‐1#) by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography. Separation was carried out on five polar reversed‐phase stationary phases, using pure aqueous as mobile phase, where the C18HC column can provide the best performance for PN1‐1#. Next, the effects of the mobile phase composition were studied. It was found that adding NaClO4 can enhance the retention and resolution, and adding NaH2PO4 was beneficial to maintain good peak shapes when the sample loading increased. Therefore, the optimized mobile phase consisting of 20 mmol NaH2PO4 and 20 mmol NaClO4 (adding H3PO4 to adjust pH 2) was used to separate PN1‐1#. This method of using 100% aqueous phase can effectively improve both the retention and the solubility of polar samples. Eventually, through further purification, three compounds, namely, polyoxins B, D, and G, were obtained. This paper provided an effective and eco‐friendly strategy for the preparative‐scale separation of polar samples.
Recent progress of microfluidics in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis
Authors: Xia Ling , Li Gongke
Published: February 2021

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy is a significant analytical tool capable of fingerprint identification of molecule in a rapid and ultrasensitive manner. However, it is still hard to meet the requirements of practical sample analysis. The introduction of microfluidics can effectively enhance the performance of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy in complex sample analysis including reproducibility, selectivity, sensitivity, and speed. This review summarizes the recent progress of microfluidics in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis through four combination approaches. First, microfluidic synthetic techniques offer uniform nano‐/microparticle fabrication approaches for reproductive surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis. Second, the integration of microchip and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic substrate provides advanced devices for sensitive and efficient detection. Third, microfluidic sample preparations enable rapid separation and preconcentration of analyte prior to surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic detection. Fourth, highly integrated microfluidic devices can be employed to realize multistep surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis containing material fabrication, sample preparation, and detection processes. Furthermore, the challenges and outlooks of the application of microfluidics in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis are discussed.
Extending Diderot unities: How cosmetic surgery changes consumption
Authors: Song Sujin , Gonzalez‐Jimenez Hector , Belk Russell W.
Published: February 2021

Consumers engage in transformative practices such as cosmetic surgery to shape a new self that satisfies personal and social expectations. Yet, we lack an understanding of how cosmetic surgery and the consequent changes to a consumer's self affect their consumption practices. Building on Diderot unities we explore how cosmetic surgery influenced consumption practices of 10 female consumers postcosmetic surgery. Prior work on Diderot unities suggests that it is a new object inspiring the consumption of additional objects. Extending the notion of Diderot unities, we posit that also a new self brings changes in the constellation of consumption objects. Specifically, cosmetic surgery, the self, and material consumption practices are tied together by an expanded view of Diderot unities as not only involving people and objects, but also adding experiences. A newly surgically enhanced person perceives an imbalance between the assemblage of their self and self‐expressive objects. This imbalance sets off a series of purchases to restore balance by acquiring possessions and experiences that match their new magnificent self. Purchases extend to areas such as fashion objects, grooming objects and experiences, as well as experiences related to personal well‐being, vacation and leisure.
Self‐Immolative RAFT‐Polymer End Group Modification
Authors: Scherger Maximilian , Räder Hans Joachim , Nuhn Lutz
Published: February 2021

Reversible modifications of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT)‐polymerization derived end groups are usually limited to reductive degradable disulfide conjugates. However, self‐immolative linkers can promote ligation and traceless release of primary and secondary amines as well as alcohols via carbonates or carbamates in β‐position to disulfides. In this study, these two strategies are combined and the concept of self‐immolative RAFT‐polymer end group modifications is introduced: As model compounds, benzylamine, dibenzylamine, and benzyl alcohol are first attached as carbamates or carbonates to a symmetrical disulfide, and in a straightforward one‐pot reaction these groups are reversibly attached to aminolyzed trithiocarbonate end groups of RAFT‐polymerized poly(N,N‐dimethylacrylamide). Quantitative end group modification is confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, and mass spectrometry, while reversible release of attached compounds under physiological reductive conditions is successfully monitored by diffusion ordered NMR spectroscopy and thin layer chromatography. Additionally, this concept is further expanded to protein‐reactive, self‐immolative carbonate species that enable reversible bioconjugation of lysozyme and α‐macrophage mannose receptor (MMR) nanobodies as model proteins. Altogether, self‐immolative RAFT end group modifications can form the new basis for reversible introduction of various functionalities to polymer chain ends including protein bioconjugates and, thus, opening novel opportunities for stimuli‐responsive polymer hybrids.
Alternative splicing: An important regulatory mechanism in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jianyi , Wang Chuhan , Li Le , Yang Lirui , Wang Shuoshuo , Ning Xuelian , Gao Shuangshu , Ren Lili , Chaulagain Anita , Tang Jing , Wang Tianzhen
Published: February 2021

Alternative splicing (AS) is a process that produces various mRNA splicing isoforms via different splicing patterns of mRNA precursors (pre‐mRNAs). AS is the primary mechanism for increasing the types and quantities of proteins to improve biodiversity and influence multiple biological processes, including chromatin modification, signal transduction, and protein expression. It has been reported that AS is involved in the tumorigenesis and development of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). In this review, we delineate the concept, types, regulatory processes, and technical advances of AS and focus on the role of AS in CRC initiation, progression, treatment, and prognosis. This summary of the current knowledge about AS will contribute to our understanding of CRC initiation and development. This study will help in the discovery of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CRC prognosis and treatment.
Xanthohumol Microbiome and Signature in Healthy Adults (the XMaS Trial): Safety and Tolerability Results of a Phase I Triple‐Masked, Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Langley Blake O. , Ryan Jennifer Joan , Hanes Douglas , Phipps John , Stack Emily , Metz Thomas O. , Stevens J. Frederik , Bradley Ryan
Published: February 2021

Scope

Xanthohumol, a prenylflavonoid from hops, has been extensively studied preclinically but has undergone limited research in human subjects. A triple‐masked, placebo‐controlled phase I clinical trial was conducted to examine the safety and tolerability of xanthohumol.

Methods and Results

Thirty healthy volunteers were randomized to 24 mg day−1 xanthohumol (99.8% pure) or placebo for eight weeks. Comprehensive metabolic panels, complete blood counts, body weight, vital signs, and health‐related quality of life questionnaires were assessed every two weeks. Participants were interviewed for adverse events (AEs) throughout the trial. Thirteen of 14 (93%) and 14 of 16 (88%) participants completed the trial in the placebo and xanthohumol groups, respectively. There were no withdrawals due to AEs. There were no clinically relevant, between‐group differences in laboratory biomarkers, body weight, vital signs, or health‐related quality of life. There were no severe or FDA‐defined serious AEs, but non‐serious AEs are documented in both the placebo (n = 42) and xanthohumol (n = 58) groups.

Conclusion

Over an eight‐week period, 24 mg daily xanthohumol was safe and well‐tolerated by healthy adults.
Autoregulated heavy slow resistance training combined with radial shockwave therapy for plantar heel pain: Protocol for a mixed‐methods pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Burton Ian
Published: February 2021

Background

Plantar heel pain (PHP) is considered a tendinopathy and it affects up to 10% of the population. Both heavy slow resistance training (HSRT) and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) have shown effectiveness for treating PHP in isolation. However, more comprehensive exercise protocols and progression methods are needed due to poor long‐term outcomes, and better standardisation of ESWT protocols are required. Autoregulation of resistance training involves self‐selecting exercise dosage based on individual factors. Although autoregulation has proven effective for strength gains in athletes, it has not been investigated in tendinopathy. Recent studies recommend that PHP should not be treated by one treatment intervention in isolation. However, there is a dearth of research investigating the feasibility and effectiveness of combined treatment interventions for PHP. Currently, no studies have investigated autoregulated HSRT combined with ESWT, despite their individual efficacy. The optimal treatment protocol for PHP is unknown, and there is a need to ascertain whether the addition of ESWT to autoregulated HSRT leads to better outcomes compared to either alone.

Methods

A three‐arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing these groups would be the ideal way to investigate this question, with a pilot RCT testing trial procedures and process evaluation required prior to a definitive RCT. Patients expectations, feasibility and acceptability of combined ESWT and exercise for PHP also remain unknown. Therefore, the addition of qualitative interviews in a mixed‐methods pilot RCT would help ascertain acceptability and help explain the intervention outcomes.
Randomized algorithms for generalized singular value decomposition with application to sensitivity analysis
Authors: Saibaba Arvind K. , Hart Joseph , van Bloemen Waanders Bart
Published: February 2021

The generalized singular value decomposition (GSVD) is a valuable tool that has many applications in computational science. However, computing the GSVD for large‐scale problems is challenging. Motivated by applications in hyper‐differential sensitivity analysis (HDSA), we propose new randomized algorithms for computing the GSVD which use randomized subspace iteration and weighted QR factorization. Detailed error analysis is given which provides insight into the accuracy of the algorithms and the choice of the algorithmic parameters. We demonstrate the performance of our algorithms on test matrices and a large‐scale model problem where HDSA is used to study subsurface flow.
Exploring psychosocial adaptation among people with chronic skin disease: A grounded theory study
Authors: Zhang Xiu‐jie , Xu Hui , Feng Li , Wang Da‐qiu , Wang Ai‐ping
Published: February 2021

Aim

Chronic skin disease (CSD) often has devastating effects on the physiological, psychological and social aspects of patients, who must adapt to them. However, it is not clear how patients adapt, especially with regard to their psychosocial adaptation (PSA). This research explored a theoretical model of PSA among people with CSD.

Design

Following constructivist grounded theory methodology, a qualitative study was undertaken between August 2018 and June 2019.

Methods

Observation and semi‐structured interview were conducted with included participants (n=19). Data were iteratively coded and analyzed by constant comparison following the key stages of initial, focused, axial and theoretical coding until saturation was achieved.

Results

When individuals face the impacts of disease, they try to adjust to adapt it. The findings showed the core category (self‐cognitive) and the contributing categories (impacts of chronic skin disease, contextual factors, physiological experiences, psychological experiences, social experiences, and positive and negative psychosocial adaptations) of the PSA among people with CSD. The process of PSA among people with CSD was not linear throughout the disease and was instead entwined within a set of complexes (contextual factors‐experience) interactions. The consequences of PSA included positive and negative aspects. The theoretical model of PSA among people with CSD will provide us with information needed to develop accurate assessment and effective intervention strategies. Understanding that PSA among people with CSD is a complex, dynamic, and interactional process may provide evidence for further assessing and meeting the needs of people.
Communication as a non‐technical skill in the operating room: A qualitative study
Authors: Skråmm Sisilie Havnås , Smith jacobsen Inger Lise , Hanssen Ingrid
Published: February 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore how operating room nurses (ORNs) experience operating room (OR) team communication concerning non‐technical skills.

Design

Based on the Scrub Practitioners List of Intraoperative Non‐Technical Skill (SPLINTS), qualitative individual in‐depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 11 ORNs in a Norwegian university hospital. Braun and Clarke's six analytic phases for thematic data analysis were used.

Results

Surgeons being unprepared or demanding different instruments than the preoperative information indicates, cause stress and frustration. So does noise and brusquely or poor communication. Ensuring good information flow within the entire team is important. When silence is required, the ORNs communicate with gestures, looks and nods. Creating a positive and secure team culture facilitates discussions, questions and information sharing.

Conclusion

Inappropriate dynamics, inaccurate and/or disrespectful communication and noise may reduce patient safety. Interdisciplinary team training may bring attention to the value of communication as a non‐technical skill.
Shape of BMI–Mortality Risk Associations: Reverse Causality and Heterogeneity in a Representative Cohort of US Adults
Authors: Garcia George R. , Coleman Nathan C. , Pond Zachari A. , Pope C. Arden
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study examines BMI–mortality associations and evaluates strategies intended to limit reverse causality. Heterogeneity in BMI–mortality risk associations across subgroups and causes of death is explored.

Methods

A cohort of 654,382 adults from the US National Health Interview Survey was constructed. Associations between unit BMI levels and mortality were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, including and excluding the first 5 years of follow‐up, with and without controls for smoking or preexisting conditions, and including and excluding ever‐smokers and individuals with preexisting conditions. Stratified analyses by individual characteristics were performed.

Results

Addressing reverse causality led to reduced risk of mortality among those with low BMI levels (<18 kg/m2). Excluding ever‐smokers and individuals with preexisting conditions further led to increased risk among those with high BMI levels (between 33 kg/m2 and >40 kg/m2) and lowered the estimated nadir risk from 27 kg/m2 to 23 kg/m2. After excluding ever‐smokers and individuals with preexisting conditions, limiting the analysis to >5 years of follow‐up produced no substantive changes. Heterogeneous results were observed across individual characteristics, particularly age and causes of death.

Conclusions

The exclusion of smokers and individuals with preexisting conditions alters the BMI–mortality risk association and results in a somewhat lower range of BMI with minimum mortality risk.
Mismatch Repair (MMR) Gene Alteration and BRAF V600E Mutation Are Potential Predictive Biomarkers of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in MMR-Deficient Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sahin Ibrahim Halil , Goyal Subir , Pumpalova Yoanna , Sonbol Mohamad B. , Das Satya , Haraldsdottir Sigurdis , Ahn Daniel , Ciombor Kristen K. , Chen Zhengjia , Draper Amber , Berlin Jordan , Bekaii-Saab Tanios , Lesinski Gregory B. , El-Rayes Bassel F. , Wu Christina
Published: February 2021

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy is highly effective in metastatic mismatch repair-deficient (MMR-D) colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we evaluated molecular and clinical predictors of ICI response in MMR-D CRC.

Materials and Methods

Patient databases at four cancer institutions were queried. The Fisher exact test was performed to test the association of clinical and molecular markers. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate progression-free survival (PFS) and compared by the log-rank test. Twelve- and 24-month PFS rates were compared by the Z test.

Results

A total of 60 patients with CRC with MMR-D/microsatellite instability-high who previously received ICIs were identified. Patients with liver metastasis had a lower overall response rate as compared with other sites of metastasis (36.4% vs. 68.7%; p = .081). Patients with MLH1/PMS2 loss had worse 1-year and 2-year PFS rates compared with patients with MSH2/MSH6 loss (84.2% vs. 57.8% and 78.2% vs. 54.2%, respectively; p < .001). There were improved 1-year and 2-year PFS rates in patients with wild-type BRAF when compared with patients with BRAF V600E mutation (73.3% vs. 40%, and 73.3% vs. 26.7%; respectively; p < .001). Patients aged >65 had significantly worse PFS rates as compared with patients aged ≤65 (p < .001).

Conclusion

BRAF V600E mutation, MLH1 and/or PMS2 loss, as well as age >65 years and liver metastasis, may be predictive of duration of ICI response in patients with MMR-D CRC. Larger cohorts are needed to confirm our findings.

Implications for Practice

The results of this study reveal clinically important biomarkers that potentially predict immune checkpoint inhibitor response in patients with mismatch repair-deficient colorectal cancer.
Family communication about fertility preservation in adolescent males newly diagnosed with cancer
Authors: Olsavsky Anna L. , Theroux Charleen I. , Dattilo Taylor M. , Klosky James L. , O'Brien Sarah H. , Quinn Gwendolyn P. , Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Nahata Leena
Published: February 2021

Background

Approximately half of male childhood cancer survivors experience fertility impairment, which can cause psychological distress. Sperm banking remains underutilized among adolescent males with cancer. Parent recommendation influences banking decisions, yet multi‐informant studies have not been conducted to examine fertility preservation (FP) communication and decision making in this population. This study explored FP communication among mothers, fathers, and their male adolescents newly diagnosed with cancer.

Procedure

Thirty‐three male adolescents, 32 mothers, and 22 fathers completed semi‐structured interviews 1–2 months after cancer diagnosis addressing this question: Tell me more about conversations you had about fertility preservation/sperm banking with your health care providers, parents/son, other family members, or anyone else. Interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic content analysis.

Results

Five process themes emerged: (1) reliance on health care team and social support networks to facilitate FP decisions (only parents); (2) withholding parental opinion and deferring the decision to the adolescent; (3) ease of communication (primarily adolescents); (4) communication barriers/facilitators; (5) not being present or not remembering details of FP conversations with health care providers (primarily fathers and adolescents). Four content themes included: (1) preference for biological (grand)parenthood; (2) consideration of adolescent's future partner's desire for biological parenthood (primarily parents); (3) banking while it is a viable option; (4) openness to alternative parenthood options (e.g., adoption/fostering, primary parents).

Conclusions

Understanding variation in what family members discuss and consider relevant when making FP decisions is an important step toward improving pediatric oncofertility care. Interventions are needed to facilitate family FP‐related conversations and optimize decisional satisfaction over time.
Predicting new protein conformations from molecular dynamics simulation conformational landscapes and machine learning
Authors: Jin Yiming , Johannissen Linus O. , Hay Sam
Published: February 2021

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are a popular method of studying protein structure and function, but are unable to reliably sample all relevant conformational space in reasonable computational timescales. A range of enhanced sampling methods are available that can improve conformational sampling, but these do not offer a complete solution. We present here a proof‐of‐principle method of combining MD simulation with machine learning to explore protein conformational space. An autoencoder is used to map snapshots from MD simulations onto a user‐defined conformational landscape defined by principal components analysis or specific structural features, and we show that we can predict, with useful accuracy, conformations that are not present in the training data. This method offers a new approach to the prediction of new low energy/physically realistic structures of conformationally dynamic proteins and allows an alternative approach to enhanced sampling of MD simulations.
Understanding brain waste: Unequal opportunities for skills development between highly skilled women and men, migrants and nonmigrants
Authors: Riaño Yvonne
Published: February 2021

Brain waste studies seldom analyse the skills development of tertiary‐educated workers according to gender and country of origin. Combining statistical analyses, participatory workshops and 77 qualitative interviews on employment trajectories with highly skilled workers in Switzerland, I offer three contributions. An intersectional perspective reveals unequal opportunities of skills development: Swiss‐born men have the highest rates of employment, income and jobs commensurate with their education, followed by foreign‐born men, then Swiss‐born women and lastly foreign‐born women. Second, a multiscalar perspective shows how actions by individuals, families, employers and the state favour or constrain skills advancement among women and men. Individual perceptions of gender roles and unequal childcare responsibilities within couples constrain women's skills development. Further constraints are set by the state and employers' policies and practices regarding migration, childcare, taxation and hiring. Third, a spatial–temporal perspective unveils that gender inequalities arise at particular moments (migration and childbirth) and places (lacking childcare services and limited employment).
RobustH∞filtering for singular Markovian jump systems via decoupling and substitution principles
Authors: Tian Yu‐Feng , Wang Zhan‐Shan
Published: February 2021

This paper extends the existing results on the robustH∞filtering problem for singular Markovian jump systems. Firstly, the double variables‐based decoupling principle and the variable substitution principle are proposed, respectively. Secondly, the two principles are employed to formulate a robustH∞filter design condition, which ensures the filtering error system to be stochastically admissible and meetH∞performance. Compared with the existing works, this paper fully considers the free structure of introduced slack matrices, which provides extra dimensions in the solution space. It directly leads to the reduction of conservativeness in the filtering solution. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is illustrated by a numerical example.
Synthesis of CdM (M = Se, O) micro and nanoparticles by pulsed laser ablation in water
Authors: Bertel Linda , Ospina Rogelio , García‐Castro Andres C. , Quintero‐Orozco Jorge H. , Miranda David A.
Published: February 2021

The pulsed laser is highly used in optics and material sciences, where the high energy of the laser pulse produces an ablation effect that is applied to the obtention of nanoparticles by impacting a target material. We present a complete methodology that includes the preparation of a CdSe target and the synthesis of CdM (M = Se, O) micro and nanoparticles in water by pulsed laser ablation from the previously prepared CdSe target. The laser energy lets to control the properties of particles; we obtain four CdM micro and nanoparticles samples with four different laser energies, that is, 10.25, 20.72, 30.38, and 39.72 mJ. The best result was achieved with 30.38 mJ; at this energy, we obtain nanoparticles with Z‐average size below 100 nm, confirmed by analysis of dynamic light scattering (DLS). In the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the particles obtained at 30.38 mJ, we observed polydispersity in the sample, in addition to irregularly shaped nanoparticles and particle agglomerations. The analysis of the characterization by UV–Vis, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) suggests the presence of micro and nanoparticles of CdSe and CdO in the sample.
Biogeography and habitat evolution of Saxifragaceae, with a revision of generic limits and a new tribal system
Authors: Folk Ryan A. , Stubbs Rebecca L. , Engle‐Wrye Nicholas J. , Soltis Douglas E. , Okuyama Yudai
Published: February 2021

The family Saxifragaceae, the current composition of which is one of the great surprises of molecular systematics, has been subject to massive improvements in the knowledge of phylogenetic relationships. Nevertheless, developments from phylogenomic efforts have yet to be mobilized to inform biogeography and taxonomy. Here, we use a recent order‐level phylogeny for Saxifragaceae and related families covering 72% of species with a set of new analyses to assess habitat evolution and biogeography. Our results suggest a North American origin of the family in cold alpine habitats, followed by rapid recent evolution of diverse habitat tolerances. We also combine these recent phylogenomic results and a synthesis of the literature to improve generic limits and tribal classification of Saxifragaceae. We recognize 40 genera in 10 tribes, with 14 new combinations, and elevate one subtribe as well as describing four new taxa at the tribal level. Finally, we synthesize information about biogeography and morphology for the family.
Inactivation of Escherichia coli in Ice through DC electric field application and freezing
Authors: Murakami Yuichi , Sato Takunao , Goto Yuma , Muramoto Yuji
Published: February 2021

This study presents the effect of direct current (DC) electric field application on ice sterilization. The sample used was Escherichia coli (JM103) in a 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1 mol/L NaCl aqueous solution. The experimental sample was placed in a cuvette with parallel electrode plates (distance between electrodes: 1 mm) and then cooled at −30 °C or −80 °C for 40 min. After freezing, a 100 V DC voltage was applied to the sample in the freezer with a temperature of −30 °C or −80 °C. Consequently, the survival ratio of E. coli in all samples after freezing was lower than that before freezing due to the freezing injury. In conclusion, we found the bactericidal effect of the DC electric fields in the frozen 0.01 mol/L NaCl samples. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Transcranial ultrasound pulse stimulation reduces cortical atrophy in Alzheimer's patients: A follow‐up study
Authors: Popescu Tudor , Pernet Cyril , Beisteiner Roland
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Ultrasound for the brain is a revolutionary therapeutic concept. The first clinical data indicate that 2–4 weeks of therapy with transcranial pulse stimulation (TPS) improve functional networks and cognitive performance of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients for up to 3 months. No data currently exist on possible benefits concerning brain morphology, namely the cortical atrophy characteristic of AD.

Methods

We performed a pre‐/post‐therapy analysis of cortical thickness in a group of N = 17 AD patients.

Results

We found a significant correlation between neuropsychological improvement and cortical thickness increase in AD‐critical brain areas.

Discussion

AD patients who benefit from TPS appear to manifest reduced cortical atrophy within the default mode network in particular, whose memory‐related subsystems are believed to be disrupted in AD. TPS may therefore hold promise as a new add‐on therapy for AD.
Muslims and climate change: How Islam, Muslim organizations, and religious leaders influence climate change perceptions and mitigation activities
Authors: Koehrsen Jens
Published: February 2021

A growing body of research stresses the importance of religion in understanding and addressing climate change. However, so far, little is known about the relationship between Muslim communities and climate change. Globally, Muslims constitute the second largest faith group, and there is a strong concentration of Muslims in regions that are particularly affected by global warming. This review synthesizes existing research about climate change and Muslim communities. It addresses (a) Islamic environmentalism, (b) Muslim perceptions of climate change, and (c) mitigation strategies of Muslim communities. The analysis shows that there is no uniform interpretation of climate change among Muslims. Based on their interpretations of Islam, Muslims have generated different approaches to climate change. A small section of Muslim environmentalists engages in public campaigning to raise greater concern about climate change, seeks to reduce carbon emissions through sociotechnological transition efforts, and disseminates proenvironmental interpretations of Islam. However, it remains unclear to what extent these activities generate broader changes in the daily activities of Muslim communities and organizations. Contributions to this research field are often theoretical and stress theological and normative aspects of Islam. Empirical studies have particularly addressed Indonesia and the United Kingdom, whereas knowledge about Muslim climate activism in other world regions is fragmented. Against this backdrop, there is a need for comparative studies that consider regional and religious differences among Muslims and address the role of Muslim environmentalism in climate change mitigation and adaptation at the international, national, and local scales.

This article is categorized under:

Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge
Freedom of Movement as a Determinant of Women's Health: Global Analysis and Commentary
Authors: Asi Yara M.
Published: February 2021

The right to health is inseparable from realization of the right to freedom of movement, both of which are recognized as fundamental human rights. However, we continue to see restrictions on a woman's ability to leave her house or country used as political, religious, and social tools of oppression, limiting her right to receive the health care she desires. In this commentary, I will assess how restricting a woman's right to movement also limits her access to health care. First, I will describe why freedom of movement is an important indicator of empowerment and autonomy, especially for women. Then, I describe the factors that limit a women's movement and subsequent access to health care, especially those rooted in social, religious, and cultural norms. Lastly, I propose tangible actions that can immediately afford women access to health services by either overcoming movement restrictions or bypassing them when necessary.
Exceptional nonrelativistic effective field theories with enhanced symmetries
Authors: Brauner Tomáš
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We initiate the classification of nonrelativistic effective field theories (EFTs) for Nambu-Goldstone (NG) bosons, possessing a set of redundant, coordinate-dependent symmetries. Similarly to the relativistic case, such EFTs are natural candidates for “exceptional” theories, whose scattering amplitudes feature an enhanced soft limit, that is, scale with a higher power of momentum at long wavelengths than expected based on the mere presence of Adler’s zero. The starting point of our framework is the assumption of invariance under spacetime translations and spatial rotations. The setup is nevertheless general enough to accommodate a variety of nontrivial kinematical algebras, including the Poincaré, Galilei (or Bargmann) and Carroll algebras. Our main result is an explicit construction of the nonrelativistic versions of two infinite classes of exceptional theories: the multi-Galileon and the multi-flavor Dirac-Born-Infeld (DBI) theories. In both cases, we uncover novel Wess-Zumino terms, not present in their relativistic counterparts, realizing nontrivially the shift symmetries acting on the NG fields. We demonstrate how the symmetries of the Galileon and DBI theories can be made compatible with a nonrelativistic, quadratic dispersion relation of (some of) the NG modes.
A fully basis invariant symmetry map of the 2HDM
Authors: Bento Miguel P. , Boto Rafael , Silva João P. , Trautner Andreas
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We derive necessary and sufficient conditions for all global symmetries of the most general two Higgs doublet model (2HDM) scalar potential entirely in terms of reparametrization independent, i.e. basis invariant, objects. This culminates in what we call a “Symmetry Map” of the parameter space of the model and the fundamental insight that there are, in general, two algebraically distinct ways of how symmetries manifest themselves on basis invariant objects: either, basis invariant objects can be non-trivially related, or, basis covariant objects can vanish. These two options have different consequences on the resulting structure of the ring of basis invariants and on the number of remaining physical parameters. Alongside, we derive for the first time necessary and sufficient conditions for CP conservation in the 2HDM entirely in terms of CP-even quantities. This study lays the methodological foundation for analogous investigations of global symmetries in all other models that have unphysical freedom of reparametrization, most notably the Standard Model flavor sector.
Modified Reynolds Equation for Steady Flow Through a Curved Pipe
Authors: Ghosh A. , Kozlov V. A. , Nazarov S. A.
Published: February 2021

A Reynolds equation governing the steady flow of a fluid through a curvilinear, narrow tube, with its derivation from Navier–Stokes equations through asymptotic methods is presented. The channel considered may have a rather large curvature and torsion. Approximations of the velocity and the pressure of the fluid inside the channel are constructed by artificially imposing appropriate boundary conditions at the inlet and the outlet. A justification for the approximations is provided along with a comparison with a simpler case.
Banach Limit in the Stability Problem of a Linear Functional Equation
Authors: Badora Roman , Brzdęk Janusz
Published: February 2021

We present some applications of the Banach limit in the study of the stability of the linear functional equation in a single variable.