bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imagining democratic societies of the future: Insights from a foresight study
Authors: Vesnic‐Alujevic Lucia
Published: January 2021

This paper explores the future government models and emerging societal challenges in the relationship between citizens and governments. By assessing various factors and their convergence, among which the uptake of participatory governance on the one hand, and the governance of digital technologies and media on the other, four scenarios have been created: DIY Democracy, Private Algocracy, Super Collaborative Government, and Over Regulatocracy. These scenarios, emerged from participatory workshops and based on civic imagination, are used as tools for reflection. They were further employed in conversations with stakeholders to explore new possibilities and challenge preconceived ideas about governments today, as well as assess the redistribution of power relations between societal actors and political institutions as we move toward 2030. The paper concludes by discussing the benefits of civic imagination for thinking about the futures of our democratic societies and the need for broader perspectives and a combination of theoretical and methodological approaches for setting the future policy and research agendas.
The evolution law of functional groups during the heating of coal in oxygen and oxygen‐free atmospheres
Authors: Liu Qian , Lin Baiquan , Zhou Yan , Zheng Yuannan
Published: January 2021

There is a change in both the quantity and type of functional groups due to the fact that they become oxidized and pyrolyzed during the spontaneous coal combustion process. In order to study the oxidation and pyrolysis mechanisms that are at play during the evolution of these functional groups, in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to test the real‐time evolution of these functional groups in both air and argon atmospheres. The differences found between functional groups when under an oxygen oxygen‐free environment were analyzed. The results show that when the temperature exceeds 200 °C, the changes in functional groups steadily increase and that regardless of whether the atmosphere is made up of argon or air, the oxygen‐containing functional groups change significantly. In this situation, −OH, −CH3, and −CH2‐ are important reactants in the whole heating process; −COOH and −C=O are reactants during the low temperature oxidation stage, but when reaching the high temperature stage, they become the products; C‐O‐C and C=C is a stable reaction product. During the coal spontaneous combustion process, oxidation and pyrolysis work as two coupling reactions: The heat released by the oxidation reaction pyrolyzes the macromolecular structure and coal‐oxygen complexes, while a large number of active groups are produced during pyrolysis, which then provides the reactants for the oxidation reaction. These results reveal the changes that functional groups go through during the process of oxidation and pyrolysis, and provide a theoretical basis for the development of efficient fire‐fighting materials. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquidity risk and expected cryptocurrency returns
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Yi
Published: January 2021

This paper examines how liquidity risk is priced in the cross‐section of cryptocurrency returns. In doing so, we use the Amihud measure as a liquidity proxy. By employing the univariate portfolio analysis, the bivariate portfolio analysis, and the Fama‐MacBeth regression analysis, we document a negative relationship between liquidity and cryptocurrency returns. Additional tests demonstrate that this finding is robust to alternative liquidity measurement as well as size screens and show no evidence of a significant intertemporal relationship between liquidity and expected returns for three leading cryptocurrencies. Our conclusions add to the understanding of how markets price cryptocurrencies.
Front Cover
Authors: Gómez‐Varela Ana I. , Gaspar Ricardo , Miranda Adelaide , Assis Juliane L. , Valverde Rafael H.F. , Einicker‐Lamas Marcelo , Silva Bruno F. B. , De Beule Pieter A.A.
Published: January 2021

The dynamics of two different fluorescent dyes labelling DNA and cationic liposomes is monitored through Fluorescence Cross‐Correlation Spectroscopy (FCCS). Measuring the extent of correlation between the flickering of the two dyes as they diffuse in and out of overlapping confocal volumes, the association of DNA and liposomes to form lipoplexes is quantified. This was achieved analysing the correlation with non 1:1 stoichiometric sample description.

Further details can be found in the article by Ana I. Gómez‐Varela, Ricardo Gaspar, Adelaide Miranda, Juliane L. Assis, Rafael H.F. Valverde, Marcelo Einicker‐Lamas, Bruno F. B. Silva, and Pieter A.A. De Beule (e202000200).

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N‐arachidonoyl dopamine inhibits epithelial–mesenchymal transition of breast cancer cells through ERK signaling and decreasing the cellular cholesterol
Authors: Bandyopadhayaya Shreetama , Akimov Mikhail G. , Verma Ranjeet , Sharma Ankit , Sharma Divya , Kundu Gopal C. , Gretskaya Natalia M. , Bezuglov Vladimir V. , Mandal Chandi C.
Published: January 2021

N‐acyl dopamines (NADAs) are bioactive lipids of the endovanilloid family with known cytotoxicity for the cancer cells; however, the available data on the participation of the endovanilloids in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness are controversial. This study unveils the inhibitory role of N‐arachidonoyl dopamine (AA‐DA), a typical representative of the NADA family, in breast cancer cell migration, EMT, and stemness. AA‐DA treatment also led to a decrease in cholesterol biosynthesis gene expressions, and addition of exogenous cholesterol reverted these AA‐DA‐mediated inhibitory effects. Notably, AA‐DA treatment inhibited the key regulatory gene of the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, sterol regulatory element‑binding protein 1 (SREBP1), with concurrent repression of the endoplasmic reticulum kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway. Furthermore, U0126, an ERK inhibitor, inhibited SREBP1 and decreased cellular cholesterol level, unwinding the molecular mechanism behind AA‐DA‐mediated anticancer activity. Thus, we, for the first time, revealed that AA‐DA counteracts breast cancer EMT via inhibition of ERK signaling and cholesterol content.
Environmental exposures and the etiopathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease: The potential role of BACE1 as a critical neurotoxic target
Authors: Syeda Tauqeerunnisa , Cannon Jason R.
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major public health crisis due to devastating cognitive symptoms, a lack of curative treatments, and increasing prevalence. Most cases are sporadic (>95% of cases) after the age of 65 years, implicating an important role of environmental factors in disease pathogenesis. Environmental neurotoxicants have been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's Disease and AD. Animal models of AD and in vitro studies have shed light on potential neuropathological mechanisms, yet the biochemical and molecular underpinnings of AD‐relevant environmental neurotoxicity remain poorly understood. Beta‐site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is a potentially critical pathogenic target of environmentally induced neurotoxicity. BACE1 clearly has a critical role in AD pathophysiology: It is required for amyloid beta production and expression and activity of BACE1 are increased in the AD brain. Though the literature on BACE1 in response to environmental insults is limited, current studies, along with extensive AD neurobiology literature suggest that BACE1 deserves attention as an important neurotoxic target. Here, we critically review research on environmental neurotoxicants such as metals, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, polyfluoroalkyl substances, heterocyclic aromatic amines, advanced glycation end products, and acrolein that modulate BACE1 and potential mechanisms of action. Though more research is needed to clearly understand whether BACE1 is a critical mediator of AD‐relevant neurotoxicity, available reports provide convincing evidence that BACE1 is altered by environmental risk factors associated with AD pathology, implying that BACE1 inhibition and its use as a biomarker should be considered in AD management and research.
Lung cancer cell‐derived EDA‐containing fibronectin induces an inflammatory response from monocytes and promotes metastatic tumor microenvironment
Authors: Amin Asif , Mokhdomi Taseem A. , Bukhari Shoiab , Wani Zubair , Chikan Naveed A. , Shah Basit A. , Koul Aabid M. , Majeed Umer , Farooq Faizah , Qadri Ayub , Qadri Raies A.
Published: January 2021

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) play a pivotal role in facilitating tumor growth and metastasis. This tumor‐promoting propensity of TAMs sets in as a result of their complex cross‐talk with tumor cells mediated primarily by tumor cell‐secreted proteins in the tumor microenvironment. To explore such interactions, we employed an immunoscreening approach involving the immunization of Balb‐c mice with model human lung carcinoma cell line, A549. From serological examination combined with mass spectrometric analysis, EDA‐containing fibronectin (EDAFN) was identified as a conspicuous immunogenic protein in A549 cell secretome. We showed that A549 secreted EDAFN engages TLR‐4 on THP‐1 monocytes to drive the proinflammatory response via NF‐κB signaling cascade. Conversely, A549 derived EDAFN potentiates their metastatic capacity by inducing epithelial–mesenchymal transition through its autocrine activity. In conclusion, the study proposes a possible mechanism of cellular cross‐talk between lung cancer cells and associated monocytes mediated by lung cancer‐derived EDAFN and resulting in the establishment of proinflammatory and metastatic tumor microenvironment.
A community‐specific framework of risk factors for youth violence: A qualitative comparison of community stakeholder perspectives in a low‐income, urban community
Authors: Ross Katherine M. , Sullivan Terri , O'Connor Kelly , Hitti Stephanie , Leiva Manuel N.
Published: January 2021

This study offers a qualitative comparison of risk factors for youth violence from the perspectives of community stakeholders in a low‐income, urban community experiencing elevated rates of violence. One‐on‐one interviews were conducted with 36 community stakeholders across three key categories: 10 community residents who cared for youth living in the community, 15 program or service providers, and 11 leaders in community agencies and organizations. A grounded theory approach was used for data collection and analysis to extract themes that emerged from the question, “What are the things in the community that lead to youth violence?” While there was significant overlap in stakeholders’ beliefs about precursors to youth violence, important differences also emerged. In order for youth violence prevention strategies to be successful, they must consider and address risk factors identified by community stakeholders involved in the implementation and sustainability.
Improving the school environment: School staff perceptions of school climate data and reporting practices
Authors: Debnam Katrina J. , Edwards Kelly , Cornell Dewey
Published: January 2021

School climate surveys have become widely used in U.S. schools, but there is little information on whether school leaders engage teachers and other staff in the process of reviewing and making use of survey results. This mixed‐methods study examined staff interest, viewing, and use of survey results in a state that administers a school climate survey. Semistructured interviews with 15 staff members were conducted to gain insight into quantitative results from 16,525 staff members in 318 high schools. Survey data showed that although 84% of school staff were interested in seeing the results of their school climate survey, fewer than one‐third reported seeing the results or using them for school planning or improvement. Administrators were more likely than teachers and other staff to have seen and used survey results. Content coding of the qualitative data elaborated on staff interest in reviewing and using climate data. These findings highlight the need for school leaders to collaborate with school staff on interpreting and using survey results for school climate improvement efforts.
Help‐Seeking Behaviors of African Americans After a Loss
Authors: Matthews Jennifer J. , Fonseca Fiona D. , Varnado‐Johnson Chantrelle Deron
Published: January 2021

We investigated attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help, ethnic identity, and complicated grief symptoms among 86 African Americans after they experienced the death of a loved one. There were no significant correlations among ethnic identity, help‐seeking attitude, and complicated grief symptoms. Multiple regression analyses indicated that gender and education level predicted help‐seeking attitude, F(2, 84) = 4.64, p < .05, and that gender, education level, and religious affiliation predicted complicated grief symptoms, F(3, 79) = 3.73, p < .05. We explore the results, implications, and areas for future research.

Investigamos las actitudes hacia la búsqueda de ayuda psicológica profesional, la identidad étnica y los síntomas de duelo complicado en 86 personas afroamericanas tras experimentar la muerte de un ser querido. No se hallaron correlaciones significativas entre la identidad étnica, la actitud de búsqueda de ayuda y los síntomas de duelo complicado. Los análisis de regresión múltiple indicaron que el sexo y el nivel de educación pronosticaron la actitud de búsqueda de ayuda, F(2, 84) = 4.64, p < .05, y que el sexo, el nivel de educación y la afiliación religiosa pronosticaron los síntomas de duelo complicado, F(3, 79) = 3.73, p < .05. Exploramos los resultados, implicaciones y áreas para investigaciones futuras.
Morphological research on amniote eggs and embryos: An introduction and historical retrospective
Authors: Blackburn Daniel G. , Stewart James. R.
Published: January 2021

Evolution of the terrestrial egg of amniotes (reptiles, birds, and mammals) is often considered to be one of the most significant events in vertebrate history. Presence of an eggshell, fetal membranes, and a sizeable yolk allowed this egg to develop on land and hatch out well‐developed, terrestrial offspring. For centuries, morphologically‐based studies have provided valuable information about the eggs of amniotes and the embryos that develop from them. This review explores the history of such investigations, as a contribution to this special issue ofJournal of Morphology, titledDevelopmental Morphology and Evolution of Amniote Eggs and Embryos. Anatomically‐based investigations are surveyed from the ancient Greeks through the Scientific Revolution, followed by the 19th and early 20th centuries, with a focus on major findings of historical figures who have contributed significantly to our knowledge. Recent research on various aspects of amniote eggs is summarized, including gastrulation, egg shape and eggshell morphology, eggs of Mesozoic dinosaurs, sauropsid yolk sacs, squamate placentation, embryogenesis, and the phylotypic phase of embryonic development. As documented in this review, studies on amniote eggs and embryos have relied heavily on morphological approaches in order to answer functional and evolutionary questions.
Inflammation‐associated factors for predicting in‐hospital mortality in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Wang Jun‐Hong , Chen Ru‐Dong , Yang Hong‐Kuan , Zeng Ling‐Cheng , Chen Hao , Hou Yu‐Yang , Hu Wei , Yu Jia‐Sheng , Li Hua
Published: January 2021

The aim is to explore the relation between inflammation‐associated factors and in‐hospital mortality and investigate which factor is an independent predictor of in‐hospital death in patients with coronavirus disease‐2019. This study included patients with coronavirus disease‐2019, who were hospitalized between February 9, 2020, and March 30, 2020. Univariate Cox regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression (LASSO) were used to select variables. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was applied to identify independent risk factors in coronavirus disease‐2019. A total of 1135 patients were analyzed during the study period. A total of 35 variables were considered to be risk factors after the univariate regression analysis of the clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters (p < .05), and LASSO regression analysis screened out seven risk factors for further study. The six independent risk factors revealed by multivariate Cox regression were myoglobin (HR, 5.353; 95% CI, 2.633–10.882; p < .001), C‐reactive protein (HR, 2.063; 95% CI, 1.036–4.109; p = .039), neutrophil count (HR, 2.015; 95% CI, 1.154–3.518; p = .014), interleukin 6 (Il‐6; HR, 9.753; 95% CI, 2.952–32.218; p < .001), age (HR, 2.016; 95% CI, 1.077–3.773; p = .028), and international normalized ratio (HR, 2.595; 95% CI, 1.412–4.769; p = .002). Our results suggested that inflammation‐associated factors were significantly associated with in‐hospital mortality in coronavirus disease‐2019 patients. C‐reactive protein, neutrophil count, and interleukin 6 were independent factors for predicting in‐hospital mortality and had a better independent predictive ability. We believe these findings may allow early identification of the patients at high risk for death, and can also assist in better management of these patients.
COVID‐19 screening test by using random oropharyngeal saliva
Authors: Rao Mohan , Rashid Fairuz A. , Sabri Fashihah S. A. H. , Jamil Nur Nadia , Seradja Valentinus , Abdullah Nurul A. , Ahmad Hanisah , Aren S. L. , Ali Shareh A. S. , Ghazali Mawaddah , Manaf Anizan A. , Talib Harishah , Hashim Rohaidah , Zain Rozainanee , Thayan Ravindran , Amran Fairuz , Aris Tahir , Ahmad Norazah
Published: January 2021

An optimal clinical specimen for accurate detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) by minimizing the usage of consumables and reduce hazard exposure to healthcare workers is an urgent priority. The diagnostic performance of SARS‐CoV‐2 detection between healthcare worker‐collected nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal (NP + OP) swabs and patient performed self‐collected random saliva was assessed. Paired NP + OP swabs and random saliva were collected and processed within 48 h of specimen collection from two cohort studies which recruited 562 asymptomatic adult candidates. Real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction targeting Open reading frame 1a (ORF1a) and nucleocapsid (N) genes was performed and the results were compared. Overall, 65 of 562 (28.1%) candidates tested positive for COVID‐19 based on random saliva, NP + OP swabs, or both testing techniques. The detection rate of SARS‐CoV‐2 was higher in random saliva compared to NP + OP testing (92.3%; 60/65 vs. 73.8%; 48/65; p < .05). The estimated sensitivity and specificity of random saliva were higher than NP + OP swabs (95.0; 99.9 vs. 72.2; 99.4). The Ct values of ORF1a and N genes were significantly lower in random saliva compared to NP + OP swabs specimens. Our findings demonstrate that random saliva is an alternative diagnostic specimen for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2. Self‐collected random oropharyngeal saliva is a valuable specimen that provides accurate SARS‐CoV‐2 surveillance testing of a community.
Responsiveness to bepridil predicts atrial substrate in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yakabe Daisuke , Fukuyama Yusuke , Araki Masahiro , Nakamura Toshihiro
Published: January 2021

Background

The low voltage zone (LVZ) detected with three‐dimensional electroanatomical mapping is a surrogate marker of atrial scar in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) and is associated with poor clinical outcomes after catheter ablation. However, fewer studies have reported the relationship between responsiveness to antiarrhythmic drugs and the LVZ.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 76 patients who underwent catheter ablation for PeAF at our center. Rhythm control with bepridil was initiated before ablation in all patients, and electrical cardioversion was performed in cases of failure to restore sinus rhythm with bepridil alone. Patients with successful sinus restoration with bepridil alone (≤200 mg/d) were defined as “responders”, while those who required electrical cardioversion as well were defined as “non‐responders”. We compared the LVZ ratio (ratio of the LVZ surface area to the left atrium surface area on three‐dimensional electroanatomical mapping) and the recurrence‐free rate after ablation between the two groups.

Results

Of the 76 patients, 48 (63.2%) were responders to bepridil. The median LVZ ratio was significantly lower in the responder group than in the nonresponder group (7.5% vs 14.0%, P = .009). Multivariate analysis revealed that response to bepridil was an independent predictor of normal voltage (P = .02, odds ratio = 0.20, 95% confidence interval = 0.04‐0.76). The recurrence‐free rate at 1 year after catheter ablation was significantly higher in the responder group than in the nonresponder group (87.1% vs 62.3%, P = .03).

Conclusions

Response to bepridil is a marker of normal voltage in electroanatomical mapping and is significantly associated with better clinical outcomes after catheter ablation.
Relationship between the degree of renal dysfunction and the safety and efficacy outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation receiving direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Wada Ryo , Shinohara Masaya , Nakanishi Rine , Kinosihita Toshio , Yuzawa Hitomi , Ikeda Takanori
Published: January 2021

Background

The clinical evaluation of a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with renal dysfunction has not been sufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of DOACs for patients with a severely impaired renal function.

Methods

This was a retrospective and observational study in a single center. We enrolled 894 consecutive AF patients who were prescribed DOACs, and divided them into three groups based on their creatinine clearance (CrCl) value: CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min group (n = 634), CrCl 30‐49 mL/min group (n = 207), and CrCl 15‐29 mL/min group (n = 53). We evaluated the occurrence of major bleeding (MB) as the safety outcome and thromboembolic events (TEs) as the efficacy outcome during the follow‐up.

Results

The incidence of MB in the CrCl 15‐29 mL/min group was significantly higher than in the other groups (CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min group, 0.8/100 person‐years; CrCl 30‐49 mL/min group, 1.2/100 person‐years; CrCl 15‐29 mL/min group, 9.0/100 person‐years, log rank test, P < .001). On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the incidence of TEs among the three groups. A multivariate analysis using a Cox proportional hazard model adjusted for the age revealed that the CrCl 15‐29 mL/min group was significantly associated with increased MB compared to the CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min group (hazard ratio: 9.76, 95% confidence interval: 2.69‐35.5, P < .001). Similar results were observed when adjusting for other multiple clinical factors.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the degree of renal dysfunction was a significant prognostic factor for MB in AF patients receiving DOACs.
Assessment of cultured media for desert moss crust by physiological responses
Authors: Tao Ling , Ren Hanru , Ren Jun
Published: January 2021

The physiological responses of desert moss crusts under four artificial media (Beneck, Part, BG11, and Hogland) were investigated to evaluate the function of culture media during different culture periods. The results showed that the value of malondialdehyde (MDA) was at a maximum at 11d, on the contrary, chlorophyll‐a, soluble protein, and soluble sugar were at a minimum. As the time increased, the value of MDA and soluble protein decreased faster in the Hogland, while the value of chlorophyll‐a and soluble sugar increased. At the end of the culture period, the value of chlorophyll‐a and soluble sugar was at a maximum in the Hogland, while the value of MDA and soluble protein was at a minimum. The results suggested that the Hogland medium had a promoting effect on the growth of desert moss crusts. The selected artificial cultivation medium towards wider and larger scale field applications of cultural desert biocrust was widely anticipated.
Phase transition and trigger mechanism of initial reaction under pressure for benzofuroxan energetic materials: Raman spectroscopy and first‐principle calculations
Authors: Peng Yajing , Sun Shuang , Meng Jianing , Liu Yuhui , Song Yunfei , Yang Yanqiang
Published: January 2021

Low‐pressure (below 2 GPa) Raman spectra of benzofuroxan are investigated using a gasketed Mao–Bell‐type sapphire anvil cell and Raman spectrometer to clarify the pressure‐induced structural change and molecular vibration behavior. The first‐principle calculations are performed to compare with the experimental data and to analyze the phase transition and trigger mechanism of initial reaction. Variations of pressure‐induced Raman band width, shift, and intensity are examined. The results show that the benzofuroxan molecule will become nonplanar with increasing pressure. A phase transition occurs because of an abrupt redshift in shift–pressure relationship and reduction of the cell volume, appearing of a new vibration band above 0.13 GPa. Several active vibration modes are found, and the effects of the active mode vibrations on the initial decomposition of benzofuroxan are analyzed using the relaxed scan method for the main change in bond length, bond angle, or dihedral angle to obtain the optimal reaction channel leading to initial decomposition. The results demonstrate that the initial decomposition is the open‐loop reaction in N(O)–O position, which is originated from the increase of dihedral angle O‐C‐N(O)‐O from the out‐of‐plane torsional vibration of furoxan ring (518 cm−1). The scanning energy barrier related to dihedral angle O‐C‐N(O)‐O is about 22.6 kcal/mol, which is consistent with the calculated activation barrier (18.1 kcal/mol) of open‐loop reaction. This proves the reliability of our conclusions.
Efficacy of Absorbable Steroid‐Impregnated Nasal Packing in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhang Michael , Ryan Peter J. , Shashinder Singh
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of absorbable steroid‐impregnated nasal packing on postoperative outcomes following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted as per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Twelve databases (including Journals@Ovid, Embase®, Medline®, EBM Reviews and Joanna Briggs Institute EBP Database) were searched using relevant keywords and expanded with corresponding MeSH/Emtree terms. Results were narrowed to English articles assessing the efficacy of absorbable packing impregnated with steroids post‐production placed at time of surgery under general anesthetic, with hollow‐lumen devices and devices inserted in‐office excluded.

Results

Eight studies met criteria and were included in this review. Five evaluated the efficacy of the intervention in only CRS with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) patients, two included all subtypes of CRS, and one included only CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP). Of the eight studies, four studied the efficacy of Nasopore®, three studied bioabsorbable gels, and one studied bioabsorbable calcium alginate. Four studies applied triamcinolone as the operative steroid, with the other studies utilizing betamethasone, budesonide, mometasone, and dexamethasone. Seven studies demonstrated statistically significant improvements in endoscopic outcomes using validated scoring scales, albeit at differing timepoints. The one study which included only CRSsNP patients failed to find a significant difference.

Conclusion

Steroid‐impregnated nasal packing appears to have positive effects on postoperative endoscopic outcomes in CRSwNP patients undergoing FESS. Additional research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of these interventions in more recently defined subtypes of CRS, and whether these interventions differ in their efficacy in eosinophilic and non‐eosinophilic CRS. Laryngoscope, 131:1704–1714, 2021
A Biomimetic Glue Protein Modulates Hepatic Gene Expression
Authors: Lu Yi , Dai Wentao , Huang Jianhua , Chen Xuexin , Yao Yuan
Published: January 2021

Glue protein as secretion from fruit fly larva plays a significant role in metamorphosis as cementing material for pupation sites. However, the biochemical composition of this macromolecule remains obscure. This study takes the advantage of high‐resolution proteomic analysis to unveil the protein compositions. A glue protein group is identified as chitin‐binding motifs by bioinformatic analysis. Computational modeling analysis of representative proteins illustrates the binding site between protein and chitin. A biosynthetic approach is used to fabricate a glue protein by a modified Escherichia coli recombinant system. The as‐biosynthesized biomimetic glue protein is applied as an extracellular matrix to investigate its biocompatibility and functionality. It is found that the purified recombinant protein shows enhanced performance to cellular viability. This finding provides a potential biomacromolecule candidate as an extracellular matrix for cell culture.
Multifunctionality in Polymer Networks by Dynamic of Coordination Bonds
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Rešetič Andraž , Behl Marc , Lendlein Andreas
Published: January 2021

The need for multifunctional materials is driven by emerging technologies and innovations, such as in the field of soft robotics and tactile or haptic systems, where minimizing the number of operational components is not only desirable, but can also be essential for realizing such devices. This study report on designing a multifunctional soft polymer material that can address a number of operating requirements such as solvent resistance, reshaping ability, self‐healing capability, fluorescence stimuli‐responsivity, and anisotropic structural functions. The numerous functional abilities are associated to rhodium(I)–phosphine coordination bonds, which in a polymer network act with their dynamic and non‐covalently bonded nature as multifunctional crosslinks. Reversible aggregation of coordination bonds leads to changes in fluorescence emission intensity that responds to chemical or mechanical stimuli. The fast dynamics and diffusion of rhodium–phosphine ions across and through contacting areas of the material provide for reshaping and self‐healing abilities that can be further exploited for assembly of multiple pieces into complex forms, all without any loss to material‐sensing capabilities.
Dynamik als Schlüssel zur elektrokatalytischen Aktivierung von Kupfer
Authors: Auer Andrea , Kunze‐Liebhäuser Julia
Published: January 2021

Elektrokatalysatoren für die Brennstoffzellentechnologie bestehen häufig aus seltenen, edlen Metallen wie Platin, die teuer und schwer verfügbar sind. Nun ist es gelungen nachzuweisen, dass leicht erhältliches Kupfer Kohlenstoffmonoxid, ein wichtiges Reaktionsintermediat, durch kontinuierliche, dynamische Umstrukturierung seiner Oberfläche effizient oxidieren kann. Modellberechnungen zeigen: Kupfer‐Cluster sind eine Voraussetzung für die hohe Aktivität.
Unscheinbare Blätter mit interessanter Wirkung
Authors: Schlichting Hans‐Joachim
Published: January 2021

Blätter von Bäumen können als Isolatoren und Absorber von Wärme fungieren und dank dieser Eigenschaft im Winter zu auffälligen und physikalisch interessanten Erscheinungen führen.
Semiparametric MEWMA for Phase II profile monitoring
Authors: Nassar Sara H. , Abdel‐Salam Abdel‐Salam G.
Published: January 2021

A control chart is one of the statistical process techniques that is used to monitor different processes. Some processes are characterized by functions or profiles, and a profile is a functional relationship between the dependent and independent variable(s) used to monitor the quality of the process. Several research studies were conducted on linear profiling where only fixed effects are considered. However, in this research, we focus on random effects as they represent the differences between profiles and thus are more proper for interpretation. Two approaches are proposed in this study for Phase II profile monitoring; the first approach is the nonparametric via residuals and the second is the semiparametric approach, where this technique combines the parametric estimates with a portion of the nonparametric estimates to the residuals. Usually, parametric estimations lead to biased estimates when the model is misspecified, whereas nonparametric estimates may give high variances, and thus semiparametric estimates are preferred. New nonparametric and semiparametric multivariate exponential weighted moving average (MEWMA) control charts are introduced and their performances compared to the parametric approach for different samples and shift sizes, and the correlation between and within profiles was considered. The average run length (ARL) and average time to signal (ATS) criteria are used for choosing the best approach. Simulation studies and real datasets were utilized for comparing the performance of the proposed MEWMA charts.
Transition Metal‐Free Synthesis of Carbo‐ and Heterocycles via Reaction of Alkynes with Organylchalcogenides
Authors: Zeni Gilson , Godoi Benhur , Jurinic Carla K. , Belladona Andrei L. , Schumacher Ricardo F.
Published: January 2021

This manuscript intends to overview the most recent advances in the synthesis of carbo‐ and heterocycles through reactions of alkynes with organyl chalcogenides (S, Se, Te) under metal‐free conditions. Firstly, the use of electrophilic chalcogenyl halides as a selective reagent for alkyne carbon‐carbon triple bond activation will be presented. After that, radical cyclization protocols employing electrochemical oxidative conditions, light‐induced photoredox catalysis, or mild oxidants with direct chalcogenyl group installation will be discussed accompanied by the proposed mechanisms.
Comparison in the performance of magnetic field–induced MBBR‐coupled with advanced oxidation processes for textile effluent treatment with cost estimation
Authors: K. J. Sosamony , P. A. Soloman
Published: January 2021

Direct biological treatment of textile effluent is not amicable as its biodegradability index (BI) is low. This study has focused on the feasibility of improving the biodegradability by pretreating the effluent using advanced oxidation processes, namely homogeneous solar photo‐Fenton (HSPF) and advanced solar photo‐Fenton (ASPF) processes and subsequent treatment through moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) exposed with a magnetic field. In the ASPF process, biosynthesized nano zero‐valent iron in place of Fe2+ has been used. Enhancement in biodegradability after pretreatments has been confirmed by the BI, kinetic coefficients, and toxicity test. The satisfactory physical state of the sludge has been ensured by an improved sludge volume index of the pretreated effluents. The effluents after pretreatments have been undergone treatment through moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) after inducing the magnetic field and found that the treated effluent can be disposed of either into irrigation water or into inland waters conforming to the standards of effluent parameters. Carrier materials inoculated with predominant bacteria present in the textile sludge identified by the 16S rRNA method have been used in the MBBR. The parameters affecting the photo‐Fenton and MBBR treatment have been optimized using the Box–Behnken design in response surface methodology. The cost of the two integrated processes (HSPF+MBBR and ASPF+MBBR) has also been compared and it is found that the ASPF–MBBR integrated process proved slightly less expensive.
Correction to: An open-label, positron emission tomography study of the striatal D2/D3 receptor occupancy and pharmacokinetics of single-dose oral brexpiprazole in healthy participants
Authors: Wong Dean F. , Raoufinia Arash , Bricmont Patricia , Brašić James R. , McQuade Robert D. , Forbes Robert A. , Kikuchi Tetsuro , Kuwabara Hiroto
Published: January 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s00228-020-03071-z
Fate of the Left Pulmonary Artery and Thoracic Aorta After Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure in Low Birth Weight Premature Infants
Authors: Markush Dor , Tsing Jennifer C. , Gupta Surbhi , Berndsen Nicole C. , Radville Geena , Garg Ruchira , Zahn Evan M. , Almeida-Jones Myriam
Published: January 2021

Transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus closure (TCPC) is an emerging treatment for low birth weight extremely premature neonates (EPNs). Left pulmonary artery (LPA) and descending aorta (DAO) obstruction are described device-related complications, however, data on mid- and long-term vascular outcomes are lacking. A retrospective analysis of EPNs who underwent successful TCPC at our institution from 03/2013 to 12/2018 was performed. Two-dimensional echocardiography and spectral Doppler velocities from various time points before and after TCPC were used to identify LPA and DAO flow disturbances. A total of 44 EPNs underwent successful TCPC at a median (range) procedural weight of 1150 g (755–2500 g). Thirty-two (73%) patients were closed with the AVP II and 12 (27%) with the Amplatzer Piccolo device. LPA and DAO velocities on average remained within normal limits and improved spontaneously in long-term follow up (26.1 months, range 1–75 months). One patient, who had concerning LPA flow characteristics immediately after device implant (peak velocity 2.6 m/s) developed progressive LPA stenosis requiring stent placement 3 months post-procedure. In the remaining infants, including 7 (16%) who developed LPA and 3 (7%) who developed DAO flow disturbances (range 2–2.4 m/s), all had progressive normalization of flow velocities over time. TCPC can be performed safely in EPNs with a low incidence of LPA and DAO obstruction. In the absence of significant progressive vascular obstruction in the early post-procedure period, mild increases in LPA and DAO flow velocities tend to improve spontaneously and normalize in long-term follow-up.
NUIST ESM v3 Data Submission to CMIP6
Authors: Cao Jian , Ma Libin , Liu Fei , Chai Jing , Zhao Haikun , He Qiong , Wang Bo , Bao Yan , Li Juan , Yang Young-min , Deng Hua , Wang Bin
Published: January 2021

This paper introduces the experimental designs and outputs of the Diagnostic, Evaluation and Characterization of Klima (DECK), historical, Scenario Model Intercomparison Project (MIP), and Paleoclimate MIP (PMIP) experiments from the Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology Earth System Model version 3 (NESM3). Results show that NESM3 reasonably simulates the modern climate and the major internal modes of climate variability. In the Scenario MIP experiment, changes in the projected surface air temperature (SAT) show robust “Northern Hemisphere (NH) warmer than Southern Hemisphere (SH)” and “land warmer than ocean” patterns, as well as an El Niño-like warming over the tropical Pacific. Changes in the projected precipitation exhibit “NH wetter than SH” and “eastern hemisphere gets wetter and western hemisphere gets drier” patterns over the tropics. These precipitation patterns are driven by circulation changes owing to the inhomogeneous warming patterns. Two PMIP experiments show enlarged seasonal cycles of SAT and precipitation over the NH due to the seasonal redistribution of solar radiation. Changes in the climatological mean SAT, precipitation, and ENSO amplitudes are consistent with the results from PMIP4 models. The NESM3 outputs are available on the Earth System Grid Federation nodes for data users.
Erratum zu: Geschulte Schlaganfall-Helferinnen und Schlaganfall-Helfer
Authors: Bilda Kerstin , Stricker Stefan
Published: January 2021

Ein Erratum zu dieser Publikation wurde veröffentlicht: 10.1007/s00391-020-01816-0
Lungenmanifestationen bei adulten rheumatischen Erkrankungen
Authors: Ewig S. , Bollow M.
Published: January 2021

Hintergrund

Rheumatologische Erkrankungen gehen häufig mit einer Lungenbeteiligung einher. Alle anatomischen Strukturen der Lunge können dabei betroffen sein. Für Lungengerüsterkrankungen gilt ein System der Muster, mit denen sie sich in der HR-CT der Lunge präsentieren. Rheumatologische Erkrankungen können unterschiedliche HR-CT-Muster aufweisen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Systematische Beschreibung der Lungenbefallsmuster rheumatologischer Erkrankungen.

Material und Methoden

Narratives Review auf dem Boden der aktuellen Literatur zum Thema aus rheumatologischer, pneumologischer und radiologischer Sicht.

Ergebnisse

Eine Lungenbeteiligung ist häufig und prognostisch relevant. Die Zusammenfassung der Lungenbefallsmuster zeigt bei entzündlich rheumatologischen Erkrankungen eine hohe Variabilität hinsichtlich der bevorzugt befallenen anatomischen Strukturen als auch der bevorzugten Muster interstitieller Manifestationen. Prognostische Implikationen und wesentliche diagnostische Befunde werden synoptisch dargestellt.

Diskussion

Jede hier aufgeführte rheumatologische Erkrankung kann mit einer Lungenbeteiligung einhergehen. Eine systematische diagnostische Evaluation ist daher bei Erstdiagnose und im Verlauf immer angezeigt. Neben Klinik und Lungenfunktion ist die HR-CT der Lunge für die Diagnostik entscheidend.
Mitochondrial bioenergetic deficits in C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis motor neurons cause dysfunctional axonal homeostasis
Authors: Mehta Arpan R. , Gregory Jenna M. , Dando Owen , Carter Roderick N. , Burr Karen , Nanda Jyoti , Story David , McDade Karina , Smith Colin , Morton Nicholas M. , Mahad Don J. , Hardingham Giles E. , Chandran Siddharthan , Selvaraj Bhuvaneish T.
Published: January 2021

Axonal dysfunction is a common phenotype in neurodegenerative disorders, including in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), where the key pathological cell-type, the motor neuron (MN), has an axon extending up to a metre long. The maintenance of axonal function is a highly energy-demanding process, raising the question of whether MN cellular energetics is perturbed in ALS, and whether its recovery promotes axonal rescue. To address this, we undertook cellular and molecular interrogation of multiple patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell lines and patient autopsy samples harbouring the most common ALS causing mutation, C9orf72. Using paired mutant and isogenic expansion-corrected controls, we show that C9orf72 MNs have shorter axons, impaired fast axonal transport of mitochondrial cargo, and altered mitochondrial bioenergetic function. RNAseq revealed reduced gene expression of mitochondrially encoded electron transport chain transcripts, with neuropathological analysis of C9orf72-ALS post-mortem tissue importantly confirming selective dysregulation of the mitochondrially encoded transcripts in ventral horn spinal MNs, but not in corresponding dorsal horn sensory neurons, with findings reflected at the protein level. Mitochondrial DNA copy number was unaltered, both in vitro and in human post-mortem tissue. Genetic manipulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in C9orf72 MNs corrected the bioenergetic deficit and also rescued the axonal length and transport phenotypes. Collectively, our data show that loss of mitochondrial function is a key mediator of axonal dysfunction in C9orf72-ALS, and that boosting MN bioenergetics is sufficient to restore axonal homeostasis, opening new potential therapeutic strategies for ALS that target mitochondrial function.
Optimisation and evaluation of the random forest model in the efficacy prediction of chemoradiotherapy for advanced cervical cancer based on radiomics signature from high-resolution T2 weighted images
Authors: Liu Defeng , Zhang Xiaohang , Zheng Tao , Shi Qinglei , Cui Yujie , Wang Yongji , Liu Lanxiang
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Our objective was to establish a random forest model and to evaluate its predictive capability of the treatment effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy–radiation therapy.

Methods

This retrospective study included 82 patients with locally advanced cervical cancer who underwent scanning from March 2013 to May 2018. The random forest model was established and optimised based on the open source toolkit scikit-learn. Byoptimising of the number of decision trees in the random forest, the criteria for selecting the final partition index and the minimum number of samples partitioned by each node, the performance of random forest in the prediction of the treatment effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy–radiation therapy on advanced cervical cancer (> IIb) was evaluated.

Results

The number of decision trees in the random forests influenced the model performance. When the number of decision trees was set to 10, 25, 40, 55, 70, 85 and 100, the performance of random forest model exhibited an increasing trend first and then a decreasing one. The criteria for the selection of final partition index showed significant effects on the generation of decision trees. The Gini index demonstrated a better effect compared with information gain index. The area under the receiver operating curve for Gini index attained a value of 0.917.

Conclusion

The random forest model showed potential in predicting the treatment effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy–radiation therapy based on high-resolution T2WIs for advanced cervical cancer (> IIb).
Procedural virtual reality simulation training for robotic surgery: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Raison Nicholas , Harrison Patrick , Abe Takashige , Aydin Abdullatif , Ahmed Kamran , Dasgupta Prokar
Published: January 2021

Background

Virtual reality (VR) training is widely used for surgical training, supported by comprehensive, high-quality validation. Technological advances have enabled the development of procedural-based VR training. This study assesses the effectiveness of procedural VR compared to basic skills VR in minimally invasive surgery.

Methods

26 novice participants were randomised to either procedural VR (n = 13) or basic VR simulation (n = 13). Both cohorts completed a structured training programme. Simulator metric data were used to plot learning curves. All participants then performed parts of a robotic radical prostatectomy (RARP) on a fresh frozen cadaver. Performances were compared against a cohort of 9 control participants without any training experience. Performances were video recorded and assessed blindly using GEARS post hoc.

Results

Learning curve analysis demonstrated improvements in technical skill for both training modalities although procedural training was associated with greater training effects.

Any VR training resulted in significantly higher GEARS scores than no training (GEARS score 11.3 ± 0.58 vs. 8.8 ± 2.9, p = 0.002). Procedural VR training was found to be more effective than both basic VR training and no training (GEARS 11.9 ± 2.9 vs. 10.7 ± 2.8 vs. 8.8 ± 1.4, respectively, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

This trial has shown that a structured programme of procedural VR simulation is effective for robotic training with technical skills successfully transferred to a clinical task in cadavers. Further work to evaluate the role of procedural-based VR for more advanced surgical skills training is required.
Experimental verification of the characteristic behaviors in passive dynamic walking
Authors: Iribe Masatsugu , Hirouji Ryoichi , Ura Daisuke , Osuka Koichi , Kinugasa Tetsuya
Published: January 2021

It is well known that passive dynamic walking shows chaotic behavior owing to changes in the environment. In addition, when the environment changes continuously during walking, passive dynamic walking shows “adaptive behaviors” in which the stride angle changes itself in an attempt to keep walking. These behaviors are very interesting and useful for the legged robot design. However, the studies on passive dynamic walking are preceded only by numerical simulations. For this reason, it is very important to confirm, by actual experiments, whether these characteristic behaviors appear. In this paper, we verify the existence of these behaviors by several actual experiments.