bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The nurses’ construction process: ethnographic approach
Authors: Pereira Liliane Alves , Hirsch Carolina Domingues , Barlem Edison Luiz Devos , Schallenberger Claudia Denise , Rocha Laurelize Pereira , Dalmolin Graziele Lima
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: compreender o processo de construção do enfermeiro líder na perspectiva da etnoenfermagem. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa baseada nos pressupostos da etnoenfermagem, sendo desenvolvida em um hospital filantrópico no extremo sul do país, em um setor clínico assistencial com 22 profissionais da equipe de enfermagem. A coleta de dados foi realizada de julho a novembro de 2015 em nove fases da etnoenfermagem. Análise dos dados foi feita de forma simultânea e concomitante as fases de observação, conforme preconizado pela metodologia da etnoenfermagem. Resultados: emergiram três categorias que caracterizam a construção do enfermeiro líder, sendo elas a advocacia em saúde, relações interpessoais e exercício da autonomia. Conclusão: a compreensão do processo de construção do enfermeiro líder constitui-se um elemento importante no exercício da profissão, pois garante a valorização profissional e reconhecimento do enfermeiro como gestor do cuidado, ampliado a qualidade dos serviços através das ações promovidas pela liderança da equipe.
Communication of difficult news in basic attention
Authors: Amorim Caroline Bettanzos , Barlem Edison Luiz Devos , Mattos Larissa Merino de , Barlem Jamila Geri Tomaschewski , Rocha Laurelize Pereira , Oliveira Matheus Ferreira
Published: February 2021

Resumo: Objetivo: conhecer como ocorre a comunicação de notícias difíceis por enfermeiros na atenção básica. Método: pesquisa exploratória, descritiva e de abordagem qualitativa com 15 Enfermeiros de 10 Unidades Básicas de Saúde no sul do país. A coleta de dados foi realizada através de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram analisados conforme análise textual discursiva. Resultado: Foram geradas duas categorias: Comunicação como suporte as necessidades do cliente; Comunicação como elemento a suprir a demanda da atenção primária. Conclusão: os enfermeiros adotam alguns aspectos no momento da comunicação de notícia difícil, aspectos esses ancorados, por exemplo, através de empatia, compreensão da realidade do usuário, fala simplificada, privacidade, entre outros, sendo esses essenciais para uma comunicação adequada e humanizada que visa o conforto do usuário nesse momento da comunicação.
Hemotransfusion under the perspective of nursing care
Authors: Santos Leila Xavier dos , Santana Cristina Célia de Almeida Pereira , Oliveira Arlene de Souza Barcelos
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: verificar a atuação da equipe de enfermagem durante a assistência em terapêutica transfusional. Método: pesquisa descritiva e exploratória, com abordagem quanti-qualitativa. Participaram do estudo 31 membros da equipe de enfermagem lotados em um hospital público e de ensino, habilitado como unidade de alta complexidade em oncologia. Os dados foram coletados entre setembro e dezembro de 2017 em duas etapas: por intermédio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e de um checklist para observação. Os dados foram agrupados, dispostos em tabelas e apresentados em frequência simples e valores absolutos e avaliados por análise temática. Resultados: a maioria dos profissionais referiu não se sentir apta a prestar a assistência transfusional. Observou-se não conformidade em aplicar normas de biossegurança, uma ineficaz monitoração do paciente e ausência do registro de informações sobre a assistência prestada. Conclusão: destaca-se a importância da capacitação contínua dos profissionais e a implementação de instrumentos que possam assegurar a assistência transfusional segura.
Managerial stress according to rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Silva Victor Lucas de Melo , Felix Rayane Saraiva , Souza Nayara de , Nascimento Camila Matias , Moura Larissa Kelly Silva de , Salvador Pétala Tuani Candido de Oliveira
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Analisar o conceito estresse gerencial na perspectiva evolucionária de Rodgers. Métodos: Estudo descritivo de abordagem mista, cuja fonte da coleta de dados foi o Banco de Teses e Dissertações da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES). A busca foi realizada em maio de 2017, através do descritor “Estresse Ocupacional”. Foram incluídas produções brasileiras disponíveis na íntegra. Os dados quantitativos foram analisados a partir de estatística descritiva simples, e a variável qualitativa através da análise de similitude com suporte do IRAMUTEQ. Resultados: A amostra final contou com 12 estudos, de um total de 314, número ainda incipiente. Na análise conceitual foram encontrados os seguintes vocábulos: estresse ocupacional, indivíduo, ambiente, saúde e físico. Conclusão: Conceituou-se estresse gerencial como um conjunto de fatores organizacionais e interpessoais no local de trabalho, que causam o desgaste fisiológico e psicológico do trabalhador, o que afeta a saúde do indivíduo, assim como reflete diretamente na instituição.
Epigenetic regulator BMI1 promotes alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma proliferation and constitutes a novel therapeutic target
Authors: Shields Cara E. , Potlapalli Sindhu , Cuya‐Smith Selma M. , Chappell Sarah K. , Chen Dongdong , Martinez Daniel , Pogoriler Jennifer , Rathi Komal S. , Patel Shiv A. , Oristian Kristianne M. , Linardic Corinne M. , Maris John M. , Haynes Karmella A. , Schnepp Robert W.
Published: February 2021

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive pediatric soft tissue sarcoma. There are two main subtypes of RMS, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) and embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. ARMS typically encompasses fusion‐positive rhabdomyosarcoma, which expresses either PAX3‐FOXO1 or PAX7‐FOXO1 fusion proteins. There are no targeted therapies for ARMS; however, recent studies have begun to illustrate the cooperation between epigenetic proteins and the PAX3‐FOXO1 fusion, indicating that epigenetic proteins may serve as targets in ARMS. Here, we investigate the contribution of BMI1, given the established role of this epigenetic regulator in sustaining aggression in cancer. We determined that BMI1 is expressed across ARMS tumors, patient‐derived xenografts, and cell lines. We depleted BMI1 using RNAi and inhibitors (PTC‐209 and PTC‐028) and found that this leads to a decrease in cell growth/increase in apoptosis in vitro, and delays tumor growth in vivo. Our data suggest that BMI1 inhibition activates the Hippo pathway via phosphorylation of LATS1/2 and subsequent reduction in YAP levels and YAP/TAZ target genes. These results identify BMI1 as a potential therapeutic vulnerability in ARMS and warrant further investigation of BMI1 in ARMS and other sarcomas.
Autoimmune and Chronic Inflammatory Disease Patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Ungaro Ryan C. , Agrawal Manasi , Park Sarah , Hirten Robert , Colombel Jean‐Frederic , Twyman Kathryn , Gulko Percio S. , Klang Eyal
Published: February 2021

Objective

There are limited data on the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) on hospitalized patients with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disease (AICID) compared with patients who do not have AICID. We sought to evaluate whether patients with AICID who have confirmed COVID‐19 presenting to the hospital are at higher risk of adverse outcomes compared with those patients without AICID who are infected with COVID‐19 and whether immunosuppressive medications impact this risk.

Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study with patients presenting to five hospitals in a large academic health system with polymerase chain reaction–confirmed COVID‐19 infection. We evaluated the impact of having an AICID and class of immunosuppressive medication being used to treat patients with AICID (biologics, nonbiologic immunosuppressives, or systemic corticosteroids) on the risk of developing severe COVID‐19 defined as requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) and/or death.

Results

A total of 6792 patients with confirmed COVID‐19 were included in the study, with 159 (2.3%) having at least one AICID. On multivariable analysis, AICIDs were not significantly associated with severe COVID‐19 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9‐1.8). Among patients with AICID, use of biologics or nonbiologic immunosuppressives did not increase the risk of severe COVID‐19. In contrast, systemic corticosteroid use was significantly associated with an increased risk of severe COVID‐19 (aOR 6.8, 95% CI: 2.5‐18.4).

Conclusion

Patients with AICID are not at increased risk of severe COVID‐19 with the exception of those on corticosteroids. These data suggest that patients with AICID should continue on biologic and nonbiologic immunosuppression but limit steroids during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Associations between plasma neurofilament light, in vivo brain pathology, and cognition in non‐demented individuals with autosomal‐dominant Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Guzmán‐Vélez Edmarie , Zetterberg Henrik , Fox‐Fuller Joshua T. , Vila‐Castelar Clara , Sanchez Justin S. , Baena Ana , Garcia‐Ospina Gloria , Aguillon David , Pardilla‐Delgado Enmanuelle , Gatchel Jennifer R. , Sperling Reisa A. , Johnson Keith , Reiman Eric M. , Blennow Kaj , Lopera Francisco , Quiroz Yakeel T.
Published: February 2021

Background

Neurofilament light (NfL) is a promising biomarker of early neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We examined whether plasma NfL was associated with in vivo amyloid beta and tau, and cognitive performance in non‐demented presenilin‐1 (PSEN1) E280A mutation carriers.

Methods

Twenty‐five mutation carriers and 19 non‐carriers (age range: 28 to 49 years) were included in this study. Participants underwent 11C Pittsburgh compound B (PiB)‐PET (positron emission tomography), flortaucipir–PET, blood sampling, and cognitive testing.

Results

Mutation carriers exhibited higher plasma NfL levels than non‐carriers. In carriers, higher NfL levels were related to greater regional tau burden and worse cognition, but not amyloid beta load. When we adjusted for age, a proxy of disease progression, elevated plasma NfL levels were only correlated with worse memory recall.

Conclusions

Findings support an association between plasma NfL, cognition, and tau pathology in non‐demented individuals at genetic risk for developing AD dementia. Plasma NfL may be useful for selecting individuals at increased risk and tracking disease progression in AD.
Probing Single‐Atom Catalysts and Catalytic Reaction Processes by Shell‐Isolated Nanoparticle‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Wei Jie , Qin Si‐Na , Yang Ji , Ya Han‐Long , Huang Wei‐Hsiang , Zhang Hua , Hwang Bing Joe , Tian Zhong‐Qun , Li Jian‐Feng
Published: February 2021

Developing advanced characterization techniques for single‐atom catalysts (SACs) is of great significance to identify their structural and catalytic properties. Raman spectroscopy can provide molecular structure information, and thus, the technique is a promising tool for catalysis. However, its application in SACs remains a great challenge because of its low sensitivity. We develop a highly sensitive strategy that achieves the characterization of the structure of SACs and in situ monitoring of the catalytic reaction processes on them by shell‐isolated nanoparticle‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) for the first time. Using the strategy, Pd SACs on different supports were identified by Raman spectroscopy and the nucleation process of Pd species from single atoms to nanoparticles was revealed. Moreover, the catalytic reaction processes of the hydrogenation of nitro compounds on Pd SACs were monitored in situ, and molecular insights were obtained to uncover the unique catalytic properties of SACs. This work provides a new spectroscopic tool for the in situ study of SACs, especially at solid–liquid interfaces.
Electrostatically Driven Selective Adsorption of Carbon Dioxide over Acetylene in an Ultramicroporous Material
Authors: Xie Yi , Cui Hui , Wu Hui , Lin Rui‐Biao , Zhou Wei , Chen Banglin
Published: February 2021

Separating acetylene from carbon dioxide is important but highly challenging owing to their similar physical properties and molecular dimensions. Herein, we report highly efficient electrostatically driven CO2/C2H2 separation in an ultramicroporous cadmium nitroprusside (Cd‐NP) with compact pore space and complementary electrostatic potential well fitting for CO2, thus enabling molecular quadrupole moment recognition of CO2 over C2H2. This material shows a high CO2/C2H2 uptake ratio of 6.0 as well as remarkable CO2/C2H2 selectivity of 85 under ambient conditions with modest CO2 heat of adsorption. Neutron powder diffraction experiments and molecular simulations revealed that the electrostatic potential compatibility between pore structure and CO2 allows it to be trapped in a head‐on orientation towards the Cd center, whereas the diffusion of C2H2 is electrostatically forbidden. Dynamic breakthrough experiments have validated the separation performance of this compound for CO2/C2H2 separation.
Pulsar tests of the graviton mass
Authors: Shao Lijing
Published: February 2021

In Einstein's general relativity (GR), gravity is described by a massless spin‐2 metric field, and the extension of GR to include a mass term for the graviton has profound implication for gravitation and cosmology. Besides the gravity experiments carried out in the Solar System and those recently with gravitational waves (GWs), pulsar timing observations provide a complementary means to test the masslessness of graviton. In this contribution, I overview three methods in probing the mass of graviton from precision timing of binary pulsars via the modified gravitational radiation (hence, the observed damping rate of the orbital period), as well as from the pulsar‐timing‐array (PTA) experiments via the modified Hellings‐Downs angular‐correlation curve. These tests probe different aspects of gravitation in its kinematics and dynamics, complementing tests of other kinds and providing valuable information to the fundamental theory of gravity.
One‐parametric description for scalar field dark matter potentials
Authors: Linares Cedeño Francisco X. , Ureña‐López Luis Arturo
Published: February 2021

We study the cosmological evolution for a scalar field dark matter model, by considering a parameterization of the evolution equations that allow us to unify in a single parameter a family of potentials: quadratic (free case), trigonometric (Axion‐like case), and hyperbolic. After exploring the cosmological dynamics of this model, we perform a statistical analysis to study the viability of such model in comparison with the standard Cold Dark Matter model. We found that the free case is preferred over the other scalar field potentials, but in any case all of them are disfavored by the cosmological observations with respect to the standard model.
Mutation patterns in recurrent and/or metastatic oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas in relation to human papillomavirus status
Authors: Reder Henrike , Wagner Steffen , Wuerdemann Nora , Langer Christine , Sandmann Sarah , Braeuninger Andreas , Dugas Martin , Gattenloehner Stefan , Wittekindt Claus , Klussmann Jens Peter
Published: February 2021

Patients with HPV‐driven (HPV+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) have a significantly improved overall survival compared to patients with HPV‐negative (HPV−) OPSCC. Nevertheless, 13%–25% of patients with HPV+OPSCC develop local/distant recurrence (LDR) and have a course of disease similar to HPV−OPSCC. We hypothesize that HPV+OPSCCs of patients with LDR have a mutation frequency and pattern similar to HPV−OPSCCs, which is associated with severe outcome. We performed targeted next‐generation sequencing using a customized gene panel and compared data from 56 matched HPV+and HPV−OPSCC of patients with/without LDR regarding protein‐altering variants. Despite improved overall survival of patients with HPV+OPSCC, those who develop LDR show a strongly reduced survival rate that is similar or even worse compared to HPV−OPSCC patients. Overall, the number of mutations was similar in OPSCC of patients with and without LDR. In total and with respect to TP53, HPV−OPSCC had significantly more protein‐altering mutations than HPV+OPSCC. The number of mutations was similar in HPV−OPSCC of patients with and without LDR with the exception of FAT1, which was mutated more frequently in patients without LDR. In HPV+OPSCC, HRAS, PIK3R1, STK11 and TP63 were more frequently mutated in patients with LDR compared to patients without. HPV+OPSCC of patients with LDR have a similar mutation pattern as HPV−OPSCC, except TP53, which was mutated to a significantly lower extent. In conclusion, HPV−and HPV+OPSCC with LDR have similar mutation counts in the analyzed genes. We suspect that the number of mutations is not causal for disease progression, rather specific mutations could be important.
The multi‐kinase inhibitor dasatinib suppresses autoinflammation and increases bone density in a mouse model for chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis
Authors: Yoshikawa Ryo , Abe Koichiro
Published: February 2021

Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is an autoinflammatory bone disease that presents with bone destruction and pain. Although genetic studies have identified signalling pathways involving CRMO, molecularly targeted drugs remain unavailable. We used an animal model of CRMO as an in vivo screening system for candidate therapeutic agents. A gain‐of‐function mutation in Fgr, a member of Src family kinases (SFKs), causes peripheral paw inflammation and reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in Ali18 mice. The SFK inhibitor dasatinib was selected for administration to Ali18 mice daily for 2 weeks. Local inflammation and BMD were assessed by clinical scoring and computed tomography, respectively. Pilot studies in a small number of animals showed that dasatinib administration effectively suppressed the early phase of autoinflammation in Ali18 mice. Serial oral gavage of dasatinib to a group of Ali18 mice confirmed significant suppression of paw swelling with no side effects. Histological analysis revealed that abnormal proliferative bone marrow cells and inflammatory infiltration into the skin in the affected area were clearly reduced in the animals with dasatinib administration. Further, trabecular BMD in Ali18 long bones was restored to levels similar to that found in wild type mice. Our results indicate that autoinflammation and related‐bone phenotypes were completely suppressed by the dasatinib kinase inhibitor in CRMO model animals. Thus, it is strongly suggested that dasatinib can be used for clinical treatments of CRMO with the combination of molecular diagnosis of the FGR locus.

Significance of the study

Autoinflammation and related‐bone phenotypes were effectively suppressed by the kinase inhibitor dasatinib in CRMO model animals. In combination with molecular analysis of the FGR locus, dasatinib is a strong candidate for the clinical treatments of CRMO. We propose that the animal model employed in this study can be used to screen this and other potential drugs for CRMO.
Optically Controlled Electron Transfer in a ReI Complex
Authors: Rohwer Egmont J. , Geng Yan , Akbarimoosavi Maryam , Daku Latévi M. Lawson , Aleveque Olivier , Levillain Eric , Hauser Jürg , Cannizzo Andrea , Häner Robert , Decurtins Silvio , Stanley Robert J. , Feurer Thomas , Liu Shi‐Xia
Published: February 2021

Ultrafast optical control of intramolecular charge flow was demonstrated, which paves the way for photocurrent modulation and switching with a highly wavelength‐selective ON/OFF ratio. The system that was explored is a fac‐[Re(CO)3(TTF‐DPPZ)Cl] complex, where TTF‐DPPZ=4’,5’‐bis(propylthio)tetrathiafulvenyl[i]dipyrido[3,2‐a:2’,3’‐c]phenazine. DFT calculations and AC‐Stark spectroscopy confirmed the presence of two distinct optically active charge‐transfer processes, namely a metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) and an intra‐ligand charge transfer (ILCT). Ultrafast transient absorption measurements showed that the ILCT state decays in the ps regime. Upon excitation to the MLCT state, only a long‐lived 3MLCT state was observed after 80 ps. Remarkably, however, the bleaching of the ILCT absorption band remained as a result of the effective inhibition of the HOMO–LUMO transition.
Improving the accuracy of the Eyring equation by pseudo‐ideal solution model to predict the viscosity of the mono‐ethanol amine‐[Bmim] PF6 ionic liquid blends in a CO2 capturing pilot plant
Authors: Kalatjari Hamid R. , Nasr Mohammad R. Jafari , Haghtalab Ali , Heydarinasab Amir
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the present study was to propose a new simulation model for calculation of the viscosity of the mono‐ethanol amine‐ionic liquid (MEA‐IL) solvent in the CO2‐capturing pilot plant. To do so, a combination of the pseudo‐ideal solution model (PISM) and Eyring's mixture viscosity equation was implemented in MATLAB. Moreover, the various thermodynamic models were used to calculate viscosity, using solvent containing MEA‐IL in the high CO2 feed gas. The present study determined the viscosities of the MEA‐IL blends at different concentrations and various temperatures in the CO2 capturing pilot plant. The results were comparable to those obtained from the Eyring‐PISM model, Eyring‐Wilson method, Cheng and Meisen a previous study equation, and the Aspen Plus and Promax with electrolyte non‐random two‐liquid model that presented the actual viscosity values of the liquid solutions. The calculated solvent viscosity values with the Eyring‐PISM model at different temperature profiles were achieved using an average absolute deviation (AAD) of about 1.164% and 1.422% in absorber and desorber for solvent (MEA = 27 wt% and IL = 34.2 wt%) and 1.578% and 1.868% in absorber and desorber for solvent (MEA = 29 wt% and IL = 37.12 wt%), respectively. The consideration of a suitable model for the determination of viscosity has a significant role in energy consumption in the CO2‐capturing pilot plant. The estimated energy consumption with the Eyring‐PISM model was achieved using an AAD of about 0.652% for solvent (MEA = 27 wt% and IL = 34.2 wt%) and 0.502% for solvent (MEA = 29 wt% and IL = 37.12 wt%), respectively. The results obtained from the Eyring‐PISM simulation model using the experimental data revealed a high degree of accuracy.
Versatile Graphene‐Isolated AuAg‐Nanocrystal for Multiphase Analysis and Multimodal Cellular Raman Imaging†
Authors: Li Shengkai , Zhu Zhaotian , Cai Xinqi , Song Minghui , Wang Shen , Hao Qing , Chen Long , Chen Zhuo
Published: February 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)‐based bioanalytical technique involves the interaction of SERS‐active substrate with complex environment, which has aroused intensive research interests. Compared to the commonly used Au SERS substrates, Ag nanocrystals have larger optical absorption cross section and acceptable price, but they possess poor oxidation resistance and potential biotoxicity, and the occurrence of unnecessary chemical reactions is inevitable due to the direct contact with probe molecules. Herein, we report a graphene‐isolated AuAg nanocrystal (GIAAN) with the SERS‐active AuAg core confined in a nanospace of few‐layer graphene shell, which possesses unique Raman peaks, high SERS activity, excellent stability, superior fluorescence quenching performance and good biocompatibility. Based on the limited solubility of GIAAN in water and organic solvents, it is able to spontaneously generate interfacial self‐assembled GIAAN (ISA‐GIAAN) film at immiscible two‐phase interfaces without any inducer, and multiphase Raman analysis of both water‐ and lipid‐soluble drug model molecules is further achieved. Moreover, the GIAAN is further non‐covalently functionalized with polyoxyethylenestearyl ether (C18‐PEG) to acquire GIAAN@PEG with good water‐solubility for SERS quantitative analysis in homogeneous system and multimodal Raman imaging of MCF‐7 cells. We expect the versatile GIAAN holds great potential to monitor drug metabolism and guide intended drug delivery in clinic trials.
Influence of process variables on the drying kinetics and color properties of pear slices (Pyrus communis)
Authors: Domínguez‐Niño Alfredo , Salgado‐Sandoval Orlando , López‐Vidaña Erick C. , César‐Munguía Ana L. , Pilatowsky‐Figueroa Isaac , García‐Valladares Octavio
Published: February 2021

In this work, the effect of drying conditions on pear slices' physicochemical properties was determined. The factors investigated were drying temperature, air velocity, and addition of ascorbic acid. An analysis of variance indicated that the factors affected (P ≤ .05) the response variables significantly. The lowest drying time resulted at 60°C, 3 m s−1, at 0%, and 1% of ascorbic acid concentration. At these drying conditions, the final moisture content in pear samples was 0.14 g H2O g d s−1. The water activity of the pear samples was in the range from 0.27 to 0.39. A low value of 6.36 of color difference was obtained at 50°C, 1 m s−1, and 0% of ascorbic acid. During the drying process, the lightness in pear samples increases as the air velocity and the drying temperature increases. The highest hue values (from 54.66° to 63.27°) resulted in dried pear samples without ascorbic acid; therefore, the dried pear slices tended to yellowness. Chroma results ranged from 19.51 to 21.41 and from 14.96 to 19.16 in pear slices with and without ascorbic acid. Therefore, the color of the pear slices resulted in grayish‐yellow. An increment in sugar content was observed from an initial value of 18°Brix to values from 37.5 to 48.7°Brix. This behavior is because the sugar core is concentrated in large amounts during the drying process as the residual water content decreases.
Combined particle swarm optimization and Ant Colony System for energy efficient cloud data centers
Authors: M Mahil , T Jayasree
Published: February 2021

One of the foremost issues deliberated by the cloud infrastructure providers is to minimize the costs by reducing energy consumption. Though many heuristic algorithms such as Genetic Algorithm (GA), Simulated Annealing (SA), and so on, have been existed for task scheduling or server consolidation to reduce energy consumption, more energy savings in data centers is required. In this paper, a combination of two distinctive heuristic algorithms, namely Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique for proficient task scheduling and Ant Colony System (ACS) for effective server consolidation are proposed. In PSO, each particle in the swarm finds a task scheduling solution and updates the best solution. It is faster than many meta‐heuristic algorithms. In ACS, each ant in the ant colony tries to find the best destination PMs for migrating VMs from overloaded or underloaded PMs. The proposed PSO‐ACS algorithm is experimented with PlanetLab real workload traces available in the CloudSim toolkit. The algorithm provides reduction in energy consumption, number of VM migrations, and Energy SLA Violation (ESV) metrics while maintaining QoS. In the best‐case scenario, the proposed method reduces the ESV metric by 28%, 27%, and 18% in comparison with other algorithms like LR, ACS, and PSO‐LR.
No evidence of EMAST in whole genome sequencing data from 248 colorectal cancers
Authors: Kondelin Johanna , Martin Samantha , Katainen Riku , Renkonen‐Sinisalo Laura , Lepistö Anna , Koskensalo Selja , Böhm Jan , Mecklin Jukka‐Pekka , Cajuso Tatiana , Hänninen Ulrika A. , Välimäki Niko , Ravantti Janne , Rajamäki Kristiina , Palin Kimmo , Aaltonen Lauri A.
Published: February 2021

Microsatellite instability (MSI) is caused by defective DNA mismatch repair (MMR), and manifests as accumulation of small insertions and deletions (indels) in short tandem repeats of the genome. Another form of repeat instability, elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST), has been suggested to occur in 50% to 60% of colorectal cancer (CRC), of which approximately one quarter are accounted for by MSI. Unlike for MSI, the criteria for defining EMAST is not consensual. EMAST CRCs have been suggested to form a distinct subset of CRCs that has been linked to a higher tumor stage, chronic inflammation, and poor prognosis. EMAST CRCs not exhibiting MSI have been proposed to show instability of di‐ and trinucleotide repeats in addition to tetranucleotide repeats, but lack instability of mononucleotide repeats. However, previous studies on EMAST have been based on targeted analysis of small sets of marker repeats, often in relatively few samples. To gain insight into tetranucleotide instability on a genome‐wide level, we utilized whole genome sequencing data from 227 microsatellite stable (MSS) CRCs, 18 MSI CRCs, 3 POLE‐mutated CRCs, and their corresponding normal samples. As expected, we observed tetranucleotide instability in all MSI CRCs, accompanied by instability of mono‐, di‐, and trinucleotide repeats. Among MSS CRCs, some tumors displayed more microsatellite mutations than others as a continuum, and no distinct subset of tumors with the previously proposed molecular characters of EMAST could be observed. Our results suggest that tetranucleotide repeat mutations in non‐MSI CRCs represent stochastic mutation events rather than define a distinct CRC subclass.
Response of three native grass species on dry tailings reclamation substrate amended with petroleum coke
Authors: Luna Wolter Gabriela L. , Dhar Amalesh , Naeth M. Anne
Published: February 2021

Surface mining around the world has produced large quantities of waste materials with ecological impacts. Oil sands mining in Canada generates large volumes of petroleum coke and tailings every year, which are stockpiled in the mining areas and must be reclaimed through capping or used in reclamation substrates. A greenhouse study was conducted to determine whether substrates of various mixes of dry tailings (DT), tailings sand (TS), and peat mineral mix (PMM) with coke amendment would support emergence and growth of three grass species commonly used in land reclamation. After 16 wk in the greenhouse, plant performance varied with substrate and amendment. Treatment with DT/TS/PMM (50:25:25) with 40% coke had greatest cover, biomass, and density and the best plant health. Plant growth was inhibited in treatments with DT (100%) and coke (100%) due to high concentrations of hydrocarbons, undesirable exchangeable ions, and salinity that restricted soil water retention (gravimetric water content, hydraulic conductivity) relative to treatments with PMM. Agrostis scabra Willd. and Festuca saximontana. showed poor growth or did not survive on DT and DT/TS with coke. Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners performed better in all DT mixes and performed the best in DT/TS/PMM with 40% coke. Results from this study indicate that mixing with PMM could improve the reclamation potential of DT and coke.
Association of ADAM10 gene variants with sporadic Parkinson's disease in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhou Miaomiao , Lin Yuwan , Lu Lin , Zhang Zhiling , Guo Wenyuan , Peng Guoyou , Zhang Wenlong , Zhu Ziting , Wu Zhuohua , Mo Mingshu , Yang Xinling , Zhu Xiaoqin , Chen Chaojun , Chen Xiang , Xu Pingyi
Published: February 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide. Genetic factors play important roles in PD risk. rs653765 and rs514049 of ADAM10 were reported to be associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Caucasian population; however, the association of the two variants with PD in Chinese Han population remains unknown. The present investigation aimed to explore the possible association of ADAM10 variants with PD in Chinese Han population.

Methods

We enrolled 565 PD patients and 518 healthy controls to conduct a case–control study. DNA samples were extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes, and the genotypes were determined by utilization of MassARRAY platform. Plasma levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

We found CC genotype of rs514049 was associated with an increased risk of PD (OR (95% CI) = 3.776 (1.127–11.217), p = 0.018). The C allele frequency of rs514049 was significantly higher in PD group (OR (95% CI) = 1.328 (1.031–1.709), p = 0.028), especially in male subgroup (OR (95% CI) = 1.484 (1.053–2.092), p = 0.024). However, there was no significant difference in the genotype or allele frequencies for rs653765 within the groups. Plasma levels were significantly decreased in PD patients compared with controls (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our data suggested that C allele of rs514049 in ADAM10 may increase the risk of PD in Chinese Han population, especially in males. The decreased plasma levels are probably involved in PD development.
A novel turn‐on fluorometric “reporter‐spacer‐receptor” chemosensor based on calix[4]arene scaffold for detection of cyanate anion
Authors: Bozkurt Selahattin , Halay Erkan , Durmaz Mustafa , Topkafa Mustafa , Ceylan Özgür
Published: February 2021

Herein, a novel calix[4]arene compound, which was modified by the 2‐(2‐aminophenyl)benzothiazole fragment with cyanate recognition function was designed based on the reporter‐spacer‐receptor sensing system. The construction was done via two‐step reaction, and the desired sensor 4 was characterized by FT‐IR, 1H‐, 13C‐NMR, and fluorescence spectroscopy along with HRMS data. The sensor candidate showed distinct fluorometric cyanate detection by means of reporter feature of selected benzothiazole constituent. In the presence of cyanate, the sensor gave a turn‐on‐type fluorescence at 482 nm with a large stokes' shift. Furthermore, it was observed that our fluoroionophore 4 is highly selective toward cyanate over remaining anions such as sulfate, phosphate, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, chlorate, and nitrate in 10% aqueous solution of DMSO. The 1:2 stoichiometric ratio of the 4‐cyanate complex was given the best fit with Job's plot based on the titration data. The association constant (Ka) of sensor 4 with cyanate is determined to be 1.64 × 105 M−2. The obtained limit of detection (LOD) value for cyanate anion, 312 nM, clearly revealed the remarkable sensitivity of the chemosensor 4. This supramolecular method provides a highly adaptive technique for the detection of cyanate and so cyanide ions by current international standard methods.
Surgical and oncological outcomes after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy at a nonacademic center: 25‐year experience
Authors: Nikiforchin Andrei , Gushchin Vadim , King Mary Caitlin , Baron Ekaterina , Nieroda Carol , Sittig Michelle , Sardi Armando
Published: February 2021

Background

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is predominantly performed and studied in academic centers. While developing CRS/HIPEC programs in nonacademic hospitals can increase accessibility, its safety and oncological efficacy remains unclear. We evaluated CRS/HIPEC outcomes in a nonacademic setting.

Methods

A single‐center descriptive study was conducted using a prospective database. Data of all CRS/HIPEC attempts in peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) patients from October 1994 to November 2019 were extracted. Surgical and survival outcomes were measured. Center experience was assessed by quartiles of cases.

Results

Overall, 856 patients underwent 948 CRS/HIPEC attempts: 788 (83%) completed CRS/HIPECs, 144 (15%) aborted HIPECs, and 16 (2%) complete cytoreductions (CC‐0/1) without chemoperfusion. For completed CRS/HIPECs, median peritoneal cancer index was 24 (interquartile range: 10–33) and CC‐0/1 rate was 88%. Major complications occurred in 23.5% with 30‐ and 100‐day mortality of 1.0% and 2.3%, respectively. Median overall survival was 68 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 50–86). Median progression‐free survival was 37 months (95%CI: 28–46). Incomplete cytoreduction and major complication rates decreased over time, while mortality remained low and constant.

Conclusions

CRS/HIPEC at a nonacademic center with advanced surgical and auxiliary services is a safe option to treat PSM with favorable surgical and oncological outcomes.
Rapid and precise measurements of radon in water using a pulsed ionization chamber
Authors: Seo Junhyeong , Kim Guebuem
Published: February 2021

Radon‐in‐air monitor (RAD7, Durridge Co.) has been widely used to measure 222Rn in water samples. RAD7 measures 222Rn via 218Po+ (t1/2 = 3.1 min), which is electrically attracted to a silicon alpha detector. In this study, a new method was developed for measuring 222Rn in water samples by modifying a commercially available pulsed ionization chamber (PIC, FT‐Lab Co.). The PIC detects and amplifies the electric pulses generated by microspace charges produced by 222Rn decay. Two passive PICs (volume: 2 × 400 mL) were combined and modified to form an active system (named Rn‐SNU) that continuously circulates air (~ 1 L min−1). Rn‐SNU is approximately seven to nine times more efficient than RAD7 and does not necessitate a delay of ~ 15 min to reach radioactive equilibrium between 222Rn and 218Po+. However, RAD7 is more accurate in discriminating 222Rn daughters, 218Po+ and 214Po+. In this study, 222Rn was successfully measured in coastal seawater samples using Rn‐SNU connected to a grab bottle. Our results suggest that 222Rn measurements in water samples can be conducted more efficiently and rapidly with an Rn‐SNU than with other widely used instruments and methods.
Gender Discrimination and Marginalization of Women in North‐East India
Authors: Choudhury Sanghamitra , Kumar Shailendra
Published: February 2021

The concept of social exclusion refers to the processes through which some groups are wholly or partially excluded from full participation in the society in which they live. In light of this concept of social exclusion, the manuscript attempts to analyze the position of women in the north‐eastern Indian states especially in the state of Assam and Manipur. Women in the north‐eastern region of India are relatively better than their counterparts elsewhere in the country in terms of mobility, life choices, space in their lives, and so on. Various indices also give us the idea of a comparatively better position of women in the north‐eastern states of India. However, albeit the north‐eastern women incline to relish a higher status in cognation to their peers in the rest of India yet the cultural and customary traditions, discriminate against women in inordinate respect, and women in this region also face discrimination on many fronts, more so in the patriarchal societies of Assam and Manipur which has been highlighted in this manuscript.
Capital mobility and knowledge diffusion from China into Ghana's food production subsector: Implications for the law and politics of food sector development strategies
Authors: Ansah John Windie
Published: February 2021

Chinese capital mobility and knowledge diffusion (CMKD) is visibly present in Ghana's agriculture sector. This has been crystallized in investments, trade, and inventor mobility. Situating this work within the Social Structure of Accumulation theory, I ask: How have Chinese capital mobility and knowledge diffusion influenced political interactions between state institutions and industry players in the agricultural sector? In what ways do Ghana's state institutions work to ensure she takes or refuses to take advantage of the opportunities which accompany Chinese capital mobility and knowledge diffusion? This study addressed these questions by analyzing qualitative data from 49 purposively selected end users of Chinese agricultural inputs, distributers, and co‐owners of Chinese agricultural input, experts, and policy makers in the agricultural sector. The study finds that state institutions' response to economic opportunities embedded in the Chinese capital mobility and knowledge diffusion in the sector was generally indifferent albeit some appreciable political interactions and institutional processes.
The multiple mediating effects of cancer threat appraisal and quality of life on the association between mindfulness and depression for colorectal cancer survivors
Authors: Chen Li‐Ting , Cheng Chih‐Tao , Huang I‐ping , Chang Jen‐Ho , Chang Nien‐Tzu , Hsiao Fei‐Hsiu
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study explored the multiple mediating effects of cancer threat appraisal, functional status, and symptom distress on the association between mindfulness and depression in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients at the transition stage after completing cancer treatments.

Methods

A total of 90 CRC survivors who received cancer treatments within 3 months participated in this cross‐sectional study. The functional status and symptom distress (EORTC‐C30 and EORTC CR29), dispositional mindfulness (Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire), cancer threat appraisal ( Constructed Meaning Scale), and depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory‐II scale) were collected. The mediation and moderation analyses were conducted using the PROCESS macros for SPSS.

Results

Survivors' dispositional mindfulness (γ = −0.49, p < 0.001) and cancer threat appraisal (γ = −0.59, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Simple mediation analysis indicated that cancer threat appraisal mediated the relationship between dispositional mindfulness and depression (β = −0.02, 95% CI = −0.04 to −0.001). The multiple mediated analysis identified the path between dispositional mindfulness and depression via cancer threat appraisal and colorectal symptom distress (β = −0.01, 95% CI = −0.03 to −0.01). In the mediated moderation model, the path between dispositional mindfulness and depression via colorectal function was moderated by cancer threat appraisal (β = −0.02, 95% CI = −0.05 to −0.004).

Conclusions

The two cognitive mechanisms of reducing CRC survivors' depression are as follows: (1) dispositional mindfulness reducing the appraisal of cancer as a threat and increasing positive perceptions of CRC symptoms and (2) the cancer threat appraisal buffered the impacts of CRC's mindfulness and colorectal function on depressive symptoms. Developing mindfulness with cognitive training is recommended for improving depressive symptoms among CRC patients in the transition period.
Dependence of tropical cyclone intrinsic intensity variability on the large‐scale environment
Authors: Keshavamurthy Kushal , Kieu Chanh
Published: February 2021

This study examines the dependence of tropical cyclone (TC) intrinsic intensity variability on the large‐scale environment. Using idealized simulations with the Hurricane Research and Forecasting (HWRF) model, the growth of TC intensity errors and the subsequent saturation of intensity errors at the mature stage are quantified for a range of environmental conditions. Among several factors, it is found that sea‐surface temperature (SST) and tropospheric static stability are the two main ones affecting the growth rate and saturation of TC intensity errors, with a larger error saturation at maximum intensity equilibrium and a faster error growth rate during rapid intensification for a warmer SST or less stable troposphere. Results from this study highlight the fundamental characteristics of TC intensity predictability, which appears to vary with environmental conditions, instead of being a universal measure for TCs in all ocean basins. These results also suggest a limit on TC intensity forecast accuracy that is governed by the large‐scale environment, which needs to be taken into consideration for future TC model development.
Unexplained infertility categorization based on female laparoscopy and total motile sperm count, and its impact on cumulative live‐births after one in‐vitro fertilization cycle. A retrospective cohort study involving 721 cycles
Authors: Satwik Ruma , Kochhar Mohinder
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To determine how subcategorizing unexplained infertility based on female laparoscopy and total‐motile‐sperm‐count assessment would impact cumulative live‐births after one in‐vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle.

Methods

Seven hundred twenty one IVF cycles from Jan 2014‐April 2019 performed at a single‐center were retrospectively analyzed. Couples with unexplained infertility having normal uterine and endometrial morphology were subcategorized into three cohorts, UI (1): those with no tuboperitoneal pathology on laparoscopy and total‐motile‐sperm‐count (TMSC) ≧20 million: n = 103; UI (2): tuboperitoneal pathology on laparoscopy or TMSC <20 million, n = 86; and UI(3): tuboperitoneal status not known: n = 114. Controls were severe male factor, bilateral tubal block, and grade 3/4 endometriosis: n = 418. Primary Outcome was cumulative‐live‐birth‐per‐initiated‐IVF cycle (CLBR). Odds ratio for live‐births were adjusted for confounding factors.

Results

The CLBR in UI1 cohort was significantly lower than controls (29.1% vs 39; OR = 0.62; 95%CI = 0.39‐0.98; P = .04); but similar in UI2 and UI3 vs. controls. (37.2% vs 39.95%; OR = 0.89, 95%CI = 0.55‐1.44; P = .89) and (38.6% vs 39.95%; OR = 0.98, 95%CI = 0.64‐1.55; P = .98). After adjusting for age, infertility duration, past live‐births, and AMH, the adjusted odds for CLBR in UI1 was 0.48 (95%CI = 0.28‐0.82; P = .007).

Conclusions

Unexplained infertility when defined after a normal laparoscopy and TMSC significantly lowered cumulative‐live‐births‐per‐initiated‐IVF cycle when compared with traditional diagnosis of tubal, endometriosis, or male factor infertility. In UI subcategory with abnormal laparoscopy or TMSC, CLBR remained unaffected. This information could be useful for counseling couples prior to IVF. Large‐scale prospective studies are needed to confirm this observation.
A frontier‐based managerial approach for relative sustainability performance assessment of the world's airports
Authors: Kucukvar Murat , Alawi Khalel Ahmed , Abdella Galal M. , Bulak Muhammet Enis , Onat Nuri C. , Bulu Melih , Yalçıntaş Murat
Published: February 2021

The sustainability impact of air transportation has become crucial to communities. Airports around the world are forced to be transparent with the society and to declare their sustainability results. As the sustainability goals and objectives and due to its multi‐dimension aspects that are needed to be decided of and subsequently improved, the decision has been taken, and the parameters have been selected due to its significance in this field. This research presents a managerial approach combining the optimization‐based frontier approach with the Global Report Initiative's comprehensive sustainability database for selected 30 major international airports based on data availability. In this regard, eco‐efficiency analysis is carried out with four different models using input‐oriented modeling with multiple undesirable environmental inputs (energy, carbon, water, and waste) and desirable outputs (revenue, passenger and employment) to compare efficiency and sustainability levels of airports in different contexts. Finally, performance improvement targets of each environmental indicators are presented for the airports. These comparative models reveal different frontier airports, which provide the opportunity to analyze diversified reference points for the same decision‐making unit. The presented statistical study has shown that San Francisco, Hong Kong, Hamad International Airport are the most efficient airports in terms of overall sustainability performance based on collected data and selected indicators. The authors also concluded that there is a discrepancy in sustainability data reporting between airports, and there is a need for collecting complete, consistent and real‐time social, environmental, economic, and governance data, to better compare and evaluate the performance of each airport from a sustainability perspective.