bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial in‐human experience with the conveyor cardiovascular system for the delivery of large profile transcatheter valve devices
Authors: O'Neill Brian P. , Wang Dee Dee , Caranasos Thomas G. , Chitwood W. Randolph , O'Neill William W. , Stack Richard
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To determine the safety and efficacy of the conveyor cardiovascular system (CCS) to facilitate the delivery of large profile transcatheter valve devices.

Background

Transcatheter valve devices rely on force provided by the operator to be delivered to their intended position. This delivery may be challenging in a variety of anatomic scenarios. The ability to provide steering from the tip of the device by forming an arterial venous loop may help overcome these challenges.

Methods

Between May, 2019 and October, 2020, five patients were recruited for delivery of transcatheter valve devices with the CCS. These patients were deemed by the operators to have challenging anatomy which could make conventional valve delivery difficult or impossible. These patients were recruited as part of an FDA approved early feasibility study or through an institutional review board approved compassionate use protocol.

Results

Three patients underwent transcatheter mitral valve replacement with a SAPIEN‐3 valve. One patient each underwent transcatheter aortic valve (TAVR) implantation with a SAPIEN 3 and 1 patient underwent TAVR implantation with a Lotus valve. All patients underwent successful implantation of the valve and removal of the CCS and valve delivery systems. There was no more than trivial mitral regurgitation post procedure in any patient and there was no more than trivial paravavular leak. There were no major in‐hospital complications.

Conclusions

The CCS facilitates the delivery of large profile transcatheter valve devices in challenging anatomic scenarios. Further studies are needed with additional valve technologies.
Partial Hydrolysis of Cyanide Coordination Polymers Induced by a Pillar Ligand with Optimized Electrochemical Kinetics for Rechargeable Alkaline Batteries
Authors: Feng Jie , Zhao Hongyang , Ali Wajid , Yin Dandan , Li Xinyang , Khan Nawab Ali , Ding Shujiang
Published: September 2021

Coordination polymers are promising cathode materials for rechargeable alkaline batteries. Therefore, the precise modulation of these cathodes by chemical structure and in‐depth structure transform study is necessary. Here, two model coordination polymer battery cathodes were designed to demonstrate the dynamic structure–performance relationship. We studied the electrochemical performance of two kinds of nickel‐based coordination polymer, comprising a planar 2D cyanide‐bridged network and a 3D cyanide‐bridged network pillared by pyrazine molecules. The 2D coordination polymer showed serious voltage degradation with poor rate capability, whereas the 3D coordination polymer exhibited stable voltage output coupled with high rate at various current densities. The investigation revealed the underlining relationship of plateau voltage degradation and hydrolysis process of electrodes. It was revealed that the pyrazine pillar molecules in the 3D coordination polymer could suppress the hydrolysis and lead to the in situ formation of partially hydrolyzed structure with excellent electrochemical kinetics; this exhibited obvious smaller peak separation (27 mV compared with 149 mV) and hence an almost twofold increase in capacity retention (31.9 to 50.0 %) and energy density retention (18.2 to 35.9 %) at 10 A g−1.
Targeting radiation‐induced upstream stimulatory factor‐1 by histone deacetylase inhibitors to reverse radioresistance in prostate cancer
Authors: Gupta Seema , Ahmed Mansoor M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Ionizing radiation (IR) is a standard modality for the management of solid tumors. Apart from its killing effects, IR can induce pro‐survival factors leading to radioresistance of cancer. Mechanistic understanding of radiation resistance is warranted to overcome the pro‐survival effects of IR.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of upstream stimulatory factor‐1 (USF‐1) in the induction of radioresistance in prostate cancer and its targeting by histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors to reverse resistance.

Methods and results

This study reports here that USF‐1 is a marker for radioresistance in PC‐3 cells. Using protein‐DNA array analysis, it was documented that DNA binding activity of USF‐1 was elevated following IR in PC‐3 cells. Novel HDAC inhibitors downregulated USF‐1 binding either alone or in combination with IR. A 5 Gy dose of IR induced the expression of target genes of USF‐1 (human telomerase reverse transcriptase [hTERT], IGF2R, CyclinB1, and Cdk1), however, HDAC inhibitors alone or in combination with IR reduced their expression as measured by real time RT PCR analysis. Furthermore, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that while USF‐1 localized primarily in the nucleus following IR, it localized in the cytoplasm when treated with HDAC inhibitors/combination. Maximum effects of modulation of USF‐1 expression (overexpression or suppression) were observed on hTERT activity as determined by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. To further confirm the role of USF‐1 in radioresistance, cell growth was analyzed using the real‐time cell electronic sensing (RT‐CES) system. This study found that USF‐1‐transfected cells proliferated faster than the vector‐transfected cells with or without treatments with HDAC inhibitors/IR/combination. Colony forming assay also confirmed that USF‐1 overexpression led to increased survival following IR. Importantly, colony‐forming assay demonstrated that HDAC inhibitors reversed the radioresistance in both PC‐3 and DU‐145 cells.

Conclusion

These studies demonstrate that HDAC inhibitors reverse the radioresistance in prostate cancer through down‐modulation of USF‐1‐mediated transactivation of target genes involved in cell proliferation and cell cycle.
Thermal Excitation Polarized Field Drives Photoelectric Catalysis for Dye Degradation in a BaTiO3/CdS Heterojunction through Integration of Solar and Thermal Energy
Authors: Qiao Zhenxiang , Liu Zhifeng , Ruan Mengnan , Guo Zhengang , Yan Weiguo , Wu Xiangfeng
Published: September 2021

Efficient charges separation and transfer are considered to be the key factors to achieve high efficiency photoelectric catalysis. Herein, we proposed that the internal potential difference and the macroscopic polarization field of the homotype BaTiO3/CdS pyroelectric heterojunction can adjust the photoelectric catalytic performance to achieve degradation of methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB) dyes. Under 20–50 °C hot–cold cycles, light and external bias, the catalytic rate of BaTiO3/CdS for MB is 4.82×10−2 min−1, which is 1.29 times and 1.36 times higher than photoelectric catalytic rates of BaTiO3/CdS (3.74×10−2 min−1) and BaTiO3 (2.15×10−2 min−1) alone, respectively. In addition, the catalytic rate of BaTiO3/CdS for RhB is 3.07×10−2 min−1, which is 1.41 times and 1.28 times higher than photoelectric catalytic rates of BaTiO3/CdS (2.18×10−2 min−1) and BaTiO3 (1.45×10−2 min−1) alone, respectively. The improvement of catalytic efficiency is due to the generation of pyrogenerated and photogenerated carriers, and the macroscopic polarization field and the potential difference at the BaTiO3/CdS heterojunction interface can enhance the separation and transfer of charge. This study confirms that the homotype heterojunction based on the pyroelectric effect can use solar/thermal energy to achieve efficient photoelectric catalysis. This provides a reference for the design and development of new and efficient electrodes in the field of photoelectric catalysis.
Cytological detection of metastatic chordoma cells in pleural effusions: A case report
Authors: Tamba‐Sakaguchi Mio , Oshiro Hisashi , Mato Naoko , Kikkawa Ichiro , Endo Teruaki , Yanagita Miki , Suzuki Tomoko , Akimoto Maho , Okabe Naota , Hiruta Masahiro , Ikeda Eriko , Fukushima Noriyoshi
Published: September 2021

Cytological detection of chordoma cells in the serosal cavity is challenging because of its rare presentation. Herein, we report a case of chordoma showing malignant pleural effusion accompanied by pleuropulmonary metastases in a 68‐year‐old woman. Cytological analysis was performed using pleural fluid obtained following thoracentesis. Conventional cytological staining demonstrated few clusters of large, atypical cells characterized by epithelial cell‐like connectivity and rich cytoplasm with foamy and/or multivacuolar changes. The nuclei of these atypical cells were large and either round or oval with no conspicuous irregularities in the nuclear membrane. Periodic acid‐Schiff staining of these atypical cells revealed fine granules in the cytoplasm. Giemsa staining showed foamy and/or multivacuolar cytoplasm in these cells, with metachromatic mucoid stroma in the surroundings. Immunocytochemistry analysis using cellblock showed these cells to be positive for broad cytokeratins, epithelial membrane antigen, S100 protein, vimentin, and Brachyury. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report in which chordoma cells were cytologically detected in pleural effusions. Our findings also suggest that conventional cytology combined with cellblock immunocytochemistry can increase the accuracy of chordoma cell detection in the serosal cavity.
Room‐Temperature Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Three‐Dimensional Flower‐Like α‐MnO2 Microspheres for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Chai Hui , Liu Anjie , Jia Wei , Cao Yali
Published: September 2021

Constructing manganese oxide nanoparticles with different crystal structures and morphologies is crucial for the development of improved supercapacitors. Here, zero‐dimensional (0D) α‐MnO2 and δ‐MnO2 nanoparticles were first synthesized by an ultra‐simple solvent‐free synthetic strategy. The α‐MnO2 nanoparticles exhibited better performance for supercapacitors than δ‐MnO2 nanoparticles due to a higher specific surface area and accelerated electrical charge transfer. Two‐dimensional (2D) α‐MnO2 nanosheets and three‐dimensional (3D) flower‐like α‐MnO2 microspheres were also fabricated by the inclusion of surfactants to investigate the effects of morphology on electrochemical storage capacity with the assistance of different surfactants. Notably, 3D α‐MnO2 microspheres exhibited enhanced electrochemical properties than 0D α‐MnO2 nanoparticles and 2D α‐MnO2 nanosheets for supercapacitors, and generated a favorable specific capacitance of 212.8 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, primarily originating from high porosity, which allows the full infiltration of electrolytes and the rapid shuttling of ions. This work thus describes a simple strategy for the synthesis of 2D nanosheets and 3D self‐assembled nanostructures of MnO2 for application in supercapacitor development.
Technology foresight for sustainable road freight transportation: Insights from a global real‐time Delphi study
Authors: Meyer Tobias , von der Gracht Heiko A. , Hartmann Evi
Published: September 2021

Organizations increasingly adopt technologies and logistics measures to improve their social sustainability, reduce transportation‐related carbon emissions, or even design their supply chains carbon negative. However, the speed at which this adoption is progressing is not fast enough to address the sustainability challenges of the world today. To gain deeper knowledge about the adoption process of sustainability‐related measures in road freight transportation, this paper examines barriers currently hindering a broader market penetration and derives expected timeframes when mass adoption of 14 relevant technologies will occur. Furthermore, the technologies' impacts on the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability are discussed providing recommendations, on which technologies the respective stakeholders might focus on in the future. Since we want to examines a long‐term technology perspective of the next 25 years, we rely on systematic foresight methodology. More specifically, we collect empirical data by use of a real‐time Delphi survey, which particularly suits complex and uncertain environments. Our global panel includes 116 experts from 25 different countries. The assessments are grouped into short‐term, midterm, midterm to long‐term, and long‐term developments. The categories shed light on potential drivers and barriers to the implementation of the surveyed technologies. The findings emphasize the need to systematically select suitable measures and promote those that are expected to deliver short‐term sustainability improvements to address current deficits in a timely manner. The article further outlines the crucial role of politics in developing necessary regulative frameworks to drive sustainability in road freight transportation.
The antimuscarinic agent biperiden selectively impairs recognition of abstract figures without affecting the processing of non‐words
Authors: Toth Monika , Sambeth Anke , Blokland Arjan
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The present study investigated the effects of biperiden, a muscarinic type 1 antagonist, on the recognition performance of pre‐experimentally unfamiliar abstract figures and non‐words in healthy young volunteers. The aim was to examine whether 4 mg biperiden could model the recognition memory impairment seen in healthy aging.

Methods

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, two‐way crossover study was conducted. We used a three‐phase (deep memorization, shallow memorization, and recognition) old/new discrimination paradigm in which memory strength was manipulated. Strong memories were induced by deep encoding and repetition. Deep encoding was encouraged by redrawing the abstract figures and mentioning existing rhyme words for the non‐words (semantic processing). Weak memories were created by merely instructing the participants to study the stimuli (shallow memorization).

Results

Biperiden impaired recognition accuracy and prolonged reaction times of the drawn and the studied abstract figures. However, participants were biased towards “old” responses in the placebo condition. The recognition of the new abstract figures was unaffected by the drug. Biperiden did not affect the recognition of the non‐words.

Conclusions

Although biperiden may model age‐related deficits in episodic memory, the current findings indicate that biperiden does not mimic age‐related deficits in recognition performance.
Efficacy of the depot gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist protocol on in vitro fertilization outcomes in young poor ovarian responders from POSEIDON group 3
Authors: Li Wenshu , Zhang Wei , Zhao Huishan , Chu Yongli , Liu Xuemei
Published: September 2021

Objective

To investigate whether the depot gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist protocol could improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes for young poor responders from POSEIDON group 3.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was carried out from June 2017 to June 2020. A total of 451 patients were assigned to three groups depending on the ovarian stimulation protocols. The outcome parameters of IVF were compared in each group.

Results

Patients who received the depot GnRH agonist had significantly higher cumulative clinical pregnancy rates (50.88%, 32.02%, and 31.88%, respectively; P = 0.009 and P = 0.007) and cumulative live birth rate (48.25%, 26.97%, and 28.99%, respectively; P = 0.004 and P = 0.009) compared with mild ovarian stimulation protocol and GnRH antagonist protocol. They also had higher live birth rate per fresh embryo transfer cycle (47.78%, 32.35%, and 36.62%, respectively), but these differences were not statistically significant. Moreover, duration of stimulation, total dose of gonadotropins and endometrial thickness were significantly higher among women who received the depot GnRH agonist (P < 0.001). However, they had lower embryo transfer cancellation rate, and abnormal endometrium rate (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The depot GnRH agonist protocol may improve cumulative clinical pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate for young women with poor ovarian response from POSEIDON group 3.
A pair of chiral Cu(II)‐Tb(III)‐Fe(III) heterotrimetallic enantiomers: Structural, luminescent, and magnetic studies
Authors: Wang Zi‐Xuan , Yuan Ya‐Nan , Wang Qing‐Lun , Wang Qi , Meng Xiang‐Jian , Yang Chun
Published: September 2021

One chiral heterotrimetallic compound, [Cu(H2O){(R,R)‐valcy}Tb(CH3OH)2(H2O)(μ‐CN)Fe(CN)5]·[Cu(H2O){(R,R)‐valcy}Tb(CH3OH)1.5(H2O)1.5(μ‐CN)Fe(CN)5]·7.85H2O·2CH3OH (1) (H2(R,R)‐valcy = N,N′‐bis(3‐methoxysalicylidene)‐1R,2R‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane), has been prepared and structurally characterized by X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction. In 1, the asymmetric trinuclear {CuIITbIIIFeIII} units are assembled into 1‐D supramolecular single chain by hydrogen‐bonds and the supramolecular chains are further connected into 2D sheets. Magnetic studies show overall weak ferromagnetic interaction and magnetic anisotropy. The enantiomer of 1, denoted as complex 2, derived from N,N′‐bis(3‐methoxysalicylidene)‐1S,2S‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane was also synthesized and characterized by PXRD, Infrared spectra, CD spectra, and fluorescence spectra. The results indicated that complexes 1 and 2 are isomorphous exhibiting similar fluorescence properties.
Clinico‐radiographic comparative evaluation of 1% metformin gel plus platelet‐rich fibrin over platelet‐rich fibrin alone in the treatment of Grade II furcation defects: A randomized controlled double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Swami Renuka K. , Kolte Abhay P. , Kolte Rajashri A.
Published: September 2021

Background

The present study was aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of 1% MF plus PRF over PRF alone in treatment of Grade II furcation defects, clinically and radiographically by using cone‐beam computed tomography.

Methods

This split‐mouth clinical trial randomly allotted 21 patients with 42 bilateral Grade II furcation defects into two groups. Group I was treated with PRF alone while Group II with 1% MF gel and PRF. The primary outcome parameters were clinical attachment level (CAL) and horizontal probing depth (HPD) while the secondary outcome parameters were probing depth (PD) and defect volume (DV). The clinical parameters were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months and the radiographic parameters at 12 months.

Results

Both the study groups yielded improvements in assessed parameters; however, significantly greater mean reduction of PD, HPD, and CAL gain was observed in Group II (3.90 ± 0.78 mm, 2.94 ± 0.80 mm, and 3.42 ± 0.93 mm) in comparison with Group I (3.23 ± 0.90 mm, 1.96 ± 0.80 mm, and 2.67 ± 0.88 mm) at 12 months, respectively. A significant reduction of DV was exhibited radiographically in Group II (12.61 ± 4.01 mm3) as compared with Group I (9.14 ± 4.31 mm3) at the end of 12 months.

Conclusions

Better clinical and radiographic findings in terms of reduction in PD, HPD, CAL gain, and significant reduction in DV in Group II patients indicated that the combination therapy of 1% MF + PRF promotes regenerative ability within the periodontal tissues in Grade II furcation defects to a greater extent.
Connective tissue growth factor promotes cell‐to‐cell communication in human periodontal ligament stem cells via MAPK and PI3K pathway
Authors: Wu Zuping , Chen Sirui , He Yuying , Zhang Demao , Zou Shujuan , Xie Jing , Zhou Chenchen
Published: September 2021

Background

Cell–cell communication is an essential process to respond to biological stimuli and sustain the micro environmental homeostasis of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a critical secreted matrix protein, exhibits significant tasks in regulating the cell‐cell and cell‐matrix interactions. This study aimed to explore the relationship between CTGF and cell communication and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

qRT‐PCR was used to detect CCN family, connexin, and pannexin family expression in hPDLSCs. Stimulation with CTGF, cell migration assay was performed to examine the wound repair. The scrape loading/dye transfer assay was employed to access lucifer Yellow molecules transfer efficiency mediated by cell‐cell communication. Connexin43 (Cx43), Pannexin1 (Panx1), MAPK, and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway proteins were examined via Western blotting. Immunofluorescence was applied to visualize the localization of specific proteins within cells. Corresponding pathway inhibitors were applied to hPDLSCs to detect Cx43, Panx1 expression, and intercellular communication induced by CTGF.

Results

Our result showed that CTGF was the second most expressed CCN family member in hPDLSCs. Cx43, and Panx1 were the most widely expressed gap junction hemichannels in hPDLSCs. CTGF enhanced hPDLSCs migration in a dose‐dependent manner. CTGF promoted cell‐cell communication by up‐regulating Cx43 and Panx1. CTGF induced Akt, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation and subcellular relocation. Inhibiting corresponding pathways reduced Cx43 expression, thereby weakening CTGF‐induced cell‐cell communication. However, the Panx1 expression in CTGF‐treated hPDLSCs mainly depended on PI3K/Akt signaling.

Conclusion

We provided novel evidence that CTGF promoted cell‐cell communication in hPDLSCs through MAPK and PI3K pathway.
Improved High‐Temperature Energy Storage Performance of PEI Dielectric Films by Introducing an SiO2 Insulating Layer
Authors: Zhang Tiandong , Yang Lianyin , Ruan Jinyu , Zhang Changhai , Chi Qingguo
Published: September 2021

Polymer dielectrics have the advantages of flexibility, good insulation, high power density, etc., which are widely used in the fields of pulsed power and power electronics. However, the conduction loss increases sharply at elevated temperature, which leads to the severely degraded energy storage performances and limits the polymer dielectric films to be used at elevated temperature. To address this issue, the SiO2 layer is grown on both side of polyetherimide (PEI) films by magnetron sputtering technology, the SiO2/PEI/SiO2 composite films with a sandwiched structure are successfully constructed. The results show that by growing a wide band gap SiO2 layer between the PEI film and the metal electrode can improve the height of the potential barrier at the electrode/dielectric interface, thus effectively reducing the conduction loss. The maximum discharge energy density is 2.96 J cm−3 when the charge–discharge efficiency is above 90%, which outperforms the reported dielectric polymers and composites. In addition, combining with the cycling charging/discharging results, SiO2/PEI/SiO2 composite films are demonstrated to have significant long‐term reliability and excellent discharging capability at elevated temperature.
A Fast Self‐Healing Magnetic Nanocomposite for Magnetic Actuators
Authors: Tao Han‐Qing , Yue De‐Wei , Li Cheng‐Hui
Published: September 2021

Magnetic actuators, which use magnetic effects for actuation, are very useful in many areas, such as electrical equipment, soft robots, and medical instruments. However, they inevitably suffer damage during long‐term use, leading to mechanical failure. Introduction of the self‐healing concept can solve this problem to a certain extent and extend their service life. Herein, a room‐temperature self‐healing magnetic nanocomposite is obtained using a simple, efficient, and environmental‐friendly strategy. In the authors' design, soft poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) polymeric materials are chosen as the matrix, and Fe3O4 nanoparticles are utilized as a functional magnetic nanofiller to obtain a new magnetic nanocomposite. By balancing the self‐healing property and mechanical performance, the optimal content of magnetic filler is determined to be 15 wt%. The optimized sample exhibits an ultimate tensile strength (0.44 MPa), a high tensile strain (400%), and an excellent self‐healing efficiency (62.2% mechanical recovery of fracture strength) at 25 °C for 30 min. Furthermore, this composite material shows an excellent and healable magnetic actuation performance. This new nanocomposite provides great potential for the magnetic actuation application.
RAS induced senescence of skin keratinocytes is mediated through Rho‐associated protein kinase (ROCK)
Authors: Lee Alex J. , Fraser Elise , Flowers Brittany , Kim Jee , Wong Kenneth , Cataisson Christophe , Liu Huaitian , Yang Howard , Lee Maxwell P. , Yuspa Stuart H. , Li Luowei
Published: September 2021

Cellular senescence is a well‐documented response to oncogene activation in many tissues. Multiple pathways are invoked to achieve senescence indicating its importance to counteract the transforming activities of oncogenic stimulation. We now report that the Rho‐associated protein kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway is a critical regulator of oncogene‐induced senescence in skin carcinogenesis. Transformation of mouse keratinocytes with oncogenic RAS upregulates ROCK activity and initiates a senescence response characterized by cell enlargement, growth inhibition, upregulation of senescence associated β‐galactosidase (SAβgal) expression, and release of multiple pro‐inflammatory factors comprising the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The addition of the ROCK inhibitor Y‐27632 and others prevents these senescence responses and maintains proliferating confluent RAS transformed keratinocyte cultures indefinitely. Mechanistically, oncogenic RAS transformation is associated with upregulation of cell cycle inhibitors p15Ink4b, p16Ink4a, and p19Arf and downregulation of p‐AKT, all of which are reversed by Y‐27632. RNA‐seq analysis of Y‐27632 treated RAS‐transformed keratinocytes indicated that the inhibitor reduced growth‐inhibitory gene expression profiles and maintained expression of proliferative pathways. Y‐27632 also reduced the expression of NF‐κB effector genes and the expression of IκBζ downstream mediators. The senescence inhibition from Y‐27632 was reversible, and upon its removal, senescence reoccurred in vitro with rapid upregulation of cell cycle inhibitors, SASP expression, and cell detachment. Y‐27632 treated cultured RAS‐keratinocytes formed tumors in the absence of the inhibitor when placed in skin orthografts suggesting that factors in the tumor microenvironment can overcome the drive to senescence imparted by overactive ROCK activity.
Anti‐disturbance inverse optimal control for systems with disturbances
Authors: Fan Zhong‐Xin , Chandra Adhikary Avizit , Li Shihua , Liu Rongjie
Published: September 2021

Inverse optimal control is a widely used technique for solving various optimal problems arising in the controlled system. However, this method becomes inapplicable to optimal problems when the system has disturbances. In this article, we propose a novel anti‐disturbance inverse optimal controller design for a class of high‐dimensional chain structure systems with any disturbances, matched, or mismatched. First, a disturbance observer is employed to get the estimates of the disturbances in the system. Then using backstepping approach, the disturbance estimation is incorporated in the virtual control laws, and consequently a control Lyapunov function (CLF) is obtained. Finally, a composite controller is designed by developing an inverse optimal control method using the obtained CLF function. We show the stability analysis of the anti‐disturbance controller with rigorous proofs, which minimizes an optimal index while the output converges. Moreover, simulation study and analysis for real application to DC–DC buck converters reveal that the proposed composite controller achieves good performance and stabilizes the system with disturbances.
Advances in polymer‐based matte coatings: A review
Authors: Yong Qiwen , Xu Dan , Liu Qi , Xiao Yao , Wei Daidong
Published: September 2021

In modern society, polymer‐based matte coatings have gained widespread attention for its low gloss and exquisite texture characteristics, which are capable of providing soft‐light environmental atmosphere and pleasant tactile feeling. This paper reports the definition of gloss, the measuring method, and classification of gloss, the mechanism, and method of extinction, as well as the factors that affect the gloss of films. The most significant work of this paper focuses on the research advancements in synthesis methods and matting mechanisms of ultraviolet light‐curing matte coatings, powder matte coatings and water‐based matte coatings. In general, compared with traditional polymer‐based matte coatings, a new‐developed chemical matte coating can avoid film defects caused by the addition of matting agents. Meanwhile, it can lower the raw material costs and streamline the production procedures, which are supposed to be the future development trend of matting resin industry.
SPOP andCHD1alterations in prostate cancer: Relationship with PTEN loss, tumor grade, perineural infiltration, and PSA recurrence
Authors: Hernández‐Llodrà Silvia , Segalés Laura , Juanpere Nuria , Marta Lorenzo Tech , Salido Marta , Nonell Lara , David López Tech , Rodríguez‐Vida Alejo , Bellmunt Joaquim , Fumadó Lluís , Cecchini Lluís , Lloreta‐Trull Josep
Published: September 2021

Background

In the non‐ETSfusion of prostate cancer (PCa) pathway,SPOPmutations emerge as a distinct oncogenic driver subclass. BothSPOPdownregulation and mutation can lead toSPOPtarget stabilization promoting dysregulation of key regulatory pathways.CHD1gene is commonly deleted in PCa.CHD1loss significantly co‐occurs withSPOPmutations, resulting in a PCa subclass with increased AR transcriptional activity and with a specific epigenetic pattern.

Methods

In this study, SPOP alterations at mutational and protein levels andCHD1copy number alterations have been analyzed and correlated with ERG and PTEN protein expression and with the clinical pathological features of the patients.

Results

SPOP protein loss has been detected in 42.9% of the cases, and it has been strongly associated with PTEN protein loss (p < .001).CHD1gene loss has been detected in 24.5% andSPOPmutations in 5.9% of the cases. Loss ofCHD1has been strongly associated withSPOPmutations (p = .003) and has shown a trend to be associated with ERGwtcancers (p = .08).

The loss of SPOP protein (p = .01) and the combination of PTEN and SPOP protein loss (p = .002) were both statistically more common in grade group 5 cancers, with a prevalence of 60% and 37.5%, respectively. Furthermore, SPOP loss/PTEN loss and SPOPwt/PTEN loss phenotypes were strongly associated with extraprostatic perineural infiltration (p = .007). StrongCHD1loss was associated with a shorter time to PSA recurrence in the univariate (p = .04), and showed a trend to be associated with the PSA recurrence risk in the multivariate analysis (p = .058).

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that the loss of SPOP protein expression, either alone or in combination with loss of PTEN and, on the other hand, a marked loss of theCHD1gene are very promising prognostic biomarkers in PCa.
Rosamultin from Potentilla anserine L. exhibits nephroprotection and antioxidant activity by regulating the reactive oxygen species/C/EBP homologous protein signaling pathway
Authors: He Luan , Liu Ning , Wang Kexin , Zhang Ling , Li Dan , Wang Zhixiang , Xu Guoqiang , Liu Yanli , Xu Qiongming
Published: September 2021

Rosamultin, a major bioactive constituent from Potentilla anserine L., has antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities. However, its protective effects on cisplatin‐induced acute renal injury and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this work, rosamultin could enhance the viability of HEK293 cells treated by cisplatin. In vivo experiment showed that rosamultin effectively decreased kidney index, reduced blood urea nitrogen level, decreased urinary protein excretion, and ameliorated the histopathological damage and fibrosis of renal tissue induced by cisplatin. Besides, rosamultin showed no obvious toxicity in mice. SILAC‐based quantitative proteomic analysis identified 4,461 proteins and eight proteins including C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) were markedly decreased in cisplatin‐treated HEK293 cells when exposed to rosamultin. Biochemical experiments further discovered that rosamultin could inhibit p38 and JNK activation, and downregulate the levels of CHOP and proteins in its upstream PERK‐eIF2α‐ATF4 signaling pathway stimulated by cisplatin or tunicamycin. At the same time, rosamultin reduced the generation of intracellular ROS induced by cisplatin and enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GSH, and CAT. Moreover, rosamultin markedly suppressed the expression of CHOP, apoptosis‐associated proteins, and activation of p38 and JNK in renal tissue. These findings suggest that rosamultin might be a potential protectant against cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Paediatric haemoptysis from multiple pulmonary artery aneurysms
Authors: Tovichien Prakarn , Kaeotawee Phatthareeda
Published: September 2021

The case of multiple peripheral pulmonary artery aneurysms in children presenting with haemoptysis following an episode of bacterial endocarditis is presented. They are extremely rare and clinically non‐specific but critical because early diagnosis is crucial for preventing sudden death from their rupture. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography remains the investigation of choice. Despite no consensus recommendation on the management, a multidisciplinary team should plan the beneficial approach with minimal procedure‐related morbidity and mortality to improve survival. This case report aimed to emphasize the recognition of this rare cause of haemoptysis in children.
Synthesis of L‐Malic Acid Based Poly(ester‐thioether)s via Thiol‐Ene Click Polymerization and Their Biodegradability
Authors: Sato Yuka , Takasu Akinori
Published: September 2021

Many bio‐based polymers made from natural resources do not show satisfactory biodegradability, leading to micro‐plastic pollution. Here, thiol‐ene click polymerization of di‐3‐butenyl l‐malate (BMA) and diallyl l‐malate (AMA) with several dithiols including 1,8‐octanedithiol (OD) proceeded at 80 °C to give poly(ester‐thioether)s in excellent yields (70 %–90 %). Using an azo‐type radical trigger, polymerization proceeded more rapidly to give the expected poly(ester‐thioether)s with Mn ranging from 1.9×103 to 9.4×103 and a molecular dispersity index (Mw/Mn) of 2.19–3.66. Click polymerization using 1,2‐ethanedithiol (ED), ethylene bis(thioglycolate), and 2,3‐butanedithiol proceeded to give similar poly(ester‐thioether)s. In differential scanning calorimetry, all samples except for poly(BMA‐alt‐OD) had single Tg values between −37 and −47 °C. In biodegradation tests using activated sludge, poly(BMA‐alt‐OD) and poly(AMA‐alt‐ED) hardly showed biodegradability, but the other poly(ester‐thioether)s showed 13 %–22 % biodegradation after 28 days. Our results open up new avenues in the design of bio‐based polymers to reduce micro‐plastic pollution.
Towards cloud‐based unobtrusive monitoring in remote multi‐vendor environments
Authors: Moeyersons Jerico , Kerkhove Sarah , Wauters Tim , De Turck Filip , Volckaert Bruno
Published: September 2021

Nowadays, many complex multi‐vendor production environments, such as telecom infrastructures in smart cities or on‐board passenger information systems in trains, are based on micro‐services and deployed in the cloud. From a service integrator viewpoint, building new solutions for these environments, which can host a large number of externally designed and developed micro‐services, is often complex and error‐prone. This is in part due to undocumented behaviour or undocumented architectural specifications of such systems. Advanced service monitoring can offer a solution to quickly detect anomalies or unexpected service interaction behaviour during on‐site integration. However, the monitoring service should not have an impact on the production environment itself. Therefore, this article proposes an agent‐based unobtrusive monitoring platform, capable of monitoring both internally developed and externally developed services through the use of sidecar containers. It monitors state, metrics and network traffic at micro‐service level and the research was conducted as part of the DynAMo research project, a collaboration with various industry partners. Prototype evaluation proves that our solution has a negligible impact (below 0.02% CPU usage on average) on an existing micro‐service environment just as other monitoring systems like Prometheus while offering additional functionality focused on multi‐vendor service integration. This makes it suitable to be deployed in complex production domains to further aid on‐site integration and quickly find potential new anomalies.
Investigation of the effect of raster angle, build orientation, and infill density on the elastic response of 3D printed parts using finite element microstructural modeling and homogenization techniques
Authors: Gonabadi Hassan , Chen Yao , Yadav Arti , Bull Steve
Published: September 2021

Although the literature is abundant with the experimental methods to characterize mechanical behavior of parts made by fused filament fabrication 3D printing, less attention has been paid in using computational models to predict the mechanical properties of these parts. In the present paper, a numerical homogenization technique is developed to predict the effect of printing process parameters on the elastic response of 3D printed parts with cellular lattice structures. The development of finite element computational models of printed parts is based on a multi scale approach. Initially, at the micro scale level, the analysis of micro-mechanical models of a representative volume element is used to calculate the effective orthotropic properties. The finite element models include different infill densities and building/raster orientation maintaining the bonded region between the adjacent fibers and layers. The elastic constants obtained by this method are then used as an input for the creation of macro scale finite element models enabling the simulation of the mechanical response of printed samples subjected to the bending, shear, and tensile loads. Finally, the results obtained by the homogenization technique are validated against more realistic finite element explicit microstructural models and experimental measurements. The results show that, providing an accurate characterization of the properties to be fed into the macro scale model, the use of the homogenization technique is a reliable tool to predict the elastic response of 3D printed parts. The outlined approach provides faster iterative design of 3D printed parts, contributing to reducing the number of experimental replicates and fabrication costs.
Child safety programs for primary school children decrease the injury severity of dog bites
Authors: Kienesberger Bernhard , Arneitz Christoph , Wolfschluckner Vanessa , Flucher Christina , Spitzer Peter , Singer Georg , Castellani Christoph , Till Holger , Schalamon Johannes
Published: September 2021

This study focuses on the impact of a prevention program regarding dog bites in children. As a consequence of our previous investigation in 2005, we have initiated a child safety program for primary school children starting January 2008 until present to teach children how to avoid dog attacks and how to behave in case of an attack. In our retrospective study, we analyzed all patients younger than 15 years presenting with dog-related injuries between 2014 and 2018. As the main indicator for success of the prevention measures taken, we have defined the severity of injury in comparison to our previous study. Out of 296 children with dog-related injuries, 212 (71.6%) had sustained a dog bite. In the vast majority (n = 195; 92%), these patients presented with minor injuries; the extremities were most commonly affected (n = 100; 47%). Injuries to the head (n = 95; 45%) and trunk (n = 18; 8%) were less frequent. The proportion of severe injuries (8%) was significantly lower compared to our previous study, where 26% of children presented with severe injuries necessitating surgical intervention, while the number of patients requiring in-hospital treatment declined from 27.5% in the period 1994–2003 to 9.0% in the period between 2014 and 2018 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Teaching of primary school children may effectively reduce the injury severity of dog bites.

What is Known:• Dog bites are a substantial healthcare problem especially in children.

What is New:• This study shows that a broad-based prevention program for primary school children can effectively decrease the severity but not the frequency of dog bite injuries in children.
Generalization of a method by Mossotti for initial orbit determination
Authors: Gronchi Giovanni F. , Baù Giulio , Rodríguez Óscar , Jedicke Robert , Moeyens Joachim
Published: September 2021

Here, we revisit an initial orbit determination method introduced by O. F. Mossotti employing four geocentric sky-plane observations and a linear equation to compute the angular momentum of the observed body. We then extend the method to topocentric observations, yielding a quadratic equation for the angular momentum. The performance of the two versions is compared through numerical tests with synthetic asteroid data using different time intervals between consecutive observations and different astrometric errors. We also show a comparison test with Gauss’s method using simulated observations with the expected cadence of the VRO–LSST telescope.
Conditioning surface-based geological models to well data using artificial neural networks
Authors: Titus Zainab , Heaney Claire , Jacquemyn Carl , Salinas Pablo , Jackson MD , Pain Christopher
Published: September 2021

Surface-based modelling provides a computationally efficient approach for generating geometrically realistic representations of heterogeneity in reservoir models. However, conditioning Surface-Based Geological Models (SBGMs) to well data can be challenging because it is an ill-posed inverse problem with spatially distributed parameters. To aid fast and efficient conditioning, we use here SBGMs that model geometries using parametric, grid-free surfaces that require few parameters to represent even realistic geological architectures. A neural network is trained to learn the underlying process of generating SBGMs by learning the relationship between the parametrized SBGM inputs and the resulting facies identified at well locations. To condition the SBGM to these observed data, inverse modelling of the SBGM inputs is achieved by replacing the forward model with the pre-trained neural network and optimizing the network inputs using the back-propagation technique applied in training the neural network. An analysis of the uncertainties associated with the conditioned realisations demonstrates the applicability of the approach for evaluating spatial variations in geological heterogeneity away from control data in reservoir modelling. This approach for generating geologically plausible models that are calibrated with observed well data could also be extended to other geological modelling techniques such as object- and process-based modelling.
(In)civility and adolescents’ moral decision making online: drawing on moral theory to advance digital citizenship education
Authors: Harrison Tom , Polizzi Gianfranco
Published: September 2021

This article draws on moral theory to advance digital citizenship education and explore how adolescents aged 13–16 make decisions when confronted with incivility, such as cyberbullying, on social media. Given the extent to which digital citizenship education may be approached in line with deontological (rules), utilitarian (consequences) and/or virtue ethical (character) theories, we argue that it is important to know which of these underpin adolescents’ moral decision making online. To address this question, this article reports findings from a survey completed by 1947 13–16 year olds in England. Chi-square tests, binary logistic regressions and other exploratory analysis showed that most 13–16 year-olds use virtue ethical reasons to justify moral actions. We conclude that if online incivility is to be reduced, policymakers, educators and parents should focus more on virtue- and character-based approaches to digital citizenship education.
FSH levels and testicular volumes are associated with the severity of testicular histopathology in men with non-obstructive azoospermia
Authors: Kavoussi Parviz K. , Hudson Kayla , Machen G. Luke , Barsky Maya , Lebovic Dan I. , Kavoussi Shahryar K.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess a potential association between FSH levels and testicular volumes with the severity of testicular histopathology on testicular biopsy in men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) undergoing microdissection testicular sperm extraction (microTESE).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed from the electronic health records of men who underwent microTESE with NOA.

Results

Eighty-six men with NOA underwent microTESE with concomitant testicular biopsy for permanent section to assess the testicular cellular architecture. The histopathological patterns were categorized by severity indicating the odds of sperm retrieval into 2 categories. The unfavorable category included Sertoli cell only pattern and early maturation arrest (n = 50) and the favorable category included late maturation arrest and hypospermatogenesis patterns (n = 36). In the men with unfavorable histopathologic patterns, the mean FSH level was 22.9 ± 16.6 IU/L, and the mean testicular volume was 10.4 ± 6.0 cc. This was in comparison to men with favorable histopathologic patterns revealing a mean FSH level of FSH 13.3 ± 12.0 with a mean testicular volume of 13.3 ± 5.9 cc. There was a statistically significant higher FSH level in men with unfavorable histopathology than favorable (p = 0.004) as well as a significant smaller mean testicular volume in men with unfavorable histopathology (p = 0.029).

Conclusions

Higher serum FSH levels and smaller testicular volumes are associated with more severe testicular histopathological patterns in men with NOA.
Academic Reform in Fractured Disciplines – On the Interaction of Bologna, New-Public-Management and the Dynamics of Disciplinary Development
Authors: Grunert Cathleen , Ludwig Katja
Published: September 2021

At the intersection of science studies and higher education research, this contribution looks at the way in which the requirements of universities as organizations release development dynamics in academic disciplines and it analyses the interaction between discipline and organization. We will analyse German educational science, bearing in mind it is an example of disciplines that are fractured and consequently have little consensus in terms of fundamental theories and basic concepts. Firstly, we take on a quantitative approach and analyse the changes in degree courses at the structural level and the symbolic boundaries or conceptual distinctions following the transition to the Bachelor and Master system. Secondly, we take a close look at the negotiating processes and practices, as well as at the disciplinary orientations that determine these boundary shifts, using a qualitative approach that focuses on the actors. In group discussions with representatives of the German educational science at different universities it stood out that actors involved in course design are compelled to find an equilibrium between the demands of the discipline and those of the organization, and do so in very different ways. Finally, we discuss the extent to which close interaction between higher education reforms and academic disciplines can be figured out, particularly for disciplines seen as fractured and which do not have consensual common disciplinary standards.