bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro cellular and proteome assays identify Wnt pathway and CDKN2A-regulated senescence affected in mesenchymal stem cells from mice after a chronic LD gamma irradiation in utero
Authors: Schuster Martina , Tewary Gargi , Bao Xuanwen , Subedi Prabal , Hauck Stefanie M. , Olsen Ann Karin , Eide Dag Markus , Trott Klaus Rüdiger , Götz Sebastian , Atkinson Michael J. , Rosemann Michael
Published: July 2021

Reliable data on the effects of chronic prenatal exposure to low dose (LD) of ionizing radiation in humans are missing. There are concerns about adverse long-term effects that may persist throughout postnatal life of the offspring. Due to their slow cell cycle kinetics and life-long residence time in the organism, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are more susceptible to low level genotoxic stress caused by extrinsic multiple LD events. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic, prenatal LD gamma irradiation to the biology of MSCs later in life. C3H mice were exposed in utero to chronic prenatal irradiation of 10 mGy/day over a period of 3 weeks. Two years later, MSCs were isolated from the bone marrow and analyzed in vitro for their radiosensitivity, for cellular senescence and for DNA double-strand break recognition after a second acute gamma-irradiation. In addition to these cellular assays, changes in protein expression were measured using HPLC–MS/MS and dysregulated molecular signaling pathways identified using bioinformatics. We observed radiation-induced proteomic changes in MSCs from the offspring of in utero irradiated mice (leading to ~ 9.4% of all detected proteins being either up- or downregulated) as compared to non-irradiated controls. The proteomic changes map to regulation pathways involved in the extracellular matrix, the response to oxidative stress, and the Wnt signaling pathway. In addition, chronic prenatal LD irradiation lead to an increased rate of in vitro radiation-induced senescence later in life and to an increased number of residual DNA double-strand breaks after 4 Gy irradiation, indicating a remarkable interaction of in vivo radiation in combination with a second acute dose of in vitro radiation. This study provides the first insight into a molecular mechanism of persistent MSC damage response by ionizing radiation exposure during prenatal time and will help to predict therapeutic safety and efficacy with respect to a clinical application of stem cells.
Outcome after surgical treatment of cerebrospinal fluid leaks in spontaneous intracranial hypotension—a matter of time
Authors: Häni Levin , Fung Christian , Jesse Christopher Marvin , Ulrich Christian Thomas , Piechowiak Eike Immo , Gralla Jan , Raabe Andreas , Dobrocky Tomas , Beck Jürgen
Published: July 2021

Objective

Spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks cause spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Microsurgery can sufficiently seal spinal CSF leaks. Yet, some patients suffer from residual symptoms. Aim of the study was to assess predictors for favorable outcome after surgical treatment of SIH.

Methods

We included consecutive patients with SIH treated surgically from January 2013 to May 2020. Subjects were surveyed by a questionnaire. Primary outcome was resolution of symptoms as rated by the patient. Secondary outcome was postoperative headache intensity on the numeric rating scale (NRS). Association between variables and outcome was assessed using univariate and multivariate regression. A cut-off value for continuous variables was calculated by a ROC analysis.

Results

Sixty-nine out of 86 patients (80.2%) returned the questionnaire and were analyzed. Mean age was 46.7 years and 68.1% were female. A significant association with the primary and secondary outcome was found only for preoperative symptom duration (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001), whereby a shorter symptom duration was associated with a better outcome. Symptom duration remained a significant predictor in a multivariate model (p = 0.013). Neither sex, age, type of pathology, lumbar opening pressure, nor initial presentation were associated with the primary outcome. ROC analysis yielded treatment within 12 weeks as a cut-off for better outcome.

Conclusion

Shorter duration of preoperative symptoms is the most powerful predictor of favorable outcome after surgical treatment of SIH. While an initial attempt of conservative treatment is justified, we advocate early definitive treatment within 12 weeks in case of persisting symptoms.
Progression of myopia in a natural cohort of Chinese children during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ma Dandan , Wei Shifei , Li Shi-Ming , Yang Xiaohui , Cao Kai , Hu Jianping , Fan Sujie , Zhang Lihua , Wang Ningli
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To determine myopia progression in children during the COVID-19 and the related factors associated with myopia.

Methods

All subjects underwent three-timepoint ocular examinations that were measured in July 2019, January, and August 2020. We compared the changes in uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), mydriatic spherical equivalent (SE), and axial length (AL) between two periods (before and during COVID-19). A questionnaire was performed to investigate risk factors for myopia.

Results

Compared with before the COVID-19, the mean (S.D.) myopia progression during the COVID-19 was significantly higher in right eyes (− 0.93 (0.65) vs. − 0.33 (0.47) D; p < 0.001). However, the differences in UCVA changes and the axial elongation between two periods were clinically insignificant. Through logistic regressive analysis, we found the difference of the SE changes was associated with the baseline AL (P = 0.028; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.058, 2.632), online education (P = 0.02; 95% CI, 1.587, 8.665), and time of digital screen (p < 0.005; 95% CI, 1.587, 4.450).

Conclusions

Children were at higher risk of myopia progression during COVID-19, which was associated with the baseline AL, the longtime online learning, and digital screen reading.
Neurological development and iron supplementation in healthy late-preterm neonates: a randomized double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Luciano R. , Romeo D. M. , Mancini G. , Sivo S. , Dolci C. , Velli C. , Turriziani Colonna A. , Vento G. , Romagnoli C. , Mercuri E. M.
Published: July 2021

Late-preterm infants (LPT) are at increased risk for long-term neurodevelopmental sequelae and iron deficiency. The aim of the study is to assess the positive effect of iron supplementation on psychomotor development in healthy LPT. We designed a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial dividing the newborns into two groups. Every patient was assessed using the Griffiths Mental Development Scales (GMDS)-II edition at 12-month post-conceptional age. The study was performed at the Neonatology Unit of our Hospital, in Italy. Sixty-six healthy LPT infants born between 340⁄7 and 366⁄7 weeks of gestational age were enrolled in the study. One group received martial prophylaxis from the third week of life to 6 months of post-conceptional age (2 mg/kg/day of iron pidolate), the other received placebo. Fifty-two of the enrolled infants were assessed using the GMDS at 12-month of post-conceptional age. Statistical analysis of the mean scores of the Griffiths subscales was performed. There was a difference in the mean developmental quotient (DQ) (p < 0.01) between the two groups: iron group mean DQ 121.45 ± 10.53 vs placebo group mean DQ 113.25 ± 9.70. Moreover, mean scores of the Griffiths subscales A, B, and D showed significant differences between the two groups (scale A p < 0.05, scale B p < 0.02, scale D p < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions: We recommend that all LPT neonates receive iron supplementation during the first 6 months of life in order to improve their 1-year neurodevelopmental quotient.

What is Known:• Late-preterm infants (LPT) are at increased risk for long-term neurodevelopmental sequelae and also for iron deficiency.• Iron deficiency is an independent risk factor for adverse neurological outcomes.

What is New:• Healthy late-preterm who received iron supplementation during the first 6 months of life achieved better neurological outcomes at 12-month post-conceptional age than LPT who received placebo.• Our study strongly supports the need for the implementation of martial prophylaxis in LPT neonates.
Ernst von Leyden (1832–1910): a pioneer in making oncology a respected medical discipline
Authors: Voswinckel Peter , Hansson Nils
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This article presents new research on the role of the renowned German physician Ernst von Leyden (1832–1910) in the emergence of oncology as a scientific discipline.

Methods

The article draws on archival sources from the archive of the German Society of Haematology and primary and secondary literature.

Results

Leyden initiated two important events in the early history of oncology: the first international cancer conference, which took place in Heidelberg, Germany, in 1906, and the founding of the first international association for cancer research (forerunner of today's UICC) in Berlin in 1908. Unfortunately, these facts are not mentioned in the most recent accounts. Both had a strong impact on the professionalization of oncology as a discipline in its own right.

Conclusion

Although not of Jewish origin, von Leyden was considered by the National Socialists to be “Jewish tainted”, which had a lasting effect on his perception at home and abroad.
Epigenetic dysregulation in various types of cells exposed to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields
Authors: Giorgi Gianfranco , Del Re Brunella
Published: July 2021

Epigenetic mechanisms regulate gene expression, without changing the DNA sequence, and establish cell-type-specific temporal and spatial expression patterns. Alterations of epigenetic marks have been observed in several pathological conditions, including cancer and neurological disorders. Emerging evidence indicates that a variety of environmental factors may cause epigenetic alterations and eventually influence disease risks. Humans are increasingly exposed to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs), which in 2002 were classified as possible carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the link between the exposure to ELF-MFs and epigenetic alterations in various cell types. In spite of the limited number of publications, available evidence indicates that ELF-MF exposure can be associated with epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, modifications of histones and microRNA expression. Further research is needed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed phenomena.
Patient activation and patient-reported outcomes of men from a community pharmacy lifestyle intervention after prostate cancer treatment
Authors: Lemanska Agnieszka , Poole Karen , Manders Ralph , Marshall John , Nazar Zachariah , Noble Kevin , Saxton John M. , Turner Lauren , Warner Gary , Griffin Bruce A. , Faithfull Sara
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To report patient activation, which is the knowledge, skills, and confidence in self-managing health conditions, and patient-reported outcomes of men after prostate cancer treatment from a community pharmacy lifestyle intervention.

Methods

The 3-month lifestyle intervention was delivered to 116 men in nine community pharmacies in the UK. Patient Activation Measure (PAM) was assessed at baseline, 3 and 6 months. Prostate cancer-related function and quality of life were assessed using the European Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-26) and EuroQOL 5-dimension 5-level (EQ5D-5L) questionnaires at baseline and 6 months. Lifestyle assessments included Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) at baseline, 3 and 6 months and Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) at baseline and 3 months.

Results

PAM score increased from 62 [95% CI 59–65] at baseline to 66 [64–69] after the intervention (p = 0.001) and remained higher at 6 months (p = 0.008). Scores for all the EPIC-26 domains (urinary, bowel and hormonal) were high at both assessments, indicating good function (between 74 [70–78] and 89 [86–91]), except sexual domain, where scores were much lower (21 [17–25] at baseline, increasing to 24 [20–28] at 6 months (p = 0.012)). In EQ5D-5L, 3% of men [1–9] reported self-care problems, while 50% [41–60] reported pain and discomfort, and no significant changes over time. Men who received androgen deprivation therapy, compared with those who did not, reported higher (better) urinary incontinence scores (p < 0.001), but lower (worse) scores in the urinary irritative/obstructive (p = 0.003), bowel (p < 0.001) and hormonal (p < 0.001) domains. Poor sexual function was common across all age groups irrespective of prostate cancer treatment.

Conclusions

The intervention led to significant improvements in patient activation, exercise and diet. Community pharmacy could deliver effective services to address sexual dysfunction, pain and discomfort which are common after prostate cancer.
Sparse graphs and an augmentation problem
Authors: Király Csaba , Mihálykó András
Published: July 2021

For two integers $$k>0$$

k
>
0

and $$\ell $$
ℓ
, a graph $$G=(V,E)$$

G
=
(
V
,
E
)

is called $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-tight if $$|E|=k|V|-\ell $$

|
E
|
=
k
|
V
|
-
ℓ

and $$i_G(X)\le k|X|-\ell $$

i
G

(
X
)

≤
k

|
X
|

-
ℓ

for each $$X\subseteq V$$

X
⊆
V

for which $$i_G(X)\ge 1$$

i
G

(
X
)

≥
1

, where $$i_G(X)$$

i
G

(
X
)

denotes the number of induced edges by X. G is called $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-redundant if $$G-e$$

G
-
e

has a spanning $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-tight subgraph for all $$e\in E$$

e
∈
E

. We consider the following augmentation problem. Given a graph $$G=(V,E)$$

G
=
(
V
,
E
)

that has a $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-tight spanning subgraph, find a graph $$H=(V,F)$$

H
=
(
V
,
F
)

with the minimum number of edges, such that $$G\cup H$$

G
∪
H

is $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-redundant. We give a polynomial algorithm and a min-max theorem for this augmentation problem when the input is $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-tight. For general inputs, we give a polynomial algorithm when $$k\ge \ell $$

k
≥
ℓ

and show the NP-hardness of the problem when $$k<\ell $$

k
<
ℓ

. Since $$(k,\ell )$$

(
k
,
ℓ
)

-tight graphs play an important role in rigidity theory, these algorithms can be used to make several types of rigid frameworks redundantly rigid by adding a smallest set of new bars.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy before surgery of third ventricle and posterior fossa tumours decreases the risk of secondary hydrocephalus and early postoperative complications
Authors: Tabakow Pawel , Weiser Artur , Burzynska Malgorzata , Blauciak Przemyslaw
Published: July 2021

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is an effective treatment for obstructive hydrocephalus (HCP) at the level of third or fourth ventricle. To date, there is no consensus regarding its role as intervention preceding the operation of tumour removal. The aim of this prospective open-label controlled study is to assess if ETV prevents secondary HCP after tumour removal and if ETV influences the early results of tumour surgery. The study was performed on 68 patients operated for tumours of the third ventricle and posterior fossa. In 30 patients, ETV was performed several days before tumour removal, while in 38 patients, the tumour was removed during a one-stage procedure without ETV. Patients who did not receive ETV before the tumour removal procedure had a higher probability of developing postoperative HCP (n = 12, p = 0.03). They also demonstrated a substantially higher rate of early postoperative complications (n = 20, p = 0.002) and a lower Karnofsky score (p = 0.004) than patients in whom ETV was performed before tumour removal. The performance of external ventricular drainage in the non-ETV group did not prevent secondary HCP (p = 0.68). Postoperative cerebellar swelling (p = 0.01), haematoma (p = 0.04), cerebrospinal fluid leak (p = 0.04) and neuroinfection (p = 0.04) were the main risk factors of persistent HCP. Performance of ETV before tumour removal is not only beneficial for control of acute HCP but also prevents the occurrence of secondary postoperative HCP and may also minimize early postoperative complications.
Resolving the spatial distributions of Dipturus intermedius and Dipturus batis—the two taxa formerly known as the ‘common skate’
Authors: Bache-Jeffreys Maisie , de Moraes Bárbara Lins Caldas , Ball Rachel E. , Menezes Gui , Pálsson Jónbjörn , Pampoulie Christophe , Stevens Jamie R. , Griffiths Andrew M.
Published: July 2021

Batoid fishes are among the most endangered marine vertebrates, yet conservation efforts have been confounded by incomplete taxonomy. Evidence suggest that the critically endangered ‘common skate’ actually represents two species: the flapper skate (Dipturus intermedius) and the blue skate (Dipturus batis). However, knowledge of the geographic range of these two nominal species is limited. Here, DNA sequencing is used to distinguish these species, allowing their spatial distributions to be clarified. These records were also used as the basis for species distribution modelling, providing the first broad scale models for each species across the Northeast Atlantic. Samples were obtained from Iceland, the UK (specifically Shetland), the North Sea and the Azores. Results suggest that D. batis was commonly distributed in the Western Approaches and Celtic Sea, extending out to Rockall and Iceland. D. intermedius generally appears to be less abundant, but was most frequent around northern Scotland and Ireland, including the northern North Sea, and was also present in Portugal. Two individuals were also identified from seamounts in remote areas of the Atlantic around the Azores, the furthest south and west the species has been found. This supports reports that the flapper skate historically had a much wider distribution (which was also highlighted in the distribution model), emphasising the large scale over which fisheries may have led to extirpations. Furthermore, these Azorean samples shared a unique control region haplotype, highlighting the importance of seamounts in preserving genetic diversity.
Space Project for Astrophysical and Cosmological Exploration (SPACE), an ESA stand-alone mission and a possible contribution to the Origins Space Telescope
Authors: Burgarella Denis , Bunker Andrew , Bouwens Rychard , Pagani Laurent , Afonso Jose , Atek Hakim , Audard Marc , Cabrit Sylvie , Caputi Karina , Ciesla Laure , Conselice Christopher , Cooray Asantha , Cresci Giovanni , Curti Mirko , Espinosa José Miguel Rodríguez , Ferrari Marc , Kobayashi Chiaki , Lagarde Nadège , Maestro Jesus Gallego , Maiolino Roberto , Malek Katarzyna , Mannucci Filippo , Montillaud Julien , Oesch Pascal , Pearson Chris , Pollo Agnieszka , Reylé Céline , Rosario David , Sakon Itsuki , Schaerer Daniel , Sharples Ray , Sobral David , Zamkotsian Frédéric
Published: July 2021

We propose a new mission called Space Project for Astrophysical and Cosmological Exploration (SPACE) as part of the ESA long term planning Voyage 2050 programme.SPACEwill study galaxy evolution at the earliest times, with the key goals of charting the formation of the heavy elements, measuring the evolution of the galaxy luminosity function, tracing the build-up of stellar mass in galaxies over cosmic time, and finding the first super-massive black holes (SMBHs) to form. The mission will exploit a unique region of the parameter space, between the narrow ultra-deep surveys with HST and JWST, and shallow wide-field surveys such as the Roman Space Telescope and EUCLID, and should yield by far the largest sample of any current or planned mission of very high redshift galaxies at z > 10 which are sufficiently bright for detailed follow-up spectroscopy. Crucially, we propose a wide-field spectroscopic near-IR + mid-IR capability which will greatly enhance our understanding of the first galaxies by detecting and identifying a statistical sample of the first galaxies and the first supermassive black holes, and to chart the metal enrichment history of galaxies in the early Universe – potentially finding signatures of the very first stars to form from metal-free primordial gas. The wide-field and wavelength range ofSPACEwill also provide us a unique opportunity to study star formation by performing a wide survey of the Milky Way in the near-IR + mid-IR. This science project can be enabled either by a stand-alone ESA-led M mission or by an instrument for an L mission (with ESA and/or NASA, JAXA and other international space agencies) with a wide-field (sub-)millimetre capability at λ > 500 μm.
Inference of time series components by online co-evolution
Authors: Koryakin Danil , Otte Sebastian , Butz Martin V.
Published: July 2021

Time series data is often composed of a multitude of individual, superimposed dynamics. We propose a novel algorithm for inferring time series compositions through evolutionary synchronization of modular networks (ESMoN). ESMoN orchestrates a set of trained dynamic modules, assuming that some of those modules’ dynamics, suitably parameterized, will be present in the targeted time series. With the help of iterative co-evolution techniques, ESMoN optimizes the activities of its modules dynamically, which effectively synchronizes the system with the unfolding time series signal and distributes the dynamic subcomponents present in the time series over the respective modules. We show that ESMoN can adapt modules of different types. Moreover, it is able to precisely identify the signal components of various time series dynamics. We thus expect that ESMoN will be useful also in other domains—including, for example, medical, physical, and behavioral data domains—where the data is composed of known signal sources.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Autism Tsunami: the Impact of Rising Prevalence on the Societal Cost of Autism in the United States
Authors: Blaxill Mark , Rogers Toby , Nevison Cynthia
Published: July 2021

The cost of ASD in the U.S. is estimated using a forecast model that for the first time accounts for the true historical increase in ASD. Model inputs include ASD prevalence, census population projections, six cost categories, ten age brackets, inflation projections, and three future prevalence scenarios. Future ASD costs increase dramatically: total base-case costs of $223 (175–271) billion/year are estimated in 2020; $589 billion/year in 2030, $1.36 trillion/year in 2040, and $5.54 (4.29–6.78) trillion/year by 2060, with substantial potential savings through ASD prevention. Rising prevalence, the shift from child to adult-dominated costs, the transfer of costs from parents onto government, and the soaring total costs raise pressing policy questions and demand an urgent focus on prevention strategies.
Holocene paleoenvironmental change inferred from two sediment cores collected in the Tibetan lake Taro Co
Authors: Laug Andreas , Haberzettl Torsten , Pannes Andre , Schwarz Anja , Turner Falko , Wang Junbo , Engels Stefan , Rigterink Sonja , Börner Nicole , Ahlborn Marieke , Ju Jianting , Schwalb Antje
Published: July 2021

The Tibetan Plateau, also known as the “Water Tower of Asia” because of its function as a water storage and supply region, responds dramatically to modern climate changes. Paleoecological shifts inferred from lake sediment archives provide essential insights into past climate changes, and the processes that drove those shifts. This is especially true for studies of lakes in endorheic basins on the Tibetan Plateau, where lake level is regulated predominantly by Monsoon intensity. Such water bodies provide excellent opportunities to reconstruct past changes in humidity. Most paleolimnological investigations of lakes on the Tibetan Plateau, however, have involved the study of a single sediment core, making it difficult to discern between changes caused by local events and those caused by lake-wide or regional processes. Here we present results from a paleolimnological study of Lake Taro Co, a currently closed-basin lake in Central Tibet. We compared a sediment record from the central part of the lake to a record from the near-shore area, and present results of sedimentological and bioindicator (chironomid, diatom, pollen) analyses from both records. Results show three periods of lake-wide ecosystem change (> ca. 5250, 5250–2250 and < since about 2250 cal year BP), which reflect a continuous drying trend throughout the Middle and Late Holocene. In addition to this lake-wide trend, we identified two local events in the sediment core from the southeastern, nearshore site. These include (1) a hiatus between 12,400 and 5400 cal year BP and (2) an 1800-year period of distinct paleoenvironmental conditions (5400–3600 cal year BP). We hypothesize that both events were caused by relocation of a river in the southeast sector of the lake’s catchment. We propose that the first relocation caused an erosion event that removed sediment, thereby producing the hiatus. During the following 1800 years, the core site may have been located on the river delta, before another river relocation at 3600 cal year BP established the modern prodelta situation. Our study demonstrates the value of using multiple sediment cores from a lake, to better identify processes that control widespread versus local events.
Robust fuzzy delayed sampled-data control for nonlinear active suspension systems with varying vehicle load and frequency-domain constraint
Authors: Hu Meng-Jie , Park Ju H. , Cheng Jun
Published: July 2021

This article studies the Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy delayed sampled-data $$\mathcal {H}_\infty $$

H
∞

control problem for a class of intelligent suspension systems with varying vehicle load and frequency-domain constraint. The T-S fuzzy model is utilized to characterize the varying vehicle load. Considering the transmission delay, a robust fuzzy delayed sampled-data control mechanism is newly propounded for suspension systems. According to the Lyapunov stability theory, a useful theorem is proposed based on the Wirtinger inequality to guarantee the states of the active suspension system being asymptotically stabilized with the required $$\mathcal {H}_\infty $$

H
∞

performance by the proposed controller. Moreover, the suspension constrained requirements are also satisfied within the finite frequency domain. Finally, simulation examples are presented to attest to the usefulness and superiority of the proposed controller.
Neurodevelopmental disorders in youth justice: a systematic review of screening, assessment and interventions
Authors: Holland Lorelle , Reid Natasha , Smirnov Andrew
Published: July 2021

Objectives

This study aims to systematically review screening and assessment approaches and therapeutic interventions for young people with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in the youth justice system (YJS).

Method

Five databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science and PsycINFO) for studies evaluating effectiveness of screening, assessment or interventions, targeting people aged 10–18 years in youth justice with a NDD.

Results

Eighteen peer-reviewed articles (9 screening/assessment; 9 intervention studies) were eligible. More comprehensive assessment appeared to be superior to brief screening for identifying NDDs. Interventions addressed social and emotional wellbeing, educational, employment, language and communication and behavioural outcomes, community engagement, quality of life factors and recidivism. Limited consideration was given to cultural diversity in evaluations of screening, assessment or interventions.

Conclusions

The limited amount of evidence retrieved suggests further research is urgently needed in the provision of culturally competent and holistic screening, assessment and treatment for young people with NDDs in the YJS.
Risk Imposition and Liability to Defensive Harm
Authors: Frowe Helen
Published: July 2021

According to Jonathan Quong’s moral status account of liability to defensive harm, an agent is liable to defensive harm only when she mistakenly treats others as if their moral status is diminished (for example, as if they lack a right that they in fact possess). Quong argues that, by the lights of the moral status account, a conscientious driver (Driver) who faultlessly threatens to kill Pedestrian is not liable to defensive harm. Quong argues that Driver’s action is evidence-relative permissible, despite the risks it imposes, because the general practice of prudent driving is permissible. The practice is permissible because (a) its risks do not disproportionately fall on some groups rather than others, (b) the threatened harms are incidental, and (c) the risk that driving imposes is acceptable in light of the benefits everyone derives from driving. Because the correct moral theory tells us that prudent driving is permissible, Pedestrian lacks a right that Driver refrain from driving. Hence, Driver does not, by driving, treat Pedestrian as lacking a right that Pedestrian in fact possesses. Driver is not liable to defensive force. I argue, against Quong, that cost–benefit analyses of types of risky activity cannot justify individual tokens of risk imposition. Actions that risk incidentally harming others must be justified by the prospective benefits of that token action. Hence, Driver’s imposition of risk on Pedestrian cannot be justified by the benefits of the general practice of driving. I argue that the permissibility of Driver’s imposing risk on Pedestrian via prudent driving turns on whether Driver is willing to internalise at least the foreseeable costs of that risky action. One can lack a right that a person refrain from performing a risky action whilst possessing a right not to be harmed by that risky action. Even if Pedestrian cannot reasonably demand that Driver refrain from driving, she can reasonably demand that Driver refrain from forcing her to bear the costs of his driving.
Intimate atomic Cu-Ag interfaces for high CO2RR selectivity towards CH4 at low over potential
Authors: Choi Chungseok , Cai Jin , Lee Changsoo , Lee Hyuck Mo , Xu Mingjie , Huang Yu
Published: July 2021

Developing highly efficient electrochemical catalysts for carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) provides a solution to battle global warming issues resulting from ever-increasing carbon footprint due to human activities. Copper (Cu) is known for its efficiency in CO2RR towards value-added hydrocarbons; hence its unique structural properties along with various Cu alloys have been extensively explored in the past decade. Here, we demonstrate a two-step approach to achieve intimate atomic Cu-Ag interfaces on the surface of Cu nanowires, which show greatly improved CO2RR selectivity towards methane (CH4). The specially designed Cu-Ag interfaces showed an impressive maximum Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 72% towards CH4production at −1.17 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)).
The effect of support on RhFe/Al2O3 for ethanol synthesis via CO hydrogenation
Authors: Li Fang , Qian Weixing
Published: July 2021

Different alumina samples prepared with sol–gel, chemical precipitation and hydrothermal synthesis were used as supports of Fe-promoted Rh-based catalysts for ethanol synthesis via CO hydrogenation. The samples were characterized by means of N2-adsorpotion, XRD, H2-TPR, XPS, STEM, H2-TPD, DRIFTS, H2 and CO chemisorption. The results indicated that the Al2O3 prepared by hydrothermal synthesis exhibited nano-fiber morphology and constituted of mixed crystal phases, while Al2O3 prepared by sol–gel and chemical precipitation shows no changes of morphology and crystal phases compared with the commercial Al2O3. In addition, nano-fiber Al2O3-supported Rh-based catalyst shows higher ethanol selectivity, which is ascribed to the lower metal–support interaction, higher dispersion and stronger CO insertion ability.
Progress and challenges towards additive manufacturing of SiC ceramic
Authors: He Rujie , Zhou Niping , Zhang Keqiang , Zhang Xueqin , Zhang Lu , Wang Wenqing , Fang Daining
Published: July 2021

Silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic and related materials are widely used in various military and engineering fields. The emergence of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies provides a new approach for the fabrication of SiC ceramic products. This article systematically reviews the additive manufacturing technologies of SiC ceramic developed in recent years, including Indirect Additive Manufacturing (Indirect AM) and Direct Additive Manufacturing (Direct AM) technologies. This review also summarizes the key scientific and technological challenges for the additive manufacturing of SiC ceramic, and also forecasts its possible future opportunities. This paper aims to provide a helpful guidance for the additive manufacturing of SiC ceramic and other structural ceramics.
Generalized Dobrushin Coefficients on Banach Spaces
Authors: Bartoszek Wojciech , Beśka Marek , Florek Wiktor
Published: July 2021

The asymptotic behavior of iterates of bounded linear operators (not necessarily positive), acting on Banach spaces, is studied. Through the Dobrushin ergodicity coefficient, we generalize some ergodic theorems obtained earlier for classical Markov semigroups acting on$$L^1$$L1(or positive operators on abstract state spaces).
CoBRA: Containerized Bioinformatics Workflow for Reproducible ChIP/ATAC-Seq Analysis
Authors: Qiu Xintao , Feit Avery S. , Feiglin Ariel , Xie Yingtian , Kesten Nikolas , Taing Len , Perkins Joseph , Gu Shengqing , Li Yihao , Cejas Paloma , Zhou Ningxuan , Jeselsohn Rinath , Brown Myles , Shirley Liu X. , Long Henry W.
Published: July 2021

Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and the Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin with high-throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq) have become essential technologies to effectively measure protein–DNA interactions and chromatin accessibility. However, there is a need for a scalable and reproducible pipeline that incorporates proper normalization between samples, correction of copy number variations, and integration of new downstream analysis tools. Here we present Containerized Bioinformatics workflow for Reproducible ChIP/ATAC-seq Analysis (CoBRA), a modularized computational workflow which quantifies ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq peak regions and performs unsupervised and supervised analyses. CoBRA provides a comprehensive state-of-the-art ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq analysis pipeline that can be used by scientists with limited computational experience. This enables researchers to gain rapid insight into protein–DNA interactions and chromatin accessibility through sample clustering, differential peak calling, motif enrichment, comparison of sites to a reference database, and pathway analysis. CoBRA is publicly available online at https://bitbucket.org/cfce/cobra
Single-Cell Long Non-Coding RNA Landscape of T Cells in Human Cancer Immunity
Authors: Luo Haitao , Bu Dechao , Shao Lijuan , Li Yang , Sun Liang , Wang Ce , Wang Jing , Yang Wei , Yang Xiaofei , Dong Jun , Zhao Yi , Li Furong
Published: July 2021

The development of new biomarkers or therapeutic targets for cancer immunotherapies requires deep understanding of T cells. To date, the complete landscape and systematic characterization of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in T cells in cancer immunity are lacking. Here, by systematically analyzing full-length single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of more than 20,000 libraries of T cells across three cancer types, we provided the first comprehensive catalog and the functional repertoires of lncRNAs in human T cells. Specifically, we developed a custom pipeline for de novotranscriptome assembly and obtained a novel lncRNA catalog containing 9433 genes. This increased the number of current human lncRNA catalog by 16% and nearly doubled the number of lncRNAs expressed in T cells. We found that a portion of expressed genes in single T cells were lncRNAs which had been overlooked by the majority of previous studies. Based on metacell maps constructed by the MetaCell algorithm that partitions scRNA-seq datasets into disjointed and homogenous groups of cells (metacells), 154 signature lncRNA genes were identified. They were associated with effector, exhausted, and regulatory T cell states. Moreover, 84 of them were functionally annotated based on the co-expression networks, indicating that lncRNAs might broadly participate in the regulation of T cell functions. Our findings provide a new point of view and resource for investigating the mechanisms of T cell regulation in cancer immunity as well as for novel cancer-immune biomarker development and cancer immunotherapies
Comparative Secretome Analysis of Magnaporthe oryzae Identified Proteins Involved in Virulence and Cell Wall Integrity
Authors: Liu Ning , Qi Linlu , Huang Manna , Chen Deng , Yin Changfa , Zhang Yiying , Wang Xingbin , Yuan Guixin , Wang Rui-Jin , Yang Jun , Peng You-Liang , Lu Xunli
Published: July 2021

Plant fungal pathogens secrete numerous proteins into the apoplast at the plant–fungus contact sites to facilitate colonization. However, only a few secretory proteins were functionally characterized in Magnaporthe oryzae, the fungal pathogen causing rice blast disease worldwide. Asparagine-linked glycosylation 3 (Alg3) is an α-1,3-mannosyltransferase functioning in the N-glycan synthesis of N-glycosylated secretory proteins. Fungal pathogenicity and cell wall integrity are impaired in Δalg3 mutants, but the secreted proteins affected in Δalg3 mutants are largely unknown. In this study, we compared the secretome  s of the wild-type strain and the Δalg3 mutant and identified 51 proteins that require Alg3 for proper secretion. These proteins were predicted to be involved in metabolic processes, interspecies interactions, cell wall organization, and response to chemicals. Nine proteins were selected for further validation. We found that these proteins were localized at the apoplastic region surrounding the fungal infection hyphae. Moreover, the N-glycosylation of these proteins was significantly changed in the Δalg3 mutant, leading to the decreased protein secretion and abnormal protein localization. Furthermore, we tested the biological functions of two genes, INV1 (encoding invertase 1, a secreted invertase) and AMCase (encoding acid mammalian chinitase, a secreted chitinase). The fungal virulence was significantly reduced, and the cell wall integrity was altered in the Δinv1 and Δamcase mutant strains. Moreover, the N-glycosylation was essential for the function and secretion of AMCase. Taken together, our study provides new insight into the role of N-glycosylated secretory proteins in fungal virulence and cell wall integrity.
Mapping Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Erythroid Differentiation by Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Xin Zijuan , Zhang Wei , Gong Shangjin , Zhu Junwei , Li Yanming , Zhang Zhaojun , Fang Xiangdong
Published: July 2021

There is an imbalance between the supply and demand of functional red blood cells (RBCs) in clinical applications. This imbalance can be addressed by regenerating RBCs using several in vitro methods. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can handle the low supply of cord blood and the ethical issues in embryonic stem cell research, and provide a promising strategy to eliminate immune rejection. However, no complete single-cell level differentiation pathway exists for the iPSC-derived erythroid differentiation system. In this study, we used iPSC line BC1 to establish a RBC regeneration system. The 10X Genomics single-cell transcriptome platform was used to map the cell lineage and differentiation trajectory on day 14 of the regeneration system. We observed that iPSC differentiation was not synchronized during embryoid body (EB) culture. The cells (on day 14) mainly consisted of mesodermal and various blood cells, similar to the yolk sac hematopoiesis. We identified six cell classifications and characterized the regulatory transcription factor (TF) networks and cell–cell contacts underlying the system. iPSCs undergo two transformations during the differentiation trajectory, accompanied by the dynamic expression of cell adhesion molecules and estrogen-responsive genes. We identified erythroid cells at different stages, such as burst-forming unit erythroid (BFU-E) and orthochromatic erythroblast (ortho-E) cells, and found that the regulation of TFs (e.g., TFDP1 and FOXO3) is erythroid-stage specific. Immune erythroid cells were identified in our system. This study provides systematic theoretical guidance for optimizing the iPSC-derived erythroid differentiation system, and this system is a useful model for simulating in vivo hematopoietic development and differentiation
Impact of Androgens on Sexual Function in Women with Rectal Cancer – A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Svanström Röjvall Annika , Buchli Christian , Flöter Rådestad Angelique , Martling Anna , Segelman Josefin
Published: July 2021

Background

Women treated for rectal cancer are at risk of sexual dysfunction and impaired ovarian androgen production.

Aim

To investigate a possible association between serum levels of endogenous androgens and sexual function in women with rectal cancer.

Methods

Women diagnosed with stage I–III rectal cancer were consecutively included and prospectively followed with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire from baseline to 2 years postoperatively and blood samples for hormone analyses, baseline to 1 year. Androgens were measured with liquid chromatography−mass spectrometry and electrochemiluminescence. The associations between the 4 measured androgens (testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate) and sexual function were assessed with generalized least squares random effects regression analysis in sexually active women.

Outcomes

The primary outcome measure was the mean change observed in the FSFI total score when the serum androgen levels changed with one unit. Secondary outcomes were the corresponding mean changes in the FSFI domain scores: sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain/discomfort.

RESULTS

In the 99 participants, the median FSFI total score decreased from 21.9 (range 2.0 – 36.0) to 16.4 (3.5 – 34.5) and 11.5 (2.0 to 34.8) at 1 and 2-years follow-up. After adjustment for age, partner, psychological well-being, preoperative (chemo)radiotherapy, and surgery, total testosterone and androstenedione were significantly associated with FSFI total score (β-coefficients 3.45 (95% CI 0.92 – 5.97) and 1.39 (0.46 – 2.33) respectively). Testosterone was significantly associated with the FSFI-domains lubrication and orgasm, free testosterone with lubrication, androstenedione with all domains except desire and satisfaction, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate with none of the domains.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the first study investigating whether androgen levels are of importance for the impaired sexual function seen in women following rectal cancer treatment. The prospective design allows for repeated measures and the use of the FSFI for comparisons across studies. No laboratory data were collected at the 2-year follow-up, and the missing data could have further clarified the studied associations.

Conclusion and Clinical Implication

Testosterone and androstenedione were associated with sexual function in female rectal cancer patients. The results are of interest for future intervention studies and contribute to the understanding of sexual problems, which is an essential component of the rehabilitation process in pelvic cancer survivors.
Dispute Concerning Delimitation of the Maritime Boundary Between Mauritius and Maldives in the Indian Ocean (Mauritius/Maldives)
Authors: Gaver Craig D.
Published: July 2021

On January 28, 2021, a Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) dismissed all of the respondent's preliminary objections in Dispute Concerning Delimitation of the Maritime Boundary Between Mauritius and Maldives in the Indian Ocean (Mauritius/Maldives). The proceeding arose out of Mauritius's long-running effort to regain sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, which was originally “detached” from Mauritius in 1965 by the United Kingdom (UK). Although the Judgment will allow the case to proceed to the merits, it is significant in its own right for its engagement with several earlier legal decisions, including the arbitral award in Chagos Marine Protected Area Arbitration and the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on the Legal Consequences of the Separation of the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius in 1965, as well as UN General Assembly Resolution 73/295 affirming the Advisory Opinion. The Special Chamber stitched together a series of legal documents that, considered individually, were either non-binding or limited in scope to achieve a determination greater than the sum of its parts—one that effectively resolved the disputed sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago.
Immigrants' demand for informal and formal education: evidence from US time use data
Authors: Coniglio Nicola Daniele , Hoxhaj Rezart , Jayet Hubert
Published: July 2021

This paper contributes to the migration literature studying the time devoted to educational activities. It uses US time-diary surveys to study the allocation of time to informal as well as formal learning and educational activities by immigrants and natives. We develop a simple theoretical framework, which highlights the different constraints/opportunity costs faced by immigrants as compared with natives. Consistently with our theoretical model, the estimates show that immigrants are more likely to engage in informal and formal education and conditional on participation, they allocate more time to these activities. We find that the main drivers are economic incentives, mostly in the early phase of working life, and that the differences between natives and immigrants persist across generations. We also find that differences between immigrants and natives are generally larger in informal education than in formal education. The investment in informal and formal learning and educational activities is likely to boost immigrants' human and social capital and contribute to their socio-economic integration.
Medicine in Unplanned Mass Gatherings: A Qualitative Study of Health-Care Providers’ Response and Recommendations to Beirut’s Protests
Authors: Yassine Farah , Bou Karroum Samer , Amine Reem , Chammas Majid , Dehaini Hassan , El-Khoury Habib , Haddad Andrea , Khalifeh Joanna , Maaliki Maya , Ghandour Lilian
Published: July 2021

Objective:

This study aims at exploring the dynamics of health-care provision during recent unplanned public mass gatherings in Beirut, and how the health-care system adapts to mass movements in protests.

Methods:

A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 health-care providers who volunteered at medical tents set during protests in Beirut, Lebanon. Responses were transcribed and coded.

Results:

Three themes were noted: preparedness and logistics, encountered cases, and participants’ proposed recommendations. In terms of preparedness and logistics, participants lacked knowledge of field medicine protocols and an organizational structure. They faced difficulties in securing equipment and advertising their services. Most encountered cases were physical injuries rather than mental health problems. The participants proposed both short-term recommendations, including advice on how to boost care provided, and long-term recommendations on structuring the health-care system to be better prepared.

Conclusions:

On-site health-care provision during unplanned mass gatherings is a vital need. We recommend forming a task force of health-care workers from various fields led by the Ministry of Public Health in every respective country to plan protocols, train personnel, and secure resources beforehand.