bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameterizing standard measures of income and health inequality using choice experiments
Authors: Hardardottir Hjördis , Gerdtham Ulf‐G , Wengström Erik
Published: July 2021

When measuring inequality using conventional inequality measures, ethical assumptions about distributional preferences are often implicitly made. In this paper, we ask whether the ethical assumptions underlying the concentration index for income‐related health inequality and the Gini index for income inequality are supported in a representative sample of the Swedish population using an internet‐based survey. We find that the median subject has preferences regarding income‐related health inequality that are in line with the ethical assumptions implied by the concentration index, but put higher weight on the poor than what is implied by the Gini index of income inequality. We find that women and individuals with a poorer health status put higher weight on the poor than men and healthier individuals. Ethically flexible inequality measures, such as the s‐Gini index and the extended concentration index, imply that researchers have to choose from a toolbox of infinitely many inequality indices. The results of this paper are indicative of which indices (i.e. which parameter values) reflect the views of the population regarding how inequality should be defined.
Effect of heat source on Rayleigh–Bénard convection in rotating viscoelastic liquids
Authors: Jayalatha G. , Suma N.
Published: July 2021

The influence of heat sources on instability in rotating viscoelastic liquids is studied. Linear stability analysis is done using normal modes. Computations are done for 10 boundary combinations and the results reveal that convection manifests via the oscillatory mode in this case. The critical values of the oscillatory and stationary instability have been studied. The results indicate individual stabilizing influences of rotation and strain retardation along with heat source in the case of free isothermal boundary conditions. It has quite unpredictable influences on the system stability in all the other boundary conditions for the chosen parameters. By suitable limiting processes, results pertaining to Oldroyd liquid B will lead to those of Maxwell, Newtonian, and Rivlin–Ericksen liquids. The problem finds applications in a working media consisting of viscoelastic liquids with nonisothermal systems.
Temperature prediction of heat sources using machine learning techniques
Authors: Durgam Shankar , Bhosale Ajinkya , Bhosale Vivek , Deshpande Revati , Sutar Pankaj , Kamble Subodh
Published: July 2021

This paper explores the use of machine learning algorithms, such as XGBoost, random forest regression, support vector machine regression, and artificial neural network (ANN), which are employed for predicting temperatures of rectangular silicon heaters with dummy elements. A combination of these machine learning algorithms can predict better results over individual algorithm. Silicon heaters are equipped on an FR4 substrate board for cooling under forced convection in a horizontal channel. COMSOL Multiphysics 5.4 software is used for all the three‐dimensional numerical simulations. Heat transfer at the solid and fluid interface is studied using a module based on conjugate heat transfer and nonisothermal fluid flow. Dummy elements are coupled with heated sources to evaluate heat transfer and analyze the flow of fluid. The study is performed with 2.5 m/s velocity and a uniform heat flux of 5000 W/m2. The study is aimed at predicting and comparing results of support vector regression (SVR), ensemble learning with ANN to explore optimal configuration. Results indicate an agreement of less than 10% between the simulated and predicted temperatures. It is also found that SVR has given the best results compared with XG Boot and ANN when analyzed individually. The programming for these algorithms is performed using the Python programming language.
Catchment‐scale observations at the Niwot Ridge long‐term ecological research site
Authors: Bjarke Nels R. , Livneh Ben , Elmendorf Sarah C. , Molotch Noah P. , Hinckley Eve‐Lyn S. , Emery Nancy C. , Johnson Pieter T. J. , Morse Jennifer F. , Suding Katherine N.
Published: July 2021

The Niwot Ridge and Green Lakes Valley (NWT) long‐term ecological research (LTER) site collects environmental observations spanning both alpine and subalpine regimes. The first observations began in 1952 and have since expanded to nearly 300 available datasets over an area of 99 km2 within the north‐central Colorado Rocky Mountains that include hydrological (n = 101), biological (n = 79), biogeochemical (n = 62), and geographical (n = 56) observations. The NWT LTER database is well suited to support hydrologic investigations that require long‐term and interdisciplinary data sets. Experimentation and data collection at the NWT LTER are designed to characterize ecological responses of high‐mountain environments to changes in climate, nutrients, and water availability. In addition to the continuation of the many legacy NWT datasets, expansion of the breadth and utility of the NWT LTER database is driven by new initiatives including (a) a catchment‐scale sensor network of soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and snow‐depth observations to understand hydrologic connectivity and (b) snow‐albedo alteration experiments using black sand to evaluate the effects of snow‐disappearance on ecosystems. Together, these observational and experimental datasets provide a substantial foundation for hydrologic studies seeking to understand and predict changes to catchment and local‐scale process interactions.
Father–newborn vocal interaction: A contribution to the theory of innate intersubjectivity
Authors: Boiteau Caroline , Kokkinaki Theano , Sankey Carol , Buil Aude , Gratier Maya , Devouche Emmanuel
Published: July 2021

We studied the timing of the spontaneous vocalization that occurs in dyadic interactions of fathers and their neonates. We recorded 21 fathers speaking to their 2 to 4‐day‐old newborns at the maternity ward and accurately coded all beginnings and endings of paternal and neonatal vocalization, using sound visualization software. Temporal relations between successive and overlapping newborn and father vocalizations were analysed. Results strongly suggest that newborn infants' vocalization timing is related to the timing of fathers' speech and that both newborns and fathers respond to each other within a 1–3 s temporal window, giving rise to sequences of turn‐taking. This study not only shows newborns' awareness of the timing of their partner's expressions but also fathers' readiness to communicate with them right from birth. We discuss the relevance of these findings to the theory of innate intersubjectivity.
Experiences with intestinal failure from an intestinal rehabilitation unit in a country without home parenteral nutrition
Authors: Nikoupour Hamed , Arasteh Peyman , Shamsaeefar Alireza , Ghanbari Fardin , Boorboor Arash , Almayali Ali Mosa Jafar , Shafiekhani Mojtaba , Samidoust Pirouz , Shahriarirad Reza , Shojazadeh Alireza , Ranjbar Keivan , Darabi Mohammad Hasan , Tangestanipour Sina , Hosseini Seyed Morteza , Zahiri Leila , Nikeghbalian Saman
Published: July 2021

Objective

For the first time, we reported experiences with an intestinal rehabilitation unit (IRU) from a country without home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

Methods

We included patients with a diagnosis of intestinal failure (IF) since the establishment of our IRU from February 2018 to February 2020. We further report on our protocols for management of enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs), short‐bowel syndrome (SBS), chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction and motility disorders.

Results

Among a total of 349 patients who have been admitted, 100 patients had IF and were included . Mean (SD) age of patients was 46.3 ± 16.1 years. Most common cause of IF was ECFs (32%), SBS (24%), and SBS + fistula (22%). Most common causes of SBS were mesenteric ischemia (63.3%) and repeated surgery (22.4%). Median (interquartile range [IQR]) duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) for patients was 32 (18–60) days. The most common reconstructive surgery performed was resection and anastomosis (75.4%), followed by serial transverse enteroplasty procedure (10.5%) and closure of ostoma (7%). Patients were hospitalized for a median (IQR) of 33 (17.5–61) days. Most common complications were sepsis (45%), catheter infections (43%), and catheter thrombosis (20%), respectively. At the final follow‐up, 61% stopped receiving PN, 23% became candidates for transplantation, and 16% died.

Conclusion

Considering that most countries lack facilities for HPN, by establishing IRUs using specific treatment protocols and autologous gastrointestinal reconstruction techniques will provide a means to manage patients with IF, thus decreasing death rates and number of patients who require intestinal transplantations due to IF.
Unlocking the potential plant growth‐promoting properties of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seed endophytes bio‐inoculants for improving soil health and crop production
Authors: Mukherjee Arpan , Gaurav Anand Kumar , Patel Amit Kumar , Singh Saurabh , Chouhan Gowardhan Kumar , Lepcha Ayush , Pereira Arthur Prudêncio de A. , Verma Jay Prakash
Published: July 2021

Sustainable agronomic practices are tried all over the world to promote safe and eco‐friendly crop production. Therefore, in the present study, the effect of seed endophytic bacteria and its consortium on soil biochemical property and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under field and pot conditions are investigated. Both the experimental results proved a significant increase in total soil organic carbon (OC), electric conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), and soil nutrients like available N, P, and K content and important soil enzymes like dehydrogenase (DHA), beta glucosidase, alkaline phosphate, urease, and microbial population in soil was observed under the Enterobacter hormaechei BHUJPCS‐15 (T1), Enterobacter cloacae BHUJPCS‐21 (T2), and combined T3 (consortium of T1 and T2) treatments. Similarly, a significant increase in the grain yield (27–45% and 57–73%) in microbial treatment was found in pot and field experiments, respectively, than in control. In addition, whereas the higher plant biomass (14–38% and 42–78%) was recorded in treated plant over the control plant. Similarly, the plant photosynthetic pigments (Chl a, b, total Chl) were increased in microbial treated plant than the control untreated chickpea plant. Consortium of endophytes were recorded effective result for enhancing plant growth attributes, productivity, and soil health. The consortium can be further used as biofertilizers for sustainable chickpea production. Our present study highlights the significance of sustainable agronomic practices for improving the soil quality and agricultural yield while reducing adverse impacts of chemicals by the use of seed endophytic microbes and its consortium.
Associations of genetically predicted circulating insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3 with bladder cancer risk
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Wen , Chang Wen‐Shin , Xu Yifan , Huang Maosheng , Bau Da‐Tian , Gu Jian
Published: July 2021

Insulin‐like growth factors (IGF) play important roles in carcinogenesis. The associations of circulating IGF‐1 and insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3) with the risks of bladder cancer remain unclear. In this large case control study of 2011 bladder cancer cases and 2369 heathy controls, we assessed the associations of circulating IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 with bladder cancer risks using a Mendelian randomization approach, which uses genetic variants as instruments to study causal relationship between risk factors and diseases. We first constructed a weighted genetic risk score (GRS) predictive of circulating IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 using 413 genome‐wide association study‐identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with IGF‐1 and four SNPs with IGFBP‐3, respectively. We found that higher GRS for IGF‐1 was associated with a significantly reduced bladder cancer risk (odds ratio [OR] = 0.66 per SD increase, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54–0.82, p < 0.001). We then used a summary statistics‐based MR method, inverse‐variance weighting (IVW), and found a similar risk estimate (OR = 0.67 per SD increase, 95% CI = 0.54–0.83, p < 0.001). When we categorized individuals into high and low IGF‐1 groups using the median GRS value in the controls, the high GRS group had a 21% reduced bladder cancer risk (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.70–0.89) compared to the low GRS group. Genetically predicted circulating IGFBP‐3 was not associated with bladder cancer risk. In conclusion, our data demonstrated for the first time a strong inverse relationship between circulating IGF‐1 level and bladder cancer risk.
Necessity or opportunity: A case of business venturing decision during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Vazirani Ashish , Bhattacharjee Titas
Published: July 2021

This study measures an individual's evaluation of the situation of COVID‐19 and the result of such an evaluation on their business venturing decision. We have considered a three‐step model of exposure–evaluation–action using partial least squares (PLS)‐based structural equation modeling with a sample of 497 working‐class members and small business owners. Unlike previous researches on “economic uncertainty,” our results show that the systemic economic uncertainty during COVID‐19 inhibited business venturing. This was caused by the negative opportunity cost due to higher sustenance costs during the pandemic. We further found that “entrepreneurial intent” independently did not lead to business venturing, but the act of venturing depended on the recognition of opportunity.
Click preparation and mechanism on amphiphilic oleophobic/hydrophilic behavior of fluorinated diblock copolymers
Authors: Liu Huan , Li Xingjian , Deng Jinni , Pan Yi , Zheng Zhaohui
Published: July 2021

In this article, amphiphilic fluorinated diblock copolymers of poly(perfluorohexylethyl acrylate)‐block‐allylpolyethyleneglycol (PF6A‐b‐APEG1200) are synthesized by reversible addition‐fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization and sequential thiol‐ene click reaction. The molecular structure is characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectra and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. Morphology and particle size of resultant copolymer micelles in aqueous solution are analyzed by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The wettability and relative element contents of PF6A‐b‐APEG1200 coatings are investigated with contact angle (CA) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). When PF6A‐b‐APEG1200 coating is stimulated by water, the fluorine content at the top fluoropolymer‐air interface decreases and the water contact angle of the surface decreases over time, showing the hydrophilicity. While stimulated by n‐hexadecane, the fluorine content of the film surface increases, showing the oleophobicity with a stable apparent oil contact angle of 72 ± 1°. According to the detailed analysis of XPS results, the stimuli‐responsive behavior of the amphiphilic polymers can be ascribed to the migration and rearrangement of the two blocks in PF6A‐b‐APEG1200, which might probably be one of the universally accepted oleophobic/hydrophilic mechanisms.
Treating early‐stage Hodgkin lymphoma in resource‐limited settings: InPOG‐HL‐15‐01 experience
Authors: Mahajan Amita , Singh Manisha , Bakhshi Sameer , Jain Sandeep , Radhakrishnan Venkatraman , Verma Nishant , Seth Rachna , Arora Ramandeep Singh , Dinand Veronique , Kalra Manas , Mandal Piali , Kapoor Gauri , Sajid Mohammad , Thulkar Sanjay , Arora Ashima , Taluja Ankit , Chandra Jagdish
Published: July 2021

Background

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) in childhood is an eminently curable disease. Excellent outcomes can be achieved even in resource‐limited settings and increasingly, the focus is on limiting long‐term toxicity. Contemporary treatment incorporates a risk‐stratified, response‐adapted approach using multiagent chemotherapy with or without low‐dose radiotherapy (RT). Many developing countries continue to use ABVD (adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastin, and dacarbazine)‐based regimen owing to limited acute toxicity, cost, and ease of delivery. We report outcomes of children with early‐stage HL using limited cycles of ABVD‐based treatment in the first prospective multicentric collaborative study from India InPOG‐HL‐15‐01.

Methods

Children <18 years with biopsy‐proven HL were enrolled. Patients with stages I and IIA with or without bulky disease were classified as having early‐stage disease. Patients were planned to receive four cycles of ABVD subject to satisfactory early response assessment (ERA) scheduled after two cycles of chemotherapy. RT was limited to patients with bulky disease or those with suboptimal ERA.

Results

Four hundred ten patients were enrolled over 30 months from 27 centers. One hundred thirty‐four were classified as having early‐stage disease. Fifty‐three (40%) of these had bulky disease. One hundred ten (83%) of this cohort achieved complete or very good partial ERA. Fifty‐four (40%) received RT. At a median of 52 months since diagnosis, 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) is 94% and 95.5%, respectively. Treatment‐related mortality and abandonment were <1%.

Conclusion

Limited cycles of ABVD with RT to selected patients is a very effective option for patients with early‐stage disease in resource‐limited settings.
How do spouses of cancer survivors engage with mental healthcare? An exploratory analysis of visit characteristics
Authors: Litzelman Kristin , Choi Hyojin , Maher Molly , Harnish Autumn
Published: July 2021

Objective

To better understand how cancer caregivers engage with mental healthcare, this exploratory study sought to assess the distribution and correlates of visit characteristics for mental health‐related medical care among spouses of cancer survivors.

Methods

Using nationally representative data from the Medical Expenditures Panel Survey, we assessed the proportion of caregivers who received a mental health‐related prescription or psychotherapy visit across care settings (office based, outpatient hospital, emergency room, or inpatient visit), provider type (psychiatric, primary care, other specialty, or other), and visit purpose (regular checkup, diagnosis and treatment, follow‐up, psychotherapy, other), and the health condition(s) associated with the visit. Logistic and multinomial regressions assessed the predisposing, enabling, need, and survivor characteristics associated with the visit characteristics.

Results

A plurality of spouses of cancer survivors accessed mental healthcare through an office‐based visit (90%) with a primary care provider (47%). One third accessed treatment as part of a regular check‐up (32%). Several factors were associated with visit characteristics, notably the cancer survivor's health status and healthcare utilization.

Conclusions

The findings provide an important reminder of the often‐invisible mental health burden experienced by cancer caregivers and confirm the importance of routine primary care as a doorway to mental healthcare. Assessing how the care recipient's care needs and caregiving itself may act as barriers to specialty care will be a critical future research trajectory.
Cytokine storm syndrome in a young patient with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Daccò Valeria , Rosazza Chiara , Malfitano Anna , Sciarrabba Calogero S. , Minoia Francesca , Filocamo Giovanni , Colombo Carla
Published: July 2021

We report the case of a patient with cystic fibrosis (CF) presenting with a full‐blown cytokine storm syndrome probably triggered by infection. This condition is rare and the diagnosis can be particularly difficult in patients with a complex chronic disease such as CF. However, timely recognition and appropriate treatment in the early stages are key to avoiding a potentially fatal course.
Population pharmacokinetics of favipiravir in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Irie Kei , Nakagawa Atsushi , Fujita Hirotoshi , Tamura Ryo , Eto Masaaki , Ikesue Hiroaki , Muroi Nobuyuki , Fukushima Shoji , Tomii Keisuke , Hashida Tohru
Published: July 2021

The antiretroviral drug favipiravir (FPV) inhibits RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase. It has been developed for the treatment of the novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). However, its pharmacokinetics in patients with COVID‐19 is poorly understood. In this study, we measured FPV serum concentration by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and conducted population pharmacokinetic analysis. A total of 39 patients were enrolled in the study: 33 were administered FPV 1600 mg twice daily (b.i.d.) on the first day followed by 600 mg b.i.d., and 6 were administered FPV 1800 mg b.i.d. on the first day followed by 800 mg or 600 mg b.i.d. The median age was 68 years (range, 27–89 years), 31 (79.5%) patients were men, median body surface area (BSA) was 1.72 m2 (range, 1.11–2.2 m2), and 10 (25.6%) patients required invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) at the start of FPV. A total of 204 serum concentrations were available for pharmacokinetic analysis. A one‐compartment model with first‐order elimination was used to describe the pharmacokinetics. The estimated mean clearance/bioavailability (CL/F) and distribution volume/bioavailability (V/F) were 5.11 L/h and 41.6 L, respectively. Covariate analysis revealed that CL/F was significantly related to dosage, IMV use, and BSA. A simulation study showed that the 1600 mg/600 mg b.i.d. regimen was insufficient for the treatment of COVID‐19 targeting the 50% effective concentration (9.7 µg/mL), especially in patients with larger BSA and/or IMV. A higher FPV dosage is required for COVID‐19, but dose‐dependent nonlinear pharmacokinetics may cause an unexpected significant pharmacokinetic change and drug toxicity. Further studies are warranted to explore the optimal FPV regimen.
Conditions for stabilizability of time‐delay systems with real‐rooted plant
Authors: Balogh Tamas , Boussaada Islam , Insperger Tamas , Niculescu Silviu‐Iulian
Published: July 2021

In this article we consider the ‐stabilization of nth‐order linear time‐invariant dynamical systems using multiplicity‐induced‐dominancy‐based controller design in the presence of delays in the input or the output channels. A sufficient condition is given for the dominancy of a real root with multiplicity at least and at least n using an integral factorization of the corresponding characteristic function. A necessary condition for ‐stabilizability is analyzed utilizing the property that the derivative of a ‐stable quasipolynomial is also ‐stable under certain conditions. Sufficient and necessary conditions are given for systems with real‐rooted open‐loop characteristic function: the delay intervals are determined where the conditions for dominancy and ‐stabilizability are satisfied. The efficiency of the proposed controller design is shown in the case of a multilink inverted pendulum.
Human Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) Cell Therapy Ameliorates Cardiac, Respiratory, and Skeletal Muscle's Function in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Siemionow Maria , Langa Paulina , Harasymczuk Michal , Cwykiel Joanna , Sielewicz Magdalena , Smieszek Jaroslaw , Heydemann Ahlke
Published: July 2021

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive and lethal disease, caused by X-linked mutations of the dystrophin encoding gene. The lack of dystrophin leads to muscle weakness, degeneration, fibrosis, and progressive loss of skeletal, cardiac, and respiratory muscle function resulting in premature death due to the cardiac and respiratory failure. There is no cure for DMD and current therapies neither cure nor arrest disease progression. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new approaches and safer therapies for DMD patients. We have previously reported functional improvements which correlated with increased dystrophin expression following transplantation of dystrophin expressing chimeric (DEC) cells of myoblast origin to the mdx mouse models of DMD. In this study, we demonstrated that systemic-intraosseous transplantation of DEC human cells derived from myoblasts of normal and DMD-affected donors, increased dystrophin expression in cardiac, respiratory, and skeletal muscles of the mdx/scid mouse model of DMD. DEC transplant correlated with preservation of ejection fraction and fractional shortening on echocardiography, improved respiratory function on plethysmography, and improved strength and function of the limb skeletal muscles. Enhanced function was associated with improved muscle histopathology, revealing reduced mdx pathology, fibrosis, decreased inflammation, and preserved muscle morphology and architecture. Our findings confirm that DECs generate a systemic protective effect in DMD-affected target organs. Therefore, DECs represents a novel therapeutic approach with the potential to preserve or enhance multiorgan function of the skeletal, cardiac, and respiratory muscles critical for the well-being of DMD patients.
Fiber bridging in polypropylene‐reinforced high‐strength concrete: An experimental and numerical survey
Authors: Khaloo Alireza , Daneshyar Alireza , Rezaei Benyamin , Fartash Ali
Published: July 2021

Fracture process of fiber‐reinforced concrete notched beams is investigated here. Polypropylene macrosynthetic fibers are utilized for reinforcing concrete specimens, and a high‐strength mix design is used to produce strong bonds between the embossed polypropylene fibers and the cementitious matrix of beams. Considering different locations for the notch, this study focuses on bridging mechanism under different conditions using both experimental and numerical approaches. First mode of fracture occurs due to opening of crack faces. This mode of failure is simulated by imposing symmetric boundary conditions on middle‐notched beams. Inducing the notch with an offset from the middle, mixed‐mode condition is achieved, wherein a combination of opening and sliding of crack surfaces occurs. Plain and reinforced concretes are used to cast each setup of test in order to analyze the bridging effects in different cases. Nonlinear behavior of the cementitious matrix is reproduced numerically using a continuum damage model, and instead of the common phenomenological representation of fibers (e.g., via cohesive crack method), fibers are explicitly modeled in direct numerical simulations. Once the nonlinear response of fibers is obtained, the method can provide valid responses in general loading conditions. This feature distinguishes the proposed approach from the cohesive crack method, wherein the contribution of opening mode, shearing mode, and even tearing mode in three‐dimensional cases are required for simulating a general mixed‐mode test. Different distributions with random locations and random orientations of fibers are generated in order to assure the objectivity of results. It is found that the prevailing dissipative mechanism within the reinforced specimens is resulted by the sliding resistance of fiber–matrix interfaces. In addition, owing to the high tensile strength of polypropylene fibers, instead of sudden cracking due to fiber rupture, ductile post‐peak responses with tremendous amount of energy dissipation are obtained. Low elastic modulus of polypropylene fibers, on the other hand, leads to negligible change in pre‐peak responses as the fibers are added to the mixtures.
Generative Models for Relief Perspective Architectures
Authors: Baglioni Leonardo , Fallavollita Federico
Published: July 2021

The present essay investigates the potential of generative representation applied to the study of relief perspective architectures realized in Italy between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. In arts, and architecture in particular, relief perspective is a three-dimensional structure able to create the illusion of great depths in small spaces. A method of investigation applied to the case study of the Avila Chapel in Santa Maria in Trastevere in Rome (Antonio Gherardi 1678) is proposed. The research methodology can be extended to other cases and is based on the use of a Relief Perspective Camera, which can create both a linear perspective and a relief perspective. Experimenting mechanically and automatically the perspective transformations from the affine space to the illusory space and vice versa has allowed us to see the case study in a different light.
ZBED6 counteracts high-fat diet-induced glucose intolerance by maintaining beta cell area and reducing excess mitochondrial activation
Authors: Wang Xuan , Younis Shady , Cen Jing , Wang Yun , Krizhanovskii Camilla , Andersson Leif , Welsh Nils
Published: July 2021

Aims/hypothesis

ZBED6 (zinc finger, BED-type containing 6) is known to regulate muscle mass by suppression of Igf2 gene transcription. In insulin-producing cell lines, ZBED6 maintains proliferative capacity at the expense of differentiation and beta cell function. The aim was to study the impact of Zbed6 knockout on beta cell function and glucose tolerance in C57BL/6 mice.

Methods

Beta cell area and proliferation were determined in Zbed6 knockout mice using immunohistochemical analysis. Muscle and fat distribution were assessed using micro-computed tomography. Islet gene expression was assessed by RNA sequencing. Effects of a high-fat diet were analysed by glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests. ZBED6 was overexpressed in EndoC-βH1 cells and human islet cells using an adenoviral vector. Beta cell cell-cycle analysis, insulin release and mitochondrial function were studied in vitro using propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry, ELISA, the Seahorse technique, and the fluorescent probes JC-1 and MitoSox.

Results

Islets from Zbed6 knockout mice showed lowered expression of the cell cycle gene Pttg1, decreased beta cell proliferation and decreased beta cell area, which occurred independently from ZBED6 effects on Igf2 gene expression. Zbed6 knockout mice, but not wild-type mice, developed glucose intolerance when given a high-fat diet. The high-fat diet Zbed6 knockout islets displayed upregulated expression of oxidative phosphorylation genes and genes associated with beta cell differentiation. In vitro, ZBED6 overexpression resulted in increased EndoC-βH1 cell proliferation and a reduced glucose-stimulated insulin release in human islets. ZBED6 also reduced mitochondrial JC-1 J-aggregate formation, mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates (OCR) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, both at basal and palmitate + high glucose-stimulated conditions. ZBED6-induced inhibition of OCR was not rescued by IGF2 addition. ZBED6 reduced levels of the mitochondrial regulator PPAR-γ related coactivator 1 protein (PRC) and bound its promoter/enhancer region. Knockdown of PRC resulted in a lowered OCR.

Conclusions/interpretation

It is concluded that ZBED6 is required for normal beta cell replication and also limits excessive beta cell mitochondrial activation in response to an increased functional demand. ZBED6 may act, at least in part, by restricting PRC-mediated mitochondrial activation/ROS production, which may lead to protection against beta cell dysfunction and glucose intolerance in vivo.

Graphical abstract
Phase-Field Approximation of Functionals Defined on Piecewise-Rigid Maps
Authors: Cicalese Marco , Focardi Matteo , Zeppieri Caterina Ida
Published: July 2021

We provide a variational approximation of Ambrosio–Tortorelli type for brittle fracture energies of piecewise-rigid solids. Our result covers both the case of geometrically nonlinear elasticity and that of linearised elasticity.
Age-Related miRNA-Mediated Regulatory Networks Orchestrating Chronological Development of Meristems in Larix Kaempferi
Authors: Li Wan-Feng , Qi Li-Wang , Yang Wen-Hua
Published: July 2021

Plant growth and development is usually characterized by chronological age over the plants’ lifetimes. Age-related changes actually originate with meristems because they control if, where, when, and how new tissues are formed along the axis of the shoot. The “time-keeping” of plant meristem development is a complex process. To uncover the post-transcriptional regulation underlying the chronological development of Larix kaempferi (Japanese larch) meristems, we investigated the miRNA-mediated regulatory network in the defoliated, uppermost main stems of 1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-, and 50-year-old L. kaempferi using RNA-seq methods. We identified 29 high-confidence miRNAs, three of which were defined, age-related miRNAs whose expression changed depending on L. kaempferi age, and 17 showed coordinated expression patterns with three age-related miRNAs based on hierarchical correlations. All hierarchically coordinated miRNAs and their targets constituted a miRNA-mediated regulatory network. The developmental timing pathway lka-miR-1-5p-156-SBP/SPL (Squamosa Promoter Binding Protein-Like), the lignin biosynthesis pathway lka-miR-7,13-5p-397-LAC (Laccase), and an unknown pathway lka-miR-3-5p-CMSS1 (Cms1 Ribosomal Small Subunit Homolog) were age-driven, and information from auxin and light could be integrated by the lka-miR-9-5p-390-TAS/ARF (Trans-Acting siRNA3/Auxin Response Factor) and lka-miR-8-5p-IRL4 (Plant Intracellular Ras-Group-Related LRR Protein 4) pathways, respectively. Age-driven regulatory network will lead the way to understand which and how genes mutually cross-regulate their activity orchestrating development of meristems of L. kaempferi with age. We also discussed and contributed to miRNA annotation and nomenclature.
The clinical and prognostic value of late Gadolinium enhancement imaging in heart failure with mid-range and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: van Woerden Gijs , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Gorter Thomas M. , Willems Tineke P. , van Empel Vanessa P. M. , Peters Aniek , Pundziute Gabija , op den Akker Jeroen W. , Rienstra Michiel , Westenbrink B. Daan
Published: July 2021

Heart failure (HF) with mid-range or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF; HFpEF) is a heterogeneous disorder that could benefit from strategies to identify subpopulations at increased risk. We tested the hypothesis that HFmrEF and HFpEF patients with myocardial scars detected with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) are at increased risk for all-cause mortality. Symptomatic HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 40%, who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging were included. The presence of myocardial LGE lesions was visually assessed. T1 mapping was performed to calculate extracellular volume (ECV). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine associations between clinical characteristics and LGE. Cox regression analyses were used to assess the association between LGE and all-cause mortality. A total of 110 consecutive patients were included (mean age 71 ± 10 years, 49% women, median N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) 1259 pg/ml). LGE lesions were detected in 37 (34%) patients. Previous myocardial infarction and increased LV mass index were strong and independent predictors for the presence of LGE (odds ratio 6.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.07–19.31, p = 0.001 and 1.68 (1.03–2.73), p = 0.04, respectively). ECV was increased in patients with LGE lesions compared to those without (28.6 vs. 26.6%, p = 0.04). The presence of LGE lesions was associated with a fivefold increase in the incidence of all-cause mortality (hazards ratio 5.3, CI 1.5–18.1, p = 0.009), independent of age, sex, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, NT-proBNP, LGE mass and LVEF. Myocardial scarring on CMR is associated with increased mortality in HF patients with LVEF > 40% and may aid in selecting a subpopulation at increased risk.
Pacific contribution to decadal surface temperature trends in the Arctic during the twentieth century
Authors: Svendsen Lea , Keenlyside Noel , Muilwijk Morven , Bethke Ingo , Omrani Nour-Eddine , Gao Yongqi
Published: July 2021

Instrumental records suggest multidecadal variability in Arctic surface temperature throughout the twentieth century. This variability is caused by a combination of external forcing and internal variability, but their relative importance remains unclear. Since the early twentieth century Arctic warming has been linked to decadal variability in the Pacific, we hypothesize that the Pacific could impact decadal temperature trends in the Arctic throughout the twentieth century. To investigate this, we compare two ensembles of historical all-forcing twentieth century simulations with the Norwegian Earth System Model (NorESM): (1) a fully coupled ensemble and (2) an ensemble where momentum flux anomalies from reanalysis are prescribed over the Indo-Pacific Ocean to constrain Pacific sea surface temperature variability. We find that the combined effect of tropical and extratropical Pacific decadal variability can explain up to ~ 50% of the observed decadal surface temperature trends in the Arctic. The Pacific-Arctic connection involves both lower tropospheric horizontal advection and subsidence-induced adiabatic heating, mediated by Aleutian Low variations. This link is detected across the twentieth century, but the response in Arctic surface temperature is moderated by external forcing and surface feedbacks. Our results also indicate that increased ocean heat transport from the Atlantic to the Arctic could have compensated for the impact of a cooling Pacific at the turn of the twenty-first century. These results have implications for understanding the present Arctic warming and future climate variations.
Bjerknes compensation in a coupled global box model
Authors: Shi Jiaqi , Yang Haijun
Published: July 2021

The Earth climate system has an intrinsic mechanism to maintain its energy conservation by impelling opposite changes in meridional ocean and atmosphere heat transports. This mechanism is briefed as the Bjerknes compensation (BJC). We set up a global coupled two-hemisphere box model in this study, and obtain an analytical solution to the BJC of this system. In the two-hemisphere model, the thermohaline circulation is interhemispheric and parameterized by the density difference between two polar boxes. The symmetric poleward atmosphere heat and moisture transports are considered and parameterized by the temperature gradient between tropical and polar boxes. Different from the BJC in the one-hemisphere box model that depends only on the local climate feedback, the BJC here is determined by both local climate feedback and temperature change. The asymmetric thermohaline circulation leads to a better BJC in the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere. Furthermore, an analytical solution to the probability of a valid BJC (i.e., negative BJC) is derived, which is determined only by the local climate feedback. The probability of a valid BJC is very high under reasonable climate feedback. Based on observational data, the climate feedback can be estimated and the BJC in real world can be calculated using the analytical formulae. It is found that at the decadal and longer timescales the BJC for both hemispheres are robust in reality.
Chronic rhinosinusitis in cystic fibrosis: a review of therapeutic options
Authors: Krajewska Joanna , Zub Krzysztof , Słowikowski Adam , Zatoński Tomasz
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is observed in almost 100% of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). CF-related CRS treatment is extremely challenging because of the underlying genetic defect leading to its development. CRS in CF is often refractory to standard therapy, while recurrences after surgical treatment are inevitable in the majority of patients. This study provides a precise review of the current knowledge regarding possible therapeutic options for CF-related CRS.

Methods

The Medline and Web of Science databases were searched without a time limit using the terms “cystic fibrosis” in conjunction with “otorhinolaryngological manifestation”, “rhinology” and “sinusitis”.

Results

Precise guidelines for CF-induced CRS therapy are lacking due to the lack of large cohort randomized controlled trials. None of the existing therapeutic agents has already been recommended for CRS in CF. Therapy targeting the underlying genetic defect, intranasal dornase alfa administration, and topical delivery of colistin and tobramycin showed promising results in CF-related CRS therapy. Besides the potential effectiveness of nasal steroids, strong recommendations for their usage in CF have not been provided yet. Systemic corticosteroid usage is controversial due to its potential negative influence on pulmonary disease. Ibuprofen revealed some positive effects on CF-related CRS in molecular and small cohort studies. Intranasal irrigation with saline solutions could relieve sinonasal symptoms. Nasal decongestants are not recommended. Endoscopic sinus surgery is the first-line surgical option for refractory CRS. Extensive surgical approaches should be considered as they could improve long-term outcomes in CRS.

Conclusion

Further studies are warranted to establish consensus for CF-related CRS therapy.
Driving forces on dislocations: finite element analysis in the context of the non-singular dislocation theory
Authors: Zhou Xiandong , Reimuth Christoph , Stein Peter , Xu Bai-Xiang
Published: July 2021

This work presents a regularized eigenstrain formulation around the slip plane of dislocations and the resultant non-singular solutions for various dislocation configurations. Moreover, we derive the generalized Eshelby stress tensor of the configurational force theory in the context of the proposed dislocation model. Based on the non-singular finite element solutions and the generalized configurational force formulation, we calculate the driving force on dislocations of various configurations, including single edge/screw dislocation, dislocation loop, interaction between a vacancy dislocation loop and an edge dislocation, as well as a dislocation cluster. The non-singular solutions and the driving force results are well benchmarked for different cases. The proposed formulation and the numerical scheme can be applied to any general dislocation configuration with complex geometry and loading conditions.
Afforestation with Pinus nigra Arn ssp salzmannii along an elevation gradient: controlling factors and implications for climate change adaptation
Authors: Lucas-Borja Manuel Esteban , Jing Xin , Candel-Perez David , Parhizkar Misagh , Rocha Francisco , Heydari Mehdi , Muñoz-Rojas Miriam , Zema Demetrio Antonio
Published: July 2021

Key Message

The first bottleneck in Spanish black pine survival through afforestation is the lack of resistance to drought in their initial life stages.

Spanish black pine (Pinus nigra Arn ssp. salzmannii) is the most widely distributed pine species in mountain areas of the Mediterranean Basin and is commonly used for afforestation in endangered and degraded areas. Despite its importance, little is known regarding the factors driving seedling survival for this species, which may hamper afforestation success in Mediterranean areas. In this study, we assessed the effects of seed origin and plantation site along a natural gradient with contrasting elevation and climatic conditions in a Mediterranean forest in Central-Eastern Spain. Our results showed: (1) higher seedling survival rates when seed origin differed from plantation site (25.3 ± 5.4%) compared to same origin and plantation site (5.3 ± 2.7%); (2) higher survival probability (~ 20%) for high and medium elevation seeds (colder and wetter locations) compared to the warmer and drier low elevation sites (15%); (3) higher seedling survival (~ 40%) at higher elevation sites compared to low-elevation sites (< 20%); and (4) increased hazard of seedling death with decreasing elevation of the plantation site. We also reported a complete mortality at the drier sites after the first summer following the plantation. Overall, the combination of seeds from medium elevation and high elevation plantation sites increased the survival of Spanish black pine. These results have direct implications for forest management of Spanish black pine in Mediterranean regions, particularly in current and future climate change scenarios.
Implementation of the BERT-derived architectures to tackle disinformation challenges
Authors: Kula Sebastian , Kozik Rafał , Choraś Michał
Published: July 2021

Recent progress in the area of modern technologies confirms that information is not only a commodity but can also become a tool for competition and rivalry among governments and corporations, or can be applied by ill-willed people to use it in their hate speech practices. The impact of information is overpowering and can lead to many socially undesirable phenomena, such as panic or political instability. To eliminate the threats of fake news publishing, modern computer security systems need flexible and intelligent tools. The design of models meeting the above-mentioned criteria is enabled by artificial intelligence and, above all, by the state-of-the-art neural network architectures, applied in NLP tasks. The BERT neural network belongs to this type of architectures. This paper presents Transformer-based hybrid architectures applied to create models for detecting fake news.
HBeAg-positive patients with HBsAg  < 100 IU/mL and negative HBV RNA have lower risk of virological relapse after nucleos(t)ide analogues cessation
Authors: Xie Yandi , Li Minghui , Ou Xiaojuan , Zheng Sujun , Gao Yinjie , Xu Xiaoyuan , Yang Ying , Ma Anlin , Li Jia , Huang Yuan , Nan Yuemin , Zheng Huanwei , Feng Bo
Published: July 2021

Background

Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) cessation is not widely practiced and remains a controversial, but highly relevant subject in patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). We aimed to explore the related factors for safe NAs cessation.

Methods

This is a multicenter prospective cohort study. Overall, 139 initially HBV e antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients meeting the stopping criteria were included in 12 hospitals in China. Enrolled patients ceased NAs and were followed up every 3 months for 24 months or until clinical relapse (CR).

Results

The 24 month cumulative rates of virological relapse (VR), CR, HBeAg reversion and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) loss were 50.4, 24.5, 11.5 and 9.4%, respectively. Patients with end of treatment (EOT) HBsAg  < 100 IU/mL plus negative HBV RNA had the lowest 24 month cumulative VR rate (5 vs 58%, p < 0.001). EOT HBsAg  ≥ 2 log10 IU/mL [odds ratio (OR) = 6.686, p = 0.006], EOT positive HBV RNA (OR = 3.453, p = 0.008) and EOT hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg)  ≥ 4log U/mL (OR = 3.702, p = 0.002) were found to independently predict the risk of VR. To predict VR, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (AUROC) value of the EOT HBsAg  < 100 IU/mL plus EOT HBV RNA negative was 0.698 (p < 0.001), which was higher than other parameters alone or combinations.

Conclusions

NAs cessation is suitable only for a small and selected patients. An EOT HBsAg  < 100 IU/mL and EOT negative HBV RNA identified a patient with low risk of off-treatment VR.