bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State of the art in nonthermal plasma processing for biomedical applications: Can it help fight viral pandemics like COVID‐19?
Authors: Misra Nilanjal , Bhatt Sudhir , Arefi‐Khonsari Farzaneh , Kumar Virendra
Published: May 2021

Plasma processing finds widespread biomedical applications, such as the design of biosensors, antibiofouling surfaces, controlled drug delivery systems, and in plasma sterilizers. In the present coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) situation, the prospect of applying plasma processes like surface activation, plasma grafting, plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition/plasma polymerization, surface etching, plasma immersion ion implantation, crosslinking, and plasma decontamination to provide timely solutions in the form of better antiviral alternatives, practical diagnostic tools, and reusable personal protective equipment is worth exploring. Herein, the role of nonthermal plasmas and their contributions toward healthcare are timely reviewed to engage different communities in assisting healthcare associates and clinicians, not only to combat the current COVID‐19 pandemic but also to prevent similar kinds of future outbreaks.
Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy of ethyl lactate decomposition and thin‐film coating in a filamentary and a glow dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Milaniak Natalia , Laroche Gaétan , Massines Françoise
Published: May 2021

Glow and filamentary regimes of atmospheric pressure plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition in a planar dielectric barrier discharge configuration were compared for thin‐film deposition from ethyl lactate (EL). EL decomposition in the plasma phase and thin‐film composition were both characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. EL chemical bonds' concentration along the gas flow decreases progressively in the glow dielectric barrier discharge (GDBD), whereas it drastically oscillates in the filamentary dielectric barrier discharge (FDBD), with values higher than that of the initial mixture. EL decomposition route depends on the discharge regime, as the decrease of the concentration of the different investigated bonds is different for an identical amount of energy provided to EL molecules. CO2 is systematically formed reaching concentrations of 25 and 40 ppm, respectively, in FDBD and GDBD.
Non‐self‐sustained electron beam RF‐generated plasma in application for functional surface pretreatment
Authors: Palov Alexander P. , Proshina Olga V. , Rakhimova Tatyana V. , Rakhimov Alexander T. , Voronina Ekaterina N.
Published: May 2021

Simulation of non‐self‐sustained plasma generated by a 2‐keV electron beam in Ar with radiofrequency (RF) biasing is carried out using a one‐dimensional particle‐in‐cell Monte Carlo method. The effect of 10–30 mTorr gas pressure and different RF voltages of 0–45 V on the ion energy and angle distribution functions is analyzed and discussed. The performed ab initio dynamic simulations confirmed the possibility to eliminate methyl groups from the low‐k surfaces with low‐energy (10–20 eV) Ar ions, thereby turning these surfaces from hydrophobic into hydrophilic. The analytical model is developed to calculate the ion fluxes on two‐dimensional trench walls and bottom for conditions under study. It was shown that plasma with a pressure of 10 mTorr and a bias voltage of ≤45 V is better suited for pretreatment of the low‐k trench walls.
Synthesis, Thermal Behavior and Energy Performance of Nitroguanidyl‐Functionalized Energetic Materials
Authors: Bai Jiachao , Yao Ergang , Xiao Libai , Zhou Jie , Ren Yinghui , Zhao Fengqi , Shen Wenzhong
Published: May 2021

Six nitroguanidyl‐functionalized nitrogen‐rich compounds were synthesized and characterized by EA, FT‐IR, and NMR. In addition, the crystal structures of ANPTz, CABNG, and FANG were further determined by X‐ray single‐crystal diffractometer. The thermal decomposition behaviours were studied by the DSC‐TG‐FTIR‐MS coupling technique and the results showed that all the compounds had good thermal stability, among which ANPTz had the best thermal stability (Td=211.03 °C). Also, HCN, CO2, H2O, and NO2 were released during thermal decomposition process. The self‐accelerating decomposition temperature (TSADT) and thermal explosion critical temperature (Tb) were calculated to evaluate thermal safety, and the relative order was as follows: FANG (TSADT=198.68 °C, Tb=209.97 °C)> ANPTz (TSADT=194.12 °C, Tb=208.63 °C)> BANTz (TSADT=182.52 °C, Tb=207.54 °C)> AANG (TSADT=180.04 °C, Tb=188.35 °C)> CABNG (TSADT=176.80 °C, Tb=187.32 °C)> MABNG (TSADT=173.61 °C, Tb=184.29 °C). The results indicated that FANG had the acceptable sensitivity (IS=7.84 J), good detonation performance (D=8551 m⋅s−1, P=32.33 GPa), and the significant catalytic effect (the decomposition temperature of RDX decreased by 8.31 °C).
N‐terminal acetylation of antimicrobial peptide L163 improves its stability against protease degradation
Authors: Li Dandan , Yang Yanhui , Li Ruifang , Huang Liang , Wang Zichao , Deng Qiwu , Dong Shuaibo
Published: May 2021

Antimicrobial peptide L163 was computationally designed by our laboratory; L163 is active against multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria but is easily degraded in the plasma and by trypsin. Amino acid substitution, cyclization, and amino‐terminal (N‐terminal) acetylation were performed to obtain L163 analogs with high stability in the plasma and in trypsin solutions. The stability, antimicrobial activity, and biosafety of L163 and its analogs were investigated. Comparison with unmodified L163 indicated that N‐terminal acetylation enhanced the stability against pH, plasma, and trypsin degradation, and phenylalanine (Phe) substitution for leucine (Leu) and cysteine bridge (S–S) cyclization decreased the stability. N‐terminal acetylation also enhanced antimicrobial activity against MDR Streptococcus Sc181, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus E1478F; did not change the activity against MDR Staphylococcus aureus 9, Staphylococcus sciuri P254, and Staphylococcus aureus RN4220; and decreased the activity against Candida tropicalis, Candida albicans, and Enterococcus faecalis Fbc35. Phe substitution for Leu and S–S cyclization decreased the antimicrobial activity. The negative effect of these modifications was detected against biofilm formation by the tested microbial strains. Comparison of Phe substitution for Leu and S–S cyclization indicated that N‐terminally acetylated L163 (L163‐Ac) is the best candidate. L163‐Ac peptide had the highest antibacterial activity and enhanced tolerance to temperature, pH, plasma, and trypsin and low toxicity.
Bottom‐Up Synthesis of Single Crystal Diamond Pyramids Containing Germanium Vacancy Centers
Authors: Nonahal Milad , White Simon J. U. , Regan Blake , Li Chi , Trycz Aleksandra , Kim Sejeong , Aharonovich Igor , Kianinia Mehran
Published: May 2021

Diamond resonators containing color‐centers are highly sought after for application in quantum technologies. Bottom‐up approaches are promising for the generation of single‐crystal diamond structures with purposely introduced color centers. Here the possibility of using a polycrystalline diamond to grow single‐crystal diamond structures by employing a pattern growth method is demonstrated. For, the possible mechanism of growing a single‐crystal structure with predefined shape and size from a polycrystalline substrate by controlling the growth condition is clarified. Then, by introducing germanium impurities during the growth, localized and enhanced emission from fabricated pyramid shaped single‐crystal diamonds containing germanium vacancy (GeV) color centers is demonstrated. Finally, linewidth of ∼500 MHz at 4 K from a single GeV center in the pyramid shaped diamonds is measured. The method is an important step toward fabrication of 3D structures for integrated diamond photonics.
Penalized estimation of the Gaussian graphical model from data with replicates
Authors: van Wieringen Wessel N. , Chen Yao
Published: May 2021

Gaussian graphical models are usually estimated from unreplicated data. The data are, however, likely to comprise signal and noise. These two cannot be deconvoluted from unreplicated data. Pragmatically, the noise is then ignored in practice. We point out the consequences of this practice for the reconstruction of the conditional independence graph of the signal. Replicated data allow for the deconvolution of signal and noise and the reconstruction of former's conditional independence graph. Hereto we present a penalized Expectation‐Maximization algorithm. The penalty parameter is chosen to maximize theF‐fold cross‐validated log‐likelihood. Sampling schemes of the folds from replicated data are discussed. By simulation we investigate the effect of replicates on the reconstruction of the signal's conditional independence graph. Moreover, we compare the proposed method to several obvious competitors. In an application we use data from oncogenomic studies with replicates to reconstruct the gene‐gene interaction networks, operationalized as conditional independence graphs. This yields a realistic portrait of the effect of ignoring other sources but sampling variation. In addition, it bears implications on the reproducibility of inferred gene‐gene interaction networks reported in literature.
Board design and governance failures at peer firms
Authors: Gai Shelby L. , Cheng J. Yo‐Jud , Wu Andy
Published: May 2021

Research Summary

Our study introduces board committees as a crucial determinant of board actions. We examine how directors who structurally link different board committees—referred to as multi‐committee directors (MCDs)—explain why some board actions are merely symbolic while others are more substantive. As a baseline, we argue that boards in general respond to financial restatements at peer firms by symbolically appointing new directors who are relatively inexperienced and unlikely to have a substantive impact. In contrast, boards with audit–nomination MCDs are more likely to take the substantive action of appointing new directors with the prior experience necessary to reduce the risk of their own future financial restatement. We combine qualitative interviews and a causal identification strategy using an original dataset covering Russell 3000 firms from 2001 to 2014.

Managerial Summary

Committees play a central role in how boards carry out their governance responsibilities. This study shows that assigning directors to multiple board committees can improve governance performance under certain conditions. Specifically, when external events focus attention on the board's monitoring role, the presence of multi‐committee directors (MCDs) that link the audit and nomination committees is associated with the subsequent appointment of more experienced directors and a reduction in the likelihood of future financial restatements and lawsuits. Because these specific board configurations can have substantive implications for governance effectiveness, we recommend that board leaders be deliberate in how they allocate board committee assignments and treat board committee structure as an intentional organizational design choice that can meaningfully improve governance outcomes.
Template‐Free Formation of Regular Macroporosity in Carbon Materials Made from a Folded Polymer Precursor
Authors: Burshtein Tomer Y. , Agami Iris , Sananis Matan , Diesendruck Charles E. , Eisenberg David
Published: May 2021

Porous carbon materials attract great interest in a wide range of applications such as batteries, fuel cells, and membranes, due to their large surface area, structural and compositional tunability, and chemical stability. While micropores are typically obtained when preparing carbon materials by pyrolysis, the fabrication of mesoporous, and especially macroporous carbons is more challenging, yet important for enhancing mass transport. Herein, template‐free regular macroporous carbons are prepared from a mixture of unfolded (linear) and folded (single‐chain nanoparticles, SCNP) polyvinylpyrrolidone chains. While having the same chemical composition, the different molecular architectures lead to phase separation even before pyrolysis, creating a dense cell architecture, which is retained upon carbonization. Upon increasing the SCNP content, the homogeneity of the pore network increases and the specific surface area is enlarged 3‐5‐fold, until ideal properties are obtained at 75% SCNP, as observed by high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy and N2 physisorption porosimetry. The materials are further investigated as hydrazine oxidation electrocatalysts, demonstrating the link between the evolving morphology and current density. Importantly, this study demonstrates the role of polymer architecture in macroporosity templating in carbon materials, providing a new approach to develop complex carbon architectures without the need for external templating.
On broad Kaluza-Klein gluons
Authors: Escribano Rafel , Mendizabal Mikel , Quirós Mariano , Royo Emilio
Published: May 2021

Abstract

In theories with a warped extra dimension, composite fermions, as e.g. the right-handed top quark, can be very strongly coupled to Kaluza-Klein (KK) fields. In particular, the KK gluons in the presence of such composite fields become very broad resonances, thus remarkably modifying their experimental signatures. We have computed the pole mass and the pole width of the KK gluon, triggered by its interaction with quarks, as well as the prediction for proton-proton cross-sections using the full propagator and compared it with that obtained from the usual Breit-Wigner approximation. We compare both approaches, along with the existing experimental data from ATLAS and CMS, for the $$ t\overline{t} $$
t

t
¯

, $$ t\overline{t}W $$
t

t
¯

W
, $$ t\overline{t}Z $$
t

t
¯

Z
, $$ t\overline{t}H $$
t

t
¯

H
, and $$ tt\overline{tt} $$
tt

tt
¯

channels. We have found differences between the two approaches of up to about 100%, highlighting that the effect of broad resonances can be dramatic on present, and mainly future, experimental searches. The channel $$ tt\overline{tt} $$
tt

tt
¯

is particularly promising because the size of the cross-section signal is of the same order of magnitude as the Standard Model prediction, and future experimental analyses in this channel, especially for broad resonances, can shed light on the nature of possible physics beyond the Standard Model.
New insights into the functional role of retrotransposon dynamics in mammalian somatic cells
Authors: Mangiavacchi Arianna , Liu Peng , Della Valle Francesco , Orlando Valerio
Published: May 2021

Retrotransposons are genetic elements present across all eukaryotic genomes. While their role in evolution is considered as a potentially beneficial natural source of genetic variation, their activity is classically considered detrimental due to their potentially harmful effects on genome stability. However, studies are increasingly shedding light on the regulatory function and beneficial role of somatic retroelement reactivation in non-pathological contexts. Here, we review recent findings unveiling the regulatory potential of retrotransposons, including their role in noncoding RNA transcription, as modulators of mammalian transcriptional and epigenome landscapes. We also discuss technical challenges in deciphering the multifaceted activity of retrotransposable elements, highlighting an unforeseen central role of this neglected portion of the genome both in early development and in adult life.
Adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon ameliorates renal inflammation in diet-induced obese mice and endotoxin-treated human glomeruli ex vivo
Authors: Lindfors Sonja , Polianskyte-Prause Zydrune , Bouslama Rim , Lehtonen Eero , Mannerla Miia , Nisen Harry , Tienari Jukka , Salmenkari Hanne , Forsgård Richard , Mirtti Tuomas , Lehto Markku , Groop Per-Henrik , Lehtonen Sanna
Published: May 2021

Aims/hypothesis

Chronic low-grade inflammation with local upregulation of proinflammatory molecules plays a role in the progression of obesity-related renal injury. Reduced serum concentration of anti-inflammatory adiponectin may promote chronic inflammation. Here, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory and renoprotective effects and mechanisms of action of AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist.

Methods

Wild-type DBA/2J mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) supplemented or not with AdipoRon to model obesity-induced metabolic endotoxaemia and chronic low-grade inflammation and we assessed changes in the glomerular morphology and expression of proinflammatory markers. We also treated human glomeruli ex vivo and human podocytes in vitro with AdipoRon and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin upregulated in obesity and diabetes, and analysed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, activation of inflammatory signal transduction pathways, apoptosis and migration.

Results

In HFD-fed mice, AdipoRon attenuated renal inflammation, as demonstrated by reduced expression of glomerular activated NF-κB p65 subunit (NF-κB-p65) (70%, p < 0.001), TNFα (48%, p < 0.01), IL-1β (51%, p < 0.001) and TGFβ (46%, p < 0.001), renal IL-6 and IL-4 (21% and 20%, p < 0.05), and lowered glomerular F4/80-positive macrophage infiltration (31%, p < 0.001). In addition, AdipoRon ameliorated HFD-induced glomerular hypertrophy (12%, p < 0.001), fibronectin accumulation (50%, p < 0.01) and podocyte loss (12%, p < 0.001), and reduced podocyte foot process effacement (15%, p < 0.001) and thickening of the glomerular basement membrane (18%, p < 0.001). In cultured podocytes, AdipoRon attenuated the LPS-induced activation of the central inflammatory signalling pathways NF-κB-p65, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) (30%, 36% and 22%, respectively, p < 0.001), reduced the secretion of TNFα (32%, p < 0.01), and protected against podocyte apoptosis and migration. In human glomeruli ex vivo, AdipoRon reduced the LPS-induced secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and IL-10.

Conclusions/interpretation

AdipoRon attenuated the renal expression of proinflammatory cytokines in HFD-fed mice and LPS-stimulated human glomeruli, which apparently contributed to the amelioration of glomerular inflammation and injury. Mechanistically, based on assays on cultured podocytes, AdipoRon reduced LPS-induced activation of the NF-κB-p65, JNK and p38-MAPK pathways, thereby impelling the decrease in apoptosis, migration and secretion of TNFα. We conclude that the activation of the adiponectin receptor by AdipoRon is a potent strategy to attenuate endotoxaemia-associated renal inflammation.

Graphical abstract
The effect of age, sex and a firm-textured surface on postural control
Authors: Palazzo Francesco , Nardi Alessandra , Lamouchideli Niloofar , Caronti Alfio , Alashram Anas , Padua Elvira , Annino Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

In previous studies, the influence of plantar sensation has been examined using various textured surfaces with different stiffness materials to assess static balance. This study investigated the effects of a Firm Textured Surface (FTS) along with age and sex-related influences on postural control under different visual conditions. Forty subjects (20 elderly, 10 males, mean age 68.30, 10 females, mean age 68.00, and 20 young people, 10 males, mean age 25.45, 10 females, mean age 27.30) participated in this study maintained a quiet standing on FTS, foam and firm surfaces with eyes open and closed. The center of pressure displacement (CoPDISP), CoP velocity (CoPVEL), and sway velocity of the CoP in anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) direction (VA/P and VM/L) were measured. FTS was associated with lower postural sway measures in both the groups with eyes open and closed. However, the foam surface showed the worst results in all postural parameters under all experimental conditions. Separate four-way ANOVAs were applied to each dependent variable. The main effects of surface (p < 0.0001), vision (p < 0.0001) and age (p < 0.0001 for CoPDISP, CoPVEL and VA/P; p = 0.0003 for VM/L) were significant in each of the four fitted models. Sex was never significant, either as a main effect or an interaction with other experimental factors. Eyes open were able to reduce the negative effects of the foam surfaces but without vision the proprioceptive sensory system cues of the body state become more important for maintaining balance. A good stimulation with rigid texture should be considered as relief to reduce the physiological-related decline of afferent information with age.
An ADH toolbox for raspberry ketone production from natural resources via a biocatalytic cascade
Authors: Becker Aileen , Böttcher Dominique , Katzer Werner , Siems Karsten , Müller-Kuhrt Lutz , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: May 2021

Raspberry ketone is a widely used flavor compound in food and cosmetic industry. Several processes for its biocatalytic production have already been described, but either with the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or incomplete conversion of the variety of precursors that are available in nature. Such natural precursors are rhododendrol glycosides with different proportions of (R)- and (S)-rhododendrol depending on the origin. After hydrolysis of these rhododendrol glycosides, the formed rhododendrol enantiomers have to be oxidized to obtain the final product raspberry ketone. To be able to achieve a high conversion with different starting material, we assembled an alcohol dehydrogenase toolbox that can be accessed depending on the optical purity of the intermediate rhododendrol. This is demonstrated by converting racemic rhododendrol using a combination of (R)- and (S)-selective alcohol dehydrogenases together with a universal cofactor recycling system. Furthermore, we conducted a biocatalytic cascade reaction starting from naturally derived rhododendrol glycosides by the use of a glucosidase and an alcohol dehydrogenase to produce raspberry ketone in high yield.

Key points

• LB-ADH, LK-ADH and LS-ADH oxidize (R)-rhododendrol

• RR-ADH and ADH1E oxidize (S)-rhododendrol

• Raspberry ketone production via glucosidase and alcohol dehydrogenases from a toolbox

Graphical abstract
Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification identifies copy number changes in normal and undetectable karyotype MDS patients
Authors: Ma Jing , Ai Xiaofei , Wang Jinhuan , Xing Limin , Tian Chen , Yang Hongliang , Yu Yong , Zhao Haifeng , Wang Xiaofang , Zhao Zhigang , Wang Yafei , Cao Zeng
Published: May 2021

Chromosomal abnormalities play an important role in classification and prognostication of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. However, more than 50% of low-risk MDS patients harbor a normal karyotype. Recently, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) has emerged as an effective and robust method for the detection of cytogenetic aberrations in MDS patients. To characterize the subset of MDS with normal karyotype or failed chromosome banding analysis, we analyzed 144 patient samples with normal karyotype or undetectable through regular chromosome banding analysis, which were subjected to parallel comparison via fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and MLPA. MLPA identifies copy number changes in 16.7% of 144 MDS patients, and we observed a significant difference in overall survival (OS) (median OS: undefined vs 27 months, p=0.0071) in patients with normal karyotype proved by MLPA versus aberrant karyotype cohort as determined by MLPA. Interestingly, patients with undetectable karyotype via regular chromosome banding indicated inferior outcome. Collectively, MDS patients with normal or undetectable karyotype via chromosome banding analysis can be further clarified by MLPA, providing more prognostic information that benefit for individualized therapy.
Upregulation of miR-3195, miR-3687 and miR-4417 is associated with castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Rönnau C. G. H. , Fussek S. , Smit F. P. , Aalders T. W. , van Hooij O. , Pinto P. M. C. , Burchardt M. , Schalken J. A. , Verhaegh G. W.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of cancer-related death. Upon androgen-deprivation therapy, the disease may progress further to castration-resistant PCa (CRPC) with a poor prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs, which play crucial roles in gene regulation. The aim of our study is to find CRPC-associated miRNAs and to evaluate their functional role.

Methods

In this study, 23 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), 76 primary PCa, and 35 CRPC specimens were included. Total RNA extracted from tissue sections was used for miRNA profiling on the Affymetrix GSC 3000 platform. Subsequently, stem-loop RT-qPCR analysis was performed to validate the expression levels of selected miRNAs. PCa cell lines were transfected with miRNA mimics or inhibitors to evaluate the effects on cell proliferation, cell migration and cell invasion.

Results

In our profiling study, several miRNAs were found to be deregulated in CRPC compared to primary PCa tissue, of which miR-205 (− 4.5-fold; p = 0.0009), miR-92b (− 3.1 fold; p < 0.0001) were downregulated and miR-3195 (5.6-fold; p < 0.0001), miR-3687 (8.7-fold; p = 0.0006) and miR-4417 (5.0-fold; p = 0.0005) were most upregulated. While KLK3, miR-21 and miR-141 expression levels in androgen-treated VCaP and LNCaP cells were increased, the expression levels of miR-3687 and miR-4417 were reduced. None of the miRNAs were androgen-regulated in the AR-negative PC3 cell line. Overexpression of miR-3687 reduced cell migration and cell invasion, whilst miR-3195 enhanced cell migration.

Conclusion

We have identified several novel deregulated miRNAs in CRPC tissue, including two microRNAs that are potentially involved in tumor invasion. Our data support the hypothesized involvement of miRNAs in PCa tumorigenesis and progression to CRPC. The applicability of these miRNAs as novel biomarkers for CRPC remains to be further investigated.
The value of serum amylase and drain fluid amylase to predict postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: van Dongen Jelle C. , Merkens Steven , Aziz M. Hossein , Groot Koerkamp Bas , van Eijck Casper H. J.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Serum and drain amylase have been identified as important predictors of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and might be useful to guide postoperative drain management after pancreatoduodenectomy. We aimed to determine and compare the value of serum amylase and drain fluid amylase to predict postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients after pancreatoduodenectomy from 2012 to 2019. The primary endpoint of our study was grade B/C POPF. Serum amylase on postoperative day 1 (SA-1) and drain fluid amylase on postoperative day 2 (DFA-2) were analyzed.

Results

A total of 92 of 437 patients (21.1%) developed a grade B/C POPF. SA-1 was higher in patients who developed a grade B/C POPF (336 U/L vs. 97 U/L, p<0.001). Similarly, DFA-2 was higher in patients who developed a grade B/C POPF (1764 U/L vs. 78 U/L, p<0.001). SA-1 and DFA-2 had similar predictive accuracy (AUC: 0.82 vs. 0.85, respectively, p=0.329). Patients with SA-1<100 U/L (n=178) had a risk of 2.2% of developing grade B/C POPF, compared to 38.2% in patients with SA-1 >100 U/L (n=207). Patients with DFA-2<100 U/L (n=141) had a risk of 0% of developing grade B/C POPF, compared to 36.2% in patients with DFA-2>100 U/L (n=196). SA-1 and DFA-2 were strongly associated at a cut-off of 100 U/L (p<0.001, 89% concordance rate).

Conclusion

Postoperative serum and drain amylase values below 100 U/L both effectively rule out POPF after pancreatoduodenectomy. The advantage of serum amylase measurement is that it can be used in patients who are managed without surgical drains.
A mesh-independent framework for crack tracking in elastodamaging materials through the regularized extended finite element method
Authors: Benvenuti Elena , Orlando Nicola
Published: May 2021

We propose a formulation for tracking general crack paths in elastodamaging materials without mesh adaptivity and broadening of the damage band. The idea is to treat in a unified way both the damaging process and the development of displacement discontinuities by means of the regularized finite element method. With respect to previous authors’ contributions, a novel damage evolution law and an original crack tracking framework are proposed. We face the issue of mesh objectivity through several two-dimensional tests, obtaining smooth crack paths and reliable structural results.
Palliative care for children and young people with stage 5 chronic kidney disease
Authors: Craig Finella , Henderson Ellen M. , Patel Bhumik , Murtagh Fliss E. M. , Bluebond-Langner Myra
Published: May 2021

Death from stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD 5) in childhood or adolescence is rare, but something that all paediatric renal physicians and most paediatricians will encounter. In this paper, we present the literature on three key areas of palliative care practice essential to good clinical management: shared decision-making, advance care planning, and symptom management, with particular reference to CKD 5 where kidney transplant is not an option and where a decision has been made to withdraw or withhold dialysis. Some areas of care, particularly with regard to symptom management, have not been well-studied in children and young people (CYP) with CKD 5 and recommendations with regard to drug choice and dose modification are based on adult literature, known pharmacokinetics, and clinical experience.
Pegfilgrastim for primary prophylaxis of febrile neutropenia in multiple myeloma
Authors: Cerchione Claudio , Nappi Davide , Martinelli Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) survival rates have been substantially increased thanks to novel agents that have improved survival outcomes and shown better tolerability than treatments of earlier years. These new agents include immunomodulating imide drugs (IMiD) thalidomide and lenalidomide, the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (PI), recently followed by new generation IMID pomalidomide, monoclonal antibodies daratumumab and elotuzumab, and next generation PI carfilzomib and ixazomib. However, even in this more promising scenario, febrile neutropenia remains a severe side effect of antineoplastic therapies and can lead to a delay and/or dose reduction in subsequent cycles. Supportive care has thus become key in helping patients to obtain the maximum benefit from novel agents. Filgrastim is a human recombinant subcutaneous preparation of G-CSF, largely adopted in hematological supportive care as “on demand” (or secondary) prophylaxis to recovery from neutropenia and its infectious consequences during anti-myeloma treatment. On the contrary, pegfilgrastim is a pegylated long-acting recombinant form of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) that, given its extended half-life, can be particularly useful when adopted as “primary prophylaxis,” therefore before the onset of neutropenia, along chemotherapy treatment in multiple myeloma patients. There is no direct comparison between the two G-CSF delivery modalities. In this review, we compare data on the two administrations’ modality, highlighting the efficacy of the secondary prophylaxis over multiple myeloma treatment. Advantage of pegfilgrastim could be as follows: the fixed administration rather than multiple injections, reduction in neutropenia and febrile neutropenia rates, and, finally, a cost-effectiveness advantage.
Hydrogen electrosorption properties of electrodeposited Pd-Ir alloys
Authors: Hubkowska K. , Pająk M. , Czerwiński A.
Published: May 2021

The study of the hydrogen sorption process in metals/alloys of different forms is crucial for developing the fields of catalysis and energy storage. The objective of this research was to examine basic hydrogen electrosorption properties of Pd-Ir alloy thin films obtained through electrodeposition. Pd-Ir alloys, containing more than 87% at. Pd, were successfully potentiostatically electrodeposited from aqueous baths containing PdCl2 and IrCl3. X-ray diffractometry confirmed the Pd-Ir alloy formation and homogeneity of the deposits. The hydrogen electrochemical absorption was carried out with the use of cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The values of H/(Pd+Ir) for Pd-Ir alloys containing less than 3% at. Ir are similar, comparable to Pd. The further increase of Ir content results in the abrupt drop of hydrogen absorbing capacity. The linear decrease of the potential of α→β phase transition versus Pd content is observed, confirming classification of the Pd-Ir alloys to the group of the contracted alloys.

Graphical abstract
MMP-3 plays a major role in calcium pantothenate-promoted wound healing after fractional ablative laser treatment
Authors: Huth Sebastian , Huth Laura , Marquardt Yvonne , Cheremkhina Maria , Heise Ruth , Baron Jens Malte
Published: May 2021

Ablative fractional laser treatment leads to a loss of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) expression; therefore, in the present in vitro study, we addressed the role of MMP-3 and its regulation by calcium pantothenate in wound healing processes at the molecular level. Utilizing confocal laser microscopy, we investigated MMP-3 protein expression in fractional ablative CO2 laser-irradiated skin models. In addition, we established full-thickness 3D skin models using fibroblasts and keratinocytes with a MMP-3 knockdown that were irradiated with a fractional ablative Er:YAG laser to set superficial injuries with standardized dimensions and minimal thermal damage to the surrounding tissue. We revealed an upregulation of MMP-3 protein expression in laser-irradiated skin models receiving aftercare treatment with calcium pantothenate. Skin models with MMP-3 knockdown exhibited a slower wound closure after laser treatment compared to controls. Gene expression profiling detected an MMP-3 knockdown-dependent upregulation of cytokines and chemokines (e.g. IL-36B, CXCL17, IL-37, CXCL5), antimicrobial peptides (e.g., S100A7, S100A12), epidermal crosslinking enzymes (TGM5), and differentiation markers (e.g., LOR, KRT1, FLG2). We also detected a downregulation of cathepsin V and MMP-10, both of which play a prominent role in wound healing processes. After fractional ablative laser injury, an aftercare treatment with calcium pantothenate accelerated wound closure in MMP-3 expressing models faster than in MMP-3 knockdown models. Our data substantiate a major role of MMP-3 in wound healing processes after ablative laser treatments. For the first time, we could show that calcium pantothenate exerts its wound healing-promoting effects at least partly via MMP-3.
Implantation depth and its influence on complications after TAVI with self-expanding valves
Authors: Breitbart Philipp , Minners Jan , Hein Manuel , Schröfel Holger , Neumann Franz-Josef , Ruile Philipp
Published: May 2021

Prior studies in patients with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) demonstrated an influence of transcatheter heart valve (THV) position on the occurrence of new conductions disturbances (CD) and paravalvular leakage (PVL) post TAVI in balloon-expandable valves (BEV). Purpose of this study was to investigate the THV implantation depth and its influence on the occurrence of CD and PVL in self-expanding valves (SEV). We performed fusion imaging of pre- and post-procedural computed tomography angiography in 104 TAVI-patients (all with Evolut R) to receive a 3-D reconstruction of the THV within the native annulus region. The THV length below the native annulus was measured for assessment of implantation depth. Electrocardiograms pre-discharge were assessed for conduction disturbances (CD), PVL was determined in transthoracic echocardiography. The mean implantation depth of the THV in the whole cohort was 4.3 ± 3.0 mm. Using the best cut-off of ≥ 4 mm in receiver operating characteristic curve analysis (sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 60.0%) patients with lower THV position developed more new CD after TAVI (68.2 vs. 23.7%, P < 0.001). A deep THV position was identified as the only predictor for new CD after TAVI (odds ratio [CI] 1.312[1.119–1.539], P = 0.001). The implantation depth showed no influence on the grade of PVL (r = 0.052, P = 0.598). In patients with TAVI using the Evolut R SEV, a lower THV positioning (≥ 4 mm length below annulus) was a predictor for new conduction disturbances. In contrast, implantation depth was not associated with the extent of PVL.

Graphic abstract

Prostheses positions of self-expanding valves and their influence on the occurrence of new conduction disturbances and the grade of paravalvular leakage after TAVI.
Hydrological processing of salinity and nitrate in the Salinas Valley agricultural watershed
Authors: Zikalala Prudentia , Kisekka Isaya , Grismer Mark
Published: May 2021

Regime shifts of major salinity constituents (Ca, Mg, Na, K, SO4, Cl, HCO3, and NO3) in the lower Salinas River, an agricultural ecosystem, can have major impacts on ecosystem services central to continued agricultural production in the region. Regime shifts are large, persistent, and often abrupt changes in the structure and dynamics of social-ecological systems that occur when there is a reorganization of the dominant feedbacks in the system. Monitoring information on changes in the system state, controlling variables, and feedbacks is a crucial contributor to applying sustainability and ecosystem resilience at an operational level. To better understand the factors driving salinization of the lower Salinas River on the central coast of California, we examined a 27-year record of concentrations of major salinity constituents in the river. Although limited in providing an understanding of solute flux behavior during storm events, long-term “grab sampling” datasets with accompanying stream discharges can be used to estimate the actual history of concentrations and fluxes. We developed new concentration–discharge relationships to evaluate the dynamics of chemical weathering, hydrological processes, and agricultural practices in the watershed. Examinations of long-term records of surface water and groundwater salinity are required to provide both understanding and perspective towards managing salinity in arid and semi-arid regions while also enabling determination of the influence of external climatic variability and internal drivers in the system. We found that rock weathering is the main source of Ca, Mg, Na, HCO3, and SO4 in the river that further enables ion exchange between Ca, Mg, and Na. River concentrations of K, NO3, and Cl were associated with human activities while agricultural practices were the major source of K and NO3. A more direct anthropogenic positive trend in NO3 that has persisted since the mid-1990s is associated with the lag or memory effects of field cropping and use of flood irrigation. Event to inter-year scale patterns in the lower Salinas River salinity are further controlled by antecedent hydrologic conditions. This study underscores the importance of obtaining long-term monitoring records towards understanding watershed changes-of-state and time constants on the range of driving processes.
The impact of soil erosion on soil-related ecosystem services: development and testing a scenario-based assessment approach
Authors: Steinhoff-Knopp Bastian , Kuhn Tinka K. , Burkhard Benjamin
Published: May 2021

The ecosystem service (ES) approach usually addresses soil erosion as the regulating service control of erosion rates or soil retention. In addition to the assessment of this regulating ES, mitigated impacts on soil-related ES by preventing soil erosion can be assessed. This study presents a scenario-based approach for the assessment of the impact of soil erosion on soil-related ES. The assessment approach was tested in agricultural landscapes in Northern Germany, combining mapping and assessment of soil-related ES. In six scenarios, the degradation of soils due to soil erosion was simulated by the calculation of soil profile reductions. The scenarios represent two levels of impact with three time steps (+50, +100, +150 years). In the scenarios for the structural impact, the potential soil erosion rates were extrapolated into the future to generate spatially explicit information on degraded soils. In the scenarios for the mitigated impact, the actual soil erosion rates were extrapolated. Four soil-related ES were assessed for the initial state and the scenarios crop provision, water filtration, water flow regulation and fresh water provision. The comparison of the potential service supply of the four soil-related ES in the scenarios enabled the assessment of the long-term effect of the ES control of erosion rates. The mitigated reduction in the potential service supply for three of the considered ES (crop provision, water filtration, water flow regulation) is large and highlights the importance of sustainable soil management. Contrary to this, the ES fresh water provision benefits of erosion-induced soil profile reductions.
Digging into the roots: understanding direct and indirect drivers of ecosystem service trade-offs in coastal grasslands via plant functional traits
Authors: Cebrián-Piqueras Miguel A. , Trinogga Juliane , Trenkamp Anastasia , Minden Vanessa , Maier Martin , Mantilla-Contreras Jasmin
Published: May 2021

Recent empirical and theoretical approaches have called for an understanding of the processes underpinning ecosystem service provision. Environmental gradients have shown effects on key plant functional traits that subsequently explain ecosystem properties of several systems. However, little is known concerning how associations between plant functional traits, including both below- and aboveground plant components, predict ecosystem properties and independently measured final ecosystem services. Here, we modeled (1) the responses of the leaf and plant economics spectrum, Plant size axis, and root growth to environmental gradients and (2) how associations between plant functional traits explain trade-offs and synergies between multiple ecosystem properties and final services. Forty-four plots were studied in a coastal marsh landscape of the German North Sea Coast. We used a partial least square structural equation model approach to test the hypothesized model. We found (1) a negative covariation between plant traits pertaining to a size axis and traits explaining both plant growth (roots and stems) and the leaf economics spectrum; (2) this trade-off responded significantly to the land use gradient and nutrient availability, which were both strongly driven by the groundwater gradient; (3) this trade-off explained an initial major trade-off between carbon stocks, at one extreme of the axis, and both the habitat value to conserve endangered plants and forage production for meat and dairy products at the other extreme. However, a secondary trade-off between nature conservation value and forage production, explained by a trade-off between leaf economics spectrum and plant growth in response to the land use intensity gradient, was also found.
Does the short-term fluctuation of mineral element concentrations in the closed hydroponic experimental facilities affect the mineral concentrations in cucumber plants exposed to elevated CO2?
Authors: Li Xun , Dong Jinlong , Gruda Nazim , Chu Wenying , Duan Zengqiang
Published: May 2021

Aims

Studies dealing with plants’ mineral nutrient status under elevated atmospheric CO2concentration (eCO2) are usually conducted in closed hydroponic systems, in which nutrient solutions are entirely renewed every several days. Here, we investigated the contribution of the fluctuation of concentrations of N ([N]), P ([P]), and K ([K]) in nutrient solutions in this short period on their concentrations in cucumber plants exposed to different [CO2] and N levels.

Methods

Cucumber (Cucumis sativusL.) plants were hydroponically grown under two [CO2] and three N levels. [N], [P], and [K] in nutrient solutions and cucumber plants were analyzed.

Results

The transpiration rate (Tr) was significantly inhibited by eCO2, whereas Tr per plant was increased due to the larger leaf area. Elevated [CO2] significantly decreased [N] in low N nutrient solutions, which imposed an additional decrease in [N] in plants. [P] in nutrient solutions fluctuated slightly, so the change of [P] in plants might be attributed to the dilution effect and the demand change under eCO2. [K] in moderate and high N nutrient solutions were significantly decreased, which exacerbated the [K] decrease in plants under eCO2.

Conclusions

The short-term fluctuation of [N] and [K] in nutrient solutions is caused by the asynchronous uptakes of N, K, and water under eCO2, which has an appreciable influence on [N] and [K] in plants besides the dilution effect. This defect of the closed hydroponic system may let us exaggerate the negative impact of eCO2itself on [N] and [K] in plants.
Change in occupational tasks and its implications: evidence from a task panel from 1973 to 2011 for Western Germany
Authors: Maier Tobias
Published: May 2021

The change of tasks in occupations is of interest to economic and sociological research from three perspectives. The task-based technological change approach describes tasks as the link between capital input and labor demand. In human capital theory, tasks are used to distinguish between general and specific human capital. Moreover, in institutional economics or sociology, it is argued that the specificity of occupations influences the marketability of the corresponding skills and tasks. However, data sources that illustrate task change within occupations are rare. The objective of this paper is therefore to introduce a task panel, which is created based on 16 cross-sectional surveys from between 1973 and 2011 of the German microcensus (Labor-Force-Survey), as an additional source to monitor task change. I present and discuss the harmonization method for eleven main activities that are exercised by the incumbents of the occupation within 176 occupational groups. To demonstrate the research potential of this novel data source, I develop an alternative theoretical view on the task-technology framework and classify the harmonized tasks according to their relationship to technological inventions in the third industrial (micro-electronic) revolution (technologically replaceable, technology-accompanying, technology-complementary and technologically neutral). Matching the task panel to an already existing Occupational Panel (OccPan) for Western Germany from 1976 to 2010, I can use fixed-effect regressions to show that changes of tasks within occupations correspond with theoretical expectations regarding the median wage growth of an occupation. The task panel can be matched to any data set containing a German classification of occupations from 1975, 1988 or 1992 to investigate further effects of task change on individual labor market success.
Bryozoan diversity on a whale bone: an uncommon substrate from the continental shelf off NW Spain
Authors: Souto Javier , Reverter-Gil Oscar
Published: May 2021

Carcasses and bones of whales are interesting yet poorly understood habitats for invertebrates and microbial communities. Nevertheless, bryozoans have never before been reported in this particular habitat at the present day. Here, we present the first study on a bryozoan community colonizing a whale bone from the continental shelf off NW Spain at 128 m depth. Thirty-three species of bryozoans were identified, representing 50% of the known bryozoan diversity from this area and depth range. Despite this high biodiversity, no potential whale-fall specialists were detected: all the species are already known in the area, with several being more frequent in shallower or deeper waters. Our results support the hypothesis that the number of specialist taxa on whale-fall habitats decreases drastically on whale remains at depths of less than 260 m. These results also support the theory that whale-falls can serve as intermediate habitats where no other suitable substrate is present, facilitating habitat colonization.