bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How does the financial market update beliefs about the real economy? Evidence from the oil market
Authors: Anatolyev Stanislav , Seleznev Sergei , Selezneva Veronika
Published: July 2021

Oil traders find it challenging to process all information and choose which sources to follow. Inventories represent a perfect source, as they provide important information regarding real agents' intertemporal decisions and can easily be observed in real time. However, inventories do not contain full information about the state of the oil market. We show that financial traders fail to acquire additional information and treat inventories as a sufficient statistic. As a result, the financial market fails to distinguish realized shocks from news shocks and treats all shocks as persistent. To confirm this hypothesis, we use oil inventory announcements to identify market inventory surprises; and we estimate a model of the joint dynamics of returns and return volatilities around announcements using high frequency data on oil futures contracts with short and long maturities.
Bio‐mimicked guided tissue regeneration/guided bone regeneration membranes with hierarchical structured surfaces replicated from teak leaf exhibits enhanced bioactivity
Authors: Satpathy Anurag , Mohanty Rinkee , Rautray Tapash R.
Published: July 2021

Bio‐mimicked GTR/GBR membranes with hierarchical structured surfaces were developed by direct and indirect replication of teak leaf surface. The membranes were fabricated using solvent casting method with customized templates. The surfaces obtained were those with micro‐trichomes (MTS) and micro‐depression (MDS) that resembled a whorling pattern. Structural details of the fabricated membrane surfaces were studied under stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. Surface roughness, water wetting angle, water uptake, and degradation properties of the membranes were examined. The effects of the micro‐patterned hierarchical structure on in vitro bioactivities of human osteoblast‐like cells (MG63) and human gingival fibroblast cells HGF1‐RT1 were studied. In vivo study carried out on rat skulls to assess the response of surrounding tissues for 4 weeks showed that the bio‐mimicked MTS and MDS membrane surfaces enhanced the cell proliferation. The proliferation significantly increased with increasing surface roughness and decreasing contact angle. There was also an evidence of rapid new bone maturation with membranes with MTS. It is thus suggested that the teak leaf mimicked whorling patterned hierarchical structured surface is an important design for enhancing bioactivity.
A novel water‐dispersible and magnetically recyclable nickel nanoparticles for the one‐pot reduction‐Schiff base condensation of nitroarenes in pure water
Authors: Ghamari Kargar Pouya , Ravanjamjah Asiye , Bagherzade Ghodsieh
Published: July 2021

In this work, a heterogeneous nanocatalyst called Ni‐Fe3O4@Pectin~PPA ~ Piconal was first synthesized, which was investigated as a bifunctional catalyst containing nickel functional groups. On the other hand, this Ni‐Fe3O4@Pectin~PPA ~ Piconal catalyst in aqueous solvents shows a very effective performance at ambient temperature for the nitroarene reduction reaction with sodium borohydride, for which NaBH4 is considered as a reducing agent. This is a novelty magnetic catalyst that was approved by various methods, including Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), Inductively coupled plasma (ICP), Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analyses. From the satisfactory results obtained from the reduction of nitrogen, this catalytic system is used for a one‐pot protocol containing a reduction‐Schiff base concentration of diverse nitroarenes. It was corroborated with the heterogeneous catalytic experiments on the one‐pot tandem synthesis of imines from nitroarenes and aldehydes. Finally, the novel Ni‐Fe3O4@Pectin~PPA ~ Piconal catalyst could function as a more economically desirable and environmentally amicable in the catalysis field. The favorable products are acquired in good to high performance in the attendance of Ni‐Fe3O4@Pectin~PPA ~ Piconal as a bifunctional catalyst. This catalyst can be recycled up to six steps without losing a sharp drop.
Recognizing the funds of knowledge of first‐generation college students in engineering: An instrument development
Authors: Verdín Dina , Smith Jessica M. , Lucena Juan C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Students who are the first in their families to attend college are an integral part of undergraduate engineering programs. Growing bodies of research argue that educators could better support these students if they understood the unique backgrounds, experiences, and knowledge they bring with them to higher education.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The purpose of this article is twofold. First, we identify salient funds of knowledge used by a group of first‐generation college students in their educational and work‐related experiences. Secondly, we use the funds of knowledge identified in our participants' experiences to create a survey instrument.

Design/Method

A mixed methods approach was used. Ethnographic interview data of six first‐generation college students were used to hypothesize constructs and create survey items. Survey data were collected from 812 students. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to verify the underlying theoretical structures among the survey items and hypothesized constructs.

Results

Validity evidence supported a 10‐factor model as opposed to the hypothesized 6‐factor model. The 10 latent constructs that make up the funds of knowledge instrument are as follows: tinkering knowledge from home, tinkering knowledge from work, connecting experiences, networks from family members, networks from college friends, networks from coworkers, networks from neighborhood friends, perspective taking, reading people, and mediating ability.

Conclusions

Recognizing first‐generation college students' funds of knowledge is a first step to creating curricular spaces and experiences that better serve them. A survey scale allows educators to empirically examine how these accumulated bodies of knowledge are transmitted to capital, create advantages in engineering, and provides a useful tool to bridge students' knowledge in the classroom.
Too much self‐promotion! How self‐promotion climate relates to employees' supervisor‐focused self‐promotion effectiveness and their work group's performance
Authors: Gross Christian , Debus Maike E. , Ingold Pia V. , Kleinmann Martin
Published: July 2021

Self‐promotion has largely been researched from an individual perspective. It is thus unclear if this behavior is functional or dysfunctional within a broader social context. The present study offers a contribution in this regard by examining self‐promotion within work groups. In particular, we hypothesized that work group self‐promotion climate—referring to the shared perception of the occurrence of self‐promotion in the work group—moderates the relationships between individuals' supervisor‐focused self‐promotion and supervisor ratings of both job performance and promotability. More precisely, we expected these relationships to be positive only when self‐promotion climate is low. With respect to the entire work group, we further hypothesized that self‐promotion climate negatively relates to supervisor‐rated work group performance via impaired work group cohesion. We tested these propositions with data from 195 work groups. Multivariate path analysis provided support for our hypothesized model. Taken together, our findings illustrate the important role of self‐promotion as a climate construct. In particular, self‐promotion climate helps us better understand the role of self‐promotion for individuals and work groups.
Swallowing Outcomes Following Supraglottoplasty: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Nguyen Mai , Brooks Laura , Wetzel Martha , Raol Nikhila
Published: July 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Determine the incidence of short‐ and long‐term dysphagia in pediatric patients with and without syndromes/neurodevelopmental delay following supraglottoplasty (SGP) at our institution.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of children ≤18 years old who underwent SGP from 2014 to 2019 was undertaken. Age at surgery, sex, race, insurance, underlying syndromes/neurodevelopmental delay, concurrent surgical procedures, and clinical swallowing assessments were reviewed. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with postoperative feeding difficulties. Time‐to‐event analysis was performed to assess time to resolution of dysphagia.

Results

A total of 231 patients were identified. Average age at time of SGP was 13.7 months. Of 231 patients, 88 (38.1%) had a syndrome/neurodevelopmental delay. Of these 231 patients, 112 had a preoperative videofluoroscopic swallow study or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing, of whom 53/112 (47.3%) had dysphagia. After SGP, 138/231 (59.7%) underwent clinical/instrumental swallowing assessments, of whom 95/138 (68.8%) had immediate postsurgical dysphagia. At last follow‐up (1 month to 45 months), 15/95 (15.8%) had persistent dysphagia on instrumental assessment, 14/15 of whom had syndromes/neurodevelopmental delay. Time‐to‐event analysis revealed that for the nonsyndromic cohort, 25% had resolution of dysphagia by 4 months, 50% by 10 months, and 75% by 14 months. Cox proportional hazards regression revealed that the presence of underlying syndromes/neurodevelopmental delay was the only factor predictive of long‐term postoperative dysphagia (hazard ratio of resolution 0.21 [95% confidence interval 0.096–0.48]).

Conclusions

While short‐term feeding difficulties following SGP in pediatric patients are not uncommon, long‐term dysphagia is rare in patients without syndromes/neurodevelopmental delay. These data can be used when counseling caregivers about the risks and benefits of SGP.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:2817–2822, 2021
Sufficiency of Kalman's rank condition for the approximate boundary controllability on a spherical domain
Authors: Zu Chengxia , Li Tatsien , Rao Bopeng
Published: July 2021

We establish the sufficiency of Kalman's rank condition on the approximate boundary controllability at finite time for diagonalizable systems on a spherical domain in higher dimensional case.
A centrosymmetric‐coupled tri‐band bandpass filter constituted by loaded bar and embedded S‐shaped resonator
Authors: Ding Shu‐Cong , Liang Jun‐Ge , Wang Xiao , Wang Cong , Kim Nam‐Young , Gu Xiaofeng
Published: July 2021

In this study, a novel tri‐band bandpass filter supported by five resonant modes is developed on the basis of two coupled open‐loop resonators with center‐loaded bars (CLBs). Embedding the S‐shaped resonator into the open‐loop structure generates a new passband while keeping the same layout area. Also, another LB located between the open‐loop resonator and the CLB is introduced to provide the perturbation for generating new resonances. The final design is realized by the structure optimization via adjusting the coupling coefficients and external quality factors. The measurements match well with the simulation which proves its practicability in (0.45–6 GHz) 5G frequency range‐1 (FR‐1).
A systematic review of binge eating, loss of control eating, and weight loss in children and adolescents
Authors: Moustafa Afaf F. , Quigley Kerry M. , Wadden Thomas A. , Berkowitz Robert I. , Chao Ariana M.
Published: July 2021

Objective

This review synthesizes literature on changes in binge eating (BE) and loss of control eating (LOC) following weight loss and the association between BE/LOC and weight loss in children and adolescents.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycInfo. Eligible studies included all peer‐reviewed journal articles of primary research that assessed BE/LOC and weight change following a weight‐loss intervention in individuals under 18 years of age.

Results

The 29 articles included studies on behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, and surgical interventions. Of the 14 studies that assessed the relationship between weight loss and BE/LOC at baseline, 4 showed that higher baseline BE/LOC was associated with less weight loss, whereas 10 showed no significant association. BE/LOC behaviors significantly decreased following weight‐loss interventions in 20 of 21 studies. A greater decrease in BE/LOC was associated with improved weight loss in 4 of 9 studies that assessed this change.

Conclusions

Weight‐loss interventions are associated with improved BE/LOC in youth with obesity. The persistence of BE/LOC symptoms may be associated with less weight loss. These results can aid in guiding future treatment for youth with BE/LOC seeking weight‐loss treatment.
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Radioimmunotherapy for Primary Gastrointestinal Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Desai Sanjal , Moustafa Muhamad Alhaj , Wiseman Gregory , Witzig Thomas
Published: July 2021

Primary gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma (PGIFL) is characterized by localized involvement of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. PGIFL usually runs an indolent course. External beam radiation therapy is curative in a substantial proportion of localized follicular lymphomas, but GI toxicities may discourage its use in PGIFL. Ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy (RIT) is a radioimmunoconjugate of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody linked to chelator tiuxetan and radioisotope. RIT delivers confined high-intensity radiation with short path length specifically targeting lymphoma cells and sparing normal tissue. In this case series report, we included six cases of PGIFL treated with RIT. All patients had low-risk, localized, and nonbulky disease. All patients responded completely and were relapse-free for the duration of follow-up. Hematologic toxicities were seen, but none were serious. RIT is a potentially curative treatment option in PGIFL with a tolerable toxicity profile.
BRAF Inhibitor Therapy-Related Encephalitis in a Patient with Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Babacan Nalan Akgul , Peguero Edwin , Forsyth Peter , Eroglu Zeynep
Published: July 2021

Introduction

BRAF inhibitors such as encorafenib and vemurafenib in combination with MEK inhibitors are commonly used for the treatment of patients with BRAF V600–mutant melanoma.

Case Presentation

A patient with relapsed metastatic melanoma with a BRAF V600 mutation was started on treatment with vemurafenib and cobimetinib. Within 2 weeks of treatment start, he was hospitalized and diagnosed with encephalitis through a lumbar puncture and treated with corticosteroids, with subsequent normalization of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings. When he recovered and was switched to encorafenib treatment, the same symptoms recurred, and the patient was treated with high-dose steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin, again with improvement in his CSF. He has not had a relapse of his symptoms since BRAF inhibitor treatment was permanently discontinued.

Conclusion

This is the first known report of a patient who has developed encephalitis because of treatment with BRAF inhibitors.
Retrospective Study of Bleeding Risk with Concomitant Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor and Anticoagulation
Authors: Sivakumar Akhilesh , Caulfield Sarah E. , Zhang Chao , Goyal Subir , Bilen Mehmet A. , Beardslee Tyler J.
Published: July 2021

Background

Patients with cancer are at higher risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding, in turn complicating anticoagulant therapy. An added complexity is the toxicity profile of agents used to treat certain cancers, namely the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which are associated with both thromboembolism and hemorrhages. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether patients taking concurrent VEGF TKI and therapeutic anticoagulant were at higher risk for bleeding compared with patients taking VEGF TKI alone.

Materials and Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective chart review of patients who underwent treatment with a VEGF TKI with or without anticoagulant. The primary outcome included comparison of major bleeding rates between groups. Secondary outcomes included comparison of composite major and minor bleed rates and assessment of VTE incidence and recurrence among patients treated with a VEGF TKI and VEGF TKI plus anticoagulant, respectively.

Results

A total of 184 and 74 patients were included in the VEGF TKI alone and VEGF TKI + anticoagulant groups, respectively. Major bleeding events occurred in 6 of 184 patients (3.3%) and 6 of 74 patients (8.1%), respectively (p = .095). Composite major and minor bleeding events occurred in 22 of 184 (13.6%) and 17 of 74 (23%), respectively (p = .026). A total of 26 of 258 patients (10.1%) experienced a VTE event while taking a VEGF TKI, and 1 of 26 (3.8%) experienced a recurrent VTE event while taking a VEGF TKI plus anticoagulant.

Conclusion

Patients who received concomitant VEGF TKI plus anticoagulant had increased incidence of bleeding, although prospective studies are needed to further explore this association.

Implications for Practice

The current study showed that use of concomitant vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (VEGF TKI) and therapeutic anticoagulation was associated with an increased risk of composite bleeding events, although at comparable rates between patients treated with VEGF TKI plus direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) versus VEGF TKI plus non-DOAC anticoagulant. This suggests that when anticoagulation is indicated in a patient receiving a VEGF TKI, the novel DOACs may be a safe alternative to historical anticoagulants (warfarin and enoxaparin). These results fill a gap in the literature and will help guide treatment decisions for patients requiring concurrent VEGF TKI and anticoagulation.
Biodegradable cross‐linked poly(1,3‐trimethylene carbonate) networks formed by gamma irradiation under vacuum
Authors: Liu Xiliang , Liu Song , Feng Shaomin , Li Kaiqi , Fan Youkun , Wang Xin , Xiao Jianping , Bai Wei , Chen Dongliang , Xiong Chengdong , Zhang Lifang
Published: July 2021

Rubbery biodegradable cross‐linked poly (1,3‐trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) networks were prepared by gamma irradiation under vacuum in the presence of trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA), and pentaerythritol tetraacrylate (PET4A). The effect of crosslinking agent, crosslinking agent content (1, 3, 5, 7 wt%), and irradiation dose (25, 50, 75, 100, 125 kGy) on PTMC networks were evaluated. The crosslinking efficiency of PETA was better than that of TMPTA and PET4A at a standard sterilization dose of 25 kGy. The PTMC network with gel fractions up to 92% ± 1% and tensile strength up to 26.0 ± 2.2 MPa could be obtained by adding 7 wt% PETA. The increase in irradiation dose reduced the gel content and network density, and led to a decrease in mechanical properties. The PTMC network extracted by ethanol showed better flexibility and mechanical properties. The irradiation crosslinking of PTMC with 7 wt% PETA followed the Chen–Liu–Tang equation instead of the Charlesby–Pinner equation. The incorporation of crosslinking agents improved the creep resistance and thermal stability, resulting in low permanent set values (5.5%). Furthermore, the enzymatic erosion rates of the networks decreased. Therefore, these PTMC networks can be utilized in a broad range of soft tissue engineering.
Periostin deficiency reduces diethylnitrosamine‐induced liver cancer in mice by decreasing hepatic stellate cell activation and cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Xiao Hongjun , Zhang Yezhen , Li Zhaofeng , Liu Bin , Cui Dan , Liu Fan , Chen Dafan , Liu Yingfu , Ouyang Gaoliang
Published: July 2021

Periostin is a critical extracellular regulator in the pathogenesis of liver disorders such as hepatosteatosis, non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Periostin is also involved in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms of periostin in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and tumor cell proliferation in the pathogenesis of HCC remain largely unknown. We demonstrate that periostin is markedly upregulated in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)‐induced mouse HCC tissues and that periostin knockout impairs DEN‐induced HCC development. Periostin is predominantly derived from activated HSCs and periostin deficiency in HSCs impairs HSC activation and inhibits HSC‐promoted HCC cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, periostin promotes HSC activation through the integrin–FAK–STAT3–periostin pathway and augments HCC cell proliferation by activating ERK. There are positive correlations between periostin and HSC activation and cell proliferation in HCC clinical samples. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that HSC‐derived periostin promotes HCC development by enhancing HSC activation through an autocrine periostin–integrin–FAK–STAT3–periostin circuit and by augmenting HCC cell proliferation via the ERK pathway in a paracrine manner. Thus, periostin is a multifaceted extracellular regulator in the development of HCC. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Late adverse effects of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment on developing dentition
Authors: Immonen Egle , Nikkilä Atte , Peltomäki Timo , Aine Liisa , Lohi Olli
Published: July 2021

Background

Childhood cancer survivors show a variety of late adverse effects on dental health. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and severity of dental abnormalities in permanent dentition in childhood leukemia survivors.

Materials and methods

Retrospective analysis of panoramic radiographs was performed for 178 childhood leukemia survivors aged below 17 years at the time of diagnosis. Sex, age at diagnosis, interval between ALL diagnosis and the follow‐up radiograph, treatment protocol, and risk grouping were recorded. Abnormalities of tooth development and defect index were used to assess the frequency and severity of dental abnormalities.

Results

One hundred eight (61%) patients had no dental abnormalities at follow‐up examination at a median of 6.1 years after diagnosis. Microdontia was more frequent in children under 6 years of age at the time of diagnosis (5.7% vs. 0.6%, p < .001). Significant differences were noted between distinct ALL treatment protocols with more common microdontia in patients treated according to the NOPHO ALL2008 protocol. Tooth agenesis was more frequent in patients that underwent therapy according to high‐risk arms compared to intermediate‐ or standard‐risk arms (3.8% vs. 1.4%, p = .01). Patients under 6 years of age at diagnosis had a significantly higher average defect index score than older patients (7.0 vs. 2.8, p = .01).

Conclusions

Children and adolescents who received ALL treatment were at risk for dental damage. Young age and high‐intensity therapy were associated with the severity of dental abnormalities.
Mechanical behavior of carboxylic functionalized graphene reinforced polyurethane nanocomposites under static and dynamic loading
Authors: Dhawan Aakash , Jindal Prashant
Published: July 2021

The present work reports formation of polyurethane (PUR) and carboxylic functionalized graphene (COOH‐fG) nanocomposites via solution mixing method and static and dynamic mechanical characterization with dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), nano indentation, and tensile and compressive testing. Magnetic stirring of the solutions of PUR in N,N dimethylformamide (DMF) and COOH‐fG in DMF was performed for different compositions of filler, 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10%, which were heated to obtain nanocomposite films followed by injection molding to cast into samples. Uniform dispersion and good intercalation were observed upon characterization by field emission scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction techniques. DMA showed that the storage modulus improved with increasing frequency of loading, and a linear decrement in the damping factor with an increase in the concentration of filler was observed. The maximum depth of indent in nano‐indentation test showed a decreasing trend, indicating improvement in nanohardness and elastic modulus with an optimum obtained at 5 wt% composition. An improvement in tensile modulus, tensile strength, and toughness, which were more substantial at lower compositions of filler, was observed. An optimum compressive modulus was obtained for 10 wt% of filler due to more resistance provided by graphene plates to compression as compared to PUR.
Experimental investigation on the dynamic response of additive manufactured PETG composite beams reinforced with organically modified montmorillonite nanoclay and short carbon fiber
Authors: Mahesh Vinyas
Published: July 2021

In this study, the experimental results of the modal analysis of additive manufactured glycol‐modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) based composites reinforced with short carbon fibers and organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) nanoclay (NC) is presented. The raw materials are compounded and extruded using the twin‐screw extruder. The specimens in the beam form are prepared through the fused deposition modeling process, one of the prominent additive manufacturing techniques. The individual and combined effect of reinforcing OMMT nanoclay and short carbon fibers on the natural frequencies and damping factors of PETG composite is investigated by varying their weight percentages. Further, a comparative study is made with the vibration response of pure PETG beam as well. The experimental set‐up constituted of an accelerometer, impact hammer, and data acquisition unit is used for vibration studies. Two different boundary conditions, viz. cantilever and clamped constraints, have been incorporated in this investigation. The experimental results reveal that boundary conditions and the weight percentage of reinforcements play a vital role in deciding the frequency and damping parameters of the PETG composite beam.
Sociodemographic index and global trends in prostate cancer: 1990–2017
Authors: Launer Bryn M. , Lloyd Granville L.
Published: July 2021

Background

Considered globally, prostate cancer is a disease of the aging male that increases in prevalence with exposure to screening and diagnostic testing, and which requires a population with the health and longevity to encounter it. The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) dataset is an aggregation of worldwide registries and health data systems that reports global and regional assessment of disease impact.

Methods

Using the GBD database, 1171 worldwide registries and health registration systems from 1990 to 2016 were aggregated for prostate cancer disease codes and outcomes. Disease‐Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) were calculated and segregated by sociodemographic index (SDI) quintile, and compared to other urologic diseases and tuberculosis (TB).

Results

Prostate cancer exerts a burden of disease that is vastly higher in the top quintile of SDI. The three lowest SDI quintiles represent the majority of global population but are currently less impacted by prostate cancer. Conversely, TB has its highest impact on the lowest SDI levels, although these rates are declining.

Conclusions

As a global disease, prostate cancer predominantly affects high SDI men who enjoy a longer life expectancy in which to suffer from this disease and a greater exposure to screening and diagnosis. As lower SDI men are elevated in health and income, reallocation of DALYs will occur, and a greater burden of prostate cancer can be expected. These epidemiologic trends have great implications for the allocation of resources, as the population of men affected by prostate cancer outpaces urologic workforce growth.
Iterated local search with partition crossover for computational protein design
Authors: Beuvin François , de Givry Simon , Schiex Thomas , Verel Sébastien , Simoncini David
Published: July 2021

Structure‐based computational protein design (CPD) refers to the problem of finding a sequence of amino acids which folds into a specific desired protein structure, and possibly fulfills some targeted biochemical properties. Recent studies point out the particularly rugged CPD energy landscape, suggesting that local search optimization methods should be designed and tuned to easily escape local minima attraction basins. In this article, we analyze the performance and search dynamics of an iterated local search (ILS) algorithm enhanced with partition crossover. Our algorithm, PILS, quickly finds local minima and escapes their basins of attraction by solution perturbation. Additionally, the partition crossover operator exploits the structure of the residue interaction graph in order to efficiently mix solutions and find new unexplored basins. Our results on a benchmark of 30 proteins of various topology and size show that PILS consistently finds lower energy solutions compared to Rosetta fixbb and a classic ILS, and that the corresponding sequences are mostly closer to the native.
Investigation on the Correlation between Piezoelectricity and Its Thermal Behavior with Depolarization Temperature and Antiferroelectric Order in Niobium‐Doped (Na0.41K0.09Bi0.5)TiO3: A Lead‐Free Piezoelectric
Authors: Sharma Ankur , Bhaumik Indranil , Singh Gurvinderjit , Sagar Tiwari Vidya
Published: July 2021

A correlation between piezoelectric response and its thermal stability with the depolarization temperature and antiferroelectric order in (Na0.41K0.09Bi0.5)(1−x/2)(Ti1−xNbx)O3 (x = 0.00–0.0150) ceramic is investigated. A reasonable increase in the piezoelectric response (20–25%) is observed in a limited composition range (0.0050 ≤ x ≤ 0.010). The piezoelectric thermal stability for the lower niobium concentrations (x < 0.010) is found to be reasonably better than many archetypal lead‐free piezoelectrics. However, a significant thermal instability is observed for the higher niobium content (x ≥ 0.010). The observed thermal instability is attributed to the monotonic decrease in the depolarization temperature with the emergence of antiferroelectric ordering in the vicinity of the ferroelectric‐relaxor crossover region. The increase in the piezoelectric response in the aforementioned composition range is associated with the competition among the ferroelectric domain wall movement and the antiferroelectric order. The outcome of the current study reveals that (Na0.41K0.09Bi0.5)(1−x/2)(Ti1−xNbx)O3 with x = 0.005 is a useful lead‐free piezoelectric with consistent thermal response.
NIR‐Activated Multimodal Photothermal/Chemodynamic/Magnetic Resonance Imaging Nanoplatform for Anticancer Therapy by Fe(II) Ions Doped MXenes (Fe‐Ti3C2)
Authors: Wu Yizhang , Song Xueru , Xu Wei , Sun Kuo‐yang , Wang Zhaokun , Lv Zhongyang , Wang Yue , Wang Yong , Zhong Wei , Wei Jia , Cai Hong‐Ling , Wu Xiaoshan
Published: July 2021

2D MXene, Ti3C2 (TC), has displayed enormous potential in applications in photothermal therapy (PTT), attributing to its biocompatibility and outstanding photothermal conversion capability. However, some tumor ablations are difficult to be realized completely by monotherapy due to the essential defects of monotherapy and intricate tumor microenvironment (TME). In this work, the appropriate doped Fe2+ ions are anchored into the layers of 2D ultrathin TC nanosheets (TC NSs) to synthesize a novel multifunctional nanoshell of Fe(II)‐Ti3C2 (FTC) through interlayer electrostatic adsorption. FTC possesses superior photothermal conversion efficiency (PTCE) than TC NSs, attributing to the enhanced conductivity promoted by interlaminar ferrous ion‐channels. Moreover, Fenton reaction based on ferrous ions endows FTC the abilities of reactive oxide species (ROS) releasing and glutathione (GSH) suppression triggered by near‐infrared (NIR) laser, featuring splendid biocompatibility and curative effect in hypoxic TME. Meanwhile, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) responding in FTC reveals the potential as an integrated diagnosis and treatment nanoplatform. FTC could provide new insights into the development of multimoded synergistic nanoplatform for biological applications, especially breaking the shackles of MXenes merely used as a photo‐thermal agent (PTA), adopting it to bioimaging sensor and drug loading.
The ameliorative effect of Moringa oleifera oil on tributyltin‐induced brain toxicity in albino rats
Authors: Sakr Samar , A. Rashad Walaa , Abaza Marwa T.
Published: July 2021

Tributyltin (TBT) is an organotin compound widely used as a biocide in antifouling paints. Moringa oleifera oil (MOO) has a promising antioxidant potential, which necessitates further exploration. This study was conducted to investigate the potential protective effect of MOO against TBT‐induced brain toxicity. The 30 rats were grouped into five groups (six each), Group I negative control, Group II positive control (vehicle), Group III MOO (5 ml/kg body weight [b.wt.]), Group IV TBT (10 mg/kg b.wt.), and Group V TBT & MOO. All treatments were given orally for 28 days. Thereafter, brains were exposed to oxidative stress and neurological parameters analyses. Histopathological and immunohistochemical (caspase‐3, Bax, Bcl‐2) examinations were also carried out. In rats administered TBT, increased malondialdehyde level, decreased reduced glutathione, and low total antioxidant capacity levels were in support of oxidative stress mechanism. Neurotoxicity was indicated by high nitric oxide level and increased acetylcholinestrase activity. Along with the histopathological alterations, the dysregulated expression of caspase‐3, Bax, and Bcl‐2 were indicative of the apoptotic mechanism mediated by TBT. Co‐administration of MOO with TBT ameliorated the aforementioned toxic effects. In conclusion, TBT causes brain toxicity via oxidative, nitrosative, and apoptotic mechanisms. MOO demonstrates protective effect against TBT‐induced brain toxicity mostly via potent antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties.
Lead Exposure is Unrelated to Wind Turbine Mortality in Golden Eagles
Authors: Viner Tabitha C. , Kagan Rebecca A.
Published: July 2021

Lead toxicosis is well established as an important contributor to mortalities in bald and golden eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus and Aquila chrysaetos, respectively), California condors (Gymnogyps californianus), and a variety of waterfowl. The effects of lead toxicosis may predispose birds to traumatic encounters, such as collision with power lines. Rotating wind turbine blades have caused the death of many bird species, including bald and golden eagles, when flight paths intersect wind farms. We conducted an analysis of the relationship between liver lead concentrations and mortality from collisions with wind‐turbine blades (WT) in golden eagles submitted to the National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory (NFWFL) from 2011 to 2016 from across the United States. During that time, 116 golden eagles were determined to have died of wind turbine blade collision and 52 were tested for lead exposure. Liver lead concentrations in our sample were compared to those from 25 golden eagles that died of other causes including electrocution, gunshot, and other trauma. Eagles that died from wind turbine blade collision had lower (P < 0.01) lead concentrations (geometric mean 0.25 ppm wet weight [ww]; median 0 ppm ww) than those with other mortality factors (geometric mean 0.65 ppm ww; median 0.42 ppm ww). Across both control (non‐WT mortality) and WT groups, liver lead concentrations did not differ significantly between males and females (P = 0.95), or between adults and sub‐adults (P = 0.45). The ratios of life stages and sexes in the WT group were similar to that of the broader population of golden eagles submitted to NFWFL during the same time period. Published 2021. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Complexity growth in integrable and chaotic models
Authors: Balasubramanian Vijay , DeCross Matthew , Kar Arjun , Li Yue , Parrikar Onkar
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We use the SYK family of models with N Majorana fermions to study the complexity of time evolution, formulated as the shortest geodesic length on the unitary group manifold between the identity and the time evolution operator, in free, integrable, and chaotic systems. Initially, the shortest geodesic follows the time evolution trajectory, and hence complexity grows linearly in time. We study how this linear growth is eventually truncated by the appearance and accumulation of conjugate points, which signal the presence of shorter geodesics intersecting the time evolution trajectory. By explicitly locating such “shortcuts” through analytical and numerical methods, we demonstrate that: (a) in the free theory, time evolution encounters conjugate points at a polynomial time; consequently complexity growth truncates at O($$ \sqrt{N} $$

N

), and we find an explicit operator which “fast-forwards” the free N-fermion time evolution with this complexity, (b) in a class of interacting integrable theories, the complexity is upper bounded by O(poly(N)), and (c) in chaotic theories, we argue that conjugate points do not occur until exponential times O(eN), after which it becomes possible to find infinitesimally nearby geodesics which approximate the time evolution operator. Finally, we explore the notion of eigenstate complexity in free, integrable, and chaotic models.
Holographic path-integral optimization
Authors: Boruch Jan , Caputa Pawel , Ge Dongsheng , Takayanagi Tadashi
Published: July 2021

Abstract

In this work we elaborate on holographic description of the path-integral optimization in conformal field theories (CFT) using Hartle-Hawking wave functions in Anti-de Sitter spacetimes. We argue that the maximization of the Hartle-Hawking wave function is equivalent to the path-integral optimization procedure in CFT. In particular, we show that metrics that maximize gravity wave functions computed in particular holographic geometries, precisely match those derived in the path-integral optimization procedure for their dual CFT states. The present work is a detailed version of [1] and contains many new results such as analysis of excited states in various dimensions including JT gravity, and a new way of estimating holographic path-integral complexity from Hartle-Hawking wave functions. Finally, we generalize the analysis to Lorentzian Anti-de Sitter and de Sitter geometries and use it to shed light on path-integral optimization in Lorentzian CFTs.
Effects of histamine and various histamine receptor antagonists on gene expression profiles of macrophages during compressive strain
Authors: Schröder Agnes , Petring Catharina , Damanaki Anna , Jantsch Jonathan , Proff Peter , Kirschneck Christian
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Tissue hormone histamine can accumulate locally within the periodontal ligament via nutrition or may be released during allergic reactions by mast cells, which may have an impact on orthodontic tooth movement. In addition to periodontal ligament fibroblasts, cells of the immune system such as macrophages are exposed to compressive strain. The aim of this study was thus to investigate the impact of histamine on the gene expression profile of macrophages in the context of simulated orthodontic compressive strain.

Methods

Macrophages were incubated with different histamine concentrations (50, 100, 200 µM) for 24 h and then either left untreated or compressed for another 4 h. To assess the role of different histamine receptors, we performed experiments with antagonists for histamine 1 receptor (cetirizine), histamine 2 receptor (ranitidine) and histamine 4 receptor (JNJ7777120) under control and pressure conditions. We tested for lactate dehydrogenase release and analyzed the expression of genes involved in inflammation and bone remodeling by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results

Histamine elevated gene expression of tumor necrosis factor under control conditions and in combination with pressure application. Increased prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase‑2 mRNA was observed when histamine was combined with compressive force. Interleukin‑6 gene expression was not affected by histamine treatment. In macrophages, compressive strain increased osteoprotegerin gene expression. Histamine further elevated this effect. Most of the observed histamine effects were blocked by the histamine 1 receptor antagonist cetirizine.

Conclusions

Histamine has an impact on the gene expression profile of macrophages during compressive strain in vitro, most likely having an impairing effect on orthodontic tooth movement by upregulation of osteoprotegerin expression.
Method for residual strain modeling taking into account mold and distribution of heat transfer coefficients for thermoset composite material parts
Authors: Kiauka Mikhail , Kasatkin Mikhail , Tcygantceva Iuliia , Efimov-Soini Nikolai , Borovkov Alexey
Published: July 2021

The article presents a technique for process-induced residual strain modeling for thermoset composite material parts. The model takes into account the mechanical and thermal contact between the part and the mold. The technique is implemented in the ABAQUS software using user subroutines. Using the technique, it is possible to clarify the distribution of the heat transfer coefficient on the surface of the part and mold using the CFD method. Distribution of heat transfer coefficients are obtained in ANSYS CFX under the appropriate process conditions. The method is verified for the U-shaped sample. Also, the results of modeling the stringer-stiffened curved composite panel using the developed technique without taking into account the mold and heat transfer coefficient distribution are presented.
Mechanical and corrosion resistance properties of AA7075-T6 sub-zero formed sheets
Authors: Bertolini Rachele , Simonetto Enrico , Pezzato Luca , Fabrizi Alberto , Ghiotti Andrea , Bruschi Stefania
Published: July 2021

The poor formability of 7xxx series aluminium alloys represents the major limit to their actual use for automotive and aerospace applications. In the present study, the forming temperature effect on the mechanical, corrosion and anodization behaviours of the AA7075-T6 alloy is investigated. To this purpose, tensile tests at different temperatures, ranging from −100 to 300°C, were carried out at different rolling directions. A 6.6% increase of the ultimate tensile strength and a 28.6% increase of the uniform elongation were registered for the specimens deformed at the lowest temperature compared to highest ones. Further, the corrosion resistance of specimens deformed at ultimate tensile strength before and after anodization was increased of 85% and 95%, respectively, compared to the specimens deformed at 300°C. It was demonstrated that high deformation temperatures led to the coalescence of particles and precipitates as well as the decrease of dislocation density, which, in turn, decreased the mechanical and corrosion performances. On the contrary, the deformation temperature of −100°C was found to be the ideal one able to shorten the manufacturing process chain and improve material formability and durability during its in-service life.
Qin’s seven steps for endoscopic selective lateral neck dissection via the chest approach in patients with papillary thyroid cancer: experience of 35 cases
Authors: Chen Zhen-Xin , Song Ya-Min , Chen Jing-Bao , Zhang Xiao-Bo , Lin Zhan-Hong , Cai Bei-Yuan , Pang Feng-Shun , Qin You
Published: July 2021

Background

Endoscopic thyroidectomy is widely performed as it does not result in neck scar. However, there is a paucity of reports pertaining to completely endoscopic lateral neck dissection (LND). In this study, we introduce our step-wise approach for performing endoscopic selective LND via the chest–breast approach. We refer to this approach as Qin’s seven steps.

Methods

The Qin’s seven steps are: (1) establishment of working space range; (2) dissection of lymph nodes between the SCM and the sternohyoid muscle (level IV) and exposure of omohyoid; (3) dissection of lymph nodes at level IV; (4) dissection of lymph nodes at level III; (5) dissection of lymph nodes at carotid triangle (level III); (6) exposure of accessory nerve and dissection of lymph nodes at level II a; (7) dissection of lymph nodes at level II b. We reviewed the clinical data of 35 patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) who were operated using the Qin’s seven steps.

Results

All 35 patients successfully underwent LND; bilateral LND was performed in 5 patients. The mean tumor size was 1.8 ± 1.0 cm; seven patients had multiple lesions. The mean number of retrieved lymph nodes in level II, III and IV were 8.8 ± 5.6, 6.1 ± 4.0 and 9.3 ± 5.1, respectively. As for complications, there were 3 cases of accessory nerve injury and 1 case of hypoglossal nerve injury. Internal jugular vein injury, cervical plexus injury and lymphatic leakage occurred in 2, 7, and 1 patients, respectively.

Conclusion

The Qin’s seven steps for performing endoscopic selective LND could be safely used in PTC patients with lateral lymph node metastasis. Satisfactory results were achieved in the short-term follow-up period. We recommend the use of Qin’s seven steps for PTC patients who are not desirous of neck scar.
Multiyear analysis of the dependency of the planting date on rainfall and soil moisture in paddy fields in Cambodia, 2003–2019
Authors: Tsujimoto Kumiko , Ono Kotaro , Ohta Tetsu , Chea Koemorn , Muth E-Nieng , Hor Sanara , Hok Lyda
Published: July 2021

The dependencies of the planting date on rainfall and soil moisture in paddy fields in Cambodia were analyzed to quantify farmers’ empirical knowledge regarding their decision of the planting date. Remote sensing data from multiple satellites covering the 2003–2019 period were analyzed. The planting dates in rain-fed paddies ranged from April to August, with large spatial variations and year-to-year fluctuations. In years when planting was suppressed in April and May, planting was extensively enhanced in June and August compared to normal years, and vice versa. Over the northeastern side of Tonle Sap Lake and south of Phnom Penh city, the areas planted in April and May were found to have positive correlations with rainfall and soil moisture, suggesting that wetter-than-average conditions encouraged farmers to plant earlier in the season. In contrast, this relationship was unclear on the western side of Tonle Sap Lake, where the rainfall amounts were larger throughout the year than in other areas in Cambodia. In this region, the relationship between the planting area and soil water availability was either unclear or was even slightly negative from June to August. Since more frequent dry spells have been detected after the onset of the rainy season in recent years, further studies and disseminations of potential changes in dry spells are important for the agronomic adaptation of planting dates under climate change.