bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic-pulmonary collateral supply associated with clinical severity of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a study using intra-aortic computed tomography angiography
Authors: Sun Wenyu , Ota Hideki , Sato Haruka , Yamamoto Saori , Tatebe Shunsuke , Aoki Tatsuo , Sugimura Koichiro , Tominaga Junya , Shimokawa Hiroaki , Ueda Takuya , Takase Kei
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To assess whether systemic-pulmonary collaterals are associated with clinical severity and extent of pulmonary perfusion defects in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

Methods

This prospective study was approved by a local ethics committee. Twenty-four patients diagnosed with inoperable CTEPH were enrolled between July 2014 and February 2017. Systemic-pulmonary collaterals were detected using pulmonary vascular enhancement on intra-aortic computed tomography (CT) angiography. The pulmonary enhancement parameters were calculated, including (1) Hounsfield unit differences (HUdiff) between pulmonary trunks and pulmonary arteries (PAs) or veins (PVs), namely HUdiff-PA and HUdiff-PV, on the segmental base; (2) the mean HUdiff-PA, mean HUdiff-PV, numbers of significantly enhanced PAs and PVs, on the patient base. Pulmonary perfusion defects were recorded and scored using the lung perfused blood volume (PBV) based on intravenous dual-energy CT (DECT) angiography. Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate correlations between the following: (1) segment-based intra-aortic CT and intravenous DECT parameters (2) patient-based intra-aortic CT parameters and clinical severity parameters or lung PBV scores. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Segmental HUdiff-PV was correlated with the segmental perfusion defect score (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). The mean HUdiff-PV was correlated with the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), cardiac output (rho = − 0.41, p = 0.05), and lung PBV score (rho = 0.43, p = 0.04). And the number of significantly enhanced PVs was correlated with the mean PAP (r = 0.54, p < 0.01), pulmonary vascular resistance (r = 0.54, p < 0.01), and lung PBV score (rho = 0.50, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

PV enhancement measured by intra-aortic CT angiography reflects clinical severity and pulmonary perfusion defects in CTEPH.

Key Points

• Intra-aortic CT angiography demonstrated heterogeneous enhancement within the pulmonary vasculature, showing collaterals from the systemic arteries to the pulmonary circulation in CTEPH.

• The degree of systemic-pulmonary collateral development was significantly correlated with the clinical severity of CTEPH and may be used to evaluate disease progression.

• The distribution of systemic-pulmonary collaterals is positively correlated with perfusion defects in the lung segments in CTEPH.
Co-administration of drugs with parenteral nutrition in the neonatal intensive care unit—physical compatibility between three components
Authors: Nilsson Niklas , Storesund Ingebjørg , Tho Ingunn , Nezvalova-Henriksen Katerina
Published: April 2022

There is a lack of compatibility data for intravenous therapy to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients, and the purpose of this study was to contribute with documented physical compatibility data to ensure safe co-administration. We selected Numeta G13E, the 3-in-1 parenteral nutrition (PN) used at our NICU, together with the frequently used drugs morphine, dopamine and cefotaxime in two- but also three-component combinations. Incompatibility may lead to particle formation (precipitation) and oil-droplet growth (emulsion destabilisation), both which are undesirable and pose a safety risk to already unstable patients. We assessed potential particle formation of three mixing ratios for each combination (always including 1 + 1 ratio) using light obscuration, turbidity and pH measurements combined with visual inspection by focused Tyndall beam. Potential droplet-growth and emulsion destabilisation was assessed by estimating PFAT5 from droplet size measurements and counts, mean droplet diameter and polydispersity index from dynamic light scattering, and pH measurements. Mixed samples were always compared to unmixed controls to capture changes as a result of mixing and samples were analysed directly after mixing and after 4 h to simulate long contact time. None of the samples showed any sign of precipitation, neither in the drug-drug nor in the two- or three-component mixture with PN. Neither did we detect any form of emulsion destabilisation.

Conclusion: Dopamine, morphine and cefotaxime were found to be compatible with NumetaG13E, and it is safe to co-administer these drugs together with this PN in NICU patients.

What is Known:• The need for co-administration of drugs and complex PN admixtures occurs frequently in NICU due to limited venous access.• Available compatibility data are scarce and for combinations of more than two components non-existent.

What is New:• Here we report physical compatibility data of two- as well as three-component combinations of frequently used NICU drugs and a 3-in-1 PN admixture.• Co-administration of Numeta G13E with dopamine and morphine, but also with morphine and cefotaxime is safe in NICU.
Gesundheitliche Vorausverfügungen und die Zeitstruktur guten Lebens
Authors: Stange Lena , Schweda Mark
Published: April 2022

Patientenverfügungen und andere Arten gesundheitlicher Vorausverfügungen wie Advance Care Planning und in gewisser Hinsicht auch Vorsorgevollmachten und Betreuungsverfügungen schließen evaluativ gehaltvolle Annahmen und Werturteile über den weiteren Verlauf des eigenen Lebens ein, die sich als mehr oder weniger angemessen erweisen können und daher einer ethischen Klärung und Reflexion bedürfen. Der Beitrag geht der Frage nach den Grundlagen dieser Annahmen und Urteile nach und argumentiert, dass für ihre Analyse eine strebensethische Perspektive auf Vorstellungen eines guten Lebens in der Zeit besonders geeignet ist. Dazu geben wir zunächst einen kurzen Überblick über die empirische Forschung zu Einflussfaktoren bei der Abfassung gesundheitlicher Vorausverfügungen, insbesondere der Bedeutung von individuellen Wertvorstellungen und Lebensorientierungen. Im nächsten Schritt wenden wir uns vor diesem Hintergrund der Bewertung von Lebensqualität im Lebensverlauf zu. Wie sich dabei zeigt, verweisen die betreffenden Werturteile in mehrfacher Hinsicht auf umfassendere Vorstellungen eines guten Lebens und seines zeitlichen Verlaufs. Daher nehmen wir im Anschluss die Frage des guten Lebens in der Zeit in den Blick und arbeiten typologisierend unterschiedliche Vorstellungen heraus, an denen sich die Implikationen der zeitlichen Erstreckung und Verlaufsstruktur guten Lebens für gesundheitliche Vorausverfügungen deutlich machen lassen. Der Aufsatz formuliert so nicht nur wichtige Perspektiven für eine eingehendere empirische Erforschung evaluativer Aspekte der Abfassung gesundheitlicher Vorausverfügungen. Die Klärung der Bedeutung der Zeitstruktur guten Lebens für solche Verfügungen eröffnet auch einen theoretischen Zugang zu den grundlegenden strebensethischen Fragen, mit denen sich die Betroffenen innerhalb des Rahmens des sollensethisch gut begründeten, gesellschaftlich weithin anerkannten und gesetzlich abgesicherten Rechtes auf ein selbstbestimmtes Sterben konfrontiert sehen.
Lack of cognitive impairment in long-term survivors of colorectal cancer
Authors: Vardy Janette L. , Pond Gregory R. , Cysique Lucette A. , Gates Thomas M. , Lagopoulos Jim , Renton Corrinne , Waite Louise M. , Tannock Ian F. , Dhillon Haryana M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Our longitudinal study reported cognitive impairment in 43% of people following diagnosis of localised colorectal cancer (CRC) versus 15% in healthy controls (p < 0.001) and 50% versus 13% 1–2 years later (p < 0.001). Here we evaluate cognitive function and neuroimaging in a subgroup at long-term follow-up.

Patients and methods

Cancer-free Australian participants in the study, and controls, completed cognitive and functional assessments. Neuroimaging was optional. Blood tests included inflammatory markers, clotting factors, sex hormones and apolipoprotein E genotype. The primary endpoint was demographically and practice effect-corrected cognitive scores comparing CRC survivors with controls over time examined using a linear mixed model, adjusted for baseline performance. Secondary endpoints included cognitive impairment rate using the Global Deficit Score [GDS > 0.5], Functional Deficit Score, blood results and neuroimaging.

Results

The study included 25 CRC survivors (60% men, median age 72) at mean 9 years after baseline (9 received adjuvant chemotherapy) and 25 controls (44% men, median age 68) at mean 6 years after baseline. There were no significant differences in cognitive scores or proportion with cognitive impairment (16 vs. 8%) between survivors and controls and no evidence of accelerated ageing in CRC survivors. Baseline cognitive performance predicted for subsequent cognitive function. There were no differences in functional tests or blood tests between groups. In 18 participants undergoing neuroimaging, 10 CRC survivors had higher myoinositol levels than 8 controls, and lower volume in the right amygdala and caudate and left hippocampal regions.

Conclusions

There was no difference in cognitive capacity and function between CRC survivors and controls 6–12 years after diagnosis. Differences in neuroimaging require confirmation in a larger sample.

Highlights

• No evidence of long term cognitive impairment in colorectal cancer survivors compared to controls 6–12 years after diagnosis

• No evidence of accelerated cognitive ageing in colorectal cancer survivors

• No evidence of long-term functional impairment in colorectal cancer survivors
Interleukin-35 promotes Breg expansion and interleukin-10 production in CD19+ B cells in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wei Sixi , Wu Qingqing , Shen Xue , Dai Wanrong , Zhang Zhiqi , Chen Man , Huang Hai , Ma Li
Published: April 2022

Objective

IL-35 is a potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory cytokine, consisting of a p35 subunit and an Epstein–Barr virus–induced gene 3 (EBI3) subunit, which suppresses CD4+ effector T cell proliferation and promotes regulatory T cell (Treg) expansion. However, the effects of IL-35 on regulatory B cells (Bregs) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) have not been explored. The present study aimed (i) to measure serum IL-35 levels and the percentages of Bregs in the peripheral blood of patients with AS and (ii) to explore their relationships in the pathogenesis of AS.

Methods

A total of 77 patients with AS (AS group), including 47 inactive AS and 30 active AS cases, and 59 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled into this study. The serum levels of IL-35 and IL-10 were detected by ELISA, and the mRNA levels of p35 and EBI3 were measured by RT–qPCR. The percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+ Bregs and IL-35 receptor (IL-12Rβ2, IL-27Rα and gp130), IL-10, p-STAT1, p-STAT3, and p-STAT4 in CD19+ B cells were detected by flow cytometry. The correlations between IL-35 levels and percentages of Bregs were analyzed by determining Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The effect of IL-35 on Bregs was determined by mix-culture of recombinant (r) IL-35 with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

Results

The serum IL-35 and IL-10 levels, p35 and EBI3 mRNA levels, and the percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+ Bregs were significantly lower in AS patients than those in HCs. In addition, the percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+ Bregs in active AS patients were significantly lower than those in inactive AS patients. The serum IL-35 levels were positively correlated with the percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+ Bregs in AS patients. IL-12Rβ2 and IL-27Rα, but not gp130 subunit, were expressed in CD19+ B cells in AS patients. RIL-35 could effectively promote CD19+CD24hiCD38hi Breg expansion and IL-10 production. Meanwhile, rIL-35 also promoted the expression of IL-12Rβ2 and IL-27Rα and the phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 in CD19+ B cells.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that reduced IL-35 production may be associated with Bregs defects in AS patients. RIL-35 induced the proliferation of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi Bregs and IL-10 production, suggesting that IL-35 may serve as a reference for further investigation to develop novel treatments for AS.

Key Points• Our study investigated the effects of IL-35 on Bregs in AS patients.• We found the serum IL-35, IL-10 levels, and the percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+Bregs were significantly lower in AS patients.• The serum IL-35 levels were positively correlated with the percentages of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi and CD19+CD24hiCD27+Bregs in AS patients.• Recombinant IL-35 could effectively promote CD19+CD24hiCD38hi Breg expansion and IL-10 production.
Some measures of kurtosis and their inference on large datasets
Authors: Borroni Claudio Giovanni , De Capitani Lucio
Published: April 2022

This paper deals with the estimation of kurtosis on large datasets. It aims at overcoming two frequent limitations in applications: first, Pearson's standardized fourth moment is computed as a unique measure of kurtosis; second, the fact that data might be just samples is neglected, so that the opportunity of using suitable inferential tools, like standard errors and confidence intervals, is discarded. In the paper, some recent indexes of kurtosis are reviewed as alternatives to Pearson’s standardized fourth moment. The asymptotic distribution of their natural estimators is derived, and it is used as a tool to evaluate efficiency and to build confidence intervals. A simulation study is also conducted to provide practical indications about the choice of a suitable index. As a conclusion, researchers are warned against the use of classical Pearson’s index when the sample size is too low and/or the distribution is skewed and/or heavy-tailed. Specifically, the occurrence of heavy tails can deprive Pearson’s index of any meaning or produce unreliable confidence intervals. However, such limitations can be overcome by reverting to the reviewed alternative indexes, relying just on low-order moments.
Tensor rank bounds for point singularities in ℝ3
Authors: Marcati C. , Rakhuba M. , Schwab Ch.
Published: April 2022

We analyze rates of approximation by quantized, tensor-structured representations of functions with isolated point singularities in ℝ3. We consider functions in countably normed Sobolev spaces with radial weights and analytic- or Gevrey-type control of weighted semi-norms. Several classes of boundary value and eigenvalue problems from science and engineering are discussed whose solutions belong to the countably normed spaces. It is shown that quantized, tensor-structured approximations of functions in these classes exhibit tensor ranks bounded polylogarithmically with respect to the accuracy ε ∈ (0,1) in the Sobolev space H1. We prove exponential convergence rates of three specific types of quantized tensor decompositions: quantized tensor train (QTT), transposed QTT and Tucker QTT. In addition, the bounds for the patchwise decompositions are uniform with respect to the position of the point singularity. An auxiliary result of independent interest is the proof of exponential convergence of hp-finite element approximations for Gevrey-regular functions with point singularities in the unit cube Q = (0,1)3. Numerical examples of function approximations and of Schrödinger-type eigenvalue problems illustrate the theoretical results.
Nonlinear optimization and support vector machines
Authors: Piccialli Veronica , Sciandrone Marco
Published: April 2022

Support vector machine (SVM) is one of the most important class of machine learning models and algorithms, and has been successfully applied in various fields. Nonlinear optimization plays a crucial role in SVM methodology, both in defining the machine learning models and in designing convergent and efficient algorithms for large-scale training problems. In this paper we present the convex programming problems underlying SVM focusing on supervised binary classification. We analyze the most important and used optimization methods for SVM training problems, and we discuss how the properties of these problems can be incorporated in designing useful algorithms.
Gaps in completion and timeliness of breast surgery and adjuvant therapy: a retrospective cohort of Haitian patients with nonmetastatic breast cancer
Authors: Fadelu Temidayo A. , Erfani Parsa , Lormil Joarly , Damuse Ruth , Pierre Viergela , Slater Sarah , Triedman Scott A. , Shulman Lawrence N. , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: April 2022

Background

There are limited data on breast surgery completion rates and prevalence of care-continuum delays in breast cancer treatment programs in low-income countries.

Methods

This study analyzes treatment data in a retrospective cohort of 312 female patients with non-metastatic breast cancer in Haiti. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient characteristics; treatments received; and treatment delays of > 12 weeks. Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors associated with receiving surgery and with treatment delays. Exploratory multivariate survival analysis examined the association between surgery delays and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

Of 312 patients, 249 (80%) completed breast surgery. The odds ratio (OR) for surgery completion for urban vs. rural dwellers was 2.15 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19–3.88) and for those with locally advanced vs. early-stage disease was 0.34 (95%CI: 0.16–0.73). Among the 223 patients with evaluable surgery completion timelines, 96 (43%) experienced delays. Of the 221 patients eligible for adjuvant chemotherapy, 141 (64%) received adjuvant chemotherapy, 66 of whom (47%) experienced delays in chemotherapy initiation. Presentation in the later years of the cohort (2015–2016) was associated with lower rates of surgery completion (75% vs. 85%) and with delays in adjuvant chemotherapy initiation (OR [95%CI]: 3.25 [1.50–7.06]). Exploratory analysis revealed no association between surgical delays and DFS.

Conclusion

While majority of patients obtained curative-intent surgery, nearly half experienced delays in surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy initiation. Although our study was not powered to identify an association between surgical delays and DFS, these delays may negatively impact long-term outcomes.
Spouses’ earnings association and inequality: A non-linear perspective
Authors: Grossbard Shoshana , Mangiavacchi Lucia , Nilsson William , Piccoli Luca
Published: April 2022

We analyze the association between spouses’ earnings taking account of non-linearities along both spouses’ distribution of earnings. We also document the non-linearity of the relationships between earnings and labor force participation, earnings and couple formation, and earnings and number of children. Using simulations, we then analyze how changes in spouses’ rank-dependence structure, labor force participation and couple formation contribute to the upsurge in inequality in the U.S between 1967 and 2018. We find that an increased tendency towards positive sorting contributed substantially to the rise in inequality only among dual-earner couples, while it contributed little to overall inequality across households. Temporal and distributional heterogeneity are important, as earnings association had a more substantial role in the bottom of the earnings distribution and in recent years. The decline in couple formation contributed substantially to the rise in inequality, while the increase in female labor force participation and the fertility decline had equalizing effects.
A Move Forward: Exploring National Identity Through Non-linear Principal Component Analysis in Germany
Authors: Bruinsma Bastiaan , Mußotter Marlene
Published: April 2022

In research on national identity, scholars have developed a wide variety of approaches to measure and better understand this ubiquitous yet complex concept. To date, most of these approaches have been theory-driven, while only a very few have been data-driven. In this article, we aim to contribute to the latter by introducing a new data-driven method that has not been applied yet—that of non-linear principal component analysis (NLPCA). In contrast to other commonly used methods such as factor analysis, NLPCA distinguishes itself by making relatively few assumptions about the data and by allowing for greater flexibility when discovering underlying dimensions of such a complex concept as national identity. Drawing on the 2013 ISSP National Identity module, our analysis focuses on the case of Germany, also taking into account Western and Eastern Germany. Running an NLPCA, we find four dimensions that cover the multidimensionality of national identity: nationalistic attitudes, national pride and attachment, cosmopolitan beliefs, and membership criteria defining national belonging. This article contributes to the empirical debate on measuring national identity by suggesting a new and flexible methodological approach that better grasps the concept’s complexity and which we believe can move empirical research on national identity forward in and beyond Germany.
Operationalising emission and toxicity modelling of pesticides in LCA: the OLCA-Pest project contribution
Authors: Nemecek Thomas , Antón Assumpció , Basset-Mens Claudine , Gentil-Sergent Céline , Renaud-Gentié Christel , Melero Carlos , Naviaux Pierre , Peña Nancy , Roux Philippe , Fantke Peter
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Current field emission modelling and toxicity characterisation of pesticides suffer from several shortcomings like mismatches between LCI databases and LCIA methods, missing characterisation factors, missing environmental compartments, and environmental impact pathways. The OLCA-Pest project was implemented to address these aspects and to operationalise the assessment of pesticides in LCA. Based on this effort, we propose an approach to integrate pesticide emissions into LCI databases.

Methods

The PestLCI Consensus Model has been developed in order to estimate emission fractions to different environmental compartments. The initial distribution fractions should be linked to the compartments air, agricultural soil, natural soil, and freshwater. Emissions to off-field surfaces are hereby distributed between agricultural soil, natural soil, and freshwater by using surface cover data. Deposition on the crop surface should be recorded in an emission compartment crop with 13 sub-compartments for crop archetypes for both food and non-food uses. Default emission fractions are provided to calculate the emission fractions for different pesticide application scenarios.

Results and discussion

A sensitivity analysis shows the effects of the application technique, drift reduction, crop and development stage, field width, and buffer zone on the initial distribution fractions of field-applied pesticides. Recommendations are given for the implementation of a set of default initial distribution fractions into LCI databases, for the organisation of metadata, and for the modelling of pesticide residues in food along the supply chain (processing, storage). Priorities for further research are: improving the modelling of pesticide secondary emissions, further extending emission modeling (e.g. additional application techniques, including cover crops), considering metal-based pesticides in emission models, and systematically assessing human health impacts associated with pesticide residues in food crops.

Conclusions

The proposed approach allows to preserve the mass balance of the pesticide emitted after application, to make a consistent assessment of ecotoxicity and human toxicity, to define a clear and consistent interface between the LCI and LCIA phases, to estimate initial emission distribution fractions based on existing data, to document metadata transparently and efficiently within crop datasets, and to model the removal of pesticide residues in food during processing.
Burden of treatment, emotion work and parental burnout of mothers to children with or without special needs: A pilot study
Authors: Findling Yifat , Barnoy Sivia , Itzhaki Michal
Published: April 2022

The psychological phenomenon of Parental Burnout (PB) results from an imbalance between continuous exposure to chronic parenting stress and available coping resources. The study’s aim was to examine relationships between mothers’ perceived burden of treatment and PB, and their ability to utilize emotion work (EW) as a psychological coping resource. Ninety-eight Israeli mothers (46 had children with special needs with disabilities—W-SND, and 52 had children without special needs—WO-SN) completed questionnaires assessing their perception of burden of treatment, EW and PB. According to the findings, mothers of children W-SND reported significantly higher PB, a higher perceived burden of treatment and deeper EW than mothers of children WO-SN. Additionally, among all the mothers, a positive significant correlation was found between perceived burden of treatment and PB, while among mothers of children W-SND, positive correlations were found between their perceived burden of treatment and deep EW, and between deep EW and PB. These findings suggest that among mothers of children W-SND, PB is related to their perception of the burden of treatment and to performing deep EW. Additional psychological, cultural and environmental factors should be investigated, in order to gain new perspectives regarding PB as a psychological phenomenon that affects parenting and the ability to utilize coping mechanisms for mothers generally and for mothers of children W-SND especially.
Machine Learning-Based Evaluation of Susceptibility to Geological Hazards in the Hengduan Mountains Region, China
Authors: Zhao Jiaqi , Zhang Qiang , Wang Danzhou , Wu Wenhuan , Yuan Ruyue
Published: April 2022

The Hengduan Mountains Region (HMR) is one of the areas that experience the most frequent geological hazards in China. However, few reports are available that address the geological hazard susceptibility of the region. This study developed six machine learning models to assess the geological hazard susceptibility. The results show that areas with medium and high susceptibility to geological hazards as a whole account for almost 21% of the total area, while both are 18% when it comes to the single hazard of landslide and rockfall respectively. Medium and high geological hazard susceptibility is found in three parts of the HMR with different characteristics: (1) the central and southern parts, where the population of the region concentrates; (2) the northern part, where higher geological hazard susceptibility is found along the mountain ranges; and (3) the junction of Tibet, Yunnan, and Sichuan in the eastern part, which is prone to larger-scale geological hazards. Of all the potential influencing factors, topographic features and climatic variables act as the major driving factors behind geological hazards and elevation, slope, and precipitation are crucial indicators for geological hazard susceptibility assessment. This study developed the geological hazard susceptibility maps of the HMR and provided information for the multi-hazard risk assessment and management of the region.
China's Grandmothers
Authors: Lary Diana
Published: April 2022

Over the past century and a half, China has experienced foreign invasion, warfare, political turmoil, and revolution, along with massive economic and technological change. Through all this change, there is one stable element: grandmothers, as child carers, household managers, religious devotees, transmitters of culture, and, above all, sources of love, warmth, and affection. In this interdisciplinary and longitudinal study, China's Grandmothers sheds light on the status and lives of grandmothers in China over the years from the late Qing Dynasty to the twenty-first century. Combining a wide range of historical and biographical materials, Diana Lary explores the changes and continuities in the lives of grandmothers through revolution, wars, and radical upheaval to the present phase of economic growth. Informed by her own experience as a grandchild and grandmother, Lary offers a fresh and compelling way of looking at gender, family, and ageing in modern Chinese society.
Vertical take-off and landing hybrid unmanned aerial vehicles: An overview
Authors: Rehan M. , Akram F. , Shahzad A. , Shams T.A. , Ali Q.
Published: April 2022

This article presents the research status and development trends of Vertical Take-off and Landing hybrid Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. In this research, a special emphasis is laid on the design philosophies, analysis techniques, dynamic modeling, and control laws of hybrid VTOL UAVs. It studies and compares various design configurations of hybrid VTOL UAVs, based on key design features such as aerodynamic performance, flight stability, structural strength, propulsive power, avionics systems, flight controls, autonomy, ease of fabrication and flight transition mechanisms. The benefits and shortcomings of each design configuration are expressed in detail. A selection problem is formulated in a fuzzy environment and the Multi-Attribute Decision-Making technique is employed. Ongoing research projects in the field are discussed and a novel design of tail sitter hybrid VTOL UAV is presented by the authors. This work serves as a useful guide for the prospective explorers of this challenging field of research.
Urgent surgery versus anticoagulation for treatment of superficial	vein thrombosis in patients with varicose veins
Authors: Casian Dumitru , Bzovii Florin , Culiuc Vasile , Gutu Evghenii
Published: April 2022

Summary: Background: We performed a prospective observational study to compare the results of surgery and anticoagulation in patients with superficial vein thrombosis (SVT). Patients and methods: A total of 190 patients (195 limbs) with varicose veins and SVT were included and treated by anticoagulation or by surgery. Patients were followed-up during 6 months. The primary outcome for treatment efficacy was the composite rate of SVT extension/recurrence; deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE). The primary outcome for safety was the rate of wound complications and rate of bleedings. Results: Surgery was performed in 85 (44.7%) patients and 105 patients (5 with bilateral SVT) were treated conservatively. In the whole study cohort the primary outcome for treatment efficacy was registered in 15 (7.6%) cases: 9/85 (10.5%) in surgical group and 6/110 (5.4%) in anticoagulation group. Nine patients treated with surgery were diagnosed with postoperative DVT. In anticoagulation group SVT extension occurred in 3 limbs; SVT recurrence in 2 and DVT in one. There were no cases of PE or death during the follow-up. Time-to-event analysis demonstrated no significant difference between groups (HR 0.48; 95% CI 0.17–1.34). The total length of the thrombus was associated with primary efficacy outcome in surgical group (HR 1.07; 95% CI 1.02–1.11); and duration of anticoagulation (HR 0.91 per day; 95% CI 0.83–0.99) and value of Caprini score (HR 1.86; 95% CI 1.1–3.14) in anticoagulation group. Six (7%) wound complications were registered after surgery and 6 (5.71%) bleedings during anticoagulation. Conclusions: Urgent surgery is not associated with reduction of venous thromboembolism compared to anticoagulation in treatment of patients with SVT and varicose veins during 6-months follow-up. However, in patients with isolated thrombosis of varicose tributaries or with limited involvement of the saphenous trunk surgery is relatively safe.
Effects of Mixed Layer Depth on Phytoplankton Biomass in a Tropical Marginal Ocean: A Multiple Timescale Analysis
Authors: Hou Li‐Tzu , Wang Bo‐Shian , Lai Chao‐Chen , Chen Tzong‐Yueh , Shih Yung‐Yen , Shiah Fuh‐Kwo , Ko Chia‐Ying
Published: April 2022

In open oceans, changes in mixed layer depth (MLD) may affect phytoplankton growth and biomass variations via the regulation of nutrient supply from deep waters. Estimates of relationships between variability in phytoplankton dynamics and the MLD remain limited, especially at different time scales. We compiled and analyzed averaged euphotic‐depth‐integrated chlorophyll‐a (IChl‐a) and surface chlorophyll‐a (SChl‐a) concentrations collected from 27 cruises during the period of 1999–2019 in the tropical northern South China Sea (SCS). Seasonal differences existed in both averaged IChl‐a and SChl‐a concentrations, with significantly high concentrations in the cold season. Inconsistent relationships between the averaged IChl‐a and SChl‐a concentrations between seasons implied that the use of SChl‐a concentration as a common indicator of phytoplankton biomass dynamics should be performed with caution. Over the past decades in the northern SCS, the averaged IChl‐a, SChl‐a, and MLD decreased to a greater extent in the cold season than in the warm season, while sea surface temperature (SST) rose rapidly and dramatically in both seasons. The MLD was observed to have better correlations with the averaged IChl‐a and SChl‐a concentrations than the SST in the time‐series data. Our results highlight the importance of IChl‐a concentration, which is an overall measure of phytoplankton responses to euphotic zone conditions, and the MLD could be used as a good index for changes in phytoplankton biomass under climate change.
Positive modulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in the mPFC reduces the spontaneous recovery of fear
Authors: Lee Boyoung , Pothula Santosh , Wu Min , Kang Hyeyeon , Girgenti Matthew J. , Picciotto Marina R. , DiLeone Ralph J. , Taylor Jane R. , Duman Ronald S.
Published: April 2022

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulators have recently received increased attention as potential therapeutics for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Here, we tested a novel NMDAR-positive modulator, NYX-783, in the following two rodent models of PTSD: an auditory fear-conditioning model and a single-prolonged stress (SPS) model. We examined the ability of NYX-783 to reduce subsequent fear-based behaviors by measuring enhanced fear extinction and reduced spontaneous recovery (spontaneous return of fear) in male mice. NYX-783 administration significantly reduced spontaneous recovery in both PTSD models and enhanced fear extinction in the SPS model. Furthermore, NYX-783 increased the NMDA-induced inward currents of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex (IL mPFC) and that the GluN2B subunit of NMDARs on pyramidal neurons in the IL mPFC is required for its effect on spontaneous recovery. The downstream expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor was required for NYX-783 to achieve its behavioral effect. These results elucidate the cellular targets of NYX-783 and the molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition of spontaneous recovery. These preclinical findings support the hypothesis that NYX-783 may have therapeutic potential for PTSD treatment and may be particularly useful for inhibiting spontaneous recovery.
The promising role of new molecular biomarkers in prostate cancer: from coding and non-coding genes to artificial intelligence approaches
Authors: Alarcón-Zendejas Ana Paula , Scavuzzo Anna , Jiménez-Ríos Miguel A. , Álvarez-Gómez Rosa M. , Montiel-Manríquez Rogelio , Castro-Hernández Clementina , Jiménez-Dávila Miguel A. , Pérez-Montiel Delia , González-Barrios Rodrigo , Jiménez-Trejo Francisco , Arriaga-Canon Cristian , Herrera Luis A.
Published: April 2022

Background

Risk stratification or progression in prostate cancer is performed with the support of clinical-pathological data such as the sum of the Gleason score and serum levels PSA. For several decades, methods aimed at the early detection of prostate cancer have included the determination of PSA serum levels. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview about recent advances in the discovery of new molecular biomarkers through transcriptomics, genomics and artificial intelligence that are expected to improve clinical management of the prostate cancer patient.

Methods

An exhaustive search was conducted by Pubmed, Google Scholar and Connected Papers using keywords relating to the genetics, genomics and artificial intelligence in prostate cancer, it includes “biomarkers”, “non-coding RNAs”, “lncRNAs”, “microRNAs”, “repetitive sequence”, “prognosis”, “prediction”, “whole-genome sequencing”, “RNA-Seq”, “transcriptome”, “machine learning”, and “deep learning”.

Results

New advances, including the search for changes in novel biomarkers such as mRNAs, microRNAs, lncRNAs, and repetitive sequences, are expected to contribute to an earlier and accurate diagnosis for each patient in the context of precision medicine, thus improving the prognosis and quality of life of patients. We analyze several aspects that are relevant for prostate cancer including its new molecular markers associated with diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction to therapy and how bioinformatic approaches such as machine learning and deep learning can contribute to clinic. Furthermore, we also include current techniques that will allow an earlier diagnosis, such as Spatial Transcriptomics, Exome Sequencing, and Whole-Genome Sequencing.

Conclusion

Transcriptomic and genomic analysis have contributed to generate knowledge in the field of prostate carcinogenesis, new information about coding and non-coding genes as biomarkers has emerged. Synergies created by the implementation of artificial intelligence to analyze and understand sequencing data have allowed the development of clinical strategies that facilitate decision-making and improve personalized management in prostate cancer.
O-GlcNAcylation and stablization of SIRT7 promote pancreatic cancer progression by blocking the SIRT7-REGγ interaction
Authors: He Xiaoman , Li Yongzhou , Chen Qing , Zheng Lei , Lou Jianyao , Lin Chuanshuai , Gong Jiali , Zhu Yi , Wu Yulian
Published: April 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers and its dismal prognosis indicates the urgent need to elucidate the potential oncogenic mechanisms. SIRT7 is a classic NAD+-dependent deacetylase that stabilizes the transformed state of cancer cells. However, its functional roles in PDAC are still unclear. Here, we found that SIRT7 expression is upregulated and predicts poor prognosis in PDAC. Then we screened the new interacting proteins of SIRT7 by mass spectrometry and the results showed that SIRT7 can interact with O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT). O-GlcNAcylation stabilizes the SIRT7 protein by inhibiting its interaction with REGγ to prevent degradation, and hyper-O-GlcNAcylation in pancreatic cancer cells leads to hypoacetylation of H3K18 via SIRT7, which promotes transcriptional repression of several tumour suppressor genes. In addition, SIRT7 O-GlcNAcylation at the serine 136 residue (S136) is required to maintain its protein stability and deacetylation ability. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that blocking SIRT7 O-GlcNAcylation at S136 attenuates tumour progression. Collectively, we demonstrate that O-GlcNAcylation is an important post-translational modification of SIRT7 in pancreatic cancer cells, and elucidating this mechanism of SIRT7 is expected to pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic methods in the future.
Non-coding RNAs and ferroptosis: potential implications for cancer therapy
Authors: Balihodzic Amar , Prinz Felix , Dengler Michael A. , Calin George A. , Jost Philipp J. , Pichler Martin
Published: April 2022

Ferroptosis is a recently defined form of regulated cell death, which is biochemically and morphologically distinct from traditional forms of programmed cell death such as apoptosis or necrosis. It is driven by iron, reactive oxygen species, and phospholipids that are oxidatively damaged, ultimately resulting in mitochondrial damage and breakdown of membrane integrity. Numerous cellular signaling pathways and molecules are involved in the regulation of ferroptosis, including enzymes that control the cellular redox status. Alterations in the ferroptosis-regulating network can contribute to the development of various diseases, including cancer. Evidence suggests that ferroptosis is commonly suppressed in cancer cells, allowing them to survive and progress. However, cancer cells which are resistant to common chemotherapeutic drugs seem to be highly susceptible to ferroptosis inducers, highlighting the great potential of pharmacologic modulation of ferroptosis for cancer treatment. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are considered master regulators of various cellular processes, particularly in cancer where they have been implicated in all hallmarks of cancer. Recent work also demonstrated their involvement in the molecular control of ferroptosis. Hence, ncRNA-based therapeutics represent an exciting alternative to modulate ferroptosis for cancer therapy. This review summarizes the ncRNAs implicated in the regulation of ferroptosis in cancer and highlights their underlying molecular mechanisms in the light of potential therapeutic applications.
Construction of emissive ruthenium(II) metallacycle over 1000 nm wavelength for in vivo biomedical applications
Authors: Xu Yuling , Li Chonglu , Lu Shuai , Wang Zhizheng , Liu Shuang , Yu Xiujun , Li Xiaopeng , Sun Yao
Published: April 2022

Although Ru(II)-based agents are expected to be promising candidates for substituting Pt-drug, their in vivo biomedical applications are still limited by the short excitation/emission wavelengths and unsatisfactory therapeutic efficiency. Herein, we rationally design a Ru(II) metallacycle with excitation at 808 nm and emission over 1000 nm, namely Ru1085, which holds deep optical penetration (up to 6 mm) and enhanced chemo-phototherapy activity. In vitro studies indicate that Ru1085 exhibits prominent cell uptake and desirable anticancer capability against various cancer cell lines, especially for cisplatin-resistant A549 cells. Further studies reveal Ru1085 induces mitochondria-mediated apoptosis along with S and G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Finally, Ru1085 shows precise NIR-II fluorescence imaging guided and long-term monitored chemo-phototherapy against A549 tumor with minimal side effects. We envision that the design of long-wavelength emissive metallacycle will offer emerging opportunities of metal-based agents for in vivo biomedical applications.
Spontaneous charging affects the motion of sliding drops
Authors: Li Xiaomei , Bista Pravash , Stetten Amy Z. , Bonart Henning , Schür Maximilian T. , Hardt Steffen , Bodziony Francisco , Marschall Holger , Saal Alexander , Deng Xu , Berger Rüdiger , Weber Stefan A. L. , Butt Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Water drops moving on surfaces are not only an everyday phenomenon seen on windows but also form an essential part of many industrial processes. Previous understanding is that drop motion is dictated by viscous dissipation and activated dynamics at the contact line. Here we demonstrate that these two effects cannot fully explain the complex paths of sliding or impacting drops. To accurately determine the forces experienced by moving drops, we imaged their trajectory when sliding down a tilted surface, and applied the relevant equations of motion. We found that drop motion on low-permittivity substrates is substantially influenced by electrostatic forces. Our findings confirm that electrostatics must be taken into consideration for the description of the motion of water, aqueous electrolytes and ethylene glycol on hydrophobic surfaces. Our results are relevant for improving the control of drop motion in many applications, including printing, microfluidics, water management and triboelectric nanogenerators.
Smoking has disruptive effects on the small bowel luminal microbiome
Authors: Leite Gabriela , Barlow Gillian M. , Hosseini Ava , Parodi Gonzalo , Pimentel Maya L. , Wang Jiajing , Fiorentino Alyson , Rezaie Ali , Pimentel Mark , Mathur Ruchi
Published: April 2022

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of cancer, and affects the respiratory, oral, fecal, and duodenal mucosa-associated microbiota. However, the effects of smoking on the duodenal luminal microbiome have not been studied directly. We aimed to compare the duodenal luminal microbiome in never-smokers, current smokers, and ex-smokers who quit ≥ 10 years ago. In a cross-sectional study, current smokers (CS, n = 24) were identified and matched to never-smokers (NS, n = 27) and ex-smokers (XS, n = 27) by age (± 5 years), body mass index (BMI, ± 3 kg/m2), and sex. Current antibiotic users were excluded. The duodenal luminal microbiome was analysed in 1 aspirate sample per subject by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Relative abundances (RA) of families associated with increased duodenal microbial diversity, Prevotellaceae, Neisseriaceae, and Porphyromonadaceae, were significantly lower in CS vs. NS. This was driven by lower RA of unknown Prevotella and Porphyromonas species, and Neisseria subflava and N. cinerea, in CS. In contrast, RA of Enterobacteriaceae and Lactobacillaceae (associated with decreased diversity), were significantly higher in CS, due to higher RA of Escherichia-Shigella, Klebsiella and Lactobacillus species. Many of these changes were absent or less pronounced in XS, who exhibited a duodenal luminal microbiome more similar to NS. RA of taxa previously found to be increased in the oral and respiratory microbiota of smokers were also higher in the duodenal luminal microbiome, including Bulledia extructa and an unknown Filifactor species. In conclusion, smoking is associated with an altered duodenal luminal microbiome. However, ex-smokers have a duodenal luminal microbiome that is similar to never-smokers.
Single crystalline Ge thin film growth on c-plane sapphire substrates by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE)
Authors: Wangila Emmanuel , Saha Samir K. , Kumar Rahul , Kuchuk Andrian , Gunder Calbi , Amoah Sylvester , Khiangte Krista R. , Chen Zhong , Yu Shui-Qing , Salamo Gregory J.
Published: April 2022

Molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) was used to grow dissimilar materials like cubic Ge on a hexagonal c-plane sapphire substrate. To the authors' best knowledge, this is the first time single crystalline Ge was grown on a c-plane sapphire substrate.
Comment on “Can bulk nanobubbles be stabilized by electrostatic interaction?” by S. Wang, L. Zhou and Y. Gao, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2021, 23, 16501
Authors: Koshoridze S. I. , Levin Yu. K.
Published: April 2022

It is shown that electrostatic pressure arising from the repulsion of ions in the Stern layer around space charge of bulk nanobubbles is the main factor of their stability.
Detection of a miRNA biomarker for cancer diagnosis using SERS tags and magnetic separation
Authors: Treerattrakoon Kiatnida , Roeksrungruang Pimporn , Dharakul Tararaj , Japrung Deanpen , Faulds Karen , Graham Duncan , Bamrungsap Suwussa
Published: April 2022

A SERS-based detection of miR-29a is demonstrated through sandwich complexes formation of MNP/miR-29a/SERS tags, exhibiting high sensitivity and selectivity without enzymatic reaction, amplification steps, or complicated procedures.
Diastereoselective synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]azocines by Lu(OTf)3-catalyzed [4+4] cycloaddition of donor–acceptor cyclobutanes with anthranils
Authors: Hou Meifeng , Li Jiajun , Rao Fucai , Chen Zuliang , Wei Yingjing
Published: April 2022

A Lewis acid-catalyzed [4+4] cycloaddition reaction from D–A cyclobutanes and anthranils, providing the corresponding oxa-bridged eight-membered heterocycles under mild conditions.
Visible-light-mediated amidation from carboxylic acids and tertiary amines via C–N cleavage
Authors: Gu Chengyihan , Wang Shuaishuai , Zhang Qingran , Xie Jin
Published: April 2022

A photocatalyzed amidation from carboxylic acids and tertiary amines through C–N bond cleavage is reported. A wide scope of carboxylic acids can deliver the desired tertiary amides with moderate-to-good yields.
A synthesis-enabled relative configurational assignment of the C31–C46 region of hemicalide
Authors: Stockdale Tegan P. , Lam Nelson Y. S. , Paterson Ian
Published: April 2022

Detailed NMR spectroscopic comparisons with a series of truncate candidates enables the structural elucidation of the C31–C46 region of hemicalide, reducing the number of possible diastereomers from over one million down to eight.