bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergence of immunosuppressive LOX-1+ PMN-MDSC in septic shock and severe COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Coudereau Rémy , Waeckel Louis , Cour Martin , Rimmele Thomas , Pescarmona Rémi , Fabri Astrid , Jallades Laurent , Yonis Hodane , Gossez Morgane , Lukaszewicz Anne-Claire , Argaud Laurent ,   he RICO study group, Venet Fabienne , Monneret Guillaume
Published: April 2021

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are a heterogeneous population of immature myeloid cells with immunosuppressive properties. In cancer patients, the expression of lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX-1) on granulocytic MDSC identifies a subset of MDSC that retains the most potent immunosuppressive properties. The main objective of the present work was to explore the presence of LOX-1+ MDSC in bacterial and viral sepsis. To this end, whole blood LOX-1+ cells were phenotypically, morphologically, and functionally characterized. They were monitored in 39 coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19, viral sepsis) and 48 septic shock (bacterial sepsis) patients longitudinally sampled five times over a 3 wk period in intensive care units (ICUs). The phenotype, morphology, and immunosuppressive functions of LOX-1+ cells demonstrated that they were polymorphonuclear MDSC. In patients, we observed the significant emergence of LOX-1+ MDSC in both groups. The peak of LOX-1+ MDSC was 1 wk delayed with respect to ICU admission. In COVID-19, their elevation was more pronounced in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. The persistence of these cells may contribute to long lasting immunosuppression leaving the patient unable to efficiently resolve infections.
Comparable endemic coronavirus nucleoprotein‐specific antibodies in mild and severe Covid‐19 patients
Authors: Leach Susannah , Harandi Ali M. , Bergström Tomas , Andersson Lars‐Magnus , Nilsson Staffan , van der Hoek Lia , Gisslén Magnus
Published: April 2021

The severity of disease of Covid‐19 is highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic to critical respiratory disease and death. Potential cross‐reactive immune responses between SARS‐CoV‐2 and endemic coronavirus (eCoV) may hypothetically contribute to this variability. We herein studied if eCoV nucleoprotein (N)‐specific antibodies in the sera of patients with mild or severe Covid‐19 are associated with Covid‐19 severity. There were comparable levels of eCoV N‐specific antibodies early and during the first month of infection in Covid‐19 patients with mild and severe symptoms, and healthy SARS‐CoV‐2‐negative subjects. These results warrant further studies to investigate the potential role of eCoV‐specific antibodies in immunity to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Lack of immune response after mRNA vaccination to SARS‐CoV‐2 in a solid organ transplant patient
Authors: Rusk Debra S. , Strachan Christian C. , Hunter Benton R.
Published: April 2021

The recent approval and distribution of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) have been a major development in the fight against the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. The first two vaccines approved in the United States, mRNA‐1273, and BNT162b2, are both messenger RNA (mRNA) based and highly effective in immunocompetent persons, but efficacy in patients on immunosuppressants has not been established. Additionally, data suggests these patients are less likely than immunocompetent people to develop neutralizing antibodies after COVID‐19 infection. Given the high risk of poor outcomes in organ transplant and immunosuppressed patients, effective vaccination is paramount in this group. We present the first reported case of a solid organ transplant patient who failed to achieve seroconversion after two doses of mRNA vaccine. This case has significant implications about how immunosuppressed patients should be counseled about SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination and the protection provided. Physicians should remain clinically suspicious for infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 despite vaccination status in solid organ transplant patients.
Treatment patterns in US patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 and pulmonary involvement
Authors: Best Jennie H. , Kong Amanda M. , Kaplan‐Lewis Emma , Brawley Otis W. , Baden Rachel , Zazzali James L. , Miller Karen S. , Loveless James , Jariwala‐Parikh Krutika , Mohan Shalini V.
Published: April 2021

This study describes the baseline characteristics and treatment patterns of US patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and pulmonary involvement. Patients hospitalized with pulmonary involvement due to COVID‐19 (first hospitalization) were identified in the IBM Explorys® electronic health records database. Demographics, baseline clinical characteristics, and in‐hospital medications were assessed. For evaluation of in‐hospital medications, results were stratified by race, geographic region, age, and month of admission. Of 6564 hospitalized patients with COVID‐19‐related pulmonary involvement, 50.4% were male, and mean (SD) age was 62.6 (16.4) years; 75.2% and 23.6% of patients were from the South and Midwest, respectively, and 50.2% of patients were African American. Compared with African American patients, a numerically higher proportion of White patients received dexamethasone (19.7% vs. 31.8%, respectively), nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; 27.1% vs. 34.9%), bronchodilators (19.8% vs. 29.5%), and remdesivir (9.3% vs. 21.0%). Numerically higher proportions of White patients than African American patients received select medications in the South but not in the Midwest. Compared with patients in the South, a numerically higher proportion of patients in the Midwest received dexamethasone (20.1% vs. 34.5%, respectively), NSAIDs (19.6% vs. 55.7%), bronchodilators (15.9% vs. 41.3%), and remdesivir (10.6% vs. 23.1%). Inpatient use of hydroxychloroquine decreased over time, whereas the use of dexamethasone and remdesivir increased over time. Among US patients predominantly from the South and Midwest hospitalized with COVID‐19 and pulmonary involvement, differences were seen in medication use between different races, geographic regions, and months of hospitalization.
Decreased in‐hospital mortality associated with aspirin administration in hospitalized patients due to severe COVID‐19
Authors: Haji Aghajani Mohammad , Moradi Omid , Amini Hossein , Azhdari Tehrani Hamed , Pourheidar Elham , Rabiei Mohammad M. , Sistanizad Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Hypercoagulability and thrombosis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are related to the higher mortality rate. Because of limited data on the antiplatelet effect, we aimed to evaluate the impact of aspirin add‐on therapy on the outcome of the patients hospitalized due to severe COVID‐19. In this cohort study, patients with a confirmed diagnosis of severe COVID‐19 admitted to Imam Hossein Medical Center, Tehran, Iran from March 2019 to July 2020 were included. Demographics and related clinical data during their hospitalization were recorded. The mortality rate of the patients was considered as the primary outcome and its association with aspirin use was assessed. Nine hundred and ninety‐one patients were included, of that 336 patients (34%) received aspirin during their hospitalization and 655 ones (66%) did not. Comorbidities were more prevalent in the patients who were receiving aspirin. Results from the multivariate COX proportional model demonstrated a significant independent association between aspirin use and reduction in the risk of in‐hospital mortality (0.746 [0.560–0.994], p = 0.046). Aspirin use in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 is associated with a significant decrease in mortality rate. Further prospective randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the efficacy and adverse effects of aspirin administration in this population.
Change in unit‐level job attitudes following strategic interventions: A meta‐analysis of longitudinal studies
Authors: Solinger Omar N. , Joireman Jeff , Vantilborgh Tim , Balliet Daniel P.
Published: April 2021

The present meta‐analysis tests how cost‐ and people‐oriented strategic interventions impact temporal‐dynamic changes in unit‐level job attitudes within organizations. Analyses are based on 573 effect sizes across 137 longitudinal studies containing unit‐level change in job attitudes across three time periods (pre‐change, during change, and post‐change). Results reveal that unit‐level job attitudes (a) decline during cost‐oriented changes (e.g., restructuring) and remain at lower levels following the changes (supporting a sustained change model); (b) increase during people‐oriented changes (i.e., HRM investments) and remain at higher levels following the interventions (consistent with a sustained change model); and (c) remain unchanged over time when cost‐ and people‐oriented interventions are combined. Tests of a process model further reveal that cost‐oriented (people‐oriented) interventions impact unit‐level job attitudes by reducing (increasing) perceived support (relative to a no intervention control). The pattern of findings suggests that long‐term, unit‐level change in job attitudes can be anticipated to follow from strategic interventions, although some of the negative impact of cost cutting can be mitigated by maintaining perceptions of support.
The combined effects of dynamization time and degree on bone healing
Authors: Fu Ruisen , Feng Yili , Liu Youjun , Willie Bettina M. , Yang Haisheng
Published: April 2021

Dynamization, increasing the interfragmentary movement (IFM) by reducing the fixation stiffness from a rigid to a more flexible condition, is widely used clinically to promote fracture healing. However, it remains unknown how dynamization degree (relative change in fixation stiffness/IFM from a rigid to a flexible fixation) affects bone healing at various stages. To address this issue, we used a fuzzy logic‐based mechano‐regulated tissue differentiation algorithm on published experimental data from a sheep osteotomy healing model. We applied a varied degree of dynamization, from 0 (fully rigid fixation) to 0.9 (90% reduction in stiffness relative to the rigid fixation) after 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks of osteotomy (R1wF, R2wF, R3wF, and R4wF) and computationally evaluated bone regeneration and biomechanical integrity over the healing process of 8 weeks. Compared with the constant rigid fixation, early dynamization (R1wF and R2wF) led to delays in bone bridging and biomechanical recovery of the osteotomized bone. However, the effect of early dynamization on healing was dependent of the degree of dynamization. Specifically, a higher dynamization degree (e.g., 0.9 for R1wF) led to a prolonged delay in bone bridging and largely unrecovered bending stiffness (48% relative to the intact bone), whereas a moderate degree of dynamization (e.g., 0.5 or 0.7) significantly enhanced bone formation and biomechanical properties of the osteotomized bone. These results suggest that dynamization degree and timing interactively affect the healing process. A combination of early dynamization with a moderate degree could enhance the ultimate biomechanical recovery of the fractured bone.
Anticipated impact of recent ethanol lock shortage and price increase on practice among pediatric intestinal rehabilitation programs across the United States
Authors: Talathi Saurabh , Mezoff Ethan , Galloway David , Rahhal Riad
Published: April 2021

Background

Ethanol lock use has been associated with significantly lower rates of central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in children with intestinal failure. Concerns have been raised among intestinal rehabilitation program providers regarding the impact of recent changes in cost and availability of ethanol locks in the US.

Methods

We conducted a survey among the members of the North American Society For Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Intestinal Rehabilitation Special Interest Group (NASPGHAN IR‐SIG) regarding practice changes among providers to tackle this issue and the anticipated effect on CLABSI rates.

Results

The results show that the vast majority of US participants use ethanol locks in their population with intestinal failure, with most anticipating or already experiencing reduction in access to ethanol locks. Most worrisome is that more than half of participating programs expect an increase in CLABSI rates in this vulnerable patient population as a consequence of limited access to ethanol locks.

Conclusion

Further multicenter prospective studies to assess the efficacy of alternative locking agents, besides ethanol, are needed in order to have readily available and affordable options for CLABSI prevention in the future.
Evaluation of galectin‐3, peptidylarginine deiminase‐4, and tumor necrosis factor‐α levels in gingival crevicular fluid for periodontal health, gingivitis, and Stage III Grade C periodontitis: A pilot study
Authors: Akkaya Hazal Üstünel , Yılmaz Huriye Erbak , Narin Figen , Sağlam Mehmet
Published: April 2021

Background

Comparing the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of galectin‐3, peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) in individuals with stage III grade C periodontitis and gingivitis and with healthy periodontium was the purpose of this clinical research.

Methods

Sixty systemically healthy and non‐smoker individuals consisting of stage III grade C periodontitis (group S3P/n = 20), gingivitis (group G/n = 20), and periodontally healthy (group HP/n = 20) were recruited for this research. Clinical parameters such as probing depth, clinical attachment level, gingival index, plaque index, and bleeding on probing were recorded in periodontal charts. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method was used in evaluating the GCF levels of galectin‐3, PAD4, and TNF‐α for study groups.

Results

The GCF galectin‐3 total amount was highest in group S3P compared with group G and group HP (P <0.05). Its total amount was also higher in group G compared with group HP (P <0.05). The GCF PAD4 total amount was higher in group S3P compared with group HP (P <0.05) but was similar with group G (P >0.05). Its total amounts were also similar in group G and group HP (P >0.05). The GCF TNF‐α total amounts were similar in group S3P and group G (P >0.05) but significantly greater than the group HP (P ˂0.05). The GCF galectin‐3, PAD4, and TNF‐α concentrations were lower in the group S3P and group G compared with the group HP (P <0.05). There were significant positive correlations between GCF galectin‐3 total amount and all clinical parameters (P ˂0.01) and also between GCF galectin‐3 and TNF‐α total amounts (P ˂0.01). There was no correlation between PAD4 and clinical parameters, or between PAD4 and TNF‐α (P >0.05).

Conclusions

Galectin‐3 and PAD4 may be involved in the periodontal disease pathogenesis considering the elevated levels of these molecules in periodontal disease. These biomarkers may be used in the diagnosis of periodontal diseases.
Integral imaging display with enhanced depth of field based on bifocal lens array
Authors: Wang Lei , Deng Huan , Zhong Fei‐Yan , Chen Cong , Li Qiang
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we propose a depth‐enhanced integral imaging display based on bifocal lens array. The bifocal lens array consists of a small lens array with plano‐convex circular lens units and a large lens array with square lens units. The proposed display device generates two central depth planes and stitches two reconstructed 3‐D images in depth, which largely improves the depth of field. The experimental results indicate that the proposed structure reconstructed 3‐D image with the depth of field as large as 150.8 mm, which is double of conventional integral imaging display.
Locally Optimizable Joint Embedding Framework to Design Nitrogen‐rich Molecules that are Similar but Improved
Authors: Balakrishnan Sangeeth , VanGessel Francis G. , Boukouvalas Zois , Barnes Brian C. , Fuge Mark D. , Chung Peter W.
Published: April 2021

Deep learning has shown great potential for generating molecules with desired properties. But the cost and time required to obtain relevant property data have limited study to only a few classes of materials for which extensive data have already been collected. We develop a deep learning method that combines a generative model with a property prediction model to fuse small data of one class of molecules with larger data in another class. Common low‐level physicochemical properties are jointly embedded into a latent space that can be used to design molecules in the smaller class. The chemical space around the molecules in the training set is explored through local gradient ascent optimization. Based on nine molecules from the original training set, nine new molecules are found to have improved properties while remaining structurally similar to the training molecules thereby easing requirements for entirely new synthesis routes. Validation is performed using an equilibrium thermochemistry code to verify the molecules and target properties. A specific example targeting the Chapman‐Jouguet velocity and small data for nitrogen‐rich molecules is shown. Despite the relative lack of nitrogen‐rich molecule data, the results demonstrate that fusing and joint embedding with plentiful low nitrogen molecular data can produce higher generative performance than using the scarce data alone.
Stability analysis of a stage‐structure model with spatial heterogeneity
Authors: Yan Shuling , Guo Shangjiang
Published: April 2021

A stage‐structure competition‐diffusion model with spatial heterogeneity is investigated in this paper. Under some suitable assumptions, the existence of spatially non‐homogeneous steady‐state solutions is established by investigating eigenvalue problems with indefinite weight and employing Lyapunov‐Schmidt reduction. The stability of spatially nonhomogeneous steady‐state solutions is obtained by analyzing the set of the spectrum of the associated infinitesimal generator. In particular, the global stability of the steady‐state solutions is described in weak competition case.
A generic deep learning model for reduced gadolinium dose in contrast‐enhanced brain MRI
Authors: Pasumarthi Srivathsa , Tamir Jonathan I. , Christensen Soren , Zaharchuk Greg , Zhang Tao , Gong Enhao
Published: April 2021

Purpose

With rising safety concerns over the use of gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs) in contrast‐enhanced MRI, there is a need for dose reduction while maintaining diagnostic capability. This work proposes comprehensive technical solutions for a deep learning (DL) model that predicts contrast‐enhanced images of the brain with approximately 10% of the standard dose, across different sites and scanners.

Methods

The proposed DL model consists of a set of methods that improve the model robustness and generalizability. The steps include multi‐planar reconstruction, 2.5D model, enhancement‐weighted L1, perceptual, and adversarial losses. The proposed model predicts contrast‐enhanced images from corresponding pre‐contrast and low‐dose images. With IRB approval and informed consent, 640 heterogeneous patient scans (56 train, 13 validation, and 571 test) from 3 institutions consisting of 3D T1‐weighted brain images were used. Quantitative metrics were computed and 50 randomly sampled test cases were evaluated by 2 board‐certified radiologists. Quantitative tumor segmentation was performed on cases with abnormal enhancements. Ablation study was performed for systematic evaluation of proposed technical solutions.

Results

The average peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) and structural similarity index measure (SSIM) between full‐dose and model prediction were dB and , respectively. Radiologists found the same enhancing pattern in 45/50 (90%) cases; discrepancies were minor differences in contrast intensity and artifacts, with no effect on diagnosis. The average segmentation Dice score between full‐dose and synthesized images was (median = 0.91).

Conclusions

We have proposed a DL model with technical solutions for low‐dose contrast‐enhanced brain MRI with potential generalizability under diverse clinical settings.
Patient-Reported Outcomes Predict Progression-Free Survival of Patients with Advanced Breast Cancer Treated with Abemaciclib
Authors: Badaoui Sarah , Kichenadasse Ganessan , Rowland Andrew , Sorich Michael J. , Hopkins Ashley M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Abemaciclib is a CDK4/6 inhibitor used to treat hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative advanced breast cancer. The prognostic value of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) has been minimally explored for treatment outcomes with CDK4/6 inhibitors. The performance of PROs compared with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) is unknown.

Materials and Methods

This study pooled data from single-arm trial, MONARCH 1, and randomized trials, MONARCH 2 and 3. In total, 900 patients initiated abemaciclib and 384 comparator therapy. Pretreatment PRO association with progression-free survival (PFS) was modeled using Cox proportional hazards regression. Prediction performance was assessed via the C-statistic (c). PROs were recorded via the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30.

Results

Patient-reported physical function, pain, role function, fatigue, and appetite loss were associated with PFS on univariable and adjusted analysis (p < .05). Physical function (c = 0.55) was most predictive, superior to ECOG-PS (c = 0.54), with multivariable analysis indicating both provide independent information (p < .02). In the pooled randomized arms of MONARCH 2 and 3, the PFS treatment benefit (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]) of abemaciclib (vs. comparators) was 0.75 (0.57–1.0) for low physical function, compared with 0.48 (0.40–0.59) for intermediate/high (p[interaction] = .01).

Conclusion

PROs were identified as prognostic factors for PFS in patients initiating abemaciclib, with patient-reported physical function containing independent predictive information beyond ECOG-PS. Low physical function was associated with a decrease in the magnitude of PFS benefit from abemaciclib. PROs should be explored as prognostic, predictive, and stratification factors for clinical use and research trials of CDK4/6 inhibitors.

Implications for Practice

For the first time, pretreatment patient-reported outcomes have been shown to be independent prognostic markers for progression-free survival (PFS) in patients diagnosed with hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative (HR+/HER2−) advanced breast cancer treated with abemaciclib. Importantly, patients with low physical function had a smaller PFS benefit from abemaciclib (vs. comparator) than patients with intermediate/high physical function. The present study demonstrates patient-reported outcomes as a simple, effective, inexpensive, and independent prognostic marker for patients with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer treated with abemaciclib.
Not all stress is created equal: Acute, not ambient stress, impairs learning in high schizotypes
Authors: Walter Emma E. , Fernandez Francesca , Barkus Emma
Published: April 2021

Learning from feedback is essential for daily functioning, with factors that impact learning having implications for healthy and clinical populations. Reinforcement learning appears impaired across the psychosis continuum, with deficits reported in patients with psychotic disorders as well as high schizotypes from the general population. Stress can impair learning, and sensitivity to stress is present along the psychosis continuum. The aim of the present study was to understand if stress impairs reinforcement learning in those at the lower end of the psychosis continuum. We investigated both naturalistic stress in everyday life using daily hassles (Study 1: n = 70; 31% male, M age = 22.67 years) and acute psychosocial stress using the Trier Social Stress Test (Study 2: n = 57; 32% male, M age = 22.43 years). In the presence of naturalistic stress, learning did not differ across schizotypes. However, under acute psychosocial stress, high schizotypes experienced impaired learning. Our results suggest trail‐and‐error learning is robust to the ebbs and flows of everyday stress for high schizotypes; however, acute stress is associated with decrements in learning. This indicates that the magnitude of stressors should be considered when designing cognitive and functional interventions for those along the psychosis continuum.
Flexible electroactive PVDF/ZnO nanocomposite with high output power and current density
Authors: Chandran Akash M. , Varun S. , Mural Prasanna Kumar S.
Published: April 2021

In the present study, a lightweight and flexible polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite was prepared using a low‐temperature phase‐inversion process. The synergetic effect of low‐temperature, phase‐inversion, and the integration of ZnO nanoparticles primes on enhancing the electroactive polar β‐phase in the nanocomposite. The transformation of the electroactive phase and its quantification were carried out using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. The PVDF/ZnO piezoelectric polymer nanocomposite was utilized for energy harvesting application that showed a better electromechanical response of ca. 69 V (peak to peak) at ~1.6 N, 250 μW/cm2 surface power density and 0.25 mA/cm2 surface current density. The fabricated piezoelectric polymer nanocomposite is a possible candidate for superior energy scavenging applications for capturing human kinematics.
When is the evidence sufficiently supportive of real‐world application? Evidence‐based practices, open science, clinical readiness level
Authors: Shaw Steven R. , Pecsi Sierra
Published: April 2021

Evidence‐based interventions are the standard for school psychology practice. Yet, how do professionals know when research scope, relevance, transparency, and quality are ready for real‐world application? There remain questions as to exactly how these core concepts of evidence‐based practices (EBPs) are realized. A discussion on whether psychological science can be relied on to deliver real‐world practices related to the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic led IJzerman and colleagues to develop a rubric to evaluate research for real‐world application called evidence readiness level. This model is adapted for school psychologists' use in evaluating and implementing research for clinical practice. Clinical readiness level is a rubric that is designed to narrow the research‐to‐practice gap, provide criteria for EBPs, and specify the value of a scientist‐practitioner model of school psychology.
Click chemistry strategies for the accelerated synthesis of functional macromolecules
Authors: Geng Zhishuai , Shin Jaeman J. , Xi Yumeng , Hawker Craig J.
Published: April 2021

Click chemistry is one of the most powerful strategies for constructing polymeric soft materials with precise control over architecture and functionality. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the state‐of‐the art for synthesizing functional polymers and their expanding range of applications. The synthetic and mechanistic aspects are discussed for key reactions that fulfill “click” requirements and their applications in construction of macromolecules with linear, branched, and other complex architectures are described.
Homopolyimides containing both benzimidazole and benzoxazole with highTgand low coefficient of thermal expansion
Authors: Chen Haiquan , Dai Fengna , Wang Mengxia , Chen Chunhai , Qian Guangtao , Yu Youhai
Published: April 2021

A pair of isomer diamines containing both benzimidazole and benzoxazole and derived homopolyimides were synthesized for the first time. Due to rich rigid and linear benzoazole units, as well as the strong intermolecular interactions from the hydrogen bonding and the charge transfer complexation (CTC), the obtained polyimides (PIs) exhibited outstanding thermal properties, including high thermal weight loss temperature (Td5% = 540–561°C), high glass transition temperature (Tg = 392–421°C), and low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE = 1.3–20.9 ppm/°C). In addition, the obtained PIs also showed ideal mechanical properties (TS = 189–240 MPa,TM = 4.1–5.0 GPa andEB = 2.9%–4.7%). These potential novel PI films with highTgand low CTE were expected to be applied to next generation of flexible display substrate material.
CFTR modulator drug desensitization: Preserving the hope of long term improvement
Authors: Leonhardt Kelsey , Autry Elizabeth B. , Kuhn Robert J. , Wurth Mark A.
Published: April 2021

The development of modulator therapy has, for the first time, allowed direct targeting of the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis (CF), the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Patients treated with CFTR modulators have improvement in lung function and decreased rates of pulmonary exacerbations. In 2019, elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor was approved for use in the United States, opening these therapies to 90% of patients with CF. Intolerable adverse drug reactions to CFTR modulators results in discontinuation of therapy, which can be devastating to our patients. We describe our approach to two cases, not previously reported, of rash to elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor in patients with a previous history of cutaneous adverse reactions to dual modulator therapy that had been addressed by desensitization. Case 1 was able to tolerate elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor after desensitization to the triple combination therapy, while in Case 2 tolerance was obtained by treating through the reaction. The loss of tolerance in these patients was unexpected, and may be a common finding in patients with history of cutaneous adverse reactions to these drugs. We hope reporting our experience, including our desensitization protocol, may benefit CF patients for whom these drug reactions may be limiting access to powerful disease altering therapies.
Intra‐ and cross‐field dispersal of Beckmannia syzigachne seed by a combine harvester
Authors: Qu Xiang , Zhang Zheng , Gao Pinglei , Chen Wansong , Qiang Sheng
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Beckmannia syzigachne (Steud.) Fernald has become a dominant weed that has evolved resistance to major herbicides used in the wheat fields of rice‐wheat double cropping areas of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, China. Seed dispersal occurs over long distances via irrigation water. As mechanical harvesting services popularize, there is concern that combine harvesters could play an increasing role in B. syzigachne seed dispersal.

RESULTS

Random sampling of 30 combine harvesters at wheat harvest determined that an average of 8000 B. syzigachne seeds remain in the combine after wheat harvesting, predominantly on the metal plate. These seeds could potentially be transported into adjacent fields. A double exponential model predicted that seeds remaining on the metal plate could be dispersed over 7885 m2 into the next field. Within a field, the number of fallen seeds and their dispersal distance were positively correlated to panicle density. Combines spread seeds away from the source potentially creating new weed patches. During irrigation and rotary tillage ploughing, 70% of B. syzigachne seeds scattered in the field floated on the water surface and were moved away by the wind.

CONCLUSION

Both wheat combine harvesters and water flow effectively spread B. syzigachne seeds. Areas with high B. syzigachne population density should be carefully harvested separately, and the metal plate should be carefully cleaned to prevent spreading the weed across fields and region. Floating B. syzigachne seeds displaced to field edges by water can be physically removed with nets to prevent further distribution by water.
Migrant mothers, rejected refugees and excluded belonging in Hong Kong
Authors: Constable Nicole
Published: April 2021

Building on ethnographic research and on studies of noncitizenship, this paper examines ‘excluded belonging’, a condition that is constructed over time, through a process of interactions between noncitizens and migratory assemblages. Noncitizens respond to the shifting parameters of inclusion and exclusion in their everyday lives in their attempts to construct a substantive sense of belonging that is often fleeting, fragile and ever challenged. Maintaining this condition entails work, learning, struggles and strategising by noncitizens within spaces of exclusion and with institutional actors who deny them rights and also assist them. Ethnographic research in Hong Kong (2010–2018), among women migrant workers whose pathways shift as they become mothers, overstayers, nonrefoulement (asylum) claimants and rejected refugees, illustrates the lived paradox of excluded belonging, as illustrated by the challenges they face in relation to acquiring food, shelter and children's education while facing increasing migratory exclusion and the growing threat of deportation.
The effect of evening primrose oil on labor induction and cervical ripening: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Moradi Maryam , Niazi Azin , Heydarian Miri Hamid , Lopez Violeta
Published: April 2021

The evening primrose oil has prostaglandin effects and is applied to soften the cervix. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to establish the results of clinical trials performed on the effect of evening primrose oil on labor induction and cervical ripening in pregnant women. Research studies were searched from 1990 to September 2019 in Pubmed, Science Direct, Embase, and Cochrane Library using the keywords: cervical ripening, Bishop score, labor induction, post‐term pregnancy, evening primrose, and any possible combination of these keywords (Farsi, English). Data analysis was conducted using STATA (version 14.1), and I2 index and random effect forest plots to assess the heterogeneity between the studies and perform the meta‐analysis, respectively. Six articles that met the inclusion criteria were extracted in which four were entered into quantitative meta‐analysis. The results' high heterogeneity was 91.4% based on I2 index (p ≤ .001) and the random model was applied for meta‐analysis. The result demonstrated no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of mean difference of the Bishop score before and after intervention (SMD: 0.27, 95%CI: −0.41, 0.96, p = .43). Based on current meta‐analysis on four studies, effectiveness of oral consumption of evening primrose on cervical ripening was not approved.
Study on Diversified Carbide Precipitation in High‐Strength Low‐Alloy Steel during Tempering
Authors: Zhao Wei , Zhou Hongwei , Fang Liangwei , Bai Fengmei , Yi Hailong , Ali Naqash , Zhang Liqiang , Zhen Guangwen
Published: April 2021

Herein, the precipitation and mechanical properties of high‐strength low‐alloy steel (Q960E) under different tempering temperatures from 560 to 640 °C are investigated. Diversified precipitations (including MC, M3C, M23C6, and M7C3) are formed during tempering. The size of the M3C, M23C6, and M7C3 precipitates increases, as the temperature increases, and the precipitates are gradually spheroidized with an average size of less than 100 nm. MC‐type precipitates (where M = Nb and Ti) are produced at different tempering temperatures. When tempered at 600 °C, Q960E steel exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including a high strength and elongation with a good impact performance. At 600 °C, a large number of fine MC carbides with an average size of less than 25 nm are formed. MC and matrix exhibit the Baker–Nutting orientation relationship. Edge dislocations exist in the transition region between the MC nanophase and the matrix. These dislocations reduce the mismatch degree between the MC nanophase and the matrix and promote MC nucleation. Meanwhile, the steel retains many low‐angle grain boundaries when tempered at 600 °C, which is beneficial to its high strength.
Method to Investigate Mechanical Behavior of Steel Casting near Solidus Temperature
Authors: Lu Yanru , Bartlett Laura N. , O’Malley Ronald J. , Lekakh Simon N.
Published: April 2021

Hot crack formation in continuously cast steel is significantly influenced by the mechanical properties of the solid shell near its solidus temperature. Herein, a new method to study the high‐temperature mechanical behavior of the solidifying steel shell is introduced. In this method, an apparatus is designed utilizing an electric cylinder that is controlled by a servomotor to apply a specified amount of strain to the solidifying steel shell at a controlled strain rate. A special mold configuration is developed to control the dendrite growth in the direction perpendicular to the applied strain and to ensure that the strain is applied in the region of controlled shell growth. Real‐time load, displacement, and temperature data are monitored by a computer‐assisted data acquisition system. The temperature profile of the casting is predicted by MAGMASOFT and compared with experimental data. The Fourier thermal analysis method is applied to calculate a solid fraction and coupled with the temperature profile to determine the solid shell thickness during the test. The maximum strength at different temperatures for a medium‐carbon steel is determined and compared with that from the submerged split‐chill tensile test and hot tensile tests.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00184 facilitates the proliferation, metastasis, and adenine metabolism of cholangiocarcinoma via modulating hsa‐miR‐23b‐3p/ANXA2 axis
Authors: Sun Hou‐Bin , Zhang Guang‐Chen , Liu Jia , Nie Chun‐Sheng
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this article was to probe the mechanism underlying long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)‐LINC00184 in cholangiocarcinoma development and to investigate the effects of LINC00184 on cholangiocarcinoma. We used bioinformatics to analyze the expression of LINC00184, microRNA (miR)‐23b‐3p and ANXA2 in cholangiocarcinoma tissues. The levels of LINC00184, miR‐23b‐3p, and ANXA2 were detected by qRT‐PCR. Cell proliferation was tested by CCK8. Transwell assay was used to detect cell invasion and migration. The target connection between LINC00184, miR‐23b‐3p, or ANXA2 was probed by luciferase reporter assay. RNA pull‐down method was employed to test the relationship among LINC00184/miR‐23b‐3p/ANXA2 in cholangiocarcinoma cells. The Pearson correlation coefficient analyzed was applied to analyze the correlation among LINC00184, miR‐23b‐3p, and ANXA2. LC–MS/M analysis was used to explore whether the changes of adenine metabolism was affected by LINC00184 in cholangiocarcinoma cells. We discovered that LINC00184 expression was heightened in cholangiocarcinoma patients and cells. Knockdown of LINC00184 repressed cell proliferation, invasion, migration and adenine metabolism in cholangiocarcinoma cells. miR‐23b‐3p was regarded as a target of LINC00184 and its depletion perversed the inhibitive influence of LINC00184 silencing on cholangiocarcinoma cells. ANXA2 was a target of miR‐23b‐3p and was negatively modulated by miR‐23b‐3p. Moreover, ANXA2 was positively modulated by LINC00184 via sponging miR‐23b‐3p. In short, silencing of LINC00184 suppressed cell proliferation, invasion and migration through over‐expression of miR‐23b‐3p and reducing of ANXA2 in cholangiocarcinoma cells. These findings contribute to understanding the influences of LINC00184, miR‐23b‐3p, and ANXA2 on cholangiocarcinoma and provide basis for cholangiocarcinoma treatment.
The Vanishing Ethics of Husbandry
Authors: Thompson Paul B.
Published: April 2021

The ethics of food production should include philosophical discussion of the condition or welfare of livestock, including for animals being raised in high volume, concentrated production systems (e.g. factory farms). Philosophers should aid producers and scientists in specifying conditions for improved welfare in these systems. An adequately non-ideal approach to this problem should recognize both the economic rationale for these systems as well as the way that they constrain opportunities for improving animal welfare. Recent philosophical work on animal ethics has been dominated by authors who not only neglect this imperative, but also defeat it by drawing on oversimplified and rhetorically overstated descriptions of the conditions in which factory farmed animals actually live. This feature of philosophical animal ethics reflects a form of structural narcissism in which adopting a morally correct attitude defeats actions that could actually improve the welfare of livestock in factory farms to a considerable degree.
Wild Animals in the City: Considering and Connecting with Animals in Zoos and Aquariums
Authors: Brando Sabrina , Herrelko Elizabeth S.
Published: April 2021

Connecting people with nature is a powerful concept that opens doors for relationship building and conservation messaging. The roles of wild animals in the city (e.g., in zoos and aquariums) and how we interact with them—and vice versa—must evolve along with our theoretical discussions and animal management practices in order to advance the field. While taking into consideration the long history of animals in captivity, where we are today, and were we should go in the future, this chapter reviews animal welfare and its ethical frameworks, human-animal interactions and its effect on both animals and people, wildness in zoos and how we perceive different states of origin, compassionate education programs and their efforts to instil empathy and empower people to become agents of change, and the power of modern technology in providing real connections with artificial means. In this ever-changing world, living responsibly together has never been more important.
Animal Conservation in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Jansman Hugh A. H.
Published: April 2021

Biodiversity on Earth is rapidly decreasing and the situation in the Netherlands is in that perspective a textbook example. The main causes for species extinction are habitat loss, landscape degradation and overuse. Conservation efforts should focus more on the level of viable ecosystems. A strategic plan to do so is called Cores, Corridors and Carnivores (rewilding’s three C’s). This requires strong Cores of nature, mutually connected via robust Corridors. Based on island biogeography theory it can be calculated that if we want to conserve roughly 85% of the current biodiversity, 50% of the Earth’s surface needs to be protected, ‘Nature needs half’. For healthy ecosystems we need to get top-down forcing by apex consumers back in ecosystems. These apex consumers are mainly large Carnivores, and bringing them back asks for coexistence. If we want to keep our living conditions on planet Earth healthy we have to change our unsustainable way of living and change our way of thinking with respect to nature, natural processes and our relation with other species. The loss of biodiversity can only be halted or reversed if we save more space for nature and natural processes including top-down forcing and last but not least, find a way of coexistence with our fellow creatures.
Consolations of Environmental Philosophy
Authors: Tokarski Mateusz
Published: April 2021

Due to successful protection and restoration efforts, humans and wild animals more and more often come to inhabit overlapping spaces. This is often experienced by humans as problematic, as animals may cause material damages to property and pose threats to humans and domesticated animals. These threats, as well as normative beliefs about belonging and culturally-based prejudices, often provoke distress or aggression towards animals. While philosophy has so far provided normative guidance as to what we should do in terms of developing proper relationships, the actual tools designed to facilitate the development of more peaceful cohabitation have been provided mostly by wildlife management and social sciences. In this contribution, I propose that environmental philosophy can provide conceptual tools easing the difficulties of cohabitation. One such tool is the practice of consolation. I begin by drawing a distinction between the contemporary and traditional forms of consolation. I further show that several common ethical arguments concerning cohabitation with wildlife can be seen as following the ancient concept of consolation. I close with some practical remarks regarding how environmental consolation could be practiced today in the context of difficult cohabitation with wildlife.
Does Justice Require De-extinction of the Heath Hen?
Authors: Welchman Jennifer
Published: April 2021

It is often argued that we “owe it” to species driven to extinction “to bring them back.” Can justice really require us to make restitution for anthropogenic extinctions? Can it require de-extinction? And if so, can justice require us to attempt the North American Heath Hen’s de-extinction? I will first review the types of de-extinction technologies currently available. I will then discuss the criteria used to determine when restitution is owed for injuries as well as the special challenges arising when (i) victims are wild animals and (ii) are extinct. After arguing that restitution may be due for some extinctions and that de-extinction would sometimes be an appropriate means, I apply these arguments to the case of the Heath Hen.
The Future of Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Sustainable Vehicles in the UK
Authors: Last Greg , Agbro David E. , Asthana Abhishek
Published: April 2021

This paper details the development of the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and its integration into the UK market. The aim of this research was to explore the benefits and limitations of the HEV system which there are many. Government policies and incentives; both current and future as well as HEV technologies are also summarised. The HEV is an excellent short to medium term solution for making travel more sustainable. However, in the long term, push for electric vehicles (EVs) will significantly increase from the Government in its aim to meet stringent emissions policies and there will likely be legislation to phase out HEVs that cannot be plugged in.
Is There More Than the Answer to the Question? Device Use and Completion Time as Indicators for Selectivity Bias and Response Convenience in Online Surveys
Authors: Décieux Jean Philippe
Published: April 2021

The main objective of the German Emigration and Remigration Panel Study (GERPS) is to establish a longitudinal data set that provides information on life trajectories of international migrants. However, a large amount of paradata were also collected in order to obtain meta-information on respondents’ survey participation. This auxiliary information can help to optimize data quality at all stages of the survey process. By continuing the existing discussion in the field of online surveys, this chapter pursues a twofold objective: it reflects device usage (mobile vs. computer) and elucidates determinants of device choice. In particular, it analyses whether selectivity effects due to respondent’s device choices bias the sample. Moreover, this chapter investigates differences in response time between devices to detect differences in response burden. The analysis of response burden differences by device is an important issue, since an increased device-specific response burden can be a predictor of actual and further panel dropouts. In both device-specific selectivity and survey burden, only slight differences were found between mobile and desktop devices. Using these data, the following paper addresses the need to analyse potential sources of survey error and provides evidence that GERPS data do not appear to contain noteworthy bias attributed to device usage.