bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate and environmental history at Lake Levinson‐Lessing, Taymyr Peninsula, during the last 62 kyr
Authors: Lenz Matthias , Lenz Marlene M. , Andreev Andrei , Scheidt Stephanie , Gromig Raphael , Lebas Elodie , Fedorov Grigory , Krastel Sebastian , Melles Martin , Wagner Bernd
Published: October 2021

The 45.95 m‐long sediment succession shown in core Co1401 from Lake Levinson‐Lessing allows the reconstruction of the largely unexplored environmental and climatic history of the Taymyr Peninsula of the past 62 kyr. The core was analysed with a multidisciplinary approach including lithological, granulometric, geochemical and pollen analyses. The proxy data indicate a relatively stable, herb‐dominated environment with only subtle changes between a cold/wet late Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4 and early MIS 3, mild/dry middle and late MIS 3 and a cold/dry MIS 2. The absence of pronounced climate fluctuations demonstrates that the Lake Levinson‐Lessing catchment was not covered by an ice sheet during this period. Changes in precipitation were likely caused by waxing and waning of the large Eurasian ice sheets outside of the Taymyr Peninsula, which changed the eastward moisture transport and atmospheric circulation patterns. MIS 1 at Lake Levinson‐Lessing was associated with overall warmer and wetter conditions and short‐term climate fluctuations during the Bølling–Allerød warming, Younger Dryas cooling and Preboreal transition, which indicates the influence of North Atlantic air masses.
Analysis of polysomnogram findings in children with concurrent obstructive and central sleep apnea
Authors: Hwang Chaewon , Ramagopal Maya , Kwong Kelvin
Published: October 2021

Objective

Increasing evidence suggests overlap in mechanisms of obstructive and central sleep apnea. Our objective was to compare the patient characteristics and polysomnographic findings of children with concurrent obstructive and central sleep apnea (obstructive sleep apnea + central sleep apnea [OSA + CSA]), to those with OSA only.

Methods

A retrospective case series of polysomnogram (PSG) from 30 June 2013 to 30 June 2018 of patients 18 years and younger was performed. PSG parameters were analyzed per standard protocol. There were two groups, OSA only group and OSA + CSA group. OSA + CSA was subdivided into groups of central apnea index (CAI) ≤5, and CAI >5. Differences in the age, sex, body mass index (BMI) percentile, prevalence of medical conditions, and PSG parameters between OSA only and OSA + CSA were assessed for statistical significance.

Results

The mean age of the OSA only group was 8.2 years, significantly higher than that of the OSA + CSA group, 5.0 years, P < .00001. The proportion of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese patients according to BMI percentiles was not statistically significantly different between the two groups, P > .05. Most common comorbidity in the two groups was pulmonary conditions, which included asthma. Of the PSG parameters, arousals due to respiratory events and obstructive apnea hypopnea index of all OSA + CSA groups were significantly higher than those of the OSA only group, P < .05. Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was significantly higher in total OSA + CSA group and OSA + CSA subgroup with CAI ≤5, P < .05, compared to OSA only.

Conclusion

Children with concurrent OSA + CSA are younger, but there appears to be no difference in BMI percentiles between OSA only and OSA + CSA. Compared to OSA only group, children with concurrent OSA + CSA have significantly different sleep architecture—higher REM %—and experience significantly higher respiratory arousals and obstructive events, especially in the subgroup with CAI >5. There appears to be overlap in mechanisms of CSA and OSA in this cohort.

Level of Evidence

4.
Electrochemical noise studies on complex galvanic corrosion of submarine cable armor layer in artificial seawater
Authors: Guo Rui , Yang Peng , Mao Feixiong , Li Jinlong , Chen Lei , Yu Guojun , Macdonald Digby
Published: October 2021

This paper aims at studying the complex galvanic corrosion of galvanized steel/red copper of submarine cable armor layer in simulated seawater environments. The variation of the galvanic corrosion rate of the cable armor layer as a function of time under different environmental factors (pH, [Cl−], dissolved oxygen, etc.) has been explored. The surface morphology of the galvanized steel after galvanic corrosion was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that galvanized steel and red copper are susceptible to galvanic corrosion when ohmically coupled in NaCl solution. Red copper, with the more positive electromotive potential, acts as the cathode in the galvanized steel/red copper galvanic couple and accelerates the corrosion of the galvanized steel. The galvanic effect of red copper on galvanized steel in NaCl solution increases with the increasing [H+] and dissolved oxygen. However, with increasing [Cl−], the galvanic effect of red copper on galvanized steel initially increases but then decreases, resulting in a maximum in the corrosion rate.
Resveratrol Improves Follicular Development of PCOS Rats by Regulating the Glycolytic Pathway
Authors: Liang Aihong , Huang Lan'e , Liu Huiqing , He Weiguo , Lei Xiaocan , Li Meixiang , Li Suyun , Liang Hongxing , Chen Gang , Tang Jinru , Chen Fengyu , Cao Xiting , Wang Yiyao , Shen Xiaobu , Chen Xi
Published: October 2021

Scope

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder that can cause infertility; however, the underlying mechanisms remain ill‐defined, and there are no available drugs or strategies for the treatment of PCOS. This study examined the therapeutic effect of resveratrol in a rat model of PCOS.

Methods and Results

PCOS is induced in rats by administration of letrozole and a high fat diet to determine whether resveratrol has a protective effect. Oral administration of resveratrol significantly decreased body weight, as well as the serum levels of testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone. Resveratrol improved the estrous cycle by restoring the thickness and number of granular cells. Resveratrol increased the levels of lactate and ATP, decreased pyruvate levels, and restored the glycolytic process, upregulating LDHA, HK2, and PKM2. Resveratrol also upregulated SIRT2, thereby modulating the expression of rate‐limiting enzymes of glycolysis.

Conclusion

Resveratrol suppressed damage to the ovaries in PCOS rats by restoring glycolytic activity, providing potential targets for the treatment of PCOS.
Recent advances in Ni‐Fe (Oxy)hydroxide electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte targeting industrial applications
Authors: Yu Zheyin , Bai Ying , Tsekouras George , Cheng Zhenxiang
Published: October 2021

Due to its high gravimetric energy density, abundance, wide applicability, and potential to be a zero‐carbon emission energy carrier, hydrogen is considered to be highly important for future sustainability. Currently, 96% of hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels, with relatively low purity and high associated CO2 emissions. Only 4% of hydrogen is produced by water electrolysis with high purity mainly due to the inefficiency of oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Therefore developing high performance OER electrocatalysts for water electrolysis powered by renewables is an urgent and crucial task for long‐term sustainability. Recently, low‐cost Ni‐Fe (oxy)hydroxides have demonstrated high OER activities and great potentials for hydrogen production through water electrolysis. This review commences with discussion of the mechanism of the OER and OER evaluation criteria. This is followed by a brief history of Ni‐Fe (oxy)hydroxides. Most importantly, the recent development of Ni‐Fe (oxy)hydroxide OER electrocatalysts in terms of material design, synthesis methods, morphology, and electrochemical performance, is comprehensively reviewed. In addition, in‐situ techniques for the characterization of Ni‐Fe (oxy)hydroxide OER electrocatalysts are introduced. Finally, strategies for the rational design of improved Ni‐Fe (oxy)hydroxide OER electrocatalysts for industrial water electrolysis are also discussed.
Pediatric malnutrition screening and assessment tools: Analyzing the gaps
Authors: Becker Patricia J. , Brunet‐Wood M. Kim
Published: October 2021

Pediatric healthcare professionals know that children who are malnourished have worse clinical outcomes than do their well‐nourished peers. The body of evidence in the literature on the topic of pediatric malnutrition (PMN) is growing and supports this conclusion. The goal of this article is to present the current state of practice related to PMN screening, the use of malnutrition risk screening (MNRS) tools, malnutrition assessment, and the use of malnutrition assessment tools. The purpose is also to discuss best practice for MNRS and assessment and to consider the gaps in practice where additional work is needed.
Nursing students’ experiences of applying problem‐based learning to train the core competence teamwork and collaboration: An interview study
Authors: Allert Camilla , Dellkvist Helén , Hjelm Markus , Andersson Ewa K.
Published: October 2021

Aim

To explore nursing students’ experiences of applying problem‐based learning to train the core competence teamwork and collaboration.

Design

The study used a qualitative descriptive design.

Method

The data were collected using individual interviews with a purposive sample of 11 students and analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

The students’ experiences of applying problem‐based learning to train the core competence teamwork and collaboration were described in two generic categories: prerequisites to train teamwork and collaboration and abilities practised in the base group. The generic category “prerequisites to train teamwork and collaboration” includes three subcategories: previous experience and education, composition of the base group, and common goals and values in the base group. The generic category “abilities practised in the base group” includes four subcategories: taking personal responsibility, practising role distribution and leadership, developing communication skills and creating togetherness in the base group.
Psychological and environmental empirics of crimes in Pakistan
Authors: Yasmin Sadia , Hassan Muhammad Shahid , Arshed Noman , Tahir Muhammad Naveed
Published: October 2021

Literature provides rich evidence of the role of economic development, environmental quality, and psychological stress' prevalence on the deployment of human efforts in criminal activities. This study explores the role of HDI, CO2, and Prevalence of Depression against total, violent, and nonviolent crimes in Pakistan between 1990 and 2017. Analysis based on ARDL bounds testing model which proposes that human development, environment quality, and sound mind leads to a decrease in the involvement in criminal activities. The intensity of effects is different for total, violent, and nonviolent crime rates. Government should focus on development expenditures coupled with improving the quality of the environment and mind.
Ammonium polyphosphate surface‐modified with l‐lysine as an intumescent flame retardant for epoxy resin
Authors: Cheng Chen , Lu Yanling , Cai Junfeng , Yan Jun , Li Shaojie , Du Shiguo
Published: October 2021

To improve the flame retardance and compatibility of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) via an environmentally friendly method, l‐lysine (Lys), a bio‐based amino acid, was selected as the surface‐modifier for APP in this work. Lys‐modified APP (L‐APP) was prepared through the cation exchange reaction, and its morphology and chemical composition were characterized comprehensively. The characterization results demonstrated the fabrication of Lys shell structure on the surface of APP. Additionally, the thermogravimetric analysis illustrated that the char‐forming ability of APP was significantly improved by the Lys shell structure. The flame retardance of APP and L‐APP on epoxy resin (EP) was evaluated by the limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning (UL‐94), and cone calorimeter tests (CCT). The results showed that EP blending with 15 wt% L‐APP (EP/L‐APP15) passed V‐0 rating, and got an LOI value of 31.7%. In the CCT, compared to the pristine EP, the peak heat release rate and total smoke production of EP/L‐APP15 were decreased by 77.6% and 47.1%, respectively. It was confirmed that the good flame retardance and smoke suppression performance of L‐APP can be attributed to the phosphorus‐containing intumescent char residuals formed during combustion process. The tensile strain tests were conducted to assess the mechanical properties of EP composites. The results demonstrated that compared to pristine APP, L‐APP possessed weakened impact on the tensile strain property of EP, which was beneficial to the practical application.
Immune cell infiltrates and prognosis in localized prostate cancer†
Authors: Sfanos Karen S
Published: October 2021

Multiple lines of evidence indicate that quantification of immune cell infiltrates in primary prostate cancer can predict outcomes after radical prostatectomy, including biochemical recurrence, metastasis, and death from prostate cancer. In a recent issue of The Journal of Pathology, Andersen et al explored the predictive value of cancer tissue infiltration of seven immune cell types (mast cells, M1 macrophages, M2 macrophages, B cells, T helper cells, cytotoxic T cells, and regulatory T cells) in association with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy. In addition to reporting a potential association between cancer‐infiltrating regulatory T cells and M1 and M2 macrophages and biochemical recurrence, the study also highlighted the use of multiplex digital pathology analyses to assess adverse predictors of prostate cancer outcomes. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Allergies, genetic polymorphisms of Th2 interleukins, and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: The ESTELLE study
Authors: Ajrouche Roula , Chandab Ghinaj , Petit Arnaud , Strullu Marion , Nelken Brigitte , Plat Geneviève , Michel Gérard , Domenech Carine , Clavel Jacqueline , Bonaventure Audrey
Published: October 2021

Context

A negative association between a history of allergy and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has been reported in previous studies, but remains debated. This work aimed to investigate this association accounting for genetic polymorphisms of the Th2 pathway cytokines (IL4, IL10, IL13, and IL4R).

Methods

Analyses were based on the French case‐control study ESTELLE (2010‐2011). The complete sample included 629 ALL cases and 1421 population‐based controls frequency‐matched on age and gender. The child's medical history was collected through standardized maternal interview. Biological samples were collected, and genotyping data were available for 411 cases and 704 controls of European origin. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated using unconditional regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

In the complete sample, a significant inverse association was observed between ALL and reported history of allergic rhinitis or sinusitis (OR = 0.65 [0.42‐0.98]; P = 0.04), but there was no obvious association with allergies overall. There was an interaction between genetic polymorphisms in IL4 and IL4R (Pinteraction = 0.003), as well as a gene‐environment interaction between IL4R‐rs1801275 and a reported history of asthma (IOR = 0.23; Pint = 0.008) and eczema (IOR = 0.47; Pint = 0.06). We observed no interaction with the candidate polymorphisms in IL4 and IL13.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the association between allergic symptoms and childhood ALL could be modified by IL4R‐rs1801275, and that this variant could also interact with a functional variant in IL4 gene. Although they warrant confirmation, these results could help understand the pathological mechanisms under the reported inverse association between allergy and childhood ALL.
Preparation of flexible and magnetic PA6/SEBS‐MA nanocomposites reinforced with Ni‐Zn ferrite
Authors: Luna Carlos Bruno Barreto , da Silva Adriano Lima , Siqueira Danilo Diniz , dos Santos Filho Edson Antonio , Araújo Edcleide Maria , do Nascimento Emanuel Pereira , de Melo Costa Ana Cristina Figueiredo
Published: October 2021

Magnetic and flexible nanocomposites of polyamide 6 (PA6)/styrene‐(ethylene‐butylene)‐styrene grafted with maleic anhydride (SEBS‐MA) were prepared using Ni‐Zn ferrite synthesized by combustion reaction. Thermal treatment was applied to the Ni‐Zn ferrite to form a more crystalline phase. The nanocomposites were processed in an internal mixer and later injection molded. The materials were characterized by torque rheometry, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Izod impact strength, tensile strength, magnetic measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), heat deflection temperature (HDT), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ferrite calcination led to a higher degree of crystallinity and nanocomposites with a higher number of crystalline peaks. This favored a higher saturation magnetization. The magnetic hysteresis curves of the nanocomposites indicated a ferrimagnetic behavior. The impact strength and elongation at break increased significantly compared to neat PA6, suggesting the formation of flexible and magnetic nanocomposites. This behavior was ascribed to a chemical reaction between the terminal amine groups of PA6 and the maleic anhydride of SEBS‐MA, confirmed by FTIR and torque rheometry. Neat PA6 and the nanocomposites showed similar thermogravimetric, HDT, melting temperature, and crystallization properties. SEM results showed that the dispersed ferrite tends to form agglomerates, especially if calcined. In general, the addition of the non‐calcined Ni‐Zn ferrite to the PA6 matrix improved the mechanical properties. Conversely, the calcination of ferrite tended to improve the magnetic behavior of the nanocomposites.
One‐stepfabrication of bulk nanocomposites reinforced by carbon nanotube array fragments
Authors: Aly Karim , Aboubakr Sherif H. , Bradford Philip D.
Published: October 2021

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) array growth is an established process where high aspect ratio carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are produced. This work demonstrates one‐step approach to fabricate bulk polymer nanocomposites using CNT array fragments'. Here, 4.5 mm long CNTs were collected post VACNTs synthesis. Next, CNT array fragments were coated with pyrolytic carbon (PyC) and infused with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix to create porous CNT/PDMS nanocomposite with a CNT weight fraction of 20%. Achieving similar weight fraction with super long bundled CNTs using dispersion techniques is extremely difficult. The compression and dynamic mechanical behaviors and piezoresistive response of the PDMS filled nanocomposite were assessed. The results revealed the potential of the synthesized structure to serve as fatigue‐resistant pressure sensors with high damping and self‐sensing capabilities. The proposed fabrication technique is versatile, as it can work with thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers in addition to allowing for mass production of PDMS filled nanocomposites.
Impact of argon flow and pressure on the trapping behavior of nanoparticles inside a gas aggregation source
Authors: Drewes Jonas , Ali‐Ogly Suren , Strunskus Thomas , Polonskyi Oleksandr , Biederman Hynek , Faupel Franz , Vahl Alexander
Published: October 2021

In this study, in situ UV–Vis spectroscopy is used to investigate the growth and transport of nanoparticles inside a gas aggregation source (GAS) dependent on the Ar gas flow and operating pressure. It was found that the nanoparticles were becoming trapped at different positions inside the GAS dependent on the gas flow. Moreover, in situ UV–Vis spectroscopy suggested the presence of large nanoparticles inside the GAS, which were not observed outside. Computational fluid dynamic simulations were performed to study the velocity distribution inside the GAS. Three distinct areas were identified, where nanoparticles can become trapped or lost. The gas flow velocity distribution was found to strongly impact the transport of nanoparticles.
A Modelling Approach for the Analysis of Underwater Explosive Performance Trials
Authors: Milne Andrew G. , Milne Alec M. , Burn Andrew , Carr Andrew , Thomson Murray
Published: October 2021

We present here a coupled experimental and numerical modelling study to compare the underwater performance of different explosive charge types in simple geometries with a view to having confidence in the use of these models in the design of more complex warheads. Numerical modelling is used to predict the shock and bubble performance of underwater detonated charges and is intended to be used for comparison of the performance of different charge compositions. Model predictions are compared to experimental data from the underwater detonation of 1 kg cylindrical charges. It is shown that a simple 1D spherical geometry Eulerian hydrocode solution is suitable for comparison of the performance of different charge types provided that gauges are located on the radial axis of the charge and located a sufficient distance from the charge. Predictions using our chosen explosive models are shown to accurately capture the shock and bubble performance of ideal and non‐ideal charges tested and the effects of charge casing so that these models can be used in more complex warhead design studies at a later date.
Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry Study of a Eutectic Mixture of bis(2,2‐Dinitropropyl) Acetal/Formal
Authors: Wong Camille Hing , Edgar Alexander Steven , Yang Dali
Published: October 2021

This study is the first attempt to document methodology development undergone using liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (LC‐QTOF) to investigate degradation products of eutectic bis(2,2‐dinitropropyl) acetal/formal nitroplasticizer (called NP here). Method properties investigated are: desolvation temperature (°C) and spray voltage (V) of the electrospray ionization source, and the development of an acetone system rinse to prevent any residual contamination between sample injections. Details are given on why it is essential to investigate method optimization with changes shown in MS/MS analysis in addition to MS results. Trends in MS/MS analytic results reveal important relationships between baseline and aged materials. In addition to verification of previously proposed fragments, insights offered by this newly developed methodology will also identify new degradation products and shed light on the complexity of NP degradation chemistry.
Cancer‐specific survival after radical prostatectomy versus external beam radiotherapy in high‐risk and very high‐risk African American prostate cancer patients
Authors: Hoeh Benedikt , Würnschimmel Christoph , Flammia Rocco S. , Horlemann Benedikt , Sorce Gabriele , Chierigo Francesco , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Graefen Markus , Gallucci Michele , Briganti Alberto , Terrone Carlo , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Kluth Luis A. , Mandel Philipp , Chun Felix K. H. , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: October 2021

Background

To test for differences in cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) rates between radical prostatectomy (RP) vs external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) in National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) high‐risk African American patients, as well as Johns Hopkins University (JHU) high‐risk and very high‐risk patients.

Materials and methods

Within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2010–2016), we identified 4165 NCCN high‐risk patients, of whom 1944 (46.7%) and 2221 (53.3%) patients qualified for JHU high‐risk or very high‐risk definitions. Of all 4165 patients, 1390 (33.5%) were treated with RP versus 2775 (66.6%) with EBRT. Cumulative incidence plots and competing risks regression models addressed CSM before and after 1:1 propensity score matching between RP and EBRT NCCN high‐risk patients. Subsequently, analyses were repeated separately in JHU high‐risk and very high‐risk subgroups. Finally, all analyses were repeated after landmark analyses were applied.

Results

In the NCCN high‐risk cohort, 5‐year CSM rates for RP versus EBRT were 2.4 versus 5.2%, yielding a multivariable hazard ratio of 0.50 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30–0.84, p = 0.009) favoring RP. In JHU very high‐risk patients 5‐year CSM rates for RP versus EBRT were 3.7 versus 8.4%, respectively, yielding a multivariable hazard ratio of 0.51 (95% CI: 0.28–0.95, p = 0.03) favoring RP. Conversely, in JHU high‐risk patients, no significant CSM difference was recorded between RP vs EBRT (5‐year CSM rates: 1.3 vs 1.3%; multivariable hazard ratio: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.16–1.90, p = 0.3). Observations were confirmed in propensity score‐matched and landmark analyses adjusted cohorts.

Conclusions

In JHU very high‐risk African American patients, RP may hold a CSM advantage over EBRT, but not in JHU high‐risk African American patients.
Androgen receptor negatively regulates mitotic checkpoint signaling to induce docetaxel resistance in castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Pilling Amanda , Kim Sahn‐Ho , Hwang Clara
Published: October 2021

Background

Despite multiple treatment advances for castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), there are currently no curative therapies and patients ultimately to succumb to the disease. Docetaxel (DTX) is the standard first‐line chemotherapy for patients with metastatic CRPC; however, drug resistance is inevitable and often develops rapidly, leading to disease progression in nearly all patients. In contrast, when DTX is deployed with androgen deprivation therapy in castration‐sensitive disease, more durable responses and improved outcomes are observed, suggesting that aberrant androgen receptor (AR) signaling accelerates DTX resistance in CRPC. In this study, we demonstrate that AR dysregulates the mitotic checkpoint, a critical pathway involved in the anticancer action of DTX.

Methods

Androgen‐dependent and independent cell lines were used to evaluate the role of AR in DTX resistance. Impact of drug treatment on cell viability, survival, and cell‐cycle distribution were determined by plate‐based viability assay, clonogenic assay, and cell‐cycle analysis by flow cytometry, respectively. Mitotic checkpoint kinase signal transduction and apoptosis activation was evaluated by Western blotting. Pathway gene expression analysis was evaluated by RT‐PCR. A Bliss independence model was used to calculate synergy scores for drug combination studies.

Results

Activation of AR in hormone‐sensitive cells induces a rescue phenotype by increasing cell viability and survival and attenuating G2/M arrest in response to DTX. Analysis of mitotic checkpoint signaling shows that AR negatively regulates spindle checkpoint signaling, resulting in premature mitotic progression and evasion of apoptosis. This phenotype is characteristic of mitotic slippage and is also observed in CRPC cell lines where we demonstrate involvement of AR splice variant AR‐v7 in dysregulation of checkpoint signaling. Our findings suggest that DTX resistance is mediated through mechanisms that drive premature mitotic exit. Using pharmacologic inhibitors of anaphase‐promoting complex/cyclosome and polo‐like kinase 1, we show that blocking mitotic exit induces mitotic arrest, apoptosis, and synergistically inhibits cell survival in combination with DTX.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that targeting the mechanisms of dysregulated mitotic checkpoint signaling in AR‐reactivated tumors has significant clinical potential to extend treatment benefit with DTX and improve outcomes in patients with lethal prostate cancer.
Spatial and temporal patterns of prostate cancer burden and their association with Socio‐Demographic Index in Asia, 1990–2019
Authors: Luo Li‐Sha , Jiang Jun‐Feng , Luan Hang‐Hang , Zi Hao , Zhu Cong , Li Bing‐Hui , Zeng Xian‐Tao
Published: October 2021

Background

Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer for males worldwide, but the spatial and temporal trends of prostate cancer burden remain unknown in Asia. This study aimed to investigate the changing spatial and temporal trends of incidence, prevalence, mortality, disability‐adjusted life year (DALY), and mortality‐to‐incidence ratio (MIR) of prostate cancer, and their association with the Socio‐Demographic Index (SDI) in 48 Asian countries from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Global Health Data Exchange query tool, covering 48 Asian countries from 1990 to 2019. The average annual percent change was calculated to evaluate temporal trends. Spatial autocorrelation analysis was used to obtain spatial patterns, and the association between SDI and prostate cancer burden was estimated using a spatial panel model.

Results

In Asia, the age‐standardized incidence and prevalence of prostate cancer increased in almost all countries, and its mortality and DALY also increased in over half of the countries. Significantly regional disparities were found in Asia, and the hot spots for incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALY were all located in Western Asia, the hot spots of percent change also occurred in Western Asia for incidence and DALY. Furthermore, SDI had a positive association with mortality (coef = 2.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.13–2.90) and negative association with DALY (coef = −14.99, 95% CI: −20.37 to −9.60) and MIR (coef = −0.95, 95%CI: −0.99 to −0.92).

Conclusions

Prostate cancer burden increased rapidly throughout Asia and substantial disparities had persisted between countries. Geographically targeted interventions are needed to reduce the prostate cancer burden throughout Asia and in specific countries.
Lung transplantation for post‐COVID‐19 pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Gogia Pratibha , Attawar Sandeep , Singh Vivek , Bhatnagar Tarun , Sharma Sanjay , Batra Khushboo , Khare Swapnil
Published: October 2021

COVID‐19 has affected over a billion people around the world, with over 2 million losing their lives (Worldometer). About 10% of patients infected with COVID‐19 develop a serious illness, including respiratory failure, that require advanced life‐supporting measures. Mortality among this subgroup exceeds 60%. We present a case of an otherwise healthy 34‐year‐old male who developed end‐stage pulmonary fibrosis following COVID‐19 infection. He achieved haemodynamic stability with mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) but did not show any sign of weaning off ECMO; however, he successfully underwent bilateral lung transplantation.
A unifying Ziegler–Nichols tuning method based on active disturbance rejection
Authors: Nie Zhuo‐Yun , Li Zhaoyang , Wang Qing‐Guo , Gao Zhiqiang , Luo Jiliang
Published: October 2021

The landmark Ziegler–Nichols (ZN) tuning method from 1942 for proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controller has had significant impacts on the industrial control industry to this day, even though it is thought to be an empirical method with little theoretical justifications. The situation has not changed much despite the fact that a large amount of research and applications has been reported over decades. This paper shows for the first time that the ZN tuning can be incorporated into the framework of active disturbance rejection (ADR), where the process dynamics is made to match the desired one. This leads to a unifying tuning method for the recently proposed disturbance rejection PID (DR‐PID) controller, applicable to a wide range of industrial processes. Unlike the original ZN method, this new tuning method can be fully understood by the practitioner in their own language of bandwidth and phase characteristics. Moreover, it can also be fully validated via rigorous stability analysis. Finally, extensive simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the unifying ZN tuning method.
Getting KnERDI with Language: Examining Teachers’ Knowledge for Enhancing Reading Development in Code‐Based and Meaning‐Based Domains
Authors: Davis Dennis S. , Samuelson Courtney , Grifenhagen Jill , DeIaco Robyn , Relyea Jackie
Published: October 2021

Much of the early research on teachers’ knowledge for reading instruction used instruments that primarily emphasized code‐based aspects of reading, unintentionally signaling that meaning‐focused knowledge is not essential for teaching foundational reading to elementary‐age children. In this study, we developed the Knowledge for Enhancing Reading Development Inventory (KnERDI; pronounced 'nerdy'), an instrument that measures teachers’ knowledge in two domains: alphabetic code/word reading and meaning/connected text processes. Using this instrument, we sought to determine if teachers’ knowledge of the two proposed domains was highly associated and if knowledge was related to level of education and amount of teaching experience. We report on the reliability and validity of the KnERDI and describe patterns in educators’ performance on this instrument. We found that the KnERDI measured both domains with acceptable reliability in multiple samples of educators enrolled in an online professional development course. Educators scored higher on the meaning/connected text process subscale than on the alphabetic code/word reading subscale. The two subscales were strongly correlated, indicating that teachers’ knowledge as measured on the KnERDI is a unidimensional construct. Advanced degree completion was not consistently related to educators’ scores on the KnERDI, but there was a positive association between educators’ performance on the instrument and their years of experience teaching early reading, particularly with respect to the code‐based domain. We discuss potential uses of the KnERDI in future research and practice, positive trends in educators’ performance on the instrument, and challenges in measuring educators’ knowledge for supporting higher‐level language and comprehension processes.
Strategic attributions of corporate social responsibility and environmental management: The business case for doing well by doing good!
Authors: Camilleri Mark Anthony
Published: October 2021

Generally, businesses are capable of implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmentally sustainable behaviors as they pursue their profit‐making activities. While there are a number of contributions that investigated the effect of CSR and responsible environmental practices on the companies' bottom lines, few studies were focused on the strategic attributions of responsible corporate behaviors in the tourism industry context, during an unprecedented pandemic situation. Hence this research investigates the stakeholders' perceptions on the hospitality businesses' social responsibility and environmentally friendly practices. The data were collected from a sample of 462 research participants who worked in tourism and hospitality. The findings suggest that their employers' stakeholders were triggering their businesses to engage in ethical behaviors, responsible human resources management and to invest in environmentally friendly initiatives. As a result, they were creating value to their companies, to society and to the natural environment. In sum, this contribution implies that there are strategic attributions of CSR behaviors and of environmentally sustainable practices as responsible businesses can improve their growth prospects and increase their competitiveness in the long run.
Identification of geographic clusters for temporal heterogeneity with application to dengue surveillance
Authors: Lin Pei‐Sheng
Published: October 2021

Identifying transmission of hot spots with temporal trends is important for reducing infectious disease propagation. Cluster analysis is a particularly useful tool to explore underlying stochastic processes between observations by grouping items into categories by their similarity. In a study of epidemic propagation, clustering geographic regions that have similar time series could help researchers track diffusion routes from a common source of an infectious disease. In this article, we propose a two‐stage scan statistic to classify regions into various geographic clusters by their temporal heterogeneity. The proposed scan statistic is more flexible than traditional methods in that contiguous and nonproximate regions with similar temporal patterns can be identified simultaneously. A simulation study and data analysis for a dengue fever infection are also presented for illustration.
Multifunctional Carbon Nanocomposites as Nanoneurons from Multimode and Multianalyte Sensing to Molecular Logic Computing, Steganography, and Cryptography
Authors: Yao Qing Feng , Quan Min Xia , Yang Jin Hua , Liu Qing Yu , Bu Zhen Qi , Huang Wei Tao
Published: October 2021

Inspired by information exchange and logic functions of life based on molecular recognition and interaction networks, ongoing efforts are directed toward development of molecular or nanosystems for multiplexed chem/biosensing and advanced information processing. However, because of their preparation shortcomings, poor functionality, and limited paradigms, it is still a big challenge to develop advanced nanomaterials‐based systems and comprehensively realize neuron‐like functions from multimode sensing to molecular information processing and safety. Herein, using fish scales derived carbon nanoparticles (FSCN) as a reducing agent and stabilizer, a simple one‐step synthesis method of multifunctional silver–carbon nanocomposites (AgNPs–FSCN) is developed. The prepared AgNPs–FSCN own wide antibacterial and multisignal response abilities in five channels (including color, Tyndall, absorption and fluorescence intensities, and absorption wavelength) for quantitative colorimetric and fluorescence sensing of H2O2, ascorbic acid, and dopamine. Benefiting from its multicoding stimuli‐responsive ability, molecular concealment, and programmability, AgNPs–FSCN can be abstracted as nanoneurons for implementing batch and parallel molecular logic computing, steganography, and cryptography. This research will promote the preparation of advanced multifunctional nanocomposites and the development of their multipurpose applications, including the multireadout‐guided multianalyte intelligent sensing and sophisticated molecular computing, communication, and security.
High‐Performance Capacitive Deionization and Killing Microorganism in Surface‐Water by ZIF‐9 Derived Carbon Composites
Authors: Cao Shuai , Chen Tingting , Zheng Shasha , Bai Yang , Pang Huan
Published: October 2021

The protection and regeneration of the water environment is currently one of the most critical concerns for the sustainable development of human society. To solve the water crisis, the use of capacitive deionization (CDI) technology to extract fresh‐water that is suitable for human consumption from abundant surface‐water is a feasible solution. In this work, a cobalt benzimidazole frameworks (ZIF‐9) derived carbon composites with a unique quasi‐microcubic morphology is synthesized and used the as‐prepared materials as an electrode material for the CDI. Interestingly, the ZIF‐9 derived carbon composites exhibit an impressive desalination capacity of 55.4 mg g–1 and can be reused. Measurements in surface‐water (Beijing‐Hangzhou Grand Canal, Slender West Lake, Initial rainwater, Rain water) show that this CDI technology based on ZIF‐9 derived carbon composites not only has a strong adsorption effect on metal ions but also can remarkably kill microorganisms. The results show that the technology can effectively kill bacteria (Escherichia coli and Bacillus) and algae with 95% and 91.7% inhibition rates, respectively. This work provides a valuable example for the use of metal–organic framework‐derived carbon composites as high‐performance electrode materials of CDI and opens a new direction for promoting the application of CDI in surface‐water.
Transcoding web pages via stylesheets and scripts for saving energy on the client
Authors: Ünlü Hüseyin , Yesilada Yeliz
Published: October 2021

Mobile devices and accessing the web have become essential in our daily lives. However, their limitations in terms of both hardware such as the battery, and software capabilities can affect the user experience such as battery drain. There are some best practices for the web page design that are shown to affect the downloading time of web pages. In this study, we report our experience in applying these practices to see their effect on energy saving. We propose two techniques: (1) concatenating external script and stylesheet files and (2) minifying external script and stylesheets that can be used to transcode web pages to improve energy consumption on the client‐side and therefore improve the battery life. We present our experimental architecture, implementation, and a systematic evaluation of these two techniques. The evaluation results show that the proposed techniques can achieve approximately 12% processor energy‐saving and 4% power saving in two different client types, 13% improvement in a typical laptop battery life, and 4% improvement in a typical mobile phone battery life.
1,2‐Aminofunctionalization Reactions of Pyridino‐Alkynes via Carbophilic Activation
Authors: Paroi Bidisha , Sancheti Shashank P. , Patil Nitin T.
Published: October 2021

Transition metal‐catalyzed 1,2‐difunctionalization reactions of alkynes have emerged as a powerful tool to forge carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds for the rapid synthesis of polyfunctionalized molecular scaffolds. In this regard, our group has persistently been developing transition metal‐mediated 1,2‐aminofunctionalization reactions of alkynes through a rationally designed pyridino‐alkyne core by utilizing the carbophilic activation strategy. In this account, we present an array of such 1,2‐aminofunctionalization reactions which have been successfully executed on this core to afford important polycyclic frameworks such as functionalized quinalizinones, pyridinium oxazole dyads (PODs), N‐doped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), N‐doped spiro‐PAHs. Additionally, the synthesis of phosphine ligated gold complexes bearing pyrido‐isoquinoline scaffold from the pyridino‐alkynes will be discussed briefly.
Circ‐SNAP47 (hsa_circ_0016760) and miR‐625‐5p are regulators of WEE1 in regulation of chemoresistance, growth and invasion of DDP‐tolerant NSCLC cells via ceRNA pathway
Authors: Zou Can , Rong Feng , Zeng Yan , Zeng Jing , Wei Rong , Wei Dong
Published: October 2021

Circular RNA‐synaptosome associated protein 47 (circ‐SNAP47; Hsa_circ_0016760) is oncogenic in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, its role is undescribed in cis‐diamminedichloroplatinum II (DDP) resistance. We attempted to investigate its expression, role and mechanism in DDP‐tolerant NSCLC. As a result, circ‐SNAP47 expression was upregulated in human DDP‐tolerant NSCLC tissues and cells, accompanied with WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) upregulation and microRNA (miR)‐625‐5p downregulation. Functionally, interfering circ‐SNAP47 and/or restoring miR‐625‐5p curbed the 50% inhibitory concentration of DDP, colony formation, cell proliferation and invasion, accompanied with apoptotic rate promotion and depressions of multidrug resistance (MDR) markers MDR1 and MRP1, anti‐apoptosis protein Bcl‐2, and pro‐invasion protein MMP9. Notably, circ‐SNAP47 interference suppressed xenograft tumor growth of DDP‐tolerant NSCLC cells by elevating miR‐625‐5p and descending WEE1. Mechanistically, circ‐SNAP47 directly targeted miR‐625‐5p, and miR‐625‐5p further targeted WEE1. Therefore, circ‐SNAP47‐miR‐625‐5p‐WEE1 axis might participate in chemoresistance and progression of DDP‐tolerant NSCLC.
Zona pellucida treatment before CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated genome editing of porcine zygotes
Authors: Namula Zhao , Hirata Maki , Le Quynh Anh , Lin Qingyi , Takebayashi Koki , Yoshimura Naoaki , Tanihara Fuminori , Thongkittidilok Chommanart , Otoi Takeshige
Published: October 2021

Background

Increasing the permeability of the zona pellucida (ZP) of oocytes before CRISPR/Cas9 electroporation may improve the efficiency of gene editing; however, the effects of this approach on subsequent developmental processes are unclear. In this study, the effects of ZP treatment before electroporation on embryonic development and gene editing in porcine embryos were evaluated.

Methods

The ZP of zygotes was weakened or removed by exposure to 0.5% actinase E, followed by electroporation of the Cas9 protein with guide RNA targeting GGTA1.

Results

The blastocyst formation rate of ZP‐free zygotes after electroporation was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of ZP‐intact zygotes. The mutation rate in blastocysts from ZP‐weakened zygotes was similar to that in ZP‐intact zygotes, whereas ZP removal increased the mutation rate. The mutation efficiency in blastocysts from electroporated zygotes did not differ among ZP treatment groups.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that weakening the ZP does not affect the developmental competence, mutation rate, or mutation efficiency of electroporated zygotes, whereas ZP removal has a detrimental effect on embryonic development but may increase the mutation rate.
Model updating of wind turbine blade cross sections with invertible neural networks
Authors: Noever‐Castelos Pablo , Ardizzone Lynton , Balzani Claudio
Published: October 2021

Fabricated wind turbine blades have unavoidable deviations from their designs due to imperfections in the manufacturing processes. Model updating is a common approach to enhance model predictions and therefore improve the numerical blade design accuracy compared to the built blade. An updated model can provide a basis for a digital twin of the rotor blade including the manufacturing deviations. Classical optimization algorithms, most often combined with reduced order or surrogate models, represent the state of the art in structural model updating. However, these deterministic methods suffer from high computational costs and a missing probabilistic evaluation. This feasibility study approaches the model updating task by inverting the model through the application of invertible neural networks, which allow for inferring a posterior distribution of the input parameters from given output parameters, without costly optimization or sampling algorithms. In our use case, rotor blade cross sections are updated to match given cross‐sectional parameters. To this end, a sensitivity analysis of the input (material properties or layup locations) and output parameters (such as stiffness and mass matrix entries) first selects relevant features in advance to then set up and train the invertible neural network. The trained network predicts with outstanding accuracy most of the selected cross‐sectional input parameters for different radial positions; that is, the posterior distribution of these parameters shows a narrow width. At the same time, it identifies some parameters that are hard to recover accurately or contain intrinsic ambiguities. Hence, we demonstrate that invertible neural networks are highly capable for structural model updating.
Themes in data mining, big data, and crime analytics
Authors: Oatley Giles C.
Published: October 2021

This article examines the impact of new AI‐related technologies in data mining and big data on important research questions in crime analytics. Because the field is so broad, the review focuses on a selection of the most important topics. Challenges for information management, and in turn law and society, include: AI‐powered predictive policing; big data for legal and adversarial decisions; bias using big data and analytics in profiling and predicting criminality; forecasting crime risk and crime rates; and, regulating AI systems.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Spatial and Temporal Data Mining

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Big Data Mining

Technologies > Artificial Intelligence

Application Areas > Data Mining Software Tools