bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceptability of a home-based visual field test (Eyecatcher) for glaucoma home monitoring: a qualitative study of patients’ views and experiences
Authors: Jones Lee , Callaghan Tamsin , Campbell Peter , Jones Pete R , Taylor Deanna J , Asfaw Daniel S , Edgar David F , Crabb David P
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To explore the acceptability of home visual field (VF) testing using Eyecatcher among people with glaucoma participating in a 6-month home monitoring pilot study.

Design

Qualitative study using face-to-face semistructured interviews. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Setting

Participants were recruited in the UK through an advertisement in the International Glaucoma Association (now Glaucoma UK) newsletter.

Participants

Twenty adults (10 women; median age: 71 years) with a diagnosis of glaucoma were recruited (including open angle and normal tension glaucoma; mean deviation=2.5 to −29.9 dB).

Results

All participants could successfully perform VF testing at home. Interview data were coded into four overarching themes regarding experiences of undertaking VF home monitoring and attitudes towards its wider implementation in healthcare: (1) comparisons between Eyecatcher and Humphrey Field Analyser (HFA); (2) capability using Eyecatcher; (3) practicalities for effective wider scale implementation; (4) motivations for home monitoring.

Conclusions

Participants identified a broad range of benefits to VF home monitoring and discussed areas for service improvement. Eyecatcher was compared positively with conventional VF testing using HFA. Home monitoring may be acceptable to at least a subset of people with glaucoma.
Risk factors associated with quad bike crashes: a protocol for systematic review of observational studies
Authors: Menon Preetha , EI-Sadig Mohamed , AB Khan Moien , Östlundh Linda , El-Deyarbi Marwan , Al-Rifai Rami H , Grivna Michal
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Quad bikes are four-wheeled vehicles, driven off-road on uneven terrains by farmers for work or young adults for leisure. Quad bike accidental crashes result mostly due to the unique ecosystem of uneven terrain, where these unstable vehicles are commonly driven, in addition to numerous distinctive sociodemographic characteristics related to drivers. This is a protocol for a systematic review of observational studies from all geographical regions and demographic groups in the world to summarise the common risk factors relating to quad bike crashes.

Methods and analysis

A comprehensive search for the literature on quad bike crashes and related injuries will be conducted in six electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE and PsycINFO. Proquest Dissertation and Thesis, OpenGrey and BASE will be searched for grey literature. Five researchers will be involved in the screening, and the review of full text articles, using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements between reviewers will be resolved by discourse. Three researchers will help resolving conflicts that may arise during the screening process and will resolve eventual conflicts identified in the process with the help of the systematic review software ’Covidence’ for automatic deduplication and blinded screening. Information on crashes leading to injuries and death, target population characteristics and risk factors involved will be extracted from eligible articles in addition to the assessment of the quality of the researched articles.

Ethics and dissemination

Since this is a systematic review of published literature, a formal ethical approval is not needed. Results of the review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and reports to the concerned authorities.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020170245.
Understanding the impact of a residential housing programme for people living with HIV/AIDS: a realist evaluation protocol
Authors: Fletcher-Hildebrand Shaneice , Alimezelli Hubert , Carr Tracey , Lawson Karen , Ali Anum , Groot Gary
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Housing instability and homelessness are significant barriers to medical treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS. For these individuals, lack of stable housing and stigma is associated with insufficient access to care, poor adherence to medication and higher cost burdens to the healthcare system. This protocol reports on the efforts to evaluate Sanctum V.1.0, a hospice and transitional care home for adults with HIV/AIDS in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. The current project was developed out of a need to identify how Sanctum V.1.0 produces varying programme outcomes to assist in endeavours to replicate the programme in other geographic locations.

Methods and analysis

A realist evaluation will be conducted to explore how and why Sanctum V.1.0 is successful or unsuccessful, in which circumstances and for whom. Rather than explore the degree to which a programme is effective, realist evaluations seek to uncover mechanisms that explain processual links between programme inputs and outcomes. The completed first phase of the project involved the development of an initial realist programme theory. Phases 2 and 3 will consist of methods to test, refine and validate the initial theory using various data sources.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the institutional review board at the University of Saskatchewan on 2 July 2020. Results will be disseminated according to stakeholders’ desires.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder resources for educators working within primary school settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lees Briana , Elliott Elizabeth J , Allsop Steve , Thomas Sue , Riches Julia , Nepal Smriti , Rice Lauren J , Newton Nicola , Mewton Louise , Teesson Maree , Stapinski Lexine A
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Many children affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) exhibit neurocognitive delays that contribute to secondary consequences, including a disrupted school experience. Educators often have limited knowledge or experience in the identification, referral, management and accommodation of students with FASD. Effective resources and tools for educators are crucial to ensure these students are supported in their ongoing learning, development and school participation. This scoping review aims to identify and evaluate resources for educators that aid in the identification, management, or accommodation of students with FASD.

Methods and analysis

A search will be conducted in 9 peer-reviewed and 11 grey literature databases, Google search engine, two app stores and two podcast streaming services (planned search dates: November 2020 to February 2021). Relevant experts, including researchers, health professionals and individuals with lived experience of FASD, will be contacted in February and March 2021 to identify additional (including unpublished) resources. Resources will be selected based on registered, prespecified inclusion–exclusion criteria, and the quality of included resources will be critically appraised using a composite tool based on adaptions of the National Health and Medical Research Council FORM Framework and the iCAHE Guideline Quality Checklist. Relevant experts will also be requested to provide feedback on included resources.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this scoping review was obtained from the University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (2020/825). Results of the review will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication, conference presentations, and seminars targeting audiences involved in the education sector.

Trial registration

Open Science Framework: osf.io/73pjh.
Exploration of GP perspectives on deprescribing antidepressants: a qualitative study
Authors: Kelly Dervla , Graffi Justin , Noonan Maria , Green Philip , McFarland John , Hayes Peter , Glynn Liam
Published: April 2021

Objective

Our aim was to explore general practitioners’ (GPs) perceptions and experiences of discontinuing antidepressants.

Study design

A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was undertaken between July 2019 and March 2020. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using a thematic analysis framework.

Setting

GPs affiliated with a university education and research network for general practice in Ireland.

Participants

A purposive sample of GPs (n=10).

Results

Five themes emerged: shared decision-making; personalised therapy; medication-tapering toolkit; health service factors and concerns around tapering. GPs described being less likely to engage in deprescribing for patients with long-term and/or recurrent depression, older patients and those with comorbidities due to fear of relapse. Access to evidence-based psychological therapies, guidelines, information on rates of relapse, patient leaflets on discontinuing antidepressants and reminder prompts on GP-prescribing software were suggested to optimise appropriate antidepressant discontinuation. There was some suggestion that patients may use antidepressants for longer when talk therapy is not available or taken up.

Conclusions

GPs are largely confident in their role of managing mild-to-moderate depression and deprescribing antidepressants. This study provides an insight into factors that influence GPs’ decisions to deprescribe antidepressants. More information on rates of relapse after discontinuation would be helpful to inform decision-making.
Near-vision impairment and effective near-vision spectacle coverage in two districts in Telangana, India: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Marmamula Srinivas , Keeffe Jill , Challa Rajesh , Mohd Javed , Khanna Rohit C
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of near-vision impairment (NVI) and effective spectacle coverage for near vision in those aged ≥40 years in Khammam and Warangal district in Telangana, India.

Design

A population-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Khammam and Warangal district in Telangana, India.

Participants

Of 6000 people enumerated, 5357 were examined (89%). 4526 participants without distance vision impairment were included in the analysis.

Main outcome measures

The study teams visited selected households and conducted eye examinations. NVI was defined as binocular presenting near vision worse than N6. ‘Unmet need’ was deemed to be present if the unaided near vision was worse than N6 and improved to N6 with near correction among the participants who did not have spectacles for near vision. ‘Met need’ was deemed to be present when unaided near vision was worse than N6 but improving to N6 with their spectacles. The ‘undermet need’ was deemed to be present when aided near vision was worse than N6 but improved to N6 with correction. Based on these definitions, e-near-vision coverage (%) is calculated as follows: e-NVC (%)=met need/(met need+undermet need+unmet need) × 100.

Results

The mean age was 53.5 years (SD: 10.8 years), 2534/4526 (55.8%) were women, 1819/4526 (41.8%) had at least primary school education and 2368/4526 (52.3%) were from the Khammam district. The prevalence of NVI was 55.8% (95% CI 72.5 to 75.1; n=3343). Overall, the e-NVC (%) was 31.8%. It was 40.0% in Khammam and 23.2% in Warangal.

Conclusion

NVI is common in Khammam and Warangal districts in Telangana with inadequate effective near-vision coverage. Effective service delivery models are needed to reach out and provide services to address NVI to achieve universal eye health coverage in the region.
Multiomics analysis reveals a distinct response mechanism in multiple primary lung adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Chao , Yin Kai , Liu Si-Yang , Yan Li-Xu , Su Jian , Wu Yi-Long , Zhang Xu-Chao , Zhong Wen-Zhao , Yang Xue-Ning
Published: April 2021

Multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) remains a tough challenge to diagnose and treat. Although neoadjuvant immunotherapy has shown promising results in early stage non-small cell lung cancer, whether such modality can benefit all primary lesions remains unclear. Herein, we performed integrated multiomics analysis in one patient with early stage MPLC with remarkable tumor shrinkage in a solid nodule and no response in two subsolid nodules after treatment with three cycles of neoadjuvant pembrolizumab. Genomic heterogeneity was observed among responding nodules with high levels of infiltrating CD8+and CD68+immune cells. Substantially downregulated human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-related genes and impaired T lymphocyte function were observed in non-responding nodules. A larger proportion of infiltrating tissue resident memory T cells (Trm) along with high T cell receptor repertoire clonality in responding nodules were validated as predictive and prognostic biomarkers in multiple cancer types using external public datasets. These results suggested that neoadjuvant programmed death 1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 1 inhibitors alone may not be an optimal therapeutic strategy for MPLC due to disparities in genomic alterations and immune microenvironment among different lesions. Additionally, we postulate that increased infiltration of Trm may be a unique marker of early immune responses to PD-1 blockade.
Improved clinical outcome in a randomized phase II study of anti-PD-1 camrelizumab plus decitabine in relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Chunmeng , Li Xiang , Dong Liang , Yang Qingming , Chen Meixia , Shi Fengxia , Brock Malcolm , Liu Miao , Mei Qian , Liu Jiejie , Nie Jing , Han Weidong
Published: April 2021

Background

Programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade monotherapy induced durable remission in a subset of patients with relapsed/refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). We asked whether the anti-PD-1 agent, camrelizumab, combined with the DNA demethylating agent, decitabine, improves progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with relapsed/refractory cHL over camrelizumab alone.

Methods

This extended follow-up of an ongoing randomized phase II trial analyzed PFS among patients enrolled from January 2017 through July 2018. Sixty-one patients with relapsed/refractory cHL who were clinically naïve to PD-1 blockade and had received ≥2 previous therapies were randomized 1:2 to receive either camrelizumab (200 mg) monotherapy or camrelizumab (200 mg, day 8) combined with decitabine (10 mg/day, days 1–5) every 3 weeks.

Results

With a median follow-up of 34.5 months, complete remission was 79% (95% CI 63% to 90%) in the decitabine-plus-camrelizumab group versus 32% (95% CI 13% to 57%) in the camrelizumab group (p=0.001). Median duration of response was not reached in the decitabine-plus-camrelizumab group, with an estimated 63% (95% CI 46% to 75%) of patients maintaining a response at 24 months. Median PFS with decitabine-plus-camrelizumab therapy was 35.0 months (95% CI not reached) and 15.5 months (95% CI 8.4 to 22.7 months) with camrelizumab monotherapy (HR, 0.46; 95% CI 0.21 to 1.01; p=0.02). Female gender, lower tumor burden, and fewer previous therapies were favorable prognostic factors for durable remission with camrelizumab monotherapy. The PFS benefits of decitabine-plus-camrelizumab versus camrelizumab were observed in most subgroups, especially in patients with relative larger tumor burdens and those treated with ≥3 prior therapies. After decitabine-plus-camrelizumab treatment, the percentage increase of circulating peripheral central memory T-cells correlated with both improved clinical response and PFS, suggesting a putative biomarker of decitabine-plus-camrelizumab therapy for cHL.

Conclusions

Decitabine-plus-camrelizumab results in longer PFS compared with camrelizumab alone in patients with relapsed/refractory cHL.

Trial registration numbers

NCT02961101andNCT03250962.
Mutations in phospholipase C eta-1 (PLCH1) are associated with holoprosencephaly
Authors: Drissi Ichrak , Fletcher Emily , Shaheen Ranad , Nahorski Michael , Alhashem Amal M , Lisgo Steve , Fernández-Jaén Alberto , Schon Katherine , Tlili-Graiess Kalthoum , Smithson Sarah F , Lindsay Susan , J Sharpe Hayley , Alkuraya Fowzan S , Woods Geoff
Published: April 2021

Background

Holoprosencephaly is a spectrum of developmental disorder of the embryonic forebrain in which there is failed or incomplete separation of the prosencephalon into two cerebral hemispheres. To date, dominant mutations in sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway genes are the predominant Mendelian causes, and have marked interfamilial and intrafamilial phenotypical variabilities.

Methods

We describe two families in which offspring had holoprosencephaly spectrum and homozygous predicted-deleterious variants in phospholipase C eta-1 (PLCH1). Immunocytochemistry was used to examine the expression pattern of PLCH1 in human embryos. We used SHH as a marker of developmental stage and of early embryonic anatomy.

Results

In the first family, two siblings had congenital hydrocephalus, significant developmental delay and a monoventricle or fused thalami with a homozygousPLCH1c.2065C>T, p.(Arg689*) variant. In the second family, two siblings had alobar holoprosencephaly and cyclopia with a homozygousPLCH1c.4235delA, p.(Cys1079ValfsTer16) variant. All parents were healthy carriers, with no holoprosencephaly spectrum features. We found that the subcellular localisation of PLCH1 is cytoplasmic, but the p.(Cys1079ValfsTer16) variant was predominantly nuclear. Human embryo immunohistochemistry showed PLCH1 to be expressed in the notorcord, developing spinal cord (in a ventral to dorsal gradient), dorsal root ganglia, cerebellum and dermatomyosome, all tissues producing or responding to SHH. Furthermore, the embryonic subcellular localisation of PLCH1 was exclusively cytoplasmic, supporting protein mislocalisation contributing to the pathogenicity of the p.(Cys1079ValfsTer16) variant.

Conclusion

Our data support the contention that PLCH1 has a role in prenatal mammalian neurodevelopment, and deleterious variants cause a clinically variable holoprosencephaly spectrum phenotype.
Mid-term outcome of children with latent rheumatic heart disease in eastern Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Nikesh Raj , Bruelisauer Dorothea , Uranw Surendra , Mahato Rajan , Sherpa Kunjang , Agrawal Krishna , Rothenbühler Martina , Karki Prahlad , Pilgrim Thomas
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Systematic echocardiographic screening of children in regions with an endemic pattern of rheumatic heart disease allows for the early detection of valvular lesions suggestive of subclinical rheumatic heart disease. The natural course of latent rheumatic heart disease is, however, incompletely understood at this time.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study of children detected to have echocardiographic evidence of definite or borderline rheumatic heart disease according to the World Heart Federation Criteria.

Results

Among 53 children found to have definite (36) or borderline (17) rheumatic heart disease, 44 (83%) children underwent follow-up at a median of 1.9 years (IQR 1.1–4.5). The median age of the children was 11 years (IQR 9–14) and 34 (64.2%) were girls. Among children with definite rheumatic heart disease, 21 (58.3%) were adherent to secondary antibiotic prophylaxis, 7 (19.4%) were not, information on adherence was missing in 2 (5.6%) children and 6 (16.7%) were lost to follow-up. Regression of disease was observed in 10 children (27.8%), whereas 20 children (55.6%) had stable disease. Among children adherent to secondary prophylaxis, seven (33.3%) showed regression of disease. Among children with borderline disease, seven (41.2%) showed regression of disease, three (17.6%) progression of disease, four (23.5%) remained stable and three (17.6%) were lost to follow-up. On univariate analysis, we identified no predictors of disease regression, and no predictors for lost to follow-up or non-adherence with secondary antibiotic prophylaxis.

Conclusion

Definite rheumatic heart disease showed regression in one in four children. Borderline disease was spontaneously reversible in less than half of the children and progressed to definite rheumatic heart disease in one in five children.

Trial registration number

NCT01550068.
Conflicting portrayals of remaining old growth: the British Columbia case
Authors: Price Karen , Holt Rachel F. , Daust Dave
Published: April 2021

Old growth is disappearing globally, with implications for biodiversity, forest resilience, and carbon storage; yet uncertainty remains about how much exists, partly because assessments stratify ecosystems differently, sometimes obscuring relevant patterns. This paper compares portrayals of British Columbia’s (BC) old-growth forest stratified in two ways: by biogeoclimatic variant, as per policy, and by relative site productivity. Our analyses confirm provincial government claims that about a quarter of BC’s forests are old growth but find that most of this area has low realized productivity, including subalpine and bog forests, and that less than 1% is highly productive old growth, growing large trees. Within biogeoclimatic variant, nearly half of high-productivity forest landscapes have less than 1% of the expected area of old forest. Low-productivity ecosystems are over-represented in protected forest. We suggest that the experiment of managing old growth solely by biogeoclimatic variant has failed and that current forest policy, in combination with timber harvesting priorities, does not maintain representative ecosystems, counter to the intent of both policy and international conventions. Stratifying old growth by relative productivity within biogeoclimatic variant seems an appropriate method to portray ecosystem representation, potentially increasing the probability of maintaining ecosystem resilience.
Quaternionic quantum particles: new solutions
Authors: Giardino Sergio
Published: April 2021

If Ψ is a quaternionic wave function, then iΨ ≠ Ψi. Thus, there are two versions of the quaternionic Schrödinger equation (QSE). In this article, we present the second possibility for solving the QSE, following from a previous article. After developing the general methodology, we present the quaternionic free particle solution and the scattering of the quaternionic particle through a scalar barrier.
The transverse polarization of $$\Lambda $$ hyperons in $$e^+e^-\rightarrow \Lambda ^\uparrow h X$$ processes within TMD factorization
Authors: Li Hui , Wang Xiaoyu , Yang Yongliang , Lu Zhun
Published: April 2021

We investigate the transverse polarization of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
hyperon in the processes $$e^+e^-\rightarrow \Lambda ^\uparrow \pi ^\pm X$$

e
+

e
-

→

Λ
↑

π
±

X

and $$e^+e^-\rightarrow \Lambda ^\uparrow K^\pm X$$

e
+

e
-

→

Λ
↑

K
±

X

within the framework of the transverse momentum dependent (TMD) factorization. The transverse polarization is contributed by the convolution of the transversely polarizing fragmentation function (PFF) $$D_{1T}^\perp $$

D

1
T

⊥

of the lambda hyperon and the unpolarized fragmentation function $$D_1$$

D
1

of pion/kaon. We adopt the spectator diquark model result for $$D_{1T}^{\perp }$$

D

1
T

⊥

to numerically estimate the transverse polarization in $$e^+e^-\rightarrow \Lambda ^\uparrow h X$$

e
+

e
-

→

Λ
↑

h
X

process at the kinematical region of Belle Collaboration. To implement the TMD evolution formalism of the fragmentation functions, we apply two different parametrizations on the nonperturbative Sudakov form factors associated with the fragmentation functions of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
, pion and kaon. It is found that our prediction on the polarization in the $$\Lambda \pi ^+$$

Λ

π
+

production and $${\bar{\Lambda }} \pi ^-$$

Λ

¯

π
-

is consistent with the recent Belle measurement in size and sign, while the model predictions on the polarizations in $$\Lambda \pi ^-$$

Λ

π
-

and $$\Lambda K^\pm $$

Λ

K
±

productions show strong disagreement with the Belle data. The reason for the discrepancies is discussed and possible approaches to improve the calculation in the future are also discussed.
PEER EFFECTS AND FERTILITY PREFERENCES IN CHINA: EVIDENCE FROM THE CHINA LABOR-FORCE DYNAMICS SURVEY
Authors: NIE PENG , WANG LU , SOUSA-POZA ALFONSO
Published: April 2021

Despite empirical evidence that individuals form their fertility preferences by observing social norms and interactions in their environments, the exact impact of these peer effects remains unclear. We thus use data from the 2014 and 2016 China Labor-force Dynamics Survey to investigate the association between community-level peer effects and fertility preferences among Chinese women aged 18–49. Whereas our baseline results indicate that 11.96% of these women would prefer 1 or no children, 74.1% would like 2 children and 13.93% would prefer 3 or more children. A one unit increase in community-level peer fertility reduces the preference of wanting only one child by 14.3%, whereas it increases the probability of preferring three children by 9.3% and four or more children by 4.8%. Hence, overall, we find a relatively strong peer effect on individual fertility preferences in communities characterized by generally low fertility rates, which provide support for the role of social norms in the fertility choices of reproductive-aged Chinese women.
The drag-free control design and in-orbit experimental results of “Taiji-1”
Authors: Hu Zhiqiang , Wang Pengcheng , Deng Jianfeng , Cai Zhiming , Wang Zhi , Wang Zuolei , Yu Jinpei , Wu Yueliang , Kang Qi , Li Huawang , Zhang Yonghe ,   On behalf of The Taiji Scientific Collaboration
Published: April 2021

Taiji is China’s spaceborne gravitational wave (GW) detecting project, which is designed to detect GW sources ranging from 0.1mHz to 1Hz. Taiji-1, launched on 31 August 2019, is a pilot study mission to prepare necessary technology for Taiji pathfinder. Two major technology units were tested on Taiji-1: Optical Metrology System and Drag-free Control System (DFCS). In this paper, we try to illustrate the design of DFCS; the implementation strategy of experiment and the first results of in-orbit experiment. The disturbance reduction capability of Taiji-1’s DFCS is demonstrated by the in-orbit experimental performance analysis.
Mixed interaction solutions for the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Tang Yaning , Zhou Jiale
Published: April 2021

We investigate the mixed interaction solutions of the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations (CNLSE) through the Darboux transformation method. First of all, we derive the nonsingular localized wave solutions for two cases of CNLSE by the Darboux transformation method and matrix analysis method. Furthermore, we take a limit technique to deduce rogue waves and divide the rogue waves into four categories through analyzing their dynamic behaviors. Based on the obtained theorems, the Darboux transformations are presented to solve interaction solutions between distinct nonlinear waves. In this paper, we mainly study four types. Finally, the dynamic characteristics of the constructed these solutions are analyzed by sequences of interesting figures plotted with the help of Maple.
Breather-wave, periodic-wave and traveling-wave solutions for a (2 + 1)-dimensional extended Boiti–Leon–Manna–Pempinelli equation for an incompressible fluid
Authors: Shen Yuan , Tian Bo , Zhang Chen-Rong , Tian He-Yuan , Liu Shao-Hua
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the investigation is conducted on a (2 + 1)-dimensional extended Boiti–Leon–Manna–Pempinelli equation for an incompressible fluid. Via the Riemann theta function, periodic-wave solutions are derived, and breather-wave solutions are constructed with the aid of the extended homoclinic test approach. Based on the polynomial expansion method, several traveling-wave solutions are derived. Besides, we observe that the amplitude of the breather keeps unchanged during the propagation and the traveling wave which is kink shaped propagates stably. Furthermore, we analyze the transition between the periodic-wave and soliton solutions, which implies that the periodic-wave solutions tend to the soliton solutions via a limiting procedure.
TEMPORAL MEDIATION OF UNCERTAINTY WITHIN ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITY EVALUATION
Authors: MARKS JONATHAN , BATEV TOMISLAV
Published: April 2021

Limited research within entrepreneurship is available on how time affects entrepreneurs’ decision-making. We try to bridge this gap by understanding how temporal factors affect opportunity evaluation and how they affect uncertainty. Basing our hypotheses on Construal Level Theory, we ran two experiments and found that individuals modify their evaluation of the same opportunity when evaluating a distant future versus a near future event. Opportunities in the near future are more highly evaluated than distant future opportunities. Moreover, we demonstrate experimentally that uncertainty affects opportunity evaluation.
Magnetic anisotropy and phohotoluminescence properties of amorphous CexFeyOn nanowire arrays
Authors: Wang Fangkuo , Yuan Xiao-You
Published: April 2021

Amorphous Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowire arrays with diameters about 100 nm were fabricated in porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template channels by chemical co-precipitation assisted by suction filtration. Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowire arrays have distinct magnetic anisotropy behavior, and the axis parallel to the nanowire is magnetically “easy.” The magnetic properties of Ce[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] and Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowire arrays were investigated to compare with Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowire arrays. The fluorescence spectra of Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowires arrays mixed with Eu, Tb, Sm showed that their emission intensity displays regular change with the increase of the mole fraction of mixture. The emission intensity reached maximum with increasing of Eu or Sm-mixing from 2 mol% to 10 mol% at 591 nm, 709 nm or 607 nm, then decreased gradually. However, there is no obvious influence to fluorescence of Tb mixed Ce[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] nanowire arrays, only one visible weak emission peak is present at 486 nm.
Mitigating PEMFC Degradation During Start-Up: Locally Resolved Experimental Analysis and Transient Physical Modelling
Authors: Colombo Elena , Bisello Andrea , Casalegno Andrea , Baricci Andrea
Published: April 2021

This paper discusses the results of an experimental and modelling activity devoted to the analysis of start-up/shut-down of PEM fuel cells under operative conditions representative of automotive applications, when mitigation strategies are implemented. The focus is on air start-ups after long stops, when permeated air into the anode could not be avoided. A transient and physical 2D model was developed, incorporating the main electrochemical reactions and pseudo-capacitive contributions, calibrated on specific experiments and validated on local measurements of potential and current. Through the simulations, the impact of each phenomenon was separated in the complex dynamics of the process, elucidating the key role of platinum oxides. The experimental measurements comprise the local potentials, provided by through-plate Reference Hydrogen Electrodes, and the in-plane currents, measured among four regions of a segmented hardware. A systematic study of mitigation strategies based on stressors is presented, like: anode flow rate, oxygen dilution and temperature. Their effectiveness results from the ability in reducing either the process duration or the maximum potential. The model helps in interpreting the observed changes and to obtain trends of corroded carbon as a function of stressors; a controlling role is played by the anode flow velocity and the anodic oxygen concentration.
A Comprehensive Solution for Ni-Rich Cathodes by Lithium Silicate Coating
Authors: Deng Xin , Wu Kang , Dang Rongbin , Li Na , Zhang Hong , Jiao Jianyue , Lee Yulin , Hu Zhongbo , Xiao Xiaoling
Published: April 2021

Ni-rich materials are among the most promising cathode materials for use in the electric vehicle industry with high energy density, excellent low temperature performance and rate performance. However, with the increase of Ni content, many problems emerge in Ni-rich materials, such as residual alkali and the side reactions at the electrode surface. In this work, we find that part of the residual lithium at the surface of the Li[Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1]O2 material can be converted into lithium silicate as a lithium-ion conductor, through the surface treatment of tetraethyl orthosilicate, thereby solving the above problems. Specifically, at a rate of 3C, the material with a coating amount of 2 wt% showed a capacity retention rate of 83.33% after 300 cycles, with the pristine material at only 64.60%. Furthermore, under the protection of the coating layer, the dissolution of the transition metal and side reactions on the cathode electrode surface were effectively suppressed. Experimental results proved that this method is reliable and easy to implement and can serve as a comprehensive solution for common problems of Ni-rich materials.
Expression and function of human ribonuclease 4 in the kidney and urinary tract
Authors: Bender Kristin , Schwartz Laura L. , Cohen Ariel , Vasquez Claudia Mosquera , Murtha Matthew J. , Eichler Tad , Thomas Jason P. , Jackson Ashley , Spencer John David
Published: April 2021

Ribonuclease 4 (RNase 4) is a newly identified host defense peptide in the human kidney and bladder. RNase 4 kills uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) and multidrug-resistant UPEC. RNase 4 prevents invasive UPEC infection and suppressed RNase 4 expression may be a risk factor for more severe or recurrent urinary tract infection.
C1 inhibitor mitigates peritoneal injury in zymosan-induced peritonitis
Authors: Ozeki Toshikazu , Mizuno Masashi , Iguchi Daiki , Kojima Hiroshi , Kim Hangsoo , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Kinashi Hiroshi , Ishimoto Takuji , Maruyama Shoichi , Ito Yasuhiko
Published: April 2021

Peritoneal injuries associated with peritonitis comprise an important issue to prevent long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD) therapy. Here, we showed that C1 inhibitor (C1-INH), as an anticomplement agent, protected against peritoneal injuries in a peritonitis animal model related to fungal infection. Therefore, C1-INH might be useful to protect against peritoneal injuries after peritonitis due to fungal infection. This clinically available agent may thus help extend the duration of PD.
The Atg16l1 gene: characterization of wild type, knock-in, and knock-out phenotypes in rats
Authors: Chesney Kari L. , Men Hongsheng , Hankins Miriam A. , Bryda Elizabeth C.
Published: April 2021

ATG16L1 is a ubiquitous autophagy gene responsible, in part, for formation of the double-membrane bound autophagosome that delivers unwanted cellular debris and intracellular pathogens to the lysosome for degradation. A single, nonsynonymous adenine to guanine polymorphism resulting in a threonine to alanine amino acid substitution (T300A) directly preceded by a caspase cleavage site (DxxD) causes an increased susceptibility to Crohn’s disease (CD) in humans. The mechanism behind this increased susceptibility is still being elucidated, however, the amino acid change caused by this point mutation results in increased ATG16L1 protein sensitivity to caspase 3-mediated cleavage. To generate novel rat strains carrying genetic alterations in the rat Atg16l1 gene, we first characterized the wild-type rat gene. We identified four alternative splice variants with tissue-specific expression. Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology, we developed a knock-in rat model for the human ATG16L1 T300A CD risk polymorphism, as well as a knock-out rat model to evaluate the role of Atg16l1 in autophagy as well as its potential effect on CD susceptibility. These are the first reported rat strains with alterations of the Atg16l1 gene. Consistent with studies of the effects of human ATG16L1 polymorphisms, models exhibit morphological abnormalities in both Paneth and goblet cells, but do not develop spontaneous intestinal permeability or inflammatory bowel disease. Analysis of the gut microbiota does not show inherent differences in bacterial composition between wild-type and genetically modified animals. These Atg16l1 strains are valuable new animal models for the study of both autophagy and CD susceptibility.
Hepatic transcriptional profile reveals the role of diet and genetic backgrounds on metabolic traits in female progenitor strains of the Collaborative Cross
Authors: Kim Myungsuk , Huda M. Nazmul , O’Connor Annalouise , Albright Jody , Durbin-Johnson Blythe , Bennett Brian J.
Published: April 2021

Mice have provided critical mechanistic understandings of clinical traits underlying metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) and susceptibility to MetSyn in mice is known to vary among inbred strains. We investigated the diet- and strain-dependent effects on metabolic traits in the eight Collaborative Cross (CC) founder strains (A/J, C57BL/6J, 129S1/SvImJ, NOD/ShiLtJ, NZO/HILtJ, CAST/EiJ, PWK/PhJ, and WSB/EiJ). Liver transcriptomics analysis showed that both atherogenic diet and host genetics have profound effects on the liver transcriptome, which may be related to differences in metabolic traits observed between strains. We found strain differences in circulating trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) concentration and liver triglyceride content, both of which are traits associated with metabolic diseases. Using a network approach, we identified a module of transcripts associated with TMAO and liver triglyceride content, which was enriched in functional pathways. Interrogation of the module related to metabolic traits identified NADPH oxidase 4 ( Nox4), a gene for a key enzyme in the production of reactive oxygen species, which showed a strong association with plasma TMAO and liver triglyceride. Interestingly, Nox4 was identified as the highest expressed in the C57BL/6J and NZO/HILtJ strains and the lowest expressed in the CAST/EiJ strain. Based on these results, we suggest that there may be genetic variation in the contribution of Nox4 to the regulation of plasma TMAO and liver triglyceride content. In summary, we show that liver transcriptomic analysis identified diet- or strain-specific pathways for metabolic traits in the Collaborative Cross (CC) founder strains.
Axial Compressive Behavior of Steel Fiber‐Reinforced Recycled Coarse Aggregate Concrete‐Filled Short Circular Steel Columns
Authors: Wang Qiao-Huan , Liang Jiong-Feng , He Chun-Feng , Li Wei
Published: April 2021

This paper attempts to explore the effects of recycled coarse aggregate content, steel fiber content, and concrete strength on the axial compressive behavior of steel fiber‐reinforced recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) concrete‐filled circular steel stub columns. A total of 14 short columns are tested. The results show that using RCA in concrete will reduce the bearing capacity of short columns, but the increase in steel fiber content and concrete strength can eliminate this shortcoming. Not only that, the concrete strength has a great influence on the ductility and stiffness of the specimen.
Analysis and Application of the Mechanical Properties of the Karst Collapse Column Fillings
Authors: Lin Zhibin , Zhang Boyang , Gong Xiaofei , Sun Limin , Wang Wenzhen , Yang Dafang , Yang Yanlin , Guo Ming , Pan Xia-Hui
Published: April 2021

The filling material of the karst collapse column (KCC) is easy to be activated by mining. During this process, the mechanical properties of KCC fillings change, and its water resisting capacity constantly deteriorates and thus often leads to water inrush disaster. In this study, the samples of KCC fillings were taken on‐site and then were remolded by the consolidation drainage method. The variation laws of the compressive strength, tensile strength, cohesive stress, internal friction angle, and permeability of the filling samples with respect to the consolidation pressure and moisture content were tested and analyzed. Based on an engineering example, the yield and activation and particle loss of the filling material of the KCC are analyzed. A mechanism for the lagging water inrush of KCC in the process of mining is proposed. The main results of the present study can be concluded concisely as follows. (1) The KCC fillings show obvious soft rock characteristics in the process of uniaxial compression and Brazilian split. The ratio of the uniaxial compressive strength to splitting tensile strength is between 12 : 1 and 8 : 1. The larger the consolidation pressure or the smaller the moisture content, the larger the ratio. (2) With the increase of consolidation pressure or the decrease of moisture content, the uniaxial compressive strength, elastic modulus, splitting tensile strength, cohesive stress, and internal friction angle of the filling material of the KCC increase linearly, while its permeability increases exponentially. (3) When the crack field of the surrounding rocks of the stope is connected with the KCC, its filling material will continue to yield, activate, and migrate under the fluid‐solid coupling effect and finally result in the lagging water inrush from the KCC.
Research on Body Type Correction of FINA Diving Difficulty Coefficient Based on Rigid Body System
Authors: Zhang Su , Xiang Wen , Zou Guozhong
Published: April 2021

In order to reduce the influence of athlete’s body shape on the difficulty coefficient of diving, a more reasonable calculation method of body shape correction coefficient is proposed based on the original calculation rules of diving difficulty coefficient. First, the composition of the original diving difficulty coefficient and influencing factors is analyzed and the relationship between the various structural parts is fully clarified. Second, a coupled nonrigid body dynamics model is established and a 2‐body model is used to simulate complex diving actions, and it is concluded that diving time is positively correlated with body shape. Finally, the air movement part and the water entry part of diving are discussed separately, the calculation model of the difficulty coefficient of body shape correction is established, and the original difficulty coefficient is corrected. The results show that the difficulty coefficient of each movement is obviously increased. This effectively avoids the influence of body shape on the diving difficulty coefficient.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Worsens Progression-Free and Overall Survival in Human Metastatic Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Lacedonia Donato , Landriscina Matteo , Scioscia Giulia , Tondo Pasquale , Caccavo Incoronata , Bruno Giuseppina , Giordano Guido , Piscazzi Annamaria , Foschino Barbaro Maria Pia
Published: April 2021

Sleep disorders have emerged as highly prevalent conditions, and along with improved understanding of such disorders, increased attention has gained the evidence that perturbation in sleep architecture and continuity may initiate, exacerbate, or modulate the phenotypic expression of multiple diseases including cancer. Furthermore, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has recently been implicated in increased incidence and more adverse prognosis of cancer in humans. This study was designed to confirm the high prevalence of OSA in human malignancies and assess its prognostic relevance in metastatic colorectal carcinomas (mCRCs). A prospective cohort of 52 subjects, affected by solid histologically confirmed metastatic malignancies, was analyzed, and among them, 29 mCRCs were studied for the prognostic role of OSA. OSA was diagnosed in 34.6% (18/52) of patients with a statistically significant difference in apnea-hyponea index between OSA and non-OSA subgroups (14.2 ± 12.2 vs. 2.1 ± 1.5,

p
<
0.01

). Consistently, OSA was diagnosed in 34.5% (10/29) of mCRCs with lower rates of first-line therapy disease control in OSA compared to non-OSA patients (60% in OSA vs. 94.7% in non-OSA,

p
=
0.03

). Of note, progression-free and overall survival rates were significantly shorter in OSA (respectively, 9 and 22 months) compared non-OSA (20 and 40 months) mCRC patients (HR = 2.63; 95% CI 0.88–7.84,

p
=
0.01

for PFS; HR = 3.93; 95% CI 1.13–13.73,

p
<
0.001

for OS). Finally, the multivariate analysis showed that OSA is an independent prognostic factor for PFS

p
=
0.0076

and OS

p
=
0.0017

in this cohort. Altogether, these data suggest that OSA is a potential clinical marker predictor of poor prognosis in patients with mCRC.
Chinese Herbal Medicine, Guilu Erxian Glue, as Alternative Medicine for Adverse Side Effects of Chemotherapy in Doxorubicin-Treated Cell and Mouse Models
Authors: Lien Chia-Ying , Lu Chen-Wen , Lin Yi-Hsuan , Wu Wan-Jhen , Hsu Chih-Hsiang , Chuang Tai-Yuan , Lin Kuei-Fu , Chuang Wu-Chang , Lee Ming-Chung , Wu Chung-Hsin
Published: April 2021

Doxorubicin (DOX), a chemotherapeutic drug, often causes many adverse side effects in patients with cancer, such as weight loss, motor disability, blood circulation defects, myelosuppression, myocardial injury, joint degeneration, and bone loss. The Chinese herbal medicine Guilu Erxian Glue (GEG) has been used in the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis for hundreds of years, with considerably fewer side effects. We expected that GEG could serve as a protective and beneficial alternative treatment for DOX-induced adverse side effects. In this study, we evaluated whether GEG can alleviate DOX-induced weight loss, motor disability, abnormal blood circulation, myelosuppression, myocardial injury, joint degeneration, and bone loss by using chemotherapy models of synoviocyte cell line HIG-82 and mice. Moreover, we examined the antioxidant capacity of GEG by using DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) free-radical scavenging. Our results revealed that GEG treatment can significantly enhance DPPH free-radical scavenging and reduce DOX-induced cytotoxicity in synoviocyte HIG-82 cells. In addition, GEG treatment for 2 weeks can significantly relieve weight loss, enhance exhaustive exercise capacity, improve blood circulation, alleviate myocardial oxidative stress and inflammation, and strengthen the tibias of DOX-treated mice. Thus, we suggest that GEG treatment can be a protective and alternative therapy for alleviating chemotherapy-related side effects such as weight loss, motor disability, blood circulation defects, and bone loss.
Application Status and Prospects of 5G Technology in Distribution Automation Systems
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyun , Wang Qitong
Published: April 2021

With the continuous development of 5G (5th generation mobile networks) communication technology, increasing attention has been paid to the integration of 5G technology and vertical industry. Based on the consideration of power security, the large‐scale application of 5G in the power industry will start from the distribution grid and gradually extend to the high‐voltage power grid. There have been some powerful attempts to apply 5G technology in distribution grid automation, distribution grid relay protection, and distribution grid monitoring. This article will summarize the application of 5G technology in these fields, focuses on the analysis of possible problems in technical standards, network security, application costs, and signal coverage, and will propose reasonable prospects and thoughts on the integration of 5G technology and distribution grids.