bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiRNA‐107 contributes to inflammatory pain by down‐regulating GLT‐1 expression in rat spinal dorsal horn
Authors: Zhang Ling , Wu Rui , Xu Mei‐Jie , Sha Jie , Xu Guang‐Yin , Wu Jian , Zhang Ping‐An
Published: February 2021

Background

Inflammatory pain is a severe clinical problem that affects the quality of life in patients. However, the currently available treatments for inflammatory pain have limited effect and even causes severe side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of miRNA‐107 and glutamate transporter 1 (GLT‐1) in the inflammatory pain of rats induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA).

Methods

Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) of rats was measured by von Frey Filaments. The expressions of miRNA‐107 and GLT‐1 in the lumbar spinal dorsal horn (L4‐L6) were measured with real‐time quantitative PCR and western blotting analysis. Fluorescent in situ hybridization and fluorescent‐immunohistochemistry were employed to detect the expression of miRNA‐107, GLT‐1 and co‐location of miRNA‐107 with GLT‐1.

Results

Injection of CFA significantly reduced PWT of rats. The miRNA‐107 expression level was obviously up‐regulated while the GLT‐1 expression level was decreased in the spinal dorsal horn of CFA rats. miRNA‐107 and GLT‐1 were co‐expressed in the same cells of the spinal dorsal horn in CFA rats. Ceftriaxone, a selective activator of GLT‐1, obviously increased the PWT of CFA rats. Furthermore, antagomir of miRNA‐107 reversed the down‐regulation of GLT‐1 and alleviated CFA‐induced mechanical allodynia of CFA rats.

Conclusions

These results suggest that an increase of miR‐107 contributes to inflammatory pain through downregulating GLT‐1 expression, implying a promising strategy for pain therapy.

Significance

The currently available treatments for inflammatory pain has limited effect even causes severe side effects. MiRNAs may have important diagnostic and therapeutic potential in inflammatory pain. In present study, we show a potential spinal mechanism of allodynia in rat inflammatory pain model induced by CFA. Increased miR‐107 contribute to inflammatory pain by targeting and downregulating GLT‐1 expression, implying a promising strategy for inflammatory pain.
The association between exposure to domestic abuse in women and the development of syndromes indicating central nervous system sensitization: A retrospective cohort study using UK primary care records
Authors: Chandan Joht Singh , Keerthy Deepiksana , Gokhale Krishna Margadhamane , Bradbury‐Jones Caroline , Raza Karim , Bandyopadhyay Siddhartha , Taylor Julie , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah
Published: February 2021

Background

Domestic abuse is a global public health issue. The association between the development of central sensitivity syndromes (CSS) and previous exposure to domestic abuse has been poorly understood particularly within European populations.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using the ‘The Health Improvement Network,’ (UK primary care medical records) between 1st January 1995–31st December 2018. 22,604 adult women exposed to domestic abuse were age matched to 44,671 unexposed women. The average age at cohort entry was 36 years and the median follow‐up was 2.5 years. The outcomes of interest were the development of a variety of syndromes which demonstrate central nervous system sensitization. Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and temporomandibular joint disorder outcomes have been reported previously. Outcomes were adjusted for the presence of mental ill health.

Results

During the study period, women exposed to domestic abuse experienced an increased risk of developing chronic lower back pain (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] 2.28; 95% CI 1.85–2.80), chronic headaches (aIRR 3.15; 95% CI 1.07–9.23), irritable bowel syndrome (aIRR 1.41; 95% CI 1.25–1.60) and restless legs syndrome (aIRR 1.89; 95% CI 1.44–2.48). However, no positive association was seen with the development of interstitial cystitis (aIRR 0.52; 95% CI 0.14–1.93), vulvodynia (aIRR 0.42; 95% CI 0.14–1.25) and myofascial pain syndrome (aIRR 1.01; 95% CI 0.28–3.61).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the need to consider a past history of domestic abuse in patients presenting with CSS; and also consider preventative approaches in mitigating the risk of developing CSS following exposure to domestic abuse.

Significance

Domestic abuse is a global public health issue, with a poorly understood relationship with the development of complex pain syndromes. Using a large UK primary care database, we were able to conduct the first global cohort study to explore this further. We found a strong pain morbidity burden associated with domestic abuse, suggesting the need for urgent public health intervention to not only prevent domestic abuse but also the associated negative pain consequences.
Nearshore Sedimentary Mercury Concentrations Reflect Legacy Point Sources and Variable Sedimentation Patterns Under a Natural Recovery Strategy
Authors: Moir Katherine E. , Windle Matthew J.S. , Cumming Brian F. , Ridal Jeffrey J.
Published: February 2021

The St. Lawrence River at Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, received substantial inputs of mercury from local, shoreline-based industries through much of the 20th century. Although emission controls were implemented in the late 20th century to reduce the influx of mercury and other metals entering the river, legacy contamination of riverine sediments continues to be a concern. Monitored natural recovery was prescribed in 2005 to remediate contaminated sediments; however, few surveys have been undertaken to examine its effectiveness on shallow, nearshore sediments in contaminated areas. Surface sediments were collected at shallow, nearshore sites in contaminated zones and upstream reference areas to evaluate the current state of sedimentary contamination of mercury and other metals. A Getis–Ord Gi* “hot spot” analysis was employed to assess the spatial distribution of contaminants. In addition, 3 sediment cores were collected from contaminated zones and dated using radioisotopes (210Pb) to assess sedimentation patterns over time. Results indicated that surface sediments from contaminated zones remained elevated in mercury relative to reference sites but spatial distribution of contaminants was highly heterogeneous. Dated sediment cores suggested that sedimentation was not occurring consistently across all areas; variable sedimentation and resuspension patterns over small spatial scales were likely factors driving heterogeneous sedimentary contamination. Such patterns complicate remediation strategies because unburied sediments may serve as continuing sources of contaminants to the ecosystem. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1788–1799. © 2021 SETAC
Economic Questions on Outsourcing by Gas Distribution Utilities
Authors: Costello Kenneth W.
Published: February 2021

In serving the public, there are numerous activities utilities implement that demand many skills and areas of expertise. As in any business, some of these activities are performed in‐house and some are outsourced. State and federal regulators’ responsibility is to establish performance expectations and ensure compliance with their mandate to establish just and reasonable rates. Both electric and gas utilities generally focus on what they do best; what they cannot do best, they typically outsource or contract to others. The regulators’ role is to assess whether the utility's decision about what activities to keep internal and what activities to outsource meet established performance expectations and regulatory standards.
Radioactive iodine therapy may not improve disease‐specific survival in follicular variant papillary thyroid cancer without distant metastasis: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Zheng Xun , Zhu Jingqiang , Li Zhihui , Wei Tao
Published: February 2021

Background

Whether radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy is effective in improving disease‐specific survival (DSS) in patients with follicular variant papillary thyroid cancer (FVPTC) without distant metastasis remains unclear.

Methods

Patients with FVPTC were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2015. The Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to evaluate DSS. Propensity score‐matched analysis was performed to reduce the influence of confounding bias.

Results

RAI did not improve DSS, even in patients with aggressive features such as T4 classification (p = 0.658), extrathyroidal extension (p = 0.083), lateral lymph node metastasis (p = 0.544), and ≥5 metastatic lymph nodes (p = 0.599).

Conclusion

RAI did not affect DSS in patients with FVPTC without distant metastases in this SEER database study. Multicenter, prospective studies including recurrence and molecular information should be conducted to comprehensively evaluate the effects of RAI on FVPTC.
Linoleic Acid‐Derived Oxylipins Differentiate Early Stage Alcoholic Hepatitis From Mild Alcohol‐Associated Liver Injury
Authors: Warner Dennis , Vatsalya Vatsalya , Zirnheld Kara H. , Warner Jeffrey B. , Hardesty Josiah E. , Umhau John C. , McClain Craig J. , Maddipati Krishnarao , Kirpich Irina A.
Published: February 2021

Alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) is a spectrum of liver disorders ranging from steatosis to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Alcohol‐associated hepatitis (AH) is an acute and often severe form of ALD with substantial morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms and mediators of ALD progression and severity are not well understood, and effective therapeutic options are limited. Various bioactive lipid mediators have recently emerged as important factors in ALD pathogenesis. The current study aimed to examine alterations in linoleic acid (LA)‐derived lipid metabolites in the plasma of individuals who are heavy drinkers and to evaluate associations between these molecules and markers of liver injury and systemic inflammation. Analysis of plasma LA‐derived metabolites was performed on 66 individuals who were heavy drinkers and 29 socially drinking but otherwise healthy volunteers. Based on plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, 15 patients had no liver injury (ALT ≤ 40 U/L), 33 patients had mild liver injury (ALT > 40 U/L), and 18 were diagnosed with moderate AH (mAH) (Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score <20). Lipoxygenase‐derived LA metabolites (13‐hydroxy‐octadecadienoic acid [13‐HODE] and 13‐oxo‐octadecadienoic acid) were markedly elevated only in patients with mAH. The cytochrome P450‐derived LA epoxides 9,10‐epoxy‐octadecenoic acid (9,10‐EpOME) and 12,13‐EpOME were decreased in all patients regardless of the presence or absence of liver injury. LA‐derived diols 9,10‐dihydroxy‐octadecenoic acid (9,10‐DiHOME) and 12,13‐DiHOME as well as the corresponding diol/epoxide ratio were elevated in the mAH group, specifically compared to patients with mild liver injury. We found that 13‐HODE and 12,13‐EpOME (elevated and decreased, respectively) in combination with elevated interleukin‐1β as independent predictors can effectively predict altered liver function as defined by elevated bilirubin levels. Conclusion: Specific changes in LA metabolites in individuals who are heavy drinkers can distinguish individuals with mAH from those with mild ALD.
The effects of the internal control system on the risk, profitability, and compliance of the U.S. banking sector: A quantitative approach
Authors: Koutoupis Andreas G. , Malisiovas Theodore
Published: February 2021

This is strong quantitative research investigating whether and how the components of the internal control system affect the credit risk, profitability, and compliance of the U.S. banking sector. Based on the COSO Framework, Basel Committee Frameworks, and the literature, the components of the internal controls are quantified. This quantitative nature distinguishes this study from others in this field since most of the studies up to now have investigated these topics by theoretical approaches. Eleven independent variables are analysed in three different regression models, with credit risk, profitability, and compliance being the dependent variables in each model. After cleaning the data from outliers, several tests are performed, while a panel set of data is used comprising the 210 biggest U.S. bank holding companies. Fixed‐effects regression is applied in the three models, while the years under examination are the five fiscal years 2013–2017. Most of the data are taken from the proxy statements (DEF 14A) and the 10‐K statements because of their qualitative nature. The key results indicate that Risk Assessment, Control Activities, and Information and Communication components strongly affect credit risk. The first (Control Environment) and last (Monitoring) components have a significant effect on credit risk, though only from the perspective of the board's number and the expertise of the audit committee, respectively. In the same line, internal controls significantly affect the profitability and compliance of U.S. banks, except for the Risk Assessment component in the first case and the Control Environment component in the second case, respectively. Control Activities component and the Information and Communication component have a significant and positive relationship with the banks' profitability, while these two components are significantly and negatively correlated with the banks' compliance.
Future IoT tools for COVID‐19 contact tracing and prediction: A review of the state‐of‐the‐science
Authors: Jahmunah Vicnesh , Sudarshan Vidya K. , Oh Shu Lih , Gururajan Raj , Gururajan Rashmi , Zhou Xujuan , Tao Xiaohui , Faust Oliver , Ciaccio Edward J. , Ng Kwan Hoong , Acharya U. Rajendra
Published: February 2021

In 2020 the world is facing unprecedented challenges due to COVID‐19. To address these challenges, many digital tools are being explored and developed to contain the spread of the disease. With the lack of availability of vaccines, there is an urgent need to avert resurgence of infections by putting some measures, such as contact tracing, in place. While digital tools, such as phone applications are advantageous, they also pose challenges and have limitations (eg, wireless coverage could be an issue in some cases). On the other hand, wearable devices, when coupled with the Internet of Things (IoT), are expected to influence lifestyle and healthcare directly, and they may be useful for health monitoring during the global pandemic and beyond. In this work, we conduct a literature review of contact tracing methods and applications. Based on the literature review, we found limitations in gathering health data, such as insufficient network coverage. To address these shortcomings, we propose a novel intelligent tool that will be useful for contact tracing and prediction of COVID‐19 clusters. The solution comprises a phone application combined with a wearable device, infused with unique intelligent IoT features (complex data analysis and intelligent data visualization) embedded within the system to aid in COVID‐19 analysis. Contact tracing applications must establish data collection and data interpretation. Intelligent data interpretation can assist epidemiological scientists in anticipating clusters, and can enable them to take necessary action in improving public health management. Our proposed tool could also be used to curb disease incidence in future global health crises.
Cutting edge: Metabolic immune reprogramming, reactive oxygen species, and cancer
Authors: Aria Hamid , Ghaedrahmati Farhoodeh , Ganjalikhani‐Hakemi Mazdak
Published: February 2021

A recently proposed term “immunometabolism” points to the functional intracellular metabolic changes that occur within different immune cells. Recent findings suggest that immune responses can be determined by the metabolic status of immune cells and metabolic reprogramming is an important feature of immune cell activation. Metabolic reprogramming is also well known for cancer cells and has been suggested as a major sign of cancer progression. Metabolic reprogramming of immune cells is also seen in the tumor microenvironment. In the past decade, immunometabolism has progressively become an extraordinarily vibrant and productive area of study in immunology because of its importance for immunotherapy. Understanding the immunometabolic situation of T cells and other immune cells along with the metabolic behavior of cancer cells can help us design new therapeutic approaches against cancers. Here, we have the aim to review the cutting‐edge findings on the immunometabolic situation in immune and tumor cells. We discuss new findings on signaling pathways during metabolic reprogramming, its regulation, and the participation of reactive oxygen species in these processes.
Aquaporins and diseases pathogenesis: From trivial to undeniable involvements, a disease‐based point of view
Authors: Ala Moein , Mohammad Jafari Razieh , Hajiabbasi Asghar , Dehpour Ahmad Reza
Published: February 2021

Aquaporins (AQPs), as transmembrane proteins, were primarily identified as water channels with the ability of regulating the transmission of water, glycerol, urea, and other small‐sized molecules. The classic view of AQPs involvement in therapeutic plan restricted them and their regulators into managing only a narrow spectrum of the diseases such as diabetes insipidus and the syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion. However, further investigations performed, especially in the third millennium, has found that their cooperation in water transmission control can be manipulated to handle other burden‐imposing diseases such as cirrhosis, heart failure, Meniere's disease, cancer, bullous pemphigoid, eczema, and Sjögren's syndrome.
Miniaturized active air sampling method for the analysis of tire rubber pollutants from indoor and outdoor places
Authors: Armada Daniel , Celeiro Maria , Martinez‐Fernandez Antia , Nurerk Piyaluk , Dagnac Thierry , Llompart Maria
Published: February 2021

An effective, quick, and sustainable air analysis method was developed to analyze 41 volatiles and semivolatile organic compounds present in tire rubber and crumb rubber materials. The proposed method, based on active sampling using a sorbent material followed by an ultrasound assisted extraction, was developed with the aim of obtaining a fast and simple procedure to determine polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, plasticizers, antioxidants, and vulcanization agents in air. A small amount of sorbent (25 mg) was used, and the analytes were recovered in only 1 mL of solvent. An experimental design was applied to study the influence of main factors such as type of sorbent and type of solvent, extraction technique (ultrasound‐assisted extraction and vortex extraction), extraction time, as well as the factor interactions. Under optimal conditions, no breakthrough occurs in the studied interval (up to 4 m3). Linearity was demonstrated in a wide concentration range. Accuracy of the total sampling‐extraction analysis was evaluated obtaining satisfactory recoveries as well as good precision. The method was successfully applied to different outdoor and indoor air environments, including a recycled rubber synthetic turf football pitch.
Contrasting Patterns of Demography and Population Viability Among Gopher Tortoise Populations in Alabama
Authors: Folt Brian , Goessling Jeffrey M. , Tucker Anna , Guyer Craig , Hermann Sharon , Shelton‐Nix Ericha , McGowan Conor
Published: February 2021

Population viability analyses are useful tools to predict abundance and extinction risk for imperiled species. In southeastern North America, the federally threatened gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a keystone species in the diverse and imperiled longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystem, and researchers have suggested that tortoise populations are declining and characterized by high extinction risk. We report results from a 30‐year demographic study of gopher tortoises in southern Alabama (1991–2020), where 3 populations have been stable and 3 others have declined. To better understand the demographic vital rates associated with stable and declining tortoise populations, we used a multi‐state hierarchical mark‐recapture model to estimate sex‐ and stage‐specific patterns of demographic vital rates at each population. We then built a predictive population model to project population dynamics and evaluate extinction risk in a population viability context. Population structure did not change significantly in stable populations, but juveniles became less abundant in declining populations over 30 years. Apparent survival varied by age, sex, and site; adults had higher survival than juveniles, but female survival was substantially lower in declining populations than in stable ones. Using simulations, we predicted that stable populations with high female survival would persist over the next 100 years but sites with lower female survival would decline, become male‐biased, and be at high risk of extirpation. Stable populations were most sensitive to changes in apparent survival of adult females. Because local populations varied greatly in vital rates, our analysis improves upon previous demographic models for northern populations of gopher tortoises by accounting for population‐level variation in demographic patterns and, counter to previous model predictions, suggests that small tortoise populations can persist when habitat is managed effectively. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Mixed problem with dynamical transmission condition for a one‐dimensional hyperbolic equation with strong dissipation
Authors: Aliev Akbar B. , Shafieva Gulshan Kh.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study a mixed problem for the nonlinear hyperbolic equation with a strong dissipation and a dynamical transmission condition. The existence and uniqueness theorems of local and global solutions are proved.
Noncontrast assessment of blood–brain barrier permeability to water: Shorter acquisition, test–retest reproducibility, and comparison with contrast‐based method
Authors: Lin Zixuan , Jiang Dengrong , Liu Dapeng , Li Yang , Uh Jinsoo , Hou Xirui , Pillai Jay J. , Qin Qin , Ge Yulin , Lu Hanzhang
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Assessment of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability without the need for contrast agent is desirable, and the ability to measure the permeability to small molecules such as water may further increase the sensitivity in detecting diseases. This study proposed a time‐efficient, noncontrast method to measure BBB permeability to water, evaluated its test–retest reproducibility, and compared it with a contrast agent–based method.

Methods

A single‐delay water extraction with phase‐contrast arterial spin tagging (WEPCAST) method was devised in which spatial profile of the signal along the superior sagittal sinus was used to estimate bolus arrival time, and the WEPCAST signal at the corresponding location was used to compute water extraction fraction, which was combined with global cerebral blood flow to estimate BBB permeability surface area product to water. The reliability of WEPCAST sequence was examined in terms of intrasession, intersession, and inter‐vendor (Philips [Ingenia, Best, the Netherlands] and Siemens [Prisma, Erlangen, Germany]) reproducibility. Finally, we compared this new technique to a contrast agent–based method.

Results

Single‐delay WEPCAST reduced the scan duration from approximately 20 min to 5 min. Extract fraction values estimated from single‐delay WEPCAST showed good consistency with the multi‐delay method (R = 0.82, P = .004). Group‐averaged permeability surface area product values were found to be 137.5 ± 9.3 mL/100 g/min. Intrasession, intersession, and inter‐vendor coefficient of variation of the permeability surface area product values were 6.6 ± 4.5%, 6.9 ± 3.7%, and 8.9 ± 3.0%, respectively. Finally, permeability surface area product obtained from WEPCAST MRI showed a significant correlation with that from the contrast‐based method (R = .73, P = .02).

Conclusion

Single‐delay WEPCAST MRI can measure BBB permeability to water within 5 min with an intrasession, intersession, and inter‐vendor test–retest reproducibility of 6% to 9%. This method may provide a useful marker of BBB breakdown in clinical studies.
Minimum Reporting Standards for in vivo Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRSinMRS): Experts' consensus recommendations
Authors: Lin Alexander , Andronesi Ovidiu , Bogner Wolfgang , Choi In‐Young , Coello Eduardo , Cudalbu Cristina , Juchem Christoph , Kemp Graham J. , Kreis Roland , Krššák Martin , Lee Phil , Maudsley Andrew A. , Meyerspeer Martin , Mlynarik Vladamir , Near Jamie , Öz Gülin , Peek Aimie L. , Puts Nicolaas A. , Ratai Eva‐Maria , Tkáč Ivan , Mullins Paul G. ,   Experts' Working Group on Reporting Standards for MR Spectroscopy
Published: February 2021

The translation of MRS to clinical practice has been impeded by the lack of technical standardization. There are multiple methods of acquisition, post‐processing, and analysis whose details greatly impact the interpretation of the results. These details are often not fully reported, making it difficult to assess MRS studies on a standardized basis. This hampers the reviewing of manuscripts, limits the reproducibility of study results, and complicates meta‐analysis of the literature. In this paper a consensus group of MRS experts provides minimum guidelines for the reporting of MRS methods and results, including the standardized description of MRS hardware, data acquisition, analysis, and quality assessment. This consensus statement describes each of these requirements in detail and includes a checklist to assist authors and journal reviewers and to provide a practical way for journal editors to ensure that MRS studies are reported in full.
Metal Assisted Synthesis of Cationic Sulfidobismuth Cubanes in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Knies Maximilian , Groh Matthias F. , Pietsch Tobias , Lê Anh Mai , Ruck Michael
Published: February 2021

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Michael Ruck at the Technische Universität Dresden (Germany). The cover picture shows the spiro‐dicubane Bi7S85+ in the center, accompanied by two Bi4S44+ hetero‐cubanes on both sides, which are shown along their threefold axis. These sulfidobismuth polycations were isolated in salts with [AlCl4]– and [S(AlCl3)3]2– anions. The starting material was Bi2S3, which is generally hard to dissolve but can easily be activated under ionothermal conditions. Moreover, the presence of noble metal ions, such as Ag+, Au+ or Pt2+, played a crucial role for the formation of those compounds. This research was performed in the framework of the Priority Program SPP 1708 “Material Synthesis Near Room Temperature” of the German Research Council (DFG). Read the full text of their Full Paper at
10.1002/open.202000246.
Virtual visits as long‐term follow‐up care for childhood cancer survivors: Patient and provider satisfaction during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kenney Lisa B. , Vrooman Lynda M. , Lind Eileen Duffey , Brace‐O'Neill Jill , Mulder Jean E. , Nekhlyudov Larissa , Recklitis Christopher J.
Published: February 2021

Telemedicine can potentially meet objectives of long‐term follow‐up care (LTFU) for childhood cancer survivors (CCS) while reducing barriers. We surveyed providers at our institution about their satisfaction with video‐conference virtual visits (VV) with 81 CCS during COVID‐19 restrictions. The same 81 CCS (or parent proxies) were surveyed about their experience, of which 47% responded. Providers and CCS were highly satisfied with VV (86% and 95% “completely/very satisfied,” respectively). CCS rated VV “as/nearly as” helpful as in‐person visits (66%) and 82% prefer VV remain an option postpandemic. High levels of survivor and provider satisfaction with VV support ongoing investigation into implementation for LTFU.
Investigation on Yield Point Elongation and Yield Strength of Fe–9Mn–1.5Si–1Al–0.05C Water‐Quenched and Air‐Quenched Steel Prior to Intercritical Annealing
Authors: Li Tianle , Yan Shu , Liu Xianghua
Published: February 2021

Medium manganese (Mn) transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP) steel, with nominal composition of Fe–9Mn–1.5Si–1Al–0.05C, is intercritically annealed after water quenching (WQ) or air quenching (AQ) from austenitization. The results indicate that the lower density of dislocations and a small amount of retained austenite are found in AQ specimen compared with WQ specimen by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The higher density of dislocations significantly affects the formation of immovable dislocations and promotes martensitic recovery during the intercritical annealing (IA) process, which ultimately causes yield point elongation and a lower yield strength in WQ‐620 sample during the tensile test, respectively. In contrast, AQ‐620 specimen relying on an active TRIP effect displays a continuous deformation behavior, slightly better yield strength, tensile strength, and total elongation, simultaneously.
Nothing remains static for this lifelong learner
Authors: Enos Gary A.
Published: February 2021

Shari Schwartz describes herself as a “continual learner” who has always enjoyed working in a critical thinking environment. Just five weeks into her arrival last year as Registrar at the University of North Texas, Schwartz found those attributes being put to the test as the COVID‐19 crisis began to affect campus operations.
Circular Economy in Poland: Main Achievements and Future Prospects
Authors: Avdiushchenko Anna
Published: February 2021

Circular economy (CE) is a new development strategy adopted by the European Union (EU) authorities in 2014, aiming to boost global competitiveness, foster sustainable economic growth, and generate new jobs. The CE approach maintains the added value in products for as long as possible and eliminates waste; moreover, it implies totally systemic change and innovation not only in technologies, but also in organization, society, finance methods, and policies. Such an approach leads to a new model of production and consumption and a new relationship between stakeholders at the local, regional, national, and EU levels. The first consideration of CE priorities in Poland started in 2016 when the Inter-ministerial Committee for Circular Economy was established. Representatives from nine ministries became committee members, and the chief document they prepared was the Roadmap for Circular Economy Transition. The document proposed an action plan for CE implementation and focused on increasing resource efficiency and waste reduction in Poland. Prepared with the active involvement of all possible stakeholders—businesses, NGOs, the academic and research community, and local and regional authorities—the Roadmap can be seen as a quick and effective guide. In addition to national government initiatives, there were numerous attempts to implement CE principles at the local and regional levels. The main goal of the current research was to examine the effectiveness of such national, regional, local, and business CE projects for influencing Poland’s CE transition during the past three years. This study reviews the main policy documents, reports, and expertise of national, international, regional, and local organizations and NGOs involved with CE in Poland. The research is also supported by a review of the relevant academic literature. As a result, it was possible to estimate the current level of achievement, as well as future prospects for CE in Poland. Moreover, this research identifies potential opportunities for updating existing planning policies and tools related to CE-based development in Poland.
Composite Dark Matter and a horizontal symmetry
Authors: Carvunis Alexandre , Guadagnoli Diego , Reboud Méril , Stangl Peter
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We present a model of composite Dark Matter (DM), in which a new QCD-like confining “hypercolor” sector generates naturally stable hyperbaryons as DM candidates and at the same time provides mass to new weakly coupled gauge bosons H that serve as DM mediators, coupling the hyperbaryons to the Standard Model (SM) fermions. By an appropriate choice of the H gauge symmetry as a horizontal SU(2)h SM flavor symmetry, we show how the H gauge bosons can be identified with the horizontal gauge bosons recently put forward as an explanation for discrepancies in rare B-meson decays. We find that the mass scale of the H gauge bosons suggested by the DM phenomenology intriguingly agrees with the one needed to explain the rare B-decay discrepancies.
Scrutinizing vacuum stability in IDM with Type-III inverse seesaw
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Priyotosh , Jangid Shilpa , Mitra Manimala
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We consider the extension of the Standard Model (SM) with an inert Higgs doublet that also contains two or three sets of SU(2)L triplet fermions with hypercharge zero and analyze the stability of electroweak vacuum for the scenarios. The model represents a Type-III inverse seesaw mechanism for neutrino mass generation with a Dark matter candidate. An effective potential approach calculation with two-loop beta function have been carried out in deciding the fate of the electroweak vacuum. Weak gauge coupling g2 shows a different behaviour as compared to the Standard Model. The modified running of g2, along with the Higgs quartic coupling and Type-III Yukawa couplings become crucial in determining the stability of electroweak vacuum. The interplay between two and three generations of such triplet fermions reveals that extensions with two generations is favoured if we aspire for Planck scale stability. Bounds on the Higgs quartic couplings, Type-III Yukawa and number of triplet fermion generations are drawn for different mass scale of Type-III fermions. The phenomenologies of inert doublet and Type-III fermions at the LHC and other experiments are commented upon.
Constraints in models of production and cost via slack-based measures
Authors: Khan Caroline , Tsionas Mike G.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we propose the use of stochastic frontier models to impose theoretical regularity constraints (like monotonicity and concavity) on flexible functional forms. These constraints take the form of inequalities involving the data and the parameters of the model. We address a major concern when statistically endogenous variables are present in these inequalities. We present results with and without endogeneity in the inequality constraints. In the system case (e.g., cost-share equations) or more generally, in production function-first-order conditions case, we detect an econometric problem which we solve successfully. We provide an empirical application to US electric power generation plants during 1986–1997, previously used by several authors.
The intoxicated co-witness: effects of alcohol and dyadic discussion on memory conformity and event recall
Authors: Bartlett Georgina , Gawrylowicz Julie , Frings Daniel , Albery Ian P.
Published: February 2021

Rationale

Co-witness discussion is common and often witnesses are under the influence of alcohol. As such, it is important to understand how such factors may influence eyewitness testimony.

Objectives

We combined a co-witness memory paradigm with an alcohol administration paradigm to examine the influence of alcohol and dyadic discussion on remembering a mock crime.

Methods

Intoxicated and sober dyads discussed a previously seen video, whilst in a control condition sober and intoxicated individuals recalled the event on their own. Unknown to the dyads, each discussion partner saw a different version of the video including unique details not present in the other video version. All participants then engaged in a second individual recall attempt.

Results

Dyads were more likely to recall misleading details in their individual recall attempts compared to the control group. Intoxicated and sober dyads were equally likely to report misleading information. Alcohol intoxication had no negative impact on individuals’ ability to correctly identify the source of their responses. Intoxicated participants recalled fewer details under free recall conditions. Alcohol had a detrimental effect on participants’ confidence in their free recall accounts.

Conclusions

Possible alcohol-related and social-cognitive mechanisms are discussed which may contribute to the current findings as well as applied implications for interviewing intoxicated witnesses.
Real-time magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric radiology — new approach to movement and moving children
Authors: Hirsch Franz Wolfgang , Frahm Jens , Sorge Ina , Roth Christian , Voit Dirk , Gräfe Daniel
Published: February 2021

The recent development of highly undersampled radial gradient echo sequences in combination with nonlinear inverse image reconstruction now allows for MRI examinations in real time. Image acquisition times as short as 20 ms yield MRI videos with rates of up to 50 frames per second with spin density, T1- and T2-type contrast. The addition of an initial 180° inversion pulse achieves accurate T1 mapping within only 4 s. These technical advances promise specific advantages for studies of infants and young children by eliminating the need for sedation or anesthesia. Our preliminary data demonstrate new diagnostic opportunities ranging from dynamic studies of speech and swallowing processes and body movements to a rapid volumetric assessment of brain cerebrospinal fluid spaces in only few seconds. Real-time MRI of the heart and blood flow can be performed without electrocardiogram gating and under free breathing. The present findings support the idea that real-time MRI will complement existing methods by providing long-awaited diagnostic options for patients in early childhood. Major advantages are the avoidance of sedation or anesthesia and the yet unexplored potential to gain insights into arbitrary body functions.
Parastomal Hernia: A Retrospective Nationwide Cohort Study Comparing Different Techniques with Long‐Term Follow‐Up
Authors: Mäkäräinen‐Uhlbäck Elisa , Vironen Jaana , Falenius Ville , Nordström Pia , Välikoski Anu , Kössi Jyrki , Kechagias Aristotelis , Kalliala Maija , Mattila Anne , Rantanen Tuomo , Scheinin Tom , Ohtonen Pasi , Rautio Tero
Published: February 2021

Background

Parastomal hernia repair is a complex surgical procedure with high recurrence and complication rates. This retrospective nationwide cohort study presents the results of different parastomal hernia repair techniques in Finland.

Methods

All patients who underwent a primary end ostomy parastomal hernia repair in the nine participating hospitals during 2007–2017 were included in the study. The primary outcome measure was recurrence rate. Secondary outcomes were complications and re‐operation rate.

Results

In total, 235 primary elective parastomal hernia repairs were performed in five university hospitals and four central hospitals in Finland during 2007–2017. The major techniques used were the Sugarbaker (38.8%), keyhole (16.3%), and sandwich techniques (15.4%). In addition, a specific intra‐abdominal keyhole technique with a funnel‐shaped mesh was utilized in 8.3% of the techniques; other parastomal hernia repair techniques were used in 21.3% of the cases. The median follow‐up time was 39.0 months (0–146, SD 35.3). The recurrence rates after the keyhole, Sugarbaker, sandwich, specific funnel‐shaped mesh, and other techniques were 35.9%, 21.5%, 13.5%, 15%, and 35.3%, respectively. The overall re‐operation rate was 20.4%, while complications occurred in 26.3% of patients.

Conclusion

The recurrence rate after parastomal hernia repair is unacceptable in this nationwide cohort study. As PSH repair volumes are low, further multinational, randomized controlled trials and hernia registry data are needed to improve the results.
Perrierite-(Ce) from the Laacher See tephra, Eifel, Germany, and the modular character of the chevkinite group of minerals
Authors: Malcherek Thomas , Schlüter Jochen , Schäfer Christof
Published: February 2021

Perrierite-(Ce) crystals from ejecta of the Laacher See volcano, Eifel, in Germany were studied by X-ray single-crystal diffraction and electron microprobe analysis. The composition and crystal structure of this sample is discussed in relation to the known properties of the chevkinite group minerals and related synthetic compounds. Taking into account the modular character of the chevkinite minerals, based on a rutile and a silicate module, the preferred formation of either the perrierite or the chevkinite structure type is correlated with the formal charge of the rutile and silicate modules. The rutile module is expected to carry a negative charge, compensated by a positive charge of the silicate module. On average, the charge modulus is observed to be larger for the chevkinite-type module stacking. It can drop to zero in perrierite-type structures rich in Sr or Ca. In such cases, it is generally not expected to rise above two. The perrierite-(Ce) described in this study crystallizes in space groupC2/m. The anisotropic oxygen and rare-earth element displacements observed in this crystal indicate a local domain structure of$$P2_1/a$$P21/asymmetry, when compared to the$$P2_1/a$$P21/asymmetry of the synthetic perrierite$$\hbox {La}_4\hbox {Mg}_2\hbox {Ti}_3\hbox {O}_8(\hbox {Si}_2\hbox {O}_7)_2$$La4Mg2Ti3O8(Si2O7)2.
Lipopolysaccharide Administration Alters Extracellular Vesicles in Cell Lines and Mice
Authors: Jones Leandra B. , Kumar Sanjay , Bell Courtnee’ R. , Crenshaw Brennetta J. , Coats Mamie T. , Sims Brian , Matthews Qiana L.
Published: February 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a fundamental role in cell and infection biology and have the potential to act as biomarkers for novel diagnostic tools. In this study, we explored the in vitro impact of bacterial lipopolysaccharide administration on cell lines that represents a target for bacterial infection in the host. Administration of lipopolysaccharide at varying concentrations to A549 and BV-2 cell lines caused only modest changes in cell death, but EV numbers were significantly changed. After treatment with the highest concentration of lipopolysaccharide, EVs derived from A549 cells packaged significantly less interleukin-6 and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1. EVs derived from BV-2 cells packaged significantly less tumor necrosis factor after administration of lipopolysaccharide concentrations of 0.1 µg/mL and 1 µg/mL. We also examined the impact of lipopolysaccharide administration on exosome biogenesis and cargo composition in BALB/c mice. Serum-isolated EVs from lipopolysaccharide-treated mice showed significantly increased lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 and toll-like receptor 4 levels compared with EVs from control mice. In summary, this study demonstrated that EV numbers and cargo were altered using these in vitro and in vivo models of bacterial infection.
Orbital volume, ophthalmic sequelae and severity in unilateral coronal synostosis
Authors: Kronig Sophia A. J. , Kronig Otto D. M. , Zurek Marcel , Van Adrichem Léon N. A.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Unilateral coronal synostosis (UCS) results in an asymmetrical skull, including shallow and asymmetrical orbits, associated with reduced orbital volume and high prevalences of ophthalmic sequelae. Aim is to link orbital volumes in patients with UCS to severity according to UCSQ (Utrecht Cranial Shape Quantifier) and presence of ophthalmic sequelae.

Methods

We included preoperative patients with UCS (≤ 18 months). Orbital volume was measured on CT scans by manual segmentation (Mimics software (Materialise, Leuven, Belgium)), and severity of UCS was determined by UCSQ. Orbital volume of affected side was compared to unaffected side using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Orbital volume ratio was calculated (affected/unaffected volume) and compared to the category of UCSQ by Kruskal-Wallis test. Opthalmic sequelae were noted.

Results

We included 19 patients (mean age 7 months). Orbital volume on affected side was significantly lower (p = 0.001), mean orbital volume ratio was 0.93 (SD 0.03). No significant differences in group means of orbital volume ratio between different levels of severity of UCSQ were found (Kruskal-Wallis H (2) = 0.873; p > 0.05). Ophthalmic sequelae were found in 3 patients; one had adduction impairment and strabismus (mild UCS), one had astigmatism (moderate UCS), and one had abduction impairment (on both ipsi- and contralateral side) and vertical strabismus (severe UCS).

Conclusion

No association between orbital volume ratio and severity of UCS was found. Side-to-side asymmetry in orbital volume was noted. No association between either preoperative orbital volume ratio or severity of UCS and the presence of preoperative ophthalmic sequelae was found.
Petrogenesis of the Loch Bà ring-dyke and Centre 3 granites, Isle of Mull, Scotland
Authors: Troll Valentin R. , Nicoll Graeme R. , Ellam Robert M. , Emeleus C. Henry , Mattsson Tobias
Published: February 2021

The Loch Bà ring-dyke and the associated Centre 3 granites represent the main events of the final phase of activity at the Palaeogene Mull igneous complex. The Loch Bà ring-dyke is one of the best exposed ring-intrusions in the world and records intense interaction between rhyolitic and basaltic magma. To reconstruct the evolutionary history of the Centre 3 magmas, we present new major- and trace-element, and new Sr isotope data as well as the first Nd and Pb isotope data for the felsic and mafic components of the Loch Bà intrusion and associated Centre 3 granites. We also report new Sr, Nd and Pb isotope data for the various crustal compositions from the region, including Moine and Dalradian metasedimentary rocks, Lewisian gneiss, and Iona Group metasediments. Isotope data for the Loch Bà rhyolite (87Sr/86Sri = 0.716) imply a considerable contribution of local Moine-type metasedimentary crust (87Sr/86Sr = 0.717–0.736), whereas Loch Bà mafic inclusions (87Sr/86Sri = 0.704–0.707) are closer to established mantle values, implying that felsic melts of dominantly crustal origin mixed with newly arriving basalt. The Centre 3 microgranites (87Sr/86Sri = 0.709–0.716), are less intensely affected by crustal assimilation relative to the Loch Bá rhyolite. Pb-isotope data confirm incorporation of Moine metasediments within the Centre 3 granites. Remarkably, the combined Sr–Nd–Pb data indicate that Centre 3 magmas record no detectable interaction with underlying deep Lewisian gneiss basement, in contrast to Centre 1 and 2 lithologies. This implies that Centre 3 magmas ascended through previously depleted or insulated feeding channels into upper-crustal reservoirs where they resided within and interacted with fertile Moine-type upper crust prior to eruption or final emplacement.