bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of Fracture Hospitalization and Surgery in Women Increases Steadily During the Puerperal and Lactation Period: A Retrospective Register-Based Cohort Study in Finland From 1999 to 2018
Authors: Nyrhi Lauri , Kuitunen Ilari , Ponkilainen Ville , Huttunen Tuomas T. , Mattila Ville M.
Published: May 2022

This retrospective cohort study assesses the incidences of major fractures and surgery in women during the puerperium and the lactation period in Finland between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2018. Using nationwide data from the Finnish Care Register for Health Care and the Finnish Medical Birth Register, all women aged between 15 and 49 years with a fracture hospitalization within 12 months of delivery between 1999 and 2018 were included. During the study period, a total of 3140 fractures after delivery and 152,800 fractures of the female normal population of similar age were hospitalized. The incidence rate after delivery increased from 219/100,000 person-years during the first 4 months to 310 fractures/100,000 person-years during the latter 8 months of the first year after delivery. Altogether, 29% (n = 904/3140) of these fractures were treated operatively. The most common fractures were ankle and distal radius fractures, which made up one-third of all fractures. The incidence of pelvic fracture hospitalization was 15/100,000 person-years at 4 months after delivery, with an operation rate of 22%. Over half of all fractures occurred between 6 and 12 months after delivery (mean 6.6 months). The incidence of fracture hospitalization after delivery increased steadily during the puerperium and the lactation periods but remained lower than in the general population (age-adjusted incidence 554/100,000 person-years) with an incidence rate ratio of 0.51. However, a higher proportion of pelvic fractures were observed in the first months after delivery. Surgical rates were in line with the general population. Fractures of the wrist and ankle made up most of the fractures. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Towards one‐pot consolidated bioprocessing of cellulose to biodiesel: lipase‐catalyzed transesterification at cellulose‐coated oil‐in‐water emulsions as micro‐reactors
Authors: Hamal Ester Korkus , Alfassi Gilad , Rein Dmitry M , Cohen Yachin
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

There is an urgent need for renewable energy sources as alternatives for fossil fuels. A promising alternative is biodiesel. This study is part of an overall objective to convert cellulose from pretreated biomass directly to biodiesel, using cellulose‐coated emulsion particles as micro‐reactors for a cascade of biochemical reactions in a ‘one‐pot’ consolidated process.

RESULTS

This study presents a ‘proof‐of‐concept’ for the crucial step in this process: the ability of lipase integrated within oil‐in‐water emulsion particles encapsulated by natural cellulose to catalyze transesterification of encapsulated oil with ethanol dissolved in an aqueous medium. We develop and examine such integrated microparticles for generation of fatty acid ethanol ester (FAEE) by lipase‐catalyzed transesterification of castor oil at the particle core–shell interface with aqueous ethanol. The activity of lipase‐catalyzed transesterification was studied using NMR quantification of FAEE while various conditions such as oil‐to‐ethanol molar ratio, lipase concentration and temperature were examined. The highest conversion was obtained for an oil‐to‐ethanol molar ratio of 1:30 with lipase concentration of 6.42 × 10−3 wt% at 40 °C.

CONCLUSIONS

It is expected that the results of this study, together with ongoing experiments of ethanol production by integration of cellulose‐coated emulsion particles with yeasts and cellulolytic enzymes, as well as further optimization, will provide the complete transformation of cellulose to biodiesel by enzymatic hydrolysis, yeast fermentation and lipase‐catalyzed transesterification, in a single emulsion‐based consolidated bioprocess. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
microRNA‐145‐5p attenuates acute lung injury via targeting ETS2
Authors: Qiao Liang , Li Rong‐Xia , Hu Shan‐Gang , Liu Yu , Liu Hong‐Qiang , Wu Hong‐Jun
Published: May 2022

The protective effect of microRNA (miR)‐145‐5p in acute lung injury (ALI) has been discovered previously. Thus, in this study, we attempted to further investigate the mechanism of miR‐145‐5p in ALI through the downstream E26 transformation‐specific proto‐oncogene 2 (ETS2)/transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1)/Smad pathway. A lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI rat model was established. The expression of miR‐145‐5p in ALI rat lung tissues was up‐regulated. Afterward, pathological damage in the lung tissue, the wet/dry (W/D) ratio, apoptosis, and serum inflammatory factor contents were observed. miR‐145‐5p, ETS2, TGF‐β1, Smad2/3, and phosphorylated Smad2/3 levels were measured in rats. miR‐145‐5p expression was down‐regulated, ETS2 expression was up‐regulated, and the TGF‐β1/Smad pathway was activated in LPS‐exposed rats. Overexpression of miR‐145‐5p inactivated the TGF‐β1/Smad pathway and attenuated ALI, as reflected by relieved pathological damage, a decreased W/D ratio, reduced apoptosis, and suppressed inflammatory response. In contrast, loss of miR‐145‐5p or elevated ETS2 levels worsened ALI and activated the TGF‐β1/Smad pathway. Moreover, elevation of ETS2 diminished miR‐145‐5p‐mediated protection against ALI. Evidently, miR‐145‐5p negatively regulates ETS2 expression and inactivates the TGF‐β1/Smad pathway to ameliorate ALI in rats.
Environmental awareness of the private firm and optimal privatization in a mixed duopoly
Authors: Wang Xia , Tan Tingting , Xing Mingqing
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the optimal privatization policy in a mixed duopoly where the private firm may have environmental awareness. It finds that if the marginal environmental damage is low (high), partial privatization is optimal and its optimal level increases (decreases) with the degree of the private firm's environmental awareness. However, if the marginal environmental damage is moderate, full nationalization or full privatization can be optimal and the optimal privatization level does not depend on the degree of the private firm's environmental awareness. This study highlights the role that environmental pollution and private firms' environmental awareness play in determining optimal privatization policy.
Wideband circularly polarized dipole antenna with loaded directors and stable radiation pattern
Authors: Yang Kai T. , Fu Dong Q. , Ye Liang H. , Shi Xinrong
Published: May 2022

A wideband circularly polarized (CP) crossed‐dipole antenna is proposed. It consists of two crossed dipoles, four trapezoidal patches, and four rectangular directors. The crossed dipoles are connected by three‐quarter metal rings and fed by a 50 Ω coaxial cable to generate CP radiation. The trapezoidal patches are adopted to enhance the impedance matching and axial ratio (AR) at the lower frequency band. The rectangular directors are employed to not only enhance the impedance matching and axial ratio but also stabilize the radiation pattern with high gain over the wide frequency band. This antenna has a wide impedance bandwidth of 92.3% (1.76–4.8 GHz）for |S11 | < −10 dB and a wide axial ratio bandwidth of 85.6% (1.76–4.4 GHz) for AR < 3 with stable radiation pattern and a peak gain of 8.4 dBi.
The state of the art for artificial intelligence in lung digital pathology
Authors: Viswanathan Vidya Sankar , Toro Paula , Corredor Germán , Mukhopadhyay Sanjay , Madabhushi Anant
Published: May 2022

Lung diseases carry a significant burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The advent of digital pathology (DP) and an increase in computational power have led to the development of artificial intelligence (AI)‐based tools that can assist pathologists and pulmonologists in improving clinical workflow and patient management. While previous works have explored the advances in computational approaches for breast, prostate, and head and neck cancers, there has been a growing interest in applying these technologies to lung diseases as well. The application of AI tools on radiology images for better characterization of indeterminate lung nodules, fibrotic lung disease, and lung cancer risk stratification has been well documented. In this article, we discuss methodologies used to build AI tools in lung DP, describing the various hand‐crafted and deep learning‐based unsupervised feature approaches. Next, we review AI tools across a wide spectrum of lung diseases including cancer, tuberculosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and COVID‐19. We discuss the utility of novel imaging biomarkers for different types of clinical problems including quantification of biomarkers like PD‐L1, lung disease diagnosis, risk stratification, and prediction of response to treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. We also look briefly at some emerging applications of AI tools in lung DP such as multimodal data analysis, 3D pathology, and transplant rejection. Lastly, we discuss the future of DP‐based AI tools, describing the challenges with regulatory approval, developing reimbursement models, planning clinical deployment, and addressing AI biases. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Proteomic profiling of idiopathic Parkinson's disease primary patient cells by SWATH‐MS
Authors: Wood Stephen A. , Hains Peter G. , Muller Arnaud , Hill Melissa , Premarathne Susitha , Murtaza Mariyam , Robinson Phillip J. , Mellick George D. , Sykes Alex M.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease. It is generally diagnosed clinically after the irreversible loss of dopaminergic neurons and no general biomarkers currently exist. To gain insight into the underlying cellular causes of PD we aimed to quantify the proteomic differences between healthy control and PD patient cells.

Experimental Design

Sequential Window Acquisition of all THeoretical Mass Spectra was performed on primary cells from healthy controls and PD patients.

Results

In total, 1948 proteins were quantified and 228 proteins were significantly differentially expressed in PD patient cells. In PD patient cells, we identified seven significantly increased proteins involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR) and focused on cells with high and low amounts of PDIA6 and HYOU1. We discovered that PD patients with high amounts of PDIA6 and HYOU1 proteins were more sensitive to endoplasmic reticulum stress, in particular to tunicamycin. Data is available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD030723.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

This data from primary patient cells has uncovered a critical role of the UPR in patients with PD and may provide insight to the underlying cellular dysfunctions in these patients.
The crystal structure of TRPM2 MHR1/2 domain reveals a conserved Zn2+‐binding domain essential for structural integrity and channel activity
Authors: Sander Simon , Pick Jelena , Gattkowski Ellen , Fliegert Ralf , Tidow Henning
Published: May 2022

Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) is a Ca2+‐permeable, nonselective cation channel involved in diverse physiological processes such as immune response, apoptosis, and body temperature sensing. TRPM2 is activated by ADP‐ribose (ADPR) and 2′‐deoxy‐ADPR in a Ca2+‐dependent manner. While two distinct binding sites exist for ADPR that exert different functions dependent on the species, the involvement of either binding site regarding the superagonistic effect of 2′‐deoxy‐ADPR is not clear yet. Here, we report the crystal structure of the MHR1/2 domain of TRPM2 from zebrafish (Danio rerio), and show that both ligands bind to this domain and activate the channel. We identified a so far unrecognized Zn2+‐binding domain that was not resolved in previous cryo‐EM structures and that is conserved in most TRPM channels. In combination with patch clamp experiments we comprehensively characterize the effect of the Zn2+‐binding domain on TRPM2 activation. Our results provide insight into a conserved motif essential for structural integrity and channel activity.
Ivermectin synergizes sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma via targeting multiple oncogenic pathways
Authors: Lu Haofeng , Zhou Lin , Zuo Hongping , Le Wenjin , Hu Jianfei , Zhang Tiequan , Li Mi , Yuan Yufeng
Published: May 2022

Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) results in generally poor clinical outcomes and necessitates better therapeutic strategies. Ivermectin, which is an existing anti‐parasitic drug, has been recently identified as a novel anti‐cancer drug. In line with previous efforts, this work demonstrates the translational potential of ivermectin to treat advanced HCC. We demonstrated that ivermectin at clinically relevant concentrations was active against growth and survival in multiple HCC cell lines. We showed that ivermectin had the potential to inhibit metastasis and target HCC stem cell functions. Mechanism studies correlated well with cellular phenotypes observed in ivermectin‐treated cells, and demonstrated inhibition of mTOR/STAT3 pathway, suppression of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and reduced expression of stem cell markers. We further demonstrated that ivermectin inhibited tumor formation and growth in HCC xenograft mouse model, without causing significant toxicity in the mice. Using combination index (CI), we showed that ivermectin and sorafenib were synergistic in HCC in vitro, and this was further confirmed in vivo. Our work demonstrates the potent anti‐HCC activities of ivermectin and its multiple targets on essential oncogenic pathways. Our findings provide preclinical evidence to initialize clinical trial using ivermectin and sorafenib for treating advanced HCC.
The role of atmospheric dynamics and large‐scale topography in driving heatwaves
Authors: Jiménez‐Esteve Bernat , Domeisen Daniela I.V.
Published: May 2022

Heatwaves are weather events characterized by extreme near‐surface temperature anomalies that persist for several days, and therefore lead to catastrophic impacts on natural ecosystems, agriculture, human health, and economies. Different physical processes can contribute to the temperature anomaly associated with heatwaves. Previous studies have shown that increased solar radiation and adiabatic heating associated with blocking systems and local land–atmosphere coupling are important drivers of summer heatwaves. Less is known about the fundamental role of atmospheric large‐scale dynamics and topography in generating heatwaves. Here, we perform idealized model simulations where all physical parameterisations are substituted by a simple zonally symmetric temperature relaxation scheme. This allows us to characterize the dynamical processes involved in the life cycle of heatwaves occurring at different latitudes. We find that blocking plays an active role in the life cycle of high‐ and midlatitude heatwaves, while blocking is less relevant for low‐latitude heatwaves. Rossby‐wave packets are the dominant drivers for midlatitude heatwaves, with horizontal advection being the main mechanism leading to heat extremes. Heatwaves exhibit a higher persistence and frequency near the pole and Equator compared with the midlatitudes, but a higher intensity in the midlatitudes compared with higher and lower latitudes. Topography located along the midlatitude jet has the largest impact on the heatwave distribution around the planet, resulting in increased heatwave frequency upstream for moderate topographic forcing and a circumglobal increase for topographic elevations above 6 km. Identifying the most relevant processes driving heatwaves can potentially benefit the prediction and representation of extreme events in operational weather and climate forecast systems.
An approach for improvements on the attribute npx$np_x$ control chart
Authors: Silva Leandro Alves da , Ho Linda Lee , Quinino Roberto Costa
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes an attribute control chart named which is used for monitoring the process mean value of a variable (X) by employing sequential sample sizes of , with . Each item is classified as approved or not according to a discriminant limit (, ) using a GO/NO GO gauge. In the end of inspection we'll have and items classified as disapproved. Whenever or , the process is judged to be out of control and after adjustments in the process, the inspection is always restarted with a sample size of . The parameters used in the construction of the control chart were obtained through a search for values that optimize their performance, such that can compete with the standard attribute chart and the traditional control chart. The performances were compared in terms of average run length () in scenarios of shift sizes (δ) in the process mean. A numerical example illustrates its application.
Control design of uncertain discrete‐time Lur'e systems with sector and slope bounded nonlinearities
Authors: Bertolin Ariádne L. J. , Oliveira Ricardo C. L. F. , Valmorbida Giorgio , Peres Pedro L. D.
Published: May 2022

This article addresses the problem of static output‐feedback control design for uncertain discrete‐time Lur'e systems with sector and slope bounded nonlinearities. By manipulating stability analysis conditions from the literature based on integral‐quadratic‐constraint theory and multipliers, and applying Finsler's lemma, new synthesis conditions are provided in terms of sufficient linear matrix inequalities. After applying a relaxation in the stability conditions, an iterative algorithm is proposed to search for the two stabilizing gains of the control law, one for the output of the plant and one for the output of the nonlinear branch. The gains, that appear affinely in the inequalities, are treated as variables of the optimization problem. Therefore, the approach can handle state or output‐feedback indistinctly and cope with magnitude or structural constraints (such as decentralization) in the gains without introducing additional conservatism. Numerical examples illustrate the results.
Tap into TikTok with strategies for engaging with your students
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2022

TikTok is no longer just for young teenagers. In fact, a large portion of your current and prospective students — and even young alumni — likely spend more than an hour per day on the app, where they go for entertainment, for inspiration, and to learn new things, according to Morgan Campbell, Social Media Manager at Purdue University Krannert School of Management.
Sulphonated Carbon Dots Synthesized Through a One‐Pot, Facile and Scalable Protocol Facilitates the Preparation of Renewable Precursors Using Glucose/Levulinic Acid
Authors: Selim Abdul , Sharma Raina , Arumugam Senthil Murugan , Elumalai Sasikumar , Jayamurugan Govindasamy
Published: May 2022

Herein, we report the efficacy of Brønsted acid‐functionalized CDs in an enriched preparation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and ethyl levulinate (EL) energy fuel building‐block compounds. The cheap p‐toluenesulphonic acid was used as a precursor to prepare CD‐SO3H by employing a simple, one‐pot and scalable protocol. The high‐end analytical techniques endorsed the catalyst's higher acid density and minimum particle size characteristics. Its glucose reaction evaluation resulted in an 82 mol% HMF using glucose via dehydration. Similarly, it enabled an 85 mol% EL from levulinic acid via esterification under modest reaction conditions. It also promoted the synthesis of other varieties of alkyl levulinates (such as levulinic acid 1‐butyl and methyl esters) with a similar yield result. The recyclability study showed that it could be reused for up to 5 cycles. Overall, the catalytic setup represented an environmentally‐friendly and feasible method for process development.
From Weed to Shining ‘Mystic Stars’: Value‐Added Applications of Siam Weed Derived Carbon Dots
Authors: Pallilavalappil Sreedhanya , Raveendran Varsha P. T. , Kizhakayil Renuka Neeroli
Published: May 2022

Herein, a common weed Chromolaena odorata (C. Odorata, Siam weed) is utilized as a precursor for synthesizing carbon dots (CO‐CDs) via a facile hydrothermal method devoid of further functionalization. CO‐CDs possess good water solubility, high photo stability, and intense blue fluorescence with a quantum yield of 2.56 %. Fluorescence of the as‐prepared carbon dots is quenched consequent to interaction with folic acid with high specificity, which enabled its service as an admirable probe for folic acid analysis. The limit of detection (LOD) of folic acid was noted to be 4.5 μM. The mechanism of fluorescence quenching is substantiated through the inner filter effect. The practical utility of the system is assured through analysis of folic acid in commercial samples, with an average range of 90–102 % recovery. Additionally, CO‐CDs are also established to be excellent radical scavengers.
Revitalisierung und Umbau einer denkmalgeschützten Scheune in Gerswalde, Uckermark
Authors: Mommert Jan , Fanelsa Niklas
Published: May 2022

Der ländliche Raum außerhalb größerer Städte mit ihren Speckgürteln erlebt derzeit eine Renaissance. Die Potenziale an Bausubstanz und örtlichen Strukturen des Gemeinwesens bleiben hierbei in Teilen oft ungenutzt – bieten sie doch einen Mehrwert abseits der üblichen architektonischen Lösungen für Wohn‐ oder Gewerbenutzungen. Das nachfolgend vorgestellte Praxisbeispiel beschreibt Prozess und konstruktive Maßnahmen der Wiedernutzbarmachung einer denkmalgeschützten und stark baufälligen Scheune. Mittels einer, hinsichtlich des minimalen zusätzlichen (Raum‐)Volumenverbrauchs, hocheffizienten Stahlkonstruktion konnte das Gebäude stabilisiert und durch Rückbau der Innenwände die Nutzungsflexibilität erhöht werden. Das Planungsteam setzte sich hierbei erfolgreich mit den gegenwärtig relevanten Themen des Baugeschehens und der Baukultur auseinander: Revitalisierung sowohl auf Gebäudeebene durch die Wiedernutzbarmachung einer Ruine als auch in dörflichem Maßstab durch die Ergänzung durch attraktives und v. a. aktives Gewerbe in der Gemeinde; re‐use von vorhandener grauer Energie; kreislaufgerechtes Bauen durch entsprechende Materialwahl und Fügungen; Reduzierung auf wesentliche bauliche Intervention zur Nutzbarmachung des Bestands; regionale Partizipation durch Einbindung lokaler Handwerksbetriebe in Workshops und in die bauliche Umsetzung; interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit bei gewerkeübergreifender und ganzheitlich simultaner Planung von Konzept, Detail und Bauzuständen.
Prediction of the local buckling strength and load‐displacement behaviour of SHS and RHS members using Deep Neural Networks (DNN) – Introduction to the Deep Neural Network Direct Stiffness Method (DNN‐DSM)
Authors: Müller Andreas , Taras Andreas
Published: May 2022

The traditional separation of analysis and verification during the structural design of steel structures is a known source of conservatism and inaccuracy, as the true deformation/rotation capacity of sections and the redistribution of internal forces in systems remains only vaguely known in many cases. This particularly affects structures made of high‐strength steel, since often sections would need to be classified as slender, thus disallowing the possibility to account for plasticity and stress redistribution. Shell‐element FEM‐models with material nonlinearities and imperfections would be suitable to overcome this separation and increase the accuracy and economy of designs, yet are computationally intensive and impractical for design of whole structures. In this paper, a novel approach for carrying out a computationally economical beam‐element analysis that accounts for the nonlinear load‐displacement behaviour of sections of various local slenderness is presented: the ”DNN‐DSM“, which makes use of machine learning techniques (deep neural networks – DNN) to predict the nonlinear stiffness matrix terms in a beam‐element formulation for implementation in the Direct Stiffness Method. Based on trained DNN models from an extensive pool of nonlinear (GMNIA) shell element results. The motivation, general features, and first implementations of this method in the sense of a ”proof‐of‐concept“, for the case of hollow‐section truss members, are presented in the paper, as well as an outlook on the method's on‐going, full implementation.
Experimental study on the correlation between mechanical properties of concrete and interface strength of coarse aggregate mortar under freezing–thawing
Authors: Gong Xu , Yu Hongfa , Wu Chengyou
Published: May 2022

The frost resistance of concrete is an essential evaluation index in cold areas; however, quantitative analyses of macroscopic mechanical properties and interfacial strength of concrete under freeze–thaw (F–T) action are scarce. Based on rapid F–T cycle tests of concrete, mortar, and interface specimens, with limestone, quartz, and basalt as variables, the internal damage and basic mechanical properties of specimens under F–T action were obtained. Furthermore, the quantitative relationship between the mechanical properties of the specimens, and between the internal damage and the basic mechanical properties of specimens under F–T action was established. The results showed that the properties of a coarse aggregate–mortar interface affected the mechanical properties and frost resistance of concrete specimens to a certain extent. After F–T action, the internal structure of the specimen tended to be loose, and the specimen was in a frozen state. The degree of damage on concrete specimens was more substantial than that on mortar ones. Quantitative analysis also indicated that the F–T erosion of concrete was mainly caused by the damage in the interface transition zone between the coarse aggregate and mortar.
Brain simulation augments machine‐learning–based classification of dementia
Authors: Triebkorn Paul , Stefanovski Leon , Dhindsa Kiret , Diaz‐Cortes Margarita‐Arimatea , Bey Patrik , Bülau Konstantin , Pai Roopa , Spiegler Andreas , Solodkin Ana , Jirsa Viktor , McIntosh Anthony Randal , Ritter Petra ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Computational brain network modeling using The Virtual Brain (TVB) simulation platform acts synergistically with machine learning (ML) and multi‐modal neuroimaging to reveal mechanisms and improve diagnostics in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

We enhance large‐scale whole‐brain simulation in TVB with a cause‐and‐effect model linking local amyloid beta (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET) with altered excitability. We use PET and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from 33 participants of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI3) combined with frequency compositions of TVB‐simulated local field potentials (LFP) for ML classification.

Results

The combination of empirical neuroimaging features and simulated LFPs significantly outperformed the classification accuracy of empirical data alone by about 10% (weighted F1‐score empirical 64.34% vs. combined 74.28%). Informative features showed high biological plausibility regarding the AD‐typical spatial distribution.

Discussion

The cause‐and‐effect implementation of local hyperexcitation caused by Aβ can improve the ML–driven classification of AD and demonstrates TVB's ability to decode information in empirical data using connectivity‐based brain simulation.
Choroid plexus carcinoma in a dog—Case report
Authors: de Witt Anika A. , Lewis Michelle , Schoeman Johan P.
Published: May 2022

Obtaining a conclusive definitive diagnosis for an intra‐ventricular tumour in a dog can be challenging. In doing so, all differential diagnoses should be considered. Differentiation between choroid plexus tumours (CPTs) (a choroid plexus papilloma, atypical choroid plexus papilloma or choroid plexus carcinoma) and gliomas, including ependymoma, oligodendroglioma and astrocytoma should be considered. Histopathologic features and immunohistochemistry are essential in the differentiation between intra‐ventricular tumours. A 4‐year‐old Boerboel dog presented with a left head tilt and a wide range of nonspecific clinical abnormalities not limited to weight loss, depression and marked bradycardia. MRI proved useful in providing a diagnosis of an intra‐ventricular tumour and demonstrated the potential of choroid plexus carcinomas (CPCs) to metastasize. In this case, the histological features displayed malignancy with invasion into the neuroparenchyma, drop metastasis and immunohistochemistry with E‐cadherin‐positive result that assisted with differentiation of CPC from other tumours.
Vanishing Gilbert damping limit problem of Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation
Authors: Song Wenjing , Yang Ganshan
Published: May 2022

The vanishing Gilbert damping limit problem of the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert (LLG) equation has been an open problem for a long time, and even the explicit dynamic solution of LLG equation has not been seen so far. In this paper, a necessary and sufficient condition for a solution of Landau–Lifshitz (LL) equation to be generalized to a solution of LLG equation is given. Moreover, some explicit dynamic solutions of LLG equation are constructed. These solutions show that a solution of LLG equation with Gilbert damping does not necessarily tend to a solution of LL equation without Gilbert damping in the sense of maximum modulus.
Constraints on cosmologies inside black holes
Authors: Fallows Seamus , Ross Simon F.
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We study the construction of holographic models with closed FRW cosmologies on the worldvolume of a constant-tension brane inside a Schwarzschild-AdS black hole. In dimensions d > 2, having a smooth Euclidean solution where the brane does not self-intersect limits the brane tension to T < T*, preventing us from realising a separation of scales between the brane and bulk curvature scales. We show that adding interface branes to this model does not relax the condition on the brane tension.
Applying rosemary extract and caffeic acid to modify the composition of Monastrell wines
Authors: Anaya Juan Alberto , Lizama Victoria , García María José , Álvarez Inmaculada
Published: May 2022

This work studies the effect of applying rosemary extract and caffeic acid on the polyphenolic and aromatic composition of Monastrell wines, as well as the influence of traditional winemaking or incorporating prefermentative maceration. For this purpose, three treatments were carried out in triplicate. In one of them, rosemary extract was applied on the clusters 10 days before harvest, caffeic acid was applied in the same way in another, and, finally, this acid was applied to grape before crushing. Each treatment was run by both traditional vinification and vinification with prefermentative maceration. After making wines, they were monitored for 12 months after fermentation. The application of rosemary extract, and that of caffeic acid but to a lesser extent, increased the color, the concentration of anthocyanins, and the percentage of polymerized anthocyanins, while prefermentation maceration gave rise to wines with a higher concentration of condensed tannins and polyphenols. Applying rosemary extract and caffeic acid in the vineyard also increased the concentration of esters and other compounds that favor wine aromatic quality, which was also enhanced by prefermentative maceration.
Phonatory function and characteristics of voice in recovering COVID-19 survivors
Authors: Yasien Dalia G. , Hassan Eman S. , Mohamed Hanan A.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the phonatory function of recovered COVID-19 survivors. The universal outbreak of COVID-19 led to the occurrence of otolaryngological manifestations that raised concerns about the assessment of the phonatory function in recovering patients.

Methods

This is a prospective, cross-sectional, case-controlled study carried out on 364 laboratory-confirmed non-critical COVID-19 survivors and 100 as healthy controls. The study participants were classified into two groups according to the disease severity. Group1 comprised 212 survivors who recovered from pneumonia and group 2 was made up of 152 survivors of severe pneumonia. All patients were subjected to an auditory perceptual assessment of the voice (APA) and Maximum Phonation Time (MPT) measurements.

Results

Phonasthenic manifestations were significantly more frequent in COVID-19 survivors than in controls (P < 0.000) with a higher percentage recorded among severe pneumonia survivors (87.5%) than among pneumonia survivors (60.8%) with a P value of < 0.01. Dysphonia and excessively soft loudness were significantly more common among survivors than among controls (P < 0.002 and P < 0.000, respectively) with no significant difference between the patient groups. The MPT was significantly shorter among survivors than among controls (P < 0.000). The mean MPT was 15.97 s in the control group, 10.72 s in the pneumonia group, and 8.88 s in the severe pneumonia group, with the differences between the groups being statistically significant (P < 0.000), suggesting a higher impairment of lung volume and phonatory function in severe cases.

Conclusions

Phonasthenia, dysphonia, and decreased MPT could be otolaryngological manifestations of COVID-19. Laryngeal function assessment should be considered in COVID-19 survivors.
New-onset and relapse of nephrotic syndrome following COVID-19 vaccination: a questionnaire survey in Japan
Authors: Nakagawa Naoki , Maruyama Shoichi , Kashihara Naoki , Narita Ichiei , Isaka Yoshitaka
Published: May 2022

Background

Recent clinical reports indicate a correlation between new-onset and relapse of nephrotic syndrome (NS) following coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in patients with glomerular diseases. However, there are no reports of a nationwide survey on NS following COVID-19 vaccination in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a web-based survey of council members of the Japanese Society of Nephrology (581 members, 382 facilities) to elucidate the relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and new-onset and relapse of NS.

Results

Following COVID-19 vaccination, 27 patients (male: 15, 55.6%) with new-onset (n = 6) and relapse (n = 21) of NS were reported. Of them, 12 (44.4%) patients were diagnosed with minimal change disease at the occurrence of NS. Five patients developed a slight increase in serum creatinine levels; however, none progressed to severe renal dysfunction.

Conclusion

Our findings clarify the clinical features of new-onset and relapse of NS following COVID-19 vaccination. Although there was no obvious progression to severe renal dysfunction, clinicians and pathologists should be aware that NS is a potential adverse effect of the vaccines.
Tail risk connectedness in clean energy and oil financial market
Authors: Foglia Matteo , Angelini Eliana , Huynh Toan Luu Duc
Published: May 2022

This research investigates the connectedness and the tail risk spillover between clean energy and oil firms, from January 2011 to October 2021. To this, we use the Tail-Event driven NETworks (TENET) risk model. This approach allows for a measurement of the dynamics of tail-risk spillover for each sector and firm. Hence, we can provide a detailed picture of the existing extreme relationships within these markets. We find that the total connection between the markets varies during the period analysed, showing how the uncertainty in oil price plays a critical role in the risk dynamics for oil companies. Also, we find that relationships between energy firms tend to be intrasectoral; that is, each sector receives (emits) risk from (to) itself. These results can have important practical implications for risk management and policymakers.
Assessing the contribution of farmers’ working conditions to productive efficiency in the presence of uncertainty, a nonparametric approach
Authors: Ait Sidhoum Amer
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the contribution of farmers’ working conditions to production efficiency under state-contingent production uncertainty. Directional distance function is used to estimate efficiency scores and input shadow prices for 180 Spanish crop farms in 2015. Results suggest that shadow prices vary considerably between the different states of nature, suggesting why incorporating the stochastic production specification is important. The present study provides evidence of the important contribution of working conditions to technical efficiency. Thus, improved working conditions have the potential to help farms to progress toward sustainable agriculture.
Prior Information in Frequentist Research Designs: The Case of Neyman’s Sampling Theory
Authors: Kubiak Adam P. , Kawalec Paweł
Published: May 2022

We analyse the issue of using prior information in frequentist statistical inference. For that purpose, we scrutinise different kinds of sampling designs in Jerzy Neyman’s theory to reveal a variety of ways to explicitly and objectively engage with prior information. Further, we turn to the debate on sampling paradigms (design-based vs. model-based approaches) to argue that Neyman’s theory supports an argument for the intermediate approach in the frequentism vs. Bayesianism debate. We also demonstrate that Neyman’s theory, by allowing non-epistemic values to influence evidence collection and formulation of statistical conclusions, does not compromise the epistemic reliability of the procedures and may improve it. This undermines the value-free ideal of scientific inference.
Single system for online monitoring and inspection of automated fiber placement with object segmentation by artificial neural networks
Authors: Brysch Marco , Bahar Mohammad , Hohensee Hans Christoph , Sinapius Michael
Published: May 2022

The reduction of material defects in the automated fiber placement process is one of the significant factors for manufacturing large and complex components more efficiently in the future. However, the monitoring of complex manufacturing processes usually requires complex sensor and computer systems that are often quite sensitive to disturbances and errors. New techniques such as image segmentation with neural networks provide a new approach to this problem and have the potential to solve complex processes faster and more robustly. In this study, a system is presented that performs monitoring, inspection and measurement tasks simultaneously in automated fiber placement processes. The system is based on the SiamMask network which is used for the automatic image processing. The artificial neural network is trained to recognize individual carbon fiber tapes and segment them for additional analysis. For the creation of the testing- and training data, an analytical approach is presented. The post-processing of the object segmentation, which is the primary output of the SiamMask network and the identification of individual tapes, provides accurate measurements which are demonstrated by an example. We show that image segmentation with modern approaches like SiamMask offers great potential to handle highly complex engineering tasks in a faster and more intelligent manner in comparison to conventional methods.
Retrospective, Landmark Analysis of Long-term Adult Morbidity Following Allogeneic HSCT for Inborn Errors of Immunity in Infancy and Childhood
Authors: Day James W. , Elfeky Reem , Nicholson Bethany , Goodman Rupert , Pearce Rachel , Fox Thomas A. , Worth Austen , Booth Claire , Veys Paul , Carpenter Ben , Hough Rachael , Gaspar H. Bobby , Titman Penny , Ridout Deborah , Workman Sarita , Hernandes Fernando , Sandford Kit , Laurence Arian , Campbell Mari , Burns Siobhan O. , Morris Emma C.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the treatment of choice for patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI). There is little published medical outcome data assessing late medical complications following transition to adult care. We sought to document event-free survival (EFS) in transplanted IEI patients reaching adulthood and describe common late-onset medical complications and factors influencing EFS.

Methods

In this landmark analysis, 83 adults surviving 5 years or more following prior HSCT in childhood for IEI were recruited. The primary endpoint was event-free survival, defined as time post-first HSCT to graft failure, graft rejection, chronic infection, life-threatening or recurrent infections, malignancy, significant autoimmune disease, moderate to severe GVHD or major organ dysfunction. All events occurring less than 5 years post-HSCT were excluded.

Results

EFS was 51% for the whole cohort at a median of 20 years post HSCT. Multivariable analysis identified age at transplant and whole blood chimerism as independent predictors of long-term EFS. Year of HSCT, donor, conditioning intensity and underlying diagnosis had no significant impact on EFS. 59 events occurring beyond 5 years post-HSCT were documented in 37 patients (45% cohort). A total of 25 patients (30% cohort) experienced ongoing significant complications requiring active medical intervention at last follow-up.

Conclusion

Although most patients achieved excellent, durable immune reconstitution with infrequent transplant-related complications, very late complications are common and associated with mixed chimerism post-HSCT. Early intervention to correct mixed chimerism may improve long-term outcomes and adult health following HSCT for IEI in childhood.
A Re-evaluation of Candidate Gene Studies for Well-Being in Light of Genome-Wide Evidence
Authors: van de Weijer Margot P. , Pelt Dirk H. M. , de Vries Lianne P. , Baselmans Bart M. L. , Bartels Meike
Published: May 2022

Ever since twin-family studies found that a substantial amount (± 40%) of the variation in well-being can be explained by genetic variation, several candidate genes have been proposed explaining this variation. However, these candidate gene and candidate gene-by-environment interaction studies have been surrounded by controversy regarding the validity and replication of their results. In the present study, we review the existing candidate gene literature for well-being. First, we perform a systematic literature search that results in the inclusion of 41 studies. After describing the results of the included studies, we evaluated the included candidate polymorphisms by (1) looking up the results for the studied candidate SNPs in a large well-being genome-wide association study, (2) performing association analyses in UK biobank (UKB) data for the candidate variable number tandem repeats (VNTR) and the APOE ε4 allele, and (3) studying possible candidate interactions with positive and negative environmental moderators using UKB data. We find no support for any of the candidate genes or candidate gene-environment interactions for well-being, with the exception of two SNPs that were chosen based on genome-wide evidence. While the generalizability of our findings is limited by our phenotype and environment definitions, we strongly advise well-being researchers to abandon the candidate gene approach in the field of well-being and move toward genome-wide approaches.
Digital technology and national entrepreneurship: An ecosystem perspective
Authors: Zhang Jianhong , van Gorp Désirée , Kievit Henk
Published: May 2022

Although the importance of digital technology has been recognized in the entrepreneurship literature, we know relatively little about how and to what extent it influences a nation’s entrepreneurial activities. Drawing on the concept of entrepreneurial ecosystem, this study developed a conceptual model to explain the impact of digital technology on national entrepreneurship and the interactions between digital technology and other ecosystem elements. The hypotheses are tested by using unbalanced panel data of 101 countries from 2001 to 2018. The empirical results show that the level of digital technology is positively associated with the output of national entrepreneurial ecosystems, and this positive relationship is strengthened in nations with a supportive culture, high-quality institutions, supportive policies, accessible resources, and well-developed service industries. The findings highlight the importance of digital technology, provide fresh insights into the interdependence between elements and causal mechanisms in national entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Academic artists’ engagement and commercialisation
Authors: Azagra-Caro Joaquín M. , Benito-Amat Carlos , Planells-Aleixandre Ester
Published: May 2022

Academic artists are researchers who create artistic work. They form part of the cultural life of cities and contribute to welfare not only through research but also through art. They may commercialise their art or use it to engage in scientific knowledge diffusion. We seek to understand the relationship between art, academic commercialisation and engagement, and detect barriers to academic art. The resources needed to develop and diffuse art in addition to conducting research may be incompatible with a career focused on science quality or an organisational logic based on teaching and pure basic research. We study the responses to a survey of some 7,000 Spanish academics and compare university researchers to other researchers. More than half of the researchers surveyed create artistic work; however, whereas engagement is the norm rather than the exception, commercialisation is rare. Working in a university and producing good quality science run counter to being an artist. The detrimental effect of science quality on being a commercial or engaged artist turns positive after a certain threshold, which suggests polarisation among academic artists. Among commercial artists, this polarisation seems to apply specifically to university researchers. We discuss the implications for the valorisation of art across knowledge transfer channels and in research evaluations.
CircKIF4A enhances osteosarcoma proliferation and metastasis by sponging MiR-515-5p and upregulating SLC7A11
Authors: He Pan , Liu Feng , Wang Zhijun , Gong Haoli , Zhang Meilan , Jia Zhen , Zhai Xiaohui
Published: May 2022

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are forms of non-coding RNAs that have crucial roles in regulation of various biological processes of several malignant tumors. circKIF4A is closely associated with malignant progression of a variety of cancers. However, the molecular mechanisms as well as roles of circKIF4A in osteosarcoma (OS) have not yet been clearly elucidated.

Methods

We evaluated the expression of circKIF4A in OS. Colony-formation, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), transwell and mice metastasis model assays were done to explore the roles of circKIF4A in vitro and in vivo. TargetScan database, double luciferase, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis (RT-qPCR), and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) were done to investigate the associated molecular mechanisms.

Results

In both OS cells and tissues, circKIF4A (hsa_circ_0007255) was found to be upregulated. In vitro and in vivo, circKIF4A knockdown markedly suppressed OS proliferation as well as metastasis. circKIF4A enhanced OS growth as well as metastasis by sponging miR-515-5p and by upregulating SLC7A11.

Conclusions

We identified the biological significance of the circKIF4A-miR-515-5p-SLC7A11 axis in OS cell proliferation and metastasis, which is important in OS monitoring and treatment. More studies on circKIF4A will inform on the diagnostic markers for early OS screening.

Graphical abstract