bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adolescents and young adult acute myeloid leukemia outcomes at pediatric versus adult centers: A population‐based study
Authors: Gupta Sumit , Baxter Nancy N. , Sutradhar Rinku , Pole Jason D. , Nagamuthu Chenthila , Lau Cindy , Nathan Paul C. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundAdolescents and young adult (AYA) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) outcomes remain poor. The impact of locus of care (LOC; adult vs pediatric) in this population is unknown.ProcedureThe IMPACT cohort comprises detailed data for all Ontario, Canada, AYA aged 15‐21 years diagnosed with AML between 1992 and 2012, linked to population‐based health administrative data. We determined the impact of LOC on event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS), treatment‐related mortality (TRM), and relapse/progression.ResultsAmong 140 AYA, 51 (36.4%) received therapy at pediatric centers. The five‐year EFS and OS for the whole cohort were 35.0% ± 4.0% and 53.6% ± 4.2%. Cumulative doses of anthracycline were higher among pediatric center AYA [median 355 mg/m2, interquartile range (IQR) 135‐492 vs 202 mg/m2, IQR 140‐364; P = 0.003]. In multivariable analyses, LOC was not predictive of either EFS [adult vs pediatric center hazard ratio (HR) 1.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8‐2.2, P = 0.27] or OS (HR 1.0, CI 0.6‐1.6, P = 0.97). However, patterns of treatment failure varied; higher two‐year incidence of TRM in pediatric centers (23.5% ± 6.0% vs.10.1% ± 3.2%; P = 0.046) was balanced by lower five‐year incidence of relapse/progression (33.3% ± 6.7% vs 56.2% ± 5.3%; P = 0.002).ConclusionsAYA AML survival outcomes did not vary between pediatric and adult settings. Causes of treatment failure were different, with higher intensity pediatric protocols associated with higher TRM but lower relapse/progression. Careful risk stratification and enhanced supportive care may be of substantial benefit to AYA with AML by allocating maximal treatment intensity to patients who most benefit while minimizing the risk of TRM.
Pediatric pulmonology 2019 year in review: rare and diffuse lung disease
Authors: Gower William A. , Vece Timothy J. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractPediatric Pulmonology publishes original research, review articles, and case reports on topics related to a wide range of children's respiratory disorders. Here we review manuscripts published in 2019 in this journal and others on (1) anatomic lung, airway, and vascular malformations, (2) children's interstitial lung disease, and (3) primary ciliary dyskinesia and non‐cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.
Synthetic Protocols for Aromatic Nitration: A Review
Authors: Patel Siddharth S. , Patel Dhaval B. , Patel Hitesh D. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractNitration of aromatic compounds represents a powerful and widely used transformation that allows introducing nitro group into aromatic systems. New synthetic strategies for aromatic nitration are deeply needed, including highly efficient and selective nitration methods. Aromatic nitration plays an important part in the industry, as the main use of nitration is to produce important products such as dyes & intermediate compounds, drugs, and Agrochemicals. The electrophilic aromatic nitration is most studied and important transformation in industrial process. This review will describe different possible methodologies that apply to this fundamental transformation with special attention to the most recent development that lasted from 2017–2020. The main pros and cons of recent nitration methods are briefly described with their specific reaction mechanism and highlighting the most important feature of the present aromatic nitration method.
The Role of Oxidation during the Synthesis of Silver‐Glutathione Monolayer‐Protected Clusters
Authors: Zaker Yeakub , Bhattarai Badri , Brewer Timothy R. , Bigioni Terry P. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe synthesis of metal monolayer‐protected clusters (MPCs) is still not well understood. It was recently shown that the mechanism of MPC formation involves sequential growth, wherein small MPCs form first and then grow into progressively larger sizes. The sequential growth model does not entirely explain all experimental observations, however. For example, the evolution of MPC product sizes is found to be a non‐monotonic function of reaction kinetics, whereas the sequential growth model predicts monotonic behavior. Size evolution of MPCs is studied during synthetic reactions for a wide range of kinetics and it is found that all syntheses began with the sequential growth of MPCs but also found that growth transitioned to degradation if reduction kinetics are fast enough to give way to ambient oxidation. It is identified that MPCs can degrade via oxidation during syntheses and in a manner that is opposite to sequential growth, namely by forming smaller known MPC species from larger MPC species. This sequential degradation process therefore played an important role in determining final MPC products for reactions with fast reduction kinetics. Together, complementary oxidative and reductive processes provide a more complete description of MPC synthesis as well as new tools for controlling metal MPC synthesis.
An assessment of factors affecting the elastic modulus of concrete
Authors: Sun Ryan Wok , Fanourakis George C. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe elastic modulus of concrete is required for the design of reinforced concrete structures, including in predicting creep deformation. Current models that estimate the elastic modulus (E), primarily on the basis of concrete compressive strength, vary in their accuracy and have hence proved to be inadequate to apply to the wide range of concretes. In this investigation, the E values of 108 concrete specimens which differed in aggregate type, cementitious material (binder) type, strength and curing age were measured. Seven factors were assessed for their degree of influence on concrete's elasticity, namely, aggregate type, aggregate percentage content, cementitious binder type, curing age, strength, water/cement ratio and density. The aggregate type, in particular, correlated significantly with the E value. In addition, the influence of density on E was highly significant (P = 2.39 × 10−5%). Concrete compressive strength, by contrast, was less influential than the aggregate type and density, and did not generally significantly correlate with the E value. This study provided additional confirmation that concrete strength is an unreliable primary factor on which to base concrete E estimations, as is the current common practice. It is therefore recommended that models to estimate E values of concrete should be based primarily on the type of aggregate used and the density of concrete.
Mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes: At the crossroad between familiar and sporadic Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Kangrun , Zhang Wenling 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAlzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and is incurable. The widely accepted amyloid hypothesis failed to produce efficient clinical therapies. In contrast, there is increasing evidence suggesting that the disruption of mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAM) is a critical upstream event of AD pathogenesis. Here, we review MAM's role in some AD symptoms such as plaque formation, tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic loss, aberrant lipid synthesis, disturbed calcium homeostasis, and abnormal autophagy. At last, we proposed that MAM plays a central role in familial AD (FAD) and sporadic AD (SAD).
Canine isolated hypoaldosteronism
Authors: Raj Jennifer , Sanchez Lara Armando , Bell Rory , Tappin Simon 
Published: February 2021

AbstractA 2‐year‐old female neutered English bull terrier presented with a history of behavioural change (depression, lethargy, avoidance of light), a mild increase in thirst and urination and two episodes of collapse. General physical and neurological examinations were unremarkable. Initial investigations documented hyponatremia and hyperkalaemia. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test excluded hypocortisolism. Aldosterone concentrations obtained pre‐ and post‐ACTH stimulation were both undetectably low. Paired renin and aldosterone assays confirmed hyperreninemic hypoaldosteronism.The patient was treated with oral mineralocorticoid supplementation which resulted in a rapid improvement in both clinical signs and electrolyte concentrations; she remained well on treatment during a 5‐year follow‐up period.Isolated hypoaldosteronism is infrequently reported in the dog but should be considered in cases where hypoadrenocorticism is suspected based on electrolyte abnormalities, but hypocortisolism has been excluded.
Fabrication and characterization of a water purification system using activated carbon and graphene nanoplatelets: Toward the development of a nanofiltration matrix
Authors: Zhao Mengdi , Yang Mai Tser , Singh Mandeep , Overturf Tatiana , Gao Yanan , Silva Hernandez Gustavo , Ahmed Saquib , Banerjee Sankha 
Published: February 2021

AbstractResearchers are trying to tackle water scarcity in numerous ways. One of those ways is the use of nanotechnology in water processing and purification. The current work involves the fabrication and optimization of activated carbon and graphene‐based hybrid water purification system. Five different concentrations of methylene blue and deionized water (DI) dye solutions were used, and they were filtered in three different cycles. For the potential usage on the consumer side, a small‐scale, low‐cost water filter is developed using activated carbon, commercial filter paper, and graphene nanoplatelets. The filter paper is used to hold mixtures of the activated carbon and graphene nanoplatelets within the water filter. The conductivity, TDS, and pH are measured for the feed water and the processed water using an Oakton EcoTestr and Apera Instruments PH60 Premium Pocket pH meter, respectively. A UV‐Vis spectrometer is used to measure the absorption of solutions. The distribution and adsorption of the dye particles were observed by scanning electron microscopy.Practitioner points

These results show the effectiveness of the system in the removal of dye particles above a given particle size.
The concentration of the dye solution decreased after every cycle.
The GnPs filtration system more effectively dye particles as compared to the filtration system containing only Activated carbon.
UV‐Vis spectroscopy results showed that the methylene blue dye particles decreased after every cycle.
This research can open a broad area of projects toward waste/wastewater practice for particles above a certain particle size.
Is the natural UV zone important for successful captive propagation of the Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis); are different UVB irradiance exposures that generate a similar dose equally successful?
Authors: Ferguson Gary W. , Gehrmann William H. , Vaughan Matthew S. , Kroh Glenn C. , Chase Deborah , Slaets Kriss , Holick Michael F. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractWhile we generally understand the optimal ultraviolet B (UVB) environment for the growth and reproduction of female Panther Chameleons Furcifer pardalis, we do not know the relative importance of UVB irradiance and dose for optimal husbandry outcomes. Accordingly, we experimented with Panther Chameleon females to test the hypothesis that UVB dose (irradiance × exposure duration) determines the outcome, regardless of the combination of UVB irradiance and exposure duration generating the dose. We varied UVB irradiance and exposure duration across treatment groups while keeping dose similar and within a range previously documented to result in reproductive success. The growth rate, age of maturity, and measurable vitamin D status were not significantly different among the treatment groups. Individuals in all groups produced viable eggs that successfully hatched. Thus, we found some support for the hypothesis that the UVB dose determines the outcome regardless of UVB irradiance. However, mean egg vitamin D3 concentration and percent hatching were higher in the highest UVB irradiance group, despite similar doses among the three groups. Preliminary field data reveal that this species occupies UV irradiance Zone 4 in Madagascar, the highest zone for reptiles recorded. Only the irradiance of the high UVB irradiance group in our experiment approached this zone and resulted in the best reproductive success. Biosynthesis of vitamin D3 and provisioning to eggs is more efficient when exposure to UVB irradiance is similar to that in their natural environment. Establishing an optimal UVB environment, based on knowledge of the natural UVB environment, is important for the propagation of Panther Chameleons in captivity.
Constraints, Stakeholders, and Framing Goals in Energy Master Planning Between Neighborhood and District
Authors: Haase Matthias , Baer Daniela 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper analyzes and contrasts the constraints, stakeholders, and framing goals that must be considered when Energy Master Planning (EMP) is conducted for communities in seven countries. The analysis is based on findings from seven countries participating in the International Energy Agency’s “Energy in Buildings and Communities Program Annex 73”. The analysis covers design constraints such as emissions, sustainability criteria, and resilience goals, regulations and directives, regional and local limitations, such as available energy types, local conditions, and various levels of stakeholders, as well as community objectives. An analysis of the various constraints on different planning levels was done, and the key stakeholders were identified. They can be characterized by different governance structures and thereby stakeholder constellations. Mapping of the stakeholders involved provides insights in further constraints resulting into issues within the EMP that will need to be addressed for multi-owner, multi-stakeholder neighborhoods and districts. With a closer look at a case study in Elverum, Norway, the paper identifies constraints related to stakeholders involved and their impact on applying EMP.
Energy System Models for City Climate Mitigation Plans—Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Unluturk Burcu , Krook-Riekkola Anna 
Published: February 2021

AbstractMany cities around the world have adopted climate neutrality targets, and, to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, they need climate action plans. Energy system optimization models (ESOMs) can be used as tools to support their energy transitions. ESOMs have been in use at the national level for several years and also have recently been used at the city level. Even though several researchers have focused on how city ESOMs can be developed, the literature lacks a discussion of the challenges that are faced in data collection during model development. In this paper, we share the challenges encountered in the model development, as well as in the scenario development and recommend practical solutions for overcoming these challenges. The following three challenges were identified and discussed in the model development process: (a) data availability and quality; (b) communication; and (c) knowledge and background of civil servants and researchers. The main challenges in the scenario development were: (a) parameter selection and (b) complexity. It was found that explanation of the terminology used in ESOMs, presentation of the model structure and preliminary base-year results were crucial actions for overcoming challenges during model development. During the scenario development, collaboration between modelers and civil servants when reviewing parameter combinations and working with preliminary scenario results were decisive strategies for improving the civil servants’ understanding of ESOMs. Complementarily, it was found that continuous communication between the researcher and the civil servant and good comprehension of the model on the municipality's side helped improve the usefulness of ESOMs in cities’ energy transitions.
City Assessment Tool to Measure the Impact of Public Policies on Smart and Sustainable Cities. The Case Study of the Municipality of Alcobendas (Spain) Compared with Similar European Cities
Authors: Sisto Raffaele , García López Javier , Lumbreras Martín Julio , Mataix Aldeanueva Carlos , Ramos Ferreiro Linos 
Published: February 2021

AbstractData analytics is a key resource to analyze cities and to find their strengths and weaknesses to define long-term sustainable strategies. On the one hand, urban planning is geared to adapting cities’ strategies towards a qualitative, intelligent, and sustainable growth. On the other hand, institutions are geared towards open governance and collaborative administration models. In this context, sustainability has become a global concern for urban development, and the sustainable development goals (SDGs), defined by United Nations, are the framework to be followed to define the new city goals and to measure the advances of the policies implemented over recent years. The main objective of this research is to explain the methods and results of the application of a city assessment tool for measuring the impact of public policies on the socioeconomic and environmental structure of a city. It addresses the case study of the evaluation of the strategic plan “Diseña 2020” of the municipality of Alcobendas (Madrid, Spain, with 116.037 inhabitants), the document used to communicate the actions needed to achieve the city goals during the planning exercise. A selection of urban indicators has been aligned with the SDGs defined in the Agenda 2030 to develop a tool for the measurement of the impacts of policies in economic, social, and ecological terms. Through this set of indicators, the tool is able to quantify the impact of the policies on the city and the SDGs and to support the decision-making processes of the administration. The set of urban indicators is divided into five areas: economic development and employment, sustainable development, open government, social responsibility, and quality of life. The data evolution, across the recent years 2012–2018, is used to monitor and benchmark the effects of the applied policies. In addition, Alcobendas can be compared with other Spanish and European cities with similar characteristics; it makes possible assessing the achievement of the city’s strategic areas, incorporating the current trends and fostering the SDGs. Thanks to the quantitative comparable results and the objective approach, this research shows a methodology based on indicators that could be applied and scaled to other cities to generate a common framework for measuring the impact of public policies on cities.
Snap4City Platform to Speed Up Policies
Authors: Mitolo Nicola , Nesi Paolo , Pantaleo Gianni , Paolucci Michela 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn the development of smart cities, there is a great emphasis on setting up so-called Smart City Control Rooms, SCCR. This paper presents Snap4City as a big data smart city platform to support the city decision makers by means of SCCR dashboards and tools reporting in real time the status of several of a city’s aspects. The solution has been adopted in European cities such as Antwerp, Florence, Lonato del Garda, Pisa, Santiago, etc., and it is capable of covering extended geographical areas around the cities themselves: Belgium, Finland, Tuscany, Sardinia, etc. In this paper, a major use case is analyzed describing the workflow followed, the methodologies adopted and the SCCR as the starting point to reproduce the same results in other smart cities, industries, research centers, etc. A Living Lab working modality is promoted and organized to enhance the collaboration among municipalities and public administration, stakeholders, research centers and the citizens themselves. The Snap4City platform has been realized respecting the European Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and it is capable of processing every day a multitude of periodic and real-time data coming from different providers and data sources. It is therefore able to semantically aggregate the data, in compliance with the Km4City multi-ontology and manage data: (i) having different access policies; and (ii) coming from traditional sources such as Open Data Portals, Web services, APIs and IoT/IoE networks. The aggregated data are the starting point for the services offered not only to the citizens but also to the public administrations and public-security service managers, enabling them to view a set of city dashboards ad hoc composed on their needs, for example, enabling them to modify and monitor public transportation strategies, offering the public services actually needed by citizens and tourists, monitor the air quality and traffic status to establish, if impose or not, traffic restrictions, etc. All the data and the new knowledge produced by the data analytics of the Snap4City platform can also be accessed, observing the permissions on each kind of data, thanks to the presence of an APIs complex system.
The hemogenic endothelium: a critical source for the generation of PSC-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Lange Lucas , Morgan Michael , Schambach Axel 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn vitro generation of hematopoietic cells and especially hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are subject to intensive research in recent decades, as these cells hold great potential for regenerative medicine and autologous cell replacement therapies. Despite many attempts, in vitro, de novo generation of bona fide HSCs remains challenging, and we are still far away from their clinical use, due to insufficient functionality and quantity of the produced HSCs. The challenges of generating PSC-derived HSCs are already apparent in early stages of hemato-endothelial specification with the limitation of recapitulating complex, dynamic processes of embryonic hematopoietic ontogeny in vitro. Further, these current shortcomings imply the incompleteness of our understanding of human ontogenetic processes from embryonic mesoderm over an intermediate, specialized hemogenic endothelium (HE) to their immediate progeny, the HSCs. In this review, we examine the recent investigations of hemato-endothelial ontogeny and recently reported progress for the conversion of PSCs and other promising somatic cell types towards HSCs with the focus on the crucial and inevitable role of the HE to achieve the long-standing goal—to generate therapeutically applicable PSC-derived HSCs in vitro.