bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PRSS55 plays an important role in the structural differentiation and energy metabolism of sperm and is required for male fertility in mice
Authors: Zhu Feng , Li Wen , Zhou Xinli , Chen Xu , Zheng Meimei , Cui Yiqiang , Liu Xiaofei , Guo Xuejiang , Zhu Hui 
Published: January 2021

AbstractOrderly and stage‐specifically expressed proteins are essential for spermatogenesis, and proteases play a key role in protein activation and function. The present study aimed to investigate serine protease 55 (PRSS55), which was reported to play a role in sperm‐uterotubal junction (UTJ) migration and sperm‐zona pellucida (ZP) binding. We found that PRSS55 was specifically expressed in testicular spermatids and epididymal spermatozoa. By constructing knockout mice targeting all transcripts of Prss55, we demonstrated that deletion of Prss55 resulted in a serious decline of male fertility, with significantly increased sperm malformation and decreased sperm motility. In Prss55−/− mice, increased structural abnormality, including deficient “9 + 2” microtubules, damaged peripheral dense fibre, and defective mitochondrial cristae, were found in sperm. In addition, sperm showed decreased expression of electron transfer chain molecules and lower ATP contents. These could be the potential causes of the astheno/teratozoospermia phenotype of the Prss55−/− mice, and provided new evidence for the previously reported impaired sperm‐UTJ migration. Moreover, preliminary studies allowed us to speculate that PRSS55 might function by activating type II muscle myosin in the testis, which is involved in many processes requiring motivation and cytoskeleton translocation. Thus, PRSS55 is essential for the structural differentiation and energy metabolism of sperm, and might be a potential pathogenic factor in astheno/teratozoospermia. Our results provide an additional explanation for the male sterility of Prss55−/− mice, and further reveal the role of PRSS55.
Therapeutic implications of topical cetirizine 1% in treatment of male androgenetic alopecia: A case‐controlled study
Authors: Zaky Mohamed S. , Abo Khodeir Hassan , Ahmed Hebat‐Allah , Elsaie Mohamed L. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundAndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of alopecia in men. Cetirizine, a second‐generation H1 blocker, is known for its anti‐inflammatory properties and its ability to decrease prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) production.AimTo evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of topical cetirizine in male patients with AGA.MethodsTwo groups of 30 patients each (healthy males aged between 22 and 55 years) with different grades of AGA classified according to the Hamilton‐Norwood classification were recruited for this study. Group A subjects applied 1 mL of 1% topical cetirizine daily, while group B subjects served as controls and were instructed to apply 1 mL of a placebo solution for 6 months.ResultsDermoscopic assessment revealed significantly higher hair regrowth among the cetirizine‐treated group (P < .001). The patients’ satisfaction was significantly higher among the cetirizine‐treated group (P < .001).ConclusionThe current study highlights a potential role cetirizine might have in treating AGA. It should be noted that studies are lacking in this regard and more randomized and controlled trials are warranted in order to confirm or refute such early findings.
Mainstream or Special Educational Settings: The Views of Spanish People With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Nieto Cristina , Moriña Anabel 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis article aims to contribute to the debate on how different educational contexts can facilitate the inclusion or exclusion of people with intellectual disabilities (ID). We carried out a qualitative study based on the principles of inclusive research with 36 Spanish adults with ID. The data were gathered through individual interviews, which were transcribed, summarized, and adapted for later analysis and coding with participants. Together with participants, we coded the interviews into two main categories: “mainstream schools” and “special schools.” The results revealed the experiences of people with ID in mainstream schools, resource rooms, and special education schools, analyzing their preferences for regular or special contexts. The main conclusions drawn suggest that people with ID had both negative and positive experiences of inclusion at mainstream schools. Nevertheless, they preferred regular contexts, valued the help provided by SEN support teachers, and highlighted the importance of adjusting the curriculum to students' educational needs. They also emphasized the need for greater empathy from classmates at mainstream schools.
Wealth inequality and aggregate demand
Authors: Ederer Stefan , Rehm Miriam 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe paper investigates how including the distribution of wealth changes the demand effects of redistributing functional income. It develops a model with an endogenous wealth distribution and shows that the endogenous rise in wealth inequality resulting from a redistribution toward profits weakens the growth effects of this redistribution. Consequently, a wage‐led regime becomes more strongly wage‐led. A profit‐led regime on the other hand becomes less profit‐led and there may even be a regime switch––in this case the short‐run profit‐led economy becomes wage‐led in the long run due to the endogenous effects of wealth inequality. The paper thereby provides a possible explanation for the instability of demand regimes over time.
Postoperative infectious complications in elderly patients after elective surgery in China: results of a 7‐day cohort study from the International Surgical Outcomes Study
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Hui , Ye Hui , Xie Guohao , Wu Shuijing , Song Shengwen , Cheng Baoli , Fang Xiangming ,   On behalf the International Surgical Outcomes Study (ISOS) group in China
Published: January 2021

AbstractAimDespite initiatives to increase elderly patients’ access to surgical treatments, the prevalence and impact of postoperative infectious complications (PICs) in elderly patients in China are poorly described. The aim of our study was to describe PICs and associated mortality in elderly patients undertaking elective surgery in China.MethodsWe analyzed data about elderly patients from China during the International Surgical Outcomes Study (ISOS), a 7‐day prospective cohort study of outcomes after elective surgery in in‐patient adults. All elderly patients (age ≥60 years) from 28 hospitals in China included in the ISOS study were included in this study as well. A review of 2014 elderly patients who underwent elective surgery in April 2014 was conducted.ResultsOf 2014 elderly patients, 209 (10.4%) developed at least one postoperative complication. Infectious complications were most frequent, affecting 154 patients (7.6%); there was one death, or 0.6% 30‐day mortality, which was a significantly higher rate than among patients without PICs (0%). The most frequent infectious complication was superficial surgical‐site infection (3.3%). The length of hospital stay was longer in elderly patients with PICs than in those without PICs. Moreover, a total of 142 elderly patients (7.1%) were routinely sent to critical care after surgery, of whom 97 (68.3%) developed PICs. Compared to elderly patients admitted to a standard ward, those admitted to critical care immediately after surgery had a higher postoperative complication rate and critical care admission rate to treat complications.ConclusionsThe present prospective, multicentre study found that 7.6% of elderly patients in China had PICs after elective surgery that could prolong hospital stay and increase 30‐day mortality. The clinical effectiveness of admission to critical care after surgery on elderly patients is not identified. Initiatives to increase elderly patients’ access to surgical interventions should also enhance safe perioperative care to reduce PICs in China.
Design and Experimental Characterization of a Cable-Driven Elbow Assisting Device
Authors: Laribi Med Amine , Ceccarelli Marco 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
This paper presents the design and an experimental characterization of CADEL, a cable-driven elbow assisting device. The device design is presented to be portable and user-oriented solution and its kinematic model is formulated for functionality analysis. A first prototype and its experimental setup are discussed with the peculiarities of the novel solutions. Two operation modes are investigated with and without load in experimental testing. The performance characterization and feasibility are discussed referring to both the numerical and experimental results.
Multiple Fixed Pole-Based Rational Approximation for Fractional Order Systems
Authors: Wei Yiheng , Zhang Hui , Hou Yuqing , Cheng Kun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Our topic is the rational approximation of fractional order systems under Riemann–Liouville definition. This is a venerable, vast, fundamental area which attracts ongoing attention in coming years. In this work, the multiple fixed-pole scheme is developed. First, new schemes with different relative degree are developed to approximate fractional operators. Then, the fractional order is extended to the case of α&gt;1. A discussion is made on the uniformity between the differentiator-based method and the integrator-based method. Afterward, the multiplicity of pole/zero is further generalized. In this framework, the nonzero initial instant and nonzero initial state are considered. Four examples are finally provided to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed algorithms.
A Two-Step Optimization-Based Iterative Learning Control for Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Adlakha Revant , Zheng Minghui 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
This paper presents a two-step optimization-based design method for iterative learning control and applies it onto the quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) trajectory tracking problem. Iterative learning control aims to improve the tracking performance through learning from errors over iterations in repetitively operated systems. The tracking errors from previous iterations are injected into a learning filter and a robust filter to generate the learning signal. The design of the two filters usually involves nontrivial tuning work. This paper presents a new two-optimization design method for the iterative learning control, which is easy to obtain and implement. In particular, the learning filter design problem is transferred into a feedback controller design problem for a purposely constructed system, which is solved based on H-infinity optimal control theory thereafter. The robust filter is then obtained by solving an additional optimization to guarantee the learning convergence. Through the proposed design method, the learning performance is optimized and the system's stability is guaranteed. The proposed two-step optimization-based design method and the regarding iterative learning control algorithm are validated by both numerical and experimental studies.
Geothermal Energy R&D: An Overview of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office
Authors: Hamm Susan G. , Anderson Arlene , Blankenship Douglas , Boyd Lauren W. , Brown Elizabeth A. , Frone Zachary , Hamos Ian , Hughes Hannah J. , Kalmuk Matthew , Marble Alethia , McKittrick Alexis M.W. , Metcalfe Elisabet , Morse Lindsay J. , Nieto Angel , Payne Jonathan , Porse Sean L. , Prisjatschew Alexandra , Stutz George R. , Tasca Coryne , Vandermeer William , Watson Gerry , Weathers Michael , Winick Jeffrey 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Geothermal energy can provide answers to many of America’s essential energy questions. The United States has tremendous geothermal resources, as illustrated by the results of the DOE GeoVision analysis, but technical and non-technical barriers have historically stood in the way of widespread deployment of geothermal energy. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office within the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has invested more than $470 million in research and development (R&D) since 2015 to meet its three strategic goals: (1) unlock the potential of enhanced geothermal systems, (2) advance technologies to increase geothermal energy on the U.S. electricity grid, and (3) support R&D to expand geothermal energy opportunities throughout the United States. This paper describes many of those R&D initiatives and outlines future directions in geothermal research.
Study on the Unplugging Technology Through Electric Explosion Controllable Shock Wave
Authors: Wang Jin , Xue Qilong , Du Xiaoyou , Cao Yanfeng , Yu Jifei , Zhou Peng , Jiang Haiwei 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
For the increasing well plugging in oilfield development, a new unplugging technology is presented in this paper for the downhole plugging by using high voltage pulse wave. Based on the mechanism analysis, the circuit resistance model and the empirical calculation formula of the pressure shock wave are obtained, and the influence of the same current waveform on the pressure shock wave generated by the wire explosion is preliminarily studied in laboratory experiments under different energy conditions. A corresponding unplugging evaluation test device was designed to simulate the approximate downhole reservoir conditions in the places where the shock wave occurs to test the approximate downhole stress conditions of the core, and to test the permeability changes after different shock waves acted on the core. The results show that the peak value of the pressure shock wave is proportional to the effect of well unplugging, which verifies the feasibility of the unplugging and increasing permeability technology of the electric explosion-controlled shock wave. This technology can quickly dredge the oil seepage channel, increase well permeability, thus increasing the well productivity, which has a broad application prospect and important practical significance.
Comparing the usefulness of a new algorithm to measure visual field using the variational Bayes linear regression in glaucoma patients, in comparison to the Swedish interactive thresholding algorithm
Authors: Murata Hiroshi , Asaoka Ryo , Fujino Yuri , Matsuura Masato , Hirasawa Kazunori , Shimada Satoshi , Shoji Nobuyuki 
Published: January 2021

Background/aimsWe previously reported that the visual field (VF) prediction model using the variational Bayes linear regression (VBLR) is useful for accurately predicting VF progression in glaucoma (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2014, 2018). We constructed a VF measurement algorithm using VBLR, and the purpose of this study was to investigate its usefulness.Method122 eyes of 73 patients with open-angle glaucoma were included in the current study. VF measurement was performed using the currently proposed VBLR programme with AP-7700 perimetry (KOWA). VF measurements were also conducted using the Swedish interactive thresholding algorithm (SITA) standard programme with Humphrey field analyser. VF measurements were performed using the 24–2 test grid. Visual sensitivities, test–retest reproducibility and measurement duration were compared between the two algorithms.ResultMean mean deviation (MD) values with SITA standard were −7.9 and −8.7 dB (first and second measurements), whereas those with VBLR-VF were −8.2 and −8.0 dB, respectively. There were no significant differences across these values. The correlation coefficient of MD values between the 2 algorithms was 0.97 or 0.98. Test–retest reproducibility did not differ between the two algorithms. Mean measurement duration with SITA standard was 6 min and 02 s or 6 min and 00 s (first or second measurement), whereas a significantly shorter duration was associated with VBLR-VF (5 min and 23 s or 5 min and 30 s).ConclusionVBLR-VF reduced test duration while maintaining the same accuracy as the SITA-standard.
PI3K-driven HER2 expression is a potential therapeutic target in colorectal cancer stem cells
Authors: Mangiapane Laura Rosa , Nicotra Annalisa , Turdo Alice , Gaggianesi Miriam , Bianca Paola , Di Franco Simone , Sardina Davide Stefano , Veschi Veronica , Signore Michele , Beyes Sven , Fagnocchi Luca , Fiori Micol Eleonora , Bongiorno Maria Rita , Lo Iacono Melania , Pillitteri Irene , Ganduscio Gloria , Gulotta Gaspare , Medema Jan Paul , Zippo Alessio , Todaro Matilde , De Maria Ruggero , Stassi Giorgio 
Published: January 2021

ObjectiveCancer stem cells are responsible for tumour spreading and relapse. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression is a negative prognostic factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) and a potential target in tumours carrying the gene amplification. Our aim was to define the expression of HER2 in colorectal cancer stem cells (CR-CSCs) and its possible role as therapeutic target in CRC resistant to anti- epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy.DesignA collection of primary sphere cell cultures obtained from 60 CRC specimens was used to generate CR-CSC mouse avatars to preclinically validate therapeutic options. We also made use of the ChIP-seq analysis for transcriptional evaluation of HER2 activation and global RNA-seq to identify the mechanisms underlying therapy resistance.ResultsHere we show that in CD44v6-positive CR-CSCs, high HER2 expression levels are associated with an activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway, which promotes the acetylation at the regulatory elements of the Erbb2 gene. HER2 targeting in combination with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors induces CR-CSC death and regression of tumour xenografts, including those carrying Kras and Pik3ca mutation. Requirement for the triple targeting is due to the presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts, which release cytokines able to confer CR-CSC resistance to PI3K/AKT inhibitors. In contrast, targeting of PI3K/AKT as monotherapy is sufficient to kill liver-disseminating CR-CSCs in a model of adjuvant therapy.ConclusionsWhile PI3K targeting kills liver-colonising CR-CSCs, the concomitant inhibition of PI3K, HER2 and MEK is required to induce regression of tumours resistant to anti-EGFR therapies. These data may provide a rationale for designing clinical trials in the adjuvant and metastatic setting.
Manager-oriented intervention to reduce absence among pregnant employees in the healthcare and daycare sector: a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Begtrup Luise Moelenberg , Malmros Per , Brauer Charlotte , Soegaard Toettenborg Sandra , Flachs Esben Meulengracht , Hammer Paula Edeusa Cristina , Bonde Jens Peter 
Published: January 2021

ObjectiveThe aim was to test if targeting managers with an educational intervention reduces absence among pregnant employees.MethodsThe study was a non-blinded cluster randomised trial conducted in hospitals and daycare institutions from two administrative Danish Regions and two Danish municipalities. Clusters (work units) were assigned randomly and non-blinded to either (1) intervention, where all managers were invited to participate in a 3-hour seminar addressing needs and options for adjustment of work in pregnancy, or (2) control, with practice as usual. The primary outcome based on payroll data was long-term pregnancy-related absence, defined as ≥12.5% cumulated absence during pregnancy weeks 1–32. Intention-to-treat analysis was applied using mixed logistic regression.ResultsNinety work units were included (56 hospital departments and 34 daycare units) with 451 pregnant employees in the intervention group and 464 in the control group. Work units had on average 11 pregnant employees with no difference between the groups. 103 of the 216 invited managers (48%) participated in a the 3-hour seminar. In the intervention group, 154 (34%) had long-term pregnancy-related absence during pregnancy weeks 1–32 vs 166 (36%) in the control group. Relative odds of having long-term pregnancy-related absence, when being in the intervention group, was 1.06 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.58), with an interclass correlation coefficient of 0.07.ConclusionAn educational intervention targeting managers did not reduce pregnancy-related absence among pregnant employees.Trial registration numberNCT03002987.
Short-term and long-term impact of diagnosed and undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on coronary artery bypass grafting surgery
Authors: Gatta Francesca , Haqzad Yama , Loubani Mahmoud 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectivesThis study sought to compare clinical outcomes between three categories of patients: non-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diagnosed COPD and undiagnosed COPD in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.MethodsA single-centred retrospective study from January 2010 to December 2019. Primary outcomes were postoperative complications, length of ITU admission and in-hospital staying. Secondary outcomes were reintervention rate, in-hospital and long-term mortality.ResultsA total of 4020 patients were analysed and divided into three cohorts: non-COPD (group A) (74.55%, n=2997), diagnosed COPD (group B) (14.78%, n=594) and undiagnosed COPD (group C) (10.67%, n=429). The rate of respiratory complications was noted in this order: group B&gt;group C&gt;group A (p 0.00000002). Periooperative acute kidney injury and wound complications were higher in group B (p 0.0004 and p 0.03, respectively). Prolonged in-hospital staying (days) resulted in group B (p 0.0009). Finally, long-term mortality was statistically higher in group B and C compared with group A (p 0.0004). No difference in long-term mortality was noted in relation to the expected FEV1% in group B (p 0.29) and group C (p 0.82).ConclusionsIn CABG surgery, COPD is a well-known independent risk factor for morbidity. Patients with preoperative spirometry results indicative of COPD result in the same outcomes of known patients with COPD. As a result of that, greater value should be given to the preoperative spirometry in the EuroSCORE. Finally, the expected FEV1% appears not be a predictor for long-term survival.