bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Heat Treatment and Additive LiF on the Properties of Solid‐State Electrolyte of Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3
Authors: Lv Jinhang , Zheng Ruilin , Lv Peng , Wei Wei
Published: July 2020

A solid electrolyte of LAGP [Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3] contained 0.5 wt% LiF was prepared by using low‐volatile raw materials. The effects of different heat treatment conditions (750–900 °C, 4–10 h) and additive (LiF) on the ionic conductivity, structural morphology, and crystal transformation process were investigated in detail. EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopies) showed that the ionic conductivity of LAGP contained 0.5 wt% LiF had a highest value of 3.17 × 10−4 S cm−1 with low activation energy (0.31 eV) after treating 825 °C for 6 h, more than LAGP of 2.45 × 10−4 S cm−1. DSC analysis and SEM images indicated that adding a small amount of LiF to LAGP not only can lower the glass transition temperature (from 513 °C to 507 °C) and crystallization temperature (from 622 °C to 605 °C), but also can modify the grain boundary and increase the relative density of LAGP (from 95.8% to 97.7%).
Bench‐Stable S‐(Monofluoromethyl)sulfonium Salts: Highly Efficient C‐ and O‐Regioselective Monofluoromethylation of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Qin Wen‐Bing , Liu Jian‐Jian , Huang Zhongyan , Li Xin , Xiong Wei , Chen Jia‐Yi , Liu Guo‐Kai
Published: July 2020

The new bench‐stable electrophilic monofluoromethylating reagents, S‐(monofluoromethyl)‐S‐phenyl‐S‐(2,4,6‐trialkoxyphenyl)sulfonium salts, were successfully developed, which were readily prepared from inexpensive starting materials 1,3,5‐trimethoxybenzene and monofluoromethyl phenyl sulfoxides. The reactivity of these reagents was demonstrated through the C‐ and O‐regioselective monofluoromethylation of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds. Employing this reagent, a wide range of β‐keto esters easily underwent O‐regioselective monofluoromethylation reaction to afford their corresponding O‐monofluoromethylated products in good to excellent yields under mild reaction conditions. Contrastively, various malonates were smoothly transferred into their corresponding C‐monofluoromethylated products in good to excellent yields under the standard reaction conditions.
Demise of the Middle Jurassic carbonate platform: Responses to sea‐level fall in the Qiangtang Basin, Eastern Tethys
Authors: Gao Yuan , Fu Xiugen , Li Yi , Wan Youli , Wang Zhongwei , Song Chunyan , Shen Hualiang , Lin Fei
Published: July 2020

Many studies have been focused on the development of carbonate platforms, however, the controlling factors of their evolution are still unclear. The QTKT1 well, drilled in 2016 by the Chengdu Center of the China Geological Survey at the Northern Qiangtang Depression, has allowed further studies of Jurassic environments and resources in the Eastern Tethys. In this study, we investigate variations in spectral gamma‐ray logs and CaCO3 content and perform a cyclostratigraphic analysis in the Xiali mudstones and Buqu limestones and Xiali mudstone to analyse causes for the demise of the Middle Jurassic carbonate platform in the Qiangtang Basin. The concentrations of Th, K, U, and Th/U and Th/K ratios increase suddenly from the Buqu Formation to the Xiali Formation, suggesting increased terrigenous input and/or decreased carbonate production rates. Cyclostratigraphic analysis detects the existence of astronomical cycles and an abrupt change in sediment accumulation rates within the target intervals. Combined with sedimentary facies analysis, our research suggests that the demise of the Middle Jurassic carbonate platform may have been caused by terrigenous detrital inputs into the Qiangtang Basin. High‐frequency sea‐level fluctuations increased terrestrial inputs and carbonate production rates at the orbital scale. The regression happened before the facies change and controlled terrestrial inputs at a larger scale, which resulted in the demise of the carbonate platforms. Contrary to the Western Tethys, a regression took place from the Bathonian to Callovian ages in the Qiangtang Basin, Eastern Tethys, which increased the exposure levels. The large exposure led to significant erosion, accelerated detrital input from the land to the Northern Qiangtang Depression, reduced carbonate production as well as resulted in the demise of the Buqu carbonate platform. The relative sea‐level fall is mainly the result of the regional tectonism during this period.
Risk Stratification Based on Chronic Liver Failure Consortium Acute Decompensation Score in Patients With Child‐Pugh B Cirrhosis and Acute Variceal Bleeding
Authors: Lv Yong , Wang Zhengyu , Li Kai , Wang Qiuhe , Bai Wei , Yuan Xulong , Yu Tianlei , Niu Jing , Yang Zhiping , Zhu Xuan , Zhao Jianbo , Xue Hui , Jiang Zaibo , Zhuge Yuzheng , Zhang Chunqing , Sun Junhui , Ding Pengxu , Ren Weixin , Li Yingchun , Zhang Kewei , Zhang Wenguang , Guo Wengang , Luo Bohan , Li Xiaomei , Yuan Jie , Han Na , Zhu Ying , He Chuangye , Yin Zhanxin , Fan Daiming , Han Guohong
Published: July 2020

Background and Aims

Optimal candidates for early transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in patients with Child‐Pugh B cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding (AVB) remain unclear. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that risk stratification using the Chronic Liver Failure Consortium Acute Decompensation score (CLIF‐C ADs) may be useful to identify a subgroup at high risk of mortality or further bleeding that may benefit from early TIPS in patients with Child‐Pugh B cirrhosis and AVB.

Approach and Results

We analyzed the pooled individual data from two previous studies of 608 patients with Child‐Pugh B cirrhosis and AVB who received standard treatment between 2010 and 2017 in China. The concordance index values of CLIF‐C ADs for 6‐week and 1‐year mortality (0.715 and 0.708) were significantly better than those of active bleeding at endoscopy (0.633 [P < 0.001] and 0.556 [P < 0.001]) and other prognostic models. With X‐tile software identifying an optimal cutoff value, patients were categorized as low risk (CLIF‐C ADs <48), intermediate risk (CLIF‐C ADs 48‐56), and high risk (CLIF‐C ADs >56), with a 5.6%, 16.8%, and 25.4% risk of 6‐week death, respectively. Nevertheless, the performance of CLIF‐C ADs for predicting a composite endpoint of 6‐week death or further bleeding was not satisfactory (area under the receiver operating characteristics curve [AUC], 0.588). A nomogram incorporating components of CLIF‐C ADs and albumin, platelet, active bleeding, and ascites significantly improved the prediction accuracy (AUC, 0.725).

Conclusions

In patients with Child‐Pugh B cirrhosis and AVB, risk stratification using CLIF‐C ADs identifies a subgroup with high risk of death that may derive survival benefit from early TIPS. With improved prediction accuracy for 6‐week death or further bleeding, the data‐driven nomogram may help to stratify patients in randomized trials. Future external validation of these findings in patients with different etiologies is required.
Examining the causal relationship between globalization and energy consumption in MINT countries: Evidence from bootstrap panel granger causality
Authors: Fahimi Amin , Olasehinde‐Williams Godwin , Akadiri Seyi Saint
Published: July 2020

This paper examines the causal relationships between globalization and energy consumption for MINT member countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey) over the period 1970–2015, while controlling for the effect of gross domestic product. To control for common unobserved shocks and country‐specific heterogeneity inherent in panel data analyses, we employ the cross‐sectional augmented ADF and IPS tests to confirm the panel stationarity properties. We test for causal relations at country and panel levels through the Emirmahmutoglu & Kose, Economic Modelling, 2011, 28(3), 870–876 panel causality test for heterogeneous mixed panels. The causality results show that globalization is strongly related to energy consumption in MINT countries. Specifically, at the country level, we detect feedback causality between globalization and energy consumption in Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey, and find unidirectional causality running from globalization to energy consumption in Mexico. At the panel level, we also detect feedback causality between both variables. In general, our results lend credence to previous findings on globalization‐driven energy consumption hypothesis for MINT countries. Useful policy insights are also provided on the basis of our findings.
Financial innovation and economic growth: Empirical evidence from China, India and Pakistan
Authors: Nazir Muhammad Rizwan , Tan Yong , Nazir Muhammad Imran
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the causal relationship between financial innovation and economic growth in China, India, and Pakistan over the period of 1970–2016. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound testing and Granger causality‐based Error Correction Model (ECM), this study finds that financial innovation generally has a positive and statistically significant impact on economic growth in the short‐run and long‐run. These results show that in the long‐run, monetary management and credit flow to the private sector play an essential role in economic growth. The trade openness and gross capital formation contribute considerably to the economic growth in China, India, and Pakistan. For robustness, this study also applies the Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (DOLS) and Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (FMOLS) method. The findings of this study suggest that the financial sector plays an essential role in supporting innovation activity in Asian countries.
Direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing companies tell their customers to ‘see a genetic counselor'. How do genetic counselors feel about direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing?
Authors: Hsieh Vicky , Braid Tamara , Gordon Erynn , Hercher Laura
Published: July 2020

Professional societies, the FDA, and many direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing (DTC‐GT) companies have highlighted the value of counseling from a medical professional with genetics expertise in order to enhance the value and minimize the risks associated with DTC‐GT. However, there is limited information available identifying genetic counselors' own views on DTC‐GT, their willingness to counsel consumers based on DTC‐GT results, and their experiences to date seeing DTC‐GT consumers in a clinical setting. We surveyed genetic counselors accessed through mailing lists associated with the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Response rate was estimated to be 12.2% (n = 482). A majority of all respondents (56.4%, n = 263) described themselves as feeling negatively or very negatively toward DTC‐GT; only 6.9% (n = 32) described themselves as feeling positively or very positively. While 90.9% of respondents (n = 398) believed that DTC‐GT would be improved with the involvement of genetic counselors, only 31.2% agreed or strongly agreed that they are comfortable providing counseling to DTC‐GT consumers (n = 142). Clinical counseling of DTC‐GT consumers is not routine but it is also not uncommon; 40.1% of all respondents (n = 189) have seen at least one consumer in clinic for the sole purpose of reviewing DTC‐GT results. The results of our study suggest that most respondents would be more accepting of DTC‐GT if genetic counseling was a part of the process, but the majority of counselors do not feel comfortable providing this service.
Synthesis and antimycobacterial screening of new 4‐(4‐(1‐benzyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)quinoline derivatives
Authors: Thakare Prashant P. , Walunj Yogesh , Chavan Abhijit , Bobade Vivek D. , Sarkar Dhiman , Mhaske Pravin C.
Published: July 2020

A new series of 4‐(4‐(1‐benzyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)quinoline (6a‐t) have been synthesized by a click reaction of 4‐(4‐ethynyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)quinoline (4a‐d) with a substituted benzyl azide (5a‐e). The starting alkyne derivatives 4a‐d are obtained from Bestmann‐Ohira reaction of 1‐phenyl‐3‐(quinolin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde and dimethyl(1‐diazo‐2‐oxopropyl)phosphonate. The newly synthesized compounds are screened against M. tuberculosis H37Ra dormant and active, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas fluorescence, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis strains at 30 μg/mL concentration. Most of the screened compounds showed good to moderate antibacterial activity against S. aureus, B. subtilis, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra strains. The synthesized derivatives of quinolinyl‐pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde and quinolinyl‐pyrazole‐4‐ethyne reportd good to moderate activity against both strains of M. tuberculosis H37Ra. Ten derivatives of quinolinyl‐pyrazole presented good activity against B. subtilis. These results suggested that further optimization and development of quinolinyl‐pyrazolyl‐1,2,3‐triazole moeity could serve as lead compounds for antimycobacterial activity.
Coagulation dysfunction is associated with severity of COVID‐19: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhu Jieyun , Pang Jielong , Ji Pan , Zhong Zhimei , Li Hongyuan , Li Bocheng , Zhang Jianfeng , Lu Junyu
Published: July 2020

To systematically analyze the blood coagulation features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients to provide a reference for clinical practice. An electronic search in PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, Scopus, CNKI, WanFang Data, and VIP databases to identify studies describing the blood coagulation features of COVID‐19 patients from 1 January 2020 to 21 April 2020. Three reviewers independently screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias of included studies, then, the meta‐analysis was performed by using Stata 12.0 software. Thirty‐four studies involving 6492 COVID‐19 patients were included. Meta‐analysis showed that patients with severe disease showed significantly lower platelet count (weighted mean differences [WMD]: −16.29 × 109/L; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −25.34 to −7.23) and shorter activated partial thromboplastin time (WMD: −0.81 seconds; 95% CI: −1.94 to 0.33) but higher D‐dimer levels (WMD: 0.44 μg/mL; 95% CI: 0.29‐0.58), higher fibrinogen levels (WMD: 0.51 g/L; 95% CI: 0.33‐0.69) and longer prothrombin time (PT; WMD: 0.65 seconds; 95% CI: 0.44‐0.86). Patients who died showed significantly higher D‐dimer levels (WMD: 6.58 μg/mL; 95% CI: 3.59‐9.57), longer PT (WMD: 1.27 seconds; 95% CI: 0.49‐2.06) and lower platelet count (WMD: −39.73 × 109/L; 95% CI: −61.99 to −17.45) than patients who survived. Coagulation dysfunction is common in severe COVID‐19 patients and it is associated with severity of COVID‐19.
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection causes pulmonary shunt by vasodilatation
Authors: Brito‐Azevedo Anderson , Pinto Eduardo Costa , de Cata Preta Corrêa Gabriel Angelo , Bouskela Eliete
Published: July 2020

Patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) may present a significant hypoxemia. The exactly mechanism of such hypoxemia in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is not well described. It has been suggested that microthrombosis contributes to this mechanism, increasing pulmonary dead space. However, dead spaces would not be sensible to oxygen supplementation, and also, enlargement of pulmonary vessels it has been evidenced. Shunt mechanism by vasodilatation, instead, could explain decubitus dependence in oxygenation by blood redistribution as observed in these patients, and moreover, would be more sensible to oxygen supplementation than dead spaces. We hypothesized that SARS‐CoV‐2 causes an intrapulmonary vascular dilatation (IPVD), determining a shunt mechanism by vasodilatation. We performed contrast‐enhanced transthoracic echocardiography to search IPVD shunt in patients with confirmed COVID‐19, hospitalized in an intensive care unit. Ten patients were recruited; one patient was excluded due to low quality of echocardiographic image, and nine patients were included. IPVD was found in seven (78%) patients, with different grades, including patient with normal compliance and the one without invasive ventilation. We demonstrated that shunt by IPVD is present among patients with COVID‐19, and this mechanism is probably implicated in significant hypoxemia observed.
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in persons living with HIV: A single center prospective cohort
Authors: Maggiolo Franco , Zoboli Fabio , Arosio Marco , Valenti Daniela , Guarneri Davide , Sangiorgio Lorena , Ripamonti Diego , Callegaro Annapaola
Published: July 2020

Information about severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in HIV‐infected individuals is scarce. In this prospective study, we included HIV (human immunodefeciency virus)‐infected individuals (people living with HIV [PLWHIV]) with confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and compared them with PLWHIV negative for SARS‐CoV‐2. We compared 55 cases of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with 69 asymptomatic PLWHIV negative for SARS‐CoV‐2 reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and/or serology. There was no significant difference between SARS‐CoV‐2 positive or negative patients for age distribution, gender, time with HIV infection, nadir CD4‐cell counts, type and number of co‐morbidities, current CD4 and CD8 counts and type of anti‐HIV therapy. Positive patients presented with a median of three symptoms (interquartile range, 1‐3). Most common symptoms were fever (76%), dyspnea (35%), anosmia (29%) non‐productive cough (27%), fatigue 22%), and ageusia (20%). Ten patients (18%) were completely asymptomatic. Four (7.2%) subjects died of coronavirus disease 2019. Factors significantly (P < .05) associated with death included age and number of co‐morbidities, while time from HIV infection and lower current CD4 counts were significant only in univariate analysis. HIV‐infected individuals are not protected from SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or have a lower risk of severe disease. Indeed, those with low CD4 cell counts might have worse outcomes. Infection is asymptomatic in a large proportion of subjects and this is relevant for epidemiological studies.
Weight, height, weight change, and risk of incident atrial fibrillation in middle‐aged men and women
Authors: Johansson Cecilia , Lind Marcus M. , Eriksson Marie , Johansson Lars
Published: July 2020

Background

Anthropometric factors are reported to be risk factors for atrial fibrillation (AF), but it is unclear whether weight change in mid‐life is associated with AF. We aimed to study the possible associations of weight, height, and weight change with the risk of incident AF in men and women.

Methods

Our study cohort included 108 417 persons (51% women) who participated in a population‐based health examination in northern Sweden at 30, 40, 50, or 60 years of age. The health examination included weight and height measurement and collection of data regarding cardiovascular risk factors. Within this cohort, 40 275 participants underwent two health examinations with a 10‐year interval. We identified cases with a first‐ever diagnosis of AF through the Swedish National Patient Registry.

Results

During a total follow‐up of 1 469 820 person‐years, 5154 participants developed incident AF. The mean age at inclusion was 46.3 years, and mean age at AF diagnosis was 66.6 years. After adjustment for potential confounders, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area (BSA) were positively associated with risk of incident AF in both men and women. Among participants who underwent two health examinations 10 years apart, 1142 persons developed AF. The mean weight change from baseline was a gain of 4.8%. Weight gain or weight loss was not significantly associated with risk of incident AF.

Conclusions

Height, weight, BMI, and BSA showed positive associations with risk of incident AF in both men and women. Midlife weight change was not significantly associated with AF risk.
Predicting complete winter ice coverage at Lake George, New York
Authors: Watson Campbell D. , Auger Guillaume , Tewari Mukul , Treinish Lloyd A. , Johnston Kenneth E.
Published: July 2020

Ice records at Lake George, an oligotrophic and dimictic freshwater lake in upstate New York, United States reveal that it has failed to freeze over completely 13 times since 1990. This transition from annual to intermittent ice cover is analogous to many other dimictic freshwater lakes globally. Over 60 years of meteorological observations from a nearby airport are analysed and a complicated picture emerges when considering the specific characteristics of each year. For example, Lake George froze over in 1983 and 2007 despite the air temperature having a net warming effect on the lake in the month prior to ice‐in. Simple machine learning classifiers are trained using local weather data to predict the presence of complete ice coverage on Lake George and are found to perform adequately compared to observations, with one configuration having an accuracy of 91%. Using downscaled data from a coupled‐climate model through to 2,100, projections with the trained classifiers suggest complete ice coverage will be a phenomenon of the past by the mid‐to‐late 21st Century. Furthermore, by 2080–2,100 the mean air temperature is projected to warm up to +8.0 C under Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5. These projections will be of concern to the communities and policy makers of Lake George responsible for the management of the ecological and socio‐economic systems.
Leveraging the opportunities of mixed methods in research synthesis: Key decisions in systematic mixed studies review methodology
Authors: Ferguson Sarah L. , Kerrigan Monica Reid , Hovey Katrina A.
Published: July 2020

This article identifies and unpacks three key decision points in a systematic mixed research synthesis, a mixed methods approach to research synthesis. The research community has increasingly recognized the value of synthesis studies in expanding our understanding of phenomena. Mixed‐methodology broadly has also gained ground as a pragmatic approach to research investigations. By leveraging mixed methods approaches in a synthesis review, systematic mixed studies review (SMSR) enables a broad and integrated summary of existing research on the topic. Yet SMSRs can be challenging to undertake given the complexity of working with research synthesis and mixed methods requirements. This methods guidance article presents information to assist novice researchers in navigating these critical decisions in SMSRs, and provides examples of how these were addressed by researchers in the two case studies provided. Implications of the SMSRs for the research community and future research directions are also discussed.
Use of a magnetic covalent organic framework material with a large specific surface area as an effective adsorbent for the extraction and determination of six fluoroquinolone antibiotics by HPLC in milk sample
Authors: Guan Shuping , Wu Hao , Yang Liu , Wang Zhuliang , Wu Jianmin
Published: July 2020

A magnetic covalent organic framework material was synthesized with a core‐shell structure using a simple solvothermal method. It was prepared with Fe3O4 as the magnetic core, covalent organic framework as the shell, which synthesized from 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol and p‐phenylenediamine by Schiff base reaction. Transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption were used to characterize magnetic adsorbent. It has showed a large specific surface area (505.6 m2/g), which can provide many adsorption sites. Moreover, the saturation magnetization value was 48.4 emu/g enough to be separated by external magnet. Six kinds of fluoroquinolones (enoxacin, fleroxacin, ofloxacin, norfloxacin, pefloxacin, and lomefloxacin) were extracted by magnetic solid phase extraction with the magnetic adsorbent. High‐performance liquid chromatography detects the entire adsorption and desorption process to further evaluate the optimal extraction and desorption conditions. Under the optimal chromatographic conditions, this method showed a low detection limit (0.05 to 0.20 μg/L), good linearity in the range of 0.5 to 200 μg/L, and the enrichment factor reaches 115.5‐127.3. The spiked recovery of the fluoroquinolones in milk sample ranged from 90.4 to 101.2%.
Low expression of transferrin receptor 2 predict poor prognosis in gastric cancer patients
Authors: Zhao Qian‐Fu , Ji Jun , Cai Qu , Wang Chao , Shi Min , Zhou Chen‐Fei , Zhu Zheng‐Gang , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2020

This study was to detect the expression level of transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2) in gastric cancer and to analyze its value in predicting the prognosis of gastric cancer patients. Real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR) was applied to detect the mRNA expression of TfR2 in gastric cancer tissues and paired adjacent nontumorous tissues. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting were used to determine the protein expression of TfR2 in gastric cancer, and the relationship with the prognosis of gastric cancer patients was analyzed. The results were: (1) The mRNA and protein levels of TfR2 in gastric cancer tissues were remarkably lower than those in adjacent nontumorous gastric tissue (P < .05). (2) Clinicopathological analysis showed that the expression level of TfR2 was significantly correlated with TNM stage of patients (P = .047). (3) The results of univariate survival analysis showed that histological grade, T stage, N stage, M stage, Lauren's classification, and TfR2 expression level influenced the overall survival of gastric cancer patients. Multivariate survival analysis showed that low TfR2 expression (HR = 1.671, 95%CI: 1.006‐2.774, P = .047), poor differentiation (HR = 2.123, 95%CI: 1.188‐3.795, P = .011), and M1 stage (HR = 8.541, 95%CI: 3.416‐21.353, P < .001) were independent risk factors affecting the overall survival of gastric cancer patients. In conclusion, TfR2 exhibited low expression in gastric cancer tissue, and is an independent prognostic factor of gastric cancer patients.
Macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF) gene polymorphisms are associated with disease susceptibility and with circulating MIF levels in active non‐segmental vitiligo in patients from western Mexico
Authors: Garcia‐Orozco Alejandra , Martinez‐Magaña Itzel Alejandra , Riera‐Leal Annie , Muñoz‐Valle José Francisco , Martinez‐Guzman Marco Alonso , Quiñones‐Venegas Ricardo , Sánchez‐Zuno Gabriela Athziri , Fafutis‐Morris Mary
Published: July 2020

Background

The macrophage migration inhibiting factor (MIF) is a protein that promotes the activation of immune cells and the production of other proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IFN‐γ, which have proposed to play an essential role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. The study aimed to assess the association between MIF polymorphisms (−794 CATT5‐8 and −173 G>C), MIF in situ expression, and MIF serum concentrations with susceptibility and disease activity in patients with non‐segmental vitiligo (NSV) from western Mexico.

Methods

The study included 111 patients with NSV and 201 control subjects. Genotyping was performed by conventional PCR (−794 CATT5‐8) and PCR‐RFLP (−173 G>C) methods. MIF mRNA expression was quantified by real‐time PCR and MIF serum concentrations were determined by ELISA kit. Histopathological samples were analyzed by automated immunohistochemistry.

Results

The MIF polymorphisms were associated with NSV susceptibility. Serum concentrations of MIF were higher in patients with active NSV and correlated negatively with the years of evolution. The depigmented skin from patients with active vitiligo showed a high expression of MIF.

Conclusion

MIF polymorphisms increase the risk of NSV in the western Mexican population. The serum concentrations of MIF and in situ expression are associated with active NSV.
Distinct Metabolomic Profile Because of Gestational Diabetes and its Treatment Mode in Women with Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Mokkala Kati , Vahlberg Tero , Houttu Noora , Koivuniemi Ella , Laitinen Kirsi
Published: July 2020

Objective

Whether the presence of gestational diabetes (GDM) and its treatment mode influence the serum metabolic profile in women with overweight or obesity was studied.

Methods

The serum metabolic profiles of 352 women with overweight or obesity participating in a mother‐infant clinical study were analyzed with a targeted NMR approach (at 35.1 median gestational weeks). GDM was diagnosed with a 2‐hour 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

The metabolomic profile of the women with GDM (n = 100) deviated from that of women without GDM (n = 252). Differences were seen in 70 lipid variables, particularly higher concentrations of very low‐density lipoprotein particles and serum triglycerides were related to GDM. Furthermore, levels of branched‐chain amino acids and glycoprotein acetylation, a marker of low‐grade inflammation, were higher in women with GDM. Compared with women with GDM treated with diet only, the women treated with medication (n = 19) had higher concentrations of severalizes of VLDL particles and their components, leucine, and isoleucine, as well as glycoprotein acetylation.

Conclusions

A clearly distinct metabolic profile was detected in GDM, which deviated even more if the patient was receiving medical treatment. This suggests a need for more intense follow‐up and therapy for women with GDM during pregnancy and postpartum to reduce their long‐term adverse health risks.
Preparation and characterization of polybenzoxazine foam with flame retardancy
Authors: Zhou Xiumiao , Li Yuanyuan , Li Jingjing , Wang Yufei , Liu Chao , Wang Lei , Li Shiyang , Song Yangyang
Published: July 2020

Polybenzoxazine foam was successfully prepared using phenolic resin as modifier and catalyst. The structural properties, curing behavior, thermal stability, cellular structure, mechanical properties and flame retardancy properties of the foam were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), compression tests, limiting oxygen index (LOI) tests and cone calorimetry test, respectively. The experimental results indicated that both phenolic resin and imidazole catalyzed the curing process of benzoxazine and that the curing temperature decreased obviously. The polybenzoxazine foam loaded with different contents of phenolic resin showed an isotropic cellular structure with relative densities ranging from 116 to 185 kg/m3, and the compressive strength and compressive modulus could reach as high as 0.512 and 7.21 MPa, respectively. In addition, the cone calorimeter test results showed that the average heat release rate (av‐HRR), total heat release (THR) and total smoke production (TSP) of PBZ‐7.5 reduced, which indicated that the polybenzoxazine has satisfactory flame retardancy with the addition of phenolic resin.
Defining palliative opportunities in pediatric patients with bone and soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Ebelhar Jonathan , Allen Kristen , DeGroote Nicholas , Wasilewski‐Masker Karen , Brock Katharine E.
Published: July 2020

Background

Pediatric patients with sarcomas experience significant morbidity and compromised quality of life throughout their course. These times could be viewed as opportunities for increased subspecialty palliative care (PC). Systematically defining opportunities for additional PC support has not occurred in pediatric oncology. The frequency, timing, and associated factors for palliative opportunities in pediatric patients with sarcomas are unknown.

Methods

A priori, nine palliative opportunities were defined (disease progression or relapse, admission for symptoms, social concerns or end‐of‐life, intensive care or bone marrow transplant admission, phase 1 trial or hospice enrollment, do‐not‐resuscitate status). A single‐center retrospective review was conducted on patients aged 0‐18 years with bone/soft tissue sarcomas who died from January 1, 2012 to November 30, 2017. Demographic, disease, and treatment data were collected. Descriptive statistics were performed. Opportunities were evaluated over quartiles from diagnosis to death.

Results

Patients (n = 60) had a mean of nine (SD = 4) palliative opportunities with the majority occurring in the last quartile of the disease course. Number and type of opportunities did not differ by demographics or diagnosis. Eighteen patients (30%) received PC consultation a median of 2.2 months (interquartile range [IQR] 11.5) prior to death. Consultation was unrelated to diagnosis or total opportunities.

Conclusions

Patients with sarcomas incur repeated events warranting subspecialty PC, which increase toward the end‐of‐life. Increased PC utilization may help decrease suffering and bolster family coping during these episodes. Additional work should further refine if opportunities differ across cancers, and how to incorporate this framework into clinical oncology care to prevent missed opportunities for PC.
Outcomes with nondose‐dense chemotherapy for Ewing sarcoma: A practical approach for the developing world
Authors: Parambil Badira Cheriyalinkal , Vora Tushar , Sankaran Hari , Prasad Maya , Bakshi Asish , Puri Ajay , Gulia Ashish , Qureshi Sajid , Laskar Siddhartha , Khanna Nehal , Shah Sneha , Ramadwar Mukta , Kembhavi Seema , Chinnaswamy Girish , Banavali Shripad
Published: July 2020

Background

The current multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of Ewing sarcoma has improved cure rates, with contemporary dose‐dense chemotherapy attaining 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) of 73% in localized cases. Dose‐intense and dose‐dense chemotherapy is difficult in the majority of resource‐limited settings with limited access to optimal supportive care. We report on patients with Ewing sarcoma treated on EFT‐2001, a nondose‐dense chemotherapy protocol.

Procedure

A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients (<15 years) with Ewing sarcoma treated with curative intent during January 2013‐June 2017 with an institutional ethics committee‐approved nondose‐dense protocol (EFT‐2001). Local therapy was planned after 9‐12 weeks of chemotherapy with metastatic sites addressed with radiotherapy. The study assessed outcomes and prognostic factors.

Results

We analysed 200 patients with M:F ratio of 1.27:1 and metastases in 41 patients (20.5%). At a median follow up of 41.5 months (range 4.5‐81.8 months), respective 3‐year EFS and overall survival (OS) of the whole cohort is 65.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.1‐71.7%) and 79.3% (95% CI: 72.8‐84.5%); for localized and metastatic cohort, 70.9% (95% CI: 62.9‐77.5%) and 82.8% (95% CI: 75.7‐89.0%); and for metastatic cohort, 42.8% (95% CI: 28.0‐58.6%) and 65.3% (95% CI: 47.7‐78.3%). Presence of residual disease (morphologic/metabolic) on positron emission tomography‐computed tomography scan done 3 months post definitive radiotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] 7.92 [95% CI: 3.46‐18.14]) and delay in any form of local control >4 months (HR 3.42 [95% CI: 1.32‐8.89]) affected outcomes. Nonrelapse mortality during treatment was 6.5%, mainly due to cardiomyopathy (3.0%) and bacterial sepsis (1.5%). Cardiotoxicity was seen in 11.5% of patients.

Conclusions

Nondose‐dense chemotherapy provides good outcomes with manageable toxicities in a multidisciplinary treatment approach, while reducing cumulative drug exposures in the developing world where dose‐intense or dose‐dense chemotherapy could potentially increase toxicity, and hence seems a feasible approach in resource‐limited settings. Presence of any residual disease post definitive radiotherapy or delay in local control portends poor outcome.
In vitro degradation of self‐reinforced poly(lactic acid) with beta‐tricalcium phosphate composite prepared by equal channel angular pressing
Authors: Li Hong , Xue Feng , Bai Jing , Bai Xiaomin , Ye Wei , Zhang Linna , He Qingsong , Ju Jia , Ding Hongyan
Published: July 2020

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) are biodegradable biomaterials that can be used in the field of bone fixation. This article aims to investigate the effect of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) on the mechanical property, physical properties and in vitro degradation behaviors of PLA/β‐TCP (0, 10, and 20 wt%) composites. The bending strength of PLA, PLA/10TCP, and PLA/20TCP composites processed by ECAP were 158, 154, and 137 MPa, respectively, which is higher than its initial samples by 62.8%, 32.7%, and 55.6%. The degradation experiment was carried out in Sorensen's phosphate‐buffered solution at 37°C for 24 weeks. The weight loss rate of PLA/β‐TCP composites processed by ECAP increased fastly but its mechanical property decreased slowly in contrast with hot‐pressed samples. With the degradation proceeding, the existence of β‐TCP resulted in the formation of whisker‐like hydroxyapatite on the surface of PLA/10TCP and PLA/20TCP composites. The oriented fiber structure of PLA matrix disappeared and its internal structure became loose after soaking for 24 weeks. The fiber structure of the PLA/β‐TCP composites formed in the process of ECAP not only increased the initial strength and the degradation rate, but also maintained the mechanical property of the samples in the degradation process. In the meanwhile, the existence of β‐TCP could inhibit the degradation of PLA matrix composites. This study on the in vitro degradation of self‐reinforced PLA/β‐TCP composites prepared by ECAP will provide theoretical support for the development of bone fixation.
Effect of morphology and particle size of bismuth ferrite filler on the surface insulation of epoxy resin composites
Authors: Shao Shuai , Tian Yi , Zhou Huahao , Song Yanze , Lian Hongliang , Wu Han , Duan Qijun , Xie Qing
Published: July 2020

The morphology and particle size of nanofillers have specific effects on their micro‐distribution parameters in the polymer matrix and macro‐properties of composites. In this study, bismuth ferrite nanoparticles (BFO) with different particle sizes were prepared by the sol‐gel route, and bismuth ferrite nanofibers (fBFO) were synthesized by electrospinning method, then were blended with epoxy resin as a filler to prepare the epoxy composites with multiple filler concentrations. The morphology and crystal structure of the filler were characterized by SEM and XRD. The effect of filler morphology and particle size on the surface insulation of composites was studied. We found that fBFO nanofibers have better dispersion in epoxy matrix, and fBFO/EP composites have more excellent surface insulation properties. Meanwhile, as the particle size of the filler increases, the flashover voltages of the BFO/EP composites increase. Finally, the simulation model of electric field inside EP composites were established and the trap distribution was calculated by isothermal surface potential decay method. The influence mechanism of filler morphology and particle size on the surface insulation properties of EP composites was further analyzed. BFO particles and nanofibers as fillers blended with epoxy resin have a great engineering application potential.
Breaking down buy‐in: Can lessons from social psychology increase teacher use of proactive behavior management?
Authors: Robertson Rachel E.
Published: July 2020

Disruptive student behavior poses significant challenges for teachers and is associated with negative student outcomes. Research shows that teacher use of empirically‐based proactive behavior management (PBM) can improve student outcomes; however, research also indicates that teacher use of PBM is low. One prominent factor in teacher use of PBM is “buy‐in,” or personal interest, agreement, and investment in the implementation of a practice. When teachers buy in to an intervention, they may be more likely to implement and maintain the intervention with fidelity. Yet, there is little empirically‐based understanding of buy‐in or strategies known to increase the buy‐in of school staff. The purpose of this paper is to describe research from social psychology that may be useful in developing a theoretical framework for buy‐in, as well as approaches to increasing teacher buy‐in and use of PBM. Implications for incorporating strategies from social psychology into teacher professional development to increase buy‐in and use of PBM are discussed.
Parameter‐expandeddata augmentation for analyzing correlated binary data using multivariate probit models
Authors: Zhang Xiao
Published: July 2020

Data augmentation has been commonly utilized to analyze correlated binary data using multivariate probit models in Bayesian analysis. However, the identification issue in the multivariate probit models necessitates a rigorous Metropolis‐Hastings algorithm for sampling a correlation matrix, which may cause slow convergence and inefficiency of Markov chains. It is well‐known that the parameter‐expanded data augmentation, by introducing a working/artificial parameter or parameter vector, makes an identifiable model be non‐identifiable and improves the mixing and convergence of data augmentation components. Therefore, we motivate to develop efficient parameter‐expanded data augmentations to analyze correlated binary data using multivariate probit models. We investigate both the identifiable and non‐identifiable multivariate probit models and develop the corresponding parameter‐expanded data augmentation algorithms. We point out that the approaches, based on one non‐identifiable model, circumvent a Metropolis‐Hastings algorithm for sampling a correlation matrix and improve the convergence and mixing of correlation parameters; the identifiable model may produce the estimated regression parameters with smaller standard errors than the non‐identifiable model does. We illustrate our proposed approaches using simulation studies and through the application to a longitudinal dataset from the Six Cities study.
Boron‐Doped Ni‐Ru Supported on Nitrogen‐Doped Ordered Mesoporous Carbon as Effective Electrocatalyst for Methanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Gubert Sonia Theres , Guruviah Velayutham , Kannan Shanthi
Published: July 2020

Ternary hybrid catalyst, composed of boron‐doped Ni species/Ru species/nitrogen‐doped ordered mesoporous carbon (catalyst/co‐catalyst/scaffold), was comprehensively analyzed for effective methanol electro‐oxidation. Five catalysts with different compositions of Ni : Ru, were synthesized and characterized to analyze phase formation and purity (XRD), surface morphology (SEM), elemental deposition and composition (EDX), reduction in surface area of scaffold after metal deposition (N2 sorption), metal dispersion (TEM) and chemical functionality (XPS). Cumulative analysis of the results obtained from Cyclic Voltammetry, Electrochemical Impedance and Chromoamperometry techniques unequivocally indicated the promotional effect in the activity of the catalyst on the addition of the co‐catalyst; however, there exists a limiting factor for the extent of the addition of the co‐catalyst to the catalyst, beyond which the electrocatalytic activity declines. The highest current density, lowest onset potential along with appreciable two‐hour stability were recorded when the two metal components (Ni and Ru) were mixed in 1 : 1 wt % ratio (1Ni1Ru/N‐OMC).
Star‐Shaped Phenylene BODIPY: Synthesis, Properties and Biocompatibility Assessment Using Zebrafish
Authors: Mahanta Chandra Sekhara , Aparna Sai , Das Saroj Kumar , Jena Bibhuti Bhusan , Swain Biswa Ranjan , Patri Manorama , Dash Barada P. , Satapathy Rashmirekha
Published: July 2020

A C3‐symmetrical star‐shaped phenylene core based borondipyrromethene (BODIPY) has been synthesized and its toxicity and biocompatibility has been evaluated using a vertebrate model, zebrafish. The BODIPY has been found to absorb and emit in solution and solid state between 450 nm‐700 nm. It has been found to be non toxic in adult zebrafish model up to concentration 100 mg/L. The neurobehavioral alterations and bioimaging properties of the BODIPY in zebrafish adults and embryos have also been investigated. The dose‐response study of BODIPY 6 was carried out by light and dark preference test (LDPT) and novel tank diving test (NTDT) to observe behavioral alteration in adult zebrafish. The LDPT showed that time spent in light zone and number of transition to light zone rose up to administration of 6.8 mg/L BODIPY where as latency towards light zone remarkably decreased at concentration 6.8 mg/L. The NTDT test followed similar trend and the number of transitions and time spent in top zone increased in accordance to BODIPY treatment concentration where as latency towards top zone decreased gradually. The phenylene BODIPY was accumulated into and bound to different parts of zebrafish larvae. Our results indicate that the star shaped phenylene cored compound containing multiple BODIPY moieties exhibits no toxicity and also shows good biocompatibility and biodistribution in zebrafish and thus it may find promising biological applications.
Transparent and Self‐Cleaning Surfaces Based on Nanocomposite Sol‐Gel Coatings
Authors: Boutamart Mustapha , Briche Samir , Nouneh Khalid , Rafqah Salah , Agzenai Yahya
Published: July 2020

In this study, transparent anti‐fogging and self‐cleaning nanocomposite coatings based on sponge‐like TiO2−SiO2 nanoparticles on glass substrate were prepared through the sol‐gel process, by using spin‐coating and spray gun techniques to coat small and large glass surfaces. The effect of annealing temperature on the morphology, wettability, UV–Vis transmittance, refractive index, thickness, photocatalytic degradation rate and the anti‐fouling effect was studied in detail. Indeed, the self‐cleaning properties of the nanocomposite coatings were evaluated as efficient by both photocatalytic degradation of orange G (OG) dye under natural sunlight irradiation and water contact angle (WCA) method under atmospheric out‐door conditions. It should be noted that the optical transmission of nanocomposite coatings remains important (85–87 %) compared to the ordinary glass (92 %) with lower haze value, which confirms their clear optical appearance. The nanocomposite coatings rendered the glass substrate hydrophilic with a WCA value that not exceeding 12° after fifteen weeks of out‐door exposure. Photocatalytic degradation rate relative to OG up to 7.9 % were achieved for the nanocomposite coating annealed at 500 °C after 8 hours of sunlight exposition. The soil attachment test reveal that nanocomposite coatings prevent the accumulation of soil particles and has an excellent anti‐fouling and anti‐fogging properties. These findings indicated that the TiO2‐SiO2 nanocomposite coatings could be a very attractive solution for many practical areas (environment, energy and building sectors) especially for outdoor applications.
Thermal Responsive Photonic Crystal Achieved through the Control of Light Path Guided by Phase Transition
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Zhang Shufen , Meng Yao , Tang Bingtao
Published: July 2020

Responsive photonic crystal is widely considered in the field of anti‐counterfeiting and information encryption because of their structural color changes caused by external stimulation. However, the response signal is usually achieved by adjusting the periodic lattice constant based on Bragg's law with volume changes. Thus, it is a great challenge to achieve the response of photonic crystals by non‐array parameter control. Herein, novel thermal responsive photonic crystal (TRPC) with low angle dependent structural color is fabricated by introducing poly(ethylene glycol) into the structure of low angle dependent SnO2 inverse opal. The response is achieved through the control of light path guided by phase transition and the significant volume change caused by the change of traditional array parameters can be effectively avoided. Meanwhile, the low angle dependent structural color of TRPC can effectively reduce the interference of observation angle change to response signal caused by external thermal stimulation. Patterned responsive photonic crystals with temperature gradient response are easily obtained by combining confinement self‐assembly and direct template method, and the patterns can be presented and hidden by the control of light path, showing great potential in anti‐counterfeiting and information encryption fields.