bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acculturation and selected birth defects among non‐Hispanic Blacks in a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Hoyt Adrienne T. , Ramadhani Tunu , Le Mimi T. , Shumate Charlie J. , Canfield Mark A. , Scheuerle Angela E. ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: March 2020

Background

There are noted birth defects prevalence differences between race/ethnicity groups. For instance, non‐Hispanic (NH) Black mothers are more likely to have an infant with encephalocele, although less likely to have an infant with anotia/microtia compared to NH Whites. When stratifying by nativity and years lived within the United States, additional variations become apparent.

Methods

Data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study were used to calculate descriptive statistics and estimate crude/adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) among NH Blacks with one of 30 major defects and non‐malformed controls. Total case/controls were as follows: U.S.‐ (2,773/1101); Foreign‐ (343/151); African‐born (161/64). Study participants were also examined by number of years lived in the U.S. (≤5 vs. 6+ years).

Results

Compared to U.S.‐born, foreign‐born NH Black controls tended to be older, had more years of education, and were more likely to have a higher household income. They also had fewer previous livebirths and were less likely to be obese. In the adjusted analyses, two defect groups were significantly attenuated: limb deficiencies, aORs/95%CIs = (0.44 [0.20–0.97]) and septal defects (0.69 [0.48–0.99]). After stratifying by years lived in the United States, the risk for hydrocephaly (2.43 [1.03–5.74]) became apparent among those having lived 6+ years in the United States. When restricting to African‐born mothers, none of the findings were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Foreign‐born NH Blacks were at a reduced risk for a few selected defects. Results were consistent after restricting to African‐born mothers and did not change considerably when stratifying by years lived in the United States.
Young people’s perceptions of the ‘Love Hurts’ programme: Is theatre an effective means of addressing teenage relationship abuse?
Authors: McElwee Jessica D. , Fox Claire L.
Published: March 2020

Domestic abuse prevention education programmes have been found to be effective in bringing about attitudinal and behavioural change. However, there is limited research on theatre‐based interventions developed in the UK. This study aimed to assess pupils’ responses to a theatre production called ‘Love Hurts’. A mixed‐methods approach, which incorporated an online survey and focus groups, was used to understand the pupils’ perceptions of the play. The survey was completed by 294 pupils aged 11–19 years in five schools. Four focus groups were conducted in two of the schools involved. The pupils were generally very positive about the play, girls more so than boys. One of the strengths was that the young people reported being able to relate to the situations, and they found the use of theatre very engaging. They seemed to respond well to the use of a positive male role in the play, but reported that more could be done to highlight that women can be abusive too. Another theme was around the issue of trust, with some young people reporting feeling cautious about entering relationships following the play. The findings suggest that the young people responded well to the messages conveyed and felt that theatre was an effective means of addressing the issue. However, care is needed as to how to address the issues of gender and trust.
Efficient Synthesis of Long‐wavelength Absorbing Cyanochlorophyll a Derivatives via Stereoselective Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons Reaction
Authors: Wu Huiqiang , Wang Xiangmin , Liu Yang , Zhao Yu , Wang Xinyue , Lee Woo Kyoung , Shim Young Key , Yoon Il , Xu Xinming , Li Jiazhu
Published: March 2020

In this article, we report the stereoselective Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction of reactive carbonyl‐substituted chlorophyll a derivatives with diethyl cyanomethylphosphonate. We found that the formyl or keto group at the chlorin periphery can react stereoselectively with phosphonate carbanions to produce a series of cyanomethylene‐substituted chlorins with predominantly E geometry. Considering that no consistent records are available in the literature on the results of the allomerization of methyl pyropheophorbide a, we propose a reliable process for the transformation of this chlorophyll derivative. Our methodology represents a simple and efficient way for the preparation of novel, differently functionalized long‐wavelength absorbing chlorins, those can be applied for photodynamic therapy, solar cells, and other relevant purposes.
Multiple health behaviors before and after a cancer diagnosis among women: A repeated cross‐sectional analysis over 15 years
Authors: Tollosa Daniel N. , Holliday Elizabeth , Hure Alexis , Tavener Meredith , James Erica L.
Published: March 2020

Background

Cancer diagnosis may be a cue for health behavior change. Previous research that assessed the impact of a cancer diagnosis on multiple health behavior (MHB) change is limited by small sample size, cross‐sectional study design, and a focus on individual rather than multiple behaviors. This study investigated the impact of a cancer diagnosis on compliance with MHB recommendations.

Methods

Data from Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were utilized. Compliance with MHB was assessed by cancer survivorship period; 0‐3 years pre‐diagnosis, 0‐3 years postdiagnosis, 4‐12 years postdiagnosis, and compared to controls. A MHB score based on the WCRF/AICR guidelines was calculated for six behaviors (physical activity, smoking, alcohol, BMI, fruit, and vegetable intake); scores ranged from 0 to 6, with a higher score indicating higher compliance. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Participants comprised 7585 women from the 2001 ALSWH survey, of whom 2285 developed cancer during 15 years of follow‐up. Compared to controls, the mean MHB score was slightly lower (Mean Difference (MD) = −0.015, P > .05) in survivors pre‐diagnosis, after adjusting for confounders; however, the compliance score increased during postdiagnosis, with the mean difference score being significantly higher in recent survivors (0‐3 years post diagnosis; MD = 0.055, P < .01). Likewise, within cancer survivors, the mean compliance score significantly increased 0‐3 years postdiagnosis (MD = 0.07, P < .05) compared to pre‐diagnosis, but this significant improvement was not maintained over the longer term (MD = 0.037, P > .05).

Conclusion

In this sample, survivors had higher MHB score than controls. A cancer diagnosis may provide a teachable moment for health behavior change in the period immediately following diagnosis, but this effect was not sustained during longer‐term survivorship.
Keep Your Eye On…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2020

The value of office‐based opioid treatment

Benefits of hormonal suppression in transgender adolescents

The influence of parents in preventing binge drinking
Photoelectro‐Enzymatic Glucose Reusable Biosensor by Using Dithienylethene Mediators
Authors: Márquez Augusto , Santiago Sara , Domínguez Carlos , Muñoz‐Berbel Xavier , Guirado Gonzalo
Published: March 2020

In the development of colorimetric biosensors, the use of electrochromic mediators has been accepted and widely used during decades. The main drawback of these types of enzymatic substrates is the difficult recovery of the initial redox state of the molecule, which can be done electrochemically or by antioxidants addition, complicating the initially simple structure of the biosensor. those strategies are rarely followed Actually, being the disposable biosensor configuration the most extended for this detection mechanisms. Alternatively, we propose the first reported use of a diacid dithienylethene 1,2‐bis(5‐carboxy‐2‐methylthien‐3‐yl)cyclopentene (DTE) photoelectrochromic compound as a substrate of the horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The photoisomerization between the open (DTEo) and closed (DTEc) forms of the molecule and the respective shift in the redox potential allowed the light‐induced enzymatic detection of glucose in the glucose oxidase [(GOx)]–HRP cascade system. This fast and easy control over the enzymatic substrate availability by light pulses permits a gradually consumption and the light‐regeneration of the biosensor for a number of cycles. We consider the presented results transcendent in the development of reusable and light‐controlled photonic biosensing systems.
Axial chirality in biaryl N,N‐dialkylaminopyridine derivatives bearing an internal carboxy group
Authors: Nishino Reiko , Hamada Shohei , Elboray Elghareeb E. , Ueda Yoshihiro , Kawabata Takeo , Furuta Takumi
Published: March 2020

Axial chirality in N,N‐dimethylaminopyridines as well as N,N‐dipropylaminopyridines bearing an internal carboxy group were evaluated based on their racemization barriers and circular dichroism spectra. The half‐life of racemization of N,N‐dipropylaminopyridine derivative 2 was estimated to be 19.7 days at 20°C. Its enantiomers isolated as optically active forms showed positive‐negative and negative‐positive Cotton effects for (+)‐2 and (−)‐2, respectively, from 310 to 210 nm. Furthermore, (−)‐2 was applied as a chiral nucleophilic catalyst and exhibited asymmetric induction in acylative kinetic resolution of 1‐(1‐naphthyl)ethane‐1‐ol.
Just‐in‐time learning for the prediction of oil sands ore characteristics using GPS data in mining applications
Authors: Magbool Jan Nabil , Huang Biao , Espejo Aris , Zelmer Luke , Xu Fangwei , Gulbransen Lee
Published: March 2020

For the mining based oilsands industry, it is desirable to determine the quality of the ore delivered to the extraction processes in real‐time to make optimal operational decisions such as optimal ore blending to achieve maximal bitumen recovery. Currently, the industry determines the real‐time ore characteristics for any given shovel Global Positioning System (GPS) location by first determining the shovel elevation from the topological mine map and then using the determined geological coordinates in the 3D geological block model. It should be noted that the block model is built based on the widely spaced core hole samples, and it is updated only on a yearly basis due to high cost of narrower core hole sampling. Thus, the block model predictions are often inaccurate in between the core hole spacing. On the other hand, mining operations data are available that contain accurate ore characteristics information in the already mined area. Therefore, in this work, we present a just‐in‐time based data‐driven modelling strategy that utilizes the recently available mining operations data to obtain reliable ore characteristics given the GPS data. The prediction capability of ore characteristics using the proposed modelling strategy is validated at core hole locations. Further, the prediction of ore characteristics at non‐core hole points demonstrate promising results.
A novel zero watermark optimization algorithm based on Gabor transform and discrete cosine transform
Authors: Fan Di , Li Yongyi , Gao Shang , Chi Wanda , Lv Changzhi
Published: March 2020

Zero watermark has no intervention on the carrier image, which is invisible in nature, and completely solves the problem of mutual constraint between robustness and invisibility in the traditional digital watermark technology. In order to improve the robustness of the zero watermark, a zero watermark algorithm based on Gabor transform and discrete cosine transform (DCT) is proposed in this paper. The algorithm performs Gabor transformation on the carrier image to obtain the directional characteristics of the image. Then it performs DCT and blocks, and performs singular value decomposition (SVD) on each subblock. The feature matrix is constructed using the largest eigenvalue of the subblock, and then XORed with the encrypted watermark to form a zero watermark. The algorithm utilizes the advantages of Gabor transform in the adjustment of scale and direction and selects the optimized parameters to extract image features. At the same time, the information concentration and decorrelation of DCT and SVD are utilized to improve the robustness and antiattack capability of the algorithm. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is robust to filtering, JPEG compression, noise, shearing, rotation, and other attacks, especially effective in antishear attack and rotation attack.
Why are some cases not on track? An item analysis of the Assessment for Signal Cases during inpatient psychotherapy
Authors: Probst Thomas , Kleinstäuber Maria , Lambert Michael J. , Tritt Karin , Pieh Christoph , Loew Thomas H. , Dahlbender Reiner W. , Delgadillo Jaime
Published: March 2020

Within the Routine Outcome Monitoring system “OQ‐Analyst,” the questionnaire “Assessment for Signal Cases” (ASC) supports therapists in detecting potential reasons for not‐on‐track trajectories. Factor analysis and a machine learning algorithm (LASSO with 10‐fold cross‐validation) were applied, and potential predictors of not‐on‐track classifications were tested using logistic multilevel modeling methods. The factor analysis revealed a shortened (30 items) version of the ASC with good internal consistency (α= 0.72–0.89) and excellent predictive value (area under the curve = 0.98; positive predictive value = 0.95; negative predictive value = 0.94). Item‐level analyses showed that interpersonal problems captured by specific ASC items (not feeling able to speak about problems with family members; feeling rejected or betrayed) are the most important predictors of not‐on‐track trajectories. It should be considered that our results are based on analyses of ASC items only. Our findings need to be replicated in future studies including other potential predictors of not‐on‐track trajectories (e.g., changes in medication, specific therapeutic techniques, or treatment adherence), which were not measured this study.
When's a story a story? Determining interpretability of Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale‐Global ratings on Thematic Apperception Test narratives
Authors: Stein Michelle B , Calderon Solara , Ruchensky Jared , Massey Christina , Slavin‐Mulford Jenelle , Chung Wei‐Jean , Richardson Laura A. , Blais Mark A.
Published: March 2020

The Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale‐Global Rating Method (SCORS‐G) measures the quality of object relations in narrative material. The reliability and validity of this measure have been well established. However, a psychometric oddity of this scale is that default ratings are given to select dimensions when the relevant construct is not present. This can result in narrative ‘blandness’ and may impact clinical findings. The aim of these two studies is to understand these phenomena both psychometrically and clinically. In the first study, we identified 276 outpatients who had SCORS‐G ratings for TAT Cards 1, 2, 3BM, and 14, set criteria for narrative ‘blandness’ across all eight dimensions, and examined group differences. In Study 2, we used a subset (N = 99) of Study 1 and examined how percentage of formal default ratings for Emotional Investment in Values and Moral Standards (EIM), Experience and Management of Aggressive Impulses (AGG), Self‐Esteem(SE), and Identify and Coherence of Self (ICS) impacted robustness of correlations across tests of intelligence, psychopathology, and normal personality functioning. Taken together, we identified clinical characteristics of patients who are more likely to produce ‘bland’ narratives and increased percentages of formal default ratings. Also, an excess of default ratings per protocol impacts robustness of correlations and weakens significant correlations. As cut‐off scores increase (>25% and >28.12%), the likelihood of being able to interpret EIM, AGG, SE, and ICS decreases. Psychometric and clinical implications are discussed.
Mg−O‐Bridged Polypyrrole/g‐C3N4 Nanocomposites as Efficient Visible‐Light Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Guo Xin , Hu Kang , Chu Mingna , Li Yong , Bian Ji , Qu Yang , Chu Xiaoyu , Yang Fan , Zhao Qi , Qin Chuanli , Jing Liqiang
Published: March 2020

It is highly desired to improve the visible‐light activity of g‐C3N4 for H2 evolution by constructing closely contacted heterojunctions with conductive polymers. Herein, a polymer nanocomposite photocatalyst with high visible‐light activity is fabricated successfully by coupling nanosized polypyrrole (NPPy) particles onto g‐C3N4 nanosheets through a simple wet‐chemical process, and its visible‐light activity is improved further by constructing Mg−O bridges between the NPPy and g‐C3N4. The amount‐optimized bridged nanocomposite displays an approximately ninefold improvement in visible‐light activity compared with g‐C3N4. On the basis of transient‐state surface photovoltage responses, photoluminescence spectra, .OH amount evaluation, and photoelectrochemical curves, it is concluded that the exceptional photoactivity can be attributed to the significantly promoted charge transfer and separation along with visible photosensitization from NPPy. Interestingly, it is confirmed that the promoted charge separation depends mainly on the excited high‐level electron transfer from g‐C3N4 to NPPy by single‐wavelength photocurrent action spectra. This work provides a feasible strategy for designing polymer nano‐heterojunction photocatalysts with exceptional visible‐light activities.
Molecular dynamics simulation model of hydrogen recycling on carbon divertor for neutral transport analysis in large helical device
Authors: Saito Seiki , Nakamura Hiroaki , Sawada Keiji , Kawamura Gakushi , Kobayashi Masahiro , Hasuo Masahiro
Published: March 2020

To perform the neutral‐transport simulation with processes in which hydrogen molecules contribute to the reaction such as molecular assisted recombination, the parameters of emitted neutral particles at the wall such as the energy distributions and the form (atom or molecule) of emitted neutral particles are necessary as a boundary condition of the calculation. Therefore, in order to provide information of recycled hydrogen on the divertor to neutral‐transport code, molecular dynamics simulation of a hydrogen atom injection into a carbon material is performed to obtain the distributions of emission angle and translational energy of emitted hydrogen atoms and molecules. The distributions of rotational and vibrational energies are also investigated in the case of molecular hydrogen emission. Moreover, the quantum rotational state J, and vibrational state v are estimated from the classical value obtained by the simulation.
Malignant perivascular epithelioid tumor of the vagina: Report of a rare case with brief review of literature
Authors: Gupta Ruchika , Hariprasad Roopa , Dhanasekaran Kavitha , Gupta Sanjay
Published: March 2020

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal tumors with immunohistochemical co‐expression of melanocytic and myoid markers. Vaginal PEComas have been described in only nine cases so far. We describe the case of a 65‐year‐old female with a large growth in the left lateral vaginal wall. Biopsy imprint smears showed dispersed tumor cells with anisonucleosis, multinucleation, and bizarre forms, suggestive of a malignant tumor. Histopathology, however, showed perivascular arrangement of clear epithelioid cells, focal necrosis, intracellular brown pigment in few cells, and mitotic activity at 2 to 3 per 50 high power fields. Immunohistochemical positivity for vimentin, HMB‐45, S‐100 protein, desmin, and MyoD1 assisted in rendering a final pathological diagnosis of malignant PEComa of the vagina. Further work‐up revealed metastatic deposits in liver and retroperitoneal lymph nodes. PEComa arising in vagina is an unusual phenomenon with the malignant variant being an extremely rare tumor. Awareness of the characteristic morphology and utilization of a panel of immunohistochemical stains are mandatory to be able to make a precise diagnosis and appropriate prognostication.
A comparative study of the turnover of multiciliated cells in the mouse trachea, oviduct, and brain
Authors: Roberson Elle C. , Tran Ngan K. , Konjikusic Mia J. , Fitch Rebecca D. , Gray Ryan S. , Wallingford John B.
Published: March 2020

Background

In mammals, multiciliated cells (MCCs) line the lumen of the trachea, oviduct, and brain ventricles, where they drive fluid flow across the epithelium. Each MCC population experiences vastly different local environments that may dictate differences in their lifetime and turnover rates. However, with the exception of MCCs in the trachea, the turnover rates of these multiciliated epithelial populations at extended time scales are not well described.

Results

Here, using genetic lineage‐labeling techniques we provide a direct comparison of turnover rates of MCCs in these three different tissues.

Conclusion

We find that oviduct turnover is similar to that in the airway (~6 months), while multiciliated ependymal cells turnover more slowly.
Lower soil carbon stocks in exotic vs. native grasslands are driven by carbonate losses
Authors: Wilsey Brian , Xu Xia , Polley H. Wayne , Hofmockel Kirsten , Hall Steven J.
Published: March 2020

Global change includes invasion by exotic (nonnative) plant species and altered precipitation patterns, and these factors may affect terrestrial carbon (C) storage. We measured soil C changes in experimental mixtures of all exotic or all native grassland plant species under two levels of summer drought stress (0 and +128 mm). After 8 yr, soils were sampled in 10‐cm increments to 100‐cm depth to determine if soil C differed among treatments in deeper soils. Total soil C (organic + inorganic) content was significantly higher under native than exotic plantings, and differences increased with depth. Surprisingly, differences after 8 yr in C were due to carbonate and not organic C fractions, where carbonate was ~250 g C/m2lower to 1‐m soil depth under exotic than native plantings. Our results indicate that soil carbonate is an active pool and can respond to differences in plant species traits over timescales of years. Significant losses of inorganic C might be avoided by conserving native grasslands in subhumid ecosystems.
IRF3 and IRF7 contribute to diesel exhaust particles‐induced pulmonary inflammation by mediating mTORC1 activation and restraining autophagy in mice
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Chaoming , Wu Xiangyu , Tian Hongbo , Jiang Shanqun , Xu Tao , Liu Zhiping , Sun Jin‐Lu , Qi Xiaopeng
Published: March 2020

Exposure to diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) is associated with acute inflammatory responses in the lung and exacerbation of respiratory diseases. However, the mechanism by which DEPs trigger the inflammatory responses remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that the IFN response factors IRF3 and IRF7 played pivotal roles in DEP‐induced pulmonary inflammation. DEPs could not directly induce inflammatory cytokine expression in mouse cells, whereas DEPs triggered autophagy both in vitro and in vivo. The DEP‐induced autophagy was augmented in the absence of IRF3 and IRF7, but not in the absence of IFNAR. The expression of Raptor was induced by IRF3 and IRF7 in response to DEPs treatment. Furthermore, administration of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor alleviated the inflammatory responses in the lung during DEP exposure. Our findings define an IFNAR‐independent role of increased autophagy in the absence of IRF3 and IRF7 during pulmonary DEP exposure, and provide the basis to develop new therapeutic approaches to counteract the adverse effects of DEPs and possibly other ambient particulate matters.
Direct C‐2 Carboxylation of 3‐Substituted Indoles Using a Combined Brønsted Base Consisting of LiO‐tBu/CsF/18‐crown‐6
Authors: Shigeno Masanori , Tohara Itsuki , Nozawa‐Kumada Kanako , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: March 2020

Herein, we report that a combination of LiO‐tBu, CsF, and 18‐crown‐6 can be used to carry out the carboxylation of indole derivatives at the C‐2 position under an ambient CO2 atmosphere. Substrates bearing an electrophilic substituent (i.e., cyano, formyl, benzoyl, phenylsulfonyl, phenylsulfinyl, and chloride) at the C‐3 position are smoothly converted into their corresponding carboxylated products with high functional group compatibility.
State‐of‐charge prediction of lithium ion battery through multivariate adaptive recursive spline and principal component analysis
Authors: Vyas Mayank , Pareek Kapil , Spare Shitanshu , Garg Akhil , Gao Liang
Published: March 2020

The main aim of this research work is to provide a comprehensible state of art for the intensification of the utmost decisive task performed by a modern BMS system to monitor and estimate battery states through a well‐entrenched statistical analysis method. In the present work, “multivariate adaptive regression splines” (MARS) method along with principal component analysis (PCA) has been used to develop a predictive model‐based state of charge (SoC) estimator for an NCR 18650PF Lithium ion battery at constant charging c‐rate of 0.3 C and 0.3 C and 0.5 C constant discharge profiles. Time‐weighing factors, that is, voltage‐current and temperature are employed as training datasets, to provide greater impact for developing a SoC MARS model of with high coefficient of correlation R2 (0.9984). The SoC MARS model adequacy is then validated for voltage prediction of the same battery for two different profiles of discharging using NIPALS algorithm for principal component analysis (PCA) with SS2 of 93.69% and 94.23% for profile A and profile B, respectively.
A Learning Progression for Variability
Authors: Fife James H. , James Kofi , Peters Stephanie
Published: March 2020

The concept of variability is central to statistics. In this research report, we review mathematics education research on variability and, based on that review and on feedback from an expert panel, propose a learning progression (LP) for variability. The structure of the proposed LP consists of 5 levels of sophistication in understanding variability, ranging from the learning that occurs prior to Grade 6 through an expert understanding of variability. Following our analysis of the variability research, the full LP is presented along with example tasks designed to elicit evidence of understanding at each of the proposed levels. The LP described in this report constitutes a new theoretical structure that must be independently validated vis‐à‐vis empirical recovery of the proposed levels by analyzing student responses to tasks designed to target different levels of the progression.
Artificial intelligence in process control applications and energy saving: a review and outlook
Authors: Kramer Alexander , Morgado‐Dias Fernando
Published: March 2020

This work summarizes selected applications of artificial neural networks and related solutions such as neuro‐fuzzy within different control loops such as the network predictive control regarding energy saving. It also shows such applications in the chemical industry and points out why further research on these applications regarding the control of distillation columns might be economically promising, as the world market in the chemical industry is expected to grow from 3.47 trillion euro in 2017 to about 6.6 trillion euro in 2030, the energy consumption might also rise. As not only companies in the chemical industry set up energy saving programs to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases, the consumption of energy decreased since 1990 in Europe. Compared to other countries like China, the energy prices in Europe – especially in Germany – have the highest prices due to taxes and governmental issues. Thus, research about applications with artificial intelligence in energy saving holds the promise of economic gain. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quo Vadis, Macromolecular Science? Reflections by the IUPAC Polymer Division on the Occasion of the Staudinger Centenary
Authors: Abetz Volker , Chan Chin Han , Luscombe Christine K. , Matson John B. , Merna Jan , Nakano Tamaki , Raos Guido , Russell Gregory T.
Published: March 2020

We survey the past, present and future of polymers and macromolecular science, both in general and giving specific examples from our diverse array of research backgrounds within polymer science and technology. As befitting our common bond, we pay some attention to the role of IUPAC. In line with this being part of a Rosarium philosophorum, one might say we conclude that it is Citius, Altius, Fortius for polymers in the century ahead, by which we mean “faster engagement, higher value, stronger properties”, and one should also add “longer usage”. In this way our broad community will continue to build on the century that has passed since Hermann Staudinger launched macromolecular science.
Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy among patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Jin Lin , Zhang Yu , Yang Wenqing
Published: March 2020

Objective

To evaluate the course of chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) among patients with ovarian cancer receiving taxanes.

Methods

In a retrospective case–control study conducted between January 1, 2016, and May 31, 2018, in Xiangya Hospital in Changsha, China, women with ovarian cancer received taxane and platinum‐complex combination therapy. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life, Ovarian cancer module questionnaire, was used to assess the severity of neuropathy by telephone.

Results

Out of the 88 women included in the study, 61 (69.3%) reported CIPN. Twelve months after chemotherapy, the percentage was 19.3%. The percentage of patients suffering from sensory peripheral neuropathy (SPN) was higher than motor peripheral neuropathy at any time during the study. Sensory peripheral neuropathy was associated with the use of docetaxel and paclitaxel (docetaxel vs liposomal paclitaxel: odds ratio [OR] 4.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.69–11.42, P<0.01; paclitaxel vs liposomal paclitaxel: OR 5.91, 95% CI 1.09–31.97, P=0.04). The average weakness score in acute CIPN was lower than chronic CIPN (1.46 vs 2.00, P=0.019). Patients treated with vitamin B1 and amifostine experienced better relief from CIPN.

Conclusion

The present study showed a significant proportion of patients with ovarian cancer receiving taxanes suffered from long‐term residual neuropathy, and the use of docetaxel and paclitaxel was associated with SPN. Vitamin B1 or amifostine may improve the symptoms of CIPN.
HbA1c in patients with intracranial meningiomas WHO grades I and II: A preliminary study
Authors: Orešković Darko , Almahariq Fadi , Majić Ana , Sesar Patricija , Živković Marcela , Maraković Jurica , Marčinković Petar , Predrijevac Nina , Vuković Petra , Chudy Darko
Published: March 2020

Meningiomas are among the most common primary brain tumors. There is a growing need for novel ways of differentiating between benign (World Health Organization [WHO] grade I) and atypical (WHO grade II) meningiomas as well as for novel markers of the tumor's future behavior. A difference between glucose metabolism in atypical and benign meningiomas is well known. However, a significant correlation between the systemic metabolic status of the patient and the meningioma WHO grade has not yet been established. Our aim was to compare the WHO grades of intracranial meningiomas with the patient's HbA1c levels as a more reliable marker of the chronic systemic metabolic status than the fasting blood glucose value, which is usually looked at. We retrospectively analyzed 15 patients and compared their meningioma WHO grade with their preoperative HbA1c values. Our results show that patients with benign intracranial meningiomas have significantly lower HbA1c value. Conversely, patients with atypical intracranial meningiomas have higher HbA1c values. Furthermore, we showed that the proliferation factor Ki67 was statistically strongly correlated with the HbA1c value (p < .001. These results imply a possible positive correlation between meningioma cell proliferation and the chronic systemic glycemia. Further research in this area could not only lead to better understanding of meningiomas but could have significant clinical application.
Ascites as a Cause of Hyperechogenic Kidneys
Authors: Fontaine Suzanne , Lafortune Michel , Breton Guy , Vallée Claude
Published: March 2020

In 40 patients with ascites, hyperechogenicity of the kidneys was directly proportional to the amount of fluid interposed between the clinically normal kidney and the transducer. The beam‐enhancing phenomenon of ascites on renal parenchymal echogenicity should be distinguished from renal disease causing the increase in parenchymal echoes.
Modeling the upper airway: A precursor to personalized surgical interventions for the treatment of sleep apnea
Authors: Hingley Lachlan , Jeiranikhameneh Ali , Beirne Stephen , Peoples Gregory , Jones Andrew , Sayyar Sepidar , Eastwood Peter , Lewis Richard , Wallace Gordon , MacKay Stuart G.
Published: March 2020

An accurate benchtop model was developed to mimic the different forms of human upper airway collapse in adult sleep apnea patients. This was done via modeling the airway through digital imaging. Airway representative models were then produced in two steps via a customized pneumatic extrusion 3D printing system. This allowed the pressure of collapse and planes of collapse to be manipulated to accurately represent those seen in sleep apnea patients. The pressure flow relationships of the collapsible airways were then studied by inserting the collapsible airways into a module that allowed the chamber pressure (Pc) around the airways to be increased in order to cause collapse. Airways collapsed at physiologically relevant pressures (5.32–9.58 cmH2O). Nickel and iron magnetic polymers were then printed into the airway in order to investigate the altering of the airway collapse. The introduction of the nickel and iron magnetic polymers increased the pressure of collapse substantially (7.38–17.51 cmH2O). Finally, the force produced by the interaction of the magnetic polymer and the magnetic module was studied by measuring a sample of the magnetic airways. The peak force in (48.59–163.34 cN) and the distance over which the forces initially registered (6.8–9.7 mm) were measured using a force transducer. This data set may be used to inform future treatment of sleep apnea, specifically the production of an implantable polymer for surgical intervention.
Role of α‐tocopherol and Lactobacillus plantarum in the alleviation of mercuric chloride‐induced testicular atrophy in rat's model: Implication of molecular mechanisms
Authors: Fadda Laila M. , Alhusaini Ahlam M. , Al‐Qahtani Qamraa H. , Ali Hanaa M. , Hasan Iman H.
Published: March 2020

The present work was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of alpha‐tocopherol (α‐toco) and/or Lactobacillus plantarum (LCB) against testicular atrophy induced by mercuric chloride (MCH). Rats were injected with 5 mg/kg MCH for 5 days consecutively, then treated with 100 mg/kg α‐toco and 6 × 1010 CFU 1.8701/kg LCB alone or together for 3 weeks. The MCH elevated serum TNF‐α, IL‐ 6, caspase‐3, and testicular malondialdehyde. However, serum testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, testicular messenger RNA of a steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, 17‐β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, glutathione level, and superoxide dismutase activity were decreased. Protein expression of Nrf2 was downregulated whereas that of Bax and DNA fragmentation was upregulated in the testicular tissues. Treatment with α‐toco and LCB ameliorated the deviated biochemical parameters and improved tissue injury. It was concluded that the combination of LCB and α‐toco achieved promising results in the amelioration of MCH‐induced testicular atrophy. Nrf2, Bax expressions, and DNA fragmentation are involved in the testicular atrophy induced by MCH.
Computational models of (001) faceted anatase TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Vorontsov Alexander V , Valdés Héctor , G Smirniotis Panagiotis , Paz Yaron
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Understanding the structures and properties of photocatalysts requires the developing of computational quantum models. The present study is devoted to calculating structures, bands positions and location of the HOMO/LUMO orbitals in anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles comprising of exposed (001) and (100) surfaces of various sizes having different extent of hydroxylation at their edges. The (001) surface was left intact or was reconstructed by introducing an additional row of atoms every four unit cells. Two computational approaches were compared: self‐consistent charge density‐functional tight‐binding (SCC‐DFTB) and PM6.

RESULTS

The SCC‐DFTB method was found to be, for most cases, superior to the PM6 method in terms of structure, band positions and electronic orbitals. Based on the SCC‐DFTB approach it was concluded that the presence of the (1 × 4) reconstruction was essential for keeping the (001) surface flat. Otherwise the surface undergoes anisotropic shrinking and bending, which contradicts experimental data. The band gap of the de‐hydroxylated or partially hydroxylated nanoparticles was always smaller than that of nanoparticles with hydroxylated edges. No clear quantum size effects were found for these nanoparticles. Photogenerated non‐thermalized holes were found to localize around (001) facets and at their edges, while electrons tended to concentrate over the central parts of the (100) facets.

CONCLUSION

Efficient separation of charge carriers is predicted for anatase nanoparticles having (001) and (100) external surfaces. This conclusion, and moreover, the approach of using SCC‐DFTB calculations to study faceting effects, is likely to be relevant to the developing of new, highly active, photocatalysts as well as for fundamental studies of adsorption. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Optimization of extraction for Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. using silica gel‐based vortex‐homogenized matrix solid‐phase dispersion and rapid identification of antioxidant substances
Authors: Ma Tiancheng , Sun Jia , Li Xiangkun , Ma Yukun , Liu Lei , Guo Lina , Liu Qi , Sun Yu
Published: March 2020

A novel and simple method was established for the extraction and determination of seven compounds in Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. using silica gel‐based vortex‐homogenized matrix solid‐phase dispersion and ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography quadrupole‐time of‐flight mass spectrometer. The conditions for the extraction were optimized. Silica gel was used as the dispersant, 50% methanol–water was selected as an elution solvent and the grinding time was 3 min. Compared with the traditional ultrasonic‐assisted extraction, the developed method was rapid and efficient. In order to screen potential antioxidants, extract dealing with the optimized method was applied to a polyamide chromatography column and a D‐101 macroporous resin column. Fr.2.2 showed the highest antioxidant activities with the most content of flavonoid. A total of 25 peaks were identified from the active fraction. A 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry approach was adopted for the rapid and exact screening and identification of antioxidant compounds. It indicated that flavonoids exhibited potential antioxidant activities. The antioxidant activities of nine monomeric compounds in vivo were tested. Structure–activity relationships were discussed. Five flavonoids with the concentration of 500 µg/mL would reduce the oxidative stress of PC12 cells that were induced with 2,2′‐azobis[2‐methylpropionamidine] dihydrochloride.
A clinical and experimental study of adult hereditary spherocytosis in the Chinese population
Authors: Xue Jun , He Qing , Xie Xiao‐Jing , Su Ai‐Ling , Cao Shi‐Bin
Published: March 2020

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is often misdiagnosed due to lack of specific diagnostic methods. Our study summarized clinical characteristics and described the diagnostic workflow for mild and moderate HS in Chinese individuals, using data from 20 adults, 8 of whom presented a familial history for HS. We used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to diagnose HS. We observed reduced eosin maleimide fluorescence activity (5.50 mean channel fluorescence (MCF) units) in the 10 cases of HS, which differed significantly when compared with 10 normal adults (15.50 units), iron deficiency anemia (15.50 MCF units), and megaloblastic anemia (12.00 MCF units) values (P < .05). Next generation sequencing results revealed that 9 out of 10 patients were found to have mutations in the spectrin alpha chain (SPTB), anchor protein (ANK1), and SLC4A1 genes. These mutations were not reported in the Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD), 1000 human genome, ExAC, and dbSNP147 databases. Splenectomy proved to be beneficial in alleviating HS symptoms in 10 cases. It was found that for the diagnosis of HS, SEM and next generation gene sequencing method proved to be more ideal than red blood cell membrane protein analysis using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting.
Synthesis of Polymer Single‐Chain Nanoparticle with High Compactness in Cosolvent Condition: A Computer Simulation Study
Authors: Zhang Yue‐Yuan , Jia Xiang‐Meng , Shi Rui , Li Shu‐Jia , Zhao Huanyu , Qian Hu‐Jun , Lu Zhong‐Yuan
Published: March 2020

Polymeric single‐chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) are soft nano‐objects synthesized by intramolecular crosslinking of isolated single polymer chains. Syntheses of such SCNPs usually need to be performed in a dilute solution. In such a condition, the bonding probability of the two active crosslinking units at a short contour distance along the chain backbone is much higher than those which are far away from each other. Such a reaction condition often results in local spheroidization and, therefore, the formation of loosely packed structures. How to inhibit the local spheroidization and improve the compactness of SCNPs is thus a major challenge for the syntheses of SCNPs. In this study, computer simulations are performed and the fact that a precollapse of the polymer chain conformation in a cosolvent condition can largely improve the probability of the crosslinking reactions at large contour distances is demonstrated, favoring the formations of closely packed globular structures. As a result, the formed SCNPs can be more spherical and have higher compactness than those fabricated in ultradilute good solvent solution in a conventional way. It is believed this simulation work can provide a insight into the effective syntheses of SCNPs with spherical conformations and high compactness.
Loss of myoepithelial calponin‐1 characterizes high‐risk ductal carcinoma in situ cases, which are further stratified by T cell composition
Authors: Mitchell Elizabeth , Jindal Sonali , Chan Tiffany , Narasimhan Jayasri , Sivagnanam Shamilene , Gray Elliot , Chang Young Hwan , Weinmann Sheila , Schedin Pepper
Published: March 2020

A hallmark of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) progression is a loss of the surrounding ductal myoepithelium. However, whether compromise in myoepithelial differentiation, rather than overt cellular loss, can be used to predict the risk of DCIS progression is unknown. Here we address this question utilizing pure and mixed DCIS cases (N = 30) as surrogates for DCIS at low and high risk for progression, respectively. We used multiplex immunohistochemical staining to evaluate the relationship between myoepithelial cell differentiation and lymphoid immune cell types associated with poor prognostic DCIS. Our results show that myoepithelial calponin‐1 discriminates between pure and mixed DCIS lesions better than histological subtype, presence of necrosis, or nuclear grade. Additionally, focal loss of myoepithelial cells associated with increased PD‐1+CD8+ T cells, which suggests a link between the myoepithelium and immune surveillance. To identify associations between calponin‐1 expression and immune response, we performed unsupervised hierarchical clustering of myoepithelial and immune cell biomarkers on 219 DCIS lesions from 30 cases. Notably, the majority of pure (low‐risk) DCIS lesions clustered in a high calponin‐1, T cell low group, whereas the majority of mixed (high‐risk) DCIS lesions clustered in a low calponin‐1, T cell high group, specifically with CD8+ and PD‐1+CD8+ T cells. However, a subset of pure DCIS lesions had a similar calponin‐1 and immune signature as the majority of mixed DCIS lesions, which have low calponin‐1 and T cell enrichment—raising the possibility that these pure DCIS lesions might be at a high risk for progression.
Smoke and Water Don't Mix
Authors: Macler Bruce , Heaney Yvonne , Watada Marianne , Cajina Stefan , Newton Daniel
Published: March 2020

Wildfires in California have become more frequent and intense. Along with addressing the typical consequences of these natural disasters, two drinking water utilities discovered how to handle high levels of volatile organic compounds in their distribution systems as well as the physical and public relations effects of contamination.
Paducah Water Proves “Smart Water” Works
Authors: Fillinger John
Published: March 2020

When Paducah Water realized it needed to upgrade its water system and found full system deployment to be impractical, the utility achieved success by employing an advanced metering infrastructure solution that provided the flexibility for the utility to deploy at its own pace.
Detection screening and seasonality evaluation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome in the polish national registry for fetal cardiac anomalies from the years 2004 to 2016
Authors: Sokołowski Łukasz , Fendler Wojciech , Tobota Zdzisław , Kordjalik Paulina , Krekora Michał , Słodki Maciej , Respondek‐Liberska Maria
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the incidence of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and the efficiency of the screening program using data from the Polish National Registry for Fetal Cardiac Anomalies.

To investigate whether HLHS incident rates in Poland are seasonally variable.

Methods

Data on 791 cases of HLHS from the Registry collected between 2004 and 2016 was analyzed.

Results

The median gestational age for the 734 cases of HLHS detected was 23 weeks. Comparing the age at time of HLHS detection between 2004 and 2016, a decrease from 26 to 20.8 weeks was observed. We noted a rapid increase in HLHS incidence during the initial years of the Registry data, the annual percentage change during that period was 22.0% and this trend lasted until 2010. In the following years, the Registry became representative of the general population which has an estimated incidence of HLHS of 20.93 cases per 100 000 live births. We observed no clear seasonal patterns of HLHS incidence in our population.

Conclusion

The Registry reached a plateau state in terms of diagnosing new cases of HLHS. No evidence of seasonality has been noted. The average gestational age of patients identified as having HLHS decreased significantly during the study period.