bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An eco‐friendly procedure for achieving high‐yield carrageenan from Hypnea cervicornis suitable for wet spinning
Authors: Han Jie , Han Xiao , Xue Zhixin , Wang Qianqian , Xia Yanzhi , Zhao Zhihui
Published: April 2021

In this study, an eco‐friendly method was proposed to prepare carrageenan suitable for spinning into fibers. The extract from Hypnea cervicornis without alkali pretreatment was directly converted into the spinning solution, and carrageenan fibers were obtained via wet spinning. The improved procedure had a higher yield (61.8% ± 1.1%) than the traditional method (36.0% ± 1.3%). The chemical structure of the carrageenan was analyzed via fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (13C NMR). It was confirmed that carrageenan extracted from Hypnea cervicornis was mainly ι‐carrageenan and its structure was not changed by alkali pretreatment. The properties of the spinning solution and fibers were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and tensile tests. The results showed that the spinning solution prepared by the improved procedure was homogeneous and suitable for spinning, and the mechanical strength of the novel prepared carrageenan fibers was equal to the fibers spanned from traditional carrageenan.
Effects of freezing and short‐term fixation on muscle mass, volume, and density
Authors: Leonard Kaitlyn C. , Worden Nikole , Boettcher Marissa L. , Dickinson Edwin , Hartstone‐Rose Adam
Published: April 2021

Preventing postmortem deterioration of soft‐tissues is an important requisite of anatomical research. In order to provide corrections for potential myological distortions, this study quantifies the acute effects of freezing, formalin fixation and ethanol storage using muscles from (n = 46) rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Bilateral dissections of specific muscles were performed and each side was assigned to a different preparation group (fresh, formalin fixation only, fixation followed by short duration ethanol storage, and freezing once or twice). We demonstrate that short‐term freezing at −20C and thawing have no significant effect on muscle mass, volume, and density while short‐term formalin fixation and ethanol storage significantly reduces mass and volume (density remains relatively constant.) Although freezing may have less of an effect on the gross morphometric characteristics of the musculature than ethanol storage, slow freezing damages muscle microanatomy, and therefore, faster freezing and other modes of preservation such as formalin fixation and ethanol storage may be preferable. Based on our results, we derived the following correction factors for each preparation: the mass of specimens stored in 70% ethanol should be multiplied by 1.69 to approximate fresh muscle mass, and specimens fixed in 10% formalin multiplied by 1.32. Although not significant, specimens frozen‐once were slightly less massive and could be multiplied by 1.03 (frozen‐twice ×1.09). The volumetric corrections are: ethanol 1.64; 10% formalin 1.32; frozen‐once 1.03; frozen‐twice 1.10. While the density of ethanol preserved specimens is slightly less than that of fresh ones (correction: 1.03), those preserved in formalin and frozen maintain nearly the same density.
Nonserious Infections in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results From the British Society for Rheumatology Biologics Register for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Bechman Katie , Halai Kapil , Yates Mark , Norton Sam , Cope Andrew P. ,   the British Society for Rheumatology Biologics Register for Rheumatoid Arthritis Contributors Group, Hyrich Kimme L. , Galloway James B.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To describe the frequency and predictors of nonserious infections (NSI) and compare incidence across biologic agents within the British Society for Rheumatology Biologics Register for Rheumatoid Arthritis (BSRBR‐RA).

Methods

The BSRBR‐RA is a prospective observational cohort study. An NSI was defined as an infection that did not require hospitalization or intravenous therapy. Infections were captured from clinician questionnaires and patient diaries. Individuals were considered “at risk” from the date of initiation of biologic treatment for up to 3 years. Drug exposure was defined by agent: tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) inhibitor, B cell depletion (rituximab), or conventional synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) alone. A multiple‐failure Cox model was used with multivariable adjustment. Missing data were addressed using multiple imputation.

Results

There were 17,304 NSI in 8,145 patients, with an event rate of 27.0 per person per year (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 26.6–27.4). Increasing age, female sex, comorbidity burden, glucocorticoid therapy, higher Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, and higher Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index were associated with an increased risk of NSI. There was a significant reduction in NSI risk with csDMARDs compared to biologic treatments. Compared to TNFi, IL‐6 inhibition and rituximab were associated with a higher NSI risk (adjusted hazard ratio 1.45 [95% CI 1.29–1.63] and adjusted hazard ratio 1.28 [95% CI 1.14–1.45], respectively), while the csDMARD cohort had a lower risk (adjusted hazard ratio 0.64 [95% CI 0.59–0.70]). Within the TNFi class, adalimumab was associated with a higher NSI risk than etanercept (adjusted hazard ratio 1.11 [95% CI 1.05–1.17]).

Conclusion

NSI occur frequently in RA, and predictors mirror those reported with serious infections. All biologics are associated with a greater risk of NSI, with differences observed between agents. While unmeasured confounding must be considered, the magnitude of effect is large, and a relationship between NSI and targeted immunomodulatory therapy likely exists.
Azine Steric Hindrances Switch Halogen Bonding to N‐Arylation upon Interplay with σ‐Hole Donating Haloarenenitriles
Authors: Baykov Sergey V. , Geyl Kirill K. , Ivanov Daniil M. , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Kukushkin Vadim Y.
Published: April 2021

An interplay between 4‐bromo‐ and 4‐iodo‐5‐nitrophthalonitriles (XNPN, X=Br or I) and any one of the azines (pyridine 1, 4‐dimethylaminopyridine 2, isoquinoline 3, 4‐cyanopyridine 4, 2‐methylpyridine 5, 2‐aminopyridine 6, quinoline 7, 1‐methylisoquinoline 8, and 2,2’‐bipyridine 9) proceeds differently depending on steric and electronic effects of the heterocycles. Sterically unhindered azines 1–3 underwent N‐arylation to give the corresponding azinium salts (characterized by 1H and 13C{H} NMR and high‐resolution ESI‐MS). In contrast, azines 4–9 with sterically hindered N atoms or bearing an electron‐withdrawing substituent, form stable co‐crystals with XNPN, where two interacting molecules are bound by halogen bonding. In all obtained co‐crystals, X⋅⋅⋅N structure‐directed halogen bonds were recognized and theoretically evaluated including DFT calculations (PBE0‐D3/def2‐TZVP level of theory), QTAIM analysis, molecular electrostatic potential surfaces, and noncovalent interaction plot index. Estimated energies of halogen bonding vary from −7.6 kcal/mol (for 6 ⋅ INPN) to −11.4 kcal/mol (5 ⋅ INPN).
Electrochemical Characterization of Battery Materials in 2‐Electrode Half‐Cell Configuration: A Balancing Act Between Simplicity and Pitfalls
Authors: Heubner Christian , Maletti Sebastian , Lohrberg Oliver , Lein Tobias , Liebmann Tobias , Nickol Alexander , Schneider Michael , Michaelis Alexander
Published: April 2021

The development of advanced battery materials requires fundamental research studies, particularly in terms of electrochemical performance. Most investigations on novel materials for Li‐ or Na‐ion batteries are carried out in 2‐electrode half‐cells (2‐EHC) using Li‐ or Na‐metal as the negative electrode. Although such cells are easy to assemble and generally provide sufficient stability, scientists should be aware of any effects that may influence the measurements, and care should be taken when interpreting the corresponding results. The present work addresses specific effects that can affect the electrochemical response of measurements in 2‐EHC. Critical points to be considered for long‐term cycling tests and impedance analyses are discussed and illustrated with relevant examples. The different behavior of electrochemically deposited and pristine alkali metal electrodes is shown, deriving the corresponding impact on the characterization of the actual material of interest. We demonstrate possible impacts of anode‐cathode crosstalk effects on the evaluation of measurements in 2‐EHC and highlight challenges and pitfalls in the interpretation of measurements in 2‐EHC with respect to kinetic and thermodynamic properties and battery performance. These findings contribute to the understanding of the limitations of electrochemical characterization in 2‐EHCs and should be carefully considered by researchers when evaluating novel battery materials.
The first spectrofluorimetric approach for quantification of colistin sulfate and its prodrug colistimethate sodium in pharmaceutical dosage form and human plasma
Authors: Badr El‐Din Khalid M. , Abdelmajed Mahmoud A. , Omar Mahmoud A. , Attia Tamer Z.
Published: April 2021

A new, accurate, nonextractive, and sensitive fluorimetric approach was proposed and validated for the first time estimation of colistin sulfate and its inactive prodrug colistimethate sodium in its bulk form, pharmaceutical formulations, and human plasma. The approach relied on condensation between acetylacetone/formaldehyde and the primary amino moiety of nonfluorescent colistin in Teorell and Stenhagen buffer (pH 2.8) by the Hantzsch reaction to form a highly fluorescent dihydropyridine derivative. The fluorescent product was measured at 460 nm (λex = 402 nm). A plot of relative fluorescence intensity (RFI) versus concentration was rectilinear over the range 200–4000 ng ml−1 with excellent correlation (r) and determination (r2) coefficients of 0.9999 and 0.9998, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 40.91 and 123.99 ng ml−1, respectively. The present procedure was useful for determination of colistin sulfate either in powder form for suspension or in its parenteral prodrug colistimethate sodium in vial formulation. The investigated approach was applied for in vitro quantification of this drug in spiked human plasma, with a per cent mean recovery of 98.24 ± 1.34. The proposed method is reliable, selective, and does not require tedious sample pretreatment steps, expensive instrumentation, or harmful reagents, all of which make it ideally suited for use in quality control laboratories.
Determination of the optimal distillation sequence of a ternary mixture incorporating heat integration by means of Microsoft Excel Solver
Authors: Vázquez Ana , Briones Laura , Morales Victoria , Iglesias José , Morales Gabriel , Escola José M.
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, the computer skills acquisition by Chemical Engineering (ChE) students is based on practical uses of specialized software packages in different applications. Process optimization courses use high‐level algebraic programming languages, such as GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System) or AMPL (A Mathematical Programming Language), which are usually reserved for advanced programs in ChE degrees or ChE M.Eng. Commercial software for process optimization has several benefits, such as the possibility of facing complex numerical problems in a more efficient and straightforward way. By contrast, they typically present expensive license fees, and students usually require intense training to get the proper user‐level skills. The use of simpler and economic software tools may help overcoming these limitations. In this context, Microsoft (MS) Excel Solver tool is a widespread software with the potential to be used worldwide by any ChE student, and with the power to solve complex optimization problems at the academic level. In this paper, we introduce the application of MS Excel Solver for the optimization of a distillation sequence for the separation of a ternary mixture, including the heat integration in the definition of the problem. This is an MINLP problem, which usually requires specialized software performing stochastic methods, such as Simulated Annealing, to achieve a solution. In this regard, the approach to solve an optimization problem using the MS Excel Solver tool shown in this study was successfully employed by a student of ChE M.Eng. at Rey Juan Carlos University and the Autónoma University of Madrid in the development of her master thesis.
Exploring the experiences of young people completing the YP‐CORE to capture clinical need on a digital counselling platform
Authors: Mindel Charlotte , Oppong Crystal , Jacob Jenna
Published: April 2021

Background

Assessing clinical mental health needs through standardised mental health assessment measures is commonplace within young people's mental health services. To date, any investigation into the use of such measures within online services has been limited.

Aims

The aim of this research is to contribute to the knowledge base of young people's motivation to complete voluntary standardised mental health assessment measures and how the accuracy of the information derived may be improved.

Methods

Participatory action research was utilised to conduct semi‐structured interviews with young people (N = 6). Questions were developed using the frameworks of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Self‐Determination Theory. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, to develop global themes in response to the research aims.

Findings

Global themes identified (N = 6) from six interviews referring to the areas of motivation and experience include “Drivers,” “Behavioural Preferences,” “Outcomes of Being Honest,” “Discomfort,” “Internal harmony” and “Self‐sabotaging beliefs.”

Conclusions

The findings from this small‐scale research demonstrate the need for transparency online, to instil trust in those completing standardised mental health assessment measures. This may be implemented through co‐designed visual materials which contribute to the young people's understanding of how the data collected through assessment will be used and what the response of the service will be following assessment.
Know how to avoid Title IX violations when eliminating sports
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: April 2021

The impact of COVID‐19 on the college athletics landscape has been significant. With some exceptions, spring and fall sports seasons were canceled, many corporate partnerships remain on hold, and revenues from numerous sources declined. Yet, each institution was and still is confronted with the need to meet ongoing financial obligations to its coaches, staff members, and student‐athletes, along with payments associated with the construction of or ongoing renovations to various facilities. In short, the pool of money available to meet all of these continuing requirements suddenly and precipitously shrank. Few institutions were prepared for the magnitude of the financial impact given the unexpected nature of the pandemic.
Comply with latest protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity
Authors: Patterson Jollee Faber , Burris Erin
Published: April 2021

Institutions of higher education should pay close attention to recent events increasing protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, as both the U.S. Supreme Court and President Joe Biden have taken significant action on this front, and more changes are likely on the horizon. Just last year, the U.S. Supreme Court expanded employment protections under Title VII to prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. And on the first day of his presidency, President Biden issued an executive order announcing that those same protections will apply under his administration's enforcement of Title IX. In February 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Equality Act, which would amend the Civil Rights Act to include protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, public accommodations, and other services. Although the Equality Act will still need to pass in the Senate, it's clear there are growing legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and education institutions must act accordingly.
Embrace new approach to planning, communication to stay connected, effective through challenging times
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2021

Before COVID‐19 hit, the day‐to‐day work of running a college athletics department required lots of planning and communication. But once the pandemic impacted college sports, planning and communication presented unfamiliar challenges for college athletics administrators everywhere, including Doug Spiwak, Director of Athletics at Harper College, who first began working in college athletics in 1982.
Se(IV) Immobilization onto Natural Siderite: Implications for High‐Level Nuclear Waste Repositories
Authors: Pavón Sandra , Martínez Maria , Giménez Javier , de Pablo Joan
Published: April 2021

Sorption processes of metals and semimetals on siderite are studied because of its potential adequacy for removing contaminants from natural waters and its wide availability, as well as its capacity to reduce the oxidation state of some contaminants such as selenium. In this work, it has been demonstrated that siderite reduces selenite ions in solution, showing a higher selenium immobilization capacity compared to other iron(III) minerals, which is probably due to both sorption and reduction processes.
Pd/TiO2 Coated in a Microscale‐Based Reactor by Electrophoretic Deposition for Biohydrogenated Diesel Production
Authors: Sa-ngasaeng Yanika , Sirimungkalakul Nichaporn , Boonyongmaneerat Yuttanant , Jongpatiwut Siriporn
Published: April 2021

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) was applied for the coating of a Pd/TiO2 catalyst for the production of biohydrogenated diesel (BHD) in a microscale‐based reactor. The coating of TiO2 using EPD was investigated under various operating conditions. The Pd/TiO2 catalysts prepared by EPD were compared with the samples obtained by the conventional washcoating (WC) technique. The optimum EPD condition giving a high degree of adhesion was determined, using Tiron and Pluronic F127 as the additives. The coated catalysts were tested for their catalytic activity. By comparing with Pd/TiO2(WC), Pd/TiO2(EPD) catalysts exhibited a higher catalytic performance which could be explained by their uniformity, high amount of Ti3+ species, and oxygen vacancies.
Improving the Cβ Stereoselectivity of l‐Threonine Aldolase for the Synthesis of l‐threo‐4‐Methylsulfonylphenylserine by Modulating the Substrate‐Binding Pocket To Control the Orientation of the Substrate Entrance
Authors: Wang Lichao , Xu Lian , Su Bingmei , Lin Wei , Xu Xinqi , Lin Juan
Published: April 2021

l‐Threonine aldolase from Actinocorallia herbida (AhLTA) is an ideal catalyst for producing l‐threo‐4‐methylsulfonylphenylserine [(2S,3R)‐1 b], a key chiral precursor for florfenicol and thiamphenicol. The moderate Cβ stereoselectivity is the main obstacle to the industrial application of AhLTA. To address this issue, a combinatorial active‐site saturation test (CAST) together with sequence conservatism analysis was applied to engineer the AhLTA toward improved Cβ stereoselectivity. The optical mutant Y314R could asymmetrically synthesize l‐threo‐4‐methylsulfonylphenylserine with 81 % diastereomeric excess (de), which is 23 % higher than wild‐type AhLTA. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations revealed that the mechanism for the improvement in Cβ stereoselectivity of Y314R is due to the acylamino group of residues Arg314 controlling the orientation of substrate 4‐methylsulfonyl benzaldehyde (1 a) in the active pocket by directed interaction with the methylsulfonyl group; this leads to asymmetric synthesis of l‐threo‐4‐methylsulfonylphenylserine. The success in this study demonstrates that direct control of substrates in an active pocket is an attract strategy to address the Cβ stereoselectivity problem of LTA and contribute to the industrial application of LTA.
Quasi‐maximum exponential likelihood estimation for double‐threshold GARCH models
Authors: Zhang Tongwei , Wang Dehui , Yang Kai
Published: April 2021

We consider the nonparametric inference for the double‐threshold generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic models. The quasi‐maximum exponential likelihood estimators (QMELEs) of the model parameters are obtained, and their asymptotic properties are established. Simulation studies imply that the estimators are asymptotically normally distributed. An empirical investigation of stock returns illustrates our findings. Both the simulations and the example indicate that the QMELE is feasible, reliable and appropriate to fit the financial time series data of the Hang Seng Index.
Prevalence and predictors of cancer‐related worry and associations with health behaviors in adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: McDonnell Glynnis A. , Brinkman Tara M. , Wang Mingjuan , Gibson Todd M. , Heathcote Lauren C. , Ehrhardt Matthew J. , Srivastava Deo Kumar , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Alberts Nicole M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Cancer‐related worry (CRW) is common among cancer survivors; however, little is known about factors associated with CRW or its impact on health behaviors in adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

Survivors in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study (n = 3211; 51% male; mean age, 31.2 years [SD, 8.4 years]; mean time after diagnosis, 22.8 years [SD, 8.3 years]) underwent medical evaluations and completed ratings of CRW, psychological symptoms, and health behaviors. Multivariable modified Poisson regression models examined associations between CRW and treatment exposures, chronic health conditions, psychological symptoms, and health behaviors.

Results

Sixty‐four percent of survivors (95% confidence interval [CI], 62.6‐65.9) reported worry about subsequent malignancy, 45% (95% CI, 43.5‐46.9) reported worry about physical problems related to cancer, and 33% (95% CI, 31.2‐34.4) reported worry about relapse. Multiple psychological symptoms, treatment exposures, and chronic conditions significantly increased the risk of CRW. Survivors reporting CRW were at increased risk for substance use, inadequate physical activity, and increased health care utilization after adjustments for chronic conditions. For example, with adjustments for chronic conditions, those who endorsed CRW were more likely to have ≥5 cancer‐related physician visits, ≥5 physician visits related to cancer, and ≥5 calls to a physician's office in the previous 2 years in comparison with survivors who were not worried. CRW was also associated with an increased risk of current tobacco use, past marijuana use, and current marijuana use.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of adult survivors of childhood cancer reported CRW associated with increased health care utilization. CRW may serve as an intervention target to promote well‐being and adaptive health behaviors.
Forecasting essential childhood cancer drug need: An innovative model‐based approach
Authors: Hughes Terence M. , Empringham Brianna , Wagner Anita K. , Ward Zachary J. , Yeh Jennifer , Gupta Sumit , Frazier A. Lindsay , Denburg Avram E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Childhood cancer outcomes in low‐income and middle‐income countries have not kept pace with advances in care and survival in high‐income countries. A contributing factor to this survival gap is unreliable access to essential drugs.

Methods

The authors created a tool (FORxECAST) capable of predicting drug quantity and cost for 18 pediatric cancers. FORxECAST enables users to estimate the quantity and cost of each drug based on local incidence, stage breakdown, treatment regimen, and price. Two country‐specific examples are used to illustrate the capabilities of FORxECAST to predict drug quantities.

Results

On the basis of domestic public‐sector price data, the projected annual cost of drugs to treat childhood cancer cases is 0.8 million US dollars in Kenya and 3.0 million US dollars in China, with average median price ratios of 0.9 and 0.1, respectively, compared with costs sourced from the Management Sciences for Health (MSH) International Medical Products Price Guide. According to the cumulative chemotherapy cost, the most expensive disease to treat is acute lymphoblastic lymphoma in Kenya, but a higher relative unit cost of methotrexate makes osteosarcoma the most expensive diagnosis to treat in China.

Conclusions

FORxECAST enables needs‐based estimates of childhood cancer drug volumes to inform health system planning in a wide range of contexts. It is broadly adaptable, allowing decision makers to generate results specific to their needs. The resultant estimates of drug need can help equip policymakers and health governance institutions with evidence‐informed data to advance innovative procurement strategies that drive global improvements in childhood cancer drug access.
Psychological intervention with adult victims of sexual abuse: A comprehensive review
Authors: Fávero Marisalva , Moreira Diana , Abreu Beatriz , Del Campo Amaia , Moreira Diana Sá , Sousa‐Gomes Valéria
Published: April 2021

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a phenomenon that is ubiquitous to all cultures and social classes. It has short‐ and long‐term consequences, with specific treatment models that have been developed and adapted from psychological intervention models. A wide variety of studies have sought to evaluate the results of treatments with adult CSA survivors. This study presents an overview of research on the treatment of adult victims of CSA, by reviewing the existing literature on the types of treatment and the most studied psychotherapeutic avenues, and reports the findings related to the efficacy of these treatments. It is possible to conclude that psychological intervention exhibits benefits in the reduction of symptoms resulting from the experience of CSA and demonstrates the need to conduct further research on the effectiveness of intervention.
(Photo)electrocatalytic Versus Heterogeneous Photocatalytic Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Bellardita Marianna , Loddo Vittorio , Parrino Francesco , Palmisano Leonardo
Published: April 2021

The present review summarizes some of the main results achieved in electrochemical, photocatalytic, and (photo)‐electrocatalytic systems for the reduction of carbon dioxide. After a preliminary survey of the electrocatalytic and photocatalytic systems in terms of materials used, efficiencies, operating conditions, and product distribution, it is shown how the combination of the two approaches affords often higher efficiency than the single technologies and allows better control of the product distribution. In fact, the peculiar energetic distribution at the interface of irradiated semiconductors under opportune electrical bias enables enhancement of the spatial separation of the photogenerated charges and minimization of the external energy required in electrochemical applications. Even though the efficiency of CO2 reduction is still far away from being industrially appealing, in some cases the photoelectrocatalytic systems are promising tools to be further investigated for sustainable green chemistry based CO2 utilization. The aim of this review is to examine the strengths and the weaknesses of the different approaches considering that sometimes one of the three methods can be used more successfully than the others, depending on the desired product(s) and the materials used as photocatalysts or as the (photo)electrode.
Localizing Peptidoglycan Synthesis in Helicobacter pylori using Clickable Metabolic Probes
Authors: Taylor Jennifer A. , Santiago Cintia C. , Gray Joe , Wodzanowski Kimberly A. , DeMeester Kristen E. , Biboy Jacob , Vollmer Waldemar , Grimes Catherine L. , Salama Nina R.
Published: April 2021

The bacterial cell wall, composed of peptidoglycan (PG), provides structural integrity for the cell and is responsible for cell shape in most bacteria. Here we present tools to study the cell wall using a clickable PG‐specific sugar, 2‐alkyne muramic acid (MurNAc‐alk), as a metabolic probe. Here we present a new reaction pathway for generating MurNAc‐alk. We also include protocols for labeling PG synthesis in Helicobacter pylori, determining the identity of the labeled muropeptides using LC‐MS/MS, sample preparation of cells labeled for a short fraction of the doubling time, and visualization using 3D structured illumination microscopy. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Alternative synthesis of MurNAc‐alk (direct coupling)

Support Protocol 1: Growing Helicobacter pylori in liquid culture

Support Protocol 2: Fosfomycin rescue assay

Basic Protocol 2: Mass spectrometry (MS) analysis to determine incorporation of MurNAc‐alk within the peptidoglycan of H. pylori

Support Protocol 3: Hayashi test to determine if SDS is present in the supernatant of peptidoglycan preparations

Support Protocol 4: Creating custom cytocentrifuge units for use in a swinging‐bucket tabletop centrifuge

Basic Protocol 3: Labeling H. pylori with MurNAc‐alk or D‐Ala‐alk

Basic Protocol 4: Structured illumination microscopy (SIM) imaging on the DeltaVision OMX
Performance and Limitations of Nickel‐Doped Chromite Anodes in Electrolyte‐Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Riegraf Matthias , Amaya‐Dueñas Diana M. , Sata Noriko , Friedrich K. Andreas , Costa Rémi
Published: April 2021

Ni‐doped chromite anodes were integrated into electrolyte‐supported cells (ESC) with 5×5 cm2 size and investigated in fuel cell mode with H2/H2O fuel gas. Both a stoichiometric and a nominally A‐site deficient chromite anode material showed promising performance at 860 °C approaching the ones of state‐of‐the‐art Ni/Gd‐doped ceria (CGO) anodes. While the difference in polarization resistance was small, an increased ohmic resistance of the perovskite anodes was observed, which is related to their limited electronic conductivity. Increasing the chromite electrode thickness was shown to enhance performance and stability considerably. Degradation increased with current density, suggesting its dependency on the electrode potential, and could be reversed by redox cycling. Sulfur poisoning with 20 ppm hydrogen sulfide led to rapid voltage drops for the chromite anodes. It is discussed that Ni nanoparticle exsolution facilitates hydrogen dissociation to the extent that it is not rate‐limiting at the investigated temperature unless an insufficiently thick electrode thickness is employed or sulfur impurities are present in the feed gas.
Ring oscillators yield analysis: Improving Monte Carlo models with optimized clustering methods
Authors: Lalléchère Sébastien , Xu Zhifei , Nebhen Jamel , Wan Fayu , Ravelo Blaise
Published: April 2021

The aim of this article is to demonstrate the interest of the optimized clustering method (OCM) when dealing with the yield analysis of ring oscillators, given uncertain assumptions over inputs. Indeed, the complementary metal–oxide semiconductor (CMOS) integrated circuit domain is facing a major challenge since these devices are subjected to noticeable fluctuations (mostly due to transistor constant scaling down at sub‐micron sizes), with utmost expectations regarding their performances (e.g., for digital circuits). Whether the classical approach requires use of Monte Carlo methods coupled with classical circuit solver (e.g., Spice and/or transistor model), the natural complexity of systems and varying inputs needs to provide alternative techniques, such as OCM. The foundations of the method and its efficiency will be presented and illustrated through ring oscillator applications.
Nested code division multiple access for distance measuring equipment interference mitigation in L‐band digital aeronautical communication system
Authors: Abd‐Elaty Emad , Zekry Abdelhalim , El‐Agooz Salah , Helaly Anwar M.
Published: April 2021

Air‐to‐ground (A/G) communications have been transferred from the congested very high frequency (VHF) band to occupy the guard bands between adjacent distance measurement equipment (DME) navigation channels within the L‐Band. However, the inlayed channels, called L‐band digital aeronautical communication system (LDACS) channels, experience severe interference with the coexisting DME channels. In this paper, a DME interference detection and mitigation technique is proposed to improve the performance of the LDACS in the presence of DME interference. The DME energy detector based on Neyman–Pearson test is proposed, which has more advantages than the other techniques due to its noncoherent nature and simplicity. Furthermore, the proposed DME detection technique is performed by using an adaptive threshold to achieve the best trade‐off between the DME signal detection and false alarm. The proposed DME interference mitigation technique relies on the proposed concept of nested RF upconversion, where the in‐phase and the quadrature components of an LDACS signal are forwarded to a code division multiple access (CDMA) block in which they are transmitted only over the quadrature branch once DME interfering signal is detected. In this work, the closed form expression for the probability of DME detection, false alarm, and the detection error rate are derived. Simulation is performed, and the results show that the proposed technique provides improvement in the probability of DME detection and the detection error rate compared to the previous work. Also, simulation results shows that the proposed technique provides lower bit error rate and less complexity compared to the previous work.
The role of rapid on site evaluation on touch imprint cytology and brushing during conventional bronchoscopy
Authors: Botticella Maria Antonietta , De Summa Simona , Cisternino Luigi , Tommasi Stefania , Pastena Maria Irene , Schirosi Laura , Mangia Anita , Mele Fabio , Lozupone Antonietta , Scattone Anna , Siciliano Michele , Sozio Rosa , Zito Francesco Alfredo
Published: April 2021

Background

The increase in immunohistochemical and molecular predictive tests in lung cancer requires new strategies for managing small samples taken during bronchoscopic procedures. The value of Rapid On Site Evaluation (ROSE) during conventional bronchoscopic procedures on endobronchial neoplasms in optimizing small biopsies and cytologlogical tissue specimens for diagnostic testing, and ancillary studies was evaluated.

Method

ROSE on touch imprint cytology (TIC) and brushing was performed on 690 consecutive cases of patients undergoing biopsies, using fiber optic bronchoscopy. Immunohistochemical assay for PD‐L1, ALK, and ROS1 and molecular testing, via next generation technique for EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF, were performed.

Results

The concordance between ROSE and final diagnoses was almost perfect for brushing (sensitivity: 0.84; specificity: 0.96), and less so for touch preparations (sensitivity: 0.77; specificity: 0.89). Immunohistochemical assay for PD‐L1 was evaluated on 256 bioptic cases with only six unsuitable samples. Material available for immunohistochemistry for ALK was sufficient in 151 biopsies with no inadequate cases. ROS1 was evaluated in 132 biopsies, with only two unsuitable samples. Molecular analysis was performed on 128 biopsies, 29 TIC, and 17 brushing. Out of these, only ten were considered to be unsuitable.

Conclusions

ROSE is an effective procedure for monitoring the quality and quantity of material taken during conventional bronchoscopic procedures for evaluating the suitability of small samples that must undergo immunohistochemical and molecular assay.
Performance Improvement of Acid Pretreated 3D‐printing Composite for the Heavy Metal Ions Analysis
Authors: Shin Jae‐Hong , Seo Kyeong‐Deok , Park Hyun , Park Deog‐Su
Published: April 2021

The performance enhancement of 3D‐printed electrode comprised of polylactic acid (PLA) and graphite (Gr) doped with graphene oxide (GO) was studied to detect five heavy metal ions in trace level. The pretreatment of PLA/Gr/GO electrode with potential cycling in H2SO4 solution achieved the most sensitive response. The characteristics of the composite electrodes were verified using XPS, FE‐SEM, EDXS, Raman, and impedance spectroscopy. The experimental variables affecting the response current were optimized with respect to pH, deposition time, ratio of PLA/Gr/GO, and supporting electrolytes. The pretreated 3D‐PLA/Gr/GO electrode showed a wide dynamic range from 0.5 ppb to 1.0 ppm with low detection limits of 0.039–0.13 ppb. The reliability of the PLA/Gr/GO electrode was evaluated by analyzing the reference samples of European Reference Materials.
Career and Technical Education as a Conduit for Skilled Technical Careers: A Targeted Research Review and Framework for Future Research
Authors: Haviland Sara , Robbins Steven
Published: April 2021

Workforce development and career and technical education (CTE) have long provided reliable pathways to middle skill jobs and a gateway to the middle class. Given recent changes in middle skills jobs, the education landscape, and federal policy priorities, the role of CTE in the U.S. educational landscape is evolving more rapidly, encompassing a broader range of education, and practices are changing ahead of research. The first part of this report provides an overview of the current state of CTE in the United States, as well as the state of CTE research, and presents an argument for a broader definition of CTE that incorporates workforce development through postsecondary institutions. The second part provides operational definitions and typologies to facilitate future research. Our aim is to build a research framework for CTE that is grounded in a normative path through CTE: getting in (preparation and recruitment), getting through (retention and skill acquisition), getting out (completion and initial hire), and getting on (career progression). Key challenges and priorities for future research are discussed.
Discovery of the protolepidodendralean lycopsid Leclercqia from the Middle to Upper Devonian of Inner Mongolia, northeastern China
Authors: Bai Lingqi , Huang Pu , Liu Jianbo , Xue Jinzhuang
Published: April 2021

The protolepidodendralean lycopsid Leclercqia represents one of the best studied Devonian plants, with a worldwide distribution, but is not known from the palaeocontinents that constitute the present northeastern China. Two species of the genus, Leclercqia cf. L. complexa and Leclercqia sp., are described for the first time from the Hanuo Obo Formation of Dong Ujimqin Qi, Inner Mongolia, northeastern China, an area poorly documented by record of early vascular plants. The first species is characterized by three‐dimensional, five‐tipped leaves, which show a long, downwardly recurved, central segment and two pairs of short, lateral segments, while the latter species bears seven‐tipped leaves and more robust axes. Our discovery confirms that the Hanuo Obo Formation is a distinctive lithological unit in Inner Mongolia, and suggests a Middle to Late Devonian (but no later than Frasnian) age for this formation based on the global spatio‐temporal occurrence of Leclercqia. The present finding indicates the spread of protolepidodendraleans to the Xing'an Block, or a part of the Mongolian Block, representing the northernmost distribution of this group during the Devonian.
Effects of Metformin on the virus/host cell crosstalk in human papillomavirus‐positive cancer cells
Authors: Hoppe‐Seyler Karin , Herrmann Anja L. , Däschle Antonia , Kuhn Bianca J. , Strobel Tobias D. , Lohrey Claudia , Bulkescher Julia , Krijgsveld Jeroen , Hoppe‐Seyler Felix
Published: April 2021

Oncogenic types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are major human carcinogens. The viral E6/E7 oncogenes maintain the malignant growth of HPV‐positive cancer cells. Targeted E6/E7 inhibition results in efficient induction of cellular senescence, which could be exploited for therapeutic purposes. Here we show that viral E6/E7 expression is strongly downregulated by Metformin in HPV‐positive cervical cancer and head and neck cancer cells, both at the transcript and protein level. Metformin‐induced E6/E7 repression is glucose and PI3K‐dependent but—other than E6/E7 repression under hypoxia—AKT‐independent. Proteome analyses reveal that Metformin‐induced HPV oncogene repression is linked to the downregulation of cellular factors associated with E6/E7 expression in HPV‐positive cancer biopsies. Notably, despite efficient E6/E7 repression, Metformin induces only a reversible proliferative stop in HPV‐positive cancer cells and enables them to evade senescence. Metformin also efficiently blocks senescence induction in HPV‐positive cancer cells in response to targeted E6/E7 inhibition by RNA interference. Moreover, Metformin treatment enables HPV‐positive cancer cells to escape from chemotherapy‐induced senescence. These findings uncover profound effects of Metformin on the virus/host cell interactions and the phenotype of HPV‐positive cancer cells with implications for therapy‐induced senescence, for attempts to repurpose Metformin as an anticancer agent and for the development of E6/E7‐inhibitory therapeutic strategies.
Systemic toxicities of trastuzumab‐emtansine predict tumor response in HER2+ metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Tang Shou‐Ching , Capra Carter L. , Ajebo Germame H. , Meza‐Junco Judith , Mairs Simon , Craft Barbara S. , Zhu Xiaofu , Maihle Nita , Hillegass William B.
Published: April 2021

The mechanism by which trastuzumab‐emtansine (T‐DM1) causes systemic toxicities apart from trastuzumab alone is currently unknown. We hypothesized that the systemic toxicities from T‐DM1 may have been caused by the free and active maytansine released from the lysed HER2+ tumor cells, and if so, they may correlate with the response to treatment and eventually disease‐free survival or patient outcome. In a retrospective, observational study, we evaluated 73 patients from three centers in the United States and Canada with advanced HER2+ breast cancer that received at least one dose of T‐DM1. Toxicity grades were summed to create a corresponding toxicity sum score (TSS), and its association with clinical outcomes was analyzed. A higher TSS was significantly associated with longer progression‐free survival with an HR = 0.66 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47‐0.92], P = .014, for each 1‐point increase in the TSS score. Adjusted for baseline platelet count, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, higher TSS remains significantly associated with longer progression‐free survival with adjusted HR = 0.67 [95% CI: 0.47‐0.93], P = .020. The analysis suggests that the systemic toxicities of T‐DM1 were significantly correlated with its clinical efficacy. This is the first report to correlate the systemic toxicities of T‐DM1 with clinical outcome. Further, this suggests that systemic toxicities of antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs) may serve as a predictive biomarker, particularly if noncleavable linkers are used. If confirmed in larger prospective studies, the present finding is significant because most ADCs do not have a biomarker predictive of clinical outcome other than the presence or absence of the antibody target.
The Manchester‐Fothergill technique: Browsing in the cutting‐edge art gallery
Authors: Marquini Gisele V. , de Jarmy di Bella Zsuzsanna I.K. , Sartori Marair G.F.
Published: April 2021

Background

No consensus regarding the surgical strategy for repairs of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has existed since the writings of Hippocrates. Archibald Donald of Manchester, in 1888, quite independently began to treat cases of prolapsus uteri with a combined operation of anterior and posterior colporrhaphy and amputation of the cervix.

Objective

To describe the surgical technique of Manchester‐Fothergill and to chart its history.

Search strategy

A bibliographic search was performed of the PubMed and National Library of Medicine (NIH) databases.

Selection criteria

The terms “Manchester‐Fothergill” AND “History” AND “Pelvic Organ Prolapse” were searched from the first publication on this topic (1951) to December 2020.

Data collection and analysis

Data were extracted from studies independently by two authors. All types of relevant abstracts were selected and analyzed due to the scarcity of studies (books and documents, clinical trials, meta‐analysis, randomized controlled trial, review and systematic review).

Main results

Although this is a well‐described procedure in historic texts, the practical application is not often employed, and modern surgical texts rarely describe how to perform this surgery. The advantages of the Manchester‐Fothergill technique include maintenance of the pelvic anatomy, integrity, a reduction of intraoperative blood loss, and shortened operation times and hospital stays.

Conclusion

Many young gynecologists are not familiar with this operation; therefore, it is important to provide training and exposure to the Manchester‐Fothergill technique in the practice of gynecological surgery.
Evaluating bowel movements, self‐initiations, and problem behavior with the emergence of urinary continence
Authors: Perez Brandon C. , Morris Samuel L. , Bacotti Janelle K. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: April 2021

Much of the research evaluating toilet training interventions for children with ASD has focused on urinations as the primary dependent variable. As a result, the effects that toilet training interventions targeting urinations may have on other related dependent variables remains unclear. We conducted a retrospective analysis of data obtained by Perez et al. (2020), who evaluated the effects of a treatment package on urinary continence in children with ASD. We examined the relation between the emergence of urinary continence and multiple nontargeted dependent variables: bowel movements, self‐initiation correspondence, percentage of appropriate urinations that were self‐initiated, self‐initiation rate, and problem behavior. Results showed that improvements in urinary continence were strongly correlated with improvements in all nontargeted dependent variables. Implications for future research and clinical practice are discussed.
Teaching comprehension of double‐meaning jokes to young children
Authors: Jackson Marianne L. , Nuñez Rocio M. , Maraach Dana , Wilhite Chelsea J. , Moschella Jp D.
Published: April 2021

Various forms of humor are an important aspect of social interactions, even at an early age. Humor comprehension is a repertoire that is said to emerge between the ages of 7 and 11 years, and this is primarily attributed to a child's level of cognitive development. The behavioral literature has suggested that various forms of complex verbal behavior, including the use and comprehension of humor, are learned operants that can be taught using systematic teaching procedures. The current study used multiple exemplar training and a three‐step error correction procedure to teach comprehension of double‐meaning jokes to 4 children (2 females and 2 males) aged between 5 and 6.5 years old. All participants demonstrated humor comprehension and appreciation, across multiple exemplars, following training, and maintained this at follow‐up. Implications for use with clinical populations are discussed.
Understanding the molecular mechanism of γ‐elimination of nitrous acid in the framework of the molecular electron density theory
Authors: Kącka‐Zych Agnieszka , Jasiński Radomir
Published: April 2021

The reactions of γ‐dehydronitration of furaxanenitrolic acids have been studied within the density functional theory using molecular electron density theory scheme at the MPWB1K(PCM)/6‐311G(d,p) level of theory. The alteration of bonding along the course of the reaction is studied in the topology of the electron density functional within the bonding evolution theory perspective. The characteristics of electron density changes indicate that we can distinguish six different phases in the nitrous acid extrusion from furaxanenitrolic acid 1a. These different phases related to the intrinsic reaction coordinate path of the analyzed reaction denote the non‐concerted nature of the molecular mechanism.