bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Segmented Macromolecules of Linear and Grafted Topologies
Authors: Tsitsilianis Constantinos
Published: March 2022

In this article, synthetic strategies based on controlled/living polymerization methods that lead to well‐defined multi‐segmented (more than two building blocks) linear A/B triblock, pentablock, and multiblock copolymers, along with more complex topologies with increasing number of building blocks, differing in chemical nature (e.g. ABC, ABCD) and topology (linear and grafted architectures) are demonstrated and highlighted. The recent years, novel synthetic strategies, including “click” coupling reactions and iterative procedures, have endowed the synthetic capabilities toward developing novel macromolecular architectures with precisely controllable molecular characteristics. Attention has also been given to segmented topologies in which one or more blocks are constituted of random copolymers, targeting precise tuning of the properties of the relevant segments. This chemical diversity, integrated into a single segmented macromolecule, endows the multi‐segmented polymers with multi‐functionality and stimuli responsiveness, leading thus to polymeric materials with promising advanced applications in the context of nanotechnology and nanomedicine.
Polymer Networks*
Authors: Gu Yuwei , Zhao Julia , Johnson Jeremiah A.
Published: March 2022

Polymer networks, which are materials composed of many smaller components – referred to as “junctions” and “strands” – connected together via covalent or noncovalent/supramolecular interactions, are arguably the most versatile, widely studied, broadly used, and important classes of materials known. From the first commercial polymers through the plastics revolution of the twentieth century to today, there are almost no aspects of modern life that are not impacted by polymer networks. Nevertheless, there are still many challenges that must be addressed to enable a complete understanding of these materials and facilitate their development for emerging applications ranging from sustainability and energy harvesting/storage to tissue engineering and additive manufacturing. Here, we provide a unifying overview of the fundamentals of polymer network synthesis, structure, and properties, tying together recent trends in the field that are not always associated with classical polymer networks, such as the advent of crystalline “framework” materials. We also highlight the recent advances in using molecular design and control of topology to showcase how a deep understanding of structure–property relationships can lead to advanced networks with exceptional properties.
Novel Polymer Systems for Gene Therapy
Authors: Diaz‐Dussan Diana , Peng Yi‐Yang , Narain Ravin
Published: March 2022

Gene therapy is a novel molecularly directed gene‐editing technique that can be used in treating gene‐related diseases, and its clinical relevance relies on the design of effective therapeutic vectors that are able to deliver and release the nucleic acids to the targeted sites. The use of nanoscale vectors for gene delivery presents various advantages such as improved bioavailability, extended nucleotide half‐life, and reduced off‐target toxicity. Several types of colloidal systems have been developed, including biocompatible polymer carriers, such as nanoparticles, nanocapsules, and branched polymers. A first requisite is biocompatibility; reducing cell cytotoxicity and effective clearance from the organism is one of the major challenges, and particle size is also a key factor in the internalization process. Common cationic gene carriers are summarized here, but their associated cytotoxicity or low efficacy restricted their use at the clinical level. Numerous modifications for enhancing the vectors are introduced, which mainly involved the incorporation of biocompatible units and degradability. Furthermore, several methods in preparing nonviral carrier via controlled radical polymerization and their related postmodification techniques are summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the new generation of therapeutic nanoparticles, which combined selective targeting moieties, and imaging agents, offers a theranostic approach for enhanced gene therapy.
High‐Throughput/High‐Output Experimentation in Polymer Research
Authors: Lechuga‐Islas Víctor D. , Guerrero‐Sanchez Carlos , Guerrero‐Santos Ramiro , Vitz Jürgen , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: March 2022

High‐throughput and high‐output experimental techniques represent suitable approaches to facilitate and speed up the preparation, optimization, and investigation of polymeric materials and polymerization processes. High‐throughput and high‐output screenings (HT/HO) are now recognized as highly efficient and cost‐effective techniques providing clear opportunities for the elucidation of structure–property relationships in polymer libraries. A wide range of important parameters can be investigated with systematic variations of properties, such as molar mass, dispersity, composition, microstructure, and other application‐specific properties. Moreover, the implementation of effective offline and online characterization techniques in HT/HO workflows has enabled the development of practical and productive methodologies. In recent years, HT/HO approaches have been actively pursued especially by the continuous development of reversible deactivation radical polymerization techniques. The synergy of such techniques, and the further development of computational and data management methods, could facilitate the fast access to complex and well‐defined polymeric materials in highly effective procedures. This contribution outlines the framework of the current status of high‐throughput and high‐output screenings for the synthesis and characterization of polymeric materials. Emphasis is placed on the advantages, current limitations, and the possible extensions and perspectives discussed in the current literature.
Polymerizations in Aqueous Dispersed Media
Authors: Sanders Connor A. , Cunningham Michael F.
Published: March 2022

Heterogeneous polymerizations in aqueous media remain an active area of research with an emphasis on control over polymer architecture and molecular weight. Previously established methods to perform reversible deactivation radical polymerizations have been expanded and will be covered in this article. Recent strategies employ novel catalysts, functional surfactants, and multistep processes to yield stable, and in some cases, high solids content, latexes through a variety of nonconventional chemistries. Moreover, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly has been developed to yield high‐order morphologies in aqueous dispersions in mild conditions. Photoinduced polymerization techniques have seen increasing interest owing to the “green” benefits of using light as a stimulus for polymerization. The goals in this field remain to provide control over polymerizations in aqueous dispersed media while reducing both monetary and environmental costs. This article will cover recent developments in producing water‐based polymer dispersions with control over nanoparticle morphology and functionality and macromolecular structure.
Polymer Crystallization
Authors: Cavallo Dario , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: March 2022

This article presents a brief summary of the basic concepts of polymer crystallization. This is a topic of great academic and practical interest. Polymer crystallization determines the properties of all semicrystalline polymeric materials, which constitute approximately 75% of all plastics commercially produced. Hence, understanding the nucleation, crystallization, and morphology of polymers is fundamental to tailoring their properties for specific applications. This brief review first introduces the way polymer chains crystallize and how they self‐assemble from solution and from the melt, highlighting their morphological complexity. Then, we discuss primary nucleation, flow‐induced nucleation, self‐nucleation, and crystal growth, with particular emphasis on kinetics and the existing theories to model nucleation, growth, and overall crystallization.
Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly: From Macromolecular Engineering Toward Applications
Authors: Coumes Fanny , Stoffelbach François , Rieger Jutta
Published: March 2022

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is nowadays a well‐established technology that is gaining more and more attention from academics and in the industry. It relies on the extension of a solvophilic reactive chain in heterogeneous polymerization conditions. An amphiphilic block copolymer is generated and concomitantly to the growth of the solvophobic block, self‐assembly occurs. PISA was initially developed to achieve radical emulsion polymerizations in the absence of low molecular weight surfactants in order to produce surfactant‐free latexes. Shortly after, it became clear that this technology had also great potential to synthesize well‐defined amphiphilic block copolymers. Finally, researchers became more and more interested in the formed particles themselves (mainly spheres, but also worm and vesicles) and tried to functionalize them for a large variety of applications. In this article, we will start with reviewing the different PISA polymerization techniques, and highlight the possibility to use PISA as a tool to synthesize well‐defined, functional, and complex macromolecular architectures. We will then discuss the main parameters that control the particle morphology, before presenting applications of PISA‐derived particles and dispersions. The article cites more than 400 references, and presents for each polymerization technique a great number of the existing systems in tabular format.
Macromolecular Modeling
Authors: Simmons David S.
Published: March 2022

Polymer molecular modeling is particularly challenging due to the role of multibody effects and the large range of time and length scales involved. Mean‐field descriptions of many polymer phenomena are well established; however, they typically do not provide for quantitative prediction and often miss or do not address important qualitative features of polymer behavior. Given the massive chemical space available, improvements in modeling and prediction are crucial to polymer design. To overcome these challenges, modelers increasingly employ hybrid approaches in which multiple complementary theoretical frameworks are applied to the same molecular model. This article provides a tutorial introduction to this area. We discuss a conceptual taxonomy for classifying and understanding modeling approaches, survey key theoretical frameworks and molecular models, and discuss factors based on which one might choose among them. Particular attention is given to molecular dynamics (MD) simulations as a versatile baseline capability, with a focus on the aspects of particular challenge and importance in treating polymers. Finally, we review examples of hybrid approaches that combine these methods to treat polymer phenomena that are challenging to treat via any single method alone, including both combination of multiple physics‐based theoretical frameworks and combination of physics‐based modeling with data‐based and optimization methods.
Shape Memory‐Induced Self‐Healable Polymers
Authors: Wang Siyang , Davydovich Dmitriy , Urban Marek W.
Published: March 2022

This article discusses the recent advances in self‐healable polymers that take advantage of shape memory effects (SMEs) in the presence of H‐bonding and van der Waals (vdW) forces. Two general mechanisms that involve interfacial energy and SME‐driven self‐healing responsible for macroscopic wound closure are explored. Interfacial energy‐driven self‐healing involves the formation of a mobile layer at the newly formed interfaces due to the presence of dangling ends or chain slippage, whereas SME recovery is an entropically driven process quantified by viscoelastic length transitions (VLTs) detected in dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The presence of highly polar H‐bonding or/and nonpolar vdW interactions plays a significant role in self‐healing. Nonpolar vdW inter‐ or intrachain interactions contribute to SME‐driven recovery by activating entropic energy stored during damage. Owing to their relatively low activation energies, H‐bonding and interchain vdW forces may independently or collectively facilitate self‐healing, and understanding the molecular contributions of these typically interchain nonpolar and polar interactions provides an opportunity for designing polymers in which the perturbation of these ubiquitous interactions will be energetically unfavorable, thus facilitating autonomous self‐healing.
Fluoropolymers for Automotive and Aerospace Industries
Authors: Bouharras Fatima Ezzahra , Raihane Mustapha , Lopez Gérald , Ameduri Bruno
Published: March 2022

The usefulness of fluoropolymers (PFs) in various items for vehicles, shuttles, and space‐crafts is presented, considering their synthesis, properties, applications, and recycling. The advantages of FPs are first supplied, including outstanding properties (chemical, oxidative, and thermal resistances, and excellent weatherability and durability to avoid obsolescence), as well as their synthesis usually achieved by conventional radical copolymerization of fluoromonomers. They can be composites and shape memory polymers or specific copolymers produced on demand. Applications of specific FPs are discussed in various areas: (i) high‐performance thermoplastic elastomers (composed of central soft blocks and external hard sequences as triblock copolymers) involved as cross‐linked O‐rings or shafts, (ii) flame retardant coatings and liners for planes; (iii) for energy related‐materials (e.g. fuel cell membranes for the next generation of clean energy‐vehicles, reliable components for safer Lithium ion batteries for hybrid vehicles, electroactive devices, etc.).
Advanced Materials for Thin‐Film Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: Recent Progress and Challenges in Boosting the Device Performance at Low Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Jun , Ricote Sandrine , Hendriksen Peter Vang , Chen Yunzhong
Published: March 2022

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are efficient and fuel flexible electrochemical energy conversion devices that can power the future green society with regards to homes, cars, and even down to portable electronics. They do have the potential to become low cost, since no noble metals are used. Their broad commercialization, however, is hampered by the high operating temperatures of 700–900°C. Lowering the operating temperature of SOFCs is challenging as both the charge transport in the solid electrolyte and oxygen exchange reactions are thermally activated processes. Herein, the recent progress in the development of anode, electrolyte, and cathode materials to lower the operating temperature of SOFC below 600°C is summarized and the new opportunities, as well as challenges that remain to be solved, are discussed. The focus of this review is addressed to thin film SOFCs, sub‐micrometer SOFCs (μSOFCs) based on microelectromechanical systems, as well as devices based on proton‐conducting oxide electrolyte (protonic ceramic fuel cells), which are especially promising for powering portable devices.
Low‐Temperature Atomic Layer Deposition of High‐k SbOx for Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Yang Jun , Bahrami Amin , Ding Xingwei , Zhao Panpan , He Shiyang , Lehmann Sebastian , Laitinen Mikko , Julin Jaakko , Kivekäs Mikko , Sajavaara Timo , Nielsch Kornelius
Published: March 2022

SbOx thin films are deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) using SbCl5 and Sb(NMe2)3 as antimony reactants and H2O and H2O2 as oxidizers at low temperatures. SbCl5 can react with both oxidizers, while no deposition is found to occur using Sb(NMe2)3 and H2O. For the first time, the reaction mechanism and dielectric properties of ALD‐SbOx thin films are systematically studied, which exhibit a high breakdown field of ≈4 MV cm−1 and high areal capacitance ranging from 150 to 200 nF cm−2, corresponding to a dielectric constant ranging from 10 to 13. The ZnO semiconductor layer is integrated into a SbOx dielectric layer, and thin film transistors (TFTs) are successfully fabricated. A TFT with a SbOx dielectric layer deposited at 200 °C from Sb(NMe2)3 and H2O2 presents excellent performance, such as a field effect mobility (µ) of 12.4 cm2 V−1 s−1, Ion/Ioff ratio of 4 × 108, subthreshold swing of 0.22 V dec−1, and a trapping state (Ntrap) of 1.1 × 1012 eV−1 cm−2. The amorphous structure and high areal capacitance of SbOx boosts the interface between the semiconductor and dielectric layer of TFT devices and provide a strong electric field for electrons to improve the device mobility.
Eliminating Solvents and Polymers in High‐Performance Si Anodes by Gas‐Phase Assembly of Nanowire Fabrics
Authors: Rana Moumita , Pendashteh Afshin , Schäufele Richard S. , Gispert Joaquim , Vilatela Juan J.
Published: March 2022

Developing sustainable battery electrode manufacturing methods is particularly pressing for alloying‐type active materials, such as silicon, which often require additional energy‐intensive and solvent‐based processing to reinforce them with a buffer matrix. This work introduces a new method to fabricate Si anodes as continuous, tough fabrics of arbitrary thickness, without processing solvents, polymeric binders, carbon additives, or any reinforcing matrix. The anodes consist of percolated networks of long Si nanowires directly assembled from suspension in the gas phase, where they are grown via floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition. A high Si content above 75 wt.% in a textile‐like network structure leads to high‐performance electrode properties. Their gravimetric capacity is 2330 mAh g–1 at C/20 for all thicknesses produced, reaching areal capacities above 9.3 mAh cm–2 at C/20 and 3.4 mAh cm–2 at 1C (with 3.4 mg cm–2). Analysis of rating data gives a high transport coefficient (6.6 × 10–12 m2 s–1) due to a high out‐of‐plane electrical conductivity (0.6 S m–1) and short solid‐state diffusion length. Si remains a percolated network of elongated elements after extended cycling, preserving electrical conductivity and leading to a capacity retention of 80% after 100 cycles at C/5 and ≈60% after 500 cycles at C/2. When integrated with an NMC111 cathode, a full cell gravimetric energy density of 480 Wh kg–1 is demonstrated.
Process safety assessment of semibatch nitration of naphthalene with mixed acid to 1‐nitronaphthalene
Authors: Liang Jun , Ni Lei , Wu Peihong , Yao Hang , Chen Qiang , Fu Gang , Jiang Juncheng
Published: March 2022

In this study, different calorimetric and analytical techniques were used to evaluate the thermal behavior of the preparation of 1‐nitronaphthalene through the nitration of naphthalene with mixed acid. Differential scanning calorimetry and adiabatic calorimetry revealed that 1‐nitronaphthalene lacks thermal decomposition characteristics. The results of reaction calorimetry, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the density function theory method were combined to analyze the reaction mechanism. An expanded Stoessel criticality diagram was developed to evaluate the process safety of the semibatch nitration reaction. The results revealed a higher degree of risk than that obtained when using the traditional Stoessel criticality diagram. Kinetics parameters of the reaction were investigated.
Habitat effects on reproductive phenotype, pollinator behavior, fecundity, and mating outcomes of a bumble bee–pollinated herb
Authors: Tian Hao , Harder Lawrence D. , Wang Ai‐Ying , Zhang Da‐Yong , Liao Wan‐Jin
Published: March 2022

Premise

Fecundity and mating outcomes commonly differ among plant populations occupying contrasting environments. If self‐pollination occurs primarily among flowers within plants, contrasting reproductive outcomes among populations must reflect environmental effects on plant‐pollinator interactions. Specifically, local conditions could affect features of plant phenotypes that influence pollinator behavior, in turn modifying plant reproductive outcomes.

Methods

We compared phenotypes, pollinator abundance and behavior, and female fecundity and mating in two meadow populations and two forest populations of Aconitum kusnezoffii within 3 km of each other. Mating outcomes were assessed using microsatellites.

Results

Meadow plants generally produced more, shorter ramets with more, larger flowers, but less nectar per flower than forest plants. These differences likely largely represent phenotypic plasticity. Individual bumble bees visited more flowers on forest plants, likely because the more abundant bees in the meadows depleted nectar availability, as indicated by briefer visits to individual flowers. Despite similar fruit set in both habitats, forest plants set more seeds per fruit. Nevertheless, meadow plants produced more seeds overall, owing to sevenfold greater flower production. Consistent with individual bees visiting fewer flowers on meadow plants, more of their seeds were outcrossed. However, the outcrossed seeds of forest plants included more male mates.

Conclusions

Reproductive outcomes can vary among populations of animal‐pollinated plants as a result of differences in the availability of effective pollinators and environmental effects on plant phenotypes, and their functional consequences for pollinator behavior that governs pollen dispersal.
Biodegradable composites of starch/polyvinyl alcohol/soybean hull (Glycine max L.) produced by thermoplastic injection
Authors: Bortolatto Rubiane , Bittencourt Paulo Rodrigo Stival , Yamashita Fabio
Published: March 2022

Soybean hull is an agro‐industrial residue produced abundantly both in Brazil and worldwide. It is generated during the dehulling of the grains for oil production. This work aimed to develop materials using low‐cost, abundant, and biodegradable raw materials, as soybean hull, corn starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and glycerol. Five formulations of thermoplastic starch (TPS) were produced containing between 4% and 19% of ground soybean hull and another five formulations of the same composition but with 6% PVA added. The materials were extruded and injected to produce specimens. They were analyzed by FTIR‐ATR, mechanical tests, mass loss in water, and dimensional variations. The addition of hull to the TPS did not affect the processability of the materials, and the PVA improved the processability. Hull concentration from 8% to 15% increased the tensile strength of the materials, and the PVA reduced them. Soybean hull provided greater dimensional stability to the specimens, especially with PVA and with the highest hull contents (15% and 19%).Content of soy hulls between 8% and 15% acted as a structural reinforcer of TPS materials, forming a composite, as it increased the tensile strength, reduced the elongation, increased the stiffness, and improved the dimensional stability of the materials.
Unravelling the Ghanaian “pull him/her down (PhD) syndrome” of malicious envy
Authors: Kyei J. Joana
Published: March 2022

The “pull him/her down” or the “PhD” syndrome is the Ghanaian colloquial term for malicious envy, the arousal of primitive urges to destroy the good fortune of someone simply because one lacks what the envied other has. Behaviors motivated by malicious envy and which result in the “pulling down” of others in a country classified as collectivistic and highly religious appear contradictory, however, and this paper aims to shed light on this seeming contradiction. Conceptualizations of envy, cultural dimensions of collectivism, religiosity, and patriarchy which counterintuitively enable “pulling down” behaviors, the three different categories of PhD syndrome perpetrators, and the influence of sibling dynamics in the PhD syndrome's enactments are explored. Recommendations for mitigating expressions of the PhD syndrome are also discussed.
Five‐Year Structural Changes in the Knee Among Patients With Meniscal Tear and Osteoarthritis: Data From a Randomized Controlled Trial of Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy Versus Physical Therapy
Authors: Collins Jamie E. , Shrestha Swastina , Losina Elena , Marx Robert G. , Guermazi Ali , Jarraya Mohamed , Jones Morgan H. , Levy Bruce A. , Mandl Lisa A. , Williams Emma E. , Wright Rick W. , Spindler Kurt P. , Katz Jeffrey N. ,   METEOR Investigator Group
Published: March 2022

Objective

To estimate the risk of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based structural changes in knee osteoarthritis (OA) among individuals with meniscal tear and knee OA, using MRIs obtained at baseline and 18 and 60 months after randomization in a randomized controlled trial of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM) versus physical therapy (PT).

Methods

We used data from the Meniscal Tear in Osteoarthritis Research (METEOR) trial. MRIs were read using the MRI OA Knee Score (MOAKS). We used linear mixed‐effects models to examine the association between treatment group and continuous MOAKS summary scores, and Poisson regression to assess categorical changes in knee joint structure. Analyses assessed changes in OA between baseline and month 18 and between months 18 and 60. We performed both intention‐to‐treat and as‐treated analyses.

Results

The analytic sample included 302 participants. For both treatment groups, more OA changes were seen during the early interval than during the later interval. ITT analysis revealed that, between baseline and month 18, APM was significantly associated with an increased risk of having a worsening cartilage surface area score, involving both any worsening across all knee joint subregions (risk ratio [RR] 1.35 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.14, 1.61]) and the number of subregions damaged (RR 1.44 [95% CI 1.13, 1.85]) having a worsening effusion‐synovitis score (RR 2.62 [95% CI 1.32, 5.21]), and having ≥1 additional subregion with osteophytes (RR 1.24 [95% CI 1.02, 1.50]). Significant associations were detected between months 18 and 60 only for having any subregion with a worsening osteophyte score (RR 1.28 [95% CI 1.04, 1.58]).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the association between APM and MRI‐based structural changes in knee OA is most apparent during the initial 18 months after surgery. The reason for attenuation of this association over longer follow‐up merits further investigation.
Inverse‐compensation‐based DETC for nonlinear hysteresis system with disturbance
Authors: Su Liangcai , Su Qiang , Zhao Xinlong
Published: March 2022

To control a nonlinear system with both hysteresis and disturbance, it is necessary to establish a hysteresis model and improve the disturbance rejection ability. However, the input signal implicitly involved in the classical hysteresis model can lead to difficulty in constructing a compensator. In this study, a hysteresis model in explicit form is proposed with a bounded auxiliary variable. Then, a model‐based inverse is constructed for approximate compensation for the hysteresis. Moreover, the compensation error, which is considered a part of the disturbance, is proved to be bounded. Disturbance estimation triggered control (DETC) is utilized to address the compensation error coupled with the external disturbance. According to the disturbance effect indicator (DEI), DETC can improve the system control performance by considering the disturbance effect judgment. Experimental results are presented to illustrate the potential of the proposed technique.
Orbital Elements of visual binary stars with very short arcs: With application to double stars from the 1829 southern double star catalog of James Dunlop
Authors: Letchford Roderick R. , White Graeme L. , Brown Carolyn J.
Published: March 2022

Binary double stars are those whose binding energies are less than zero. Obtaining binary star orbits from short arcs has been a long‐standing problem in astrophysics. A method is presented and tested here, which addresses the problem by using space‐based astrometry, photometry, and astrophysical data, together with historic measures, to generate and constrain a range of possible first‐order Grade 5 orbits. After testing the method on an established binary star, we apply the method to eight double stars from the first published catalog of southern double stars, that of Dunlop (1829) and generate orbits for five. The mean orbital period is ∼81,000 years, and the mean semi‐major axis is ∼76″ with a typical uncertainty of the Orbital Elements of ∼37%. Their Orbital Elements and associated plots are also presented.
Function moves biomolecular condensates in phase space
Authors: Feric Marina , Misteli Tom
Published: March 2022

Phase separation underlies the formation of biomolecular condensates. We hypothesize the cellular processes that occur within condensates shape their structural features. We use the example of transcription to discuss structure–function relationships in condensates. Various types of transcriptional condensates have been reported across the evolutionary spectrum in the cell nucleus as well as in mitochondrial and bacterial nucleoids. In vitro and in vivo observations suggest that transcriptional activity of condensates influences their supramolecular structure, which in turn affects their function. Condensate organization thus becomes driven by differences in miscibility among the DNA and proteins of the transcription machinery and the RNA transcripts they generate. These considerations are in line with the notion that cellular processes shape the structural properties of condensates, leading to a dynamic, mutual interplay between structure and function in the cell.
Acculturation, parenting stress, and children's problem behaviours among immigrant Latinx mothers and fathers
Authors: McWhirter Anna Cecilia , Donovick Melissa R.
Published: March 2022

The Latinx population in the United States has been growing steadily over the last few decades, necessitating the need to better understand the impact of stress and acculturation on Latinx parents and children to provide more targeted community supports. This study examines how parenting stress, within the context of acculturation, is associated with children's internalizing and externalizing behaviours among newly immigrated Latinx families (n = 129). Correlational analyses were used to understand the relationship between acculturation, parenting stress for mothers and fathers, and children's behaviour problems. Regression analyses were used to predict children's behaviours when accounting for acculturation and parenting stress. Results indicated that parent acculturation was not associated with child problem behaviours for mothers or fathers. Maternal parenting stress was associated with child internalizing and externalizing behaviour problems, while paternal parenting stress was associated with child externalizing problems only. Implications and future directions for this research are discussed.
‘Scare the bear’ with tips to address workplace bullying
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: March 2022

Not long ago, I had lunch with a former colleague. She was recounting an incident that happened at her vacation home in Florida when she was cooking a rather fragrant meal. She looked out on the patio to see a black bear tear through the screen and come look in her back door. She called animal control. They said they don't relocate the bears because “they don't do well in the wild.” So, what was she to do? “Scare the bear,” they told her.
Brain MRI detection of early Wernicke’s encephalopathy in a hemodialysis patient
Authors: Aomura Daiki , Kurasawa Yukifumi , Harada Makoto , Hashimoto Koji , Kamijo Yuji
Published: March 2022

A 93‐year‐old hemodialysis patient became hospitalized for thiamine deficiency‐induced appetite loss and ultimately experienced consciousness disorder diagnosed as Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE). Since brain MRI on admission was retrospectively found to display faint WE findings, careful brain MRI assessment is recommended in hemodialysis patients with appetite loss alone.
Very rare near‐haploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia resistant to immunotherapy and CAR‐T therapy in 19‐year‐old male patient
Authors: Arpas Tomas , Jelinkova Hana , Hrabovsky Stepan , Orsulova Martina , Vrzalova Zuzana , Navrkalova Veronika , Brhelova Eva , Bryjova Lenka , Bulikova Alena , Ondrouskova Eva , Sejnohova Marketa , Folber Frantisek , Sedová Petra , Mayer Jiri , Pospisilova Sarka , Jarosova Marie , Doubek Michael
Published: March 2022

Near‐haploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia is rare subgroup of the disease, which is very important due to very poor prognosis and resistance to treatment including novel monoclonal antibodies and CAR‐T therapy.
Ensemble learning of deep learning and traditional machine learning approaches for skin lesion segmentation and classification
Authors: Khan Adil H. , Awang Iskandar Dayang NurFatimah , Al‐Asad Jawad F. , Mewada Hiren , Sherazi Muhammad Abid
Published: March 2022

Melanoma is a type of a skin cancer or lesion which has the detrimental ramifications on the human health but with early diagnosis it can be cured easily. The actual identification of skin lesion is very challenging because of factors like a very minute difference between lesion and skin and it is very difficult to differentiate among skin cancer types due to visual comparability. Hence an autonomous system for the diagnosis of true skin cancer type is very useful. In this article, we took the leverage of ensemble learning by combining the features of deep learning architectures with traditional features extraction approaches. For segmentation, we have two pipelines for the feature extraction. We extract the features through traditional split and merge approach as well as from deep learning algorithms of contextual encoding along with the attention mechanism. Later we combine the features of both architectures and predict the segmented region through intersection over union mechanism. After that segmented region is classified into three types of skin lesion using hybrid features of Alex‐Net and VGG‐16 through the transfer learning approach. The evaluation has been performed using the ISIC and PH2 datasets for which achieved segmentation accuracy is 97.8% and 96.7%, respectively. Moreover, hybrid classification network able to attain the 98.2% accuracy.
Bio‐modified pyrotechnic composite materials for firefighting application
Authors: Pathak Tribhuvan Kumar , Sharma Vandana , Jassal Pyar Singh , Singh Raj Pal , Johar Rajni
Published: March 2022

The traditional aerosol‐forming composites are a mixture of potassium nitrate/chlorate and synthetic resins like phenol‐formaldehyde, melamine‐formaldehyde, polyurethane, and epoxy resin. Though these synthetic organic resins have excellent adhesion and mechanical properties, their high flammability and associated life‐threatening occupational hazard have limited their application. Such compositions' combustion flame may reach up to 2100°C and cause secondary fire risk in an explosive atmosphere, especially ship engine rooms and oil‐producing platforms. This study aimed to investigate the ability of natural flame‐retardant tannic acid, which is a natural phenolic compound abundant in many plants, to reduce the exothermicity of potassium nitrate/chlorate‐based pyrotechnic composite. In the present work, we newly developed a pyrotechnic composition that employed tannic acid as a reducer instead of synthetic resin. Its combustion behaviour, thermal properties, and fire extinguishing performance were comparatively evaluated against phenolic resin‐based traditional pyrotechnic composition. Though both the new and traditional pyrotechnic composition has shown similar fire extinguishing efficacy, the newly developed composition showed 57% lower combustion flame temperature, faster burn rate, and lower calorific value than the traditional composition. The physical and chemical characteristics of the discharged aerosol were characterized by a series of techniques viz; high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis to understand the fire extinguishing mechanism.
Isolation, Characterization, and Depolymerization of l‐Cysteine Substituted Eucalyptus Lignin
Authors: Shi Lanlan , Zhang Tanhao , Zhou Xin , Yao Lu , Yang Linjie , Yue Fengxia , Lan Wu , Lu Fachuang
Published: March 2022

Lignin condensation reactions are hard to avoid or control during separation, which is a deterrent to lignin isolation and post‐conversation, especially for the full utilization of lignocelluloses. Selective protection of β‐aryl ether linkages in the isolation process is crucial to lignin valorization. Herein, a two‐step acid/alkali separation method assisted with l‐cysteine for eucalyptus lignin separation is developed, and the isolated l‐cysteine lignins (LCLs) are comprehensively characterized by 2D NMR, 31P NMR, thioacidolysis, etc. Compared to the two‐step control treatment, a much higher β‐O‐4 content is preserved without reducing the separation efficiency assisted by l‐cysteine, which is also significantly higher than alkali lignin and kraft lignin. The results of hydrogenolysis show that LCLs generate a much higher monomer yield than that of control sample. Structural analysis of LCLs suggests that lignin condensation reaction, to some extent, is suppressed by adding l‐cysteine during the two‐step acid/alkali separation. Further, mechanistic studies using dimeric model compound reveals that l‐cysteine may be the α‐carbon protective agent in the two‐step separation. The role of l‐cysteine in the two‐step lignin isolation method provides novel insights to the selective fractionation of lignin from biomass, especially for the full valorization of lignocellulosic biomass.
Performing postmortem examinations on small animals in first‐opinion practice
Authors: Lee Alison , Wasques Danilo Gouveia
Published: March 2022

Background: Postmortem examination (PME) is often viewed as a specialised procedure, but it is listed as a Day One Competence by the RCVS. The ability to perform a PME confidently in first‐opinion practice may allow veterinarians to confirm their clinical diagnoses, and provides an opportunity for self education and quality control. It is also an important tool for disease surveillance. Clear communication with the animal's owner and obtaining consent are essential before a PME is undertaken. Veterinarians should be aware of situations in which performing a PME may not be appropriate in first‐opinion practice (eg, legal/forensic cases).

Aim of the article: This article discusses the considerations that must be made before undertaking a PME in small animals and outlines the steps involved in the procedure.
Veterinary approach to the amphibian patient
Authors: Naguib Mark
Published: March 2022

Background: Amphibians are commonly kept in the UK but are afforded little time in veterinary curricula and are often grouped with reptiles in veterinary texts and continuing professional development resources. While the approach to the amphibian patient shares some similarities with how reptiles are approached, there are significant zoological, biological and clinical differences. A background knowledge of their anatomy, physiology, biology and husbandry is required in order to successfully diagnose and treat illness. Three orders of amphibian exist: the anura (frogs and toads), the caudata or urodela (newts and salamanders) and the gymnophiona (caecilians). Although the number of amphibian species kept and bred in captivity is vast, practitioners in the UK are likely to encounter some species more commonly than others.

Aim of the article: This article outlines the veterinary approach to the amphibian patient, discusses some of the diagnostic and therapeutic options available and provides an overview of the most common conditions seen in these species.
Findings and outcomes of emergent endoscopies after cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Okamoto Takeshi , Yamamoto Kazuki , Takasu Ayaka , Suzuki Yuichiro , Ikeya Takashi , Okuyama Shuhei , Takagi Koichi , Fujita Nobuko , Misumi Hiroyasu , Fukuda Katsuyuki
Published: March 2022

Aims

Studies detailing endoscopic findings and hemostatic interventions for upper gastrointestinal bleeding after cardiovascular surgery are scarce. We conducted this study to determine the frequency and findings of emergent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) after cardiovascular surgery and the effect of bleeding requiring hemostatic intervention on clinical outcomes.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively reviewed records of emergent EGD examinations conducted within 30 days after cardiovascular surgery at a tertiary referral center in Japan from April 2011 to March 2020. Of 1625 patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery, 47 underwent emergent EGD. Sources of bleeding were identified in 30 cases, including transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)‐related injuries (8 patients), gastric ulcers (7 patients), and duodenal ulcers (7 patients). Patients who required endoscopic hemostatic intervention had more TEE‐related injuries (43% vs 3%, P = 0.005), gastric ulcers (35% vs 6%, P = 0.018), or ulcers in the first part of the duodenum (29% vs 0%, P = 0.006) than those who did not. Intraoperative TEE did not increase the need for endoscopic intervention (71% vs 64%, P = 0.435). Intraoperative TEE and the need for endoscopic intervention did not affect length of stay or all‐cause mortality. Only one death was associated with gastrointestinal bleeding.

Conclusion

Despite the potential severity of bleeding after cardiovascular surgery, most cases can be managed endoscopically with no increase in hospital stay or mortality.
Tin (IV) chloride catalyzed one‐pot synthesis, characterization, and docking studies of 4‐aminoquinoline derivatives as Myt1 inhibitors
Authors: Muddagoni Narasimha , Dasari Mahendar , Bathula Revanth , Potlapally Sarita Rajender
Published: March 2022

An efficient and practical method for the series of 4‐aminoquinoline derivatives has been developed via Tin (lV) chloride catalyzed cascade cyclization from 2‐aminobenzonitrile and different acetophenones. These novel chemical entities were characterized by their 1HNMR, 13CNMR spectra and high‐resolution mass spectrometer (HRMS) with their docking studies were performed to identify potential inhibitors of Myt1kinase protein. The synthesized analogs 3a–3l were docked with Myt1 kinase protein. Among these 3c, 3f, and 3g were showing promising Glide score, prime‐MMGBSA and ADME properties similar to Neratinib, Pelitinib cancer inhibiting drugs of Myt1 kinase protein. The amino acid ASP251of Myt1 kinase protein was consistently binding to novel chemical entities and existing drugs, indicating that the amino acid is crucial and responsible for its inhibition. Docking studies revealed that the compounds 3c, 3f, and 3g indicates that they can act as strong inhibitors of Myt1 kinase protein as that of comparable existing drugs Neratinib, Pelitinib.
Inborn errors of metabolism and their impact in paediatric dentistry
Authors: Hirst Lorna , Chakrapani Anupam , Mubeen Suhaym
Published: March 2022

The management of paediatric patients with inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) presents an unparalleled challenge for paediatric dentists owing to the multiplex of interrelated dental manifestations and metabolic management necessitating modifications to dental care. Inborn errors of metabolism describe a largely heterogenous group of genetic disorders namely attributable to a single gene defect essential for a specific metabolic pathway. Approximately 400 disorders have been described with an overall incidence of 1 in 5000 live births worldwide. Clinical presentation is classically inconspicuous and insidious in the neonatal period with pathophysiology attributable to accumulation of toxic by‐products which interfere with normal function, or insufficient synthesis of essential compounds. This paper aims to discuss the primary oral and maxillofacial manifestations across the scope of inborn errors of metabolism, whilst also considering how metabolic treatment has the propensity to complicate dental management.
Paradoxical pacing spikes during a wide complex tachycardia in biventricular defibrillator. What is the mechanism? Is it undersensing due to troubleshooting?
Authors: Leventopoulos Georgios , Koufou Eleni‐Evangelia , Koros Rafail , Perperis Angelos , Davlouros Periklis
Published: March 2022

We present the case of a 68‐year‐old man with a cardiac resynchronization therapy‐defibrillator Medtronic device implanted 3 years ago, admitted to our hospital due to a wide complex tachycardia with unexpected pacing spikes inside QRS complexes. Although that could be easily attributed to ventricular undersensing, more complicated mechanisms are involved, including the origin of the tachycardia, the parameters of the device, and the position of the device and the leads.
Associations of sarcopenia with graft failure and mortality in patients undergoing living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Sim Ji‐Hoon , Kwon Hye‐Mee , Kim Kyung‐Won , Ko You‐Sun , Jun In‐Gu , Kim Sung‐Hoon , Kim Kyoung‐Sun , Moon Young‐Jin , Song Jun‐Gol , Hwang Gyu‐Sam
Published: March 2022

Recent studies have reported that sarcopenia influences morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. However, few studies have investigated the associations of sarcopenia with short‐term and long‐term graft failure in recipients after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). In this study, we investigated the associations between sarcopenia and graft failure/mortality in patients undergoing LDLT. We retrospectively examined 2816 recipients who underwent LDLT between January 2008 and January 2018. Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the associations between sarcopenia and graft failure/mortality in recipients at 60 days, 180 days, and 1 year and overall. Sarcopenia in the recipient was significantly associated with 60‐day graft failure (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09–3.61; p = 0.03), 180‐day graft failure (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.19–2.88; p = 0.01), 1‐year graft failure (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.01–2.17; p = 0.05), and overall graft failure (HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.08–1.87; p = 0.01). In addition, recipient sarcopenia was associated with 180‐day mortality (HR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.17–3.01; p = 0.01), 1‐year mortality (HR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.01–2.29; p = 0.04), and overall mortality (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.08–1.90; p = 0.01). Preoperative sarcopenia was associated with high rates of graft failure and mortality in LDLT recipients. Therefore, preoperative sarcopenia may be a strong predictor of the surgical prognosis in LDLT recipients.
Hierarchical Organization of Single Crystal Polymorphs of Azobenzene Chromophore in Anisotropic Media Subjected to Local Thermal Gradients upon Cold Spraying
Authors: Sutter Thomas M. , Riley Grant V. , Quasney Kaitlin E. , Kyu Thein , Golovaty Dmitry , Wright Bryan , Youngs Wiley
Published: March 2022

The present article entails the emergence of diverse crystal polymorphs following thermal quenching into various coexistence regions of binary azobenzene chromophore (ACh)/diacrylate (DA) solution and of azobenzene/nematic liquid crystal (E7) mixture. Development of various crystal topologies encompassing rhomboidal and hexagonal shapes can be witnessed in a manner dependent on thermal quenched depths into the crystal + liquid coexistence region of ACh/DA system. Upon spraying with compressed carbon dioxide (CO2) fluid, the local temperature gradient is generated resulting in spherulitic morphology showing discrete lamellae undergoing twisting locally in some regions and branched dendrites or seaweeds in another. When ACh/E7 blend is sprayed using compressed CO2fluid, hierarchical organization of various discrete faceted single crystals including needle, rectangular, rhombus, and truncated hexagonal crystals radiating from the spherulite core can be discerned in a brighter region (off cross‐polarization) polarized optical microscopy (POM) and nematic disclination in a darker cross‐polarized region. Of particular interest is that the observed faceted single‐crystal polymorphs in ACh/E7 may be contrasted to the lamellar twisting and branching observed in the ACh/DA system and plausible mechanisms of polymer spherulitic growth are discussed.