bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of BMI and Waist Circumference with All‐Cause Mortality: A 22‐Year Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Yongjie , Yang Yu , Jiang Huan , Liang Xuan , Wang Yuan , Lu Wenli
Published: March 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine the associations of BMI and waist circumference with all‐cause mortality in a general adult population from the China Health and Nutrition Survey.

Methods

Based on the World Health Organization recommendations, the general adult population was divided into underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 23.0 kg/m2), overweight (23 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 27.5 kg/m2), and obesity (BMI ≥ 27.5 kg/m2), as well as abdominal obesity (waist circumference value ≥ 90 cm for males and ≥ 80 cm for females).

Results

Overweight was associated with lower all‐cause mortality in the 18‐ to 29‐year‐old and 30‐ to 39‐year‐old subgroups in males (P = 0.0490 and 0.0234; hazard ratio: 0.136 and 0.462, respectively), and underweight had the opposite association in the 50‐ to 59‐year‐old and ≥ 60‐year‐old subgroups in males (P = 0.0074 and 0.0398, respectively) and in all subgroups in females except the 30‐ to 39‐year‐old and 50‐ to 59‐year‐old groups (P = 0.0786 and 0.0538, respectively). Abdominal obesity was associated with lower all‐cause mortality in ≥ 60‐year‐old females (P = 0.0071).

Conclusions

Overweight was associated with lower all‐cause mortality in young males and middle‐aged females, but underweight demonstrated the opposite association in all elderly participants. Abdominal obesity could decrease all‐cause mortality in elderly females.
Mathematical formulation of hepatitis B virus with optimal control analysis
Authors: Ullah Saif , Khan Muhammad Altaf , Gómez‐Aguilar J.F.
Published: March 2019

Hepatitis B infection is a serious health issue and causes many deaths around the world. The aim of this paper is to develop a mathematical model with hospitalized population to explore the dynamics of this infection. Initially, we study the model without control and carried out all the basic properties and results including local and global stability. After that, we develop the model with suitable optimal control strategies and explore the necessary optimality conditions using the well known Pontryagin's maximum principle to minimize the spread of hepatitis B in a community. Finally, we present the numerical simulations of both with and without control models to illustrate the feasibility of the control strategy.
Influence of glass fibers and rubber particles on the viscoelastic behavior of polyamide 6,6 blended composites
Authors: Pearson Adam , Oweimreen Tariq Sami , Naguib Hani E.
Published: March 2019

Recently, in many industrial fields, there has been a drive to replace traditional metallic components with high strength polymer composites in the interest of reducing weight. Polyamide 6,6 (PA66) is a high strength thermoplastic and the behavior can be further enhanced by the addition of reinforcing fillers. Here, PA66 matrix has been reinforced with chopped glass fiber as well as hybrid composites containing both glass fiber and rubber particles. First, a baseline characterization of the mechanical properties is presented followed by a report on the thermal transitions, melting, crystallization, and glass transition, for the composite and pure materials. It is found that the filled samples show lower degree of crystallization and that the glass filled samples show lower crystallization and melting temperatures. Additionally, it was found that the glass reinforced samples led to a decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg) while higher testing frequencies corresponded to an increase in Tg. Finally, it was demonstrated that the glass filled compounds were able to better retain their mechanical properties at high temperatures relative to the unreinforced materials. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3960–3970, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Evaluation of a new balloon for fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion in the nonhuman primate model
Authors: Sananès Nicolas , Regnard Pierrick , Mottet Nicolas , Miry Claire , Fellmann Lyne , Haelewyn Laure , Delaine Maïa , Schneider Anne , Debry Christian , Favre Romain
Published: March 2019

What's already known about this topic?

Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Occlusion may improve survival in severe cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. One of the major concerns about tracheal occlusion is the need for balloon removal.

What does this study add?

We developed a new balloon, which allows non‐invasive, easily triggered, and externally controlled reversal occlusion. We describe below how this balloon is operated and report on the first tests conducted on the non‐human primate model.
Patterns of endocrine therapy in a national cohort of early stage HER2‐positive breast cancer patients
Authors: Tervonen Hanna E. , Daniels Benjamin , Tang Monica , Preen David B. , Pearson Sallie‐Anne
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Guidelines recommend ≥5 years of endocrine therapy for hormone receptor‐positive breast cancer patients, but nonadherence and treatment discontinuation are common. We examined adherence trajectories and early discontinuation of endocrine therapy over 5 years from treatment initiation.

Methods

Our retrospective cohort study used a national sample of Australian women dispensed publicly subsidised trastuzumab for early HER2‐positive breast cancer. We included women initiating endocrine therapy between April 2007 and June 2011, followed until June 2016 (n = 2656). We used group‐based trajectory modelling and Kaplan‐Meier analysis to examine patterns of adherence and time to discontinuation and restarting.

Results

We identified five adherence trajectories: quick decline (10.4%), moderate decline (8.6%), quick decline then stable (10.3%), stable with late decline (23.6%), and high and stable (47.2%). Women in the high and stable trajectory group were older and more likely to initiate therapy with anastrozole than women in other groups. Time periods after first 6 months, 1.5, and 4 years from initiation seemed critical in terms of remaining adherent on endocrine therapy; 45.8% of the cohort discontinued endocrine therapy with a median time to discontinuation of 2.6 years (interquartile range 1.0‐4.4), and 45.8% of the women discontinuing restarted treatment (median time 182.0, interquartile range 133.0‐279.0 days).

Conclusions

Our study highlights evidence‐practice gaps in the use of endocrine therapy, with half of our sample experiencing suboptimal adherence or persistence. Trajectory modelling provided detailed information about patterns of nonadherence and critical time periods for adherence to endocrine therapy. This information is important for developing targeted interventions to improve adherence.
Shaping Spectra within Optical Fibers
Authors: Waltermann Christian , Guehlke Philip , Koch Jan , Schippers Wolfgang
Published: March 2019

A unique fiber‐integrated diffraction grating enables a new kind of ultra miniature high‐resolution spectrometer. Within, all components for optical imaging are encoded directly leading to an outstanding ratio of optical resolution to build size. The entire design comprises only two aligned parts and allows a cost‐effective, customizable production, and robust spectrometers. As an exemplary application we present a compact interrogation system for fiber Bragg grating sensors.
Smart Infrared Cameras for Industry 4.0
Authors: Echt Pascal
Published: March 2019

In contrast to classical imaging in the visible spectral range, temperature imaging with infrared cameras has only made its way into industry to a very limited extent. The application possibilities of this technology are extremely diverse, though, and often it would allow a considerable increase in productivity and product quality. A new device‐related approach with smart cameras removes all obstacles for practical use and makes the full potential of temperature imaging in industrial environments accessible.
Non‐Contact Imaging of the Magnetic Signature of Historical Tape Recordings
Authors: Blondeau Jean , Franke Ute
Published: March 2019

Historically valuable film material, dating from the first half of the last century, is prone to decay. A non‐contact magneto‐optical method according to Faraday was used to directly read the magnetization in the tape as an imaging of the magnetic signature. For this purpose, a special winding table has been developed which enables the evaluation of the analogue waveform over the entire length of the tape. The sensor system can be integrated into existing film copying tables or future digitization or restoration systems. All main octaves (six main octaves corresponding to 125 Hz to 8000 Hz) can be captured, mapped, corrected, and reproduced.
Synthesis of highly transparent and heat‐resistant polyimides containing bulky pendant moieties
Authors: Wu Qi , Ma Xiaoru , Zheng Feng , Lu Xuemin , Lu Qinghua
Published: March 2019

A new diamine with bulky pendant biphenyl and ortho‐position dimethyl structures, 4,4′‐((1,1′‐biphenyl)‐4‐ylmethylene)bis(2,6‐dimethylaniline), was synthesized via a one‐pot reaction of 4‐biphenyl carboxaldehyde and 2,6‐dimethylaniline. The diamine was employed to polymerize with several dianhydrides via one‐step condensation under high‐temperature conditions. The light yellow or colorless polyimide (PI) films obtained were found to have cut‐off wavelengths in the range 286–358 nm and transmittance over 80% in the visible region (400–780 nm). Meanwhile, these PIs possessed excellent solubility in common organic solvents, even in low‐boiling‐point solvents such as chloroform (CHCl3), dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) and tetrahydrofuran. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the PIs were determined to exceed 343 °C, even to 456 °C. All PI films were flexible with a tensile strength of 78–119 MPa, a Young's modulus of 2.0–2.5 GPa and elongation at break of 4.0%–8.2%. Therefore, these colorless PIs can be used as candidate materials for flexible display substrates. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluating the Sensoria Smart Socks Gait Monitoring System for Rehabilitation Outcomes
Authors: Yeung Julia , Catolico Davis , Fullmer Niko , Daniel Russell , Lovell Ryan , Tang Ruiqi , Pearson Elise M. , Rosenberg Sheila S.
Published: March 2019

Background

Gait monitoring is important for rehabilitation but clinic‐based measurements provide a brief snapshot of gait patterns. Many consumer‐based activity monitors facilitate continuous gait monitoring in daily life but may be subject to measurement errors. This study examines a novel consumer‐based activity monitor that is worn on the feet, and therefore not susceptible to inaccurately detecting upper body movements as gait.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical validity of Sensoria smart socks, a commercially available wireless gait monitoring technology.

Design

A method comparison study between the GAITRite, a criterion standard for clinical gait monitoring, and Sensoria smart socks.

Setting

Outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

Participants

Thirty individuals capable of supervised ambulation, with or without assistive devices, were recruited through the use of flyers and emails. Data were analyzed for 29 participants. Fifteen participants had no neurologic diagnosis. Fourteen participants had a neurologic diagnosis that could result in gait impairments. Diagnoses included Parkinson disease, stroke, brain injury, developmental delay, and acoustic neuroma.

Methods

Participants completed three gait trials with simultaneous measurements by the smart socks and the GAITRite.

Main Outcome Measures

Measurements of step count, cadence, and velocity were compared between the two gait monitoring systems.

Results

There was no significant difference in step count measurements between the two systems. Although there was a significant difference in cadence measurements for the total sample group, the mean difference fell within the GAITRite Standard Error of Measurement. There was no significant difference in velocity measurements for the total sample group and the mean difference fell within the GAITRite Standard Error of Measurement.

Conclusion

These results support the clinical validity of the smart socks for measuring step number and velocity. Further investigation is warranted to determine the efficacy and clinical value of the smart socks system for measuring cadence and for monitoring gait over longer distances outside the clinic.

Level of Evidence

III
Cost‐effectiveness of an intervention to reduce fear of cancer recurrence: The ConquerFear randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shih Sophy Ting‐Fang , Butow Phyllis , Bowe Steven J. , Thewes Belinda , Turner Jane , Gilchrist Jemma , Mihalopoulos Cathrine ,   On behalf of the ConquerFear research group
Published: March 2019

Objective

Alongside a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the efficacy of the ConquerFear intervention for reducing fear of cancer recurrence in cancer survivors, the cost‐effectiveness of this novel intervention was assessed, primarily from the health sector perspective, with broader societal productivity impacts assessed.

Methods

Health care resource use was collected by a tailored cost diary. Incremental costs were calculated as the difference in total costs between the intervention and control groups. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated by cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility analyses, comparing incremental costs with incremental outcomes measured. Nonparametric bootstrap analysis was performed to evaluate uncertainty in costs and outcomes.

Results

Cancer survivors were randomized into ConquerFear (n = 121), or an active control group receiving relaxation training (n = 101). Participants received on average 3.69 sessions, incurring an average cost of $297 per person, with no group difference. The ITT analysis results indicated a mean ICER $34 300 per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) with average incremental cost $488 and health gain of 0.0142 QALYs, from the health care sector perspective. Bootstrap analysis showed 30% of iterations were dominant and overall 53% ICERs were cost‐effective as judged by the commonly used $50 000/QALY threshold.

Conclusions

The ConquerFear intervention is associated with a modest cost and may provide good value for money, but further evidence is needed. Long‐term cost‐effectiveness needs further investigation to capture full benefits from the intervention beyond the trial follow‐up.
Parents' psychological well‐being when a child has cancer: Contribution of individual and family factors
Authors: Salvador Ágata , Crespo Carla , Barros Luísa
Published: March 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of individual (positive reappraisal) and family factors (parenting satisfaction, couple relationship quality, and family life difficulty) to the psychological well‐being (PWB) of parents of children/adolescents diagnosed with cancer.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted at two pediatric oncology wards in Portugal. Two‐hundred and five parents of pediatric patients with cancer completed self‐report questionnaires assessing the use of positive reappraisal as a coping strategy, parenting satisfaction, relationship quality, family life difficulty, and PWB. Sociodemographic and clinical data were also assessed.

Results

Standard multiple regression analysis showed a significant contribution of both individual‐ and family‐level factors to parents' PWB. Specifically, the use of positive reappraisal as a coping strategy, parenting satisfaction, and relationship quality were associated with higher PWB; conversely, family life difficulty was linked to lower PWB. Sociodemographic (child's age and family's socioeconomic status) and clinical variables (time since diagnosis and treatment status) were not associated with PWB.

Conclusions

The present study identified potential resources for parents' adaptation to this stressful situation, contributing with insightful conclusions for both research and clinical practice. Screening and addressing both individual‐ and family‐level aspects may be crucial to foster parents' well‐being when a child is diagnosed with cancer.
High continuous positive airway pressure in neonates: A physiological study
Authors: Mukerji Amit , Wahab Muzafar Gani Abdul , Mitra Souvik , Mondal Tapas , Paterson Debie , Beck Jennifer , Fusch Christoph
Published: March 2019

Objective

We sought to evaluate physiological cardiorespiratory implications of high pressures (>8 cmH2O) on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in preterm neonates.

Methods

Fifteen preterm neonates at postmenstrual age ≥32 weeks on CPAP 5 cmH2O were enrolled. Pressures were increased by 2 cmH
2O increments until 13 cmH
2O. At each increment, cardiac output, electrical diaphragmatic (Edi) activity, and clinical cardiorespiratory parameters were measured. Predefined cut‐off values for changes in cardiorespiratory parameters were used as termination criteria. Data, presented as mean (SD), were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

The mean GA, age at study, and weight of subjects were 27.4 (2.6) weeks, 58.5 (35.5) days, and 2.3 (0.6) kg, respectively. The median (IQR) time at each CPAP increment was 10 (5, 20) min. Cardiac output (mL/kg/min) at 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 cmH
2O were not different at 295 (75), 290 (66), 281 (69), 286 (73), and 292 (58), respectively (P = 0.99). Edi values demonstrated a trend towards decline at 9 cmH
2O before rising again. No other cardiorespiratory parameter was different across CPAP levels; no subject met termination criteria.

Conclusion

High CPAP levels were well tolerated for short durations. Further physiological and clinical research is required on safety/efficacy in neonates with more severe lung disease, as well as its impact over longer durations.
Lipid composition and macromolecular crowding effects on CYP2J2‐mediated drug metabolism in nanodiscs
Authors: Huff Hannah C. , Maroutsos Demetri , Das Aditi
Published: March 2019

Lipid composition and macromolecular crowding are key external effectors of protein activity and stability whose role varies between different proteins. Therefore, it is imperative to study their effects on individual protein function. CYP2J2 is a membrane‐bound cytochrome P450 in the heart involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and xenobiotics. In order to facilitate this metabolism, cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR), transfers electrons to CYP2J2 from NADPH. Herein, we use nanodiscs to show that lipid composition of the membrane bilayer affects substrate metabolism of the CYP2J2‐CPR nanodisc (ND) system. Differential effects on both NADPH oxidation and substrate metabolism by CYP2J2‐CPR are dependent on the lipid composition. For instance, sphingomyelin containing nanodiscs produced more secondary substrate metabolites than discs of other lipid compositions, implying a possible conformational change leading to processive metabolism. Furthermore, we demonstrate that macromolecular crowding plays a role in the lipid‐solubilized CYP2J2‐CPR system by increasing the Km and decreasing the Vmax, and effect that is size‐dependent. Crowding also affects the CYP2J2‐CPR‐ND system by decreasing both the Km and Vmax for Dextran‐based macromolecular crowding agents, implying an increase in substrate affinity but a lack of metabolism. Finally, protein denaturation studies show that crowding agents destabilize CYP2J2, while the multidomain protein CPR is stabilized. Overall, these studies are the first report on the role of the surrounding lipid environment and macromolecular crowding in modulating enzymatic function of CYP2J2‐CPR membrane protein system.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a single dose Nilotinib in individuals with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pagan Fernando L. , Hebron Michaeline L. , Wilmarth Barbara , Torres‐Yaghi Yasar , Lawler Abigail , Mundel Elizabeth E. , Yusuf Nadia , Starr Nathan J. , Arellano Joy , Howard Helen H. , Peyton Margo , Matar Sara , Liu Xiaoguang , Fowler Alan J. , Schwartz Sorell L. , Ahn Jaeil , Moussa Charbel
Published: March 2019

Nilotinib is a broad‐based tyrosine kinase inhibitor with the highest affinity to inhibit Abelson (c‐Abl) and discoidin domain receptors (DDR1/2). Preclinical evidence indicates that Nilotinib reduces the level of brain alpha‐synuclein and attenuates inflammation in models of Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously showed that Nilotinib penetrates the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) and potentially improves clinical outcomes in individuals with PD and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). We performed a physiologically based population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (popPK/PD) study to determine the effects of Nilotinib in a cohort of 75 PD participants. Participants were randomized (1:1:1:1:1) into five groups (n = 15) and received open‐label random single dose (RSD) 150:200:300:400 mg Nilotinib vs placebo. Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were collected at 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after Nilotinib administration. The results show that Nilotinib enters the brain in a dose‐independent manner and 200 mg Nilotinib increases the level of 3,4‐Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA), suggesting alteration to dopamine metabolism. Nilotinib significantly reduces plasma total alpha‐synuclein and appears to reduce CSF oligomeric: total alpha‐synuclein ratio. Furthermore, Nilotinib significantly increases the CSF level of triggering receptors on myeloid cells (TREM)‐2, suggesting an anti‐inflammatory effect. Taken together, 200 mg Nilotinib appears to be an optimal single dose that concurrently reduces inflammation and engages surrogate disease biomarkers, including dopamine metabolism and alpha‐synuclein.
Synaptic and Digital Switching in Diffusion Effect‐Assisted Oxides for All‐Inorganic Flexible Memristor
Authors: Zhang Wanli , Mao Yanhu , Duan Weijie
Published: March 2019

In this work, an all‐inorganic memristor based on In ion‐diffused Al2O3 (IAO) is realized by low temperature solution method. Compared to single layer devices, the electrical properties of IAO‐based memristor are highly improved. In this device, both of synaptic and digital switching can be observed by controlling the applied voltage. At a low applied voltage, the memristor exhibits synaptic switching behavior including gradual switching, learning process, forgetting process, and relearning process. If a higher voltage is applied, the switching behavior is changed to digital bipolar switching which could be also archived in bending condition. The switching mechanism is dominated by oxygen vacancies modulation on concentration and formation energy. This novel device can be expected to open a new road for hybrid and printable circuits including synaptic and digital flexible memristors.
New absolute stability results for Lurie systems with interval time‐varying delay based on improved Wirtinger‐type integral inequality
Authors: Zhang Liansheng , Wang Shuxia , Yu Wei , Song Yongduan
Published: March 2019

This work focuses on the absolute stability problem of Lurie control system with interval time‐varying delay and sector‐bounded nonlinearity. Firstly, we present a refined Wirtinger's integral inequality and establish an improved Wirtinger‐type double integral inequality. Secondly, a modified augmented Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional (LKF) is constructed to analyze the stability of Lurie system, where the information on the lower and upper bounds of the delay and the delay itself are fully exploited. Based on the proposed integral inequalities and some bounding techniques, the upper bound of the derivative of the LKF can be estimated more tightly. Accordingly, the proposed absolute stability criteria, formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities, are less conservative than those in previous literature. Finally, numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness and advantage of the proposed method.
What do core practices offer in preparing novice science teachers for equitable instruction?
Authors: Kang Hosun , Zinger Doron
Published: March 2019

This study explores the affordances and constraints of using the four core practices of ambitious science teaching (AST) as the main curriculum of science methods courses in preparing novice teachers for equitable instruction. Employing a longitudinal qualitative case study approach, this study follows three novice secondary science teachers' trajectories over 3 years, from their preparation to their second year of teaching. Participants were three White women who taught primarily Latinx, English learners, exceptional learners, and/or those who live in poverty. The contemporary vision of science learning promoted by the Next Generation Science Standards and critical race theory guide our analysis of novice teachers' instruction. Findings suggest that using AST practices as the main curriculum of science methods courses can help prepare novice teachers for equityifthe approximation of these practices facilitates novices in problematizing their normalized views, expectations, and practices of disciplinary teaching and learning. The core practices are limited, however, in their ability to develop novice teachers' critical consciousness about racism and systemic inequity, which profoundly affects interactions with marginalized youth in classrooms.
A Novel Surface‐Tethered Double‐Signal Electrochemiluminescence Sensor Based on Luminol@Au and CdS Quantum Dots for Mercury Ion Detection
Authors: Hu Yunxia , Liu Yuan , Wang Sui , Guo Zhiyong , Hu Yufang , Xie Hongzhen
Published: March 2019

A novel surface‐tethered double‐signals electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensor has been developed for the detection of mercury (II) ions (Hg2+). Firstly, cysteamine functionalized CdS quantum dots (CdS QDs‐Cys) as one of ECL nanoprobes were deposited onto the glass carbon electrode. Then electrode was modified with carboxylated thymine via the carboxyl groups of thymine and amino groups of CdS QDs‐Cys. Due to the specific recognition between thymine and Hg2+, the above electrode acted as the substrate to capturing target Hg2+, which could further bind luminol@Au‐Cys‐T multifunctional nanoarchitecture. It was found that the ECL intensity of luminol and CdS QDs both increased with the increasing of mercury ion concentration. Under the optimum condition, the logarithm of the ratio of two signals was linearly proportionally to the logarithmic concentrations of Hg2+ in the range 0.005 ∼ 2.5 nM with a limit of detection of 0.002 nM (S/N=3). The novel sensor displayed good reproducibility and sensitivity and provided an alternative analytical approach for the following research.
Phenazine‐Based Fluorescence “Turn‐Off” Sensor for Fluoride: Application on Real Samples and to Cell and Zebrafish Imaging
Authors: Naha Sanay , Velmathi Sivan
Published: March 2019

In the present work, we report the design of a novel chemosensor 2‐(1H‐indole‐3‐yl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐b]phenazine, (R) for fluoride ion detection via a naked eye observable colour change from light yellow to brown along with 10 fold ratiometric fluorescence quenching from green to no fluorescence in a matrix containing a large number of similar toxic anions in aqueous dimethylsulfoxide (30% H2O + DMSO) solution. The sensing mechanism was ascertained to be the fluoride triggered deprotonation of imidazole as well as indole moiety of R which is supported by 1:2 saturation level equivalence of R‐F‐. R was fully characterized through FT‐IR, 1H, 13C NMR and HRMS. R is an effective receptor for F‐ within a wide range of pH that indicates its bio‐compatibility. LoD and Ka for F‐ were found to be 1.8×10‐6 M (below 0.34 mg/Liter) and 2.7 × 104 M‐1 respectively. The experimental observations were supported by the theoretical calculations using density functional theory. R also showed its potential practical applicability for fluoride detection in toothpaste solution. Furthermore, to prove its nontoxicity, probe R also applied to a cytotoxicity assay of HeLa cells followed by confocal fluorescence cells imaging and Zebrafish imaging experiments.
Photoresponsive Self‐Assembled DNA Nanomaterials: Design, Working Principles, and Applications
Authors: Tam Dick Yan , Zhuang Xinyu , Wong Sze Wing , Lo Pik Kwan
Published: March 2019

Photoresponsive DNA nanomaterials represent a new class of remarkable functional materials. By adjusting the irradiation wavelength, light intensity, and exposure time, various photocontrolled DNA‐based systems can be reversibly or irreversibly regulated in respect of their size, shape, conformation, movement, and dissociation/association. This Review introduces the most updated progress in the development of photoresponsive DNA‐based system and emphasizes their advantages over other stimuli‐responsive systems. Their design and mechanisms to trigger the photoresponses are shown and discussed. The potential application of these photon‐responsive DNA nanomaterials in biology, biomedicine, materials science, nanophotonic and nanoelectronic are also covered and described. The challenges faced and further directions of the development of photocontrolled DNA‐based systems are also highlighted.
Dynamically Programmed Switchable DNA Hydrogels Based on a DNA Circuit Mechanism
Authors: Oishi Motoi , Nakatani Kazuki
Published: March 2019

Biological stimuli‐responsive DNA hydrogels have attracted much attention in the field of medical engineering owing to their unique phase transitions from gel to sol through cleavage of DNA cross‐linking points in response to specific biomolecular inputs. In this paper, a new class of biological stimuli‐responsive DNA hydrogels with a dynamically programmed DNA system that relies on a DNA circuit system through cascading toehold‐mediated DNA displacement reactions is constructed, allowing the catalytic cleavage of cross‐linking points and main chains in response to an appropriate DNA input. The dynamically programmed DNA hydrogels exhibit a significant sharp phase transition from gel to sol in comparison to another DNA hydrogel showing noncatalytic cleavage of cross‐linking points due to synchronization of the catalytic cleavage of cross‐linking points and the main chains. Further, the sol–gel phase transitions of the DNA hydrogels in response to the DNA input are easily tunable by changing the cross‐linking density. Additionally, with a structure‐switching aptamer, DNA hydrogels encapsulating PEGylated gold nanoparticles can be used as enzyme‐free signal amplifiers for the colorimetric detection of adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP); this detection system provides simplicity and higher sensitivity (limit of detection: 5.6 × 10−6 m at 30 min) compared to other DNA hydrogel‐based ATP detection systems.
High Efficient Hole Extraction and Stable All‐Bromide Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells via Derivative‐Phase Gradient Bandgap Architecture
Authors: Tong Guoqing , Chen Taotao , Li Huan , Song Wentao , Chang Yajing , Liu Jingjing , Yu Linwei , Xu Jun , Qi Yabing , Jiang Yang
Published: March 2019

Inorganic perovskite materials have demonstrated outstanding performance in the field of photovoltaic devices due to their superior charge carrier transport properties and excellent thermal stability. In particular, the inorganic perovskite derivative phases show special properties in terms of phase stability and optoelectronic application, especially in the phase transition investigation. However, their commercial applications still face challenges due to the large recombination at the interface, resulting in poor efficiency and metastable phases such as iodide perovskite existing in the film. Herein, an all‐bromide inorganic perovskite solar cell has been developed by introducing the derivative phases (CsPb2Br5 and Cs4PbBr6) to construct gradient bandgap architecture. This graded heterojunction device is realized with a controllable sequential vapor deposition procedure. The valance band maximum elevates gradually with the presence of derivative phases and effectively blocks electrons and boosts the hole extraction efficiency at the counter electrode, which promotes charge separation and reduces the interface recombination. Ultimately, an impressive power conversion efficiency of 10.17% is achieved through a CsPbBr3/CsPbBr3‐CsPb2Br5/CsPbBr3‐Cs4PbBr6 architecture strategy with excellent stability above 3000 h (85% of initial performance) in a humid environment (@RH ≈45%) and 700 h (83% of initial efficiency) under thermal conditions (@ 100 °C).
Assessing the compressive strength of concrete under sustained actions: From refined models to simple design expressions
Authors: Tasevski Darko , Fernández Ruiz Miguel , Muttoni Aurelio
Published: March 2019

The detrimental influence of high levels of sustained load on the compressive strength of concrete has been acknowledged and investigated since the 1950s. Despite the potential significance of this phenomenon in many situations, current design codes still provide limited guidance on how to account for this effect at ultimate limit state. In addition, the practical case of a significant permanent stress followed by stress increases due to variable loads is not addressed in most codes of practice. The aim of this paper is to present a general but simple design approach to account for the influence of sustained loading on the uniaxial behavior of concrete in compression, both in terms of its strength and deformation capacity. This approach is based on a previously developed mechanical model accounting for nonlinear creep and material damage development on the long‐term response of concrete. On that basis, a design approach is formulated in a simple code‐like manner and used to investigate several practical design situations involving both sustained and variable actions. This approach is shown to be consistent and applicable to any general loading pattern, accurately reproducing the results of the general mechanical model and of available experimental results.
Pregnant Women's Experiences of Crisis Pregnancy Centers: When Abortion Stigmatization Succeeds and Fails
Authors: Kimport Katrina
Published: March 2019

There is broad consensus that abortion is stigmatized, but the role of interpersonal interaction in this process is underspecified. I examine interviews with 25 women in the United States who visited crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs)—antiabortion organizations that offer one‐on‐one “prolife counseling”—for how and when interactions matter for abortion stigmatization. I identify two primary ways CPC counselors stigmatized abortion and describe variation in their impact: counselors' efforts were “successful,” were misrecognized as ideologically‐neutral, or were resisted. The findings demonstrate the importance of women's current consideration of abortion and preexisting beliefs for understanding how interpersonal interactions contribute to abortion stigma.
Improvement in electrostatic discharge robustness of a gallium‐nitride‐based flip‐chip high‐electron mobility transistor with a metal–insulator–metal capacitor structure
Authors: Cheng Nan‐Hung , Chen Yung‐Fang , Chang Liann‐Be , Kuei Ping‐Yu , Ferng Yi‐Cherng , Das Atanu , Lin Shu‐Liang , Lin Ching‐Chi
Published: March 2019

We report the improvement in the electrostatic discharge (ESD) characteristics of an AlGaN/GaN high‐electron mobility transistor (HEMT) with a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) capacitor structure on an aluminum nitride (AlN) flip‐chip (FC) submount. Compared with an HEMT without an FC, the measured results for the HEMT with an FC revealed improvements of 25% and 150% under drain‐to‐source and gate‐to‐source ESD stress, respectively. This improvement can be attributed to an additional stress‐bypassing path formed in the MIM structure on the AlN FC submount that allowed the flow of ESD current and supported the charge by using additional capacitance. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaluation of the histopathological extent of neoplastic infiltration in intestinal tumours in cats
Authors: Morrice Michael , Polton Gerry , Beck Sam
Published: March 2019

With the exception of intestinal lymphoma, surgery is the most commonly recommended treatment for solitary feline intestinal tumours. However, there is a lack of evidence to substantiate resection margin recommendations for these tumours. The aim of this study was to add knowledge concerning resection margins for discrete intestinal masses in cats. Thirty confirmed feline intestinal tumours removed at veterinary centres across theUKfrom March 2017 to March 2018 underwent histological assessment at the palpable edge of the intestinal tumour and then at every 1 cm increment to the surgeon‐cut tissue border in oral, aboral and mesenteric directions. Histological margin recommendations were developed for carcinoma and lymphoma tumour types and non‐lymphoma intestinal tumours collectively. Seventeen intestinal lymphomas, nine carcinomas, two sarcomas and two mast cell tumours were evaluated in this study. Seven of the nine intestinal carcinomas would have been completely removed with histological margins of 4 cm in oral and aboral directions. Both sarcomas and one mast cell tumour would have been removed in their entirety with 4 cm histological margins in oral and aboral directions. There was extensive and varied microscopic invasion of intestinal tissue away from discrete intestinal lymphomas in the majority of the cases in this study. There is increasing evidence in veterinary as well as human literature supporting the role of surgical resection in the treatment of discrete intestinal lymphoma. If surgery is to be considered this study supports the removal of the gross tumour only. A histological margin of 4 cm should be considered, where possible, for intestinal masses other than lymphomas.
A reduction in triclosan and triclocarban in water resource recovery facilities’ influent, effluent, and biosolids following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's 2013 proposed rulemaking on antibacterial products
Authors: Brose Dominic A. , Kumar Kuldip , Liao Anna , Hundal Lakhwinder S. , Tian Guanglong , Cox Albert , Zhang Heng , Podczerwinski Edward W.
Published: March 2019

Pharmaceutical and personal care product compounds (PPCPs) comprise a large and diverse group of chemical compounds, including prescription and over‐the‐counter drugs and cleaning agents. Although PPCPs in the effluent and biosolids of water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) are currently not regulated, public interest has led the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago to monitor for 11 PPCPs in the influent, effluent, and biosolids at its seven WRRFs. In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule establishing that 19 specific ingredients, including triclosan and triclocarban, were no longer generally recognized as safe and effective, which prohibits companies from marketing soaps as antibacterial if they contain one or more of these ingredients. It was presumed that since the proposed rulemaking in 2013, manufacturers began to remove these active ingredients from their products. Annual monitoring of 11 PPCPs from 2012 to 2017 demonstrated a 71% decrease in triclosan and 72% decrease in triclocarban in per capita influent loading into seven WRRFs. There was a 70% decrease in triclosan and 80% decrease in triclocarban concentrations in biosolids. These declines suggest the FDA rule for the reduction in use of these compounds was effective and resulted in manufacturers removing these ingredients from their products.

Practitioner points

Reduction in triclosan and triclocarban per capita influent loading observed from 2012 to 2017.

Reduction in triclosan and triclocarban biosolids loading observed from 2012 to 2017.

2016 FDA rulemaking on antimicrobial soaps was effective in removing triclosan and triclocarban from these products.

Positive impact on quality of biosolids land applied to farmland.
Integration of catalytic ozonation and adsorption processes for increased efficiency of textile wastewater treatment
Authors: Xu Shengkai , Bi Huaqi , Liu Guangqing , Su Bensheng
Published: March 2019

Advanced and optimized textile wastewater treatment by catalytic ozonation and activated carbon (AC) adsorption was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicated that Mn and Ce oxides were successfully loaded on the γ‐Al2O3 support, and MnO2, Mn2O3, CeO2, and Ce2O3 were the main components of the catalyst. Actual textile wastewater from biochemical effluent was used as experiment wastewater. The removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and chromaticity were approximately 30.6% (414–287 mg/L on average) and 99.3% (4,033 times to 27 times on average), respectively during the 30‐day on‐site continuous‐flow test with an ozone dosage, contact time, and gas–liquid ratio of 100 mg/L, 15.7 min, and 2.9, respectively. Following 1 g/L AC adsorption, the effluent COD concentration was reduced to 40 mg/L. By contrast, AC adsorption without catalytic ozonation as pretreatment required 10 g/L AC dosage to achieve similar treatment results. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses indicated that volatile phenols, sulfides, and aniline in wastewater were completely removed after treatment. Inductively coupled plasma results further showed that the active components of MnOx–CeOx in the catalyst were stable after continuous use for 60 days.

Practitioner points

Mesoporous catalyst synthesized by impregnating MnOx–CeOx on γ‐Al2O3 support.

Catalytic ozonation and AC adsorption were combined to degrade organics.

Maximum degradation of COD and chromaticity by optimizing process variables.

The efficiency of the method was compared to that of single AC adsorption.
Vitis species, vintage, and alcoholic fermentation do not drive population structure in Starmerella bacillaris (synonym Candida zemplinina) species
Authors: Raymond Eder María Laura , Conti Francisco , Bely Marina , Masneuf‐Pomarède Isabelle , Albertin Warren , Rosa Alberto Luis
Published: March 2019

The yeast species Starmerella bacillaris (synonym Candida zemplinina) is widely associated with oenological ecosystems and is frequently isolated from grape and grape must. Previous work showed that the genetic diversity of this species is high in wine environments and it is shaped by geographic location. Most analysed C. zemplinina strains, however, have been isolated from Vitis vinifera, disregarding the existence of other worldwide‐distributed Vitis species used in winemaking. In this work, we address the impact of the Vitis species and geographic location on the genetic diversity of C. zemplinina. Microsatellite genotyping analysis was applied to two remarkable populations of C. zemplinina from Argentina and Portugal (Azores Archipelago), isolated from neighbouring V. vinifera and Vitis labrusca vineyards. The study also included a large population of previously characterized worldwide‐isolated C. zemplinina strains. Genetic analyses confirmed that geographic localization significantly shaped the genetic diversity of C. zemplinina. No genetic differentiation on the basis of the Vitis species was recorded, indicating that C. zemplinina populations from neighbouring V. vinifera and V. labrusca vineyards are genetically homogeneous. In addition, no impact of the vintage was found on the C. zemplinina populations being both highly diversified and homogeneous during initial stages of alcoholic fermentation. Altogether, these results confirmed that winemaking‐related factors (i.e., vintage, Vitis species, and alcoholic fermentation) do not impact the genetic diversity of C. zemplinina and that only geographic localization significantly shapes this yeast species.
The Efficacy and Safety of High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Therapy for Benign Thyroid Nodules—A Single Center Experience from Singapore
Authors: Prakash Prajwala S. , Oh Han Boon , Tan Wee Boon , Parameswaran Rajeev , Ngiam Kee Yuan
Published: March 2019

Background

High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a recent noninvasive technique of treating thyroid nodules. Our study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of HIFU in treating benign thyroid nodules.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent HIFU of benign thyroid nodules at our institution from July 2017–2018. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon. Patients were evaluated immediately post‐procedure, and at subsequent intervals of 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary endpoint was thyroid nodule volume reduction at 6 months posttreatment. Secondary endpoints were post‐procedure local complications.

Results

Ten patients with 13 thyroid nodules were included. The median follow‐up period was 426 days (range 238–573). Mean maximum diameter reduced from 2.6 cm (±0.8) pretreatment to 1.4 cm (±0.7, P < 0.05) 6 months posttreatment. Mean nodule volume reduced from 5.2 cm3 (±4.2) pretreatment to 1.5 cm3 (±1.3, P = 0.01) 6 months posttreatment. Mean volume reduction ratio (VRR) at 6 months posttreatment was 63.2% (±22.5, P < 0.05), with volume reduction of ≥50% in 10 of 13 (76.9%) nodules. Two nodules (15.4%) showed size increases from 4 months posttreatment. No patients experienced local skin burns or hematomas. Mean pain scores were 1.5 (±1.2) immediate post‐procedure, 0.8 (±1.5) at 1 week, and 0.6 (±1.2) at 1 month post‐procedure, respectively, with no reports of pain beyond 1 month. Only two (20.0%) patients had early, temporary posttreatment voice hoarseness.

Conclusion

Our study shows HIFU ablation to be efficacious and safe—with significant thyroid nodule volume reductions, and no significant or prolonged local complications.
Short-term risk factors for a second hip fracture in a UK population
Authors: Sheikh Hassaan Q. , Hossain Fahad S. , Khan Sayeed , Usman Mohammad , Kapoor Harish , Aqil Adeel
Published: March 2019

Introduction

A hip fracture carries significant morbidity and mortality—a second fracture of the contralateral hip carries even higher complications. Most second hip fractures occur within 48 months of the first. The aim of this study was to comprehensively analyse all identifiable variables that may increase the risk of a contralateral hip fracture within this time period.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 1242 consecutive patients with hip fractures presenting to our institution. All patient-related, surgery-related and inpatient variables were collected from the index admission. We then identified patients with a subsequent contralateral hip fracture in the following 2 years. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with a second fracture.

Results

A total of 66 patients (5.3%) had a contralateral hip fracture in the 2 years following initial hip fracture. Mean age at first presentation was 81 years, and mean time to second fracture was 305 days. Following multivariate analysis, the patients at highest risk of a second fracture were those with dementia, acute inpatient chest infection, urinary tract infection and multiple comorbidities as measured by the Charlson score. Discharge destination after initial fracture was not associated with the risk of a second fracture.

Conclusions

We have identified a number of discrete risk factors that are associated with a short- to medium-term risk of contralateral hip fracture that may be useful in screening for patients at risk and provide them with focused medical rehabilitation.