bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasensitive Assay for Hepatitis B Core‐Related Antigen Predicts Hepatocellular Carcinoma Incidences During Entecavir
Authors: Hosaka Tetsuya , Suzuki Fumitaka , Kobayashi Mariko , Fujiyama Shunichiro , Kawamura Yusuke , Sezaki Hitomi , Akuta Norio , Kobayashi Masahiro , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Saitoh Satoshi , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: September 2021

Serum hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg) and surface antigen (HBsAg) are surrogate markers of intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA. The measurement range of the current HBcrAg assay is relatively narrow. Thus, we examined the potential of HBcrAg and HBsAg measured by ultrasensitive assays for predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with entecavir (ETV). We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 180 patients who received ETV for >1 year. All patients had hepatitis B e‐antigen negativity at baseline. Serum HBcrAg and HBsAg levels at baseline and year 1 were measured in all patients by ultrasensitive assays using immunoassay for total antigen including complex by pretreatment (iTACT) technology. During the median follow‐up of 11.0 years, 22 patients developed HCC (11.8/1,000 person‐years). Baseline HBsAg levels were not associated with HCC development during ETV treatment. However, high HBcrAg levels at baseline and at year 1 were significantly associated with HCC development (log‐rank test; P < 0.001). In 110 patients (61.1%) with ≥4.0 log U/mL at baseline (high HBcrAg cohort), HBcrAg declined to ≤2.9 log U/mL at year 1 in 25 patients (22.7%). The adjusted hazard ratio for HCC incidence was significantly lower in patients with HBcrAg ≤2.9 log U/mL at year 1 than in those in the high HBcrAg cohort. Conclusion: Measurement of HBcrAg by ultrasensitive assay has better potential for predicting HCC during antiviral treatment than the current HBcrAg assay.
Comparison of naltrexone implant and oral buprenorphine‐naloxone in the treatment of opiate use disorder
Authors: Erdoğan Ali , Topcuoğlu Müge , Coşkun Mustafa Nogay , Cinemre Buket , Kulaksızoğlu Burak , Kuloğlu Mehmet Murat
Published: September 2021

Objective

We aimed to compare the effectiveness of extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) implant and sublingual buprenorphine‐naloxone (BUP‐NX) in relapse prevention in opiate use disorder (OUD).

Methods

Medical records of 400 patients who were treated for OUD between 2016 and 2020 were retrospectively evaluated concerning sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and abstinence duration with either BUP‐NX (192 patients) or XR‐NTX (208 patients) as maintenance treatments.

Results

The median age of patients using BUP‐NX was 25.00, and the median age of patients using XR‐NTX was 25.50 (p = .785). The ratio of female patients in the BUP‐NX group and the XR‐NTX group was 7.3% (n = 14) and 6.7% (n = 14), respectively. A significantly higher abstinence time was observed in the BUP‐NX group (median = 4 months) than in the XR‐NTX group (median = 3 months) (p = .015). Liver function tests were within the normal ranges at the three time points, which were just before the beginning and in the first and third months of treatment.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that BUP‐NX might be more effective than XR‐NTX in preventing relapse in OUD and both drugs are safe for the liver. Prospective randomized studies are needed to replicate our results.
The effect of low serum calcium level on the severity and mortality of Covid patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alemzadeh Effat , Alemzadeh Esmat , Ziaee Masood , Abedi Ali , Salehiniya Hamid
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Imbalances of various electrolytes, including calcium, are associated with the prognosis of Covid disease. This study investigated the relationship between serum calcium and clinical outcomes in patients with COVID‐19.

Method

This study is a systematic review and meta‐analysis by searching PubMed, Scopus, web of sciences until August 2021 using the keywords COVID‐19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), COVID, coronavirus disease, SARS‐COV‐infection. 2, SARS‐COV‐2, COVID19, calcium, calcium isotopes, calcium radioisotopes, hypercalcemia, and hypocalcemia were performed. Heterogeneity of studies was investigated using I2 index, data were analyzed using meta‐analysis (random effects model) with Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis Software software.

Results

Finally, 25 articles were included in the study. Clinical data from 12 articles showed that 59% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49–0.68) of people with COVID‐19 have hypocalcemia. The results of meta‐analysis showed that hypocalcemia was significantly associated with severity of the disease (p = .002), mortality in patients with COVID‐19 (odds ratio [OR] = 6.99, 95% CI: 2.71–17.99), number of hospitalization days (p < .001) and admission to the intensive care unit (OR = 5.09, 95% CI: 2.14–12.10). The results also showed that there is a direct relationship between low serum calcium levels with increasing D‐dimer levels (p = .02) and decreasing lymphocyte counts (p = .007).

Conclusion

Based on the results of meta‐analysis in people with lower calcium, mortality and complications are higher, therefore, serum calcium is a prognostic factor in determining the severity of the disease. Consequently, it is suggested that serum calcium levels should be considered in initial assessments.
Treatment for vaginal agenesis: A prospective and comparative study between vaginal dilation and surgical neovaginoplasty
Authors: Apfel Vanessa R. , Takano Claudia C. , Marquini Gisele V. , de Jarmy di Bella Zsuzsanna I. K. , Girão Manoel J. B. C. , Sartori Marair G. F.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To compare, in terms of anatomical, functional, and sexual aspects, two types of treatment for women with vaginal agenesis: progressive dilation or surgical neovaginoplasty.

Methods

Women with vaginal agenesis underwent either dilation treatment using the Frank method or surgical treatment using the modified Abbé‐McIndoe technique with oxidized cellulose. Patients were evaluated 3–6 months after treatment for a follow‐up including medical history, physical examination, general satisfaction, clinical aspect of the vagina, Female Sexual Function Index, and three‐dimensional pelvic floor ultrasound.

Results

In total, 20 women with vaginal agenesis were included in the present study; nine in the dilation group and 11 in the surgical group. A comparison between the groups (vaginal dilation and surgical neovaginoplasty) showed efficacy in neovagina formation after both treatments, with a statistically significant difference between the pre‐ and post‐treatment periods (P value pre‐ × post‐dilation group <0.0001 and P value pre‐ × post‐surgical group <0.0001). There were no statistical differences in total vaginal length measurements (P value post‐dilation × post‐surgical = 0.09) or Female Sexual Function Index scores (P = 0.72) after both treatments.

Conclusion

Both treatments had satisfactory efficacy and positive outcomes for patients with vaginal agenesis concerning anatomical, functional, and sexual aspects, with minimum complications in the surgical group. Dilation treatment can remain the first‐line therapy.
Inside Front Cover
Authors: Tuniyazi Abudusalamu , Mu Tingkui , Jiang Xiaosa , Han Feng , Li Haoyang , Li Qiuxia , Gong Hang , Wang Wenjing , Qin Bin
Published: September 2021

A snapshot polarized light scattering spectroscopy (snapshot PLSS) system with a single optical path was developed to detect early gastric cancer. The snapshot PLSS mechanism avoids the use of a rotatable polarizer or two orthogonal polarizers in the building of PLSS system. Ex‐vivo gastric cancer samples are used to verify the proposed method and system. The proposed snapshot technique provides the possibility for the development of a real‐time PLSS endoscopy imaging system on early cancer detection.

Further details can be found in the article by Abudusalamu Tuniyazi, Tingkui Mu, Xiaosa Jiang, Feng Han, Haoyang Li, Qiuxia Li, Hang Gong, Wenjing Wang, and Bin Qin (e202100140).

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Prognostic significance of surgery‐induced sarcopenia in the survival of gastric cancer patients: a sex‐specific analysis
Authors: Lee Ja Kyung , Park Young Suk , Lee Kanghaeng , Youn Sang Il , Won Yongjoon , Min Sa‐Hong , Ahn Sang‐Hoon , Park Do Joong , Kim Hyung‐Ho
Published: September 2021

Background

Preoperative sarcopenia is associated with a poor long‐term prognosis in patients with gastric cancer (GC). Most GC patients rapidly lose muscle mass after gastrectomy. This retrospective cohort study analysed the effect of postoperative muscle loss and surgery‐induced sarcopenia on the long‐term outcomes of patients with GC.

Methods

Preoperative and postoperative 1 year abdominal computed tomography scans were available for 1801 GC patients who underwent curative gastrectomy between January 2009 and December 2013 at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. The patients were categorized into normal, presarcopenia, and sarcopenia groups according to the skeletal muscle index (SMI) measured on computed tomography scans. Patients who were not sarcopenic prior to gastrectomy but became sarcopenic after surgery were defined as the surgery‐induced sarcopenia group.

Results

There were 1227 men and 574 women included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 59.5 ± 12.3 years. Multivariable Cox‐regression analyses showed that preoperative SMI was not associated with overall survival (OS). However, postoperative sarcopenia was associated with significantly worse OS only in men [hazard ratio (HR), 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08–2.85]. SMI loss was an independent risk factor for OS in the entire cohort and in men (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00–1.02, for the entire cohort; HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.04, for men). The surgery‐induced sarcopenia group was associated with significantly higher mortality (HR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.16–2.90, for the cohort; HR, 2.73; 95% CI, 1.54–4.82, for men), although SMI loss and surgery‐induced sarcopenia were not risk factors in women. Similar results were obtained for relapse‐free survival.

Conclusions

Postoperative muscle mass loss and surgery‐induced sarcopenia are prognostic factors for survival in patients with GC. Impact of postoperative muscle mass loss and surgery‐induced sarcopenia on survival outcomes is dependent on the sex.
Variation of the serum N‐glycosylation during the pregnancy of a MPI‐CDG patient
Authors: Lebredonchel Elodie , Duvet Sandrine , Douillard Claire , Foulquier François , Klein André
Published: September 2021

For the first time the glycosylation of a patient with a MPI‐CDG during pregnancy is monitored. MPI‐CDG, is characterised by a deficiency in mannose‐6‐phosphate isomerase (MPI) leading to a reduced pool of glycosylation precursors, impairing the biosynthesis of N‐glycans leading to N‐glycosylation defects. The abnormal N‐glycosylation profile with an elevation of asialotransferrin and disialotransferrin, typical of CDG type I, is assessable by transferrin isoelectrofocusing. Oral D‐mannose supplementation for MPI‐CDG patients has been widely used and improves clinical manifestations. The glycosylation of a MPI‐CDG patient during pregnancy without mannose supplementation was studied using carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) assay, transferrin isoelectrofocusing (IEF) and mass spectrometry of total serum N‐glycans. A general improvement of the glycosylation profile of the patient due to a better transfer of the glycan precursors as well as an increase of the triantennary glycans (and sialylation) was observed. In conclusion, in the absence of mannose supplementation, the previously observed glycosylation abnormality of the MPI‐CDG patient was corrected. The molecular mechanism underlying this N‐glycosylation rescue during MPI‐CDG pregnancy further needs to be investigated.
Novel Biobased Polyamide Thermoplastic Elastomer with Medium Hardness
Authors: Nurhamiyah Yeyen , Irvine Gavin , Themistou Efrosyni , Chen Biqiong
Published: September 2021

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are useful in various engineering and healthcare applications. A new fully biobased polyamide TPE (PA36,9) with medium hardness is reported. The elastomer is synthesized using a fatty dimer amine and azelaic acid, via one‐pot melt condensation polymerization. The resulting elastomer shows a melting temperature of 83.6 °C, a medium hardness (Shore A/Shore D = 90/35), a large elongation at break (1220%), good resilience, and impact resistance, while maintaining high tensile strength (31.8 MPa), low density (0.93 g cm−3), and hydrophobicity. The chemical structure of the repeating unit, together with the molecular weight and molecular weight distribution, of the polymer governs the properties of the resulting polyamide, which differ from those of conventional aliphatic polyamides. This biobased polyamide elastomer is a promising candidate to substitute some fossil fuel‐based medium‐hardness TPEs for applications, such as insulation, sealing, automotives, and construction.
Balancing Degradability and Physical Properties of Amorphous Poly(d,l‐lactide) by Making Blends
Authors: Kumar Anil , Weig Alfons R. , Agarwal Seema
Published: September 2021

The problem in using the existing biodegradable polymers for day‐to‐day commodity and specialty applications (non‐physiological) is the trade‐off between the degradability and physical properties of polymers. Therefore, the authors study the properties of polyester films made by solution blending of amorphous poly(d,l‐lactide) and semi‐crystalline poly(l,l‐lactide) (PLLA) with an aim to achieve a good balance of mechanical properties and degradability under environmental conditions. The degradation test using proteinase K enzyme shows faster degradation of blends in comparison to homopolymers by weight loss. Faster fragmentation of blends and fragments of lower masses in comparison to PLLA is also seen in immature compost with bulk degradation as the main mechanism of degradation. A detailed investigation shows increased crystallinity and the formation of crystalline stereo‐complex in fragmented samples that may limit degradation after a stage causing microplastics persisting for a longer period. Therefore, further degradation studies in compost for at least 8–10 weeks are recommended. Other environmental sinks, such as activated sludge water, fresh, and seawater, provide either extremely slow or no degradation excluding the use of such blends for applications intended for these sinks. In future, smart solutions are required to enhance the degradation of polylactide in different environmental sinks.
A Cross‐Sectional Comprehensive Assessment of the Profile and Burden of Non‐motor Symptoms in Relation to Motor Phenotype in the Nigeria Parkinson Disease Registry Cohort
Authors: Ojo Oluwadamilola O. , Wahab Kolawole W. , Bello Abiodun H. , Abubakar Sani A. , Ekeh Bertha C. , Otubogun Folajimi M. , Iwuozo Emmanuel U. , Farombi Temitope H. , Adeniji Olaleye , Ojini Francis I. , Imarhiagbe Frank A. , Nyandaiti Yakub , Komolafe Morenikeji A. , Fawale Michael B. , Onwuegbuzie Gerald A. , Zubair Yusuf , Williams Uduak E. , Taiwo Funlola T. , Oyakhire Shyngle I. , Oshinaike Olajumoke O. , Osemwegie Nosakhare , Osaigbovo Godwin O. , Odiase Francis E. , Odeniyi Olanike A. , Obiabo Yahaya O. , Obehighe Emmanuel E. , Nwazor Ernest O. , Nwani Paul O. , Kehinde Abiodun J. , Erameh Cyril O. , Ekenze Oluchi S. , Dike Franklin O. , Balarabe Salisu A. , Arigbodi Ohwotemu , Arabambi Babawale , Ani‐Osheku Ifeyinwa , Ali Mohammed W. , Akpekpe John E. , Akinyemi Rufus O. , Agulanna Uchechi , Agu Christian E. , Agabi Osigwe P. , Ademiluyi Babatunde A. , Adebowale Akintunde A. , Achoru Charles O. , Abiodun Oladunni V. , Rizig Mie , Okubadejo Njideka U.
Published: September 2021

Background

Data on non‐motor symptoms (NMS) in black Africans with Parkinson's disease (PD) are sparse.

Objective

To describe the profile of NMS in the Nigeria PD Registry (NPDR) cohort and explore the relationship between NMS and PD motor phenotype.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of the frequency and burden of NMS, based on the non‐motor symptoms scale (NMSS) and the Chaudhuri method respectively in our cohort. Baseline demographics, disease characteristics (Hoehn and Yahr stage, MDS‐UPDRS total score and Part III motor score), motor phenotype (based on Stebbin et al's algorithm), and levodopa equivalent daily dose (LEDD) were documented.

Results

Data are presented for 825 PD whose mean age at study was 63.7 ± 10.1 years, female sex—221 [26.8%] while median PD duration was 36 months. PD phenotypes included tremor‐dominant 466 (56.5%), postural instability and gait disorder (PIGD) 259 (31.4%), and indeterminate 100 (12.1%). 82.6% were on treatment (median LEDD of 500 mg/24 hours). 804 (97.5%) endorsed at least 1 NMS. The median NMSS score was 26.0 while subscores for urinary and sexual function domains were significantly higher in males (P < 0.05). PIGD‐PD had more frequent NMS and higher frequency of severe/very severe NMSS burden (P = 0.000 for both). Nocturia and fatigue were the most prevalent NMS overall and across motor subtypes. PIGD phenotype and total UPDRS scores were the independent determinants of NMSS scores (P = 0.000).

Conclusion

The profile and burden of NMS, and association with motor subtype in our black African cohort is largely similar to descriptions from other populations.
Groups unite on collaborative care model for BH patients in PC settings
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2021

In a show of support for investments in collaborative care, more than a dozen organizations have united behind new bipartisan legislation aimed at a care delivery model that integrates behavioral health care within the primary care setting for treating mental health and substance use disorders that require regular follow‐up, such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse.
Interim education settlement agreement reached with Oregon
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2021

The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law and fellow advocates for children with disabilities have reached an interim settlement agreement as part of a class action lawsuit with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), a news release announced Sept. 14. The agreement for J.N. et al. v. Oregon Department of Education et al. outlines the parties' commitment to ensuring that Oregon students with disabilities who have been placed on shortened school days because of their behavior receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
Mathematical modeling of steady MHD Casson fluid flow with stretching porous walls in existence of radiation, chemical reaction, and thermal diffusion effect
Authors: Jangid Sanju , Mehta Ruchika , Mehta Tripti , Sushila
Published: September 2021

This expression presents the steady (independent of time) MagnetoHydroDynamics (MHD) Casson fluid (non‐Newtonian shear‐thinning) flow with thermal radiative impression between two equivalent plates within stretched porous walls. The mass and heat transfer experimentation founded in the company of buoyancy force, viscous dissipative impact, and thermo diffusion impact on squeezing flow are explained along with thermal radiative impression also with heat source/sink outcomes. The governing PDEs (partial differential equations) modified into ODEs (ordinary differential equations) via appropriate similarity modification. The ODEs are extricated by Runge–Kutta's fourth‐order scheme and shooting performance. The outcomes of several parameters (nondimensional numbers) on velocity, temperature, and concentration are evaluated with the service of diagrams and tables. The result displays that the fluid velocity growths with increment of Grashof number. The effect of Reynolds number, Hartman number (magnetic number), non‐Newtonian Casson fluid parameter, and so forth are also interpreted for velocity profile, mass transfer, and heat transfer. In the last, the skin friction coefficient, Sherwood number (mass transfer coefficient), and Nusselt numbers (heat transfer coefficient) are also reputed. Also, validation of the current paper is given in Table 2.
Sleep medication and melatonin use among Norwegian nurses – A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Forthun Ingeborg , Waage Siri , Pallesen Ståle , Moen Bente Elisabeth , Bjorvatn Bjørn
Published: September 2021

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of sleep medication and melatonin use among nurses and to assess if factors related to work, sleep or mental health, were associated with such use.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A questionnaire survey including 2,798 Norwegian nurses. Associations were estimated using a modified Poisson regression model.

Results

In total, 7.5%, 4.6% and 2.0% of the nurses included in the present study reported prescribed sleep medication, over‐the‐counter sleep medication or melatonin use in the last year, respectively. Short sleep duration, sleep problems and psychological conditions were strongly associated with both prescribed and over‐the‐counter sleep medication use. Nurses who worked more than 60 night shifts in the last year were at increased risk of sleep medication use.
Emulsion iodine transfer polymerization of nearly uniform submicrometer‐sized polystyrene particles
Authors: Chaiyasat Amorn , Sue‐eng Sawitree , Billon Laurent , Okubo Masayoshi , Chaiyasat Preeyaporn
Published: September 2021

Emulsifier‐free emulsion iodine transfer polymerization (emulsion ITP) of styrene was carried out using unpurified and purified poly(methacrylic acid)–iodine (PMAA‐I). PMAA‐I was previously synthesized by solution ITP in dioxane. The solution ITP of methacrylic acid was completed at 40 °C for 24 h. Unexpectedly, 64% of added CHI3 remained in dioxane even after the polymerization. The emulsion ITP was carried out at pH ∼ 9 with unpurified or purified PMAA‐I. The number‐average diameter (dn) of the polymer particles obtained using purified PMAA‐I (148 nm at 93% conversion) was much smaller than that using unpurified PMAA‐I (710 nm at 68% conversion). In both cases, in the early stage of the polymerization, polystyrene (PS) particles stabilized by some PMAA‐b‐PS copolymer chains were formed. This indicates that PMAA‐I worked not only as a macro chain transfer agent but also as a colloidal stabilizer. In the unpurified system, the remaining CHI3 also operated as a chain transfer agent. It resulted in PS‐I homopolymers having controlled molecular weight in the PS particles. On the other hand, many high molecular weight PS homopolymers were formed in the purified system by emulsion conventional radical polymerization in the PS particles. To depress emulsion conventional radical polymerization, the CHI3 was post‐added after 90 min. Nearly uniform submicrometer‐sized (82 nm) PS particles with narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn = 1.24) were achieved. These polymerization behaviors were reasonably explained from the results obtained by gel permeation chromatography and diffusion ordered spectroscopy 1NMR. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
A rare case of thymoma with CA 19‐9 production
Authors: Ohashi Takuya , Kawago Mitsumasa , Hirai Yoshimitsu , Kiyoi Megumi , Miyasaka Miwako , Yata Yumi , Kawaji Mari , Fusamoto Aya , Iguchi Hideto , Nakanishi Hitomi , Nishimura Yoshiharu
Published: September 2021

A 72‐year‐old man was diagnosed as having myasthenia gravis (MG). He underwent computed tomography which revealed an anterior mediastinal tumour. Laboratory examination revealed elevated levels (106.3 U/ml) of carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19‐9 in serum. However, no malignant disease was detected on fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography. A diagnosis of thymoma associated with MG was considered and an extended thymectomy was performed. Histopathologically, thymoma was categorized as stage I based on the Masaoka classification, and as type AB according to the World Health Organization classification. Immunohistochemistry was positive for CA 19‐9. The serum levels returned to the normal range post‐operatively (16.7 U/ml). Herein, we report an extremely rare case of thymoma with raised levels of CA 19‐9.
Periodicity and change: Talking about time inside the planetarium dome
Authors: Marques Joana B. V. , Carlin Andrew P. , Gomes Miguel , Moutinho Ricardo
Published: September 2021

Time is a central concept for astronomy, yet how it is communicated in educational contexts has received insufficient attention in the literature. This study explores how time‐related concepts are communicated in the planetarium, by analyzing 34 different planetarium sessions held in a diversity of Portuguese institutions. Sessions were video and audio recorded. From 26 hrs of recordings, 163 excerpts related to time were identified. Studying instances of actual events with a naturalistic approach informed by ethnomethodology allowed for the identification of ordinary methods and strategies that are used by guides to teach time‐related concepts. This study details these methods and strategies, and how guides take advantage of the characteristics of the planetarium. Our analysis reveals that change over time and periodicity are the most recurrent time‐related themes in planetarium sessions. The majority of the excerpts relate to the rotation and revolution of the Earth, but time‐related aspects of the revolution of other celestial bodies are also present in the data. We found that guides use strategies grounded both in geocentric and allocentric (view from space) perspectives when communicating about time, and we highlight how an allocentric perspective can be demonstrated without sophisticated, immersive simulations. Moreover, we found that strategies bringing time to the personal level, for instance by using birthdays and the age of members of the public as baseline measures, and other engagement techniques, are widely used. Findings have important implications for research and communication about time in practice.
Matching on poset‐based average rank for multiple treatments to compare many unbalanced groups
Authors: Silan Margherita , Boccuzzo Giovanna , Arpino Bruno
Published: September 2021

In this article, we propose an original matching procedure for multiple treatment frameworks based on partially ordered set theory (poset). In our proposal, called matching on poset‐based average rank for multiple treatments (MARMoT), poset theory is used to summarize individuals' confounders and the relative average rank is used to balance confounders and match individuals in different treatment groups. This approach proves to be particularly useful for balancing confounders when the number of treatments considered is high. We apply our approach to the estimation of neighborhood effect on the fractures among older people in Turin (a city in northern Italy).
Advantage of Using NaH2PO2 over Alkali Metal Formates as a Hydrogen Source for Pd‐gC3N4 Catalyzed Hydro‐Dehalogenation of Aryl Halides
Authors: Chakraborty Sourav , Bahuguna Ashish , Sasson Yoel
Published: September 2021

Halogenated and polyhalogenated aromatic compounds are known for their toxicity and effect on human health and the environment. These aromatic hydrocarbons have been widely used in pesticides, flame retardants, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial chemicals. The substitution of halogen atoms of aromatic halides by hydrogen atoms in the presence of a metal catalyst is an important organic transformation and is known as a catalytic hydro‐dehalogenation reaction. It is an important technique used for the treatment of halogenated industrial waste. Herein, we investigated the comparative hydro‐dehalogenation of aryl halides in the presence of Pd‐gC3N4 catalyst using various hydrogen transfer sources in an eco‐friendly manner. We also investigated the advantage of using sodium hypophosphite (NaH2PO2) as a hydrogen source for hydro‐dehalogenation in comparison to alkali metal formates. For hydro‐dehalogenation of 1 mmol of aryl halide, 2 equivalents of NaH2PO2 are used while 4 equivalents of KHCO2 are required in the presence of 3.8 wt % of Pd metal catalyst. The Pd‐GCN catalyst was characterized by various microscopic and spectral techniques such as PXRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, XPS, and TGA, etc. A gram scale reaction was performed to analyze the industrial potential of the proposed catalytic system. Finally, the recyclability of Pd‐GCN was found excellent and the catalyst could run multiple cycles with sustained activity.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial, Antiproliferative Evaluation of Novel Quinolone and Conazole Analogues via Conventional and Microwave Techniques
Authors: Ceylan Şule , Cebeci Yıldız Uygun , Karaoğlu Şengül Alpay , Altun Muhammed
Published: September 2021

1,2,4‐Triazole‐3‐one (3), acquired from cinnamaldehyde was converted to the corresponding carbox(thio)amides via several steps (6 a–c). Their reaction with sodium hydroxide gave the 1,2,4‐triazole derivatives (7 a–c). Compound 3 treatment with 2‐bromo‐1‐(4‐chlorophenyl) ethanone or 2‐chloro‐1‐(2,4‐dichlorophenyl)ethanone afforded the compounds 8 a,b and by reducing these compounds reduction products were obtained (9 a,b). The synthesis of (10 a–e) was carried out by the reaction compounds 9 a,b with different benzyl chlorides. Then oxadiazole derivative (12) was obtained by ring closure from hydrazide compound 5. Subsequently compounds 3, 7 a–c, and 12 were treated with various amines in the presence of formaldehyde to yield Mannich bases (11 a–e, 14 a–e, 13 a,b). Microwave‐assisted and conventional techniques were utilized for the syntheses. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were illuminated by spectroscopic methods. Their antimicrobial (MIC method), and anticancer activities (Abay's method) were examined. Results showed that most of the compounds exhibited good antimicrobial activities. Especially compounds 14 a–e which is a mannich base showed very good antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis compared with Streptomycin standard drug. Also compounds 8 a and 9 b have been found to have strong antiproliferative effects on the HeLa cervical cancer cells and also these compounds did not have a cytotoxic effects on a normal cells.
Temperature Dependence of the Rayleigh Ratio for Toluene: Thermoresponsive Polymers Characterization
Authors: Sivokhin Alexey Р. , Kazantsev Oleg A.
Published: September 2021

Benzene and toluene are commonly used reference substances for static light scattering (SLS) measurements. However, due to the appearance and wide availability of solid‐state lasers with various wavelengths, there is a need for data on the Rayleigh ratios for references at various wavelengths. Thermoresponsive polymers, which are widely researched now, can have lower critical solution temperature (LCST) values very close to the human body temperature (30–36 °C). Such polymers can be used to develop efficient means for targeted drug delivery. In this paper, we report how to accurately determine the absolute molecular weights of thermoresponsive polymers by the SLS method. This is especially important when the LCST value of a polymer is close to the room temperature (at which SLS measurements are usually taken), which can lead to overestimated results due to the aggregation of macromolecules. So, it is necessary to carefully select the measurement temperature and, accordingly, data are needed on the temperature dependence of the Rayleigh ratios for a reference sample. The Rayleigh ratios and depolarization factors, ρu and ρv, were first determined for toluene within a wide temperature range (10–50 °C). The temperature dependencies of these parameters were shown to be linear in the whole range investigated. Temperature coefficients for the calculation of the Rayleigh ratios at different scattering geometries were obtained. The particular importance of choosing the optimal measurement temperature when determining the molecular weights of thermoresponsive polymers with low values of LCST using the static light scattering method was demonstrated.
CoSnO3 Nanocubes Wrapped by Carbon Nanofibers for Improving Lithium‐Sulfur Battery Performances
Authors: Shi Jing , Zhang Shuya , Wang Jing , Bian Zhengxu , Duan Mengting , Guo Xingmei , Liu Yuanjun , Zhang Junhao , Kong Qinghong
Published: September 2021

To solve the problem of low conductivity of sulfur and “shuttle effect” of lithium polysulfides, CoSnO3 nanocubes wrapped by carbon nanofibers (CoSnO3@CNFs) are synthesized by co‐precipitation, electrospinning and calcination techniques. CoSnO3 provides plentiful polar active sites, which restrains the dissolution of polysulfides with chemical interaction. Carbon nanofibers not only provide more ion transport channels, but also increase physical adsorption, provide active sites, and improve the conductivity of the electrode material. As a result, CoSnO3@CNFs can carry about 60 % sulfur as guest. Evaluated as cathode material for lithium‐sulfur batteries, CoSnO3@CNFs/S displayed an initial discharge capacity of 554.9 mA h g−1 at 0.2 C, and retained 300.0 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles. The simple synthesis method, high sulfur loading capacity and long cycle life make CoSnO3@CNFs extremely attractive for practical applications.
Controlled Rolling of X80 Pipeline Steel in the Austenite Recrystallization Temperature Region and Its Effect on the Microstructure and Mechanical properties
Authors: Zhou Xiaoguang , Li Hua , Chen Qiyuan , Liu Zhenyu
Published: September 2021

In recent years, the improvement in the strength and toughness of X80 pipeline steel by only controlled rolling in the nonrecrystallization temperature region has been limited, it is difficult to meet higher application demands. Therefore, to further improve the effect of controlled rolling on the strength and toughness, the controlled rolling of X80 pipeline steel in the austenite recrystallization temperature region and its effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties after final rolling in the nonrecrystalization temperature region are investigated by thermal simulation experiments and hot‐rolling experiments. An increase in the last‐pass rough‐rolling deformation in the austenite recrystallization temperature region refines the austenite grain size after rough rolling and finish rolling, making the austenite grain size smaller and more uniform and improving the strength and low‐temperature impact toughness. The mechanism of austenite evolution based on the last‐pass deformation in the austenite recrystallization temperature region is revealed. The finer and more uniform austenite grain size accelerates the refinement of the granular bainite microstructure at room temperature. The main strengthening mechanisms are dislocation strengthening and grain refinement strengthening. The increase in toughness is due to the presence of a high percentage of high‐angle grain boundaries, which significantly impede crack propagation.
Time‐dependent cyclic behavior of reinforced concrete bridge columns under chlorides‐induced corrosion and rebars buckling
Authors: Pelle Angelo , Briseghella Bruno , Bergami Alessandro Vittorio , Fiorentino Gabriele , Giaccu Gian Felice , Lavorato Davide , Quaranta Giuseppe , Rasulo Alessandro , Nuti Camillo
Published: September 2021

This study presents the results of a refined numerical investigation meant at understanding the time‐dependent cyclic behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) bridge columns under chlorides‐induced corrosion. The chloride ingress in the cross‐section of the bridge column is simulated, taking into account the effects of temperature, humidity, aging, and corrosion‐induced cover cracking. Once the partial differential equations governing such multiphysics problem are solved through the finite‐element method, the loss of reinforcement steel bars cross‐section is calculated based on the estimated corrosion current density. The nonlinear cyclic response of the RC bridge column under corrosion is, thus, determined by discretizing its cross‐sections into several unidirectional fibers. In particular, the nonlinear modeling of the corroded longitudinal rebars exploits a novel proposal for the estimation of the ultimate strain in tension and also accounts for buckling under compression. A parametric numerical study is finally conducted for a real case study to unfold the role of corrosion pattern and buckling mode of the longitudinal rebars on the time variation of capacity and ductility of RC bridge columns.
Public health issues with Candida auris in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Janniger Edmund J. , Kapila Rajendra
Published: September 2021

The ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has overwhelmed a number of medical facilities as well as a few entire health‐care systems. A novel issue co‐incident with the expeditious deployment of specialty care units for COVID‐19 inpatients is the worldwide epidemic of Candida auris infections. Since its first identification and classification in Japan in 2009, it has spread globally. This threat was predicted as C. auris has a high mortality rate, cryptic fomite spread, frequent misidentification since conventional methods do not detect it, and multidrug‐resistance. Since the April 2020 warning at the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States, C. auris has been delineated as an increasingly consequential source of significant nosocomial infections, emphasizing the added hazard of C. auris to COVID‐19 inpatients, particularly those in intensive care units.
Einfluss von Komplikationen und Komorbiditäten auf Liegedauer und Kosten bei der operativen Behandlung der proximalen Humerusfraktur
Authors: Stolberg-Stolberg Josef , Köppe Jeanette , Rischen Robert , Freistühler Moritz , Faldum Andreas , Katthagen J. Christoph , Raschke Michael J.
Published: September 2021

Nach proximaler Humerusfraktur beim alten Patienten stellen die winkelstabile Plattenosteosynthese und die inverse Schulterendoprothese zwei konkurrierende Operationsverfahren dar. Auch wenn erste klinische Studien auf eine funktionelle Überlegenheit der inversen Schulterendoprothese hindeuten, fehlt ein gesundheitsökonomischer Vergleich in der Literatur. Krankenkassendaten von 55.070 Patienten ab einem Alter von 65 Jahren, welche nach proximaler Humerusfraktur mittels inverser Schulterendoprothese oder winkelstabiler Plattenosteosynthese versorgt worden sind, wurden auf Kosten und Liegedauer untersucht. Multivariable lineare Regressionsmodelle wurden zur Beurteilung von Komplikationen und Komorbiditäten gerechnet. Die Liegedauer nach inverser Schulterendoprothese war mit 20,0 (±13,5) Tagen statistisch auffällig länger als nach winkelstabiler Plattenosteosynthese mit 14,6 (±11,4) Tagen (p < 0,001). Die Kosten pro Fall unterschieden sich mit 11.165,70 (±5884,36) EUR für die inverser Prothese und 7030,11 (±5532,02) EUR für die Plattenosteosynthese deutlich (p < 0,001). Statistisch auffällige Kostensteigerungen durch Komplikationen und Komorbiditäten unterstreichen den Bedarf an spezialisierten geriatrischen Traumazentren.
Das novellierte Klimaschutzgesetz
Authors: Frenz Walter
Published: September 2021

So sensationell wie der BVerfG-Klimabeschluss war, so rasch reagierte der Gesetzgeber mit der KSG-Novelle,
die am 24.6.2021 im Bundestag und am 25.6.2021 im Bundesrat verabschiedet wurde. Wurde damit dem BVerfG
in vollem Umfang entsprochen?
Which Concept of Concept for Conceptual Engineering?
Authors: Isaac Manuel Gustavo
Published: September 2021

Conceptual engineering is the method for assessing and improving our concepts. However, little has been written about how best to conceive of concepts for the purposes of conceptual engineering. In this paper, I aim to fill this foundational gap, proceeding in three main steps: First, I propose a methodological framework for evaluating the conduciveness of a given concept of concept for conceptual engineering. Then, I develop a typology that contrasts two competing concepts of concept that can be used in conceptual engineering—namely, the philosophical and psychological ones. Finally, I evaluate these two concepts of concept using the proposed methodological framework and I show that, when it comes to making conceptual engineering an actionable method, the psychological concept of concept outclasses its philosophical counterpart on all counts. This provides a baseline from which the concept of concept can be further improved for the purposes of conceptual engineering.
Esteem, Social Norms and Status Inequality
Authors: Porro Costanza
Published: September 2021

When we appraise others as talented or virtuous, we esteem them: we register admiration of their traits and virtues. It is generally believed that, unless they involve a violation of respect, distributions of esteem are not a concern from the point of view of justice. In this paper, I want to dispute this commonly-held view. I will argue that attributions of esteem can become problematic when a particular trait becomes such a uniquely relevant source of social esteem in a community that its absence becomes a reason to regard others as less than full members of the community. For instance, in contemporary capitalist societies those perceived as lacking certain socially valued traits and unable or unwilling to make certain kinds of contribution to the community, such as those who are unemployed or have committed criminal offences, are widely disesteemed and also regarded as inferior qua members of the community by others. From the fact that they fail to possess particular qualities a broader negative judgment of their ability to contribute to the community is inferred. Moreover, their failure to gain esteem in these pervasive domains eclipses their possession of other esteem-worthy traits as well as other positive contributions they might have made to society. This perception of inferiority renders it impossible for them to live on equal terms with other citizens. I argue that as egalitarians we should oppose these distributions of esteem.
A Study on Evacuation Behavior in Physical and Virtual Reality Experiments
Authors: Arias Silvia , Mossberg Axel , Nilsson Daniel , Wahlqvist Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Comparing results obtained in Virtual Reality to those obtained in physical experiments is key for validation of Virtual Reality as a research method in the field of Human Behavior in Fire. A series of experiments based on similar evacuation scenarios in a high-rise building with evacuation elevators was conducted. The experiments consisted of a physical experiment in a building, and two Virtual Reality experiments in a virtual representation of the same building: one using a Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE), and one using a head-mounted display (HMD). The data obtained in the HMD experiment is compared to data obtained in the CAVE and physical experiment. The three datasets were compared in terms of pre-evacuation time, noticing escape routes, walking paths, exit choice, waiting times for the elevators and eye-tracking data related to emergency signage. The HMD experiment was able to reproduce the data obtained in the physical experiment in terms of pre-evacuation time and exit choice, but there were large differences with the results from the CAVE experiment. Possible factors affecting the data produced using Virtual Reality are identified, such as spatial orientation and movement in the virtual environment.
The F11 Receptor (F11R)/Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A (JAM-A) (F11R/JAM-A) in cancer progression
Authors: Czubak-Prowizor Kamila , Babinska Anna , Swiatkowska Maria
Published: September 2021

The F11 Receptor (F11R), also called Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A (JAM-A) (F11R/JAM-A), is a transmembrane glycoprotein of the immunoglobulin superfamily, which is mainly located in epithelial and endothelial cell tight junctions and also expressed on circulating platelets and leukocytes. It participates in the regulation of various biological processes, as diverse as paracellular permeability, tight junction formation and maintenance, leukocyte transendothelial migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, reovirus binding, and platelet activation. Dysregulation of F11R/JAM-A may result in pathological consequences and disorders in normal cell function. A growing body of evidence points to its role in carcinogenesis and invasiveness, but its tissue-specific pro- or anti-tumorigenic role remains a debated issue. The following review focuses on the F11R/JAM-A tissue-dependent manner in tumorigenesis and metastasis and also discusses the correlation between poor patient clinical outcomes and its aberrant expression. In the future, it will be required to clarify the signaling pathways that are activated or suppressed via the F11R/JAM-A protein in various cancer types to understand its multiple roles in cancer progression and further use it as a novel direct target for cancer treatment.
Mortars and plasters - How to characterize mortar and plaster degradation
Authors: La Russa Mauro Francesco , Ruffolo Silvestro Antonio
Published: September 2021

The degradation of mortars and plasters can represent a threat for their preservation. That is why a deep understanding of the degradation mechanisms and the identification of degradation patterns is strongly recommended for who is in charge of conservation of archaeological sites and of built heritage in general. Here, it has been described what are the main degrading agents that can be detected on mortars and plasters and how they act to produce degradation. Moreover, an overview of the analyses which can be carried out directly on site and in laboratory as well has been reported. The knowledge that can be achieved by using such methods represents an essential tool to set up a suitable conservation plan. In addition, a more detailed analysis can also have a research purpose, since they can be useful to clarify some mechanisms and interactions that still remain unclear.
Lexical Grammar
Authors: Selivan Leo
Published: September 2021

This book is for anyone is interested in the relationship between grammar and vocabulary. The introduction looks at recent developments in corpus linguistics and second language acquisition research, and outlines the important role which chunks play in textual cohesion and in fluency, as well as in grammar acquisition. The practical part of the book provides practitioners with a large number of classroom suggestions and activities for making grammar teaching more lexical, and for making vocabulary practice more grammatical. Activities move from receptive to productive and can be used on their own or to supplement and enhance coursebook content.
Teaching Adult English Language Learners: A Practical Introduction
Authors: Parrish Betsy
Published: September 2021

This new edition of Betsy Parrish's Teaching Adult ESL: A Practical Introduction, provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of teaching principles and practices for working with adult English language learners. It is a valuable guide for both novice and experienced teachers. It outlines good teaching practice and draws on classroom examples to offer practical guidance grounded in the latest research on language teaching. Addressing the diverse needs of adult English learners, it provides ideas on how to prepare all learners for the demands and opportunities of the 21st century. The book has been completely revised and updated for the second edition to reflect significant recent developments in the ESL landscape. Chapters are clear and informative. They include tasks and opportunities for teachers to reflect on and apply what they have learned. Each chapter also includes a list of recommended reading and resources to further develop knowledge of the subject.
Attractors of Hamiltonian Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Komech Alexander , Kopylova Elena
Published: September 2021

This monograph is the first to present the theory of global attractors of Hamiltonian partial differential equations. A particular focus is placed on the results obtained in the last three decades, with chapters on the global attraction to stationary states, to solitons, and to stationary orbits. The text includes many physically relevant examples and will be of interest to graduate students and researchers in both mathematics and physics. The proofs involve novel applications of methods of harmonic analysis, including Tauberian theorems, Titchmarsh's convolution theorem, and the theory of quasimeasures. As well as the underlying theory, the authors discuss the results of numerical simulations and formulate open problems to prompt further research.