bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Acidity in Terephthalic Acid Synthesis from Renewable Carbon Source
Authors: Trandafir Mihaela‐Mirela , Neaţu Stefan , Bocîrnea Amelia , Counsell Jonathan , Cavani Fabrizio , Florea Mihaela , Neaţu Florentina
Published: September 2020

In this study, manganese‐cobalt (MnCo) mixed oxide catalysts were prepared by two different routes: co‐precipitation and citrate method. The structures and properties of the mixed oxide catalysts were investigated by several techniques: nitrogen adsorption‐desorption isotherms, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, SEM, FTIR and UV‐Vis spectroscopies, temperature‐programmed reduction with H2 (H2‐TPR) and temperature‐programmed desorption of NH3 (NH3‐TPD). Their catalytic performance was investigated in the liquid‐phase selective oxidation of naturally occurred p‐cymene to terephthalic acid, as an alternative to p‐xylene, a fossil derivative fuel component. Within this study, we demonstrate that the materials prepared by the co‐precipitation method present strong acid sites that boost the oxidation rate and allow oxidation of p‐cymene up to terephthalic acid. The co‐existence of a significant number of strong acid and centers in higher oxidation state (Co3+) are required for these materials to be selective.
Porous Boron Nitride as a Weak Solid Base Catalyst
Authors: Nakamura Shohei , Takagaki Atsushi , Watanabe Motonori , Yamada Kanta , Yoshida Masaaki , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: September 2020

Porous boron nitride was synthesized by pyrolysis from boric acid and urea mixed in varying molar ratios. The boron nitride prepared had high surface areas ranging from 376 to 647 m2 g−1 with both microporous and mesoporous structures. The sample prepared with a urea‐to‐boric acid molar ratio of 5 exhibited the highest pore volume with the highest surface area of mesopores. Boron‐K edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy revealed that the surface structure consisted of BN3 sites along with BN2O, BNO2, and BO3 sites. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated the formation of amino and hydroxyl groups on the surface. Analysis using color indicator reagents and deuterated chloroform‐adsorbed FTIR results indicated that the porous boron nitride had very weak base sites of strength +7.2>H−≥+6.3. Porous boron nitride exhibited a high activity for the nitroaldol reaction with a high selectivity for nitroalkene (>97 %). A good correlation was observed between the catalytic activity of the boron nitride catalysts and their porous structures.
Electrochemical Palladium‐Catalyzed Intramolecular C—H Amination of 2‐Amidobiaryls for Synthesis of Carbazoles
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Zhang Xiaojing , Wang Pan , Gao Xinlong , Zhang Heng , Lei Aiwen
Published: September 2020

Main observation and conclusion

The synthesis of carbazoles based on the electrochemical Pd‐catalyzed intramolecular C—H amination of 2‐amidobiaryls through oxidative cross coupling has been achieved under mild reaction conditions. The reaction can be carried out in undivided cell without the addition of external chemical oxidant. Besides good functional group compatibility, the desired carbazoles can be scaled up and modified easily. Compared with previous methods, this protocol affords a simple and sustainable avenue for the construction of carbazoles.
Gold‐Nanoparticle‐Decorated Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Navalón Sergio , Asiri Abdullah M. , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: September 2020

Confinement of Au nanoparticles (NPs) within the porous materials with few nanometers (2‐3 nm) has been a well established research area in the past decades in heterogeneous catalysis mainly due to the unique behaviour of Au NPs than its bulk counterpart. In this aspect, Au NPs encapsulated within the pore volumes of metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) have been intensively explored as heterogeneous solid catalysts for wide range of reactions. In recent years, Au NPs confined within the porous MOFs along with the photosensitizer or drug have been effectively used for the treatment of tumor cells through the generation of reactive oxygen species via cascade reactions. This work highlights the benefits of MOFs pores in the preparation of nanomedicine with high efficiency by assembling Au NPs, photosensitizer/drug with the combination of laser either for imaging or treatment of tumor cells. Further, the existing literature is grouped based on the nature of porous materials employed in the preparation of nanomedicine. The final section comments on our view on future developments in the field.
Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1)/thyroid transcription factor‐1 double immunohistochemical staining facilitates scoring of tumor PD‐L1 expression in cytopathology specimens from lung adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Lin Yen‐Yu , Lin Li‐Ya , Hang Jen‐Fan , Lin Chia‐Hung , Ho Hsiang‐Ling , Chou Teh‐Ying
Published: September 2020

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy has revolutionized lung adenocarcinoma therapy. Treatment with antibodies against the immune checkpoint molecules programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) can induce a durable response in a subset of patients. Immunohistochemistry characterization of tumor PD‐L1 expression using either a histopathology specimen or a cytopathology specimen has been shown to correlate with treatment response. However, the current practice relies on pathologists' visual estimation of tumor PD‐L1 staining, which can be variable in certain conditions. Highlighting tumor cells via double immunostaining with PD‐L1 and thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) may improve estimation accuracy.

Methods

We performed PD‐L1 single staining and PD‐L1/TTF‐1 double staining in 42 pairs of cytopathology and histopathology specimens from lung adenocarcinoma patients. An experienced pathologist visually estimated PD‐L1 expression in each case and placed tumor PD‐L1 expression into 1 of 3 categories: <1%, 1%‐49%, or ≥50%. A medical technologist also performed estimations of the same cases based on a count of 200 tumor cells, and the results were compared.

Results

PD‐L1/TTF‐1 double immunohistochemistry could better identify the PD‐L1–positive tumor cells in cytopathology specimens compared with PD‐L1 single staining. The concordance of PD‐L1 expression categorization between the pathologist's visual estimation and the medical technologist's counting was increased by double staining in cytopathology specimens (Cohen's weighted kappa: single stain, 0.784; double stain, 0.880). Double staining reduced possible error in the pathologist's visual estimation of PD‐L1 expression from 9.5% to 4.8%. The benefit was not observed in histopathology specimens.

Conclusion

A simple PD‐L1/TTF‐1 double immunohistochemistry technique can be applied successfully to cytopathology specimens in better identifying patients who can potentially benefit from immune checkpoint blockade treatment.
Detection of memory‐ and learning‐related brain connectivity changes following trace eyeblink‐conditioning using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging in the awake rabbit
Authors: Bertolino Nicola , Procissi Daniele , Disterhoft John F , Weiss Craig
Published: September 2020

Animal imaging studies have the potential to further establish resting‐state fMRI (rs‐fMRI) and enable its validation for clinical use. The rabbit subjects used in this work are an ideal model system for studying learning and behavior and are also an excellent established test subject for awake scanning given their natural tolerance for restraint. We found that analysis of rs‐fMRI conducted on a cohort of rabbits undergoing eyeblink conditioning can reveal functional brain connectivity changes associated with learning, and that rs‐fMRI can be used to capture differences between subjects with different levels of cognitive performance. rs‐fMRI sessions were conducted on a cohort of rabbits before and after trace eyeblink conditioning. MRI results were analyzed using independent component analysis (ICA) and network analysis. Behavioral data were collected with standard methods using an infrared reflective sensor aimed at the cornea to detect blinks. Behavioral results were analyzed, and a median split was used to create two groups of rabbits based on their performance. The cohort of rabbits undergoing eyeblink conditioning exhibited increased functional connectivity in the cingulate cortex, retrosplenial cortex, and thalamus consistent with brain reorganization associated with increased learning. Differences in the striatum and right cerebellum were also identified between rabbits in the top or bottom halves of the group as measured by the behavioral assay. Thus, rs‐fMRI can provide not only a tool to detect and monitor functional brain changes associated with learning, but also to discriminate between different levels of cognitive performance.
Genetic Manipulation of Vibrio fischeri
Authors: Christensen David G. , Tepavčević Jovanka , Visick Karen L.
Published: September 2020

Vibrio fischeri is a nonpathogenic organism related to pathogenic Vibrio species. The bacterium has been used as a model organism to study symbiosis in the context of its association with its host, the Hawaiian bobtail squid Euprymna scolopes. The genetic tractability of this bacterium has facilitated the mapping of pathways that mediate interactions between these organisms. The protocols included here describe methods for genetic manipulation of V. fischeri. Following these protocols, the researcher will be able to introduce linear DNA via transformation to make chromosomal mutations, to introduce plasmid DNA via conjugation and subsequently eliminate unstable plasmids, to eliminate antibiotic resistance cassettes from the chromosome, and to randomly or specifically mutagenize V. fischeri with transposons. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Transformation of V. fischeri with linear DNA

Basic Protocol 2: Plasmid transfer into V. fischeri via conjugation

Support Protocol 1: Removing FRT‐flanked antibiotic resistance cassettes from the V. fischeri genome

Support Protocol 2: Eliminating unstable plasmids from V. fischeri

Alternate Protocol 1: Introduction of exogenous DNA using a suicide plasmid

Alternate Protocol 2: Site‐specific transposon insertion using a suicide plasmid

Alternate Protocol 3: Random transposon mutagenesis using a suicide plasmid
The impact on mental health practitioners of the death of a patient by suicide: A systematic review
Authors: Sandford David M. , Kirtley Olivia J. , Thwaites Richard , O'Connor Rory C.
Published: September 2020

There is a growing body of research investigating the impact on mental health professionals of losing a patient through suicide. However, the nature and extent of the impact is unclear. This systematic review synthesizes both quantitative and qualitative studies in the area. The aim was to review the literature on the impact of losing a patient through suicide with respect to both personal and professional practice responses as well as the support received. A search of the major psychological and medical databases was conducted, using keywords including suicide, patient, practitioner, and impact, which yielded 3,942 records. Fifty‐four studies were included in the final narrative synthesis. Most common personal reactions in qualitative studies included guilt, shock, sadness, anger, and blame. Impact on professional practice included self‐doubt and being more cautious and defensive in the management of suicide risk. As quantitative study methodologies were heterogeneous, it was difficult to make direct comparisons across studies. However, 13 studies (total n = 717 practitioners) utilized the Impact of Event Scale, finding that between 12% and 53% of practitioners recorded clinically significant scores. The need for training that is focused on the impact of suicides, and the value placed upon informal support was often cited. The experience of losing a patient through suicide can have a significant impact on mental health professionals, both in terms of their personal reactions and subsequent changes to professional practice. The negative impact, however, may be moderated by cultural and organisational factors and by the nature of support available.
Environmental performance, carbon performance and earnings management: Empirical evidence for the European capital market
Authors: Velte Patrick
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between environmental performance, carbon performance and earnings management. This analysis includes panel regressions as empirical‐quantitative (archival) research methods and looks at the 2014–2018 financial years of companies listed on the STOXX Europe 600 (1,509 firm‐year observations). Environmental (carbon) performance proxies are included as independent variables, and with two earnings quality measures, accrual‐based earnings management (ACC) and real earnings management (REM) as dependent variables. Our findings align with prior research on sustainability performance and indicate that environmental (carbon) performance reduces ACC but increases REM. After including Granger causality tests, we find no indications of a bidirectional relationship. This analysis makes a key contribution to prior studies as this appears to be the first on the relationship between environmental (carbon) performance and earnings management in the European capital market. The study has major implications for business practice, regulators and research. Managers might use environmental and carbon strategies for greenwashing policies as this change in earnings management can be hardly detected by other stakeholders.
Opportunities for the Use of Brazilian Biomass to Produce Renewable Chemicals and Materials
Authors: Alarcon Rafael T. , Lamb Katie J. , Bannach Gilbert , North Michael
Published: September 2020

This Review highlights the principal crops of Brazil and how their harvest waste can be used in the chemicals and materials industries. The Review covers various plants; with grains, fruits, trees and nuts all being discussed. Native and adopted plants are included and studies on using these plants as a source of chemicals and materials for industrial applications, polymer synthesis, medicinal use and in chemical research are discussed. The main aim of the Review is to highlight the principal Brazilian agricultural resources; such as sugarcane, oranges and soybean, as well as secondary resources, such as andiroba brazil nut, buriti and others, which should be explored further for scientific and technological applications. Furthermore, vegetable oils, carbohydrates (starch, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignocellulose and pectin), flavones and essential oils are described as well as their potential applications.
The Future of Carbon Dioxide Chemistry
Authors: Dibenedetto Angela , Nocito Francesco
Published: September 2020

The utilization of carbon dioxide as building block for chemicals or source of carbon for energy products has been explored for over 40 years now, with varying allure. In correspondence with oil‐crises, the use of CO2has come into the spotlight, soon set aside when the crisis was over due to the low price of fossil carbon and the convenience of using established technologies. Nowadays, there is a continuous shift from fossil‐C‐based to perennial (solar, wind, geothermal, hydro‐power) energy‐driven processes that will also have a great potential to convert large amounts of carbon dioxide. The integration of biotechnology and catalysis will be a key player towards the utilization of CO2in several different applications, reducing both the extraction of fossil carbon and the carbon transfer to the atmosphere.
Leveraging public data to offer online inquiry opportunities
Authors: Thompson Seth K. , Kirkpatrick Catherine , Kramer Maxwell , Cotner Sehoya
Published: September 2020

Inquiry activities have become increasingly common in Ecology and Evolution courses, but the rapid shift to remote instruction for many faculty members in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic has created new challenges for maintaining these student‐centered activities in a distance learning format. Moving forward, many instructors will be asked to create flexible course structures that allow for a mix of different teaching modalities and will be looking for resources to support student inquiry in both online and in‐person settings. Here, we propose the use of data‐driven inquiry activities as a flexible option for offering students experiences to build career‐relevant skills and learn fundamental ecological concepts. We share lessons learned from our experiences teaching a two‐semester course‐based research experience in global change ecology that leverages publicly available datasets to engage students in broadly relevant scientific inquiry.
The relationship between morphology and behavior in mixed‐species flocks of island birds
Authors: Weeks Brian C. , Naeem Shahid , Winger Benjamin M. , Cracraft Joel
Published: September 2020

Understanding how co‐occurring species divide ecological space is a central issue in ecology. Functional traits have the potential to serve as a means for quantitatively assessing niche partitioning by different species based on their ecological attributes, such as morphology, behavior, or trophic habit. This enables testing ecological and evolutionary questions using functional traits at spatio‐temporal scales that are not feasible using traditional field methods. Both rapid evolutionary change and inter‐ and intraspecific competition, however, may limit the utility of morphological functional traits as indicators of how niches are partitioned. To address how behavior and morphology interact, we quantified foraging behavior of mixed‐species flocks of birds in the Solomon Islands to test whether behavior and morphology are correlated in these flocks. We find that foraging behavior is significantly correlated with morphological traits (p = .05), but this correlation breaks down after correcting for phylogenetic relatedness (p = .66). These results suggest that there are consistent correlations between aspects of behavior and morphology at large taxonomic scales (e.g., across genera), but the relationship between behavior and morphology depends largely on among‐clade differences and may be idiosyncratic at shallower scales (e.g., within genera). As a result, general relationships between behaviors and morphology may not be applicable when comparing close relatives.
Occupancy‐based monitoring of ungulate prey species in Thailand indicates population stability, but limited recovery
Authors: Phumanee Worrapan , Steinmetz Robert , Phoonjampa Rungnapa , Bejraburnin Thawatchai , Grainger Matthew , Savini Tommaso
Published: September 2020

Longitudinal studies of wildlife are urgently needed in South‐East Asia to understand population responses to the high poaching pressure that characterizes this region. We monitored population trends and habitat use of five heavily poached ungulate species (gaur, sambar, wild pig, red muntjac, and Fea's muntjac) over five years in two protected areas in western Thailand using camera trap surveys. We used single‐season occupancy models to investigate effects of ecological and anthropological variables on ungulate distribution, and multi‐season models to assess occupancy dynamics over time. Occupancy of gaur and sambar was low (<0.25), but concentrated near saltlicks and at low elevations. Wild pig and muntjac occupancies were 3–4 times higher (0.60–0.80). Wild pig occupancy was lower near villages, but this effect dissipated in the final year of the study, coinciding with a purported decrease in poaching. Wild pig occupancy increased significantly, with the probability of colonizing new sites doubling from 0.40 to 0.81 over time. In contrast, occupancy rates of gaur, sambar, and muntjac did not grow, though they were stable. Poaching pressure during the study was low, perhaps allowing populations to stabilize. But only wild pig (the most resilient of the five species) increased. The failure of gaur and sambar to recover might stem from historical overhunting combined with ecological constraints, particularly low saltlick density. Recovery of ungulates (and the carnivores that depend on them) in overhunted South‐East Asian reserves might require intensive interventions, particularly habitat improvement and population augmentation, to achieve conservation objectives.
Visible Light Photocatalytic Synthesis of Tetrahydroquinolines Under Batch and Flow Conditions
Authors: González‐Muñoz Daniel , Nova‐Fernández José Luis , Martinelli Ada , Pascual‐Coca Gustavo , Cabrera Silvia , Alemán José
Published: September 2020

In this work, we describe the use of visible light and a photocatalytic system for the cyclization of iodoaryl vinyl derivatives to tetrahydroquinoline structures. The reaction proceeds under very mild conditions, tolerates different functional groups and more importantly, the method allows the synthesis of N‐free tetrahydroquinolines from N‐unprotected starting materials. In addition, the reaction can also be performed using flow‐chemistry. Finally, a mechanistic proposal based on some mechanistic studies has been described.
The role of alumni in international recruiting
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: September 2020

Anyone working in higher education today knows international recruiting and admissions have changed, and in all likelihood will be changed forever.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and obesity. Impact of obesity and its main comorbidities in the evolution of the disease
Authors: Cornejo‐Pareja Isabel M. , Gómez‐Pérez Ana M. , Fernández‐García José C. , Barahona San Millan Rebeca , Aguilera Luque Alexandre , de Hollanda Ana , Jiménez Amanda , Jimenez‐Murcia Susana , Munguia Lucero , Ortega Emilio , Fernandez‐Aranda Fernando , Fernández Real José M. , Tinahones Francisco
Published: September 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic is posing a great challenge worldwide. Its rapid progression has caused thousands of deaths worldwide. Although multiple aspects remain to be clarified, some risk factors associated with a worse prognosis have been identified. These include obesity and some of its main complications, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Furthermore, although the possible long‐term complications and psychological effects that may appear in survivors of COVID‐19 are not well known yet, there is a concern that those complications may be greater in obese patients. In this manuscript, we review some of the data published so far and the main points that remain to be elucidated are emphasized.
Reconstruction of the Grenfell Tower fire – Part 4: Contribution to the understanding of fire propagation and behaviour during horizontal fire spread
Authors: Guillaume Eric , Dréan Virginie , Girardin Bertrand , Fateh Talal
Published: September 2020

The tragic events at Grenfell Tower in 2017, involving a combustible façade system, have raised concerns regarding the fire risk that these systems pose. In this series of articles, so far published, fire development inside the initial apartment has been investigated using an appropriate computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. Several scenarios including different fire sources and ventilation conditions were addressed. Fire propagation through the window to the external façade and to higher apartments was modelled. This model was validated by comparing the numerical results with the visual observations reported in the Grenfell Inquiry. A CFD model of the complete east face of the Grenfell Tower was then created. This paper details CFD modelling of the complete Grenfell Tower façade during the late horizontal phase of fire spread. As the physics of lateral flame spread is different from that for upward flame spread, it is important to assess the validity of the model, thus far developed, for this configuration. Fire propagation over the whole façade is modelled and compared with observations from the real disaster. This provides a better understanding of its fire behaviour and of the contribution of architectural details and their impact on fire spread.
Syn‐tectonic emplacement during sinistral transpression: The Late Triassic Gaoqiao pluton in the South Qinling Belt, central China
Authors: Tao Wei , Li Yang , Chen Yingtao , Lu Rukui , Ran Yazhou , Zhang Pengpeng , Zhang Guowei
Published: September 2020

Internal structures of the pluton may provide key information on magma emplacement mechanism and the relationship with regional tectonics. We present a case study on the Late Triassic Gaoqiao pluton from South Qinling Belt, which was emplaced under a syn‐collisional setting. Multi‐approaches including zircon U–Pb geochronology, field and microstructural observations, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility analysis was conducted to reconstruct the growth process of the pluton and to investigate the internal structures. Zircon U–Pb geochronology reveals that the pluton is a composite intrusion which was constructed by two successive units with distinct ages (~220 and ~210 Ma). Field observations show that the Gaoqiao pluton and its country rocks recorded abundant evidences of syn‐plutonic deformations, indicating a syn‐tectonic emplacement. Microstructural observations show that the internal fabrics were mainly acquired during the stage from magma flow to high‐T solid‐state deformation. The fabric distributions display ‘onion‐skin’ patterns on the pluton scale, which are characterized by zoned foliations and lineations. Combined with the syn‐collisional convergence setting, we propose a tectonic‐controlled incremental growth model for the pluton, in which the pluton was successively constructed by the Fujiahe unit and the Hetaoping unit, and the emplacement process of the pluton was controlled by the regional deformation with sinistral transpressional kinematics. Furthermore, the internal fabric patterns of the Gaoqiao pluton were probably formed by tectonic‐controlled helical magma flow, which appears to be common in fabric formation of many other plutons with similar features.
Zircon U–Pb geochronology and in situ Hf isotopic compositions of the Madao migmatite: Constraints on the Mesozoic orogeny in the South Qinling belt
Authors: Wang Dong‐Sheng , Wang Zong‐Qi , Wang Tao , Nie Xiao , Gong Jiang‐Hua
Published: September 2020

To understand the crustal growth of the Qinling orogenic belt and the Mesozoic continental interaction between the North China and Yangtze blocks, it is critical to study the South Qinling accretionary complex belt, which is an important part of the Qinling orogen. Based on detailed zircon U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotopic compositional analyses of the Madao complex, this study presents constraints on the migmatization and tectonic evolution of the South Qinling orogenic belt during the Mesozoic. Zircons from leucosome samples of migmatites were found to have weak oscillatory zoning, and one sample yielded a weighted mean age that reflects the time at which the regional tectono‐thermal event initiated the anatexis (210–217 ± 2 Ma). The Hf isotopic compositions indicate that the Madao migmatites were derived from the ancient middle–Late Palaeoproterozoic crust. Zircons from mesosome samples of the migmatites that varied in age from the Palaeozoic to Neoproterozoic exhibited core‐rim textures with magmatic cores (256–1,329 Ma), indicating that they were derived from multiple sources with sedimentary protoliths. Of the 55 analysis spots on the overgrowth rims that yielded 206Pb/238U ages of 200–233 Ma, 40 analyses yielded a weighted age of 211.5 ± 1.0 Ma, indicating the time of anatexis due to the regional tectono‐thermal event. Combined with previously reported Mesozoic data from the South Qinling belt, these results suggest that the migmatites were probably controlled by post‐orogenic extension driven by Mesozoic orogenesis and a prolonged melting episode (from ~200 to 233 Ma). This study reinforces the interpretation that the continental crust in the South Qinling belt may have experienced complex interactions with asthenospheric mantle material during the Mesozoic.
The early impact of Scotland's minimum unit pricing policy on alcohol prices and sales
Authors: Xhurxhi Irena Palamani
Published: September 2020

In May 2018, Scotland became the first country in the world to enforce a minimum unit pricing (MUP) of 50 pence ($0.65; €0.55) on alcoholic beverages as a measure to control alcohol consumption and alcohol‐related harms. This study presents early estimates of the impact of MUP on three outcomes: average price per unit (8 gr/10 ml) of alcohol, liters of alcohol sold per adult, and liters of alcohol sold per adult drinker, in three different settings: off‐premise, on‐premise, and both combined. Using yearly alcohol price and sales data from 2011 to 2019, I find that the average price per unit of alcohol has significantly risen post‐MUP across all beverage categories (beer, spirits, wine, cider, and alcohol‐all types), whereas liters of alcohol sold per adult and per adult drinker have significantly reduced for beer, spirits, cider, and alcohol‐all types. For all outcomes, the impact of MUP on off‐premise alcohol prices and sales is more pronounced than under the combined case, while no significant effects are found on‐premise. These results are robust to model specification and to the addition of various control variables. Falsification tests changing the timing of the policy were performed and no significant results were found.
Untreated head and neck cancer: Natural history and associated factors
Authors: Zolkind Paul , Lee Jake J. , Jackson Ryan S. , Pipkorn Patrik , Massa Sean T.
Published: September 2020

Background

This study aims to provide modern estimates of survival for untreated head and neck cancer (HNC) and to identify patient‐ and tumor‐specific factors associated with not receiving definitive treatment.

Methods

Adults with mucosal HNC were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Median overall survival of untreated patients was calculated and stratified by site and stage. Cause‐specific survival and factors associated with no treatment were investigated with advanced statistics.

Results

The study cohort included 6477 patients who received no treatment. Overall, untreated patients had a median survival of 12 months, with significant variability by site and stage. Multivariable analysis identified advanced age, black race, unmarried status, and lack of private insurance as associated with no treatment.

Conclusions

Survival of HNC without treatment is dismal, yet substantial variation exists by tumor site and stage. Higher rates of no treatment among the poor and racial minorities are potentially driven by disparities in care availability and provision.
National trends in oropharyngeal cancer incidence and survival within the Veterans Affairs Health Care System
Authors: Zevallos Jose P. , Kramer Jennifer R. , Sandulache Vlad C. , Massa Sean T. , Hartman Christine M. , Mazul Angela L. , Wahle Benjamin M. , Gerndt Sophie P. , Sturgis Erich M. , Chiao Elizabeth Y.
Published: September 2020

Background

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) epidemiology has not been examined previously in the nationwide Veterans Affairs (VA) population.

Methods

Joinpoint regression analysis was applied to OPSCC cases identified from VA administrative data from 2000 to 2012.

Results

We identified 12 125 OPSCC cases (incidence: 12.2 of 100 000 persons). OPSCC incidence declined between 2000 and 2006 (annual percent change [APC] = −4.27, P < .05), then increased between 2006 and 2012 (APC = 7.02, P < .05). Significant incidence increases occurred among white (APC = 7.19, P < .05) and African American (APC = 4.87, P < .05) Veterans and across all age cohorts. The percentage of never‐smokers increased from 8% in 2000 to 15.7% in 2012 (P < .001), and 2‐year overall survival improved from 31.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) [30‐33.4]) to 55.7% (95% CI [54.4‐57.1]).

Conclusions

OPSCC incidence is increasing across all racial and age cohorts in the VA population. Smoking rates remain high among Veterans with OPSCC and gains in survival lag those reported in the general population.
Promoterless, Nuclease‐Free Genome Editing Confers a Growth Advantage for Corrected Hepatocytes in Mice With Methylmalonic Acidemia
Authors: Chandler Randy J. , Venturoni Leah E. , Liao Jing , Hubbard Brandon T. , Schneller Jessica L. , Hoffmann Victoria , Gordo Susana , Zang Shengwen , Ko Chih‐Wei , Chau Nelson , Chiang Kyle , Kay Mark A. , Barzel Adi , Venditti Charles P.
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Adeno‐associated viral (AAV) gene therapy has shown great promise as an alternative treatment for metabolic disorders managed using liver transplantation, but remains limited by transgene loss and genotoxicity. Our study aims to test an AAV vector with a promoterless integrating cassette, designed to provide sustained hepatic transgene expression and reduced toxicity in comparison to canonical AAV therapy.

Approach and Results

Our AAV vector was designed to insert a methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase (MMUT) transgene into the 3′ end of the albumin locus and tested in mouse models of methylmalonic acidemia (MMA). After neonatal delivery, we longitudinally evaluated hepatic transgene expression, plasma levels of methylmalonate, and the MMA biomarker, fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21), as well as integration of MMUT in the albumin locus. At necropsy, we surveyed for AAV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in all treated MMA mice and control littermates. AAV‐mediated genome editing of MMUT into the albumin locus resulted in permanent hepatic correction in MMA mouse models, which was accompanied by decreased levels of methylmalonate and Fgf21, and improved survival without HCC. With time, levels of transgene expression increased and methylmalonate progressively decreased, whereas the number of albumin‐MMUT integrations and corrected hepatocytes in MMA mice increased, but not in similarly treated wild‐type animals. Additionally, expression of MMUT in the setting of MMA conferred a selective growth advantage upon edited cells, which potentiates the therapeutic response.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that AAV‐mediated, promoterless, nuclease‐free genome editing at the albumin locus provides safe and durable therapeutic benefit in neonatally treated MMA mice.
Early Cholangiocarcinoma Detection With Magnetic Resonance Imaging Versus Ultrasound in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Eaton John E. , Welle Christopher L. , Bakhshi Zeinab , Sheedy Shannon P. , Idilman Ilkay S. , Gores Gregory J. , Rosen Charles B. , Heimbach Julie K. , Taner Timucin , Harnois Denise M. , Lindor Keith D. , LaRusso Nicholas F. , Gossard Andrea A. , Lazaridis Konstantinos N. , Venkatesh Sudhakar K.
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Early detection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) among patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is important to identify more people eligible for curative therapy. While many recommend CCA screening, there are divergent opinions and limited data regarding the use of ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for early CCA detection, and it is unknown whether there is benefit in testing asymptomatic individuals. Our aims were to assess the diagnostic performances and prognostic implications of ultrasound and MRI‐based CCA detection.

Approach and Results

This is a multicenter review of 266 adults with PSC (CCA, n = 120) who underwent both an ultrasound and MRI within 3 months. Images were re‐examined by radiologists who were blinded to the clinical information. Respectively, MRI had a higher area under the curve compared with ultrasound for CCA detection: 0.87 versus 0.70 for the entire cohort; 0.81 versus 0.59 for asymptomatic individuals; and 0.88 versus 0.71 for those listed for CCA transplant protocol. The absence of symptoms at CCA diagnosis was associated with improved 5‐year outcomes including overall survival (82% vs. 46%, log‐rank P < 0.01) and recurrence‐free survival following liver transplant (89% vs. 65%, log‐rank P = 0.04). Among those with asymptomatic CCA, MRI detection (compared with ultrasound) was associated with reduction in both mortality (hazard ratio, 0.10; 95% confidence interval, 0.01‐0.96) and CCA progression after transplant listing (hazard ratio, 0.10; 95% confidence interval, 0.01‐0.90). These benefits continued among patients who had annual monitoring and PSC for more than 1 year before CCA was diagnosed.

Conclusions

MRI is superior to ultrasound for the detection of early‐stage CCA in patients with PSC. Identification of CCA before the onset of symptoms with MRI is associated with improved outcomes.
Investigation into waiting time, self‐service technology, and customer loyalty: The mediating role of waiting time in satisfaction
Authors: Ayodeji Yusuf , Rjoub Husam
Published: September 2020

This study examines customer satisfaction with waiting time (WT) and customer loyalty (CL) relationships in the airline industry. The mediating influence of waiting time satisfaction (WTS) in the self‐service technology (SST) and CL relationship was also examined. Seven hundred fifty structured questionnaires were administered at Sabiha Gökçen, and Instabul international airports in Turkey and partial least square–structural equation modeling were employed for the model analysis. The findings reveal that SST, perceived, retrospective, and prospective WTs are major determinants of WTS. Furthermore, SST and WTS were found to have a linear and significant positive influence on CL. Therefore, this study suggests that the airport management should identify the causes of WT, make the waiting environment conducive for the customers, make the WT inconsequential to the customers, and enhance their loyalty to the airport.
Women's decision‐making autonomy and utilization of antenatal, natal and post‐natal healthcare services: Insights from Tajikistan's national surveys
Authors: Auchynnikava Alena , Habibov Nazim
Published: September 2020

Background

The purpose of this article is to investigate the link between women's autonomy and their utilization of antenatal, natal and post‐natal healthcare services in Tajikistan. Previous studies focused only on a single dimension of such services, for instance, utilization of antenatal care. By contrast, we explore antenatal, natal and post‐natal healthcare services utilization using the number of indicator for each of the dimensions.

Methods

Data come from two national surveys that were conducted in 2012 and 2017. The target population is women of reproductive age (16–49) who were married or cohabitating with a partner (N = 7540). Several regression models were estimated to quantify association between women's autonomy and the utilization.

Results

Lack of women's autonomy is associated with a lower probability of: (a) having had at least four antenatal check‐ups during pregnancy, (b) beginning first antenatal check‐up early, (c) delivering in a healthcare facility, (d) having the skilled attendance during pregnancy, (e) having a mother post‐delivery check‐up, and (f) having a child post‐delivery check‐up. The size effect of women's autonomy is stronger than that of well‐developed precursors of utilization such as poverty and mothers' education.

Conclusion

Women autonomy should be improved to achieve higher rates of child and maternal healthcare utilization. Studies of maternal and child healthcare utilization should control explicitly for women's autonomy.
Changes in groundwater bacterial community during cyclic groundwater‐table variations
Authors: Xia Xuefeng , Stewart Douglas Ian , Cheng Lirong , Wang Kai , Li Jing , Zhang Dan , Ding Aizhong
Published: September 2020

Column experiments containing an aquifer sand were subjected to static and oscillating water tables to investigate the impact of natural fluctuations and rainfall infiltration on the groundwater bacterial community just below the phreatic surface, and its association with the geochemistry. Once the columns were established, the continuously saturated zone was anoxic in all three columns. The rate of soil organic matter (SOM) mineralization was higher when the water table varied cyclically than when it was static due to the greater availability of NO3− and SO42−. Natural fluctuations in the water table resulted in a similar NO3− concentration to that observed with a static water table but the cyclic wetting of the intermittently saturated zone resulted in a higher SO42− concentration. Rainfall infiltration induced cyclic water‐table variations resulted in a higher NO3− concentration than those in the other two columns, and a SO42− concentration intermediate between those columns. As rainwater infiltration resulted in slow downward displacement of the groundwater, it is inferred that NO3− and SO42− were being mobilized from the vadose zone. NO3− was mainly released by SOM mineralization (which was enhanced by the infiltration of oxygenated rainwater), but the larger amount of SO42− release required a second mechanism (possibly desorption). Different groundwater bacterial communities evolved from initially similar populations due to the different groundwater histories.
Home literacy practices in relation to language skills of children living in low‐wealth rural communities
Authors: Zgourou Eleni , Bratsch‐Hines Mary , Vernon‐Feagans Lynne
Published: September 2020

Using a sample of 1,117 families living in low‐wealth rural areas, the current study focused on how home literacy practices for 3‐year‐old children were related to the children's language skills at ages 3 and 4. Three types of home literacy practices were explored: parent‐to‐child literacy practices, child literacy practices, and parent literacy practices. Results indicated that a variety of parent‐to‐child and child literacy practices frequently took place. Regression analyses showed that only child literacy practices were positively associated with language outcomes concurrently at age 3 and later at age 4. Findings have implications for early childhood educators and policy makers who may use this information to support literacy practices among families residing in low‐wealth rural areas.

Highlights

Home literacy practices in rural families were explored in relation to children's language skills.

Home literacy practices at age 3 included parent‐to‐child literacy practices, child literacy practices, and parent literacy practices.

Only child literacy practices were significantly associated with children's language skills at ages 3 and 4.
Mammography features for early markers of aggressive breast cancer subtypes and tumor characteristics: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Tan Pui San , Ali Maya Alsheh , Eriksson Mikael , Hall Per , Humphreys Keith , Czene Kamila
Published: September 2020

Current breast cancer risk models identify mostly less aggressive tumors, although only women developing fatal breast cancer will greatly benefit from early identification. Here, we evaluated the use of mammography features (microcalcification clusters, computer‐generated Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System [cBIRADS] density and lack of breast density reduction) as early markers of aggressive subtypes and tumor characteristics. Mammograms were retrieved from a population‐based cohort of women that were diagnosed with breast cancer from 2001 to 2008 in Stockholm‐Gotland County, Sweden. Tumor and patient characteristics were obtained from Stockholm Breast Cancer Quality Register and the Swedish Cancer Registry. Multinomial logistic regression was used to individually model each mammographic feature as a function of molecular subtypes, tumor characteristics and detection mode. A total of 4546 women with invasive breast cancer were included in the study. Women with microcalcification clusters in the affected breast were more likely to have human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 subtype (odds ratio [OR] 1.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24‐2.54) and potentially less likely to have basal subtype (OR 0.54; 0.30‐0.96) compared to Luminal A subtype. High mammographic cBIRADS showed association with larger tumor size and interval vs screen‐detected cancers. Lack of density reduction was associated with interval vs screen‐detected cancers (OR 1.43; 1.11‐1.83) and potentially of Luminal B subtype vs Luminal A subtype (OR 1.76; 1.04‐2.99). In conclusion, microcalcification clusters, cBIRADS density and lack of breast density reduction could serve as early markers of particular subtypes and tumor characteristics of breast cancer. This information has the potential to be integrated into risk models to identify women at risk for developing aggressive breast cancer in need of supplemental screening.
The relationship between gold price and the American financial market
Authors: Moussa Wajdi , Mgadmi Nidhal , Regaieg Rym , Bejaoui Azza
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we examine the effect of the gold price on the American financial market. In particular, we analyse the impact of gold price on dollar exchange rate and returns of the American banks. Methodologically, we use a unified approach based on multi‐models not only to examine the gold price and U.S. market nexus but also to highlight the dynamics of such relationship over the period December 19, 1994–June 30, 2017. We show that a long‐relationship between gold price, dollar exchange rate and U.S. bank returns is well documented. As well, the behaviour and dynamics of such relationship are characterized by some salient features. In particular, the nonlinear adjustment of gold price against the U.S. financial market is well documented, implying that gold price plays a substantial role in creating a pressure on the dollar exchange rate and U.S. banks returns. Such findings could provide interesting insights for policymakers and investors.
Remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome in maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Matsugasumi Toru , Nakanouchi Tsuneyuki , Mikami Kazuya , Shiraishi Takumi , Kadoya Masatoshi , Toriyama Seijiro , Taniguchi Hidefumi , Fujihara Atsuko , Hongo Fumiya , Ukimura Osamu
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome primarily occurs in elderly individuals to represent symptoms of edema, pain, and joint swelling. It could be misdiagnosed in elderly maintenance hemodialysis patients, as hemodialysis patients often present with pain and joint swelling induced by hypervolemia, inflammation, amyloidosis, and/or chronic kidney disease. Here, we describe a maintenance hemodialysis patient with remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome.

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old man on maintenance hemodialysis who complained of continuous pain and swelling of joints was diagnosed with remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome on his clinical findings that revealed tenosynovitis at the joint without joint erosions and no elevation of anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody and rheumatoid factor. After administration of prednisolone, systemic edema, and pain improved in 2 days.

Conclusion

Remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis in hemodialysis patients with edema and/or arthralgia.