bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deterministic linear Boltzmann transport equation solver for patient‐specific CT dose estimation: Comparison against a Monte Carlo benchmark for realistic scanner configurations and patient models
Authors: Principi Sara , Wang Adam , Maslowski Alexander , Wareing Todd , Jordan Petr , Schmidt Taly Gilat
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Epidemiological evidence suggests an increased risk of cancer related to computed tomography (CT) scans, with children exposed to greater risk. The purpose of this work is to test the reliability of a linear Boltzmann transport equation (LBTE) solver for rapid and patient‐specific CT dose estimation. This includes building a flexible LBTE framework for modeling modern clinical CT scanners and to validate the resulting dose maps across a range of realistic scanner configurations and patient models.

Methods

In this study, computational tools were developed for modeling CT scanners, including a bowtie filter, overrange collimation, and tube current modulation. The LBTE solver requires discretization in the spatial, angular, and spectral dimensions, which may affect the accuracy of scanner modeling. To investigate these effects, this study evaluated the LBTE dose accuracy for different discretization parameters, scanner configurations, and patient models (male, female, adults, pediatric). The method used to validate the LBTE dose maps was the Monte Carlo code Geant4, which provided ground truth dose maps. LBTE simulations were implemented on a GeForce GTX 1080 graphic unit, while Geant4 was implemented on a distributed cluster of CPUs.

Results

The agreement between Geant4 and the LBTE solver quantifies the accuracy of the LBTE, which was similar across the different protocols and phantoms. The results suggest that 18 views per rotation provides sufficient accuracy, as no significant improvement in the accuracy was observed by increasing the number of projection views. Considering this discretization, the LBTE solver average simulation time was approximately 30 s. However, in the LBTE solver the phantom model was implemented with a lower voxel resolution with respect to Geant4, as it is limited by the memory of the GPU. Despite this discretization, the results showed a good agreement between the LBTE and Geant4, with root mean square error of the dose in organs of approximately 3.5% for most of the studied configurations.

Conclusions

The LBTE solver is proposed as an alternative to Monte Carlo for patient‐specific organ dose estimation. This study demonstrated accurate organ dose estimates for the rapid LBTE solver when considering realistic aspects of CT scanners and a range of phantom models. Future plans will combine the LBTE framework with deep learning autosegmentation algorithms to provide near real‐time patient‐specific organ dose estimation.
Adaptive slice‐specific z‐shimming for 2D spoiled gradient‐echo sequences
Authors: Soellradl Martin , Strasser Johannes , Lesch Andreas , Stollberger Rudolf , Ropele Stefan , Langkammer Christian
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To reduce the misbalance between compensation gradients and macroscopic field gradients, we introduce an adaptive slice‐specific z‐shimming approach for 2D spoiled multi‐echo gradient‐echoe sequences in combination with modeling of the signal decay.

Methods

Macroscopic field gradients were estimated for each slice from a fast prescan (15 seconds) and then used to calculate slice‐specific compensation moments along the echo train. The coverage of the compensated field gradients was increased by applying three positive and three negative moments. With a forward model, which considered the effect of the slice profile, the z‐shim moment, and the field gradient, maps were estimated. The method was evaluated in phantom and in vivo measurements at 3 T and compared with a spoiled multi‐echo gradient‐echo and a global z‐shimming approach without slice‐specific compensation.

Results

The proposed method yielded higher SNR in maps due to a broader range of compensated macroscopic field gradients compared with global z‐shimming. In global white matter, the mean interquartile range, proxy for SNR, could be decreased to 3.06 s−1 with the proposed approach, compared with 3.37 s−1 for global z‐shimming and 3.52 s−1 for uncompensated multi‐echo gradient‐echo.

Conclusion

Adaptive slice‐specific compensation gradients between echoes substantially improved the SNR of maps, and the signal could also be rephased in anatomical areas, where it has already been completely dephased.
An efficient transient‐state algorithm for evaluation of leakage through defective cutoff walls
Authors: Pan Yutao , Hicks Michael A. , Broere Wout
Published: September 2020

Artificial barriers are widely used to prevent leakages. However, due to construction errors during the wall installation, passages with small dimensions may occasionally penetrate through the barrier, undermining its tightness. A three‐dimensional discretized algorithm (TDA) is proposed for quantitatively estimating the transient‐state discharge rate through defective cutoff walls. By discretizing the wall into a three‐dimensional refined mesh grid, the algorithm enables an examination of penetrating passages, an evaluation of defect dimensions, and an estimation of discharge rate through the penetrating passages. A rigorous realization‐by‐realization comparison between the TDA and the finite element method (FEM) was made, and it was found that the TDA results show strong correlations with the FEM results, but at a remarkably lower (1/103‐1/104) computational cost. The TDA generally gives a discharge rate that is 0.1‐1.0 times greater than its FEM counterpart, as the lengthened seepage distance due to random corrugations in the penetrating untreated zone cannot be replicated by the TDA.
Transport analysis in deformable porous media through integral transforms
Authors: Bonazzi Alessandra , Jha Birendra , de Barros Felipe P. J.
Published: September 2020

Geomechanical deformation can alter the flow field that impacts solute mass fluxes. Despite its importance, the effects of the coupling between geomechanical deformation and the flow field on solute transport behavior are not fully known. In this paper, we study the impact of this coupling on the solute concentration distribution. The concentration field is semianalytically derived by making use of the generalized integral transform technique. We apply the semianalytical solution to two uniaxial consolidation problems, the classical Terzaghi's problem with a constant load and the case of periodic loading of a porous deformable layer. Our results indicate that geomechanical parameters, such as the Skempton's coefficient and the soil compressibility, can affect the peak concentration as well as the spatial moments of solute plume. In case of periodic loading, we show that the frequency of loading also plays a key role in regulating the temporal dynamics of the concentration field.
On minimizing downside risk in make‐to‐stock, risk‐averse firms
Authors: Li Bo , Arreola‐Risa Antonio
Published: September 2020

Consider a single‐product, make‐to‐stock, risk‐averse firm with stochastic demand and manufacturing capacity. Temporarily unfilled demands are back‐ordered. Total cost is equal to the sum of inventory‐holding and back‐ordering costs over a continuous‐time, finite planning horizon. In this article, we study the problem of finding the base‐stock level that minimizes total cost conditional value‐at‐risk (CVaR), or total cost CVaR for short. We demonstrate that total cost CVaR is both convex in the base‐stock level and increasing in risk aversion. We derive a closed‐form approximation of total cost which is asymptotically exact in the planning horizon length. The approximation leads to a relatively simple determination of optimal base‐stock levels which are reasonably accurate for practical applications. We make observations and identify findings regarding the impact on optimal base‐stock levels of changes in risk aversion, manufacturing capacity, inventory‐holding and back‐ordering costs, and planning horizon length. We provide a detailed description of how our research results were applied in a real‐world, supply‐chain design project.
Revisiting the Evidence for the Reuse of Enteral Feeding Equipment in Ambulatory Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Osland Emma J. , Andersen Sarah , Coleman Emma , Marshall Belinda
Published: September 2020

Background

The reuse of enteral tube feeding (ETF) equipment is not recommended due to the risk of microbial contamination and subsequent risk of infection; however, this practice continues in many ambulatory settings. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to review the evidence underpinning the cleaning and reuse of ETF equipment.

Methods

Studies that investigated the reuse, decontamination, and/or cleaning of ETF equipment were considered for inclusion. Electronic databases were searched (no limits were placed on date of publication, age, or duration of reuse). Extracted data were assessed using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) and reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses recommendations.

Results

Ten studies met inclusion criteria: 3 investigated changes to clinical outcomes with extending reuse from 24 to ≤72 hours using water rinses; 5 considered the efficacy of various cleaning methods assessed in laboratory conditions; 2 used a combination of both approaches. Sufficient data to allow GRADE assessment was found only for bottle‐type containers.

Conclusions

A very low level of evidence supports the cleaning and reuse of rigid and "unspecified" bottle containers; no studies were found to inform the reuse of syringes used for bolus feeding or any equipment used for water infusion or flushes. There is an absence of literature evaluating the safety and clinical outcomes of cleaning and reusing ETF equipment, and research is required to support equipment reuse.
A simple Galerkin meshless method, the Fragile Points method using point stiffness matrices, for 2D linear elastic problems in complex domains with crack and rupture propagation
Authors: Yang Tian , Dong Leiting , Atluri Satya N.
Published: September 2020

The Fragile Points method (FPM) is an elementarily simple Galerkin meshless method, employing Point‐based discontinuous trial and test functions only, without using element‐based trial and test functions. In this study, the algorithmic formulations of FPM for linear elasticity are given in detail, by exploring the concepts of point stiffness matrices and numerical flux corrections. Advantages of FPM for simulating the deformations of complex structures, and for simulating complex crack propagations and rupture developments, are also thoroughly discussed. Numerical examples of deformation and stress analyses of benchmark problems, as well as of realistic structures with complex geometries, demonstrate the accuracy, efficiency, and robustness of the proposed FPM. Simulations of crack initiation and propagations are also given in this study, demonstrating the advantages of the present FPM in modeling complex rupture and fracture phenomena. The crack and rupture propagation modeling in FPM is achieved without remeshing or augmenting the trial functions as in standard, extended, or generalized finite element method. The simulation of impact, penetration, and other extreme problems by FPM will be discussed in our future articles.
Buprenorphine is a weak dopamine releaser relative to heroin, but its pretreatment attenuates heroin‐evoked dopamine release in rats
Authors: Isaacs Dominic P. , Leman Ryan P. , Everett Thomas J. , Lopez‐Beltran Hendrick , Hamilton Lindsey R. , Oleson Erik B.
Published: September 2020

Aims

The United States of America is currently in an opioid epidemic. Heroin remains the most lethal opioid option with its death rate increasing by over 500% in the last decade. The rewarding and reinforcing effects of heroin are thought to be mediated by its ability to increase dopamine concentration in the nucleus accumbens shell. By activating Gi/o‐coupled μ‐opioid receptors, opioids are thought to indirectly excite midbrain dopamine neurons by removing an inhibitory GABAergic tone. The partial μ‐opioid receptor agonist buprenorphine is a substitution‐based therapy for heroin dependence that is thought to produce a steady‐state level of μ‐opioid receptor activation. But it remains unclear how buprenorphine alters dopamine release relative to heroin and how buprenorphine alters the dopamine‐releasing effects of heroin. Because buprenorphine is a partial agonist at the μ‐opioid receptor and heroin is a full agonist, we predicted that buprenorphine would function as a weak dopamine releaser relative to heroin, while functioning as a competitive antagonist if administered in advance of heroin.

Methods

We performed fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry in awake and behaving rats to measure how heroin, buprenorphine HCl, and their combination affect transient dopamine release events in the nucleus accumbens shell. We also performed a complimentary pharmacokinetic analysis comparing opioid plasma levels at time points correlated to our neurochemical findings.

Results

Both buprenorphine and heroin produced changes in the frequency of transient dopamine release events, although the effect of buprenorphine was weak and only observed at a low dose. In comparison with vehicle, the frequency of dopamine release events maximally increased by ~25% following buprenorphine treatment and by ~60% following heroin treatment. Distinct neuropharmacological effects were observed in the high‐dose range. The frequency of dopamine release events increased linearly with heroin dose but biphasically with buprenorphine dose. We also found that buprenorphine pretreatment occluded the dopamine‐releasing effects of heroin, but plasma levels of buprenorphine had returned to baseline at this time point.

Conclusion

These findings support the notion that low‐dose buprenorphine is a weak dopamine releaser relative to heroin and that buprenorphine pretreatment can block the dopamine‐releasing effects of heroin. The finding that high‐dose buprenorphine fails to increase dopamine release might explain its relatively low abuse potential among opioid‐dependent populations. Because high‐dose buprenorphine decreased dopamine release before occluding heroin‐evoked dopamine release, and buprenorphine was no longer detected in plasma, we conclude that the mechanisms through which buprenorphine blocks heroin‐evoked dopamine release involve multifaceted pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions.
Efficient approximation algorithm for the Schrödinger–Possion system
Authors: He Xuefei , Wang Kun
Published: September 2020

In this article, we study an efficient approximation algorithm for the Schrödinger–Possion system arising in the resonant tunneling diode (RTD) structure. By following the classical Gummel iterative procedure, we first decouple this nonlinear system and prove the convergence of the iteration method. Then via introducing a novel spatial discrete method, we solve efficiently the decoupled Schrödinger and Possion equations with discontinuous coefficients on no‐uniform meshes at each iterative step, respectively. Compared with the traditional ones, the algorithm considered here not only has a less restriction on the discrete mesh, but also is more accurate. Finally, some numerical experiments are shown to confirm the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Community stakeholders’ perspectives regarding acceptability of a life skills building intervention to empower women in Pakistan
Authors: Ali Tazeen Saeed , Karmaliani Rozina , Shah Nasim Zahid , Bhamani Shireen Shehzad , Khuwaja Hussain Maqbool Ahmed , McFarlane Judith , Wadani Zahid Hyder , Kulane Asli
Published: September 2020

Violence against women (VAW) is a major determinant in the assessment of a women's mental health. Many interventions have addressed strategies to reduce VAW, however, little information is available regarding effectiveness in the local context, particularly the role of men in women's empowerment. In Pakistan, a qualitative approach was undertaken in all four of its provinces to describe the community residents’, both men and women, perceptions regarding the acceptability of a proposed life skills building (LSB) intervention involving men's engagement with regards to women's empowerment and VAW. Eighteen focus group discussions were conducted with men and women from locales within each province of Pakistan, averaging 6–10 participants per group. Fourteen key informant interviews were conducted with community stakeholders. The analysis identified three major themes: family life and male engagement, LSB training as an empowerment tool, and operationalization of the proposed LSB intervention. The proposed LSB intervention was well accepted by the participants with a strong urge to engage men in receiving the LSB training sessions. Men's engagement has been identified as an important element to facilitate women's empowerment. Participants suggested that these sessions should be held for two and a half hours per week within the community public spaces. In addition, these sessions should be based on an interactive approach. The focus of these sessions should include ideas surrounding positive relationships and economic skills building. Moreover, men's engagement will help to reduce VAW and improve the mental health of women in a patriarchal country like Pakistan.
The relationship between abdominal fat and change in left ventricular ejection fraction in cancer patients
Authors: Reding Kerryn W. , Ghemigian Khristine , Carbone Salvatore , D'Agostino Ralph , Jordan Jennifer H. , Meléndez Giselle , Lamar Zanetta S. , Klepin Heidi D. , Thomas Alexandra , Langford Dale , Vasu Sujethra , Hundley W. Gregory
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Prior studies have identified a relationship between body mass index (BMI) and intraperitoneal (IP) fat with heart failure; however, in prior studies of cancer patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic chemotherapy, elevations in BMI have not necessarily been associated with decrements in heart function. This study tested the hypothesis that IP fat may be associated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) decline among cancer patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic chemotherapy.

Methods

In this prospective study of 61 cancer patients (23 breast cancer, 32 lymphoma, and 6 sarcoma), IP fat and other assessments of body composition, and changes in LVEF from pre‐ to postcancer treatment using noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging was ascertained.

Results

After accounting for age, baseline LVEF, and confounding variables, pre‐ to 24‐month post‐treatment LVEF changes were inversely correlated with IP fat (r = −0.33; p = 0.02) and positively correlated with measures of subcutaneous (SQ) fat (r = 0.33; p = 0.01). These LVEF changes were not correlated with BMI (r = 0.12; p = 0.37).

Conclusion

Among patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic chemotherapy, pretreatment IP fat was associated with subsequent declines in LVEF. There was no association between BMI and LVEF decline. These findings may be related to a potential protective effect of SQ fat.
Mediating role of growth needs and job satisfaction on talent sustainability in BPOs and call centres: An evidence from India
Authors: Kushwaha Bijay Prasad , Tyagi Vikas , Sharma Pardeep Bawa , Singh Raj Kumar
Published: September 2020

The productivity and growth of an organization depend on the attrition rate of its workforce. The low workforce attrition rate increases the competency of an organization. Although there are numerous studies on employee retention, human resource managers are still struggling to hold their employees for a longer time. This paper studies the mediating role of growth needs and job satisfaction on independent construct deficiency needs and dependent construct talent retention for talent sustainability. The judgemental sampling technique was adopted to interview 414 employees of different BPOs and Call Centres situated in Delhi NCR through a self‐administered questionnaire. Mediation analysis was performed with the help of Smart PLS‐SEM 3.0. The deficiency needs have an insignificant impact on talent retention, whereas the path deficiency needs, mediated by growth needs and job satisfaction, have a greater and significant impact on talent retention. Finding suggests that growth needs and job satisfaction help to retain talented employees.
Fabrication of nanodiamonds modified with hyaluronic acid and chlorin e6 for selective photothermal and photodynamic tumor therapy
Authors: Yun Tae Hoon , Ahn Guk‐Young , Choi Inseong , Bae Yeon‐Ju , Hwang Keum‐Cheol , Kang Suk‐Hoon , Choi Sung‐Wook
Published: September 2020

Nanodiamond (ND)‐based nanoparticles with hyaluronic acid (HA) and chlorin e6 (Ce6) were fabricated for potential photodynamic and photothermal tumor therapy. The ND nanoparticles conjugated with HA and Ce6 (Ce6‐ND@HA) had a suitable size range about 130 nm and high zeta‐potential about −35 mV. The conjugation was confirmed by UV‐vis spectroscopy and the conjugation efficiency of Ce6 in these ND nanoparticles was quantified by fluorescence emission spectrum. HeLa and NIH/3T3 cell lines were used as model cells in order to evaluate the performance of ND, ND nanoparticles with HA (ND@HA), and Ce6‐ND@HA. The ND@HA and Ce6‐ND@HA nanoparticles had a selective uptake for HeLa cells due to the presence of HA. In addition, Ce6‐ND@HA nanoparticles had a high cell ablation effect for HeLa cells due to the temperature increase caused by ND and singlet oxygen generation caused by Ce6. These results suggest that Ce6‐ND@HA particles might have potential for targeted anti‐tumor treatment.
New cyanopyridine‐based π‐conjugative poly(azomethine)s: Synthesis, characterization and electroluminescence studies
Authors: Pilicode Naveenchandra , Naik Praveen , Nimith K. M. , Acharya Madhukara , Satyanarayan M. N. , Adhikari Airody Vasudeva
Published: September 2020

Four new Schiff‐base type conjugative polymers (CPs), that is, Py1‐4 carrying a strong electron‐withdrawing cyanopyridine scaffold coupled with different electron‐donating aromatic/heteroaromatic moieties were synthesized from their respective co‐monomers by simple poly‐condensation route. They were subjected to structural, thermal, photophysical, and electrochemical characterizations and theoretical investigations in order to identify their suitability in polymer light‐emitting diode (PLED) application. All these polymers showed good film‐forming ability and exhibited favorable photophysical behaviors with an optical bandgap in the order of 2.54‐2.68 eV. Further, their electrochemical data were used to evaluate highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) levels. Finally, Py1‐4 were successfully employed as blue‐light emitter in the construction of new ITO/PEDOT:PSS/ Py1‐4/Al configured light‐emitting diodes (LED), and the fabricated devices demonstrated stable blue electroluminescence behavior endorsing an effective electrons injection in the PLEDs.
Biofiber‐reinforced polymeric hybrid composites: An overview on mechanical and tribological performance
Authors: Chandgude Swapnil , Salunkhe Sachin
Published: September 2020

This article presents a thorough review of biofiber‐based hybrid composites along with the discussion on its mechanical and tribological performance in the polymeric matrix. Emphasis is centered on plant fibers as animal fibers are not frequently used and mineral fibers possess serious health issues. All five types of plant fibers and their hybrids are reviewed. Hybridization of plant fibers synergetically combines individual benefits while eliminating the limitations of single fiber use. Study regarding fiber origin, processability and extraction techniques, composition, chemical surface treatments, and applications are presented. Finally, the results obtained are summarized and future developments are discussed. The review concludes that biofiber hybrid composites possess great potential in several applications provided that satisfies design constraints and polymeric matrix compatibility issues.
Comparative pharmacokinetics of Ding‐Zhi‐Xiao‐Wan preparation and its single herbs in rats by using a putative multiple‐reaction monitoring UPLC‐MS/MS method
Authors: Sun Yufei , He Yang , Liu Shuxin , Gao Hongxue , Pi Zifeng , Song Fengrui , Liu Zhiqiang , Liu Shu
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The formula of Chinese medicine, Ding‐Zhi‐Xiao‐Wan (DZXW), has the distinct feature of compatibility therapy, which is attributed to the interactions of multi‐herbs. However, the quantification problem caused by the absence of pure reference standards is a bottleneck to clarify the compatibility advantages from the perspective of pharmacokinetics (PKs).

Objective

This study aimed to develop a putative multiple‐reaction monitor (PMRM) strategy for exploring the comparative PKs of DZXW and its single herbs.

Methods

First, precursor ion and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) chromatograms were obtained via ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight MS (UHPLC–Q‐TOF‐MS) under different collision energy (CE) values. Then, the two most abundance ions in the MS/MS chromatograms were chosen as product ions, and CE values were selected according to the abundance of the product ion peaks. Next, a PMRM strategy consisting of optimal MRM parameters was constructed. Finally, the established PMRM parameters were imported to UHPLC coupled with triple quadrupole MS (UHPLC–TQ‐MS) for quantification.

Results

The strategy was exemplified by the comparative PK study of DZXW and its single herbs. This strategy could extend the PK scopes of multi‐components. The quantitative results displayed substantial variations in PK parameters between DZXW and its single herbs.

Conclusion

The PK parameters indicated that the DZXW formula could increase the exposure levels of most ingredients and reduce the maximum concentration (Cmax) of Radix Polygala, indicating that herb compatibility could produce synergistic effects and diminish possible toxic effects. This study provides a viable orientation for the compatibility investigation of traditional Chinese medicine.
The dynamic relationship between state mindfulness and negative emotions
Authors: Zhou Linli , Zhang Ning , Zhou Yuyang , Xu Wei
Published: September 2020

The current study examines the dynamic influence of state mindfulness on negative emotions in daily life, and we developed two models to investigate their dynamic relationship after controlling the role of perceived stress. One hundred participants recruited from a Chinese university reported their daily and momentary emotions and their levels of state mindfulness five times per day for an entire week. Participants provided 3,177 valid responses, accounting for 90.77% of all required responses. Using a multilevel model, we found that (a) state mindfulness at Time t + 1 mediated the association between negative emotions at t and at t + 2, and the negative emotions encompasses three aspects (anxiety, depression, and sadness), and (b) negative emotion at t + 1 significantly mediated the association between state mindfulness at t and at t + 2. The current study showed that state mindfulness and negative emotions could reciprocally weaken each other, meaning that they demonstrate a counterproductive relationship.
Genotypes versus phenotypes: The potential paradigm shift in the diagnosis and management of pediatric neoplasms
Authors: Chi‐Fung Chan Godfrey , Matias Chan Carol
Published: September 2020

The gold standard of cancer diagnosis has long been based on histological characteristics. With the rapid advancement of genetic medicine, such standard algorithm of diagnostic approach is facing a challenge. The genetic findings have been changed from being a “supporting character” into the role of a “main character”. More and more disease diagnosis and classification has to be defined by genetic basis. In this article, we focus on the challenges in the field of pediatric oncology. We cited 2 scenarios where genetic information plays a pivotal role in identifying the underlying pathology. The first scenario is that same genetic mutation can lead to variable clinical phenotypes, this includes EWSR1‐PATZ1 fusion related neoplasms; BCOR neoplasms; and GATA‐2 deficiency related immunodeficiency and myelodysplastic syndrome. Another scenario is relatively more common that is the same clinical and histopathological phenotype with different underlying genotypes. The genotypes actually impact on the treatment response and outcome. We used medulloblastoma as an example. In fact, we can also find similar scenario in many pediatric cancers such as Ewing sarcoma, ependymoma, etc. The essence of this article is to remind clinicians of the rapid development in genetic medicine and it has been reshaping the landscape of the modern disease classification and therapeutic approach. In the near future, it may even lead to a paradigm shift in our disease diagnostic algorithm.
Treatment and outcomes of 1041 pediatric patients with neuroblastoma who received multidisciplinary care in China
Authors: Su Yan , Qin Hong , Chen Chenghao , Wang Shengcai , Zhang Shihan , Zhang Dawei , Jin Mei , Peng Yun , He Lejian , Wang Xiaoman , Qian Suyun , Qin Maoquan , Ge Ming , Zhang Fuquan , Zeng Qi , Wang Huanmin , Ma Xiaoli , Ni Xin
Published: September 2020

Importance

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial malignant solid tumor in children. Multidisciplinary care is critical to improving the survival of pediatric patients with neuroblastoma.

Objective

To systematically summarize the clinical characteristics of children with neuroblastoma and evaluate their prognosis with multidisciplinary care provided in a single center.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the clinical data of 1041 patients with neuroblastoma who were diagnosed, treated, and followed‐up in the Hematology‐Oncology Center of Beijing Children’s Hospital from 2007 to 2019.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 34 months; 80.8% of the patients were younger than 5 years of age. Notably, 243 patients (23.3%) were classified as low‐risk, 249 patients (23.9%) were classified as intermediate‐risk, and 549 (52.7%) were classified as high‐risk. Furthermore, 956 patients underwent surgical resections; 986 (94.7%) patients received chemotherapy; and 176 patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) rate was 91.3% and 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 97.5% in low‐risk group; in the intermediate‐risk group, these rates were 85.1% and 96.7%, respectively, while they were 37.7% and 48.9% in the high‐risk group (P < 0.001 for both). The 5‐year EFS and OS rates were significantly higher in patients diagnosed between 2015 and 2019 than in patients diagnosed between 2007 and 2014 (P < 0.001). In total, 278 patients (26.7%) exhibited tumor relapse or progression; the median interval until relapse or progression was 14 months. Of the 233 patients who died, 83% died of relapse or progression of neuroblastoma and 4.3% died of therapy‐related complications.

Interpretation

The 5‐year OS rate was low in high‐risk patients, compared with low‐and intermediate‐risk patients. Multidisciplinary care is critical for improvement of survival in pediatric patients with neuroblastoma. Additional treatment strategies should be sought to improve the prognosis of patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma.
Dosimetric comparison of tomotherapy and volumetric‐modulated arc therapy for children with neuroblastoma
Authors: Liu Xia , Liu Zhikai , Pang Tingtian , Dong Tingting , Qiu Jie
Published: September 2020

Importance

Irradiation treatment for pediatric patients with neuroblastoma represents a major challenge due to the pediatric dose limits for critical structures and the necessity of sufficient dose coverage of the clinical target volume for local control.

Objective

To investigate dosimetric differences between tomotherapy (TOMO) and volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) as retroperitoneal radiotherapy for children with neuroblastoma.

Methods

Eight patients who received retroperitoneal radiotherapy for neuroblastoma were selected for comparison of TOMO and VMAT treatment plans. The Dmin, Dmax, Dmean, D95, D2, and D98 of planning target volume (PTV), conformity index (CI), heterogeneity index (HI), and organs at risk (OARs) parameters were compared. Delivery machine unit (MU) and image‐guide radiotherapy solution results were also compared.

Results

All patients received a cumulative dose of 19.5 Gy to the PTV. VMAT showed higher CI (0.93 ± 0.02), compared with TOMO (0.87 ± 0.03, P < 0.001). Notably, the average PTV HI was significantly better using TOMO (1.05 ± 0.01) than VMAT (1.08 ± 0.02, P = 0.003). Compared with VMAT, the Dmin, D95, and D98 all exhibited increases in TOMO; Dmax variation was less than 1% in TOMO. The D0.1cc for the spinal cord and D2cc for the small intestine were better in TOMO in terms of OARs. However, TOMO had more MUs and required a longer delivery time.

Interpretation

Both planning techniques are capable of producing high‐ quality treatment plans. TOMO is superior for PTV coverage, but inferior for CI. TOMO requires extra treatment time; its cost is greater than the cost of VMAT.
Clinical features and predictors of remission in children under the age of 7 years with Graves’ disease
Authors: Gu Yi , Liang Xuejun , Liu Ming , Wu Di , Li Wenjing , Cao Bingyan , Li Yuchuan , Su Chang , Chen Jiajia , Gong Chunxiu
Published: September 2020

Importance

Graves’ disease (GD) is rare in children under the age of 7 years. Children with this disease exhibit greater thyrotoxicity at diagnosis and require a longer course of medical therapy, compared with pubertal and postpubertal children and adults.

Objective

To investigate the clinical features and identify predictors of remission in children under the age of 7 years with GD.

Methods

This retrospective study included 77 children who were diagnosed with GD under the age of 7 years and were treated in the Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Children’s Hospital from 2010 to 2018. Clinical manifestations, laboratory data, and follow‐up records were collected for all patients. Children who achieved remission of treatment with methimazole were compared with those who had persistent disease to identify which variables were associated with remission; multiple logistic regression and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate interactions among predictive variables.

Results

Sixty‐three boys and 14 girls were included; the median age at diagnosis was 4.2 years (interquartile range: 3.2–5.3 years). Forty‐six (56.7%) patients had no family history of thyroid disease, 17 patients had family history of thyroid disease and 14 patients with unknown family history. Of the 77 patients, 18 (23.4%) patients achieved remission of treatment with methimazole and 59 patients did not; moreover, 51 (66.2%) had Graves’ ophthalmopathy. Univariate analyses revealed no significant differences between the remission group and non‐remission group in terms of age at diagnosis, sex, initial goiter size, or initial thyroid hormone concentration. However, there were a trend of correlation between the initial level of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and remission status (univariate analysis OR 1.002, P = 0.038; multivariate analysis OR 1.004, P = 0.019). Similar results were observed in univariate analysis of the initial thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) level, but this association was not significant in multivariate analysis. Cox regression analyses revealed that children with high TRAb level required longer duration of remission, compared with low TRAb level (OR 0.950, 95% CI 0.904–0.997, P = 0.037).

Interpretation

Initial TRAb level was an independent predictor of remission outcome in young children under the age of 7 years with GD. Initial TRAb level may predict the likelihood of remission in patients with young‐age‐of‐onset GD.
Fabrication of foamed polypropylene with excellent behaviors by adding a special foam stabilizer
Authors: Guo Junyi , Zhang Chen , Liang Shengke , Zou Wei
Published: September 2020

Foamed polypropylene (PP) has attracted more and more attention in recent years due to its unique properties, such as heat resistance and high flexural modulus. In this work, foamed PP with excellent properties was successfully fabricated by adding a special foam stabilizer, which was prepared by a simple one‐step strategy using fatty acid and amino silicone oil as reactants. The two‐component stabilizer mixed uniformly with PP and reduced the surface tension during foaming. The foam stabilizer significantly reduced density and cell diameter of the foam. When the amount of foam stabilizer was 1.0 wt%, the density dropped to 0.958 g/cm3, about 2.8% lower vs foam generated without stabilizer. The tensile strength increased to 18.4 MPa from 16.1 MPa, and the elongation at break increased to 495% from 328%.
A comparison of the collagen triple helix and coiled‐coil peptide building blocks on metal ion‐mediated supramolecular assembly
Authors: Curtis Ryan W. , Chmielewski Jean
Published: September 2020

Metal ion‐mediated assembly of peptides is an intriguing method for developing novel biomaterials. In particular, peptide building blocks based on collagen triple helical and coiled‐coil peptides have been functionalized with metal‐binding ligands and assemble into hierarchical structures with diverse potential applications. This review outlines the use of metal‐mediated assembly with these supramolecular structures and highlights how changes in the building blocks lead to significant differences in structural morphologies, with the identity of the metal‐binding ligands and their placement on the building block as crucial aspects in the bottom‐up development of the assemblies.
A new class of poly(ether‐block‐amide)s based on semi‐aromatic polyamide: synthesis, characterization and structure–property relations
Authors: Tong Xin , Peng Wei‐Ming , Zhang Mei‐Ling , Wang Xiao‐Jun , Zhang Gang , Long Sheng‐Ru , Yang Jie
Published: September 2020

A new type of poly(ether‐amide) thermoplastic elastomer (TPAE) was synthesized using poly(decamethylene terephthalamide (10T)/decamethylene isophthalamide) as hard segment and poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segment via an efficient, accessible and low‐pollution melt polymerization method. Thermoplastic elastomer was synthesized based on semi‐aromatic polyamide for the first time. The effects of various compositions of hard segments on the thermal and mechanical properties were investigated. The results show that TPAE synthesized from semi‐aromatic polyamide has excellent thermal stability, the initial decomposition temperature of all samples being between 370 and 378 °C. With an increase of 10T content, crystallization ability of the hard segment increased. As 10T content increased, TPAE changed from amorphous to crystalline, and the melting temperature ranged from 175 to 236 °C. Tensile testing revealed that TPAE had excellent and adjustable mechanical properties, and that tensile strength, elongation at break and elasticity modulus were in the ranges 7–40 MPa, 468–835% and 0.036–1.80 MPa. Furthermore, high‐temperature tensile test results showed that TPAE‐4 still maintained considerable mechanical properties, and had better mechanical properties compared with Pebax® 5533. In particular, TPAE‐4 had higher performance decay point for which elasticity modulus and stress at ε = 500% decreased rapidly when the temperature was higher than 80 °C, this point for Pebax® 5533 appearing at 50 °C. Such outstanding performance indicated that this new class of elastomer has the potential to be used in high‐temperature conditions. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Registration of ‘Curiosity CL+’ soft white winter wheat
Authors: Gill K. S. , Kumar N. , Randhawa H. S. , Carter A. H. , Yenish J. , Morris C. F. , Baik B.‐K. , Higginbotham R. W. , Guy S. O. , Engle D. A. , Chen X. M. , Murray T. D. , Lyon D. J.
Published: September 2020

‘Curiosity CL+’ (Reg. no. CV‐1167, PI 675007; PVP 201500290) is a soft white winter (SWW) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar carrying two‐gene tolerance to imazamox herbicide that was developed and released by the Agricultural Research Center of Washington State University in October 2013. It was tested under the experimental designations EBC2F3‐3‐18 and WA008143. Curiosity CL+ was developed using marker‐assisted background selection involving a cross between ‘Eltan’ and ‘CL0618’. Eltan was a predominant SWW wheat cultivar (released in 1990) in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), whereas CL0618 is an Australian hard red spring line carrying two‐gene mutations conferring herbicide tolerance. Curiosity CL+ carries two mutation alleles (AhasL‐B1 and AhasL‐D1) of acetolactate synthase gene copies on chromosomes 6B and 6D. Curiosity CL+ has high grain‐yield potential, intermediate plant height, and is well adapted to the dryland production areas of the PNW with <300 mm of annual precipitation. Tested in multiple location and years, Curiosity CL+ showed herbicide tolerance equivalent to the two‐gene Clearfield cultivar ‘AP503 CL2’ (PVP 200800322) and higher than the single‐gene Clearfield cultivar ‘ORCF‐102’ (PI 641787). Its end‐use quality is similar to ORCF‐102, ‘Stephens’ (CI 17596), and ‘Xerpha’ (PI 645605). Compared with Eltan, Curiosity CL+ has better stripe rust resistance, whereas the level of snow mold and Cephalosporium stripe tolerance is equal.
Study on the compatibility of modified cyanate ester resin in liquid oxygen
Authors: Fu Gang , Jiao Weicheng , Wang Guan , Gao Tanling , Wu Jianwei , Shao Nan , Wei Yun Zhao , Kuang Hong , He Xiaodong , Wang Rongguo
Published: September 2020

A cyanate ester (CE) resin co‐modified with epoxy (EP) and bismaleimide (BMI) as the continuous phase, and phenolphthalein poly (ether sulfone) (PES‐C) as the dispersed phase were used for developing liquid oxygen (LOX) composite tanks. Gaseous oxygen (GOX) anti‐oxidation, LOX impact sensitivity, ductility, and cycle durability is a critical index for materials in LOX applications. Added components significantly improved material ductility at low temperature versus neat CE resin because of microstructure changes. However, improvement in thermal resistance was not achieved without tradeoffs; the addition of BMI improved thermal resistance but decreased durability. The failure mechanism of a tank containing GOX was related to reaction with oxygen. LOX impact sensitivity (IRS) is associated with anti‐oxidation and flaming retardance of the samples. Micro‐domains tended to separate from the continuous phase more during the LOX impact test versus the GOX test and was accompanied by increasing ductility and anti‐oxidation. Cycle durability was affected more by the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion between the continuous and PES‐C phases rather than immersion time. In summary, CE resin (CYEP6BM5) co‐modified with PES‐C, EP, and BMI showed good LOX compatibility including IRS value of 2%, 19 cycles durability, and flaming retardance of UL94V0 and may be applied for LOX composite tanks.
Local Anesthesia Prior to Ultrasound‐Guided Hip Joint Injections: A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial of Bacteriostatic Saline versus Buffered Lidocaine
Authors: Kruse Ryan C. , Kindle Brett J. , Wisniewski Steve , Presley James , Smith Jay , Sellon Jacob L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Ultrasound (US)‐guided hip joint injections are commonly performed for patients with suspected or known intra‐articular hip pain. Lidocaine is a well‐established local anesthetic used prior to hip joint injections, but it is often associated with discomfort during infiltration. Bacteriostatic saline is an alternative local anesthetic that has been shown to be less painful during infiltration for superficial injections.

Objective

To compare infiltrative pain and anesthetic efficacy of bacteriostatic saline (0.9% benzyl alcohol) with a standard local anesthetic (buffered 1% lidocaine) used for local anesthesia prior to US‐guided intra‐articular hip corticosteroid injections.

Design

Double‐blinded, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Tertiary care medical center.

Participants

Sixty eight patients age 18‐80 (mean 54.8) years referred for US‐guided intra‐articular hip corticosteroid injections.

Intervention

Patients were randomized to receive a US‐guided hip joint corticosteroid injection using either bacteriostatic saline or buffered 1% lidocaine for preinjection local anesthesia.

Main Outcome Measures

Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain (0‐100) during local anesthetic infiltration as well as during the intra‐articular injection. Adverse events were also recorded.

Results

There were no significant differences between bacteriostatic saline and buffered lidocaine with respect to pain during local anesthetic infiltration or during the subsequent intra‐articular injection. Pain VAS during local anesthetic infiltration was 13.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.8, 18.5) in the bacteriostatic saline group and 14.0 (95% CI 9.4, 18.5) in the buffered 1% lidocaine group (P = .82). Furthermore, pain VAS during the intra‐articular injection was 20.7 (95% CI 14.1, 27.3) in the bacteriostatic saline group and 15.7 (95% CI 10.9, 20.3) in the buffered 1% lidocaine group (P = .57). No adverse events occurred.

Conclusions

Bacteriostatic saline is a safe and comparably effective alternative to buffered 1% lidocaine for local anesthesia before US‐guided hip joint injections and may be considered for subcutaneous/periarticular anesthesia during similar musculoskeletal procedures.
Predicting novel strong acids of plumbylene at theoretical levels
Authors: Mohebi Nazanin , Kassaee Mohamad Z.
Published: September 2020

We have reached at new acyclic plumbylenes which show high acidity, via B3LYP, Def2‐TZVP, MP2, and wB97XD functionals. Our scrutinized plumbylenes include dicyclopropaplumbylene (1), dicyclopentaplumbylene (2), dicycloheptaplumbylene (3), and their unsaturated analogs (1’‐3’, respectively). All scrutinized plumbylenes and their corresponding protonated forms, 1H(1’H)‐3H(3’H), appear as minima on their energy surfaces. The conductor‐like polarizable continuum model (CPCM) and integral equation formalism polarized continuum model (IEFPCM) are used to predict the pka values for electrophilic plumbylenes, 1(1’)‐3(3’), in chloroform and water. In most cases, plumbylenes turn out as strong acids for showing relatively high negative pka values. The acidity trend of plumbylenes (pka) appears consistent with their proton affinity (PA), electrophilicity (ω), nucleophilicity (N), Mulliken electronegativity (
), absolute chemical hardness (ηabs), singlet‐triplet energy gap (ΔEs‐t), and highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy gap (ΔEH‐L). Structure 1, with two cyclopropyl groups, turns out as the most acidic specie in chloroform and water.
Plasma‐based VAD process for multiply doped glass powders and high‐performance fiber preforms with outstanding homogeneity
Authors: Trautvetter Tom , Schäfer Jan , Benzine Omar , Methling Ralf , Baierl Hardy , Reichel Volker , Dellith Jan , Köpp Daniel , Hempel Frank , Stankov Marjan , Baeva Margarita , Foest Rüdiger , Wondraczek Lothar , Wondraczek Katrin , Bartelt Hartmut
Published: September 2020

An innovative approach using the vapor axial deposition (VAD), for the preparation of silica‐based high‐power fiber laser preforms, is described in this study. The VAD uses a plasma deposition system operating at atmospheric pressure, fed by a single, chemically adapted solution containing precursors of laser‐active dopants (e.g., Yb2O3), glass‐modifier species (e.g., Al2O3), and the silica matrix. The approach enables simultaneous doping with multiple optically active species and overcomes some of the current technological limitations encountered with well‐established fiber preform technologies in terms of dopant distribution, doping levels, and achievable active core diameter. The deposition of co‐doped silica with outstanding homogeneity is proven by Raman spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis. Yb2O3 concentrations are realized up to 0.3 mol% in SiO2, with simultaneous doping of 3 mol% of Al2O3.