bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical Analysis of a 2D Metallic/Semiconducting Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenide NbS2//WSe2 Hybrid Interface
Authors: Golsanamlou Zahra , Sementa Luca , Cusati Teresa , Iannaccone Giuseppe , Fortunelli Alessandro
Published: October 2020

A first‐principles theoretical study of a monolayer‐thick lateral heterostructure (LH) joining two different transition metal dichalcogenides, NbS2 and WSe2, is reported. The NbS2//WSe2 LH can be considered a prototypical example of a metal (NbS2)/semiconductor (WSe2) 2D hybrid heterojunction. First, realistic atomistic models of the NbS2//WSe2 LH are generated and validated, its band structure is derived, and it is subjected to a fragment decomposition and electrostatic potential analysis to extract a simple but quantitative model of this interfacial system. Stoichiometric fluctuations models are also investigated and found not to alter the qualitative picture. Then, electron transport simulations are conducted and they are analyzed via band alignment analysis. It is concluded that the NbS2//WSe2 LH appears as a robust seamless in‐plane 2D modular junction for potential use in optoelectronic devices going beyond the present miniaturization technology.
Catalytic Oxidation of Methane to Oxygenated Products: Recent Advancements and Prospects for Electrocatalytic and Photocatalytic Conversion at Low Temperatures
Authors: Sher Shah Md. Selim Arif , Oh Cheoulwoo , Park Hyesung , Hwang Yun Jeong , Ma Ming , Park Jong Hyeok
Published: October 2020

Methane is an important fossil fuel and widely available on the earth's crust. It is a greenhouse gas that has more severe warming effect than CO2. Unfortunately, the emission of methane into the atmosphere has long been ignored and considered as a trivial matter. Therefore, emphatic effort must be put into decreasing the concentration of methane in the atmosphere of the earth. At the same time, the conversion of less valuable methane into value‐added chemicals is of significant importance in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Although, the transformation of methane to valuable chemicals and fuels is considered the “holy grail,” the low intrinsic reactivity of its CH bonds is still a major challenge. This review discusses the advancements in the electrocatalytic and photocatalytic oxidation of methane at low temperatures with products containing oxygen atom(s). Additionally, the future research direction is noted that may be adopted for methane oxidation via electrocatalysis and photocatalysis at low temperatures.
What Do you Mean by “Informed Consent”? Ethics in Economic Development Research†
Authors: Josephson Anna , Smale Melinda
Published: October 2020

The ethical conduct of research requires the informed consent and voluntary participation of research participants. Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) work to ensure that these ethical standards are met. However, incongruities in perspective and practice exist across regions. In this article, we focus on informed consent as practiced by agricultural and applied economists, with emphasis on research conducted in low income and/or developing countries. IRB regulations are clear but heterogeneous, emphasizing process rather than outcome. The lack of IRBs and institutional reviews in some contexts and the particulars of the principles employed in others may fail to adequately protect research participants.
Doped Conjugated Polymer Enclosing a Redox Polymer: Wiring Polyquinones with Poly(3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene)
Authors: Ajjan Fatima Nadia , Khan Ziyauddin , Riera-Galindo Sergi , Lienemann Samuel , Vagin Mikhail , Petsagkourakis Ioannis , Gabrielsson Roger , Braun Slawomir , Fahlman Mats , Inganäs Olle , Berggren Magnus , Crispin Xavier
Published: October 2020

The mass implementation of renewable energies is limited by the absence of efficient and affordable technology to store electrical energy. Thus, the development of new materials is needed to improve the performance of actual devices such as batteries or supercapacitors. Herein, the facile consecutive chemically oxidative polymerization of poly(1‐amino‐5‐chloroanthraquinone) (PACA) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT) resulting in a water dispersible material PACA‐PEDOT is shown. The water‐based slurry made of PACA‐PEDOT nanoparticles can be processed as film coated in ambient atmosphere, a critical feature for scaling up the electrode manufacturing. The novel redox polymer electrode is a nanocomposite that withstands rapid charging (16 A g−1) and delivers high power (5000 W kg−1). At lower current density its storage capacity is high (198 mAh g−1) and displays improved cycling stability (60% after 5000 cycles). Its great electrochemical performance results from the combination of the redox reversibility of the quinone groups in PACA that allows a high amount of charge storage via Faradaic reactions and the high electronic conductivity of PEDOT to access to the redox‐active sites. These promising results demonstrate the potential of PACA‐PEDOT to make easily organic electrodes from a water‐coating process, without toxic metals, and operating in non‐flammable aqueous electrolyte for large scale pseudocapacitors.
Virtually estimated endocranial volumes of the Krapina Neandertals
Authors: Cofran Zachary , Boone Madeleine , Petticord Marisa
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The Krapina rock shelter has yielded a large assemblage of early Neandertals. Although endocranial volume (ECV) has been estimated for four individuals from the site, several published values that appear in the literature warrant revisiting.

Materials and Methods

We used virtual methods, including high‐resolution surface models of fossils and 3D geometric morphometrics, to reconstruct endocasts and estimate ECV for five Krapina crania. We generated 10 reconstructions of each endocast to quantify missing data uncertainty. To assess the method and our ECV estimates, we applied these techniques to the Spy II Neandertal, and estimated ECV of a human reference endocast simulating the missing data of the Krapina fossils.

Results

We obtained an average ECV estimate of 1,526 cm3 for Spy II, consistent with previous research. Estimated ECV of juveniles Krapina 1 and 2 average 1,419 and 1,286 cm3, respectively. Estimates for the relatively complete adults Krapina 3 and 6 range from 1,247 to 1,310 cm3 and 1,135 to 1,207 cm3, respectively, while the more fragmentary Krapina 5 averaged 1,397 cm3. The missing data simulation suggests more fragmentary crania yield more uncertain and possibly overestimated ECVs.

Conclusions

We have provided new estimates of brain size of the Krapina Neandertals, including the first estimates for Krapina 2. Brain size at Krapina was similar to other pre‐Würm Neandertals, within the range of but lower than the average of later Neandertals. Although the virtual approach overcomes many challenges of fossil preservation, our results are nevertheless subject to future revision.
Highly‐modified polylactide transparent blends with better heat‐resistance, melt strength, toughness and stiffness balance due to the compatibilization and chain extender effects of methacrylate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate copolymer
Authors: Jiang Yujun , Li Zhaokun , Song Shixin , Sun Shulin , Li Quanming
Published: October 2020

A core‐shell modifier with the cross‐linked acrylate and silicone copolymer as the core and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the shell (PASi‐g‐PMMA) was used to toughen the brittle polylactide (PLA). In addition, the copolymer of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) (MG) was utilized to further enhance the modification efficiency of the PASi‐g‐PMMA. The MG copolymer played the double roles of compatibilizer and chain extender, which not only improved the interfacial adhesion between the PLA and PASi‐g‐PMMA particles, but also increased the molecular weight and chain entanglement of the PLA. Compared with the PASi‐g‐PMMA toughened PLA blend, the PLA/PASi‐g‐PMMA/MG blends showed much higher heat‐resistance, melt strength, transparency, toughness and stiffness balance. When the PASi‐g‐PMMA content was 20 wt%, 20 wt% MG increased the glass transition temperature (Tg), complex viscosity (η*), transparency, impact and tensile strength of PLA/PASi‐g‐PMMA blend from 60.1°C, 1.9 × 103 Pa·s, 76.1%, 748 J/m and 37 MPa to 71.5°C, 0.5 × 104 Pa·s, 78.4%, 860 J/m and 45 MPa for the PLA/PASi‐g‐PMMA/MG blend. This research provided a facile and practical method to overcome the shortcomings of the PLA and promoted its application in broader fields.
Fabrication of superhydrophobic transparent cyclic olefin copolymer (COC)‐SiO2 nanocomposite surfaces
Authors: Doganci Merve Dandan
Published: October 2020

A superhydrophobic cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) nanocomposite coating was produced with a very simple and easy method. Self‐cleaning superhydrophobic COC surfaces were obtained by only adding surface hydrophobized SiO2 nanoparticles by dip coating method. The influence of concentration of SiO2 and the coating temperatures on the wettability of the surfaces were investigated. The surface wettability of the coatings was examined with the contact angle measurements and the surface roughness and morphology were analyzed by using atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscopy analysis. Surfaces with certain amounts of COC and SiO2 showed superhydrophobic character with high water contact angle of 1690. Also, the obtained superhydrophobic surfaces show superior water repellent, high transparency, and self‐cleaning characteristics.
Microparticles and latexes prepared via suspension polymerization of a biobased vegetable oil and renewable carboxylic acid
Authors: Mai Anthony Q. , Davies Jackie , Nguyen Dan , Carranza Arturo , Vincent Michael , Pojman John A.
Published: October 2020

Novel bio‐based microparticles and latexes are synthesized using green chemistry principles through the reaction of aconitic acid (a sugarcane byproduct) and epoxidized linseed oil (ELO). No volatile solvents have been used, and no initiators are present in this polymerization. Using different agitation techniques, we investigate the particles and latexes formed via suspension polymerization in contrast to bulk dispersion polymerization. With the addition of water and a small amount of surfactant to the ELO and aconitic system, a thermally stable material up to 250°C is created that exhibits adhesive and hydrophobic properties. These microparticle latexes are anticipated for applications in hydrophobic coating and personal care products.
Effects of temperature, strain rate, and cyclic loading on mechanical behavior of silane‐modified polyurethane sealant
Authors: Zhang Jun , Shen Hao zhong , Li Hai yu , Gu Liu feng
Published: October 2020

To evaluate the mechanical properties of modified polyurethane sealants in engineering applications, the influences of temperature, strain rate, and cyclic loading on the mechanical properties of silane‐modified polyurethane sealant were experimentally investigated. The monotonic tensile experiments with various strain rates and temperatures were conducted, and strain rate and temperature dependent nonlinear stress–strain curves were obtained. The results showed that the silane‐modified polyurethane sealant exhibited temperature dependence at constant strain rate and rate dependence at room temperature. However, it is shown no obvious rate dependence at temperature of 150°C. In addition, the multi‐step cyclic loading experiments with mean strain decrease and increase at each step were carried out to analyze the influence of cyclic loading and cyclic loading history at different temperatures. The results demonstrated that the viscous behavior of the materials was evidently observed in the first step and disappeared in other steps for the four‐step cyclic loading with mean strain decrease case. Moreover, the cyclic stress relaxation of the materials was not obvious due to the prior cyclic loading with higher mean strain history, while the cyclic stress relaxation of the material continued to occur for the prior cyclic loading with lower mean strain history, and the cyclic strength of the materials decreased with the increase of temperature.
Population status of the endangered giant Mexican limpet Scutellastra mexicana in the central Mexican Pacific
Authors: Valdez‐Cibrián Alejandra , Michel‐Morfín Jesús Emilio , Gómez‐Torres Martín , Landa‐Jaime Víctor , Gómez‐Gastelum Luis , Carballo Jose Luis
Published: October 2020

Scutellastra mexicana is the largest species of giant limpet in the world. This species is distributed along the tropical Mexican Pacific and is now considered extinct in some areas of the region.

In prehispanic Mexico, this limpet was used for food, ornamentation, and in mortuary offerings. More recently, its meat has been highly valued for human consumption. During the 1970s and 1980s, overexploitation of this resource caused the population to decrease drastically.

This study is a report on the population status of the giant Mexican limpet S. mexicana on the Mexican Pacific coast. Free divers explored the rocky southern coast of Jalisco, Mexico, for the presence of specimens. A total of 404 limpets were identified at 18 sampling sites. Their density was estimated to be 0.0012 limpets/m2 with a catch per unit effort of 7.6 limpets/dive hour. Limpet sizes ranged from 5.0 to 23.3 cm in length and from 3.8 to 20.7 cm in width, with a mean shell length of 13.4 cm.

Currently, S. mexicana is under special protection by Mexican laws. However, this species is not listed as endangered by any international wildlife protection and conservation group. This may be due to the lack of information on this species' population dynamics over time in the Mexican Pacific and the lack of interest in this mollusc since it is a non‐charismatic species.
Heterogeneity of Graphite Lithiation in State‐of‐the‐Art Cylinder‐Type Li‐Ion Cells
Authors: Petz Dominik , Mühlbauer Martin J. , Schökel Alexander , Achterhold Klaus , Pfeiffer Franz , Pirling Thilo , Hofmann Michael , Senyshyn Anatoliy
Published: October 2020

The two‐dimensional lithium distribution in the graphite anode was non‐destructively probed by spatially resolved neutron diffraction for a batch consisting of 34 different cylinder‐type (18650) Li‐ion batteries in fully charged state. The uniformity of the lithium distribution was quantified and correlated to the cell specifications/electrochemistry and to intrinsic cell parameters like electrode thickness, position of current collectors, etc. which were obtained by X‐ray micro‐computed tomography. Non‐uniformities in the lithiation state of the anode from a constant plateau have been observed for the majority of the studied cells. Their location corresponds to the positions of current tabs connecting the electrode stripes and areas of incomplete electrode coating at the beginning and the end of the electrode stripes. Four commonly used schemes of current lid connection were identified. Each of them displays its own effect on the uniformity of the lithiation at the anode and, therefore, variation of the intrinsic state‐of‐charge distribution and, most probably, the ageing behavior of the electrodes.
Human immunodeficiency virus‐associated pulmonary sarcoidosis in a Japanese man as a manifestation of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Nakamura Hideta , Tateyama Masao , Tasato Daisuke , Haranaga Shusaku , Higa Futoshi , Matsuzaki Akiko , Yoshimi Naoki , Fujita Jiro
Published: October 2020

Asymptomatic pulmonary sarcoidosis can develop after starting antiretroviral therapy. The decision on whether to treat sarcoidosis with corticosteroids should be based on the disease severity.
Semiparametric isotonic regression modelling and estimation for group testing data
Authors: Yuan Ao , Piao Jin , Ning Jing , Qin Jing
Published: October 2020

In the group testing procedure, several individual samples are grouped and the pooled samples, instead of each individual sample, are tested for outcome status (e.g., infectious disease status). Although this cost‐effectiveness strategy in data collection is both labour and time‐efficient, it poses statistical challenges to derive statistically and computationally efficient estimators under semiparametric models. We consider semiparametric isotonic regression models for the simultaneous estimation of the conditional probability curve and covariate effects, in which a parametric form for combining the covariate information is assumed and the monotonic link function is left unspecified. We develop an expectation–maximization algorithm to overcome the computational challenge and embed the pool‐adjacent violators algorithm in the M‐step to facilitate the computation. We establish the large sample behaviour of the proposed estimators and examine their finite sample performance in simulation studies. We apply the proposed method to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for illustration.
Fabrication of Mn,N‐Codoped Carbon Electrocatalysts from a Cationic Cd(II)‐based MOF Involving Anion‐exchange with MnO4− Anions
Authors: Yuan Jie , Xiao Li , Huang Gao‐Yuan , Yang Jin‐Meng , Zhu Hai‐Bin
Published: October 2020

Mn and N‐codoped carbon materials (Mn−N−C) have recently aroused enormous interest owing to their unique advantages over Fe‐N−C counterparts. Mn−N−C electroactive materials have been conveniently fabricated from a cationic Cd(II)‐based MOF (Cd−TTPBA‐4(TTPBA‐4=N1,N1,N4,N4 ‐tetrakis(4‐(4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐yl)phenyl)benzene‐1,4‐di‐amine) which can effectively and controllably achieve the Mn‐doping through anion‐exchange between the exterior MnO4− anions and its exchangeable ClO4− anions. The anion‐exchanged materials of MnO4−@Cd−TTPBA‐4 were pyrolyzed at 1000 °C followed by acid‐washing and second heat‐treatment to give Mn−N−C electroactive materials with promising oxygen reduction activity. In the alkaline electrolyte, the optimal Mn−N−C material exhibits an outstanding oxygen reduction activity with the onset potential of 0.93 V (vs RHE) and half‐wave potential of 0.82 V (vs RHE), together with a good long‐term stability.
Multigenerational experimental simulation of climate change on an economically important insect pest
Authors: Schneider David , Ramos Alejandra G. , Córdoba‐Aguilar Alex
Published: October 2020

Long‐term multigenerational experimental simulations of climate change on insect pests of economically and socially important crops are crucial to anticipate challenges for feeding humanity in the not‐so‐far future. Mexican bean weevil Zabrotes subfasciatus, is a worldwide pest that attacks the common bean Phaseolus vulgaris seeds, in crops and storage. We designed a long term (i.e., over 10 generations), experimental simulation of climate change by increasing temperature and CO2 air concentration in controlled conditions according to model predictions for 2100. Higher temperature and CO2 concentrations favored pest's egg‐to‐adult development survival, even at high female fecundity. It also induced a reduction of fat storage and increase of protein content but did not alter body size. After 10 generations of simulation, genetic adaptation was detected for total lipid content only, however, other traits showed signs of such process. Future experimental designs and methods similar to ours, are key for studying long‐term effects of climate change through multigenerational experimental designs.
A current and future outlook on upcoming technologies in remote monitoring of patients with heart failure
Authors: Bekfani Tarek , Fudim Marat , Cleland John G.F. , Jorbenadze Ana , von Haehling Stephan , Lorber Avraham , Rothman Alexander M.K. , Stein Kenneth , Abraham William T. , Sievert Horst , Anker Stefan D.
Published: October 2020

Heart failure is a major health and economic challenge in both developing and developed countries. Despite advances in pharmacological and device therapies for patients with a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and heart failure, their quality of life and exercise capacity are often persistently impaired, morbidity and mortality remain high and the health economic and societal costs are considerable. For patients with heart failure and preserved LVEF, diuretic management has an essential role for controlling congestion and symptoms, even if no intervention has convincingly shown to reduce morbidity or mortality. Remote monitoring might improve care delivery and clinical outcomes for patients regardless of LVEF. A great variety of innovative remote monitoring technologies and algorithms are being introduced, including patient self‐managed testing, wearable devices, technologies either integrated into established clinically indicated therapeutic devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, or as stand‐alone are in development providing the promise of further improvements in service delivery and clinical outcomes. In this article, we will discuss unmet needs in the management of patients with heart failure, how remote monitoring might contribute to future solutions, and provide an overview of current and novel remote monitoring technologies.
Numerical investigation of the solute dispersion in finite‐length microchannels with the interphase transport
Authors: Li Wenbo , Zhang Wenyao , Qian Fang , Huang Deng , Wang Qiuwang , Zhao Cunlu
Published: October 2020

This paper utilizes a combined approach of the convection‐diffusion theory and the moment analysis to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the solute dispersion under the influence of the interphase transport in finitely long inner coated microchannels. The present work has threefold novel contributions: (1) The 2D solute concentration contours in the stationary phase are calculated for the first time to facilitate the understanding the role of the interphase transport in the solute dispersion in the mobile phase. (2) The skewness of the elution curves is investigated to guide the control of solute band shape at the channel outlet. (3) The 2D diffusion‐convection theory and zero‐dimensional (0D) moment analysis complement each other to present a characterization of the solute dispersion behaviors more comprehensive than that by either of the two methods alone. Parametric studies are performed to clarify the effects of four major parameters related to the interphase transport (i.e., stationary phase Péclet number, interphase transport rate, partition coefficient, and stationary phase thickness) on the solute dispersion characteristics. The results from this study provide a straightforward understanding of the effects of interphase transport on the solute dispersion in finitely long microchannels and are of potential relevance to the design and operation of the microfluidics‐based analytical devices.
Prognostic significance of the MDM2/HMGA2 ratio and histological tumor grade in dedifferentiated liposarcoma
Authors: Yamashita Kyoko , Kohashi Kenichi , Yamada Yuichi , Akatsuka Shinya , Ikuta Kunihiro , Nishida Yoshihiro , Toyokuni Shinya , Oda Yoshinao
Published: October 2020

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is a relatively common soft tissue sarcoma that results from the progression of well‐differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS). This study aimed to investigate the progression process and to clarify the pathological and genetic factors related to poor prognosis in DDLPS. In 32 DDLPS cases and five WDLPS cases, genetic factors were analyzed by custom comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) array, which was designed to densely cover gene regions known to be frequently amplified in WD/DDLPS. The analyses comparing primary and metastatic lesions and those comparing histologically different areas in the same tumor revealed intra‐tumoral genetic heterogeneity and progression. According to a prognostic analysis comparing the good‐prognosis and the poor‐prognosis groups, we selected MDM2 and HMGA2 as candidate genes associated with poor and good prognosis, respectively. The ratios of the amplification or gain levels of MDM2 and HMGA2 expressed in log ratios (log[MDM2/HMGA2] = log[MDM2]‐log[HMGA2]) were significantly associated with prognosis. An amplification or gain level of MDM2 that was more than twice that of HMGA2 (MDM2/HMGA2 > 2, log[MDM2/HMGA2] > 1) was strongly related to poor OS (P < .001) and poor distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) (P < .001). In the pathological analysis of 44 cases of DDLPS, histological tumor grade, cellular atypia, and MDM2 immunoreactivity were related to overall survival (OS), while HMGA2 immunoreactivity tended to be associated with OS. Cellular atypia was also associated with DMFS. In conclusion, histological grade and MDM2 expression were determined to be prognostically important, and the MDM2/HMGA2 amplification or gain ratio was found to have significant prognostic value by the custom CGH array analysis.
Pygmalion in the pipeline: How managers' perceptions influence racial differences in turnover
Authors: Sabat Isaac E. , Goldberg Caren , King Eden B. , Dawson Jeremy , Zhang Lu
Published: October 2020

High rates of turnover among racial minority employees have largely been explained by the adage that dissimilarity breeds discontent. An unexplored, but potentially powerful driver of turnover, may emerge as a result of supervisors' and employees' own beliefs about minority employees' abilities. We rely on predictions from research on Pygmalion effects to examine how external, leader biases can elicit subsequent differences in employees' internal cognitions, which then impact turnover decisions. Utilizing a survey study of 228 employers and employees across four time points, we found support for the notion that leaders view racial minority new hires as having less efficacy than their White counterparts, and that these biases, when combined with less satisfactory supervision, lead minorities to have decreased self‐efficacy, subsequently causing them to perceive a less viable future in that company and voluntarily turn over.
Birthweight and gestational age‐specific neonatal mortality rate in tertiary care facilities in Eastern Central Uganda
Authors: Mubiri Paul , Nambuya Harriet , Kajjo Darious , Butrick Elizabeth , Namazzi Gertrude , Santos Nicole , Walker Dilys , Waiswa Peter
Published: October 2020

Background

An estimated 2.8 million neonatal deaths occur each year globally, which accounts for at least 45% of deaths in children aged less than 5 years. Birthweight and gestational age‐specific mortality estimates are limited in low‐resource countries like Uganda. A deeper analysis of mortality by birthweight and gestational age is critical in identifying the cause and potential solutions to decrease neonatal mortality.

Objectives

We studied mortality before discharge in relation to birthweight and gestational age using a large sample size from selected tertiary care facilities in Uganda.

Methods

We used secondary data from the East Africa Preterm Birth Initiative study conducted in six tertiary care facilities. Birth records of infants born between October 2016 and March 2019 with a gestational age greater than or equal to 24 weeks and/or birthweight greater than or equal to 500 g were reviewed for inclusion in the analysis. Newborn death before discharge was the outcome variable of interest. Multivariable Poisson regression modeling was used to explore birthweight and gestational age‐specific mortality rate.

Results

We analysed 50 278 birth records. Among these 95.3% (47 913) were live births and 4.8% (2365) were stillbirths. Of the 47 913 live births, 50% (24 147) were males. Overall, pre‐discharge mortality was 13.0 per 1000 live births. For each 1 kg increase in birthweight, mortality before discharge decreased by −0.016. As birthweight increases, the mortality before discharge decreased from 336 per 1000 live births among infants born between 500 and 999 g, to 4.7 per 1000 live births among infants born weighing 3500 to 3999 g, and increased again to 11.2 per 1000 live births among infants weighing more than 4500 g.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the need for further research to understand newborn survival across different birthweight and gestational categories.
Effect of hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide on labor duration among nullipara in a southwestern Nigerian teaching hospital: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Akiseku Adeniyi K. , Jagun Olusoji E. , Akadri Adebayo A. , Imaralu John O. , Olatunji Adetola O. , Sule‐Odu Adewale O.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide on the duration of the first stage of labor among nulliparous women.

Methods

A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled study among 126 nulliparous women admitted in the active phase of labor to a teaching hospital in Sagamu, Nigeria, from January to August 2018. Based on the inclusion criteria, women were recruited and randomized to the study or control group, and given intravenous hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide 20 mg (1 mL) or sterile water (1 mL), respectively, during the active phase. Labor progress and outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

The mean ± SD duration of active phase of first stage of labor was significantly shorter in the hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide group (324.9 ± 134.6 min) than in the control group (392.7 ± 119.6 min) (P = 0.004). The rate of cervical dilatation was 1.4 ± 0.8 cm/h in the hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide group and 1.0 ± 0.5 cm/h in the control group (P = 0.004). There were no significant differences in fetal heart rate, maternal vital signs, or Apgar scores between the two groups.

Conclusion

Hyoscine‐N‐butylbromide was found to be effective in shortening the duration of the first stage of labor without adverse outcomes for mother or neonate.

The trial was registered with the Pan African Clinical trials Registry (PACTR), protocol number: PACTR201808146688942 (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=3532).
Demonstrating Feasibility of an Opportunistic Sampling Approach for Pharmacokinetic Studies of β‐Lactam Antibiotics in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Tang Girdwood Sonya C. , Tang Peter H. , Murphy Mark E. , Chamberlain Andrea R. , Benken Laura A. , Jones Rhonda L. , Stoneman Erin M. , Kaplan Jennifer M. , Vinks Alexander A.
Published: October 2020

There has been increasing interest in incorporating β‐lactam precision dosing into routine clinical care, but robust population pharmacokinetic models in critically ill children are needed for these purposes. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of an opportunistic sampling approach that utilizes scavenged residual blood for future pharmacokinetic studies of cefepime, meropenem, and piperacillin. We aimed to show that opportunistic samples would cover the full concentration‐versus‐time profiles and to evaluate stability of the antibiotics in whole blood and plasma to optimize future use of the opportunistic sampling approach. A prospective observational study was conducted in a single‐center pediatric intensive care unit, where pediatric patients administered at least 1 dose of cefepime, meropenem, or piperacillin/tazobactam and who had residual blood scavenged from samples obtained for routine clinical care were enrolled. A total of 138 samples from 22 pediatric patients were collected in a 2‐week period. For all 3 antibiotics, the samples collected covered the entire dosing intervals and were not clustered around specific times. There was high variability in the free concentrations and in the percentage of drug bound to protein. There was less than 15% degradation for meropenem or piperacillin when stored in whole blood or plasma at 4°C after 6 days. Cefepime degraded by more than 15% after 3 days. The opportunistic sampling approach is a powerful and feasible method to obtain sufficient samples to study the variability of drug concentrations and protein binding for future pharmacokinetic studies in the pediatric critical care population.
A novel one‐pot strategy of preparation of N‐phenylacrylamide‐styrene co‐polymer open tubular capillary column for peptides separation
Authors: Sun Genlin , Lu Yao
Published: October 2020

An open tubular capillary column (100 μm internal diameter and 120 cm length) was first fabricated with N‐phenylacrylamide and styrene copolymer layer on the inner surface by in situ one‐pot strategy, while ethylene dimethacrylate was used as the cross‐linker. The pretreated silica‐fused capillary was reacted with 3‐trimethoxysilyl propyl methacrylate to attach a double‐bond ligand onto the inner surface of the capillary. Further, a thick and stabile copolymer layer was generated on the inner surface of the capillary by the novel method in situ one‐pot reaction of styrene‐N‐phenylacrylamide. The effects of reaction temperature and composition of the polymerization mixture on the morphology and permeability of the copolymer were investigated. The separation performance of the fabricated polymer columns were validated by separation of five synthetic peptides. The excellent efficiency (188 500 plates/m) of 100 μm internal diameter open tubular column with the separation media prepared by mixed one‐pot copolymerization has not been achieved via the isocratic elution mode. The column to column, intraday, and interday repeatabilities evaluated from the relative standard deviation were found better than 4%, exhibiting considerable repeatability of the column.
Active Observation as an Alternative to Invasive Treatments for Pediatric Head and Neck Lymphatic Malformations
Authors: Bonilla‐Velez Juliana , Whitlock Kathryn B. , Ganti Sheila , Theeuwen Hailey A. , Manning Scott C. , Bly Randall A. , Dahl John P. , Perkins Jonathan A.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

An increasing number of treatment modalities for lymphatic malformations are being described, complicating therapeutic decisions. Understanding lymphatic malformation natural history is essential. We describe management of head and neck lymphatic malformations where decisions primarily addressed lesion‐induced functional compromise (ie, breathing, swallowing) to identify factors associated with invasive treatment and active observation. We hypothesize that non‐function threatening malformations can be observed.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Retrospective case series of consecutive head and neck lymphatic malformation patients (2000–2017) with over 2 years of follow‐up. Patient characteristics were summarized and associations with invasive treatment (surgery or sclerotherapy) tested using Fisher's exact. In observed patients, factors associated with spontaneous regression were assessed with Fisher's exact test.

Results

Of 191 patients, 101 (53%) were male, 97 (51%) Caucasian, and 98 (51.3%) younger than 3 months. Malformations were de Serres I–III 167 (87%), or IV–V 24 (12%), and commonly located in the neck (101, 53%), or oral cavity (36, 19%). Initial treatments included observation (65, 34%) or invasive treatments such as primary surgery (80, 42%), staged surgery (25, 13%), or primary sclerotherapy (9, 5%). Of 65 initially observed malformations, 8 (12%) subsequently had invasive treatment, 36 (58%) had spontaneous regression, and 21 (32%) elected for no invasive therapy. Spontaneous regression was associated with location in the lateral neck (P = .003) and macrocystic malformations (P = .017).

Conclusion

Head and neck lymphatic malformation treatment selection can be individualized after stratifying by stage, presence of functional compromise, and consideration of natural history. Recognizing the spectrum of severity is essential in evaluating efficacy of emerging treatments, as selected malformations may respond to observation.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1392–1397, 2021
Quantification of creatine kinase reaction rate in mouse hindlimb using phosphorus‐31 magnetic resonance spectroscopic fingerprinting
Authors: Kim Kihwan , Gu Yuning , Wang Charlie Y. , Clifford Bryan , Huang Sherry , Liang Zhi‐Pei , Yu Xin
Published: October 2020

Abstract

The goal of this study was to evaluate the accuracy, reproducibility, and efficiency of a 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopic fingerprinting (31P‐MRSF) method for fast quantification of the forward rate constant of creatine kinase (CK) in mouse hindlimb. The 31P‐MRSF method acquired spectroscopic fingerprints using interleaved acquisition of phosphocreatine (PCr) and γATP with ramped flip angles and a saturation scheme sensitive to chemical exchange between PCr and γATP. Parameter estimation was performed by matching the acquired fingerprints to a dictionary of simulated fingerprints generated from the Bloch‐McConnell model. The accuracy of 31P‐MRSF measurements was compared with the magnetization transfer (MT‐MRS) method in mouse hindlimb at 9.4 T (n = 8). The reproducibility of 31P‐MRSF was also assessed by repeated measurements. Estimation of the CK rate constant using 31P‐MRSF (0.39 ± 0.03 s−1) showed a strong agreement with that using MT‐MRS measurements (0.40 ± 0.05 s−1). Variations less than 10% were achieved with 2 min acquisition of 31P‐MRSF data. Application of the 31P‐MRSF method to mice subjected to an electrical stimulation protocol detected an increase in CK rate constant in response to stimulation‐induced muscle contraction. These results demonstrated the potential of the 31P‐MRSF framework for rapid, accurate, and reproducible quantification of the chemical exchange rate of CK in vivo.
Numerical solutions of Boussinesq equation using Galerkin finite element method
Authors: Ucar Yusuf , Esen Alaattin , Karaagac Berat
Published: October 2020

In this study, Galerkin finite element method has been applied to good Boussinesq (GBq) and bad Boussinesq (BBq) equations which are examples of Boussinesq type equations. To apply the method, cubic B‐spline basis functions are taken as element and weight functions. The solutions of the numerical schemes have been obtained using the fourth order Runge–Kutta method. The error norms L2 and L∞ have been used to test how compatible they obtained numerical solutions with those of exact ones. As numerical examples, solitary wave motion and interaction of solitary waves have been investigated for both GBq and BBq equation. Also blow‐up solutions related to the interaction of two solitary waves are considered for GBq equation.
Mortality and morbidity following postoperative use of short‐term, low‐dose quetiapine vs risperidone in patients with diabetes: Analysis using a national inpatient database
Authors: Sato Daisuke , Uda Kazuaki , Kumazawa Ryosuke , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Short‐term, low‐dose quetiapine is used to treat postoperative delirium and insomnia. Quetiapine is contraindicated for patients with diabetes in Japan because there have been several case reports of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in patients receiving long‐term, high‐dose quetiapine. However, because safety of short‐term, low‐dose quetiapine remains controversial, it is prescribed for patients with diabetes in real‐world clinical practice. The present study aimed to compare in‐hospital mortality and morbidity between short‐term, low‐dose quetiapine and risperidone in postoperative patients with diabetes.

Methods

We used a national inpatient database in Japan to perform a retrospective cohort study. We identified hospitalized patients with diabetes who underwent scheduled elective surgery and received oral quetiapine 200 mg/d or less or oral risperidone 4 mg/d or less within 7 days of surgery between July 2010 and March 2018. We performed one‐to‐one propensity score‐matched analyses to compare outcomes between patients with quetiapine and risperidone. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. The secondary outcome was infectious complications (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, surgical site infection, and sepsis).

Results

Propensity score matching created 665 pairs of patients who received quetiapine or risperidone. The primary outcome was observed in 19 (2.9%) of the quetiapine group and 11 (1.7%) of the risperidone group (relative risk, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.97–1.68; P = .14). The secondary outcome did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusion

In terms of mortality and infectious outcomes, safety of quetiapine and risperidone may be comparable.
Psychological, educational, and social late effects in adolescent survivors of Wilms tumor: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Foster Rebecca H. , Hayashi Robert J. , Wang Mingjuan , Liu Wei , Mohrmann Caroline , Howell Rebecca M. , Smith Susan A. , Gibson Todd M. , Srivastava DeoKumar , Green Daniel M. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Robison Leslie L. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Krull Kevin R. , Hardy Kristina K.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To delineate the impact of treatment exposures and chronic health conditions on psychological, educational, and social outcomes in adolescent survivors of Wilms tumor.

Methods

Parent reports from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study were analyzed for 666 adolescent survivors of Wilms tumor and 698 adolescent siblings. Adjusting for race and household income, survivors were compared to siblings on the Behavior Problems Index and educational outcomes. Multivariable modified Poisson regression estimated relative risks (RR) for therapeutic exposures and chronic health conditions (CTCAE 4.03 graded) among survivors, adjusting for sex, race, income, and age at diagnosis.

Results

Compared to siblings, adolescent survivors of Wilms tumor were more likely to take psychoactive medication (9.4% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001) and utilize special education services (25.5% vs. 12.6%, p < 0.001) but did not differ significantly in emotional and behavioral problems. Survivors were less likely to be friendless (7.2% vs. 10.1%, p = 0.04) but were more likely to have difficulty getting along with friends (14.5% vs. 7.8%, p < 0.001). Among survivors, use of special education services was associated with abdomen plus chest radiation (RR = 1.98, CI:1.18–3.34). Those with grade 2–4 cardiovascular conditions had higher risk for anxiety/depression (RR = 1.95, CI:1.19–3.19), headstrong behaviors (RR = 1.91, CI:1.26–2.89), and inattention (RR = 1.56, CI:1.02–2.40).

Conclusions

Adolescent survivors of Wilms tumor were similar to siblings with respect to mental health concerns overall but were more likely to require special education. Monitoring of psychosocial and academic problems through adolescence is warranted, especially among those treated with radiation to the abdomen plus chest or with cardiac conditions.
Comparing conditional probabilities and statistical independence in layers of protection analysis
Authors: Mott Timothy C. , Kivistik Paul Michael , Panorska Anna K. , Cantu David C.
Published: October 2020

This paper demonstrates an approach to include conditional probabilities when calculating probabilities of disaster in quantitative risk analysis. Since not all layers of protection are independent of each other, using conditional probabilities leads to more accurate calculations of probabilities of disaster in a chemical process. An event tree analysis approach is shown by calculating probabilities of disaster assuming that events are statistically independent (independence assumption), and separately considering that events affect each other (conditional probabilities), in three cases with increasing complexity and number of layers of protection. For each case, we considered multiple scenarios to show that results do not depend on the input probabilities of particular events. In most scenarios of the three cases, findings demonstrate that the probabilities of disaster calculated using the independence assumption are lower than those with conditional probabilities, which can lead to undercounting the layers of protection that are actually needed.
Matching‐adjusted indirect comparisons: Application to time‐to‐event data
Authors: Aouni Jihane , Gaudel‐Dedieu Nadia , Sebastien Bernard
Published: October 2020

The Matching‐Adjusted Indirect Comparison method (MAIC) is a recent methodology that allows to perform indirect comparisons between two drugs assessed in two different studies, where individual patients data are available in only one of the two studies, the data of the other one being available in an aggregate format only. In this work, we have assessed the properties of the MAIC method and compared, through simulations, several ways of practical implementation of the method. We conclude that it is more efficient to match the treatment arms separately (match the two drugs to compare on one hand, and the control arms on the other hand) and use the Lasso technique to select the covariates for the matching step is better than matching a maximal set of covariates.
A qualitative study to investigate the psychosocial effects of operational deployments on Medical Emergency Response Team personnel
Authors: Lamb Di , Withnall Rich DJ
Published: October 2020

The stressors associated with emergency medical teams responding to critical incidents are well documented; however, the impact of such duties on the UK military personnel had never been investigated. This study explored the psychosocial effects of Medical Emergency Response Teams (MERT) operating in Afghanistan to inform the development of a Resilience Model. A structured and contextually relevant process could then be applied for a team's preparation for, delivery of and recovery from, their duties. A qualitative cross‐sectional design used semi‐structured interviews and 15 multidisciplinary team members participated. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data were systematically analysed using grounded theory. Emergent theory poses that developing resilience against the demands of this role is dependent upon personnel having a realistic understanding of the deployed environment by phased immersion within it. This preparatory training generates situational awareness, trust and strong team cohesion, which together with peer and organizational support are necessary factors to effectively cope with the role. To limit the costs of caring, there is a need for MERT personnel to segregate the physiological and emotional aspects of delivering care to the injured; those unable to do so may be at greater risk of poor mental health outcomes. The preparatory training of MERT personnel must be further developed to provide an immersive environment that more closely matches the reality of the role. A period of stability is required post deployment with the support of peers to enable personnel to more efficiently transition back to their home life.
Examining Illiberal Trends and Anti-EU Politics in East Central Europe from a Domestic Perspective: State of Research and Outline of the Book
Authors: Anders Lisa H. , Lorenz Astrid
Published: October 2020

This opening chapter introduces the subject matter and objectives of the book. It first explains central terms and provides an overview of the different illiberal trends in Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It then sketches recent conflicts between EU actors and the four East Central European states and explains why these conflicts are of a new quality. Next, it summarises the state of research on illiberal backsliding and on the EU’s tools against it and identifies shortcomings and gaps in the literature. Finally, it outlines the aims as well as the overall structure of the book and provides an overview of the contributions.
Safeguarding Democracy and the Rule of Law by Civil Society Actors? The Case of Poland
Authors: Matthes Claudia-Y.
Published: October 2020

A growing body of literature examines the EU’s reactions to illiberal trends in ECE countries. These studies predominantly focus on political instruments such as Article 7 and the Commission’s new rule of law mechanism, and there is a broad consensus on the view that these tools are too weak to combat breaches of liberal principles. This chapter therefore explores the potential of alternative strategies, namely the involvement of civil society actors in backsliding countries. By looking at the Polish case, it explores how much Polish civil society interacts with the European institutions in order to address violations of the rule of law and which strategies these actors unfold. It examines whether this cooperation may help to safeguard democracy in a bottom-up manner. The overall goal of the chapter is to investigate how much the EU’s instruments against democratic backsliding could and should be accompanied effectively by strategies aiming at collaboration with liberal forces within the backsliding member states.