bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Emission of Ultraviolet Light by Solid State Organic Fluorophores: Synthesis and Characterization of 1,4‐Dialkeny‐2,5‐dioxybenzenes
Authors: Shimizu Masaki , Nishimura Kenta , Hirakawa Rika , Sakurai Tsuneaki
Published: September 2020

The design and development of organic luminophores that exhibit efficient ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence in the solid state remains underexplored. Here, we report that 1,4‐dialkenyl‐2,5‐dialkoxybenzenes and 1,4‐dialkenyl‐2,5‐disiloxybenzenes act as such UV‐emissive fluorophores. The dialkenyldioxybenzenes were readily prepared in three steps from 2,5‐dimethoxy‐1,4‐diacetylbenzene or 2,5‐dimethoxy‐1,4‐diformylbenzene via two to four steps from 1,4‐bis(diethoxyphosphonylmethyl)‐2,5‐dimethoxybenzene. The dialkenyldioxybenzenes emit UV light in solution (λem=350–387 nm) and in the solid state (λem=328–388 nm). In addition, the quantum yields in the solid state were generally higher than those in solution. In particular, the adamantylidene‐substituted benzenes fluoresced in the UV region with high quantum yields (Φ=0.37–0.55) in the solid state. Thin films of poly(methyl methacrylate) doped with the adamantylidene‐substituted benzenes also exhibited UV emission with good efficiency (Φ=0.27–0.45). Density functional theory calculations revealed that the optical excitation of the dialkenyldimethoxybenzenes involves intramolecular charge‐transfer from the ether oxygen atoms to the twisted alkenyl‐benzene‐alkenyl moiety, whereas the dialkenylbis(triphenylsiloxy)benzenes were optically excited through intramolecular charge‐transfer from the oxygen atoms and twisted π‐system to the phenyl‐Si moieties of each triphenylsilyl group.
Computational Mapping of Dirhodium(II) Catalysts
Authors: Green Adam I. , Tinworth Christopher P. , Warriner Stuart , Nelson Adam , Fey Natalie
Published: September 2020

The chemistry of dirhodium(II) catalysts is highly diverse, and can enable the synthesis of many different molecular classes. A tool to aid in catalyst selection, independent of mechanism and reactivity, would therefore be highly desirable. Here, we describe the development of a database for dirhodium(II) catalysts that is based on the principal component analysis of DFT‐calculated parameters capturing their steric and electronic properties. This database maps the relevant catalyst space, and may facilitate exploration of the reactivity landscape for any process catalysed by dirhodium(II) complexes. We have shown that one of the principal components of these catalysts correlates with the outcome (e.g. yield, selectivity) of a transformation used in a molecular discovery project. Furthermore, we envisage that this approach will assist the selection of more effective catalyst screening sets, and, hence, the data‐led optimisation of a wide range of rhodium‐catalysed transformations.
Syngas and Methanol‐Based Biorefinery Concepts
Authors: Frazão Cláudio J. R. , Walther Thomas
Published: September 2020

The use of syngas, which can be sustainably derived from CO2 or from exhaust gases of steel mills, is gaining increasing interest for the synthesis of added‐value products. In this review, the state of the art and technological challenges emerging from the use of this gaseous feedstock are described. In addition, the possibility of converting syngas into methanol and its subsequent use as the substrate in a microbial fermentation stage are discussed.
Age no bar: A CIBMTR analysis of elderly patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation for multiple myeloma
Authors: Munshi Pashna N. , Vesole David , Jurczyszyn Artur , Zaucha Jan Maciej , St. Martin Andrew , Davila Omar , Agrawal Vaibhav , Badawy Sherif M. , Battiwalla Minoo , Chhabra Saurabh , Copelan Edward , Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Farhadfar Nosha , Ganguly Siddhartha , Hashmi Shahrukh , Krem Maxwell M. , Lazarus Hillard M. , Malek Ehsan , Meehan Kenneth , Murthy Hemant S. , Nishihori Taiga , Olin Rebecca L. , Olsson Richard F. , Schriber Jeffrey , Seo Sachiko , Shah Gunjan , Solh Melhem , Tay Jason , Kumar Shaji , Qazilbash Muzaffar H. , Shah Nina , Hari Parameswaran N. , D’Souza Anita
Published: September 2020

Background

Upfront autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHCT) remains an important therapy in the management of patients with multiple myeloma (MM), a disease of older adults.

Methods

The authors investigated the outcomes of AHCT in patients with MM who were aged ≥70 years. The Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) database registered 15,999 patients with MM in the United States within 12 months of diagnosis during 2013 through 2017; a total of 2092 patients were aged ≥70 years. Nonrecurrence mortality (NRM), disease recurrence and/or progression (relapse; REL), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were modeled using Cox proportional hazards models with age at transplantation as the main effect. Because of the large sample size, a P value <.01 was considered to be statistically significant a priori.

Results

An increase in AHCT was noted in 2017 (28%) compared with 2013 (15%) among patients aged ≥70 years. Although approximately 82% of patients received melphalan (Mel) at a dose of 200 mg/m2 overall, 58% of the patients aged ≥70 years received Mel at a dose of 140 mg/m2. On multivariate analysis, patients aged ≥70 years demonstrated no difference with regard to NRM (hazard ratio [HR] 1.3; 99% confidence interval [99% CI], 1‐1.7 [P = .06]), REL (HR, 1.03; 99% CI, 0.9‐1.1 [P = 0.6]), PFS (HR, 1.06; 99% CI, 1‐1.2 [P = 0.2]), and OS (HR, 1.2; 99% CI, 1‐1.4 [P = .02]) compared with the reference group (those aged 60‐69 years). In patients aged ≥70 years, Mel administered at a dose of 140 mg/m2 was found to be associated with worse outcomes compared with Mel administered at a dose of 200 mg/m2, including day 100 NRM (1% [95% CI, 1%‐2%] vs 0% [95% CI, 0%‐1%]; P = .003]), 2‐year PFS (64% [95% CI, 60%‐67%] vs 69% [95% CI, 66%‐73%]; P = .003), and 2‐year OS (85% [95% CI, 82%‐87%] vs 89% [95% CI, 86%‐91%]; P = .01]), likely representing frailty.

Conclusions

The results of the current study demonstrated that AHCT remains an effective consolidation therapy among patients with MM across all age groups.
Suicidality among adult survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study
Authors: Lubas Margaret M. , Mirzaei Salehabadi Sedigheh , Lavecchia Jeanette , Alberts Nicole M. , Krull Kevin R. , Ehrhardt Matthew J. , Srivastava Deokumar , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Brinkman Tara M.
Published: September 2020

Background

Suicide is a serious public health concern. An increased risk of suicide ideation previously has been reported among survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

Suicide mortality was assessed for all potentially eligible survivors (those aged ≥18 years who were ≥5 years after their cancer diagnosis; 7312 survivors). Risk factors for acute suicidal ideation were assessed among clinically evaluated survivors (3096 survivors) and the prevalence of acute ideation was compared with that of community controls (429 individuals). The prevalence of 12‐month suicidality was assessed among survivors who could be compared with population data (1255 survivors). Standardized mortality ratios compared rates of suicide mortality among survivors with those of the general population. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) derived from generalized linear models identified risk factors associated with acute suicidal ideation. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) compared the prevalence of 12‐month suicidality among survivors with that of a matched sample from the general population.

Results

Survivors reported a similar 12‐month prevalence of ideation compared with the general population (SIR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.35‐1.01) and a lower prevalence of suicidal behaviors (planning: SIR, 0.17 [95% CI, 0.07‐0.27]; attempts: SIR, 0.07 [95% CI, 0.00‐0.15]) and mortality (standardized mortality ratio, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.34‐0.86). Among survivors, depression (RR, 12.30; 95% CI, 7.89‐19.11), anxiety (RR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.40‐3.40), and financial stress (RR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.00‐2.15) were found to be associated with a higher prevalence of acute suicidal ideation.

Conclusions

Survivors of childhood cancer were found to be at a lower risk of suicidal behaviors and mortality, yet endorsed a prevalence of ideation similar to that of the general population. These results are in contrast to previous findings of suicidal ideation among survivors and support the need for further research to inform screening strategies and interventions.

Lay Summary

The purpose of the current study was to compare the risk of suicidal ideation, behaviors, and mortality in adult survivors of childhood cancer with those of the general population. Risk factors associated with suicidal ideation among survivors of childhood cancer also were examined.

Survivors of childhood cancer reported a similar risk of ideation compared with the general population, but a lower risk of suicidal behaviors and mortality. Psychological health and financial stressors were found to be risk factors associated with suicidal ideation.

Although adult survivors of childhood cancer did not report a greater risk of suicidality compared with the general population, psychosocial care in survivorship remains essential.
African Americans with translocation t(11;14) have superior survival after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation for multiple myeloma in comparison with Whites in the United States
Authors: Badar Talha , Hari Parameswaran , Dávila Omar , Fraser Raphael , Wirk Baldeep , Dhakal Binod , Freytes Cesar O. , Rodriguez Valdes Cesar , Lee Cindy , Vesole David H. , Malek Ehsan , Hildebrandt Gerhard C. , Landau Heather , Murthy Hemant S. , Lazarus Hillard M. , Berdeja Jesus G. , Meehan Kenneth R. , Solh Melhem , Diaz Miguel Angel , Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Callander Natalie S. , Farhadfar Nosha , Bashir Qaiser , Kamble Rammurti T. , Vij Ravi , Munker Reinhold , Kyle Robert A. , Chhabra Saurabh , Hashmi Shahrukh , Ganguly Siddhartha , Jagannath Sundar , Nishihori Taiga , Nieto Yago , Kumar Shaji , Shah Nina , D’Souza Anita
Published: September 2020

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) with the translocation t(11;14) may have inferior outcomes in comparison with other standard‐risk MM, and it has been suggested to portend a worse prognosis in African Americans in comparison with Whites. This study used the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) database to examine the impact of t(11;14) on the clinical outcomes of patients with MM of African American and White descent.

Methods

This study evaluated 3538 patients who underwent autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (autoHCT) for MM from 2008 to 2016 and were reported to the CIBMTR. Patients were analyzed in 4 groups: African Americans with t(11;14) (n = 117), African Americans without t(11;14) (n = 968), Whites with t(11;14) (n = 266), and Whites without t(11;14) (n = 2187).

Results

African Americans with t(11;14) were younger, had lower Karnofsky scores, and had more advanced stage MM with a higher Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation–Comorbidity Index (HCT‐CI). Fewer African Americans with t(11;14) (21%) had a coexistent high‐risk marker in comparison with Whites with t(11;14) (27%). In a multivariate analysis, race and t(11;14) had no association with progression‐free survival. However, overall survival was superior among African Americans with t(11;14) in comparison with Whites with t(11;14) (hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.30‐0.93; P = .03). Survival was also associated with female sex, stage, time from diagnosis to transplant, a low HCT‐CI, and receipt of maintenance.

Conclusions

Race may have a differential impact on the survival of patients with t(11;14) MM who undergo autoHCT and needs to be further studied.
Facile Route of P‐doped Defect‐rich Manganese‐cobalt Oxide Spinel with Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction Performance
Authors: Peng Xiangfeng , Wang Zhao
Published: September 2020

Phosphorus dopants and defects were successfully introduced to a manganese‐cobalt oxide (MCO) spinel via plasma treatment in the presence of NaH2PO2. High‐energy electrons generated by plasma can produce oxygen vacancy and embed phosphorus into the spinel. To balance the charge of lattice phosphorus, manganese and cobalt atoms left their original sites and deposited as MnO and CoP, thereby forming a disordered structure. Meanwhile, the oxidation state of cobalt increased. These changes provided extra active sites for electrochemical reaction and improved electrical conductivity. In addition, tunnels were formed on the surface, thus favoring mass transport in the electrolyte. Compared with pristine MCO, the spinel doped with phosphorus via plasma treatment showed higher oxygen evolution reaction performance, with a lower onset potential of 1.45 V, higher current density of 25.32 mA cm−2 at 1.75 V, and smaller Tafel slope of 118.7 mV dec−1. These findings can facilitate the development of high‐activity electrocatalysts with dopants and defects for energy storage and conversion systems.
An in‐depth introduction of multi‐workgroup tiling for improving the locality of explicit one‐step methods for ODE systems with limited access distance on GPUs
Authors: Korch Matthias , Werner Tim
Published: September 2020

This article considers a locality optimization technique for the parallel solution of a special class of large systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by explicit one‐step methods on GPUs. This technique is based on tiling across the stages of the one‐step method and is enabled by the special structure of the class of ODE systems considered, that is, the limited access distance. The focus of this article is on increasing the range of access distances for which the tiling technique can provide a speedup by joining the memory resources and the computational power of multiple workgroups for the computation of one tile (multi‐workgroup tiling). In particular, this article provides an extended in‐depth introduction and discussion of the multi‐workgroup tiling technique and its theoretical and technical foundations together with a new tuning option (mapping stride) and new experiments. The experiments performed show speedups of the multi‐workgroup tiling technique compared with traditional single‐workgroup tiling for two different Runge–Kutta methods on NVIDIAs Kepler and Volta architectures.
Structure‐Dependent Strain Effects
Authors: Dietze Elisabeth M. , Grönbeck Henrik
Published: September 2020

Density functional theory calculations of atomic and molecular adsorption on (111) and (100) metal surfaces reveal marked surface and structure dependent effects of strain. Adsorption in three‐fold hollow sites is found to be destabilized by compressive strain whereas the reversed trend is commonly valid for adsorption in four‐fold sites. The effects, which are qualitatively explained using a simple two‐orbital model, provide insights on how to modify chemical properties by strain design.
Estrogen‐dependent sex difference in microglia in the developing brain of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Delage Charlotte Isabelle , Cornil Charlotte Anne
Published: September 2020

Brain sexual differentiation is a developmental process leading to the establishment of stable neural sex differences. In birds and rodents, this process is largely driven by estrogens during a critical period. In rodents, estrogens drive the masculinization of the brain, a process that partly depends on microglia. In contrast, in birds, estrogens produced by females induce demasculinization, but whether microglia are involved in this process is unknown. This study assessed whether microglial number, morphology, and/or activity differ between the sexes in selected regions of the developing quail brain and whether they are influenced by estrogens. We found a robust female‐biased sex difference in microglial numbers between embryonic day 9 and 12 in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM), a key region for the expression of male sexual behavior. This difference relies on estrogens produced during the sensitive period. Although most embryonic microglia express iNOS, the expression of iNOS in individual microglia does not differ between sexes. Finally, microglial number and the expression of iNOS were not affected by the microglia inhibitor minocycline. Together, these results revealed an estrogen‐dependent sex difference in microglia during the critical period for the sexual differentiation of the quail brain. This difference mirrors the different role of estrogens in the development of birds and rodents and suggests a role for microglia in the sexual differentiation of the brain of birds, as in rodents, thus supporting the hypothesis of a conserved role of the neuroimmune system in the organization of the brain by estrogens.
Genetic diversity analysis of papaya leaf distortion mosaic virus isolates infecting transgenic papaya “Huanong No. 1” in South China
Authors: Mo Cuiping , Wu Zilin , Xie Hengping , Zhang Shuguang , Li Huaping
Published: September 2020

The commercialized genetically modified papaya “Huanong No. 1” has been utilized to successfully control the destructive virus‐papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) in South China since 2006. However, another new emerging virus, papaya leaf distortion mosaic virus (PLDMV), was found in some PRSV‐resistant transgenic plants in Guangdong and Hainan provinces of South China through a field investigation from 2012 to 2019. The survey results showed that “Huanong No. 1” papaya plants are susceptible to PLDMV, and the disease prevalence in Hainan Province is generally higher than that in Guangdong Province. Twenty representative isolates were selected to inoculate “Huanong No. 1,” and all of the inoculated plants showed obvious disease symptoms similar to those in the field, indicating that PLDMV is a new threat to widely cultivated transgenic papaya in South China. Phylogenetic analysis of 111 PLDMV isolates in Guangdong and Hainan based on the coat protein nucleotide sequences showed that PLDMV isolates can be divided into two groups. The Japan and Taiwan China isolates belong to group I, whereas the Guangdong and Hainan isolates belong to group II and can be further divided into two subgroups. The Guangdong and Hainan isolates are far different from the Japan and Taiwan China isolates and belong to a new lineage. Further analysis showed that the Guangdong and Hainan isolates had a high degree of genetic differentiation, and no recombination was found. These isolates deviated from neutral evolution and experienced population expansion events in the past, which might still be unstable. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the evolutionary mechanism and population genetics of the virus and for preventing and controlling the viral disease.
Influence of climate, soil, and land cover on plant species distribution in the European Alps
Authors: Chauvier Yohann , Thuiller Wilfried , Brun Philipp , Lavergne Sébastien , Descombes Patrice , Karger Dirk N. , Renaud Julien , Zimmermann Niklaus E.
Published: September 2020

Although the importance of edaphic factors and habitat structure for plant growth and survival is known, both are often neglected in favor of climatic drivers when investigating the spatial patterns of plant species and diversity. Yet, especially in mountain ecosystems with complex topography, missing edaphic and habitat components may be detrimental for a sound understanding of biodiversity distribution. Here, we compare the relative importance of climate, soil and land cover variables when predicting the distributions of 2,616 vascular plant species in the European Alps, representing approximately two‐thirds of all European flora. Using presence‐only data, we built point‐process models (PPMs) to relate species observations to different combinations of covariates. We evaluated the PPMs through block cross‐validations and assessed the independent contributions of climate, soil, and land cover covariates to predict plant species distributions using an innovative predictive partitioning approach. We found climate to be the most influential driver of spatial patterns in plant species with a relative influence of ~58.5% across all species, with decreasing importance from low to high elevations. Soil (~20.1%) and land cover (~21.4%), overall, were less influential than climate, but increased in importance along the elevation gradient. Furthermore, land cover showed strong local effects in lowlands, while the contribution of soil stabilized at mid‐elevations. The decreasing influence of climate with elevation is explained by increasing endemism, and the fact that climate becomes more homogeneous as habitat diversity declines at higher altitudes. In contrast, soil predictors were found to follow the opposite trend. Additionally, at low elevations, human‐mediated land cover effects appear to reduce the importance of climate predictors. We conclude that soil and land cover are, like climate, principal drivers of plant species distribution in the European Alps. While disentangling their effects remains a challenge, future studies can benefit markedly by including soil and land cover effects when predicting species distributions.
Comparison of five conditioned pain modulation paradigms and influencing personal factors in healthy adults
Authors: Mertens Michel GCAM , Hermans Linda , Crombez Geert , Goudman Lisa , Calders Patrick , Van Oosterwijck Jessica , Meeus Mira
Published: September 2020

Background

Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) methods are experimental procedures to assess presumed descending nociceptive modulatory pathways. Various CPM‐methods are currently used, making the comparison of results difficult. The aim of this study was to compare five conditioning stimuli and to evaluate the influencing effects of personal factors on CPM‐efficacy.

Methods

101 healthy pain‐free adults (50 males, 51 females) participated in this cross‐sectional study with repeated measures design. The CPM‐method consisted of hot water immersion (46°C, HWI), cold pressor test (12°C, CPT), cold pack application, and single and double ischemic occlusion as conditioning stimuli in randomized order. Pressure pain threshold was used as test stimulus at the mm. trapezius and quadriceps for all CPM‐protocols.

Results

All CPM‐protocols resulted in effective CPM, although cold pack application revealed smaller CPM‐magnitudes compared to all other methods at both muscles, except single ischemic occlusion at the m. quadriceps. A smaller CPM‐effect at the m. trapezius was shown when CPM was provoked by single ischemic occlusion compared to the CPT. Chronic stress, gender, attentional focus, age, physical activity and perceived pain are all influencing factors, in various conditioning stimuli at the mm. trapezius and quadriceps.

Conclusions

CPT and HWI seem to be the most appropriate conditioned pain modulation paradigms for research settings, while single and double ischemic occlusion seem to be more useful for clinical settings. Influencing factors to be considered are gender, age, stress, physical activity, perceived pain and attentional focus to the conditioning stimulus, but depend on the test site and exerted method.

Significance

Hot water immersion, cold pressor test, and single and double ischemic occlusion result in comparable CPM‐effects at the mm. trapezius and quadriceps. Anti‐nociceptive effects of the cold pack are mainly a result of attention towards the cold pack. Chronic stress, attentional focus towards the conditioning stimulus and perceived pain of the conditioning stimulus influenced the anti‐nociceptive effects at the m. trapezius. Gender and level of physical activity influenced the anti‐nociceptive effects with the other methods at the m. quadriceps.
“If she had broken her leg she would not have waited in agony for 9 months”: Caregiver's experiences of eating disorder treatment
Authors: Robinson Isabella , Stoyel Hannah , Robinson Paul
Published: September 2020

This study aims to explore caregivers' experiences of eating disorder services and subsequent impacts on the caregiving burden and patient outcomes. Thematic analysis was employed to investigate qualitative data from a caregiver‐targeted online survey run by BEAT, the UK's largest eating disorder charity. Six hundred and 16 caregivers completed the survey. Participants' experiences of eating disorder treatment were predominantly negative, characterised by three main themes: (a) Barriers to care: enduring obstacles caregivers face in accessing support for their loved ones, (b) Experiences of services: high levels of unmet needs for caregivers and patients alike, (c) Affected domains: the pervasive impact of caregiving, influenced by experiences of services. This study is the largest of its kind to explore caregivers' experiences of eating disorder treatment services and aims to give voice to this overlooked group within research. Notably, little has been done to address broader systemic challenges faced by caregivers in accessing support for loved ones. Results indicate these challenges may play a substantial role in shaping the caregiving burden, carer coping styles, and subsequent patient outcomes. Findings denote wider systemic issues and a lack of specificities of information and practical skills that could help prevent caregivers from experiencing the caregiving burden and subsequent consequences on eating disorder patient outcomes.
Three‐dimensional complex fracture propagation simulation: Implications for rapid decline of production capacity
Authors: Hu Yongquan , Wang Qiang , Zhao Jinzhou , Chen Shengnan , Zhao Chaoneng , Fu Chenghao
Published: September 2020

In this study, a simulation model of fracture network geometry in fractured and porous elastic reservoirs is established based on the globally embedded three‐dimensional cohesive zone model (3D CZM). The effects of stress interference between natural fractures (NFs), horizontal stress difference (HSD), injection rate, and fluid viscosity on fracture geometry were studied and the phenomenon of rapid failure of unconventional reservoir productivity was explained from a coupling fluid flow/geomechanics perspective. The intersection behavior of hydraulic fracture (HF) and NF is simulated; the simulation results are in good agreement with Blanton's criterion, proving the reliability of the 3D CZM. The research results show that in the process of hydraulic fracturing, in addition to the strong stress interference between HFs, there is also strong stress interference between NFs. Stress interference has an important impact on the traction separation of cohesive elements (CEs) and a continuous dynamic impact on the NF opening. For reservoirs with a small HSD, higher injection rate and fluid viscosity produce smaller stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) length, but larger SRV width. Complex fracture networks tend to develop in the vicinity of horizontal wellbores, which leads to rapid failure of productivity. For this kind of reservoir, minimizing the impact of stress interference with a small injection rate is recommended instead of maximizing the injection rate and fluid viscosity. For reservoirs with a large HSD, lower injection rate and fluid viscosity produce larger SRV length and smaller SRV width. The fracture geometries tend to develop simple straight fractures, which leads to low initial productivity. Thus, adopting a relatively large injection rate and fluid viscosity is recommended to make full use of stress interference effects to increase the development of complex fractures near horizontal wellbores. The results of this study can serve as a guide in evaluating fracture complexity, SRV, proppant migration, drainage reservoir volume (DRV), and well completion design; they can also promote the in‐depth understanding of the coupling effect between fluid flow and geomechanics.
The application of L‐glutaminase for the synthesis of the immunomodulatory γ‐D‐glutamyl‐L‐tryptophan and the kokumi‐imparting γ‐D‐glutamyl peptides
Authors: Yang Juan , Huang Yuran , Dong Hao , Huang Guiying , Yu Limei , Bai Weidong , Zeng Xiaofang
Published: September 2020

Glutaminase of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens has been used to synthesize the immunomodulatory γ‐D‐glutamyl‐L‐tryptophan (γ‐D‐Glu‐L‐Trp) and the kokumi‐active γ‐D‐glutamyl peptides. The optimum yield of γ‐D‐Glu‐L‐Trp was 55.76 mM in corresponding to a minimum yield of by‐product (γ‐D‐Glu‐γ‐D‐Glu‐L‐Trp) in the presence of 75 mM D‐Gln and 100 mM L‐Trp. The glutaminase has a low Km values for the donors (D‐Gln and L‐Gln:5.53 and 0.98 mM), but high ones for the acceptors (L‐Trp, L‐Phe, L‐Met, L‐Val and γ‐[D‐Glu](n=1,2,3)‐L‐Val/L‐Phe/L‐Met, ranging from 32.51 to 193.05 mM). The highest Km value appearing when n = 2 (γ‐[D‐Glu](n=0,1,2)‐L‐Val/L‐Phe/L‐Met) suggested the rising difficulty for synthesis when the number of donor increases in the reaction mixtures. The γ‐[D‐Glu](n=1,2,3)‐L‐Val/L‐Phe/L‐Met at 5 mM can impart the blank chicken broth an enhancing monthfulness, thickness, and umaminess taste.
Modeling of a Novel Atmospheric SOFC/GT Hybrid Process and Comparison with State‐of‐the‐Art SOFC System Concepts
Authors: Cardenas De La Cruz C. T. , Herz G. , Reichelt E. , Jahn M.
Published: September 2020

A novel concept for an atmospheric solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) hybrid system applying a sub‐atmospheric gas turbine is proposed. Based on a developed process model suitable operating conditions are studied. The resulting performance is compared to different state‐of‐the‐art SOFC system concepts. The comparison shows that pressurized SOFC/GT systems offer the highest electric efficiency. The novel concept as well as a two‐stage SOFC system offer lower efficiencies, but still well above 60%. However, avoiding the complex system requirements of pressurized SOFC/GT systems, these concepts are promising for highly efficient electricity generation.
Notch3 and DeltaB maintain Müller glia quiescence and act as negative regulators of regeneration in the light‐damaged zebrafish retina
Authors: Campbell Leah J. , Hobgood Joshua S. , Jia Meng , Boyd Patrick , Hipp Rebecca I. , Hyde David R.
Published: September 2020

Damage to the zebrafish retina stimulates resident Müller glia to reprogram, reenter the cell cycle, divide asymmetrically, and produce neuronal progenitor cells that amplify and differentiate into the lost neurons. The transition from quiescent to proliferative Müller glia involves both positive and negative regulators. We previously demonstrated that the Notch signaling pathway represses retinal regeneration by maintaining Müller glia quiescence in zebrafish. Here we examine which Notch receptor is necessary to maintain quiescence. Quantitative RT‐PCR and RNA‐Seq analyses reveal that notch3 is expressed in the undamaged retina and is downregulated in response to light damage. Additionally, Notch3 protein is expressed in quiescent Müller glia of the undamaged retina, is downregulated as Müller glia proliferate, and is reestablished in the Müller glia. Knockdown of Notch3 is sufficient to induce Müller glia proliferation in undamaged retinas and enhances proliferation during light damage. Alternatively, knockdown of Notch1a, Notch1b, or Notch2 decreases the number of proliferating cells during light damage, suggesting that Notch signaling is also required for proliferation during retinal regeneration. We also knockdown the zebrafish Delta and Delta‐like proteins, ligands for the Notch receptors, and find that the deltaB morphant possesses an increased number of proliferating cells in the light‐damaged retina. As with Notch3, knockdown of DeltaB is sufficient to induce Müller glia proliferation in the absence of light damage. Taken together, the negative regulation of Müller glia proliferation in zebrafish retinal regeneration is mediated by Notch3 and DeltaB.
Utility of narrowband imaging in the diagnosis of laryngeal leukoplakia: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ahmadzada Sejad , Vasan Kartik , Sritharan Niranjan , Singh Narinder , Smith Mark , Hull Isabelle , Riffat Faruque
Published: September 2020

This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluates the validity of narrowband imaging (NBI) in differentiating between low‐risk leukoplakia and high‐risk leukoplakia. Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects were searched. Studies evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of NBI in the assessment of laryngeal leukoplakia were included. Pooled sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio were calculated. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria assessing a total of 586 lesions with laryngeal leukoplakia. In differentiating between low‐risk and high‐risk leukoplakia, NBI had a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 85.4% (95% CI [76‐99.9]) and 94.9% (95% CI [91.1‐97.2]) respectively. Pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 99.2 (95% CI [38.28‐257.18]). NBI is a useful imaging modality in differentiating between low‐risk leukoplakia and high‐risk laryngeal leukoplakia. The high sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio make NBI a useful tool in the workup of laryngeal leukoplakia.
Trends in chronic opioid therapy among survivors of head and neck cancer
Authors: Kriplani Anuja , Lavery Jessica A. , Mishra Akriti , Korenstein Deborah , Lipitz‐Snyderman Allison N. , Boudreau Denise M. , Moryl Natalie , Gillespie Erin F. , Salz Talya
Published: September 2020

Background

Survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC) have increased risk of opioid misuse.

Methods

Using Surveillance, Epidemiology and End‐Results‐Medicare data, we matched adults ≥66 years diagnosed with HNC 2008‐2015 with cancer‐free controls. We computed odds ratios (OR) for receipt of chronic opioid therapy (COT, claims for ≥90 consecutive days) for HNC survivors compared to controls each year after matching through 2016.

Results

The cohort of HNC survivors declined from 5107 in the first year after diagnosis to 604 in the sixth year after diagnosis. For 5 years, rates of COT among HNC survivors exceeded that of controls. Differences between survivors and controls declined each year (ORs: year 1, 4.36; year 2, 2.60; year 3, 2.18; year 4, 1.85; and year 5, 1.35; all P‐values <.05).

Conclusions

Among older HNC survivors, cancer‐associated opioid use in the first years after diagnosis suggests that the benefit of opioids must balance the risk of opioid misuse.
Screening and the epidemic of thyroid cancer in China: An analysis of national representative inpatient and commercial insurance databases
Authors: Liu Yihao , Lai Fenghua , Long Jianyan , Peng Sui , Wang Haibo , Zhou Qian , Li Bin , Su Lei , Gan Lanxia , Shi Ying , Lv Weiming , Li Yanbing , Cheng Karkeung , Xiao Haipeng
Published: September 2020

Reasons behind the rapid increase of thyroid cancer (TC) in China are uncertain. We assessed the burden of TC and the role of access to screening and salt iodization. We analyzed two national databases in China: Hospital Quality Monitoring System (HQMS) and China Reinsurance Company (CRC) database. HQMS covered 1037 (44.3%) Class 3 hospitals and 76 263 617 Class 3 hospital inpatients in 2013 to 2017 and CRC covered 93 123 018 clients in 2000 to 2016. The proportion of TC inpatients among inpatients in HQMS and TC incidence in critical illness insurance buyers were used to evaluate the association with screening and iodine status. Between 2013 and 2017, the proportion of TC patients in HQMS with urban employee medical insurance and good access to screening increased sharply while there was little change among those with the other two forms of medical insurance. Across provinces, the proportion of TC inpatients in HQMS was positively correlated with per capita disposable income but not with median urinary iodine. Similar findings were observed in the CRC database. In 2017, approximately 1000 individuals were overdiagnosed with TC daily. We conservatively forecast that 5.1 million healthy individuals would become TC patients unnecessarily between 2019 and 2030. Our findings suggested the epidemic of TC in China was substantially underestimated. It was associated with screening but not with salt iodization.
History of Solid Polymer Electrolyte‐Based Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries: A Personal Account
Authors: Zhang Heng , Armand Michel
Published: September 2020

Solid‐state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs) are believed to be important pathway to overcome the limitations that state‐of‐the‐art lithium‐ion batteries face in terms of safety and energy density. In addition to transporting ionic species in solid‐state configuration, solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are structurally designable and processable, and have been deemed as an auspicious kind of solid electrolyte to access highly‐performant SSLMBs. In this essay, we provide a historical overview on the development of SPE‐based SSLMBs, aiming to highlight the main achievements being made at both material and cell levels. It is hoped that the personal reflection and retrospect presented in this essay give an impetus to inspire the discovery of tantalizing battery materials and improve the overall performance of SPE‐based SSLMBs and other emerging battery technologies.
Does duration of cryostorage affect survival rate, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes? Large‐scale single‐center study of slush nitrogen (SN2) vitrified‐warmed blastocysts
Authors: Lee Hye Nam , Park Jae Kyun , Paek Soo Kyung , Byun Ji Hyun , Song Haengseok , Lee Hee Jun , Chang Eun Mi , Kim Ji Won , Lee Woo Sik , Lyu Sang Woo
Published: September 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effects of the duration of cryostorage on clinical outcomes after embryo transfer of vitrified blastocysts stored in an open‐device slush‐nitrogen (SN2) system.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out on 1632 autologous vitrified‐warmed blastocyst transfer cycles between January 2013 and June 2014. Duration of cryostorage was divided into four groups: Group I: 0–6 months (n=937); Group II: 7–12 months (n=299); Group III: 13–24 months (n=165); and Group IV: ≥25 months (n=231). The effects of the duration of cryostorage on the survival rate (SR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), and neonatal outcomes of vitrified blastocysts stored in an open‐device SN2 system were evaluated.

Results

There were no significant differences between groups in SR, CPR, LBR, and neonatal outcomes after autologous vitrified‐warmed blastocyst transfer. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no effect on LBR from duration of cryostorage.

Conclusion

Vitrification using SN2 and long‐term cryostorage in an open‐device system are safe and effective and do not significantly affect clinical outcomes after embryo transfer.
Surgical management of cervical cancer in a resource‐limited setting: One year of data from the National Cancer Institute, Sri Lanka
Authors: Patabendige Malitha , Wijesinghe Rajitha D. , Wijesuriya M.W.A.B. , Hapuachchige Chinthana
Published: September 2020

Objective

To evaluate the surgical management of cervical cancer without the use of preoperative pelvic imaging in a resource‐limited setting.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out using clinical records and the ongoing electronic database at the Gynaecological Oncology Unit, National Cancer Institute (Apeksha Hospital), Maharagama, Sri Lanka. Details regarding the radical hysterectomies carried out from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019, were retrospectively studied.

Results

Out of nearly 700 patients with cervical cancer admitted during the year 2019, 57 surgically managed radical hysterectomies were included. Of these, seven cases were ineligible and excluded and 50 cases of radical hysterectomies were included for analysis. Mean age was 53.6 ± 9.5 years and median parity was 3 (range 2–4). Of the cases, 94% were found to have no parametrial involvement showing the success of clinical examination in assessing local tumor spread. Overall, 11 (22.0%) were upstaged due to lymph node metastasis that was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Preoperative clinical staging is a practical method in selecting surgically treatable cervical cancer in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Combining clinical assessment with comparatively more readily available computed tomography scans could be helpful in triaging patients for treatment of cervical cancer in LMICs.
New approach to the risk variables for administration of fibrinogen in patients with postpartum hemorrhage by using cluster analysis
Authors: Yilmaz Emsal P. T. , Celik Yusuf , Topdagi Yunus E. , Guzel Ali I. , Al Ragıp A.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To analyze all the variables in women who received fibrinogen for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) using hierarchical cluster analysis, to provide greater insight into the risk variables involved in these women.

Methods

This retrospective study of women with at least 500 mL of bleeding at birth or during the postpartum period and treated with fibrinogen was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atatürk University School of Medicine from January 2013 to January 2018. Data on the women were obtained from medical records and various risk variables were recorded and analyzed using hierarchical cluster analysis.

Results

A total of 114 women with PPH were included in the study. Based on a dendrogram, three main clusters of similar quality variables were created: 1) gravida, parity, age, cervical/vaginal hematoma, laparotomy, hypogastric artery ligation, uterine artery embolization, uterine artery ligation, uterine atony, distance from outer center, lowest hemoglobin, preoperative platelets, endometritis, preoperative white blood cells; 2) lowest fibrinogen, highest fibrinogen, type of birth, placenta invasion anomaly, Bakri balloon tamponade, postpartum hysterectomy, preoperative activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), preoperative international normalized ratio (INR), placental abruption, in‐utero ex fetus; 3) postoperative APTT, postoperative INR, maternal mortality, erythrocyte transfusion, plasma transfusion, hospital stay time, disseminated intravascular coagulation/HELLP syndrome, highest hemoglobin, blood group, postoperative platelets, platelet transfusion, pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia, fibrinogen extract.

Conclusion

According to the cluster analysis, we should keep fibrinogen extract in the foreground especially in the treatment of hemorrhage in patients with variable conditions. As a result, we can determine whether fibrinogen extract, which has a high economic cost, should be kept at each center. We can also direct which patient will be referred in accordance with the referral steps.
Brain tumor diagnosis based on metaheuristics and deep learning
Authors: Hu An , Razmjooy Navid
Published: September 2020

The high mortality rate associated with brain tumors requires early detection in the early stages to treat and reduce mortality. Due to the complexity of brain tissue, manual diagnosis of the brain and tumor tissues is very time‐consuming and operator dependent. Furthermore, there is a need for experts who can review the images to detect these effects, rendering traditional methods inefficient in their presence. Therefore, the use of automated procedures for the careful examination of tumors can prove useful. In this study, a new metaheuristic‐based system is presented for the early detection of brain tumors. The proposed method implements three main steps, namely tumor segmentation, feature extraction, and classification based on a deep belief network. An improved version of the seagull optimization algorithm is adopted for optimal selection of the features and classification of the images. The simulation results of the proposed method are compared with a few existing methods. The final results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits superior performance in terms of the CDR, FAR, and FRR indices compared with the other methods.
Vasculoprotective and Cardioprotective Mechanisms of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibition: The Homeostatic Balance Between Angiotensin II and Nitric Oxide
Authors: Gibbons Gary H.
Published: September 2020

The ability of the vasculature to modify its geometry in accordance with conditions of its microenvironment—the process of vascular remodeling—is an important pathobiologic process common to vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, restenosis after angioplasty, and hypertension. Vascular remodeling characterizes the natural history of atherosclerosis, contributes to increased vascular resistance, and may contribute to the clinical complications of hypertension. A growing body of evidence indicates that locally generated vasoactive substances such as angiotensin II and nitric oxide are important determinants of the natural history of vascular disease. In particular, angiotensin II may promote vascular lesion formation by increasing vascular cell population via increased cell growth and decreased programmed cell death, and it may also alter extracellular matrix composition. Thus, angiotensin II is a pleiotropic local mediator capable of modulating cell growth, programmed cell death, migration of vascular smooth muscle cells, and extracellular matrix modulation, all of which are biologic mechanisms of vascular remodeling and intimal formation. This is proposed to occur via a local tissue angiotensin system. Angiotensin II may also promote chronic hypertension by modulating the vascular redox state and promoting the catabolism of the endothelium‐derived nitric oxide, an endogenous inhibitory vasodilator. Because angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) is strategically positioned to influence the activity of at least three local vasoactive systems—angiotensin II, nitric oxide, and bradykinin—blocking ACE with ACE inhibition may have profound effects on ventricular and vascular structure and function, and have particular efficacy in preventing the morbidity and mortality of vascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Endothelial Function, Fibrinolysis, and Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibition
Authors: Vaughan Douglas E.
Published: September 2020

Experimental and clinical studies with angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have suggested that these agents may reduce the risk of atherothrombotic events. Recent studies have identified the role of angiotensin II and ACE in the regulation of fibrinolysis. There is now substantial evidence that the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in the regulation of vascular fibrinolytic balance. This recently recognized relationship may contribute to the vasculoprotective effects of ACE inhibitors.
Plaque Disruption and Coronary Thrombosis: New Insight into Pathogenesis and Prevention
Authors: Shah Prediman K.
Published: September 2020

Clinical and pathologic studies have confirmed that disruption or superficial erosion of atherosclerotic plaque is the major cause of coronary thrombosis, which is the primary mechanism responsible for acute coronary syndromes of unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death. Serial angiographic studies have shown that nearly 60–70% of acute coronary syndromes evolve from mildly to moderately obstructive atherosclerotic plaques. The risk of plaque disruption appears to be a function of both plaque vulnerability (intrinsic factors) and extrinsic triggers, and is determined largely by the size of the lipid‐rich atheromatous core, the thickness of the fibrous cap covering the core, and the presence of ongoing inflammation within and underneath the cap. Hemodynamic or mechanical stresses may precipitate plaque disruption, particularly in places where the fibrous cap is weakest, such as the shoulders. The degree of thrombosis following plaque disruption depends on the thrombogenicity of the disrupted plaque, the disturbed local rheology, and the systemic thrombotic‐thrombolytic milieu. Surges in sympathetic activity (such as those provoked by sudden vigorous exercise, emotional stress, or cold weather) may also trigger plaque disruption. These observations have led to the concept of plaque stabilization as a new strategy for the prevention of acute coronary syndromes. Plaque stabilization can be achieved through pharmacologic and lifestyle‐modifying interventions that alter plaque composition and/or inflammatory activity within the plaque and thus reduce its vulnerability to disruption.