bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of symptoms in different stages of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and their impact on social participation
Authors: Houwen‐van Opstal Saskia L. S. , Heutinck Lotte , Jansen Merel , Krom Yvonne D. , Cup Edith H. C. , Hendriksen Jos G. M. , Willemsen Michel A. A. P. , Verschuuren Jan J. G. M. , Niks Erik H. , de Groot Imelda J. M.
Published: August 2021

Introduction/Aims

As life expectancy improves for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), new symptoms are likely to arise. This aims of this study are: (1) to explore the prevalence of a broad variety of symptoms in the various stages of DMD (with and without steroid use); (2) to explore the prevalence of common secondary diagnoses; and (3) to evaluate the social participation level of patients with DMD older than 16 y of age; and to explore correlations between social participation and symptoms.

Methods

A cross‐sectional self‐report questionnaire, including questions on functional level and health status, as well as a standardized participation scale was distributed among Dutch patients with DMD.

Results

Eighty‐four male patients with a mean age of 22.0 (SD = 10.0) y were enrolled. The most prevalent and limiting symptoms were difficulty coughing (58%), coldness of hands (57%), contractures (51%), stiffness (49%), fatigue (40%), myalgia (38%), and low speech volume (33%). Prevalent secondary diagnoses included cardiac disease (14%), neurobehavioral diagnosis (13%), low blood pressure (13%), and arthrosis (5%). Social participation correlated negatively with coldness of hands (r = − .29; P < .03), decreased intelligibility (r = − .40; P < .003), and chewing problems (r = − .33; P < .02).

Discussion

The prevalence of a broad spectrum of symptoms and secondary diagnoses is high in patients with DMD, and some of these symptoms are correlated with social participation. Growing awareness of new symptoms and secondary diagnoses among patients, caregivers, and professionals can enhance their recognition, possibly facilitating prevention and early treatment.
Dysfunctional voiding behavior and impaired muscle contractility in a rat model of detrusor underactivity
Authors: Gonzalez Eric J. , Odom Michael R. , Hannan Johanna L. , Grill Warren M.
Published: August 2021

Aims

Detrusor underactivity (DU) is an understudied health concern with inadequate clinical management. The pathophysiology of DU is unclear, and current therapies fail to improve symptoms. The current studies characterized voiding function and contractility of bladder and urethral tissues in a novel rat model of DU.

Methods

Female obese prone (OP) and obese resistant (OR) rats were fed a 60 kcal% fat diet at 8 weeks old. A subset of rats (n = 4/strain) underwent uroflowmetry biweekly for 18 weeks in metabolic cages. At 40–56 weeks old, rats (n = 9–10/strain) underwent instrumented cystometry under urethane anesthesia. Following cystometry, bladder and urethral tissues (n = 8–9/strain) were harvested for in vitro assessments of contractility in response to carbachol, electric field stimulation, atropine, alpha, beta‐methylene ATP, and caffeine.

Results

OP rats exhibited increased urinary frequency (p = 0.0031), decreased voided volume (p = 0.0093), and urine flow rate (p = 0.0064) compared to OR rats during uroflowmetry. Bethanechol (10 mg/kg) did not alter uroflowmetry parameters. During cystometry, OP rats exhibited decreased bladder emptying efficiency (p < 0.0001), decreased pressure to generate a void (p < 0.0001), and increased EUS activity during filling (p = 0.0011). Bladder contractility was decreased in OP rats when exposed to carbachol (p < 0.0003) and ATP (p = 0.0004), whereas middle urethral contractility was increased when exposed to carbachol (p = 0.0014), EFS (p = 0.0289), and caffeine (p = 0.0031).

Conclusion

Impaired cholinergic and purinergic signaling in the bladder may contribute to poor voiding function in OP rats. In addition, increased urethral activity may engage a guarding reflex to augment continence and exacerbate incomplete emptying.
Pigs in the Neolithic of the Eastern Fertile Crescent: New evidence from Pre‐Pottery Neolithic Bestansur and Shimshara, Iraqi Kurdistan (7800–7100 BC)
Authors: de Groene Donna , Bendrey Robin , Matthews Roger
Published: August 2021

Pigs are one of the earliest domesticated livestock species, first domesticated at least 10,000 years ago. The domestication of wild boar, including associated morphological changes, is a long process over several millennia. Across Southwest Asia, management, domestication, and the adaption of the different livestock species was a highly localized process, influenced by both cultural and environmental factors.

This paper explores the size, age, and diet of the suids of the Pre‐Pottery Neolithic sites of Bestansur and Shimshara in order to further our understanding of the origins of suid management in the Neolithic Eastern Fertile Crescent. Our data suggest that the relationship between wild boar and humans was more complex than a strict hunter–prey relationship. This study demonstrates that the Neolithic in the Zagros was not uniform in the adaption and exploitation of different animals.
Practicable self‐healing polyurethane binder for energetic composites combining thermo‐reversible DA action and shape‐memory effect
Authors: Li Yubin , Yang Zhijian , Zhao Xu , Zhang Jianhu , Ding Ling , Pan Liping , Lin Congmei , Zheng Xue
Published: August 2021

A novel thermally mendable polyurethane binder for energetic composites was designed and prepared via the Diels‐Alder (DA) cycloaddition reaction between a furan functionalized polycaprolactone (PCL) prepolymer and a bismaleimide compound. The structures and properties of synthesized PCL‐DA‐PU were fully characterized via Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H‐NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) measurements. As‐prepared material showed good self‐healing ability of scratches by virtue of combining the shape recovery effect of PCL segments favoring scratch closure with the re‐crosslinking of the cleaved DA bonds, which was evidenced by optical microscopy and tensile analysis. A scratch healing efficiency determined by tensile tests of about 89% was achieved. Moreover, with the contribution of DA bonds in PCL‐DA‐PU binder, the microcracks and other damages in the TATB based energetic composites were almost mended and the mechanical strength can recovery above 78%.
The effect of two different UV absorbers combined with antioxidants on UV resistance of HDPE
Authors: Jiang Tiankai , Mao Zepeng , Qi Yanli , Wu Yuchen , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2021

In order to improve the aging resistance of HDPE, antioxidants (Irganox1010 and Irgafos168) are combined with UV absorber (UV‐326 or UV‐531). Analyses of ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy show that UV‐326 has a better capacity of UV absorbance, but easier to migrate to the HDPE surface due to the bigger difference of solubility parameter with HDPE than UV‐531. The mechanical property indicates a better synergistic effect between UV‐531 and antioxidants. With the single addition of antioxidant, the mechanical property sharply decreased to low level during irradiation for 200 h. With single addition of UV absorber, the elongation at break of the sample can still be maintained at about 700% until irradiation for 600 h. When two different UV absorbers are used in combination with antioxidants, HDPE with UV‐326 maintains high mechanical property when irradiated for 1200 h, while the samples containing UV‐531 still maintain good mechanical property when irradiated for 1600 h.
SARS‐CoV‐2 persistence in immunocompromised children
Authors: Dolan Susan A. , Mulcahy Levy Jean , Moss Angela , Pearce Kelly , Butler Molly , Jung Sarah , Dominguez Samuel R. , Mwangi Eric , Maloney Kelly , Rao Suchitra
Published: August 2021

Objectives

We evaluated the length of time immunocompromised children (ICC) remain positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), identified factors associated with viral persistence, and determined cycle threshold (CT) values of children with viral persistence as a surrogate of viral load.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of ICC at a pediatric hospital from March 2020 to March 2021. Immunocompromised status was defined as primary, secondary, or acquired due to medical comorbidities/immunosuppressive treatment. The primary outcome was time to first of two consecutive negative SARS‐CoV‐2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests at least 24 hours apart. Testing of sequential clinical specimens from the same subject was conducted using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) 2019‐nCoV real‐time reverse transcriptase (RT)‐PCR Diagnostic Panel assay. Descriptive statistics, Kaplan–Meier curve median event times and log‐rank tests were used to compare outcomes between groups.

Results

Ninety‐one children met inclusion criteria. Median age was 15.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] 8–18), 64% were male, 58% were White, and 43% were Hispanic/Latinx. Most (67%) were tested in outpatient settings and 58% were asymptomatic. The median time to two negative tests was 42 days (IQR 25.0–55.0), with no differences in median time by illness presentation or level of immunosuppression. Seven children had more than one sample available for repeat testing, and five of seven (71%) children had initial CT values of <30 (moderate to high viral load); four children had CT values of <30, 3–4 weeks later, suggesting persistent moderate to high viral loads.

Conclusions

Most ICC with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection had mild disease, with prolonged viral persistence >6 weeks and moderate to high viral load.
In vivo evaluation of the lysine‐specific demethylase (KDM1A/LSD1) inhibitor SP‐2577 (Seclidemstat) against pediatric sarcoma preclinical models: A report from the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium (PPTC)
Authors: Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Erickson Stephen W. , Han Ruolan , Teicher Beverly A. , Smith Malcolm A. , Roth Michael , Gorlick Richard , Houghton Peter J.
Published: August 2021

SP‐2577(Seclidemstat), an inhibitor of lysine‐specific demthylase KDM1A (LSD1) that is overexpressed in pediatric sarcomas, was evaluated against pediatric sarcoma xenografts. SP‐2577 (100 mg/kg/day × 28 days) statistically significantly (p < .05) inhibited growth of three of eight Ewing sarcoma (EwS), four of five rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), and four of six osteosarcoma (OS) xenografts. The increase in EFS T/C was modest (<1.5) for all models except RMS Rh10 (EFS T/C = 2.8). There were no tumor regressions or consistent changes in dimethyl histone H3(K4), HOXM1, DAX1, c‐MYC and N‐MYC, or tumor histology/differentiation. SP‐2577 has limited activity against these pediatric sarcoma models at the dose and schedule evaluated.
Proton pump inhibitors long term use‐trends and patterns over 15 years of a large health maintenance organization
Authors: Rosenberg Vered , Tzadok Roie , Chodick Gabriel , Kariv Revital
Published: August 2021

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are used for a variety of indications. Despite reported associations with undesirable effects, their long‐term use is on the rise, while appropriate indications, dose, and treatment duration may deviate from guideline recommendations.

Objectives

Primary to examine the annual patterns of PPI use. Secondary‐ to assess indications for initiating PPI treatment, long‐term use, and factors associated with long‐term use in a large Israeli health maintenance organization.

Methods

A historical cohort study of 528 420 eligible PPI users during 2000–2015, analyzed PPI use using defined daily doses and the proportion of patients covered method. Data on indications for treatment initiation, clinical and socio‐demographic parameters were captured as well. A multivariable logistic‐regression model was used to identify factors associated with long‐term use of PPI.

Results

The annual incidence rates of patients initiating PPI treatment were relatively constant, ranging between 2.4% and 3.1% of the adult population, with a monotonic increase in annual consumption and prevalence (reaching 12.7% in 2015). Reflux, functional symptoms, and Helicobacter pylori eradication were the most common indications for initiating PPI therapy. However, 27% of patients had no recorded indication for treatment. Fifteen percent of patients used PPI for over 6 months, especially in older age groups.

Conclusions

Utilization of PPI increases steadily, mainly due to chronic use. Prolonged consumption is associated with specific clinical indications and older age. Health organizations should encourage awareness of appropriate use among physicians, specifically in the elderly, patients with reflux, and those with functional disorders.
Study on highly thermostable low‐k polymer films based on fluorene‐containing polyetherimides
Authors: Olariu Marius Andrei , Hamciuc Corneliu , Asandulesa Mihai , Hamciuc Elena , Epure Elena‐Luiza , Tsakiris Violeta , Lisa Gabriela
Published: August 2021

Highly thermostable low‐k polymer films with potential applications as dielectric materials in microelectronic industry were synthesized starting from 9,9‐bis[4‐(3,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy)phenyl]fluorene dianhydride and various diamines. A polyetherimide/silica nanocomposite film was obtained using methyltriethoxysilane as precursor of inorganic phase. The chemical structure was confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Water vapor's sorption capacity, thermal stability, glass transition temperature, thermal diffusivity, specific heat, thermal conductivity, and dielectric characteristics of the films were determined. All the films exhibited excellent thermal stability, with an initial decomposition temperature in the range of 500–530°C. They showed low dielectric constant of 1.98–2.86 and low dielectric loss of 0.0037–0.011, at a frequency of 1 Hz and room temperature. The subglass γ‐ and β‐relaxations, primary α‐relaxation, and conductivity relaxation processes were discussed according to the chemical structure of the samples. Quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) study was conducted, and linear regression models were formulated to describe the causal relationships between different parameters and polyetherimide properties.
RapiGest precipitation depends on peptide concentration
Authors: Mosen Peter R. , Hardt Robert , Winter Dominic
Published: August 2021

The mass spectrometry‐compatible surfactant RapiGest promotes the enzymatic digestion of proteins by facilitating their unfolding while retaining enzymatic activity. RapiGest consists of a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail, which can be separated by acid hydrolysis. This allows for removal of RapiGest prior to mass spectrometric analysis via precipitation and solid phase extraction. During in‐solution digestion experiments with RapiGest, we noticed a high variability in the formation of precipitates after acid hydrolysis, implying that RapiGest precipitation is sample‐dependent. We show that RapiGest hydrolyses efficiently under acidic conditions and that differences in precipitation are solely due to protein/peptide concentration. Furthermore, we demonstrate that RapiGest precipitation can be triggered by the addition of intact proteins, providing a strategy for its efficient removal from highly diluted samples. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025982.
A density functional theory study of the reactions of furans with substituted alkynes to form oxanorbornadienes and subsequent [4 + 2] and [2 + 2 + 2] addition reactions
Authors: Samba Wisdom Kwaku , Tia Richard , Adei Evans
Published: August 2021

This work investigated theoretically, at the M06/6‐311++G(d,p) level of theory, the Diels–Alder reactions of furan with substituted alkynes to afford oxanorbornadienes and the subsequent [4 + 2] and [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition reactions leading to the formation of heterocyclic furans, deltacyclenes, and bicyclic oxanorbornadienes, which have high utility in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The results show that in the initial Diels–Alder reactions to afford oxanorbornadiene intermediates, reactions of alkynes bearing electron‐withdrawing substituents have lower activation barriers compared with those with electron‐donating substituents. In the [4 + 2] reactions of the oxanorbornadiene intermediates to form bicyclic oxanorbornadienes, oxanorbornadienes with electron‐donating groups favor addition across the unsubstituted olefinic bond, whereas those with electron‐withdrawing substituents favor addition across the substituted double bond, but in both cases, the exo stereoisomer is favored. The regioselectivity of the reactions are strictly dictated by the nature of substituent on oxanorbornadiene. The retrocleavage step, regardless of the addition sequence and nature of substituents, is the rate‐determining step. For the reactions of substituted oxanorbornadienes with furan along the [4 + 2] cycloaddition and the [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition (dimerization) of substituted oxanorbornadienes, we observed a decrease in activation barriers when electron‐withdrawing substituents are involved. The global electrophilicity indices (ω) and maximum electronic charge transfer (ΔNmax) computed for various oxanorbornadiene derivatives considered in this work is consistent with energetic trends and experimental outcomes. Perturbation molecular orbital theory was employed to rationalize the results.
Using DP4+ probability for structure elucidation of sesquiterpenic lactones: The case of (−)‐Istanbulin A
Authors: Colasurdo Diego D. , Arancibia Luz A. , Naspi Mariana L. , Laurella Sergio L.
Published: August 2021

Theoretical calculations have become a crucial support for experimental data when it comes to confirming and/or rejecting molecular structure. Quantum calculations have therefore become essential for other research fields, such as total synthesis of natural products or the study of their mechanisms of action, among others. In this communication, four different parameters are used for the confirmation of the structure of (−)‐Istanbulin A, testing the experimental NMR data against eight possible stereoisomers. (−)‐Istanbulin A is a natural product (an eremophilane) extracted from the aerial parts of Senecio filaginoides DC (an endemic plant from Patagonia Argentina) that has proven successful as antibacterial and antifungal agent. The structures of the eight possible stereoisomers were optimized by means of DFT calculations (B3LYP/6‐311+G[d,p] in vacuum), and then their isotropic shielding tensors were obtained using GIAO‐B3LYP/6‐31+G(d,p) method in chloroform. Isotropic shielding values of 1H and 13C were converted into chemical shifts by subtraction of TMS analog values. The eight sets of calculated data were compared with the spectroscopic chemical shifts in order to find the most probable structure. This was made by means of the parameters R2 (correlation coefficient), MAE (mean absolute error), CMAE (corrected mean absolute error), and DP4+ probability. While R2, MAE, and CMAE afford uncertain results which do not permit confirmation of the molecular structure, DP4+ predicts the isomer of configuration (4S,5R,8R,10S) with more than 99% probability. These results open the possibility of applying DP4+ method for confirming the relative configuration of other istanbulins (and probably other eremophilanes).
Characterization of polymeric surfaces and interfaces using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Mei Hao , Laws Travis S. , Terlier Tanguy , Verduzco Rafael , Stein Gila E.
Published: August 2021

Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) is used for chemical analysis of surfaces. ToF‐SIMS is a powerful tool for polymer science because it detects a broad mass range with good mass resolution, thereby distinguishing between polymers that have similar elemental compositions and/or the same types of functional groups. Chemical labeling techniques that enhance contrast, such as deuterating or staining one constituent, are generally unnecessary. ToF‐SIMS can generate both two‐dimensional images and three‐dimensional depth profiles, where each pixel in an image is associated with a complete mass spectrum. This Review begins by introducing the principles of ToF‐SIMS measurements, including instrumentation, modes of operation, strategies for data analysis, and strengths/limitations when characterizing polymer surfaces. The sections that follow describe applications in polymer science that benefit from characterization by ToF‐SIMS, including thin films and coatings, polymer blends, composites, and electronic materials. The examples selected for discussion showcase the three standard modes of operation (spectral analysis, imaging, and depth profiling) and highlight practical considerations that relate to experimental design and data processing. We conclude with brief comments about broader opportunities for ToF‐SIMS in polymer science.
Barriers to cancer care for people with significant mental health difficulties: What healthcare staff say?
Authors: D’Alton Paul , O’Meara Rachel , Langford Seán , McDonnell Zoe , Nuzum Ann , Murthy Varsha Eswara , Craddock Fiona , Cogley Clodagh , McCormack Derval
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Despite similar rates in cancer morbidity, patients with comorbid significant mental health difficulties (SMHD) experience higher mortality rates. This population has largely been neglected in cancer care research. Little is known about how to improve cancer outcomes for patients with SMHD. The aim of this research is to explore the views of healthcare professionals concerning the provision of cancer care to individuals with SMHD in an Irish context.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals (n = 28) providing care to people with SMHD and cancer. This included oncology and psychiatry consultants (n = 10); clinical nurse specialists (n = 8); clinical psychologists (n = 6); and medical social workers (n = 4). Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four overarching themes were generated from the data highlighting the challenges associated with healthcare provision for this cohort. The themes were: Fragmentation of Care, Healthcare Providers' Understanding of SMHD, Complex Nature of Presentation, and Specialised Care Needs.

Conclusions

The findings contribute to advancing our understanding of cancer care provision for patients with SMHD. They identify important barriers and facilitators to cancer care provision for this population from the perspective of healthcare professionals in Ireland. These findings will help to shape future research and contribute to improving the quality‐of‐care for people with SMHD and cancer.
Are family relationships associated with family conflict in advanced cancer patients?
Authors: Hamano Jun , Masukawa Kento , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Morita Tatsuya , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Family conflict during end‐of‐life care is an important issue for advanced cancer patients and their families, although studies are lacking. We investigated the association between family relationships and family conflict in advanced cancer patients.

Methods

This study was a secondary analysis of a nationwide multicenter questionnaire survey targeting the bereaved family members of cancer patients who died in palliative care units, general wards, or at home to evaluate the quality of end‐of‐life care in Japan.

Results

A total of 1084 questionnaires (63.0%) were returned and we analyzed a total of 908 responses. In total, 38.0% of family members reported at least one family conflict during end‐of‐life care, and the most frequent family conflict was “about certain family members not pulling their weight” (23.5%). Multivariate linear analysis revealed family members who asserted their opinions (p < 0.001), family assessment device score (p < 0.001), worries about family finances during cancer treatment (p < 0.001), family members contacted after illness were helpful (p = 0.003), female patients (p = 0.03), and family with family relationship index ≤7 (p = 0.04) were positively associated with the outcome‐family conflict (OFC) score. Proxy decision maker was selected by the patient (p = 0.003), people listened to families' worries or problems (p = 0.003), physician gave sufficient explanation (p = 0.003), living will before their illness (p = 0.038) and female bereaved family members (p = 0.046) were negatively associated with the OFC score.

Conclusions

It may be important for health care providers to actively assess the possibility of family conflicts according to family relationships, such as a proxy decision maker having been selected by the patient.
Risk factors for suicide mortality and cancer‐specific mortality among patients with gastric adenocarcinoma: A SEER based study
Authors: Elshanbary Alaa Ahmed , Zaazouee Mohamed Sayed , Hasan Sara Mohamed , Abdel‐Aziz Walid
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study aims to investigate the risk factors for suicide in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) to recognize patients at higher risk who require special mental health care.

Methods

Patients' data were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1975 to 2016. The relationships among categorical variables were assessed using Person's chi‐square test. Standardized mortality ratio was used to compare ratios of suicide and other causes of death between the US population and adenocarcinoma patients. Cox regression and Kaplan‐Meier were used for multivariate and univariate analyses. The probability of suicide was assessed using the binary regression analysis. All analyses were conducted using SPSS software.

Results

Among 59,580 patients included in this study, 86 died due to suicide. The mean survival months was higher in patients <50 years (81.759) than in patients ≥50 years (42.961), and in females (49.116) than in males (44.591). The multivariate analysis showed a higher suicide mortality risk in divorced patients (HR = 2.461; 95% CI [1.015, 5.966], p = 0.046), patients not recommended for surgery (HR = 1.997; 95% CI [1.08, 3.694], p = 0.027) and patients with distant stage of the disease (HR = 2.68; 95% CI [1.395, 5.147], p = 0.003). Females had a lower suicide mortality risk (HR = 0.124; 95% CI [0.045, 0.314], p < 0.001).

Conclusion

GAS predisposes to suicide. The risk is higher in patients who are males, divorced, not recommended for surgery, or have a distant spread of the disease.
Mediastinal and neck follicular dendritic cell sarcoma treated with definitive radiation therapy using the volumetric modulated arc therapy technique: a case report
Authors: Calcuttawala Adnan , Deshmane Nilesh , Pol Jaydeep , Desai Sharad
Published: August 2021

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) is a rare malignancy that affects the nodal and extranodal tissues. The mediastinum is a rare site for this tumor, with few published reports and series. Although surgery is the mainstay of treatment for this disease entity, in this report we present a case of mediastinal FDCS treated with definitive radiation therapy (RT) with a near‐total radiological response. A 28‐year‐old woman presented with chest tightness and neck swelling. Radiological findings were suggestive of a conglomerated nodal mass involving the mediastinum and extending superiorly into the anterior neck. Biopsy results led to a diagnosis of FDCS. The tumor was deemed unresectable, and definitive RT was planned as the treatment. The patient was treated with volumetric modulated arc therapy to a total dose of 54 Gy in 30 fractions over 6 weeks. Her symptoms had completely resolved at the first follow‐up visit, 3 months after RT completion, with a near‐total radiological response on a contrast‐enhanced computed tomography scan. Although surgery is the standard of care in FDCS, based on the favorable response of FDCS to RT, as in this case, the role of definitive RT needs to be studied in more patients to determine its efficacy in long‐term tumor control as an alternative to surgery.
Area‐population control of fungus‐growing termite,Odontotermes formosanus, using hexaflumuron durable baits
Authors: Chiu Chun‐I , Chuang Ya‐Hui , Liang Wei‐Ren , Yeh Hsin‐Ting , Yang Hsiao‐Ying , Tsai Ming‐Jer , Spomer Neil A , Li Hou‐Feng
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Fungus‐growing termites (Termitidae: Macrotermitinae) are common forest and agriculture pests. To evaluate the efficacy of termite baiting in suppressing field population of fungus‐growing termites, a durable termite bait with hexaflumuron was evenly installed in a one‐hectare forest area dominated by a fungus‐growing termite,Odontotermes formosanus(Shiraki). Monthly monitoring of termite foraging activity on baits and wood stakes was conducted for 4 years to quantify efficacy of baits. To examine whether the hexaflumuron led to colony death, pesticides in fungus gardens of active and deceased nests were quantified using a LC‐QTOF/MS.

RESULTS

After baiting, 50% and 90% of baits were fed upon 10 and 24 months, respectively. After 2 years of baiting, the monthly number of wood stakes occupied by termites was reduced from 34.7 ± 1.8 to 17.6 ± 2.5 (−49.1%), and the number of wood stakes consumed was reduced from 17.7 ± 0.8 to 13.3 ± 1.2 (−25.7%). Hexaflumuron was detected in deceased colonies, including five of six fungus gardens and the fungal tissue ofXyleriagrown on fungus gardens, with a concentration of 0.31–20.11 mg kg−1dry weight.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that durable hexaflumuron baits consumed by fungus‐growing termites were further incorporated into fungus gardens, resulted in colony elimination and negative area‐population effects, supporting that durable hexaflumuron baits are effective in suppressing field populations of fungus‐growing termites. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Organic Electro‐Optic Mach–Zehnder Modulators: From Physics‐Based to System‐Level Modeling
Authors: Tibaldi Alberto , Ghomashi Mohammadamin , Bertazzi Francesco , Goano Michele , Vallone Marco , Ghione Giovanni
Published: August 2021

Herein, an overview on the physics‐based and system‐oriented modeling of organic electro‐optic Mach–Zehnder modulators for optical communication systems is presented. State‐of‐the‐art solutions in electro‐optic organic materials and modulator designs are reviewed, with particular stress on silicon organic hybrid (SOH) and plasmonic organic hybrid (POH) solutions. Then, the physics‐based simulation of concentrated and traveling‐wave modulators is discussed both through 3D optical simulations and a combination of 2D and 3D models, where the modulator is partitioned into convenient subdomains. Neural network behavioral models are finally discussed and case studies are proposed on the physics‐based and system‐level simulation of SOH and POH Mach–Zehnder modulators.
Fabrication and Transport Characteristics of YBCO Step‐Edge‐Based Josephson Junction on Revived MgO Substrate
Authors: Dahiya Mamta , Prakash Pal Satyendra , Khare Neeraj
Published: August 2021

Herein, the combined impact of ion beam milling and postannealing treatment on the transport properties of deposited YBa2Cu3Ox (YBCO) thin film and fabricated step‐edge Josephson junction (JJ) on degraded MgO (100) substrates are investigated, and the obtained results of the YBCO thin film and fabricated step‐edge JJ on treated MgO (100) substrate are compared with the YBCO film and step‐edge junction on a fresh MgO substrate. Structural study reveals the formation of c‐axis‐oriented YBCO thin film on revived MgO substrate which is very much comparable with the YBCO film on fresh substrate. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) technique is used to confirm the step heights of the fabricated step‐edges on fresh, revived, and degraded MgO substrates. After the treatment, the surface roughness of MgO substrate has reduced from 56 to 1.06 nm which is comparable with the fresh MgO (100) substrate. The acquired values of critical temperatures for as‐deposited YBCO thin film on fresh and revived MgO substrates are 89.1 and 88.3 K, respectively, whereas these values are 85.8 and 85.7 K for the fabricated step‐edge junction microbridges on these deposited thin films. For both the fabricated step‐edge junction on the revived and fresh MgO substrate, the superconductor–normal metal–superconductor‐type JJ is confirmed.
Femtosecond Laser Micromachining of Cladding Waveguides in KTiOAsO4 Crystal for Second‐Harmonic Generation
Authors: Li Genglin , Zhang Bin , Sun Lifei , Ren Yingying , Jia Yuechen , Chen Feng
Published: August 2021

Second‐harmonic generation (SHG) of green lasers generated in KTiOAsO4 (KTA) cladding waveguides fabricated by femtosecond laser direct writing (FsLDW) is reported. The minimum propagation loss of the fabricated waveguides is determined to be 2.39 ± 0.24 dB cm−1 at 1064 nm. The SHG performance is characterized by utilizing a 1064 nm pulsed laser. The maximum SHG conversion efficiency reaches 13.67%. This work suggests potential applications of KTA crystals and FsLDW technology in definition of compact waveguide devices for integrated nonlinear optics.
Long‐term effect of sugarcane residue management and chemical fertilization on soil physical properties in South Africa
Authors: Deeb Maha , Grimaldi Michel , Aroui Hanane , Mthimkhulu Sandile , Van Antwerpen Rianto , Podwojewski Pascal
Published: August 2021

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.), an intensive, long‐term, monoculture, economical crop in South Africa, is known to degrade soil characteristics. Soil structure, a key indicator of soil health and biomass production potential, is manageable by agricultural practices. This study aims to evaluate the effect of crop residue management practices (mulching, burning with residues scattered or removed) and mineral fertilization (with or without) on soil structure by analyzing soil shrinkage curves (SSCs) and other soil physical and chemical properties in a long‐term sugarcane trial established in 1939. The SSC provides descriptive structural soil data by differentiating and characterizing two pore systems (plasma and structural pores). By analyzing the SSC of 24 plots (four replicates each treatment), residue management and fertilization practices were found to have statistically and physically significant effects on hydrostructural variables. Partial redundancy analysis showed that residue management practices had a slightly higher effect (19% of total variance) on hydrostructural variables compared with fertilization (12%). The main hydrostructural variables representing the management effect were total soil shrinkage, specific volume, and swelling capacity of the plasma, which were higher in mulched and/or unfertilized plots, indicating that soil was less compact, and shrinkage was more intense, including at the plasma level. The stronger structural dynamics and aggregate stability of the soil were explained by the behavior of the primary aggregates (peds), which were more porous and reactive during the drying process. This study highlights the importance of mulching and limited fertilization to maintain soil structure in the long term while still ensuring yield production.
Gold mining in Ghana and the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Exploring community perspectives on social and environmental injustices
Authors: Essah Marcellinus
Published: August 2021

Although gold mining multinational or transnational companies continue to profit from their activities in resource endowed developing countries, the gap between company profits and social and environmental justice in these resource rich developing countries is a subject of intense debate. This debate is especially heightened when the gap is examined in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This paper employs the Environmental Justice concept to assess the activities of the Goldfields Damang mining company in Ghana vis‐à‐vis the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Drawing on primary data from semi‐structured interviews (n = 22) and secondary sources, the paper finds that the negative impacts of gold mining do not conform with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially goals 2, 6, 14 and 15. The study makes two recommendations: First, policies on land tenure and the Mineral and Mining Act need revisions to incorporate more rights for indigenous people; second, existing structures and legislation that spells out compensation and land dispossession practices must be revised thoroughly to align with the UN sustainable development goals. The paper concludes by considering the theoretical and policy implications of the findings for strengthening mining laws and policies in Ghana.
Positive interventions for stress‐related difficulties: A systematic review of randomized and non‐randomized trials
Authors: Ferrandez Sébastien , Soubelet Andrea , Vankenhove Louna
Published: August 2021

The effectiveness of positive psychology interventions in the treatment of stress‐related difficulties have not been well established. To estimate the effectiveness of positive psychology interventions on the reduction of stress‐related symptoms, a systematic review using PubMed, Scopus, Wiley, Psychinfo, Cochrane and Sage databases with no limitation of date of publication was conducted. We identified additional studies by searching positive psychology reviews and academic books. Only studies trying positive interventions that included measures of anxiety, stress, or posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms were reviewed. We extracted data using predefined data fields and study quality was assessed with the National Institutes of Health study quality assessment tools. Twenty‐nine records were included in this study: 23 controlled trials and six pre‐post studies. Every study showed significant improvement in at least one dimension. Several studies reported improvements in well‐being as well. This review shows promising results of positive psychology interventions as a treatment for stress‐related difficulties. However, important methodological biases and strong heterogeneity among the studies highlight the need for replication and better validation of positive psychology interventions.
A High Rate and Stable Hybrid Li/Na‐Ion Battery Based on a Hydrated Molten Inorganic Salt Electrolyte
Authors: Wang Zhengying , Xu Yue , Peng Jian , Ou Mingyang , Wei Peng , Fang Chun , Li Qing , Huang Jiang , Han Jiantao , Huang Yunhui
Published: August 2021

Taking into the consideration safety, environmental impact, and economic issue, the construction of aqueous batteries based on aqueous electrolyte has become an indispensable technical option for large‐scale electrical energy storage. The narrow electrochemical window is the main problem of conventional aqueous electrolyte. Here, an economical room‐temperature inorganic hydrated molten salt (RTMS) electrolyte with a large electrochemical stability window of 3.1 V is proposed. Compared with organic fluorinated molten salts, RTMS is composed of lithium nitrate hydrate and sodium nitrate with much lower cost. Based on the RTMS electrolyte, a hybrid Li/Na‐ion full battery is fabricated from cobalt hexacyanoferrate cathode (NaCoHCF) and perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA) anode. The full cell with the RTMS electrolyte exhibits a fantastic performance with high capacity of 139 mAh g−1 at 1 C, 90 mAh g−1 at 20 C, and capacity retention of 94.7% over 500 cycles at 3 C. The excellent performances are contributed to the unique properties of RTMS with a large electrochemical window, solvated H2O free and high mobility of Li+, which exhibits excellent Li‐ions insertion and extraction capacity of NaCoHCF. This RTMS cell provides a new economic choice for large‐scale energy storage.
Revealing Nanoscale Confinement Effects on Hyperbolic Phonon Polaritons with an Electron Beam
Authors: Konečná Andrea , Li Jiahan , Edgar James H. , García de Abajo F. Javier , Hachtel Jordan A.
Published: August 2021

Hyperbolic phonon polaritons (HPhPs) in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) enable the direct manipulation of mid‐infrared light at nanometer scales, many orders of magnitude below the free‐space light wavelength. High‐resolution monochromated electron energy‐loss spectroscopy (EELS) facilitates measurement of excitations with energies extending into the mid‐infrared while maintaining nanoscale spatial resolution, making it ideal for detecting HPhPs. The electron beam is a precise source and probe of HPhPs, which allows the observation of nanoscale confinement in HPhP structures and directly extract hBN polariton dispersions for both modes in the bulk of the flake and modes along the edge. The measurements reveal technologically important nontrivial phenomena, such as localized polaritons induced by environmental heterogeneity, enhanced and suppressed excitation due to 2D interference, and strong modification of high‐momenta excitations such as edge‐confined polaritons by nanoscale heterogeneity on edge boundaries. The work opens exciting prospects for the design of real‐world optical mid‐infrared devices based on hyperbolic polaritons.
Boosting Unassisted Alkaline Solar Water Splitting Using Silicon Photocathode with TiO2 Nanorods Decorated by Edge‐Rich MoS2 Nanoplates
Authors: Jun Sang Eon , Hong Seung‐Pyo , Choi Seokhoon , Kim Changyeon , Ji Su Geun , Park Ik Jae , Lee Sol A , Yang Jin Wook , Lee Tae Hyung , Sohn Woonbae , Kim Jin Young , Jang Ho Won
Published: August 2021

To construct a highly efficient photoelectrochemical tandem device with silicon photocathode operating in alkaline conditions, it is desirable to develop stable and active catalysts which enable the photocathode to reliably perform under an alkaline environment. With nanostructured passivation layer and edge‐exposed transition metal disulfides, silicon photocathode provides new opportunities for achieving unbiased alkaline solar water splitting. Here, the TiO2 nanorod arrays decorated by edge‐rich MoS2 nanoplates are elaborately synthesized and deposited on p‐Si. The vertically aligned TiO2 nanorods fully stabilize the Si surface and improve anti‐reflectance. Moreover, MoS2 nanoplates with exposed edge sites provide catalytically active regions resulting in the kinetically favored hydrogen evolution under an alkaline environment. Interfacial energy band bending between p‐Si and catalyst layers facilitates the transport of photogenerated electrons under steady‐state illumination. Consequently, the MoS2 nanoplates/TiO2 nanorods/p‐Si photocathode exhibits significantly improved photoelectrochemical‐hydrogen evolution reaction (PEC‐HER) performance in alkaline media with a high photocurrent density of 10 mA cm−2 at 0 V versus RHE and high stability. By integrating rationally designed photocathode with earth‐abundant Fe60(NiCo)30Cr10 anode and perovskite/Si tandem photovoltaic cell, an unassisted alkaline solar water splitting is accomplished with a current density of 5.4 mA cm−2 corresponding to 6.6% solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency, which is the highest among p‐Si photocathodes.
Informational value of challenging an incumbent prosecutor
Authors: McCannon Bryan C.
Published: August 2021

Popular elections are used to select prosecutors in most U.S. states. It has been questioned whether voters have the knowledge or incentive to identify quality individuals. In 2011, New York State instituted a series of salary increases for judges. Prosecutors' salaries are tied to judicial compensation by law so that an exogenous shock arose. I develop a simple asymmetric information model where a better informed insider can choose to contest the incumbent. Theory predicts that if voters are updating beliefs in a sophisticated manner, then in equilibrium there is not a change in the rate at which incumbents are challenged. When they are challenged, though, incumbents receive more electoral support. Results from the quasi‐natural experiment are consistent with the theory. The incumbent's vote margin grows by ~6 percentage points after the salary increase and the probability an incumbent wins a contested re‐election increases by 33%.
Modulating Photon Harvesting Through Constructing Oxygen Vacancies‐Rich 0D/2D Plasmonic Bi/Bismuth Oxybromide Upconversion Nanosheets Toward Improved Solar Photocatalysis
Authors: Li Yongjin , Wu Zhijie , Liu Tong , Song Zhiguo , Zhang Yueli
Published: August 2021

To harness solar energy comprehensively, developing photocatalysts with a broad spectrum response has received enormous attention. Herein, a full‐spectrum‐responsive Bi/BiOBr:Yb3+,Er3+ (BYE/Bi) heterostructure with oxygen vacancies (OVs) is designed and fabricated using the solvothermal method with subsequent heat treatment. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of Bi metal and OVs can not only extend the light absorption spectra but also promote the charge separation efficiency. The result of upconversion (UC) luminescence shows that the SPR absorption band of Bi nanoparticles overlaps with the excitation and emission bands of BiOBr:Yb3+,Er3+ nanosheets, which can induce a near‐infrared (NIR) plasmonic energy UC process and results in an enhanced green UC luminescence. The photocatalytic BPA degradation test shows that BYE/Bi‐2 shows the best photocatalytic activity, which is about 2.13‐fold, 1.41‐fold, and 2.73‐fold higher than that of BYE under UV−visible (vis)−near infrared (NIR), vis, and NIR light irradiations, respectively. Results reveal that the enhanced photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the Bi SPR effect and UC luminescence of BiOBr:Yb3+,Er3+ nanosheets, as well as the synergistic effects of OVs. This work not only provides ideas for the development of nonmetallic plasmon‐modified UC luminescent materials but also offers a pathway to develop high‐performance full‐spectrum photocatalysts for environmental applications.
Designing an inquiry‐based learning system: Innovating in research praxis to transform science–policy–practice relations for sustainable development
Authors: Ison Ray L. , Collins Kevin B. , Iaquinto Ben L.
Published: August 2021

When designers of activities concerned with the dissemination of research findings pursue their practice all too often, the linear model is implicitly or explicitly the default position. This paper uses the lens of praxis (theory‐informed practical action) to offer a shift in possibility away from reliance on the linear model of innovation to a second‐order modality of research practice more suited to sustainable development goal (SDG) implementation. Whilst second‐order modalities of knowledge production, necessary to enact sustainability transitions and transformative praxis, are emerging many lack purposefully designed modes of praxis and are limited in their considerations regarding enactment and performativity. We report on the testing and evaluation of a purpose‐driven design of a ‘learning system’ within the Australian urban‐water sector to enact a ‘systemic inquiry’ capable of generating social learning. Changes in understanding and/or practices by those who participated were achieved, thus satisfying key criteria for initiating but not necessarily sustaining social learning. The praxis innovation described is suited to situations best framed as uncertain, complex and contested. The positive outcomes of the enacted ‘learning system’ support the case for more investment in action‐oriented research to support innovation in the field of second‐order systems praxis.