bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrogeographic variation of a pond predator's top‐down effects in a common garden environment
Authors: Stemp Kenzi M. , Anderson Thomas L. , Davenport Jon M.
Published: November 2020

Geographic variation in species behavior and life history has been well documented in biology. Species with wide geographic distributions (i.e., across a continent) but small home ranges (i.e., <1 km2) likely experience wide variability in abiotic environments across the entirety of their range, possibly exhibiting strong local adaptation. Understanding variation across a large geographic scale is especially important when considering species that have strong ecological importance, such as keystone species. Yet, few studies have compared the potential cascading ecological effects of a predator with a keystone role in at least part of its range. To understand how keystone ability in pond food webs can vary across a large geographic range, we conducted an artificial pond experiment with a known keystone predator in at least part of its range, the marbled salamander (Ambystoma opacum). To do so, we collected size‐matched salamander larvae from three geographically distant populations (>650 km apart) in Ohio, Mississippi, and North Carolina and placed them in mesocosms with a suite of spring breeding amphibian prey species. We observed differential survival of some prey species leading to differences in spring‐breeding amphibian diversity among the three predator populations, indicating that keystone predation may vary at a geographic scale. Prey diversity was lowest with predators from northern (Ohio) populations of salamanders. Further understanding of large‐scale variability in ecologically important predators and the potential effects of translocating wide‐ranging ambystomatid species is needed to direct future conservation efforts and preserve biodiversity.
A retrospective analysis of setup and intrafraction positional variation in stereotactic radiotherapy treatments
Authors: Barnes Micah , Yeo Adam , Thompson Kenton , Phillips Claire , Kron Tomas , Hardcastle Nicholas
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive assessment of patient intrafraction motion in linac‐based frameless stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and radiotherapy (SRT).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 101 intracranial SRS/SRT patients immobilized with the Klarity stereotactic thermoplastic mask (compatible with the Brainlab frameless stereotactic system) and aligned on a 6 Degree of Freedom (DoF) couch with the Brainlab ExacTrac image guidance system. Both pretreatment and intrafraction correction data are provided as observed by the ExacTrac system. The effects of couch angle and treatment duration on positioning outcomes are also explored.

Results

Initial setup data for patients is shown to vary by up to ±4.18 mm, ±2.97°, but when corrected with a single x‐ray image set with ExacTrac, patient positions are corrected to within ±2.11 mm, ±2.27°. Intrafraction patient motion is shown to be uniformly random and independent of both time and couch angle. Patient motion was also limited to within approximately 3 mm, 3° by the thermoplastic mask.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that since patient intrafraction motion is unrelated to couch rotation and treatment duration, intrafraction patient monitoring in 6 DoF is required to minimize intracranial SRS/SRT margins.
Commentary for special issue of Applied Cognitive Psychology in honor of Alan Scoboria
Authors: Lindsay D. Stephen
Published: November 2020

The world would be a better place if there were more people like Alan. What an extraordinary convergence of kindness, reflectiveness, persistence, ethics, breadth of knowledge, and raw smarts! He positively and substantially contributed to cognitive, clinical, and social psychology, and to the lives of his students and collaborators. This collection carries that legacy forward. Alan would have relished reading every one of these articles. I am honored by the opportunity to comment. I hope to do so in a way that Alan would approve. I begin with a brief reflection on one of the “big picture” ideas in Alan's work. Then I discuss several issues that I know were near and dear to Alan and that have also occupied my own thinking for years. In addition to scientific accounts of true and false beliefs and memories, my comments are informed by the methodological reform movement. As an oldster, I also take this opportunity to mention a few earlier issues/findings that relate to current controversies.
Role of Metrology in Axial Spondyloarthritis: Does It Provide Unique Information in Assessing Patients and Predicting Outcome? Results From the British Society for Rheumatology Biologic Register for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Biallas Renke L. , Dean Linda E. , Davidson Lesley , Hollick Rosemary , Pathan Ejaz , Robertson Lindsay , Jones Gareth T. , Macfarlane Gary J. , Rotariu Ovidiu
Published: November 2020

Objective

To determine among patients with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) the factors associated with decreased spinal mobility and to determine whether poor mobility is a predictor of response to anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapy.

Methods

This was a prospective UK cohort study of persons meeting Assessment of Spondylarthritis international Society (ASAS) criteria for axial SpA. At recruitment, clinical and patient‐reported factors independently associated with spinal mobility (measured by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index [BASMI]) were determined. Among those commencing anti‐TNF therapy, factors that were independent predictors of response were determined using ASAS criteria, quality of life, and Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) response criteria.

Results

A total of 1,960 participants were eligible; 70% were male, the median age was 48 years (interquartile range [IQR] 37, 59), and the median BASMI score 3.6 (IQR 2.2, 5.3). Factors independently associated with poor spinal mobility were poorer function, meeting radiographic criteria for AS, longer symptom duration, higher levels of inflammation (measured by C‐reactive protein level), older age, male sex, not being currently employed, and lower levels of education. For 51% of participants, the measured BASMI score was within 1 of that estimated. Poorer mobility (higher BASMI score) was an independent predictor of not meeting response criteria for ASAS 20% improvement (odds ratio [OR] per increasing score 0.80 [IQR 0.66, 0.98]), ASAS 40% improvement (OR 0.69 [IQR 0.50, 0.95]), and quality of life (measured by the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life Questionnaire) (β = 0.64 [IQR 0.26, 1.02]), but was not related to meeting ASDAS response criteria.

Conclusion

The BASMI score was estimated moderately well by other routinely measured factors in patients with axial SpA and was an independent predictor of response to biologic therapy for some, but not all, commonly used measures. Consensus around its role in disease monitoring and clinical decisions, particularly in the likely context of face‐to‐face consultations becoming less frequent, remains to be established.
Observer‐based controller design for uncertain disturbed Takagi‐Sugeno fuzzy systems: A fuzzy wavelet neural network approach
Authors: Ebrahimi Zeinab , Asemani Mohammad Hassan , Safavi Ali Akbar
Published: November 2020

In this article, we develop a novel method to design a controller for nonlinear systems represented by Takagi‐Sugeno (T‐S) fuzzy model in the presence of unknown dynamics, uncertainties in parameters of nonlinear system and external disturbances. The control law is constituted two segments. The first segment derives from parallel distributed compensation (PDC) procedure, in which each control rule is drawn from the respective rule of T‐S fuzzy model. The second segment stems from fuzzy wavelet neural network (FWNN) estimator which is evoked by the hypothesis of multiresolution analysis (MRA) of wavelet transforms and fuzzy notions, so as to approximate the uncertainties and external disturbances in T‐S fuzzy model accurately. In this regard, the Lyapunov stability theorem is applied to acquire the adaptive learning laws for training and tuning online FWNN parameters such as the dilations, translations, and the weights of networks. Moreover, the asymptotic stability of the closed loop system is guaranteed based on the Lyapunov stability theorem. Furthermore, a development of the proposed method to observer‐based controller design for uncertain nonlinear systems descripted by T‐S fuzzy model is provided. The efficiency and robustness of the proposed method are illustrated by simulation outcomes. It is noteworthy that the proposed controller remarkably handles the uncertainties and external disturbances in T‐S fuzzy model without employing traditional conservative lemma and without considering bounds on uncertainties.
Skin Mountable Capillaric Strain Sensor with Ultrahigh Sensitivity and Direction Specificity
Authors: Rivas Yepes Laura , Demir Ebru , Lee Ju Young , Sun Ruopeng , Smuck Matthew , Araci I. Emre
Published: November 2020

Microfluidic devices filled with conductive liquids exhibit a unique potential to integrate fluid physics and electronics while maintaining low mechanical load (i.e., extremely soft and stretchable) for skin mounted wearable device applications. Here, a novel microfluidic strain sensing mechanism is presented, which provides a theoretically unlimited tunable gauge factor, directionally specific and linear response, and negligible hysteresis for skin deformation measurements. The control over flow dynamics enables signal filtering, thresholding, and basic logic operations to be performed in the fluidic‐domain potentially simplifying the electronic and digital processing components. The capillaric strain sensor technology relies on the ultrahigh electrical resistance modification due to the capillary flow of conductive ionic liquids in response to the elastomeric deformation of silicone microchannels. The directional specificity and ultrahigh sensitivity (e.g., gauge factor > 3000) are demonstrated for distinguishing facial activity types and the subtle differences in facial muscle‐strengthening activities.
Tunable Perfect Meta‐Absorber with High‐Sensitive Polarization Characteristic
Authors: Wen Yao , Liang Zhaokang , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: November 2020

A tunable perfect meta‐absorber (PMA) composed of an electric split‐ring resonator (eSRR) and a cross‐shaped nanostructure is proposed. Owing to the electromagnetic coupling effect generated between dipole and inductive–capacitive (LC) resonances, the PMA exhibits perfect absorption, tunable resonance, variable optical attenuation, and switchable polarization‐dependence/independence characteristics. Furthermore, the PMA is demonstrated to be feasible for sensing applications. The PMA exhibits high sensing performance with a sensitivity of 1200 nm/RIU. Such results indicate that the proposed PMA can be used in variable optical attenuators, polarization switches, tunable absorbers, and sensors applications.
Analyzing Discursive Constructions of Community in Newspaper Articles
Authors: Malherbe Nick , Seedat Mohamed , Suffla Shahnaaz
Published: November 2020

The manner by which power is reified through newspaper reporting can assist community psychologists in getting a handle on the complex, often contradictory, ways by which ideology and power are constituted in relation to particular communities. Accordingly, the present study draws on discursive psychology to analyse how 377 newspaper articles construct the community of Thembelihle (a low‐income community in South Africa) and how these constructions can inform counter‐hegemonic strategy. Two discourses were identified in the analysis, Signifying Legitimacy and Containing the Protest Community. Where the Signifying Legitimacy discourse established a Statist legitimacy‐illegitimacy binary against which Thembelihle was to be assessed, the Containing the Protest Community discourse constructed Thembelihle as a monolithic entity that enacted a wholly violent, and often directionless, mode of protest violence which was concerned with little more than ‘service delivery’. Together, these discourses suggest to us the manner by which low‐income communities are engaged by the State as well as how Statist representations function materially. Certainly, most newspaper articles relied on an interpretive frame whose hermeneutics were characterised primarily by violence and homogenously experienced suffering. Such representation, we argue, signifies the dominant discursive field and ideology against which counter‐hegemonic strategy and (re)presentation must act.
Visualisation of focal renal lesions on ultrasound: A review of 518 lesions with contrast CT correlation
Authors: Wylie Blanche , Necas Martin , Heaney Aine
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Conventional ultrasound (US) is a common imaging investigation of the kidneys; however, the current diagnostic performance of US in the visualisation of focal renal lesions is unknown.

Methods

This study was a retrospective sequential review of 518 focal renal lesions (FRLs) in 200 patients aged 50 years or older who received an US of the kidneys followed by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT).

Results

Patient’s age ranged from 50 to 94 years. The majority were hospital inpatients. 518 FRLs were identified on CECT ranging from 3 to 165 mm (median 8 mm). The majority of FRLs (96.1%) were benign. The visualisation rate of FRLs on US was size‐dependent: <5 mm, 10.2%; 5–9 mm, 22.3 mm; 10–14 mm, 48.0%; 15–19 mm, 82.1%; and 20–24 mm, 100%. The visualisation of simple cysts was 49.1% and hyperdense lesions 81.8%. Follow‐up was available on 58% of lesions. Benign lesions generally remained stable. Seven patients had concerning heterogeneous hyperdense masses on CECT, and US had visualised six of these (85.7%).

Conclusion

Visualisation of FRLs is size‐dependent. High rate of visualisation is achieved once the lesion exceeds 15 mm in size. Small FRLs are associated with a low rate of visualisation on ultrasound; however, they are rarely concerning. Hyperdense lesions on CECT that carry high suspicion of malignancy are associated with a high rate of US visualisation.
Ultrathin Porous Carbon Nitride Bundles with an Adjustable Energy Band Structure toward Simultaneous Solar Photocatalytic Water Splitting and Selective Phenylcarbinol Oxidation
Authors: Wu Baogang , Zhang Liping , Jiang Baojiang , Li Qi , Tian Chungui , Xie Ying , Li Weizuo , Fu Honggang
Published: November 2020

Actiniae‐like carbon nitride (ACN) bundles were synthesized by the pyrolysis of an asymmetric supramolecular precursor prepared from L‐arginine (L‐Arg) and melamine. ACN has adjustable band gaps (2.25 eV–2.75 eV) and hollow microtubes with ultrathin pore walls, which enrich reaction sites, improve visible‐light absorption and enhance charge separation. In the presence of phenylcarbinol, ACN exhibited excellent water‐splitting ability (95.3 μmol h−1) and in the meanwhile phenylcarbinol was selectively oxidized to benzaldehyde (conversion of 90.9 %, selectivity of 99.7 %) under solar irradiation. For the concurrent reactions, 2D isotope labeling, separation, and detection were conducted to confirm that the proton source of released hydrogen is water. The mechanism of water splitting and phenylcarbinol oxidation was also investigated.
Discovery and Design of Family VIII Carboxylesterases as Highly Efficient Acyltransferases
Authors: Müller Henrik , Godehard Simon P. , Palm Gottfried J. , Berndt Leona , Badenhorst Christoffel P. S. , Becker Ann‐Kristin , Lammers Michael , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: November 2020

Promiscuous acyltransferase activity is the ability of certain hydrolases to preferentially catalyze acyl transfer over hydrolysis, even in bulk water. However, poor enantioselectivity, low transfer efficiency, significant product hydrolysis, and limited substrate scope represent considerable drawbacks for their application. By activity‐based screening of several hydrolases, we identified the family VIII carboxylesterase, EstCE1, as an unprecedentedly efficient acyltransferase. EstCE1 catalyzes the irreversible amidation and carbamoylation of amines in water, which enabled the synthesis of the drug moclobemide from methyl 4‐chlorobenzoate and 4‐(2‐aminoethyl)morpholine (ca. 20 % conversion). We solved the crystal structure of EstCE1 and detailed structure–function analysis revealed a three‐amino acid motif important for promiscuous acyltransferase activity. Introducing this motif into an esterase without acetyltransferase activity transformed a “hydrolase” into an “acyltransferase”.
Effects of short fibers and processing additives on HDPE composites properties reinforced with Pinus and Eucalyptus fibers
Authors: Mendes Juliana Farinassi , Castro Larissa Souza , Corrêa Ana Carolina , Marconcini José Manoel , Mattoso Luiz Henrique Capparelli , Mendes Rafael Farinassi
Published: November 2020

This work aimed to investigate the effect of adding short fibers of Pinus and Eucalyptus, in different granulometry (24 and 200 mesh) and concentration (0–20 m/m), combined with processing aid Struktol TPW104 (S) in obtaining of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composites. Overall, obtaining composites from short fibers caused relevant changes in the HDPE matrix, such as thermal stability, moisture barrier. In comparison to pure HDPE, the composites incorporated with 20% m/m of fibers, regardless of the type, decreased the melting temperature to 128°C and a wider crystallization temperature range. Another significant observation was the improvement of composites mechanical profile after adding the additive, the highest values were obtained for composites HDPEL20PS (35%—TS e 651%—EM) and HDPEL20ES (42%—TS e 681%—EM), showing good interaction and compatibility, according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The same was verified with the mechanical results of flexion and impact. Therefore, the use of short fibers and processing aid was successful providing augmented mechanical properties and thermal stability, without negatively affecting their essential properties for industrial applications.
Structurally modified poly(methyl methacrylate) electrospun nanofibers as better host matrix for noble metal nanoparticles
Authors: Philip Princy , Jose Tomlal , Parameswaran Manoj , Thankaraj Sajini
Published: November 2020

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanofibers are proved as good host matrix for various nanomaterials. Here, the possibilities offered by the process of electrospinning are exploited for the production of pure and structurally modified surface roughened and coaxial hollow PMMA electrospun nanofibers with unique advantages and surface characteristics, which is proved through various structural analyses. The host matrix nature of these pure and structurally modified surface roughened and coaxial hollow PMMA nanofibers to gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are proved through different structural and morphological analyses. The host matrix nature of pure and structurally modified surface roughened and coaxial hollow PMMA nanofibers to AuNPs are compared with that of pure PMMA nanofibers by comparing their structural and optical properties. It is found here that, the surface roughened PMMA nanofibers act as better host matrix with more uniform distribution of particles and intensity enhancement than the pure and coaxial hollow PMMA nanofibers. Pure and coaxial hollow PMMA nanofibers show almost two times enhancement in intensity while the surface roughened PMMA nanofibers show almost five times enhancement in intensity after incorporating AuNPs. The host matrix nature of PMMA nanofibers is thus proved to be improved by making structural modifications on PMMA nanofibers in a simple and cost‐effective way. This makes them more suitable and adaptable in their applications. This superior property of surface roughened PMMA nanofibers over pure PMMA nanofibers can be used in all the application fields of PMMA nanofibers like optical works, catalytically supporting agents, antibacterial supporting systems and so on.
Natural rubber‐carbon black coagulation: Following the nanostructure evolution from a colloidal suspension to a composite
Authors: Cattinari Gianluca , Steenkeste Karine , Le Bris Catherine , Canette Alexis , Gallopin Matthieu , Couty Marc , Fontaine‐Aupart Marie‐Pierre
Published: November 2020

Making elastomeric composite materials via heteroaggregation of a binary colloidal suspension of Natural Rubber (NR) latex and Carbon Black (CB) filler is an interesting production method to obtain an efficient dispersion in the polymer matrix. This study successfully employs an original approach of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) to investigate for the first time the nanostructure evolution of a coagulum originated from the aggregation of NR globules with CB filler in suspension. More specifically, we exploited a chemical fixation method allowing simultaneous acquisition of backscattered electron (BSE) and secondary electron (SE) imaging modes. Additionally, the role of external physical stresses, like mechanical shear and sonication was also investigated in terms of structural effect induced on the formed coagulum at the nanoscopic scale. Our results highlight destabilization of NR globules, either induced by direct interaction with small CB aggregates or governed by solvent evaporation. Reduction in the size of CB agglomerates, obtained using sonication, highly improved filler distribution and confirmed that the size of CB aggregates is an important parameter responsible for the destabilization of NR globules.
Synthesis and synergistic flame‐retardant effects of rigid polyurethane foams used reactive DOPO‐based polyols combination with expandable graphite
Authors: Xu Jingshui , Wu Yuqiang , Zhang Bangling , Zhang Guoliang
Published: November 2020

Flame retardant rigid polyurethane foams (FR‐RPFs) were prepared by a one‐pot and free‐rise method with reactive DOPO‐based polyols and expandable graphite (EG) as flame retardants. The flame retardancy, thermal stability and morphological of FR‐RPFs were investigated by some characterization testing techniques. Less than 10 wt% EG incorporated in the FR‐RPF‐0 can improve the mechanical strength due to forming a chemical bond between FR‐RPF and EG. With addition of 1.5 wt% P and 12.5 wt% EG, the FR‐RPF achieved the LOI of above 30%, meeting the standard of combustible stage B1. Thermal stability and residual mass of FR‐RPFs effectively increased as the increase EG by TGA analysis. EG could help to form a more thermally stable and compact char layer during combustion by SEM analysis. Cone calorimeter tests indicated that the obvious synergistic flame‐retardant effects between DOPO‐based polyols and EG could be concluded in FR‐RPFs. The co‐existence of DOPO‐based polyols enabled EG adhere more smoke fragments and the combination of DOPO‐based polyols and EG better strengthened char layer, so as to enhance the barrier and protective effect of residue. The synergistic flame‐retardant effects from the combination system of DOPO‐based polyols/EG endowed themselves with high flame‐retardant efficiency.
Nanoparticles modified Polyacrylonitrile/Polyacrylonitrile – Polyvinylidenefluoride blends as substrate of high flux anti‐fouling nanofiltration membranes
Authors: Polisetti Veerababu , Ray Paramita
Published: November 2020

Thin‐film composite nanofiltration membranes were prepared by interfacial polymerization reaction of piperazine and trimesoylchloride on virgin and nanoparticles (SiO2/TiO2) modified Polyacrylonitrile/70:30 and 30:70 Polyacrylonitrile – Polyvinylidenefluoride blend ultrafiltration substrates. The membranes were characterized for surface hydrophilicity and potential, surface and cross‐sectional morphology and equilibrium water content. Pure water permeability and differential rejection of multi (MgSO4) and monovalent salts (NaCl) of the membranes were studied. Nanofiltration (NF) membranes prepared on nanoparticle modified UF substrates exhibit higher flux than the membranes prepared on virgin UF substrates. NF membranes prepared on TiO2 modified substrates are exhibiting higher flux than the other membranes. Membrane prepared on TiO2 modified 70:30 blend substrate exhibits the highest rejection ratio (4.63) of divalent to monovalent salts. Nanofiltration membranes prepared on nanoparticle modified substrates are displaying comparatively higher flux recovery ratio (FRR) and lower total fouling ratio (TFR) values than the NF membranes prepared on virgin ultrafiltration substrates.
High biorenewable content acrylate photocurable resins for DLP 3D printing
Authors: Lebedevaite Migle , Talacka Vaidas , Ostrauskaite Jolita
Published: November 2020

Green chemistry and green engineering concepts have been combined to develop novel sustainable polymeric materials. Solvent free photocurable acrylate resins with biorenewable carbon content of 75%–82% suitable for application in DLP 3D printing technology were composed by commercially available bio‐based materials, acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO), isobornyl methacrylate (IBOMA), methacrylic ester (ME), tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate (THFA), and tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate (THFMA). They demonstrated high printing accuracy and good adhesion between layers. The monitoring of photocross‐linking kinetics of high biorenewable content acrylate photoresins by the real‐time photorheometry and analysis of their rheological parameters was carried out. Synthesized polymers exhibited high yield of insoluble fraction and thermal decomposition temperature at the weight loss of 10% above 300°C. Polymers AESO/IBOMA and AESO/THFMA showed the highest values of tensile modulus and tensile strength. Biodegradability of the synthesized polymers AESO/ME, AESO/THFA, and AESO/THFMA was investigated by measuring oxygen consumption in a closed respirometer. Such AESO‐based polymers can be a competitive solution to replace petroleum‐derived polymeric materials in additive manufacturing and reduce the environmental impact.
Effect of Nintedanib on Lung Function in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis−Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: Further Analyses of a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Maher Toby M. , Mayes Maureen D. , Kreuter Michael , Volkmann Elizabeth R. , Aringer Martin , Castellvi Ivan , Cutolo Maurizio , Stock Christian , Schoof Nils , Alves Margarida , Raghu Ganesh ,   the SENSCIS Trial Investigators
Published: November 2020

Objective

In the SENSCIS trial in subjects with systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease (SSc‐ILD), nintedanib reduced the rate of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) over 52 weeks by 44% versus placebo. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of nintedanib on categorical changes in FVC and other measures of ILD progression.

Methods

In post hoc analyses, we assessed the proportions of subjects with categorical changes in FVC % predicted at week 52 and the time to absolute decline in FVC of ≥5% predicted or death and absolute decline in FVC of ≥10% predicted or death.

Results

A total of 288 subjects received nintedanib and 288 subjects received placebo. At week 52, in subjects treated with nintedanib and placebo, respectively, 55.7% and 66.3% had any decline in FVC % predicted, 13.6% and 20.1% had a decline in FVC of >5% to ≤10% predicted, and 3.5% and 5.2% had a decline in FVC of >10% to ≤15% predicted; 34.5% and 43.8% had a decrease in FVC of ≥3.3% predicted (proposed minimal clinically important difference [MCID] for worsening of FVC), while 23.0% and 14.9% had an increase in FVC of ≥3.0% predicted (proposed MCID for improvement in FVC). Over 52 weeks, the hazard ratio (HR) for an absolute decline in FVC of ≥5% predicted or death with nintedanib versus placebo was 0.83 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.66−1.06) (P = 0.14), and the HR for an absolute decline in FVC of ≥10% predicted was 0.64 (95% CI 0.43−0.95) (P = 0.029).

Conclusion

These results suggest that nintedanib has a clinically relevant benefit on the progression of SSc‐ILD.
Periodic point processes: Theory and application
Authors: Casey Stephen D.
Published: November 2020

We address the problems of extracting information generated by one dimensional periodic point processes. These problems arise in numerous situations, from astronomy and biomedical applications to reliability and quality control and signal processing. We divide our analysis into two cases, namely single and then multiple source(s). We wish to extract the fundamental period of the generator(s), and, in the second case, to deinterleave the processes. We present two algorithms, designed to work on all one dimensional periodic processes, but in particular on sparse datasets where other procedures break down. The first algorithm works on data from single period processes, computing an estimate of the underlying period. It is extremely computationally efficient and straightforward, and works on all single period processes, but in particular on sparse datasets where others break down. Its justification, however, rests on some deep mathematics, including a probabilistic interpretation of the Riemann zeta function. We then build upon this procedure to analyze data from multiple periodic processes. This second procedure relies on the Riemann zeta function, Weyl's equidistribution theorem, and Wiener's periodogram.
Identification of young nearby runaway stars based on Gaia data and the lithium test†
Authors: Bischoff Richard , Mugrauer Markus , Torres Guillermo , Heyne Theresa , Lux Oliver , Munz Vera , Neuhäuser Ralph , Hoffmann Susanne , Trepanovski Anja
Published: November 2020

Young nearby runaway stars are suitable to search for their place of origin and possibly associated objects, for example, neutron stars. Tetzlaff et al. (2011) selected young (≤50 Myr) runaway star candidates from Hipparcos, for which they had estimated the ages from the location in the Hertzsprung‐Russell diagram and evolutionary models. Here, we redetermine or constrain their young ages more precisely, not only by using the new Gaia DR2 data but also by measuring lithium, which is a youth indicator. For 308 stars, we obtained spectra to search for the strong resonance doublet of the lithium‐7 isotope at 6708 Å. The spectra were obtained with the Échelle spectrograph FLECHAS at the University Observatory Jena between February 2015 and June 2018 and with TRES between April 2011 and June 2017 at the Fred L. Whipple Observatory. We found 208 stars with a significant occurrence of lithium in their spectra, and 5 possess a possible age that is younger than or about 50 Myr. Three of these targets are even closer than GJ 182, the nearest known runaway star at about 24 pc. These stars are young runaway stars suitable for further investigation of their origin from either a dynamical or supernova ejection.
Disrupting the 'boys don't read' discourse: Primary school boys wholovereading fiction
Authors: Scholes Laura , Spina Nerida , Comber Barbara
Published: November 2020

This article disrupts dominant discourses around boys and reading that often homogenise young males as reluctant, disengaged and, at times, adversarial readers. Rather than essentialising boys, we argue there is a need for a more sophisticated knowledge base about the influences, constraints and diverse experiences of boys as readers in society today. Drawing on interviews (n = 30) with Year 4 (8 to 9‐year‐old) boys at six schools, we consider their personal recounts of their enjoyment in reading, their preferred reading choices and narratives related to their experiences as readers at school. Analysis highlights boys' emerging reading interests, sophisticated and specific reading preferences, and changes in reading identities over time. Boys' preferences for particular fiction authors, novel series and genres dispute the common assumption in educational contexts that boys prefer to engage with non‐fiction books. This finding is significant, as negative gendered stereotypes can impact on boys' reading self‐concepts. It is also critical given Jerrim and Moss's recent research highlighting the importance of fiction in the development of reading skills. We consider implications for pedagogical practices that broaden reading experiences for the diversity of emerging masculine reading identities in nations such as Australia, where there is an absence of reading for pleasure in education policies.
Stories of family in working‐class graduates’ early careers
Authors: Christie Fiona , Burke Ciaran
Published: November 2020

How do young graduates view the role of immediate families in influencing/supporting them as they start their working lives and how do those reflections affect how they think of themselves as graduates? Social, political and economic changes have led to many young people being dependent on family for longer, but how does this play out in their reflections? This article addresses these questions by reporting upon findings from qualitative research with 14 young people from working‐class backgrounds, who were part of a larger study of recent graduates. Figured Worlds theory illuminates data, with a consideration of the role that family plays in the ‘space of authoring’ and understanding of ‘positionality’. Findings capture vivid stories of the enabling but also limiting role of family. In our analysis of data, we borrow the words ‘salience’ from Holland and her co‐authors and ‘distinction’ from Bourdieu, which help capture different depictions of family. Both articulations of ‘salience’ and a search for ‘distinction’ emerge in how graduates’ stories respond to family. We argue for a greater appreciation of the differing family resources of working‐class graduates, and reject an emphasis on what they may lack, compared to their peers, which has tended to be the case in some media and policy commentary. There are implications for educators to foster student reflexivity about family sensitively, and to be aware of how family backgrounds may influence graduate career paths and students’ awareness of wider inequalities.
Neuauflage DAfStb‐Richtlinie Stahlfaserbeton
Authors: Mark Peter , Oettel Vincent , Look Katharina , Empelmann Martin
Published: November 2020

Die Richtlinie „Stahlfaserbeton“ des Deutschen Ausschusses für Stahlbeton (DAfStb) ergänzt DIN EN 1992‐1‐1 mit spezifischen Bemessungsregelungen für Stahlfaserbeton. Sie ist seit 2012 bauaufsichtlich eingeführt – besitzt also normativen Charakter – und wurde nun in zwei Punkten wesentlich überarbeitet bzw. ergänzt. Zum einen wurden Regelungen für die Torsionsbemessung aufgenommen. Solche fehlten bislang aufgrund mangelnder Erfahrungen. Zum anderen wurden die Vorschriften zur Rissbreitenbeschränkung angepasst. Hier wurde die Nutzung des sogenannten L1‐Werts, der das Zugtragverhalten des Stahlfaserbetons bei kleinen Rissbreiten beschreibt, eingeführt. Bislang wurde konservativ mit dem sogenannten L2‐Wert gerechnet. Der Beitrag beschreibt die Überarbeitungen und erläutert kurz die Hintergründe dazu.
Emerging roles of long noncoding RNAs in cholangiocarcinoma: Advances and challenges
Authors: Yang Yang , Deng Xueting , Li Quanpeng , Wang Fei , Miao Lin , Jiang Qi
Published: November 2020

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a cancer with a relatively low incidence rate, is usually associated with poor prognosis. Current modalities for the diagnosis and treatment of CCA patients are still far from satisfactory. In recent years, numerous long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as crucial players in the development of various cancers, including CCA. Abnormally expressed lncRNAs in CCA, regulated by some upstream molecules, significantly influence the biological behavior of tumor cells and are involved in tumor development through various mechanisms, including interactions with functional proteins, participation in competing for endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks, activation of cancer‐related signaling pathways and epigenetic modification of gene expression. Furthermore, several lncRNAs are closely associated with the clinicopathological features of CCA patients, and are promising biomarkers for diagnosing and prognostication of CCA. Some of these lncRNAs play an important role in chemotherapy drug resistance. In addition, lncRNAs have also been shown to be involved in the inflammation microenvironment of CCA and malignant outcome of CCA risk factors, such as cholestatic liver diseases. In view of the difficulty of diagnosing CCA, more attention should be paid to detectable lncRNAs in the serum or bile. This review summarizes the recent knowledge on lncRNAs in CCA and provides a new outlook on the molecular mechanisms of CCA development from the perspective of lncRNAs. Moreover, we also discussed the limitations of the current studies and differential expression of lncRNAs in different types of CCA.
Comprehensive subgroup analyses of survival outcomes between clear cell renal cell adenocarcinoma and papillary renal cell adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Jingyi , Huang Da , Yan Jiaqi , Chen Tianhe , Gao Yi , Xu Danfeng , Na Rong
Published: November 2020

To comprehensively compare the survival outcomes of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC), the study cohort included ccRCC and pRCC patients in 2004–2017 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, which comprises 18 registries. Primary outcomes including overall mortality (OM) and cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) were evaluated. Subgroup analyses were conducted for different ages, race, and disease stages. A total of 112,270 cases were eligible for the current analysis, including 92,209 cases of ccRCC and 20,061 cases of pRCC. Univariate analyses suggested that pRCC has a more favorable outcome than ccRCC in terms of CSM (HR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.68–0.75, p < 0.001) and OM (HR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.88–0.93, p < 0.001). Multivariate‐adjusted HRs suggested that pRCC has worse survival outcomes than ccRCC (adjusted HR: 1.08 for CSM and 1.05 for OM, both p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses showed that pRCC had a significantly poorer prognosis than ccRCC among patients ≤45 years old (HRCSM: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.31–1.93, p < 0.001; HROM: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.40–1.90, p < 0.001). Among patients with distant metastasis, those with pRCC had a higher risk of CSM and OM than those with ccRCC (HRCSM: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.19–1.39, p < 0.001; HROM: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.21–1.40, p < 0.001). Propensity score analyses for patients ≤45 years old and those with metastasis showed similar results. The lack of information on pRCC subtypes in the SEER database was a limitation. In conclusion, pRCC has poorer survival outcomes than ccRCC among patients younger than 45 years old and patients with distant metastasis.
The SIMM study: Survey of integrative medicine in myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Gowin Krisstina , Langlais Blake T. , Kosiorek Heidi E. , Dueck Amylou , Millstine Denise , Huberty Jennifer , Eckert Ryan , Mesa Ruben A.
Published: November 2020

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are characterized by significant symptom burden. Integrative medicine (IM) offers unique symptom management strategies. This study describes IM interventions utilized by MPN patients and the association with symptom burden, quality of life, depression, and fatigue adjusted for lifestyle confounders. MPN patients were surveyed online for IM utilization, MPN symptom burden (MPN‐Symptom Assessment Form Total Symptom Score), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire), fatigue (Brief Fatigue Inventory), and a single question on overall quality of life. Measures were compared by IM participation and adjusted for alcohol and tobacco use, BMI, diet, and MPN type using multiple linear and logistic regression. A total of 858 participants were included in the analysis. Aerobic activity (p =< 0.001) and strength training (p = 0.01) were associated with lower mean symptom burden while massage (p =< 0.001) and support groups (p =< 0.001) were associated with higher levels of symptom burden. Higher quality of life was reported in massage (p = 0.04) and support groups (p = 0.002) while lower quality of life was noted in aerobic activity (p =< 0.001) and strength training (p = 0.001). A lower depression screening score was noted in those participating in aerobic activity (p = 0.006), yoga (p = 0.03), and strength training (p = 0.02). Lower fatigue was noted in those participating in aerobic activity (p =< 0.001) and strength training (p = 0.03) while higher fatigue was noted in those participating in massage (p =< 0.001) and breathing techniques (p = 0.02). Data available on request from the authors. This international survey of MPN patients on IM usage, has shown that patients who participated in a form of IM had a pattern of decreased levels of symptom burden, fatigue, depression, and higher QoL, as adjusted for health lifestyle practices overall.
Narratives selves in the digital world: An empirical investigation
Authors: Jain Varsha , Belk Russell W. , Ambika Anupama , Pathak‐Shelat Manisha
Published: November 2020

The digital era has led to the extension of self into virtual space, resulting in changes to consumption patterns. The existing academic landscape in this area focuses on Western perspectives, in the context of early‐stage digital interventions. However, the dynamic digital world demands a constant exploration to understand the corresponding influences on consumer behavior across varied cultural contexts. This research focuses on unraveling newer dimensions of the digital self from non‐Western perspectives. We adopt an interpretive lens to understand the evolving nature of self through a grounded theory approach. The study establishes the presence of multiple independent narrative selves, co‐created with people, and technology. Each narrative addresses different segments of personal audiences, enabling new modes of self‐expression to overcome the challenges of digital expressions. Additionally, we highlight the exclusion of the digital presence of family in the formation of the narrative self. From a theoretical perspective, we extend and contrast the existing conceptualizations on self, such as dialogical selves, self‐extension and expansion, and the unified core self. Further, the practical implications emphasize the need for narrative analytic approaches to understanding consumers and avenues for brands to decode narratives, develop strategies to gain consumer attention, and become part of consumers' narrative selves.
COVID‐19 and racism: A mental health crisis
Authors: Walters Anne S.
Published: November 2020

As the COVID‐19 pandemic drags on, we are beginning to see the mental health effects we have feared from the beginning of sheltering in place in March. In adults, recent estimates suggest that adverse mental health conditions in adults are elevated, with 31% of adults surveyed endorsing anxiety and depression, 26% with trauma‐/stressor‐related concerns, 13% acknowledging increased or started substance use, and 11% who considered suicide (Czeisler et al., 2020). At the same time, we also continue to learn of associated health inequities that impact families; some have described COVID‐19 as a “racialized disease.” I recently attended a webinar (Powell et al., 2020) moderated by Wizdom Powell from the UConn Health Disparities Institute that highlighted racially based health disparities brought to light during the COVID‐19 pandemic. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) have been disproportionally impacted by COVID‐19; with higher rates of death (2.3 times as many dying as whites), higher rates of job loss, higher numbers of essential workers and thus elevated risk, greater likelihood of living in viral “hotspots,” greater likelihood of living in crowded conditions due to cultural or socioeconomic factors, and greater risk of eviction or homelessness due to job loss (Powell, Cooper, Hollister et al, 2020).
Hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy due to lung cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Shinzato Akira , Kinjo Takeshi , Miyagi Taiga , Yamazato Shoshin , Kaneku Kozue , Nishiyama Mao , Miyagi Kazuya , Furugen Makoto , Fujita Jiro
Published: November 2020

Hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy (HPOA) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome. Our literature review shows the location of arthralgia and existence of edema are referable information for the differential diagnosis in paraneoplastic arthralgia.
Self‐Assembled Urchin‐Like CuWO4/WO3 Heterojunction Nanoarrays as Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Tao , Fan Xiaoli , Gao Bin , Jiang Cheng , Li Yang , Li Peng , Zhang Songtao , Huang Xianli , He Jianping
Published: November 2020

With attractive visible‐light response and chemical stability, CuWO4 has emerged to be a promising candidate as a photoanode for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation. In this work, we report a one‐step hydrothermal method to prepare CuWO4‐based films directly grown on a conductive glass substrate from a stable precursor solution. By controlling the reaction duration, CuWO4/WO3 heterojunctions with urchin‐like nanoarray morphology are obtained. The CuWO4/WO3 film obtained with an optimized hydrothermal reaction time exhibits an onset potential of 0.6 V and a photocurrent density of 0.48 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE, which is almost five times that of bare CuWO4. The superior structure of the urchin‐like array with large surface area, optimizing film thickness for adequate light absorption and formation of heterojunctions for efficient charge separation conjointly, contributes to the improved performance as well as robust stability.
Nanoparticle‐ and Nanotube‐Modified Electrodes: Response of Drop‐Cast Surfaces
Authors: Zhang Yifei , Selva Kumar Archana Kaliyaraj , Li Danlei , Yang Minjun , Compton Richard G.
Published: November 2020

The morphology of electrodes modified by drop casting layers of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) is investigated and shown to exhibit significant heterogeneity, both in the form of ‘patchy’ surfaces and of ‘coffee rings’ formed after evaporation of the carrier solvent. The variation of the heterogeneity with total average coverage is studied and the consequences for quantitative analytical voltammetry assessed. Specifically, the oxidation of bromide in aqueous solution is examined in the case of MWCNTs‐modified electrodes and the oxidation of aqueous As(III) in that of PtNPs‐modified electrodes. In both cases, significant deviations from the expected voltammetry are observed, even for average coverages that correspond to much in excess of a monolayer of CNTs or NPs. The observed voltammetry is related to the observed structure and the use of such modified electrodes, without concomitant microscopic surface characterization, is caveated.
A Functional Hexaphenylbenzene Library Comprising of One, Three, and Six Peripheral Rylene‐Diimide Substituents
Authors: Dusold Carolin , Platzer Benedikt , Haines Philipp , Reger David , Jux Norbert , Guldi Dirk. M. , Hirsch Andreas
Published: November 2020

Synthesis and characterization of a series of rylene‐diimide substituted hexaphenylbenzenes (HPBs) is presented. The direct connection of the rylene‐diimide units to the HPBs via the imide‐N‐position without any linkers as well as the use of naphthalene‐diimides (NDIs) next to perylene‐diimides (PDIs) is unprecedented. While mono‐substituted products were obtained by imidization reactions with amino‐HPB and the respective rylene‐monoimides, key step for the formation of tri‐ and hexa‐substituted HPBs is the Co‐catalysed cyclotrimerization. Particular emphasis for physic‐chemical characterization was on to the number of NDIs/PDIs per HPB and the overall substitution patterns. Lastly, Scholl oxidation conditions were applied to all HPB systems to generate the corresponding hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronenes (HBCs). Importantly, the efficiency of the transformation strongly depends on the number of NDIs/PDIs. While three rylene‐diimide units already hinder the Scholl reaction, the successful synthesis of mono‐substituted HBCs is possible.