bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilateral breast cancer in China: A 10‐year single‐center retrospective study (2006–2016)
Authors: Jiang Hanfang , Zhang Ruyan , Liu Xiaoran , Ran Ran , Zhang Jiayang , Liu Yaxin , Gui Xinyu , Chen Yifei , Li Kun , Shao Bin , Yan Ying , Liang Xu , Song Guohong , Di Lijun , Li Huiping
Published: August 2021

Bilateral breast cancer (BBC) is an uncommon subset of breast cancer (BC), and it may present as synchronous bilateral breast cancer (sBBC) or metachronous bilateral breast cancer (mBBC). Through this study, we aimed to evaluate the proportion of BBC in BC and compare the clinicopathological characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of sBBC and mBBC at an academic cancer center in China. Patients with BC consecutively treated between 2006 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with BBC were included. In total, 3924 patients with BC were analyzed and 127 patients with BBC (28 sBBC, 99 mBBC) with a median follow‐up of 98 months were identified. The proportion of BBC was 3.2% (0.7%, sBBC; 2.5%, mBBC). The median age at the first diagnosis of mBBC was significantly younger than that at the first diagnosis of sBBC (p = 0.027). Patients diagnosed as having sBBC were more likely to have a positive family history (p = 0.047). The first tumors of mBBC were detected at a significantly earlier tumor stage compared with those of sBBC (p = 0.028). The concordance rates of histopathologic type in the first and second tumors were 60.7% and 58.0% in sBBC and mBBC, respectively. sBBC had a significantly poorer disease‐free survival than mBBC did (p = 0.001). BBC is a rare disease affecting the Chinese population. sBBC is associated with a greater prevalence of a family history of breast cancer and poorer prognosis, compared with mBBC.
Versatile Hybrid Niobium Pentoxide‐Based Catalyst Applied in Reactions of the Fuels Industry: Oleic Acid Esterification and Quinoline Oxidation
Authors: Sturt Natália Rodrigues Marques , Moura Flávia Cristina Camilo
Published: August 2021

Hybrid niobium‐based catalysts were synthesized and applied in two kinds of reactions: oleic acid esterification to produce biodiesel and oxidation of quinoline, an important contaminant of fossil fuels. Niobium oxides were functionalized with p‐toluenesulfonic acid, which conferred amphiphilic properties on the materials and an increase in Brønsted acidic sites due to the incorporation of sulfo groups on the material surface. The oleic acid esterification reaction with methanol showed very high efficiency of the hybrid material with 90 % conversion, even after three reuse cycles, under very mild conditions. Moreover, the catalyst was capable of promoting quinoline oxidation in a biphasic reaction.
Hybrid Self‐Assembled Gel Beads for Tuneable pH‐Controlled Rosuvastatin Delivery
Authors: Piras Carmen C. , Patterson Anna K. , Smith David K.
Published: August 2021

This article describes the fabrication of new pH‐responsive hybrid gel beads combining the polymer gelator calcium alginate with two different low‐molecular‐weight gelators (LMWGs) based on 1,3 : 2,4‐dibenzylidene‐d‐sorbitol: pH‐responsive DBS‐COOH and thermally responsive DBS‐CONHNH2, thus clearly demonstrating that different classes of LMWG can be fabricated into gel beads by using this approach. We also demonstrate that self‐assembled multicomponent gel beads can be formed by using different combinations of these gelators. The different gel bead formulations exhibit different responsiveness – the DBS‐COOH network can disassemble within those beads in which it is present upon raising the pH. To exemplify preliminary data for a potential application for these hybrid gel beads, we explored aspects of the delivery of the lipid‐lowering active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) rosuvastatin. The release profile of this statin from the hybrid gel beads is pH‐dependent, with greater release at pH 7.4 than at pH 4.0 – primary control of this process results from the pKa of the API. The extent of pH‐mediated API release is also significantly further modified according to gel bead composition. The DBS‐COOH/alginate beads show rapid, highly effective drug release at pH 7.4, whereas the three‐component DBS‐COOH/DBS‐CONHNH2/alginate system shows controlled slow release of the API under the same conditions. These initial results indicate that such gel beads constitute a promising, versatile and easily tuned platform suitable for further development for controlled drug‐delivery applications.
Structural Modulation on NiCo2S4Nanoarray by N Doping to Enhance 2e‐ORR Selectivity for Photothermal AOPs and Zn−O2Batteries**
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Yin Xunkai , Fu Jingnuo , Ke Di
Published: August 2021

As a H2O2 generator, a 2e− oxygen reduction reaction active electrocatalyst plays an important role in the advanced oxidation process to degrade organic pollutants in sewage. To enhance the tendency of NiCo2S4 towards the 2e− reduction reaction, N atoms are doped in its structure and replace S2−. The result implies that this weakens the interaction between NiCo2S4 and OOH*, suppresses O−O bond breaking and enhances H2O2 selectivity. This electrocatalyst also shows photothermal effect. Under photothermal heating, H2O2 produced by the oxidation reduction reaction can decompose and releaseOH, which degrades organic pollutants through the advanced oxidation process. Photothermal effect induced by the advance oxidation process shows obvious advantages over the traditional Fenton reaction, such as wide pH adaptation scope and low secondary pollutant due to its Fe2+ free character. With Zn as anode and the electrocatalyst as cathode material, a Zn−O2 battery is assembled. It achieves electricity generation and photothermal effect induced by the advance oxidation process simultaneously.
Protection of Ag Clusters by Metal‐Oxo Modules
Authors: Fan Xi , Chen Shuai , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2021

Monodisperse and atomically precise Ag nanoclusters have attracted considerable recent research interest. A conventional silver cluster usually consists of a silver metallic kernel and an organic peripheral ligand shell. Nevertheless, the present inevitable problem is the unsatisfied stability of such nanoclusters. In this concept, we will give an introduction to Ag clusters protected by metal‐oxo modules, which exhibit enhanced stability and unique properties. Accordingly, three different types of clusters are summarized: (1) Ag clusters protected by mononuclear oxometallates; (2) Ag clusters protected by block‐like metal‐oxo clusters; (3) Ag clusters protected by hollow‐like metal‐oxo clusters. The aim of this concept is to offer possible general guidance and insight into future rational design of more metal‐oxo clusters protected silver clusters or even other coinage metal nanoclusters.
School allergy training promotes internal policy review and enhances staff's preparedness in managing pupils with food allergy
Authors: Raptis George , Totterdell Rebecca , Gerasimidis Konstantinos , Michaelis Louise Jane , Perez‐Botella Mercedes
Published: August 2021

Background

Recently non‐statutory allergy management guidance for schools has been produced in the United Kingdom; however, there has been limited progress in implementing this. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of face‐to‐face training on self‐reported school staff preparedness in managing the severely allergic child and whether it would stimulate schools' allergy policy review.

Methods

A preparedness survey was conducted prior and 2 months post‐intervention to assess the effect of training on self‐reported preparedness and perceived confidence to manage children with food allergies.

Results

A sample of 18 primary schools that consented to participate were selected. Of the trained schools, 89% of the head teachers felt confident in dealing with an allergy emergency compared to 39% prior training (p = 0.016). Post‐intervention all but one had arranged/were considering introducing allergy awareness sessions to help pupils manage their allergies (45% pre‐training vs. post‐training 93%, p = 0.003). Preventative measures for accidental exposure to food allergens (i.e., no food sharing policy) were adopted by all (pre‐training 61% vs. post‐training 100%, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

A face‐to‐face school allergy training programme enhances self‐reported staff preparedness and promotes internal allergy policy review in managing the needs of these children, hence addressing the current gap between recommendations and practice in schools.
Factors impacting the time to ovarian cancer diagnosis based on classic symptom presentation in the United States
Authors: Huepenbecker Sarah P. , Sun Charlotte C. , Fu Shuangshuang , Zhao Hui , Primm Kristin , Giordano Sharon H. , Meyer Larissa A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Patients with ovarian cancer often present with late‐stage disease and nonspecific symptoms, but little is known about factors affecting the time to diagnosis (TTD) in the United States.

Methods

A retrospective, population‐based study of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare database was conducted. It included women 66 years old or older with stage II to IV epithelial ovarian cancer with at least 1 code for abdominal/pelvic pain, bloating, difficulty eating, or urinary symptoms within 1 year of the cancer diagnosis. TTD was defined from the first claim with a prespecified symptom to the ovarian cancer diagnosis. Kruskal‐Wallis tests were used to assess for differences in TTD by group medians. Univariate and generalized linear models with a log‐link function evaluated TTD by covariables.

Results

For the 13,872 women analyzed, the mean and median times to diagnosis were 2.9 and 1.1 months, respectively. The median TTD differed significantly by first symptom (P < .001), number of symptoms (P < .001), and first physician specialty seen (P < .001). In a multivariable analysis, TTD differed significantly according to race/ethnicity (P < .001), geographic region (P = .001), urban‐rural location (P = .031), emergency room presentation (P < .001), and number of specialties seen (P < .001). A shorter TTD was associated with a diagnosis in 2006‐2010 (relative risk [RR], 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87‐0.98) or 2011‐2015 (RR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.81‐0.93) in comparison with 1992‐1999.

Conclusions

The time from a symptomatic presentation to care to a diagnosis of ovarian cancer is influenced by clinical and demographic variables. This study's findings reinforce the importance of educating all physicians on ovarian cancer symptoms to aid in diagnosis.

Lay Summary

Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed once disease has spread because the classic symptoms of ovarian cancer—abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, difficulty eating, and urinary issues—can be mistaken for other problems.

This study examined the time between when women with classic ovarian cancer symptoms went to a physician and when they received a cancer diagnosis in a large database population.

The authors found that the time to diagnosis differed according to the type and number of symptoms and what type of physician a woman saw as well as factors such as race, geographic location, and year of diagnosis.
Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of High‐Volume Subcutaneous Crenezumab, With and Without Recombinant Human Hyaluronidase in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Dolton Michael J. , Chesterman Aaron , Moein Anita , Sink Kaycee M. , Waitz Ariel , Blondeau Kathleen , Kerchner Geoffrey A. , Hu Nan , Brooks Logan , Wetzel‐Smith Monica K. , Roden Amanda , Deshmukh Ajay , Peng Kun , Carrasco‐Triguero Montserrat , Smith Jill , Ostrowitzki Susanne , Quartino Angelica
Published: August 2021

Compared with intravenous formulations, subcutaneous (s.c.) formulations of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies may provide increased patient access and more convenient administration options, although historically high‐volume s.c. administration (> 10–15 mL) has been challenging. We report results from two phase I studies in healthy participants (GP29523 and GP40201) that evaluated s.c. crenezumab, an anti‐Aβ monoclonal antibody in development for individuals at risk for autosomal‐dominant Alzheimer’s disease. GP29523 assessed safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) in 68 participants (aged 50–80 years) who received single ascending doses (600–7,200 mg) of crenezumab or placebo (4–40 mL). GP40201 assessed safety, tolerability, and PK in 72 participants (aged 18–80 years) who received different combinations of dose (1,700–6,800 mg), infusion volume (10–40 mL), and flow rate (2–4 mL/minute), with/without recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20). There were no serious or dose‐limiting adverse events in either study. There were no meaningful differences in pain scores among reference placebo (4 mL), test placebo (4–40 mL), or crenezumab (600–7,200 mg) in GP29523, or across treatments with varying infusion volume, flow rate, dose, or rHuPH20 co‐administration or concentration in GP40201. Transient erythema was the most common infusion site reaction in both studies. In GP40201 at volumes of ≥ 20 mL, rHuPH20 co‐administration appeared to reduce infusion site swelling incidence, but, in some cases, was associated with larger areas of infusion site erythema. Crenezumab exhibited approximately dose‐proportional PK, and s.c. bioavailability was 66% and independent of dose or rHuPH20 co‐administration. High‐dose, high‐concentration, high‐volume s.c. crenezumab formulated with/without rHuPH20 was well‐tolerated in healthy participants, with an acceptable safety profile.
Investigations on the effect of process parameters on the growth of vertically oriented graphene sheet in plasma‐enhanced chemical vapour deposition system
Authors: Gupta Neha , Gupta Ravi , Sharma Suresh C.
Published: August 2021

A multistage numerical model comprising the plasma kinetics and surface deposition sub‐models is developed to study the influence of process parameters, namely, total gas pressure and input plasma power on the plasma chemistry and growth characteristics of vertically oriented graphene sheets (VOGS) grown in the plasma‐enhanced chemical vapour deposition system containing the Ar + H2 + C2H2 reactive gas mixture. The spectral and spatial distributions of temperature and number densities, respectively, of plasma species, that is, charged and neutral species in the plasma reactor, are examined using inductively coupled plasma module of COMSOL Multiphysics 5.2 modelling suite. The numerical data from the computational plasma model are fed as the input parameters for the surface deposition model, and from the simulation results, it is found that there is a significant drop in the densities of various plasma species as one goes from the bulk plasma region to the substrate surface. The significant loss of the energetic electrons is observed in the plasma region at high pressure (for constant input power) and low input power (for constant gas pressure). At low pressure, the carbon species generate at higher rates on the catalyst nanoislands surface, thus enhancing the growth and surface density of VOGS. However, it is found that VOGS growth rate increases when input plasma power is raised from 100 to 300 W and decreases with further increase in the plasma power. A good comparison of the model outcomes with the available experimental results confirms the adequacy of the present model.
Elevated temperature increases reproductive investment in less preferred mates in the invasive European corn borer moth
Authors: Enos Arielle N. , Kozak Genevieve M.
Published: August 2021

Rapidly changing environments may weaken sexual selection and lead to indiscriminate mating by interfering with the reception of mating signals or by increasing the costs associated with mate choice. If temperature alters sexual selection, it may impact population response and adaptation to climate change. Here, we examine how differences in temperature of the mating environment influence reproductive investment in the European corn borer moth (Ostrinia nubilalis). Mate preference in this species is known to be related to pheromone usage, with assortative mating occurring between genetically distinct E and Z strains that differ in the composition of female and male pheromones. We compared egg production within and between corn borer lines derived from four different populations that vary in pheromone composition and other traits. Pairs of adults were placed in a mating environment that matched the pupal environment (ambient temperature) or at elevated temperature (5°C above the pupal environment). At ambient temperature, we found that within‐line pairs produced eggs sooner and produced more egg clusters than between‐line pairs. However, at elevated temperature, between‐line pairs produced the same number of egg clusters as within‐line pairs. These results suggest that elevated temperature increased investment in matings with typically less preferred, between‐line mates. This increased investment could result in changes in gene flow among corn borer populations in warming environments.
Increased pulsatility index is associated with adverse outcomes in left ventricular assist device recipients
Authors: Tucanova Zuzana , Ivak Peter , Wohlfahrt Peter , Pol Marek , Hlavacek Daniel , Konarik Miroslav , Szarszoi Ondrej , Netuka Ivan , Pitha Jan
Published: August 2021

Aims

Recipients of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are exposed to increased risk of adverse clinical events. One of the potential contributing factors is non‐pulsatile flow generated by LVAD. We evaluated the association of flow patterns in carotid arteries and of increased arterial stiffness with death and cerebrovascular events in LVAD recipients.

Methods and results

We analysed data from 83 patients [mean age 54 ± 15 years; 12 women; HeartMate II (HMII), n = 34; HeartMate 3 (HM3), n = 49]. Pulsatile and resistive indexes, atherosclerotic changes in carotid arteries (measured by duplex ultrasound), and arterial stiffness [measured by Endo‐PAT 2000 as the augmentation index standardized for heart rate (AI@75)] were evaluated 3 and 6 months after LVAD implantation. Sixteen patients died during follow‐up (27.3 months; interquartile range 15.7–44.3). After adjusting for the main variables examined, the pulsatility index measured at 3 months was positively associated with increased hazard ratios (HR) for death and cerebrovascular events [HR 9.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.62–59.42], with HR increasing after adding AI@75 to the model (HR 18.8, 95% CI 2.44–145.50). In HM3 recipients, HR was significantly lower than in HMII recipients (HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.11–0.91), but the significance disappeared after adding AI@75 to the model (HR 0.33, 95% CI 0.09–1.18).

Conclusions

The risk of death and cerebrovascular events in LVAD recipients is associated with increased pulsatility index in carotid arteries and potentiated by increased arterial stiffness. The same risk is attenuated by HM3 LVAD implantation, but this effect is weakened by increased arterial stiffness.
Structural, Electronic, and Thermochemical Preference for Multi‐PCET Reactivity of Ruthenium(II)‐Amine and Ruthenium(IV)‐Amido Complexes
Authors: Cattaneo Mauricio , Parada Giovanny A. , Tenderholt Adam L. , Kaminsky Werner , Mayer James M.
Published: August 2021

The multiredox reactivity of bioinorganic cofactors is often coupled to proton transfers. Here we investigate the structural, thermochemical, and electronic structure of ruthenium‐amino/amido complexes with multi‐ proton‐coupled electron transfer reactivity. The bis(amino)ruthenium(II) and bis(amido)ruthenium(IV) complexes [RuII(bpy)(en*)2]2+ (RuII‐H0) and [RuIV(bpy)(en*‐H2)2]2+ (RuIV‐H2) interconvert reversibly with the transfer of 2e−/2H+ (bpy=2,2’‐bipyridine, en*=2,3‐diamino‐2,3‐dimethylbutane). X‐ray structures allow correlations between the structural and electronic parameters, and the thermochemical data of the 2e−/2H+ multi‐square grid scheme. Redox potentials, acidity constants and DFT calculations reveal potential intermediates implicated in 2e−/2H+ reactivity with organic reagents in non‐protic solvents, which shows a strong inverted redox potential favoring 2e−/2H+ transfer. This is suggested to be an attractive system for potential one‐step (concerted) transfer of 2e−and 2H+ due to the small changes of the pseudo‐octahedral geometries and the absence of charge change, indicating a relatively small overall reorganization energy.
Simultaneous Electrochemical Determination of Paracetamol and Allura Red in Pharmaceutical Doses and Food Using a Mo(VI) Oxide‐Carbon Paste Microcomposite
Authors: Nagles Edgar , Ceroni Mario , Villanueva Huerta Claudia , Hurtado John J.
Published: August 2021

This work presents a new application for MoO3 combined with carbon paste to prepare a microcomposite electrode (Mo(VI)Ox/CPE) for the simultaneous determination of paracetamol (PCM) and Allure Red (AR) by square‐wave voltammetry (SWV). The anodic peak currents for PCM and AR were 70.0 and 80.0 % high compared with an unmodified carbon paste electrode. The surface areas of Mo(VI)Ox/CPE and CPE were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry. The detection limit were 0.14 and 0.38 μmol/L for PCM and AR respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) were 2.0 % (n=7). Stability, shelf life and possible interferences were also evaluated with very acceptable results.
Effects of applying Bidens species straw to Cd‐contaminated soil on growth and cadmium accumulation of Ziziphus Acidojujuba seedlings
Authors: Li Xuelian , Tan Biqi , Ma Qiaoli , Zeng Yuge , Wang Yang , Tao Shangyu , Zhang Huifen , Zhang Xiaoai , Luo Xian , Deng Qunxian
Published: August 2021

A pot experiment was conducted to study the effects of Bidens species straw application to cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil on Ziziphus acidojujuba seedlings growth. Four treatments were prepared in the Cd‐contaminated soil (Cd concentration of 10 mg kg−1): no treatment (control), or separate application of Bidens pilosa, Bidens biternata, or Bidens parviflora straw. Z. acidojujuba seedlings were planted in each soil treatment. Application of B. biternata straw increased the biomass and photosynthetic pigment content of Z. acidojujuba seedlings. Application of B. pilosa straw decreased the biomass, but increased the photosynthetic pigment content of Z. acidojujuba seedlings. Application of B. parviflora straw increased the root biomass and photosynthetic pigment content of Z. acidojujuba seedlings. Application of all Bidens sp. straw improved the antioxidant enzyme activities in Z. acidojujuba seedlings, but also increased the Cd content and Cd transport factor of Z. acidojujuba seedlings. In short, because of the increase in Cd content of Z. acidojujuba seedlings, applying Bidens sp. straw is not suitable for remediation of Cd‐contaminated soil in jujube orchards.
The design of the Crossrail tunnels in UK
Authors: Thomas Alun
Published: August 2021

This paper will focus on the use of fibre reinforced concrete on the Crossrail project in the UK. Crossrail (now named The Elizabeth Line) is a new railway running from West to East under the centre of London. This railway runs for approximately 14 km underground and five of the new stations were constructed with permanent sprayed concrete linings. Fibre reinforced concrete played a prominent role in all of the tunnelling – both for the segmental linings and the sprayed concrete tunnel (SCL) linings. Having reviewed the context of the project and the state‐of‐the‐art in tunnel design at the time of the design, this paper will describe the design approach for both the TBM and mined tunnels and their fibre reinforced linings. While the segmental lining design followed a conventional approach, the SCL tunnels adopted an innovative design with the first major application of permanent sprayed concrete in the UK and featured the first use of a spray applied waterproofing membrane (SAWM) on a major project in Europe. Performance during construction will be reviewed and conclusions will be drawn on what can be learnt from the mega project.
Advanced design of large cavern intersections in soft ground without conventional bar reinforcement
Authors: Laubbichler Jürgen , Schwind Thomas , Gakis Angelos , Sanz Alejandro , Soto Francisco
Published: August 2021

The design of three mined stations in Toronto as part of the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Project involved several intersections of large tunnels situated in the heterogenous, water‐bearing glacial till deposits. The most challenging openings, 220 m2 each, were formed in the two sides of the 18 m high cross‐cut tunnels to allow the excavation of the 18 m wide platform caverns. A key objective for the design was the optimization of the tunnel shapes and the advanced simulation of the fibre reinforced shotcrete properties, to allow these openings in the initial tunnel linings to be achieved without conventional bar reinforcement or thickenings, thus simplifying and accelerating the construction, whilst reducing health and safety risks.

Advanced numerical analyses were utilized to simulate the staged excavation and support steps introducing advanced material models that accounted for the non‐linear behaviour of both soil and structural elements. The end product was an optimized design of the tunnel linings with synthetic fibre reinforced shotcrete without conventional reinforcement that was successfully implemented in the construction.
Structural design of precast segmental lining reinforced by steel fibres
Authors: Zeuli Vincenzo , Maier Christof , Diaz José Manuel Suarez , Saeed Fahed Ahmed , Tharamapalan Jayapregasham , Germani Carlo , Bayer Lars , Atzl Georg
Published: August 2021

Dubai Municipality awarded to Porr Besix JV the Project for the Main Tunnel component of the Deep Storm Water System. The tunnel will collect both rainwater and groundwater from approximately 500 sq. km and transfer the captured flow to the sea. The Design Builder JV selected COWI as Designer of the entire Project and IC Consultant as Design Checker for the Tunnels. The Project includes approximately 10.3 km of 10‐meter‐inside diameter tunnel in rock, three construction shafts and one drop shaft. The main tunnel will convey stormwater and groundwater flows from the EXPO 2020 area near the intersection of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Jebal Ali Lehbab Road to the sea close to the EGA facility. The tunnel will follow beneath the road easement along Jebal Ali Lehbab Road and along Sheikh Zayed Road and continue to the pumping station. The tunnel traversed through the Barzaman and Fars formation with an overburden of 33 m with maximum water pressure of 4.4 bar and was excavated by EPB TBMs. This project is characterized by its dimensions with an internal diameter of 10 m and 350 mm of segment thickness, and by the use of steel fibre reinforced concrete in the precast segmental lining. The use of fibres aims to reduce the CO2 footprint obtaining an optimized design from the environmental point of view. These facts are associated to a complex design of precast segments, in order to ensure their structural competence and their integrity according to the durability requirements, under large thrust forces (temporary loads) and permanent load. Hence, considering such complexities, the structural design has been carried out producing a 3D structural model by means of a sophisticated FEM structural software. Results of the model allow to identify areas of the segment where spalling and bursting stresses are generated along circumferential joints and maximum value of those stresses in the temporary load cases. Moreover, a structural design verification of the segment has been undertaken considering the contribution of steel fibres class 4c, as it is set up in the FIB model code, aiming to ensure that the precast segments are structurally competent and fulfil the durability requirements of the Project. The article details the design approach and the independent checker design verification approach. The experience gained during construction is also reported, describing challenging aspects of the Tunnel execution and an analysis of the lining damages.
On the effect of uncertainty on personal vaccination decisions
Authors: Courbage Christophe , Peter Richard
Published: August 2021

This study investigates the effect of ambiguity on personal vaccination decisions. We first characterize the vaccination decision in the absence of ambiguity. We then show that uncertainty about the probability of side effects and the efficacy of the vaccine always reduces take‐up under ambiguity aversion. However, uncertainty about the underlying disease, being the probability of sickness or the probability of a severe course of disease, may either encourage or discourage vaccination. Our results are relevant for policy because reducing uncertainty associated with the vaccine always has the desired effect whereas reducing uncertainty associated with the disease may have unintended consequences.
Association between body mass index and colorectal adenomas: Findings from a case‐control study in Vietnam
Authors: Luu Hung N. , Tran Mo Thi , Nguyen Mai Vu‐Tuyet , Tuong Thuy Thi‐Van , Tran Quang Hong , Le Linh Cu , Pham Huong Thi‐Thu , Ha Hien Thi‐Thu , Shrubsole Martha J. , Cai Qiuyin , Ye Fei , Boffetta Paolo , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Tran Chi Thi‐Du
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer is a leading cancer worldwide and in Vietnam. Adenomas (adenomatous polyps) is an important precursor of colorectal cancer. There is currently no study to determine the modifiable risk factors for colorectal adenomas, including body mass index (BMI) in Vietnam. We conducted an individually matched case‐control study of 1149 colorectal adenomas and 1145 controls in a large‐scale colorectal screening program involving 103 542 individuals aged 40‐75 years old in Hanoi, Vietnam. Conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between BMI and colorectal adenomas prevalence, after controlling for potential confounders. Overall, comparing to normal weight (ie, 18.5‐22.9 kg/m2), underweight (ie, BMI < 18.5) was associated with a non‐statistically significant increased prevalence of colorectal adenomas (odd ratio [OR] = 1.29 and 95% confident interval [CI]: 0.88‐1.87). This association became significant among male (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.20‐3.27), male who were ever smokers (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.33‐5.03), nonregular exercise (OR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.26‐4.73) and individuals with cardiometabolic disorders (OR = 3.46, 95% CI: 1.19‐10.00). The association between underweight and colorectal adenomas did not vary by smoking status, drinking status, family history of cancer, adenomas types or cardiometabolic disorders. No association was observed among obese individuals (BMI ≥ 25). In the population with low prevalence of obesity, we found that the association between BMI and colorectal adenomas followed a reversed J‐shape that underweight was associated with increased prevalence. Further studies are, therefore, warranted to replicate our results and to investigate the biologic mechanism the effect of underweight on colorectal adenomas prevalence.
“My Eyes Move Dynamically”: Inquiring into Adult English Learners’ Reading Through Retrospective Eye Movement Miscue Analysis
Authors: Wang Yang , Arslan‐Ari Ismahan
Published: August 2021

This paper investigated two adult English learners’ reading processes of reading informational texts through Retrospective Eye Movement Miscue Analysis (REMMA). The readers read two texts and retold what they read. Their reading was recorded by the Tobii Pro eye tracker. They watched their eye movement video and discussed their miscues and eye movements. The REMMA sessions helped the readers realize their misconception about reading, understand reading is meaning‐making, uncover their strategies, and grow confidence. When readers have illusions about reading, secondary teachers and adult educators could invite them to share their reading views, talk about their reading, and discuss the importance of using images in informational texts.
Contagious switching
Authors: Owyang Michael T. , Piger Jeremy , Soques Daniel
Published: August 2021

We analyze the propagation of recessions across countries using a model with multiple qualitative state variables in a vector autoregression (VAR). The VAR may include country‐level variables to determine whether policy also propagates across countries. We consider versions of the model with observed discrete states or unobserved discrete states, where the latter is inferred from fluctuations in economic data. We apply the model to Canada, Mexico, and the United States to test if spillover effects were similar before and after the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). We find that trade liberalization increased business cycle propagation across the three countries.
Implicit solvation in domain based pair natural orbital coupled cluster (DLPNO‐CCSD) theory
Authors: Garcia‐Ratés Miquel , Becker Ute , Neese Frank
Published: August 2021

A nearly linear scaling implementation of coupled‐cluster with singles and doubles excitations (CCSD) can be achieved by means of the domain‐based local pair natural orbital (DLPNO) method. The combination of DLPNO‐CCSD with implicit solvation methods allows the calculation of accurate energies and chemical properties of solvated systems at an affordable computational cost. We have efficiently implemented different schemes within the conductor‐like polarizable continuum model (C‐PCM) for DLPNO‐CCSD in the ORCA quantum chemistry suite. In our implementation, the overhead due to the additional solvent terms amounts to less than 5% of the time the equivalent gas phase job takes. Our results for organic neutrals and open‐shell ions in water show that for most systems, adding solvation terms to the coupled‐cluster amplitudes equations and to the energy leads to small changes in the total energy compared to only considering solvated orbitals and corrections to the reference energy. However, when the solute contains certain functional groups, such as carbonyl or nitrile groups, the changes in the energy are larger and estimated to be around 0.04 and 0.02 kcal/mol for each carbonyl and nitrile group in the solute, respectively. For solutes containing metals, the use of accurate CC/C‐PCM schemes is crucial to account for correlation solvation effects. Simultaneously, we have calculated the electrostatic component of the solvation energy for neutrals and ions in water for the different DLPNO‐CCSD/C‐PCM schemes. We observe negligible changes in the deviation between DLPNO‐CCSD and canonical‐CCSD data. Here, DLPNO‐CCSD results outperform those for Hartree‐Fock and density functional theory calculations.
Photoelectrochemical biosensor for lead ion determination based on complementary strand aptamers
Authors: Niu Yanyan , Chen Yuxue , Zhang Xiaoping , Xie Hui , Luo Guiling , Sun Wei
Published: August 2021

Lead ion causes heavy metal pollution, which can cause serious damage to the ecological environment and human health. In this paper, a simple and sensitive photoelectrochemical method was designed for lead ion detection by using ZnO nanorods as the photoactive substrate and complementary strand aptamers as target recognition element. ZnO nanorods with favorable stability and photoelectric activity can provide a biocompatible microenvironment for aptamer loading. In the presence of lead ion, it would combine with the recognition aptamer S2 by competing with the aptamer S1, which led to changes in surface structure and charge density before and after the recognition of target, causing regular response of photocurrent. The developed method under optimized experimental conditions presented high sensitivity and good selectivity for lead ion detection with low detection limit as 3.5 × 10−11 mol/L. In addition, the proposed strategy was also further applied to the detection of lake water sample, which provided reliable experimental support and basis for further exploration and establishment of complex aptamer recognition and detection system.
Levels of SERPIN family proteins in peri‐implant crevicular fluid in patients with peri‐implantitis
Authors: Jiang Jianhui , Gao Guanglin , Wang Qingmei
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Serine protease inhibitors (SERPINs) family has been discovered in many disorders with proteolysis mechanisms. Our study determined the SERPINBs protein expression via public‐based GEO databases and further validated by peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) of peri‐implantitis patients and healthy recruiters.

Methods

This study is a retrospective analysis. A total of 123 participants of Fujian Medical University Fujian Stomatological Hospital, consisting of 58 cases of peri‐implantitis and 65 samples of healthy control were retrospectively analyzed by ELISA assays and explored the gene enrichment pathways and clinical significance of SERPINBs expression accompanied by two different cytokines (IL‐6 and TNF‐α). Moreover, the clinical significance of SERPINBs was evaluated in peri‐implantitis patients with PICF samples by the receiver operating curve (ROC) using the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

KEGG database showed that Starch and sucrose metabolism, Retrograde endocannabinoid signaling, Prion diseases, Pentose phosphate pathways, and Olfactory pathways are up‐regulated; GO database showed that synapse organization, synapse assembly, sequestering of triglyceride, sensory perception of smell, and regulation of synapse organization pathways are up‐regulated. SERPINBs were overexpressed in peri‐implant tissues and peri‐implantitis patients with PICF. SERPINBs was positively correlated to IL‐6 and TNF‐α in peri‐implantitis patients with PICF. The ROC‐AUCs of SERPINBs achieved a significantly higher range from 0.895 to 0.939 in peri‐implantitis patients with PICF. Therefore, certain SERPINBs expressions were not only perceived through PICF and peri‐implant tissues but also showed potential significance in peri‐implantitis.

Conclusion

SERPINBs play an influential role in the pathogenesis of peri‐implantitis via binding with other inflammatory cytokines.
A study of molybdena catalysts in ethanol oxidation. Part 1. Unsupported and silica‐supportedMoO3
Authors: Pampararo Giovanni , Garbarino Gabriella , Ardoino Niccolò , Riani Paola , Busca Guido
Published: August 2021

Background

Acetaldehyde is a main organic intermediate for manifold chemical products. In the near future, its production using renewable raw materials is rapidly becoming highly desirable. In this paper, investigations on pure and silica‐supported molybdenum oxide (MoO3) as catalysts for the ethanol oxidative dehydrogenation process to acetaldehyde are reported.

Results

Acicular pure α‐MoO3crystals and silica‐gel supported MoO3(1, 5 and 12% wtMoO3/wtsupport) were prepared by the thermal decomposition method and by incipient wetness impregnation, respectively. Catalysts were studied and extensively characterized assessing structural, morphological and chemical properties. The samples were tested in ethanol oxidative dehydrogenation through Temperature Programmed Surface Reaction (TPSR) and steady‐state measurements. MoO3/SiO2samples were constituted by MoO3particles weakly interacting with the support, but also by some molybdate species entering the silica framework and significantly modifying the silica morphology. High catalyst acidity limits oxydehydrogenation yield, catalyzing the competitive dehydration reaction to ethylene. Thus, the highest obtained acetaldehyde yield was ≈60%. Molybdenum loss by MoO3volatilization was found on MoO3/SiO2.

Conclusion

The produced and characterized catalysts are active, and allow quite a high yield to acetaldehyde. Slight deactivation was observed and also investigated. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Adolescent well‐being amid the COVID‐19 pandemic: Are girls struggling more than boys?
Authors: Halldorsdottir Thorhildur , Thorisdottir Ingibjorg Eva , Meyers Caine C. A. , Asgeirsdottir Bryndis Bjork , Kristjansson Alfgeir Logi , Valdimarsdottir Heiddis B. , Allegrante John P. , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora
Published: August 2021

Background

Differential effects of the coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) pandemic and associated public restrictions on adolescent girls and boys are emerging but have not been elucidated. This study examined gender differences across broad indicators of adolescent well‐being during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Iceland, and explored potential explanations for these differences.

Methods

In total, 523 youth (56.5% girls) born in Iceland in 2004 completed measures on mental health problems (depressive symptoms, anger and suicide attempts) and measures designed for this study to assess broad indicators of adolescent well‐being (e.g., day‐to‐day life, academic performance, family and peer relationships, and mental and physical health) and behavioral changes during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Mental health problems during the pandemic were compared to expected scores based on nationwide ratings of same‐aged peers in 2018.

Results

Although both boys and girls appeared affected, girls reported a greater negative impact across all the broad indicators of well‐being and behavioral change during COVID‐19 than boys, and their depressive symptoms were above and beyond the expected nationwide scores (t(1514) = 4.80, p < .001, Cohen's d = 0.315). Higher depressive symptoms were associated with increased passive social media use and decreased connecting with family members via telephone or social media among girls, and decreased sleeping and increased online gaming alone among boys. Concern about others contracting COVID‐19, changes in daily and school routines, and not seeing friends in person were among the primary contributors to poor mental health identified by youth, particularly girls.

Conclusions

Adolescents were broadly negatively affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic and accompanying restrictions; however, this negative impact was more pronounced in girls. The findings suggest that a steady routine and remaining socially connected may help youth cope with the uncertainty and social restrictions associated with a pandemic. Moreover, healthcare providers, teachers, and other professionals should pay close attention to depressive symptoms among girls during a pandemic.
Prolonged symptom onset to admission time is associated with severe Coronavirus disease: A meta combined propensity‐adjusted analysis
Authors: Guan Yingchao , Chen Chaojin , Guo Anping , Wei Jingru , Cai Jiahui , Han Hua , Hei Ziqing , Tan Haizhu , Li Xiaoyun
Published: August 2021

Background

Patients with severe COVID‐19 are more likely to develop adverse outcomes with a huge medical burden. We aimed to investigate whether a shorter symptom onset to admission time (SOAT) could improve outcomes of COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective study combined with a meta‐analysis was performed. The meta‐analysis identified studies published between 1 December 2019 and 15 April 2020. Additionally, clinical data of COVID‐19 patients diagnosed between January 20 and February 20, 2020, at the First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China were retrospectively analyzed.

SOAT and severity of illness in patients with COVID‐19 were used as effect measures. The random‐effects model was used to analyze the heterogeneity across studies. Propensity score matching was applied to adjust for confounding factors in the retrospective study. Categorical data were compared using Fisher's exact test. We compared the differences in laboratory characteristic varied times using a two‐way nonparametric, Scheirer–Ray–Hare test.

Results

In a meta‐analysis, we found that patients with adverse outcomes had a longer SOAT (I2 = 39%, mean difference 0.88, 95% confidence interval = 0.47–1.30). After adjusting for confounding factors, such as age, complications, and treatment options, the retrospective analysis results also showed that severe patients had longer SOAT (mean difference 1.13 [1.00, 1.27], p = 0.046). Besides, most biochemical marker levels improved as the hospitalization time lengthened without the effect of disease severity or associated treatment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Shortening the SOAT may help reduce the possibility of mild patients with COVID‐19 progressing to severe illness.
Effect of Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate on the Wetting Mechanism of Tunliu Coal
Authors: Meng Junqing , Wang Chen , Chen Tianwen
Published: August 2021

Coal dust in the coal mining process may lead to a serious threat to the safety and health of miners. The addition of surfactants during coal seam water infusion can significantly improve the effect of dust suppression, so it is crucial to study the influence mechanism of surfactants on coal wettability. The variation of the hydration film thickness on the Tunliu coal surface at different concentrations of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) solution was investigated by atomic force microscopy. The experimental results indicate that the hydration film thickness increases initially and decreases afterward with the SDBS solution concentration increase, with a maximum value of 11.4 nm. The surface free energy (SFE) of coal molecules adsorbed with different numbers of SDBS molecules were calculated using two coal molecule cell models developed by Materials studio 8.0, and the simulation results display a good agreement with the experiments. The higher the SFE, the greater the hydration film thickness on the coal surface, and the stronger the enhancement effect of SDBS solution on the wettability of coal at the corresponding concentration. The interface formation energy (IFE) and cohesive energy density (CED) of coal molecules after adsorption of SDBS molecules were calculated separately. It was found that when three SDBS molecules were adsorbed, the absolute value of IFE and CED reached the maximum, and each SDBS molecule had the strongest average effect on coal molecules, the bond between them would be tighter. SFE simulations are helpful to optimize the selection of surfactants for practical engineering applications.
The pesticide residue analysis in commodities with high content of chlorophyll based on the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method: A review
Authors: Pszczolińska Klaudia , Kociołek Barbara
Published: August 2021

In multiresidue analysis, the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) is one of the most popular techniques routinely used by researchers during pesticide analysis of food and vegetable samples. Originally, the QuEChERS method was developed for analysis of pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables, but rapidly gained popularity in the extraction of analytes from different matrices. This analytical approach shows several advantages over traditional extraction techniques: it requires lower sample and solvent amounts while shortening the time of sample preparation. However, it presents some limitations for complex matrices such as those containing high amounts of chlorophyll. To overcome the problem of strong matrix effect and influence of interferences, different approaches are applied. Most are concerning modifications of the cleanup step, that is, sorbent type and its amount. Optimization of other parameters, such as sample size, hydration level, extraction solvent, and buffering, also has an impact on overall performance. Combining proper sample preparation with modern highly sensitive and selective detection techniques enables receiving desired limits of quantification. This article presents an overview of strategies employed by researchers for analysis of green, high chlorophyll content commodities and results obtained in their studies.