bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social withdrawal and gender differences: Clinical phenotypes and biological bases
Authors: Masi Gabriele , Berloffa Stefano , Milone Annarita , Brovedani Paola
Published: February 2021

Evidence from everyday life suggests that differences in social behaviors between males and females exist, both in animal and in humans. These differences can be related to socio‐cultural determinants, but also to specialized portions of the brain (the social brain), from the neurotransmitter to the neural network level. The high vulnerability of this system is expressed by the wide range of neuropsychiatric disorders associated with social dysfunctions, particularly social withdrawal. The principal psychiatric disorders with prominent social withdrawal are described, including hikikomori‐like syndromes, and anxiety, depressive, autistic, schizophrenic, and personality disorders. It is hypothesized that social withdrawal can be partially independent from other symptoms and likely reflect alterations in the social brain itself, leading to a similar, transdiagnostic social dysfunction, reflecting defects in the social brain across a variety of psychopathological conditions. An overview is provided of gender effects in the biological determinants of social behavior, including: the anatomical structures of the social brain; the dimorphic brain structures, and the modulation of their development by sex steroids; gender differences in “social” neurotransmitters (vasopressin and oxytocin), and in their response to social stress. A better comprehension of gender differences in the phenotypes of social disorders and in the neural bases of social behaviors may provide new insights for timely, focused, innovative, and gender‐specific treatments.
Projected changes in heat waves over China: Ensemble result from RegCM4 downscaling simulations
Authors: Xie Wenxin , Zhou Botao , Han Zhenyu , Xu Ying
Published: February 2021

Using the dynamical downscaling by the regional climate model RegCM4 from four global climate models, future changes in heat waves (HWs) over China under the RCP4.5 scenario are projected in terms of frequency and magnitude. The magnitude combines the duration and intensity together to characterize HW severity. The ensemble of RegCM4 downscaling simulations indicates a substantial increase in the frequency and magnitude of HWs over China toward the end of the 21st century relative to the current climate (1986–2005). The considerable changes occur in Southwest, South, North, and Northeast China for the frequency and in South, Southwest, East, and Central China for the magnitude. The prolonged HW duration plays a leading role in the enhancement of HW severity. In particular, an accelerated aggravation of the risk of extreme HWs is anticipated. Unusual HWs that never occurred in the current climate are expected to be usual phenomenon. For instance, by the end of the 21st century, the risks of the occurrence of extreme HWs (above the 99th percentile) in Southwest and South China are 64 and 53 times of the current, respectively, while the projected risks of the occurrence of mild HWs (below the 60th percentile) are much smaller and comparable in China. The HW frequency above the maximum of the current would appear once almost every year, and South, Central, and East China (North and Northeast China) would experience more severe HWs than the most extreme of the present every 1–2 (2–4) years.
Early defect identification for micro light‐emitting diode displays via photoluminescent and cathodoluminescent imaging
Authors: Behrman Keith , Fouilloux Julie , Ireland Terry , Fern George R. , Silver Jack , Kymissis Ioannis
Published: February 2021

Ultrahigh‐resolution micro light‐emitting diode (LED) displays are emerging as a viable technology for self‐emissive displays. Several of the critical issues facing micro LED displays with millions of pixels are fidelity, process control, and defect analysis during LED fabrication and transfer. Here, we investigate two non‐destructive test methods, photoluminescent and cathodoluminescent imaging, and compare them with electroluminescent images to verify LED fidelity and evaluate these methods as potential tools for defect analysis. We show that utilizing cathodoluminescent imaging as an analysis tool provides a rich data set that can identify and categorize common defects during micro LED display fabrication that correspond to electroluminescence. Photoluminescent imaging, however, is not an effective method for fidelity analysis but does provide information on dry‐etching uniformity.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in a Cohort of Pregnant Active Duty U.S. Military Servicewomen
Authors: Abramovitz Lisa M. , Lutgendorf Monica A. , Bukowinski Anna T. , Gumbs Gia R. , Conlin Ava Marie S. , Hall Clinton
Published: February 2021

The present study aimed to describe the demographic and occupational characteristics, comorbidities, and psychotropic medication receipt associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis during pregnancy among a sample of active duty U.S. military servicewomen. Data from the U.S. Department of Defense Birth and Infant Health Research program were used to identify pregnancies in active duty servicewomen from 2007 through 2014. Demographic and occupational data were linked with electronic medical and pharmacy records to capture mental health diagnoses and medication receipt dates. Cases of PTSD were identified by the presence of ICD‐9‐CM Diagnostic Code 309.81 on maternal records from 1 year before the date of the last menstrual period through the end of pregnancy. Of 134,244 identified pregnancies among active duty servicewomen, 2,240 (1.7%) met the case criteria for PTSD. Women with a PTSD diagnosis compared to those without a PTSD diagnosis were more likely to be White non‐Hispanic (51.3% vs. 47.4%), unmarried (33.3% vs. 28.2%), in the Army (49.6% vs. 35.8%) or Marine Corps (10.9% vs. 8.0%), in a service and supply occupation (18.2% vs. 13.6%), and to have a junior enlisted rank (56.3% vs. 50.1%) and have been previously deployed (51.2% vs. 39.6%), RRs = 1.15–1.75. Among PTSD cases, the most common mental health comorbidities were depressive disorder (60.9%), adjustment disorder (43.4%), and anxiety disorder (39.3%). During pregnancy, 44.2% of PTSD cases and 7.2% of noncases received psychotropic medications. Demographic and occupational characteristics, comorbidities, and psychotropic medication use differed substantially among PTSD cases and noncases in this large records‐based study.
Contributions of external nutrient loading and internal cycling to cyanobacterial bloom dynamics in Lake Taihu, China: Implications for nutrient management
Authors: Xu Hai , McCarthy Mark J. , Paerl Hans W. , Brookes Justin D. , Zhu Guangwei , Hall Nathan S. , Qin Boqiang , Zhang Yunlin , Zhu Mengyuan , Hampel Justyna J. , Newell Silvia E. , Gardner Wayne S.
Published: February 2021

Harmful cyanobacterial blooms (CyanoHABs) are linked to increasing anthropogenic nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) inputs. However, CyanoHABs in many large lakes continue despite extensive abatement efforts, mostly focused on external P loading. Internal nutrient cycling can modify nutrient availability and limitation; thus, understanding the relative importance of external vs. internal nutrient loading is essential for developing effective mitigation strategies for CyanoHABs. We estimated long‐term nutrient budgets for Lake Taihu, China, from mass balance models using extensive monitoring of input and output nutrient data from 2005 to 2018 to quantify contributions from internal nutrient loading. The nutrient mass balance showed that 9% and 63% of annual external N and P inputs, respectively, were retained in the lake. Denitrification removed 54% of external N loading and can thus help explain rapid decreases in lake N concentrations and summer N limitation. Water columnregeneration can help sustain CyanoHABs over the short term and contributed 38–58% of potentialdemand for summer‐fall,Microcystis‐dominated blooms. Internal P release contributed 23–90% of CyanoHABs P demand, although Taihu was a net P sink on an annual scale. Our results show that internal nutrient cycling helps sustain CyanoHABs in Taihu, despite reductions in external nutrient inputs. Furthermore, N is leaving the lake faster than P, thereby creating persistent N limitation. Therefore, parallel reductions in external N loading, along with P, will be most effective in reducing CyanoHABs and accelerate the recovery process in this and other large, shallow lakes.
On thin ice: Linking elevation and long‐term losses of lake ice cover
Authors: Christianson Kyle R. , Loria Kelly A. , Blanken Peter D. , Caine Nel , Johnson Pieter T. J.
Published: February 2021

Despite long‐term analyses of lake ice phenology globally, comparatively little is known about high‐elevation lakes, for which climate shifts are thought to be occurring faster than at lower elevations. Using a 36‐yr dataset (1983–2018) on alpine lakes (> 3000 m ASL) from the Green Lakes Valley, Colorado (GLV), we found that ice‐cover duration decreased by an average of ~ 24 d, due to both earlier ice‐off (9 d) and especially later ice‐on (15 d). Spring ice thickness also decreased by 0.88 cm yr−1. By comparison, ice‐cover duration in the GLV is decreasing ~ 50% faster than for Northern Hemisphere lakes (n = 215), which translates to an increase in open water duration ~ 2.5 times more in the GLV than the average of the Northern Hemisphere. Our analytical comparison demonstrated more rapid trends in this alpine region compared to lakes more broadly, and especially emphasized the influence of elevation on lake ice phenology.
Effect of high‐density current electropulsing on corrosion cracking of titanium aluminide intermetallic
Authors: Babutskyi Anatolii , Chrysanthou Andreas , Chyzhyk Ganna , de Cortázar Maider García , Egizabal Pedro , Smelina Marija
Published: February 2021

The effect of electropulsing on the corrosion cracking of titanium aluminide produced by self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis has been investigated. The electropulsing treatment led to improved corrosion resistance in sodium fluoride solution and also eliminated corrosion cracking at the α2/γ interface during corrosion in a solution of nitric and hydrofluoric acids. This behavior was attributed to thermal and athermal effects resulting from electropulsing and leading to the interaction of conduction electrons with the defect structure. The effect of magnetic field accompanying electropusling on depinning of dislocations also has been discussed. Support for this is provided on the basis of X‐ray diffraction analysis and microhardness testing.
Acidification of the electrolyte during the galvanic corrosion of AA7075: A numerical and experimental study
Authors: Montoya Rodrigo , Ruiz‐García Allan G. , Ortiz‐Ozuna Alma , Ramírez‐Barat Blanca , Genesca Juan
Published: February 2021

The electrochemical interactions between aluminum alloy 7075 and low‐carbon steels under gelled electrolytes were studied. Such electrolytes provided the opportunity to investigate both thick and thin electrolyte systems. The electrolyte was chemically modified to visually track the acidic fronts during the anodic reaction and the subsequent hydrolysis process. Two mathematical models were validated for both thick and ultrathin electrolytes. The acidification of thick electrolytes was extended some millimeters beyond the aluminum alloy surface, whereas the acidic front was localized next to the metallic joint using ultrathin electrolytes. The combination of both numerical and experimental results allows proving (and explaining why) that the acidification process is more aggressive under dilute than under concentrated electrolytes.
Tuning the Properties of Shape‐Memory Polyurethanes via the Nature of the Polyester Switching Segment
Authors: Karasu Feyza , Weder Christoph
Published: February 2021

Shape‐memory polymers that contain semicrystalline domains with a melting temperature (Tm) above and a crystallization temperature (Tc) below physiological temperature as fixing elements are useful to create medical devices or implants that can be custom‐shaped inside or around the body. With the goal to expand the palette of materials that exhibit such properties, a series of segmented polyurethanes (PUs) containing different crystallizable polyester segments is investigated. The nature of the polyester, its molecular weight, and the ratio of hard to soft segments are systematically varied and the effect on the mechanical, thermal, and shape‐memory properties of the various PUs is studied. Poly(1,12‐dodecylene dodecanoate), poly(1,6‐hexylene dodecanoate), and poly(ethylene sebacate) (PES) are selected as crystallizable polyester segments. The PES‐based PUs display Tc values of 25–35 °C and a Tm of 60–63 °C, and allow good shape fixing at 37 °C.
Open books decompositions of links of minimally elliptic singularities
Authors: Bhupal Mohan
Published: February 2021

We present an explicit Milnor open book decomposition supporting the canonical contact structure on the link of each minimally elliptic singularity whose fundamental cycle Z satisfies . For the Milnor open books whose pages have genus less than three, we give a factorization of the monodromy which does not involve any left‐handed Dehn twists around interior curves. Necessary results regarding the roots of reducible, and irreducible elements in mapping class groups are proved, and some new relations in the mapping class groups are presented.
Negotiating political power and stigma around fragile X Syndrome in a rural village in Cameroon: A tale of a royal family and a community
Authors: Kengne Kamga Karen , Munung Nchangwi Syntia , Nguefack Séraphin , Wonkam Ambroise , De Vries Jantina
Published: February 2021

Background

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a neurogenetic condition that significantly impacts the lives of affected individuals and their families due to its association with intellectual disability (ID) and stigma.

Method

In this paper, we present the findings of an ethnographic study in the community of a patient who received a genetic diagnosis for FXS in Cameroon. This study builds on data from 28 participants of a royal family and 58 from the community who participated in 20 in‐depth interviews and nine focus group discussions.

Results

We identified two types of stigma in this community: public stigma directed towards the royal family and associative stigma experienced by royal family members. We outline the stereotyping labels used for the family and its children with Fragile X Syndrome and describe the stigma‐power dynamic between the community members and the royal family. First, most villagers use less stigmatizing terms to addressing FXS children from the chieftaincy because of their position in society. Secondly, due to their social position, the royal family uses their status to negotiate marriages with community members. From these observations, we can suggest that the primary role of stigma in this community is to keep people away from FXS and keep them down through domination and exploitation.

Conclusion

We advocate that other researchers examine if the same pattern exists in other inheritable forms of ID and conduct more qualitative research on FXS in Africa.
Establishing artificial neural network to investigate thermal properties of carbon nanotube/zinc oxide composite dispersed in water
Authors: Alkanhal Tawfeeq Abdullah
Published: February 2021

Nanofluid refers to the mixture of fluid and solid nanoparticles (NPs). If this mixture contains one NP or fluid, it is called ‘mono nanofluid’ (MN). Further, if this mixture contains more than one NPs or fluid, it is called ‘hybrid nanofluid’ (HN). In this research, first, zinc oxide NP was dispersed in the water base fluid and formed an MN. Then, thermal conductivity (TC) of MN was measured. After that, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) NP was added to the MN and formed an HN. Further, TC of HN was measured. Both MN and HN TCs were compared, and the results revealed that by adding MWCNT, TC enhanced by about 18.79% (from 25.12% of MN to 43.91% of HN). On the other hand, to analyze the phase structure and to observe the microstructure, X‐ray diffraction analysis was examined. The measured TC for both samples was at volume fractions up to 1.0% and temperatures up to 50°C. After an experimental study, two novel correlations were calculated by the curve fitting method for MN and HN individually. In the end, to predict the other Vf and temperature, the artificial neural network approach has been developed.
Ground state solutions for a generalized quasilinear Choquard equation
Authors: Zhang Jing , Ji Chao
Published: February 2021

This paper is concerned with the following quasilinear Choquard equation:

where N ≥ 3, 0 < α < N,
is radial potential,
, and Iα is a Riesz potential. Using the variational method we establish the existence of ground state solutions under appropriate assumptions, that is, nontrivial solution with least possible energy.
Exponential stability of random impulsive pantograph equations
Authors: Vinodkumar A. , Senthilkumar T. , Liu Zhongmin , Li Xiaodi
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study the pth moment exponential stable and pth moment weakly exponential stable results for the random impulsive pantograph delay differential equations (RIPDDEs). Further, we obtained some sufficient conditions by using the method of Lyapunov and Razumukhin technique. Finally, we give several numerical examples with their simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Sex‐Specific Effects of Myo‐Inositol Ingested During Lactation in the Improvement of Metabolic Health in Adult Rats
Authors: Castillo Pedro , Palou Mariona , Otero David , Núñez Paula , Palou Andreu , Picó Catalina
Published: February 2021

Scope

To examine the effects of myo‐inositol supplementation during lactation in male and female rats on metabolic parameters and its potential to reverse metabolic alterations associated with a moderate gestational calorie restriction.

Methods and results

The offspring of control and 25% gestational calorie‐restricted rats are supplemented with myo‐inositol or vehicle throughout lactation and exposed to a Western diet (WD) from 5 to 7 months of age. Blood parameters are measured and gene expression and protein levels in retroperitoneal white adipose tissue (rWAT) and liver are analyzed. In male offspring, but not in females, myo‐inositol supplementation resulted in lower fasting triglyceride and insulin levels and HOMA‐IR at 7 months, and reversed the alterations in these parameters due to gestational calorie restriction. The expression pattern of key genes in metabolism in rWAT and liver support the beneficial effect of myo‐inositol supplementation in reversing metabolic alterations programmed by gestational calorie restriction in male rats.

Conclusions

Myo‐inositol supplementation at physiological doses during lactation improves metabolic health and prevents the programmed trend to develop insulin resistance and hypertriglyceridemia in male rats acquired by inadequate fetal nutrition and exacerbated by a diabetogenic diet in adulthood. The absence of clear effects in females deserves further investigation.
Second Fin Ray Shows Promise for Estimating Ages of Juvenile but Not Adult Lake Sturgeon
Authors: Izzo Lisa K. , Parrish Donna L. , Zydlewski Gayle Barbin , Koenigs Ryan
Published: February 2021

The first marginal pectoral fin ray (fin spine) is the most common structure used for estimating the age of sturgeons, including Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens. However, conflicting results from studies on the effects of fin spine removal have made some managers hesitant about the practice. We investigated whether the second pectoral fin ray, which can be removed in a less invasive procedure, could be used for estimating ages of Lake Sturgeon. Ages estimated from fin spine and second fin ray samples were compared for 53 wild (470 to 1,981 mm TL) and 16 stocked, known-age (ages 8–18) Lake Sturgeon. Mean coefficient of variation for all samples was 12.4% for the fin spine and 17.5% for the second fin ray. In known-age fish, 17% of estimated ages for the fin spine and the second fin ray matched true age. For the remaining estimates, the difference between the second fin ray and true age was greater than the difference between the fin spine and true age (P < 0.05, Wilcoxon’s signed rank test). In juvenile fish (n = 24), 75% of ages estimated from fin spines and second fin rays were within ±4 annuli, which was similar to differences in reader agreement for the same fin spine. Age estimates for adult Lake Sturgeon (n = 45) were less when using the second fin ray relative to the fin spine (up to –34 years). Additionally, poor annulus clarity was observed in >70% of the second fin rays sampled from adult fish. Our results suggest that the second fin ray does not provide reliable age estimates for adult Lake Sturgeon but may have some utility for estimating age of juvenile Lake Sturgeon. Additional research with a larger sample size would be required to provide more conclusive results.
Toward efficient and stable operation of perovskite solar cells: Impact of sputtered metal oxide interlayers
Authors: Cai Linfeng , Zhu Furong
Published: February 2021

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are an emerging photovoltaic technology. PSCs with a power conversion efficiency of 25.2% have been demonstrated. Apart from the encouraging progress made in the efficiency, continuous improvement in operational stability is essential if the PSC technology is to become one of the commercially viable photovoltaic options for applications in renewable energy. In parallel to the development of high‐performance PSCs using environmental‐friendly solution fabrication processes, incorporation of process‐compatible high‐quality metal oxide interlayers for enhancing the stability of PSCs, through passivating the interfacial defects at the perovskite/contact interfaces, enhancing charge extraction, and retarding of the moisture encroachment, is needed. This review discusses the recent research progresses made in the development of different metal oxide interlayers for applications in PSCs, highlighting the functions, process compatibility and advances in high performing stable PSCs.
Predicting response to a community‐based educational workshop on incontinence among community‐dwelling older women: Post hoc analysis of the CACTUS‐D trial
Authors: Fritel Xavier , van den Heuvel Eleanor , Wagg Adrian , Ragot Stéphanie , Tannenbaum Cara
Published: February 2021

Aims

Our goal was to identify which women participating in an educational workshop on incontinence were most likely to benefit from it.

Methods

We included women aged 65 or older, living in the community, and not treated for incontinence despite reporting urinary leakage at least twice a week. The workshop's aims were to change beliefs about accepting incontinence as a normal part of ageing, explain that incontinence is not irreversible, and that solutions exist. We performed structured interviews at 6 and 12 months to assess impressions of improvement (PGI‐I) and changes in both continence (ICIQ‐FLUTS) and quality of life (I‐QOL).

Results

The analysis included 392 women, 39% aged 80 or older and 57% with daily urinary incontinence. Twelve months after the workshop, 16% of women were “much better” (PGI‐I); factors associated with impression of improvement were refusal to believe that incontinence is part of normal ageing at baseline and improvement of urinary symptoms. The median improvement was 4 points on the ICIQ‐FLUTS and 8 on the I‐QOL. Factors associated with a clinically significant improvement in urinary symptoms were more severe baseline urinary incontinence, obesity, and starting Kegel exercises. Factors associated with a clinically significant improvement in quality of life were a poor urinary quality of life at baseline and an age younger than 81 years.

Conclusions

A short, inexpensive and nonmedical intervention can change the mind‐set and behavior of older women with incontinence who are not seeking care. A clinically significant improvement is possible even in women with severe symptoms.
Potential associations of adult nocturia. Results from a national prevalence study
Authors: Azuero Julian , Santander Jessica , Trujillo Carlos Gustavo , Caicedo Juan Ignacio , Zuluaga Laura , Becerra Ana María , Daza Fabián , Rondón Martin , Plata Mauricio
Published: February 2021

Aim

To determine the prevalence of nocturia and associated risk factors in the Colombian population aged ≥18 years old.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional population‐based study conducted in 1060 participants in Colombia. Nocturia was assessed with the Spanish version of the ICIQ‐OAB, using the ICS terminology. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate nocturia prevalence. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine the association of nocturia with predefined variables.

Results

The prevalence of nocturia was 55.9% and it was more common in women than men (53.96% vs. 46.04%; p = .004). At least three episodes of nocturia were observed in 20.37% of the participants who had a severe alteration in their quality of life (p < .01). The bivariate model showed an association between nocturia and obesity (odds ratio [OR], 1.69; 90% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–2.34), diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.99; 90% CI: 1.86–4.83), high blood pressure (OR, 2.04; 90% CI: 1.52–2.72), cardiovascular disease (OR, 1.75; 90% CI: 1.08 – 2.83), depression (OR, 1.89; 90% CI: 1.23–2.89), obstructive sleep apnea (OR, 1.70; 90% CI: 1.17 ‐ 2.46), and childhood enuresis (OR, 1.45; 90% CI: 1.04–2.02). The multivariate model showed an association with obesity (OR, 2.0; 95% CI: 1.14 ‐ 3.51) in women, as well as age ≥ 65 years (OR, 3.18; 95% CI: 1.26 – 8.02) and erectile dysfunction (OR, 3.44; 95% CI: 1.21 – 9.72) in men. Childhood enuresis was significantly associated with nocturia in both genders (OR, 1.61; 95% CI: 1.09 ‐ 2.40 in women and OR, 1.66; 95% CI: 1.09–2.52 in men).

Conclusion

There is a significant prevalence of nocturia in our population and a clear association with impaired quality of life. We consider important to inquire about history of childhood enuresis to define the risk of presenting nocturia in adulthood. Nocturia was associated with multiple comorbidities. Obesity and erectile dysfunction play an important role as modifiable risk factor.
Quartile histogram assessment of glioma malignancy using high b‐value diffusion MRI with a continuous‐time random‐walk model
Authors: Karaman M. Muge , Zhang Jiaxuan , Xie Karen L. , Zhu Wenzhen , Zhou Xiaohong Joe
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility of using a continuous‐time random‐walk (CTRW) diffusion model, together with a quartile histogram analysis, for assessing glioma malignancy by probing tissue heterogeneity as well as cellularity. In this prospective study, 91 patients (40 females, 51 males) with histopathologically proven gliomas underwent MRI at 3 T. The cohort included 42 grade II (GrII), 19 grade III (GrIII) and 29 grade IV (GrIV) gliomas. Echo‐planar diffusion‐weighted imaging was conducted using 17 b‐values (0–4000 s/mm2). Three CTRW model parameters, including an anomalous diffusion coefficient Dm, and two parameters related to temporal and spatial diffusion heterogeneity α and β, respectively, were obtained. The mean parameter values within the tumor regions of interest (ROIs) were computed by utilizing the first quartile of the histograms as well as the full ROI for comparison. A Bonferroni–Holm‐corrected Mann–Whitney U‐test was used for the group comparisons. Individual and combinations of the CTRW parameters were evaluated for the characterization of gliomas with a receiver operating characteristic analysis. All first‐quartile mean CTRW parameters yielded significant differences (p‐values < 0.05) between pair‐wise comparisons of GrII (Dm: 1.14 ± 0.37 μm2/ms; α: 0.904 ± 0.03, β: 0.913 ± 0.06), GrIII (Dm: 0.88 ± 0.21 μm2/ms; α: 0.888 ± 0.01, β: 0.857 ± 0.06) and GrIV gliomas (Dm: 0.73 ± 0.22 μm2/ms; α: 0.878 ± 0.01; β: 0.791 ± 0.07). The highest sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and area‐under‐the‐curve of using the combinations of the first‐quartile parameters were 84.2%, 78.5%, 75.4% and 0.76 for GrII and GrIII classification; 86.2%, 89.4%, 75% and 0.76 for GrIII and GrIV classification; and 86.2%, 85.7%, 84.5% and 0.90 for GrII and GrIV classification, respectively. Quartile‐based analysis produced higher accuracy and area‐under‐the‐curve than the full ROI‐based analysis in all classifications. The CTRW diffusion model, together with a quartile‐based histogram analysis, offers a new way for probing tumor structural heterogeneity at a subvoxel level, and has potential for in vivo assessment of glioma malignancy to complement histopathology.
Terminal‐cost design for model predictive control with linear stage‐costs: A set‐theoretic method
Authors: Danielson Claus
Published: February 2021

This article presents a method for designing stabilizing terminal‐costs for linear model predictive controllers whose stage‐costs are a mixture of weighted 1‐norms and∞‐norms of the system states and inputs. This problem is abstracted by replacing the 1/∞‐norm stage‐costs with convex Minkowski functions. We show that a convex Minkowski terminal‐cost is a control Lyapunov function if and only if the dual of its defining set satisfies a set‐inclusion condition. Furthermore, we show that this set‐inclusion is satisfied by all robust positive invariant sets of a certain dual system. In particular, we show that the minimal convex set that satisfies the set‐inclusion produces the optimal terminal‐cost which is the cost‐to‐go of the corresponding unconstrained infinite‐horizon optimal control problem with convex Minkowski stage‐costs. To reduce the number of constraints in the MPC, we show that the defining set of the Minkowski function can be used as an invariant terminal‐constraint. Finally, we demonstrate our terminal‐cost design procedure for three case studies; a double‐integrator, a galvanometer laser scanner, and a nanosatellite.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Breast Cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gonzalez Lucas , Bardach Ariel , Palacios Alfredo , Peckaitis Claudia , Ciapponi Agustin , Pichón-Riviere Andres , Augustovski Federico
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women. It imposes a huge disease burden and a significant impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Our study focused on HRQoL of patients with BC in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). We conducted a systematic review to identify relevant articles published between 2008 and August 2018. We conducted several meta-analyses and subgroup analyses by country, disease stage, and instrument used (Prospective Register Of Systematic Reviews registration number: CRD42018106835).

Results

From 2,265 initial references, we finally included 75 articles (8,806 participants) that assessed HRQoL. The European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 and B23 modules (34 studies; 8 countries; 4,866 participants) were the most used instruments, followed by the Short Form 36-item, the abbreviated version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument, and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Breast instrument. Only four studies reported specific HRQoL data of patients with metastatic disease. Half the studies were rated as having moderate quality (38/75), and 38% (29/75) as high quality. We identified substantial heterogeneity. As expected, the meta-analyses revealed that patients with metastatic disease reported lower HRQoL values and high symptom burden compared with patients at earlier stages. Similar results can be observed when we compared patients with early breast cancer in active treatment phases versus those in follow-up.

Conclusion

This study provides a synthesis of breast cancer HRQoL reported in LAC and exposes existing evidence gaps. Patients with BC in active treatment or with metastatic disease had worse HRQoL compared with survivors during the follow-up period.

Implications for Practice

This systematic review provides an exhaustive synthesis of breast cancer health-related quality of life in women in the Latin American and Caribbean region. Patients with breast cancer in active treatment or with metastatic disease had worse health-related quality of life compared with survivors during the different follow-up periods. This study also shows important evidence and methods gaps that can help inform future research.
Factors influencing the ballistic impact mechanisms of textile composite materials: a review
Authors: Dewangan Mithilesh Kumar , Panigrahi Sashi Kanta
Published: February 2021

The present study highlights the critical review of several parameters that will affect the ballistic behavior of textile composites. Initially, the paper focusses on the projectile parameters and how its influence will change the overall behavior. Secondly, the effect of the target plate on the overall energy absorption, which is controlled by its material as well as architectures. The further review summarizes the gaps which are still needed to be covered.
Improvement in mechanical properties of recycled polypropylene composite by controlling the length distribution of glass fibers
Authors: Kang Donghoon , Lee Jeong‐Moo , Moon Chorok , Kim Hyung‐Il
Published: February 2021

A change in the length distribution of glass fiber was induced by mixing long glass fiber 30%‐ reinforced polypropylene composites with recycled composites of short glass fiber 30%‐reinforced polypropylene, and the improvement in mechanical properties was investigated. Changes in mechanical properties were confirmed as a function of the number of recycles and mixing ratio of the composites, and the average fiber length and length distribution of the glass fibers were analyzed using a three‐dimensional measuring machine. The tensile strength, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and impact strength of the blend of a once‐recycled composite of short glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene and once‐recycled composite of long glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene in a ratio of 40:60 were 99%, 102%, 100%, and 100% those of a virgin composite of short glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene, respectively. In addition, the average length of the glass fiber of this blend was 0.305 mm, which was similar to that of the virgin composite of short glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (0.313 mm); furthermore, the distribution ratio of long fibers of length 1 mm or more was 5%. The length distribution of the glass fibers was significantly altered by the combination of the recycled composites and the long glass fiber‐reinforced composite; accordingly, the deteriorated mechanical properties of the recycled composites could be significantly recovered.
Clinical and economic evaluation of a surveillance protocol to manage hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation among lymphoma patients with resolved HBV infection receiving rituximab
Authors: Tan Chia Jie , Kumar Rajneesh , Koomanan Narendran , Loo Wei Sheng , Farid Mohamad , Tao Miriam , Somasundaram Nagavalli , Poon Eileen , Chan Jason Yongsheng , Yang Valerie Shiwen , Chang Esther , Lim Soon Thye , Chow Wan Cheng , Chan Alexandre , Tang Tiffany
Published: February 2021

Study Objective

To evaluate a surveillance protocol in managing the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation among lymphoma patients with resolved HBV infection receiving rituximab.

Design

Prospective, single‐arm study.

Setting

National Cancer Centre, Singapore.

Patients

Lymphoma patients with resolved HBV infection and scheduled to receive rituximab‐based treatment.

Intervention

Close monitoring of HBV DNA levels, ie. every 4–6 weeks during rituximab treatment, every 6–8 weeks in the first year post‐treatment, and every 3–4 months in the second year post‐treatment.

Measurements

The efficacy of the surveillance protocol was examined by evaluating the rates of reactivation‐related events. Feasibility was evaluated based on patient adherence. An economic analysis using a cost‐minimization approach was conducted to compare the costs between the surveillance protocol and universal prophylaxis with entecavir 0.5 mg daily up to 1 year after cessation of rituximab.

Main Results:

A total of 66 patients provided analyzable data with a follow‐up period of 966.6 months. No hepatitis flare or reactivation‐related events were detected. The median adherence rate to the surveillance protocol was 90.5%. Cost savings of US$946.40 per patient over the entire surveillance period were achieved if the surveillance protocol was adopted and was most affected by changes in prophylaxis duration and the cost of antiviral prophylaxis.

Conclusions

The surveillance protocol is an effective, feasible and cost‐saving strategy to manage HBV reactivation among lymphoma patients with resolved HBV infection receiving rituximab.
Ground‐penetrating radar, electromagnetic induction, terrain, and vegetation observations coupled with machine learning to map permafrost distribution at Twelvemile Lake, Alaska
Authors: Campbell Seth William , Briggs Martin , Roy Samuel G. , Douglas Thomas A. , Saari Stephanie
Published: February 2021

We collected ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) and frequency‐domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) profiles in 2011 and 2012 to identify the extent of permafrost relative to surface biomass and solar insolation around Twelvemile Lake near Fort Yukon, Alaska. We compared a Landsat‐derived biomass estimate and modeled solar insolation from a digital elevation model to the geophysical measurements. We show correspondence between vegetation type and biomass relative to permafrost extent and seasonal freeze–thaw. Thicker permafrost (≥25 m) was covered by greater biomass, and seasonal thaw depths in these regions were minimal (1 m). Shallow (1–3 m depth) and thin (20–50 cm) newly forming permafrost or frozen layers from the previous winter occurred below northward oriented slopes with thin biomass cover. South‐facing slopes exhibited permafrost when there was enough biomass to shield incoming solar energy. We developed an artificial neural network to predict permafrost extent across the broader region by mapping GPR‐observed instances of permafrost to FDEM, biomass, and terrain observations with 90.2% accuracy. We identified a strong linear correlation (r = −0.77) between permafrost probability and seasonal thaw depth, indicating that our models may also be used to explore thaw patterns and variability in active layer thickness. This study highlights the combined influence of biomass and terrain on the presence of permafrost and the value of evaluating such parameters via remote sensing to predict permafrost spatial or temporal variability. Incorporating diverse geophysical datasets with in‐situ validation into machine learning models demonstrates a useful approach to upscale estimated permafrost extent across large Arctic expanses.
1,3,5‐Trichloro‐2,4,6‐Trinitrobenzene: The Elusive Impurity Standard
Authors: Kelly Kristin , Brown Geoff
Published: February 2021

1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB) is an insensitive high explosive synthesized in two steps; 1,3,5‐trichloro‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TCTNB) is the only intermediate. Due to solubility limitations, TATB is often dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) for liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analyses; however, DMSO is capable of participating in a wide variety of reactions. Intending to use it as an impurity standard, TCTNB was dissolved in DMSO. A stark color change from colorless to yellow accompanied by wavelength and ion chromatogram changes occurred over 24 hours. Three compounds were identified as causing the color change. All three were present in both acetone and DMSO solutions, but, overtime the absorbance spectra of the DMSO solution changed indicating an underlying reaction occurs between these compounds and DMSO. The chemical formulas of impurities present in the TCTNB sample as well as reaction products are identified via quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. The chemical structures are also proposed. The combination of the solvent system, ionization technique, and halogenated/nitrated aromatic ring structures resulted in substitutions of both the chlorine and nitro groups to hydroxyl groups. Three proposed structures were closely related to TCTNB, but only one was detected at a consistent mass and absorbance wavelength in both acetone and DMSO. This compound had undergone a chlorine to hydroxyl substitution and should be utilized for TCTNB detection.
MicroRNA signatures as predictive biomarkers in transarterial chemoembolization‐treated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fawzy Manal S. , Toraih Eman A.
Published: February 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Unfortunately, many patients are diagnosed at a late stage with a delay in the optimal timing for tumor resection. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is currently considered the standard of care for patients with unresectable HCC Barcelona system class B classification. However, the treatment response of HCC patients to TACE varies widely, and there is no reliable marker for predicting a patient's response to TACE. Thus, the identification of patients who are sensitive or resistant to TACE is important for individualized therapy. Recently, our understanding of cancer cell biology has progressed enormously. Much of this progress has been driven by technological advances enabling previously unachievable studies to be performed and yield a constantly evolving picture of the regulatory role of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in tumor biology. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of ncRNA molecules that regulate nearly one‐third of all protein‐coding RNAs. The existing literature indicates that the deregulation of miRNAs can contribute to tumorigenesis and metastasis in multiple cancers, including HCC, via the control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, or metastasis. Analysis and evaluation of this type of regulatory RNA could shed new light on the behavior of many cancers and provide new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as pharmacological targets for novel treatment strategies. To this end, this review highlights the expression and functional roles of miRNAs in TACE‐treated HCC and explores the potential applications of miRNAs as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets.
Low‐Thermal‐Budget Fluorite‐Structure Ferroelectrics for Future Electronic Device Applications
Authors: Kim Hyo Jeong , An Yonghwan , Jung Yong Chan , Mohan Jaidah , Yoo Jeong Gyu , Kim Young In , Hernandez-Arriaga Heber , Kim Harrison Sejoon , Kim Jiyoung , Kim Si Joon
Published: February 2021

Since the first report on the unexpected ferroelectricity of fluorite‐structure oxides in 2011, this topic has provided a pathway for new research directions and opportunities. Based on theoretical calculations and experimental demonstrations, it is now well known that fluorite‐structure ferroelectrics are compatible with complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor technology and exhibit ferroelectric properties at extremely thin (<10 nm) thicknesses. It should be noted that the noncentrosymmetric orthorhombic phase, which is responsible for ferroelectric behavior, is formed even at low temperatures (400 °C or less). Herein, the various factors such as doping effects, deposition method, annealing method and conditions, and substrate material are reviewed, focusing on thermal budget, especially the low‐temperature annealing process for formation of the ferroelectric phase. These low‐thermal‐budget processes facilitate not only the integration of ferroelectric circuits in the back‐end‐of‐line to increase the effective memory area and add more functionalities but also applications for flexible and wearable electronics.
HABS‐Silicate Controlled Synthesis of Worm‐Like Calcite via Orientated Attachment
Authors: Liu Xiangbin , Wang Yanling , Ma Zaiqiang , Zhou Wanfu , Wang Xin , Zhou Huajian , Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Jun , Shi Weiguang
Published: February 2021

Worm‐like calcite crystals were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal method in heavy alkylbenzene sulfonate (HABS)‐ silicate hybrid aqueous system at 45 °C for 48 h. The result indicated that HABS can affect step/kink sites on the growth face of {104} calcite by alternating Ca2+ or CO32− layers, resulting a slight rotation or stacking faults of the subunits, which lead to the worm shape of crystalline aggregates by elongating parallel to the c‐axis of the rhombohedral lattice. The overlapping worm structures were obtained with the synergistic effect of HABS and silicate, which presents an additives‐mediated crystallographically self‐assembly of worm‐like units and also the inheritance of orientated attachment with rhombohedral calcite habits.
Recent Advances on Cyan‐Emitting (480 ≤ λ ≤ 520 nm) Metal Halide Perovskite Materials
Authors: Shen Yueyue , Yan Chuanzhong , Lin Kebin , Zhao Yaping , Xu Shanrong , Zhou Biao , Wei Zhanhua , Yan Keyou
Published: February 2021

Over the past several years, perovskite‐based luminescent materials and devices have attracted considerable research interest and achieved superior performance, including red/near‐infrared, green, and blue regions. Despite the abundant research progress in the above‐mentioned luminous regions, studies on cyan‐emitting perovskites are still lacking. However, cyan‐emitting perovskite materials are of great importance and have many promising applications, especially for high‐quality lighting and light communication. Herein, the recent research progress on perovskite with cyan emission is summarized, including the preparation methods and improvement on device performance. The preparation strategies are categorized into compositional engineering, dimensional engineering, and size engineering. The corresponding device performance is displayed too. Furthermore, the strategies of performance enhancement and future perspectives are proposed in the end. There is hope that this minireview can trigger more attention to this particular emitting region.
Monodisperse Ultrahigh Nitrogen‐Containing Mesoporous Carbon Nanospheres from Melamine‐Formaldehyde Resin
Authors: Guo Dingyi , Fu Yubin , Bu Fanxing , Liang Haichen , Duan Linlin , Zhao Zaiwang , Wang Changyao , El‐Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Li Wei , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: February 2021

An aqueous emulsion polymerization self‐assembly approach is demonstrated for the first time to synthesize ultrahigh nitrogen containing mesoporous polymer nanospheres, using melamine‐formaldehyde resin oligomers as precursors. In the synthesis, change from alkaline to acidic conditions is critical for the formation of monodisperse mesostructured polymer nanospheres. Owing to unique structure of triazine stabilized in the covalent polymeric networks during the pyrolysis process, the derived mesoporous carbon nanospheres possess an ultrahigh nitrogen content (up to 15.6 wt%) even after pyrolysis at 800 °C, which is the highest nitrogen content among mesoporous carbon nanospheres. Furthermore, these monodisperse mesoporous carbon nanospheres possess a high surface area (≈883 m2 g−1) and large pore size (≈8.1 nm). As an anode for sodium‐ion batteries, the ultrahigh nitrogen‐containing mesoporous carbon nanospheres exhibit superior rate capability (117 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 3 A g−1) and high reversible capacity (373 mAh g−1 at 0.06 A g−1), indicating a promising material for energy storage.