bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of four 31P single‐voxel MRS sequences in the human brain at 9.4 T
Authors: Dorst Johanna , Ruhm Loreen , Avdievich Nikolai , Bogner Wolfgang , Henning Anke
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In this study, different single‐voxel localization sequences were implemented and systematically compared for the first time for phosphorous MRS (31P‐MRS) in the human brain at 9.4 T.

Methods

Two multishot sequences, image‐selected in vivo spectroscopy (ISIS) and a conventional slice‐selective excitation combined with localization by adiabatic selective refocusing (semiLASER) variant of the spin‐echo full intensity–acquired localized spectroscopy (SPECIAL‐semiLASER), and two single‐shot sequences, semiLASER and stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM), were implemented and optimized for 31P‐MRS in the human brain at 9.4 T. Pulses and coil setup were optimized, localization accuracy was tested in phantom experiments, and absolute SNR of the sequences was compared in vivo. The SNR per unit time (SNR/t) was derived and compared for all four sequences and verified experimentally for ISIS in two different voxel sizes (3 × 3 × 3 cm3, 5 × 5 × 5 cm3, 10‐minute measurement time). Metabolite signals obtained with ISIS were quantified. The possible spectral quality in vivo acquired in clinically feasible time (3:30 minutes, 3 × 3 × 3 cm3) was explored for two different coil setups.

Results

All evaluated sequences performed with good localization accuracy in phantom experiments and provided well‐resolved spectra in vivo. However, ISIS has the lowest chemical shift displacement error, the best localization accuracy, the highest SNR/t for most metabolites, provides metabolite concentrations comparable to literature values, and is the only one of the sequences that allows for the detection of the whole 31P spectrum, including β–adenosine triphosphate, with the used setup. The SNR/t of STEAM is comparable to the SNR/t of ISIS. The semiLASER and SPECIAL‐semiLASER sequences provide good results for metabolites with long T2.

Conclusion

At 9.4 T, high‐quality single‐voxel localized 31P‐MRS can be performed in the human brain with different localization methods, each with inherent characteristics suitable for different research issues.
Goal setting practices used within anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation: An exploration of physiotherapists understanding, training and experiences
Authors: Alexanders Jenny , Perry John , Douglas Caroline
Published: January 2021

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a common injury that occurs in both the sporting and non‐sporting population. Goal setting is said to be an effective psychological tool within ACL rehabilitation and is commonly used by physiotherapists. To date, literature surrounding goal setting practices is under analysed in relation to qualitative research.

Purpose

The central aim of this study was to explore UK physiotherapists understanding, experiences and training towards goal setting practices used in ACL rehabilitation and whether they are effective.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews involving 24 participants across three specific areas including: National Health Service, elite sport and academia were conducted using an inductive approach. Data analysis included thematic analysis with triangulation and a comprehensive multi‐staged analysis process to enhance trustworthiness, whilst respecting ethical considerations.

Results/Discussion

Participants from all three areas of practice tended to use the same approach which was SMART goals. All participants lacked any theoretical understanding of goals but would welcome further training in the field. Participants were missing important aspects of setting goals such as not addressing expectations and underutilising feedback.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that a call for more psychological training is clearly warranted in both the physiotherapy curriculum and within post graduate CPD training. Creating a specialist interest group (e.g. physiotherapists interested in psychology) may help share good psychological practices and overall enhance understanding in this field.
Melatonin may slow disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Findings from the Pooled Resource Open‐Access ALS Clinic Trials database
Authors: Bald Elizabeth M. , Nance Christopher S. , Schultz Jordan L.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

We utilized the Pooled Resource Open‐Access Clinical Trials (PRO‐ACT) database to investigate whether melatonin use among patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was associated with slower disease progression and prolonged survival.

Methods

This retrospective analysis of the PRO‐ACT database addresses the impact of melatonin on progression and overall survival of ALS. A Cox proportional hazards ratio model was performed to investigate the effect that melatonin had on time to death. For secondary outcome measures, linear mixed effects regression models were used to ascertain the effect of melatonin on change in standardized ALS Functional Rating Scale (sALSFRS) and percentage predicted forced vital capacity (FVC) scores.

Results

Melatonin users had a significantly decreased annualized hazard death rate compared with the non–melatonin users (hazard ratio, 0.241; 95% confidence interval, 0.088‐0.659; P = .0056). The melatonin users also had a slower rate of decline in sALSFRS score (t = 2.71; P = .0069) and change in percent predicted FVC score (t = 2.94; P = .0035) compared with the non–melatonin users.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that melatonin may be beneficial for patients with ALS. Due to the nature of this database, our results are solely intended to be hypothesis‐generating and no strong associations can be made. Given the low cost and favorable safety profile of melatonin, the hypotheses generated warrant further investigation.
The complex association between pain and neuropathy
Authors: Abraham Alon , Lovblom Leif E. , Bril Vera
Published: January 2021

Background

Several studies of patients with polyneuropathy failed to show differences between patients with and without pain. In the current study, we aimed to explore the association between neuropathic symptoms, mainly pain, and polyneuropathy characteristics.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study recruiting 151 patients with non‐diabetic polyneuropathy was performed between November 2016 and May 2017. A total of 38 patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy were excluded. Patients underwent clinical, electrophysiological and functional assessments of their polyneuropathy. Polyneuropathy characteristics were compared depending on the presence and severity of neuropathic symptoms.

Results

The presence and the severity of weakness were associated with a more severe neuropathy as measured by clinical, electrophysiological and functional assessments, while the presence of pain was associated with higher sural amplitudes, and the severity of pain showed a curvilinear association with neuropathy severity.

Conclusions

Our study shows a novel finding of a curvilinear association between pain and polyneuropathy severity.
An analytical model for the interaction between two dissimilar piles in a finite soil layer
Authors: Liu Huan , Liu Qijian
Published: January 2021

An analytical method is developed for the interaction between two dissimilar piles subjected to vertical loadings in a finite soil layer with a rigid base. A fictitious soil column is assumed for the corresponding shaft and the moduli of the soil–pile rod are expressed as a Heaviside step function of the modulus. The vertical soil displacements and the shaft resistances are calculated as the combined contributions by the two dissimilar piles in terms of the respective local coordinate systems. The displacements and stresses in two different local coordinates are transferred from one to the other using Graf's addition theorem. The boundary value problem for the soil layer is solved using the method of separation of variables with a series of undetermined constants. The unknown constants can be determined by considering the compatibility along the interfaces of the two soil–pile rods and the surrounding soil. A parametric study is performed to investigate the effects of the properties of the soil–pile system on the interaction between the two piles. Numerical results show that, for the dissimilar piles in the stiff soil, the effects of the difference of the pile lengths on the interaction factor are negligible. Also, the interaction factor of the dissimilar piles in the soft soil depends heavily on the difference in lengths.
Deep learning magnetic resonance spectroscopy fingerprints of brain tumours using quantum mechanically synthesised data
Authors: Dikaios Nikolaos
Published: January 2021

Metabolic fingerprints are valuable biomarkers for diseases that are associated with metabolic disorders. 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a unique noninvasive diagnostic tool that can depict the metabolic fingerprint based solely on the proton signal of different molecules present in the tissue. However, its performance is severely hindered by low SNR, field inhomogeneities and overlapping spectra of metabolites, which affect the quantification of metabolites. Consequently, MRS is rarely included in routine clinical protocols and has not been proven in multi‐institutional trials. This work proposes an alternative approach, where instead of quantifying metabolites’ concentration, deep learning (DL) is used to model the complex nonlinear relationship between diseases and their spectroscopic metabolic fingerprint (pattern). DL requires large training datasets, acquired (ideally) with the same protocol/scanner, which are very rarely available. To overcome this limitation, a novel method is proposed that can quantum mechanically synthesise MRS data for any scanner/acquisition protocol. The proposed methodology is applied to the challenging clinical problem of differentiating metastasis from glioblastoma brain tumours on data acquired across multiple institutions. DL algorithms were trained on the augmented synthetic spectra and tested on two independent datasets acquired by different scanners, achieving a receiver operating characteristic area under the curve of up to 0.96 and 0.97, respectively.
An efficient eight‐node quadrilateral element for free vibration analysis of multilayer sandwich plates
Authors: Belarbi Mohamed‐Ouejdi , Zenkour Ashraf M. , Tati Abdelouahab , Salami Sattar Jedari , Khechai Abdelhak , Houari Mohammed‐Sid‐Ahmed
Published: January 2021

This article presents a free vibration analysis of laminated sandwich plates under various boundary conditions by using an efficient C0 eight‐node quadrilateral element. This new element is formulated based on the recently proposed layerwise model. The present model assumes an improved first‐order shear deformation theory for the face sheets while a higher‐order theory is assumed for the core maintaining an interlaminar displacement continuity. The advantage of this model relies on its number of variables is fixed, does not increase when increasing the number of lamina layers. This is a very important feature compared to the conventional layerwise models and facilitates significantly the engineering analysis. Indeed, the developed finite element is free of the shear locking phenomenon without requiring any shear correction factors. The governing equations of motion of the sandwich plate are derived via the classical Hamilton's principle. Several examples covering the various features such as the effect of modular ratio, aspect ratios, core‐to‐face thickness ratio, boundary conditions, skew angle, number of layers, geometry and ply orientations are solved for laminated composites and sandwich plates. The obtained results are compared with 3D, quasi‐3D, 2D analytical solutions, and those predicted by other advanced finite element models. The comparison studies indicate that the developed finite element model is of fast convergence to the reference and valid for both thick and thin laminated sandwich plates. Finally, it can be concluded that the present model is not only simple and accurate than the conventional ones, but also comparable with refined analytical solutions found in the literature.
A variation of distance domination in composite networks
Authors: Aytaç Vecdi , Şentürk Fatmana
Published: January 2021

Let V be the set of vertex of a graph G. The set S is a dominating set, being a subset of the set V, if every vertex in the set V is in the set S, or if it is neighbor of a vertex in the set S. The number of elements of the set S with the least number of elements is the dominating number of graph G. In this study, we have worked on a type of dominating called porous exponential domination. In this new parameter, while the distance between vertex s and vertex v grows this weight value reduces exponentially. If all vertices in S dominate all vertices of G a with a total weight of at least 1, the set S is named as a porous exponential dominating set of graph G. The cardinality of the set with the least number of elements of the obtained porous exponential domination sets is defined as the porous exponential domination number of graph G. In this paper we compute the porous exponential domination number of the R − graphs under corona and join product.
Genetic drivers and cells of origin in sarcomagenesis
Authors: Kannan Sarmishta , Lock Ian , Ozenberger Benjamin B , Jones Kevin B
Published: January 2021

Sarcoma comprises a group of malignancies that includes over 100 individual disease entities. Type‐specific genetic events initiate each tumor, occurring within a specific cellular context or circumstance. All sarcomas share a relationship with mesenchymal tissues of origin. Conceptual models for each specific route towards sarcomagenesis have developed over the years as clinical, cellular, and increasingly molecular observations have advanced hypotheses to be tested in the forward or reverse direction in experimental systems, often genetically engineered model organisms. This review considers the history of these discoveries in the context of technologies available at the time each was made and provides a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge of sarcoma genetics, including characteristic translocations, oncogene activation and loss of tumor suppressor gene events, and their putative cells of origin. Also considered are the interrelatedness of molecular clinical observations and genetic experiments in model systems to move this field of knowledge forward, as well as their implications for diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms for sarcoma. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A phase 1 study of entinostat in children and adolescents with recurrent or refractory solid tumors, including CNS tumors: Trial ADVL1513, Pediatric Early Phase‐Clinical Trial Network (PEP‐CTN)
Authors: Bukowinski Andrew , Chang Bill , Reid Joel M. , Liu Xiaowei , Minard Charles G. , Trepel Jane B. , Lee Min‐Jung , Fox Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Entinostat is an oral small molecule inhibitor of class I histone deacetylases (HDAC), which has not previously been evaluated in pediatrics. We conducted a phase I trial to determine the maximum tolerated dose/recommended phase 2 dose (MTD/RP2D), toxicity profile, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of entinostat in children with relapsed or refractory solid tumors including central nervous system (CNS) malignancies.

Methods

A rolling six dose escalation design evaluated two dose levels. Entinostat oral tablet formulation was administered once per week, four doses per 28‐day cycle. PK and PD studies were performed.

Results

Twenty‐one eligible patients’ median (range) age was 14 years (6‐20). Six subjects were treated at 3 mg/m2dose level and 15 were treated in 4 mg/m2dose level. The study included patients with CNS tumors (n = 12), sarcomas (n = 6), or other solid tumors (n = 3). Eight patients were not fully evaluable for toxicity due to progression of disease prior to receiving the required percentage of protocol therapy. No cycle one dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) was observed at either dose level. A three‐fold higher area under the curve (AUC) was achieved in our cohort compared to adults using a similar dosing schedule. The PD studies showed increase in acetylated lysine in peripheral blood leukocytes at both doses.

Conclusions

Entinostat was well tolerated with no DLT observed. All patients experienced progression within the first two cycles, except one patient with ependymoma with stable disease. Based on PK and PD, the R2PD in pediatric patients with solid tumors is 4 mg/m2orally administered once weekly.
Synergized high‐load bearing bone replacement composite from poly(lactic acid) reinforced with hydroxyapatite/glass fiber hybrid filler—Mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties
Authors: Akindoyo John O. , Beg M.D.H. , Ghazali S. , Heim H‐P. , Feldmann M. , Mariatti M.
Published: January 2021

High‐load bearing bone replacement composite was produced from poly(lactic acid) (PLA), surface modified hydroxyapatite (HA) and glass fiber (GF). Composition dependence and other salient properties of the composites were investigated with respect to the mechanical and dynamic mechanical performance of the composites. Incorporation of modified HA facilitates dispersion, improves bonding, as well as induce heterogeneous nucleation in the PLA matrix. On the other hand, GF greatly influenced the mechanical properties of the composite. The effectiveness coefficient, C, and adhesion factor, A, showed that incorporation of hybrid HA/GF filler helps to improve interfacial interaction due to increased bonding among the components, which produced remarkable enhancement in mechanical performance. For instance, tensile and flexural modulus of the PLA‐HA‐GF composite was raised by 86% and 82%, respectively. In addition, whereas incorporation of HA alone resulted in decreased impact strength (IS) of PLA, the IS of the PLA‐HA‐GF composite improved by 42%. Furthermore, damping of the ternary composite was reduced by 34% whereas the storage modulus is 1273 MPa higher than neat PLA. Therefore, hybrid HA/GF reinforced PLA offers alternative possibility for the fabrication of composites suitable for use in bone replacement and other orthopedic applications requiring high‐load bearing materials.
Waterborne epoxy sizing agent with hyperbranched structure to improve the interface performance of carbon fiber
Authors: Chen Yifan , Ding Lei , Chai Mingzhuo , Liu Li , Huang Yudong
Published: January 2021

The epoxy resin was modified by hyperbranched structure of hydroxyl terminated to obtain waterborne epoxy resin for using as the carbon fiber (CF) sizing agent. By mixing method of waterborne epoxy resin and water, the waterborne epoxy sizing agent can be fabricated directly. In the sizing process, free of volatile organic solvents ensure the safety of operators and environment. Moreover, the introduction of tertiary amine group in hyperbranched structure will promote the reaction between epoxy and hydroxyl groups, and thus enhance the bonding strength between CF and epoxy resin. Results showed that the introduction of sizing agent does not sacrifice the CF single fiber tensile strength. The structure of epoxy resin retained in sizing agent is beneficial to the good wettability between CF and epoxy resin according to surface energy results. Interfacial shear strength value increases from 51.75 to 72.34 MPa, and interlaminar shear strength value increases from 80.32 to 90.34 MPa. These mechanical properties show that hyperbranched epoxy resin sizing agent with a large amount of hydroxyl groups can effectively improving the interface adhesion between CF and epoxy resin, showing a broad application prospect in composite materials field.
Genome‐wide abnormalities in embryos: Origins and clinical consequences
Authors: Masset Heleen , Tšuiko Olga , Vermeesch Joris R.
Published: January 2021

Ploidy or genome‐wide chromosomal anomalies such as triploidy, diploid/triploid mixoploidy, chimerism, and genome‐wide uniparental disomy are the cause of molar pregnancies, embryonic lethality, and developmental disorders. While triploidy and genome‐wide uniparental disomy can be ascribed to fertilization or meiotic errors, the mechanisms causing mixoploidy and chimerism remain shrouded in mystery. Different models have been proposed, but all remain hypothetical and controversial, are deduced from the developmental persistent genomic constitutions present in the sample studied and lack direct evidence. New single‐cell genomic methodologies, such as single‐cell genome‐wide haplotyping, provide an extended view of the constitution of normal and abnormal embryos and have further pinpointed the existence of mixoploidy in cleavage‐stage embryos. Based on those recent findings, we suggest that genome‐wide anomalies, which persist in fetuses and patients, can for a large majority be explained by a noncanonical first zygotic cleavage event, during which maternal and paternal genomes in a single zygote, segregate to different blastomeres. This process, termed heterogoneic division, provides an overarching theoretical basis for the different presentations of mixoploidy and chimerism.
Temporal persistence of residual fetal cell‐free DNA from a deceased cotwin after selective fetal reduction in dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies
Authors: Chen Min , Su Fengxia , Wang Jiayan , Zhou Lijun , Liu Qiang , Chai Xianghua , Yuan Yuying , Cen Miaolan , Wu Yujing , Wang Yicong , Chen Fang , Zhang Yanyan , Chen Dunjin , Gao Ya
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To determine the temporal persistence of the residual cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) of the deceased cotwin in maternal circulation after selective fetal reduction and evaluate its long persistence in noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT).

Methods

Dichorionic diamniotic twins (N = 5) undergoing selective fetal reduction because of a trisomy were recruited. After informed consent, maternal blood was collected immediately before reduction and periodically after reduction until birth. The plasma cfDNA of each sample was sequenced and analyzed for fetal aneuploidy and fetal fractions.

Results

In all pregnancies, the fetal fraction of the cfDNA of the deceased fetus increased to peak at 7–9 weeks after fetal reduction, and subsequently decreased gradually to almost undetectable during the late third trimester. The NIPT T‐scores persistently reflected the detection of fetal trisomy up to 16 (median 9.5) weeks after fetal reduction.

Conclusions

Residual cfDNA from the deceased cotwin after selective reduction at 14–17 gestational weeks led to the persistent generation of false‐positive NIPT results for up to 16 weeks postdemise. Thus, providing NIPT for pregnancies with a cotwin demise in early second trimester is prone to misleading results and not recommended.
Nafion modified with simple bases and amino acid derivatives: Survey of physical properties and search for effective pervaporation membranes
Authors: Kludský Miroslav , Dendisová Marcela , Hrdlička Zdeněk , Jeništová Adéla , Hovorka Štěpán , Vopička Ondřej
Published: January 2021

Nafion, a solid perfluorinated polymeric sulfonic acid, reacts readily with bases and can thus be converted to a tremendous number of individual modifications. A survey of spectral, mechanical, thermal, and pervaporation characteristics of Nafion modified with simple inorganic and organic bases and with the derivatives of amino acids is thus reported. The spectral characteristics, thermal stability, and Tg changed pronouncedly for Nafion modified with the stronger bases, such as ammonium or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, while minor changes were observed for Nafion modified with the derivatives of amino acids. Permeability and selectivity of Nafion observed for the pervaporation of methanol–dimethyl carbonate and methanol–methyl acetate mixtures were mainly influenced by the modification with amines bearing hydroxyl and, most pronouncedly, sulfo groups. Importantly, the pervaporation membrane from Nafion modified with taurine appeared similarly permeable and hygroscopic but more methanol‐selective than that from pure Nafion.
High‐performance hybrid luminescent‐scattering solar concentrators based on a luminescent conjugated polymer
Authors: Li Yilin , Sun Yujian , Zhang Yongcao , Li Yuxin , Verduzco Rafael
Published: January 2021

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) are considered a promising building‐integrated photovoltaic technology. Over the past decade, numerous luminophores have been developed for LSCs. However, conjugated polymers are rarely reported for LSCs despite their wide application in other fields. In this study, we investigated a luminescent conjugated polymer, poly(naphthalene‐alt‐vinylene) (PNV), for LSCs. PNV exhibits an absorption wavelength (λabs) of 535 nm, an emission wavelength (λem) of 632 nm and a photoluminescence quantum yield of 0.40 in a poly(methyl methacrylate) matrix. When tested under outdoor direct sunlight (1000 W m−2 ± 10%) and indoor diffuse light‐emitting diode (LED) light (10 W m−2 ± 10%), the PNV‐based LSCs with a size of 12 in. (30.48 cm) exhibited power conversion efficiencies (ηLSC) of up to 2.9% and 3.6%, respectively, and concentration ratios (C) of up to 1.49 and 3.53, respectively. The external quantum efficiencies of the LSCs and the edge emission spectra of the luminescent waveguides were analyzed to reveal the impact of surface scattering treatment on device performance. Monte Carlo ray‐tracing simulation was employed to project the performance of large‐area LSCs with sizes of up to 120 in. (304.8 cm). For the LSCs under outdoor direct sunlight and indoor diffuse LED light, the projected ηLSC values were 1.29% and 0.88%, respectively, and the projected C values were 6.73 and 8.62, respectively. This study suggests that high‐performance LSCs can be achieved through luminescent conjugated polymers. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Registration of ‘CP 11‐1314’ sugarcane
Authors: McCord Per H. , Sandhu Hardev S. , Zhao Duli , Davidson R. Wayne , Gordon Vanessa S. , Islam Md. , Sood Sushma , Comstock Jack , Baltazar Miguel , Singh Maninder P.
Published: January 2021

‘CP 11‐1314’ (Reg. no. CV‐196, PI 693071) sugarcane, a complex hybrid of Saccharum spp., was developed through cooperative research conducted by the USDA‐ARS, the University of Florida, and the Florida Sugar Cane League, Inc.; it was released to Florida growers in June 2018 for cultivation on organic soils and further recommended in June 2019 for sand soils. This cultivar was derived from a polycross between CP 05‐1451 and a mixture of potential pollen donors. CP 11‐1314 was selected for release based on high cane yield and acceptable sucrose content. In addition, CP 11‐1314 displays good ratooning ability (particularly on muck soils), minimal sucrose decrease following freezing temperatures, and overall disease resistance. CP 11‐1314 is positive for the Bru1 locus, which confers resistance to brown rust, and is resistant or moderately resistant to all other sugarcane diseases of concern in Florida, including ratoon stunt disease, leaf scald, mosaic, and orange rust.
The extended Woodward UV rules formula for all possible structures
Authors: Kang Grace , Kang Yinan , Kang Fu‐An
Published: January 2021

A new accurate formula for the extended Woodward UV rules for all possible eight structures of α,β‐unsaturated ketones, λmax = 212.82 + 11.37Nsub + 4.79Nexo, was discovered by solving 56 ordered triples using Microsoft Excel's inverse matrix method, with an overall 99.9% accuracy between the observed and calculated maxima values. This discovered formula and these eight unique data points can be illustrated in the linear‐equation plane or visualized in the three‐dimensional graphics using computer software.
Functionalized polyimide based on mercaptoacetic acid locking imine reaction: Synthesis and coating application
Authors: Xu Jiangting , Cao Liaofeng , Wang Yilin , Zhu Dandan , Ye Qiang
Published: January 2021

To meet the high requirements for polyimide (PI) manufacturing process without sacrificing material performance, a new type fabrication method for PI is proposed here. Based on the classical Kapton system, functionalized precursor polyamide acid (MPAA) resin solution with high solid content, low viscosity and high relative molecular weight was obtained via mercaptoacetic acid locking imine (MALI) reaction, and a series of linear Mali‐Polyimide (MPI) films were prepared and their properties were well investigated. The results showed that MPIs have relatively excellent thermal stability (Td5%: 598 ~ 601°C), good heat resistance (Tg: 277 ~ 278 °C) and high adhesion strength. This work emphasizes the possibility and potential of MALI reaction in PI synthesis and is expected to be applied in coating and adhesive field.
Clinical and echocardiography predictors of response to inhaled nitric oxide in hypoxemic term and near‐term neonates
Authors: Bischoff Adrianne R. , Giesinger Regan E. , Neary Elaine , Weisz Dany E. , Belik Jaques , McNamara Patrick J.
Published: January 2021

Approximately 40% of hypoxemic term/near‐term neonates are nonresponders to inhaled nitric oxide (iNO). Phenotypic characterization of patients less likely to respond may improve diagnostic precision and therapeutic decisions. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of neonates born ≥35 weeks gestation with hypoxemia who received iNO in the first 72 h of life and classified them into responders and nonresponders according to changes in the fraction of inspired oxygen, saturations and/or arterial partial pressure of oxygen after 1 h of administration. Comprehensive targeted neonatal echocardiography (TnECHO) data were collected when performed up to 6 h prior or 24 h after iNO initiation. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, and binary logistic regression were used to compare the groups. There were 183 patients included (63% responders) and TnECHO was performed in 54 infants. The presence of lung disease, and particularly meconium aspiration syndrome (p = .004), was associated with nonresponse to iNO. Nonresponders were characterized by a higher need for rescue high‐frequency ventilation (p < .001), longer duration of mechanical ventilation (p < .001), and need for oxygen support (p = .003). Pulmonary hypertension documented on TnECHO was present in 96.3% of the patients but there was no difference in frequency or severity of pulmonary hypertension, or rates of low cardiac output between the groups. Moderate‐to‐severe right ventricular systolic dysfunction (p > .05) and lower left ventricular strain (p < .05) were more likely in the nonresponder group. In summary, response to iNO is influenced by lung disease, choice of ventilation strategy, and perhaps underlying cardiovascular physiology. Prospective pre‐ and post‐iNO echocardiography data may provide novel physiologic insights.
Effect of expiratory muscle training on peak cough flow in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Emirza Cigdem , Aslan Goksen Kuran , Kilinc Ayse Ayzit , Cokugras Haluk
Published: January 2021

Background

Cough is an important defense and airway clearance mechanism for removing thick and viscous secretions in cystic fibrosis (CF). The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of expiratory muscle training (EMT) on peak cough flow (PCF) and secondly on respiratory muscle functions, functional exercise capacity, and quality of life (QoL) in CF.

Methods

Thirty patients were randomized as training and sham groups. Both groups were trained with the EMT protocol, which involved twice per day for at least 5 days per week for 6 weeks. The training intensity in the training group was 30% of the maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). In the sham group, it remained at the lowest pressure (5 cmH2O). The primary outcome was PCF. The secondary outcomes were MEP, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), spirometric measures, six‐minute walking distance (6MWD), and QoL (Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire‐Revised).

Results

Twenty‐eight patients completed the study. Changes in PCF (p = .041) and MEP (p = .003) were higher in the training group than the sham group. Also, treatment burden (p = .008), digestive symptoms (p = .019), and vitality (p = .042) in QoL were more improved in the training group. MIP (p = .028) and 6MWD (p = .035) changed significantly only in the training group. Spirometric measurements did not change (p > .05).

Conclusions

The results of the study show that EMT could improve PCF, MEP, treatment burden, digestive symptoms, and vitality domains of QoL in patients with CF. Moreover, MIP and functional exercise capacity improved in the training group with EMT.
Monitoring systems for resistance to plant protection products across the world: Between redundancy and complementarity
Authors:   R4P network
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Monitoring resistance to plant protection products (PPPs) is crucial for understanding the evolution of resistances in bioagressors, thereby allowing scientists to design sound bioagressor management strategies. Globally, resistance monitoring is implemented by a wide range of actors that fall into three distinct categories: academic, governmental, and private. The purpose of this study was to investigate worldwide diversity in PPP resistance monitoring systems and to shed light on their different facets.

RESULTS

A large survey involving 162 experts from 48 countries made it possible to identify and analyze 250 resistance monitoring systems. Through an in‐depth analysis, the features of the different monitoring systems were identified. The main factor differentiating monitoring systems was essentially the capabilities (funding, manpower, technology, etc.) of the actors involved in each system. In most countries, and especially in those with a high Human Development Index, academic, governmental, and private monitoring systems coexist. Overall, systems focus far more on monitoring established resistances than on the detection of emerging resistances. Governmental and private resistance monitoring systems generally have considerable capacities to generate data, whereas academic resistance monitoring systems are more specialized. Governmental actors federate and enroll a wider variety of stakeholders.

CONCLUSION

The results show functional complementarities between the coexisting actors in countries where they coexist. We suggest PPP resistance monitoring might be enhanced if the different actors focus more on detecting emerging resistances (and associated benefits) and increase collaborative and collective efforts and transparency.

© 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Medium‐term feasibility of the management of the invasive crayfish Procambarus clarkii with the sterile males release technique
Authors: Manfrin Chiara , Giglio Anita , Pallavicini Lorenzo , Zampa Lia , Vecchiet Lorenzo , Caputi Andrea , Chiandetti Cinzia , Beorchia Aulo , Vidimari Rossella , Giulianini Piero G
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

The sterile male release technique (SMRT) is a useful method applied for controlling invasive and pest species. However, the use of X‐rays can lead to negative effects on the survival and health conditions of sterilized males.

RESULTS

This study was set up to evaluate the functional integrity of physiological, morphological and behavioural responses in males of the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852), exposed to a dose of 40 Gy of ionizing radiation. Concerning physiological responses, the results showed that the irradiation dose, tested at 5, 12, 28, 35, 65, 99, 132 and 193 days after treatment, has no effects on glycaemic and plasmatic total protein levels measured as biomarkers for general stress indexes. Nevertheless, the significant reduction of circulating haemocytes and the basal levels of phenoloxidase (PO) activities recorded in 40‐Gy irradiated crayfishes indicate that the exposure shrinks their capability to mount a rapid nonspecific response, and higher levels of plasmatic total PO activity indicate the ability to compensate and maintain an inducible response. Histological analyses performed at the end of the experiment showed no morphological damage in the testicular acini of irradiated males. Moreover, behavioural responses to two different water stimuli (vaporization and jet), measured at 15 and 45 days after the irradiation, were not modified in exposed crayfishes compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the validity of SMRT on young males when the breeding season is less than 4 months but exposure to X‐ray should be repeated at mid‐breeding season when temperatures allow a longer breeding season. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetics modeling to investigate formulation factors influencing the generic substitution of dabigatran etexilate
Authors: Farhan Nashid , Cristofoletti Rodrigo , Basu Sumit , Kim Sarah , Lingineni Karthik , Jiang Sibo , Brown Joshua D. , Fang Lanyan (Lucy) , Lesko Lawrence J. , Schmidt Stephan
Published: January 2021

The exposure‐response relationship of direct acting oral anti‐coagulants (DOACs) for bleeding risk is steep relative to ischemic stroke reduction. As a result, small changes in exposure may lead to bleeding events. The overall goal of this project was to determine the effect of critical formulation parameters on the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and thus safety and efficacy of generic DOACs. In this first installment of our overall finding, we developed and verified a physiologically‐based PK (PBPK) model for dabigatran etexilate (DABE) and its metabolites. The model was developed following a middle out approach leveraging available in vitro and in vivo data. External validity of the model was confirmed by overlapping predicted and observed PK profiles for DABE as well as free and total dabigatran for a dataset not used during model development. The verified model was applied to interrogate the impact of modulating the microenvironment pH on DABE systemic exposure. The PBPK exploratory analyses highlighted the high sensitivity of DABE exposure to supersaturation ratio and precipitation kinetics.
Reliability assessment for failure‐dependent and uncertain systems: A Bayesian network based on copula method and probability‐box
Authors: Song Yufei , Mi Jinhua , Cheng Yuhua , Bai Libing , Chen Kai
Published: January 2021

Managing failure dependence of complex systems with hybrid uncertainty is one of the hot problems in reliability assessment. Epistemic uncertainty is attributed to complex working environment, system structure, human factors, imperfect knowledge, etc. Probability‐box has powerful characteristics for uncertainty analysis and can be effectively adopted to represent epistemic uncertainty. However, arithmetic rules on probability‐box structures are mostly used among structures representing independent random variables. In most practical engineering applications, failure dependence is always introduced in system reliability analysis. Therefore, this paper proposes a developed Bayesian network combining copula method with probability‐box for system reliability assessment. There are four main steps involved in the reliability computation process: marginal distribution identification and estimation, copula function selection and parameter estimation, reliability analysis of components with correlations and Bayesian forward analysis. The benefits derived from the proposed approach are used to overcome the computational limitations of n‐dimensional integral operation, and the advantages of useful properties of copula function in reliability analysis of systems with correlations are adopted. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed Bayesian network, the proposed method is applied to a real large piston compressor.
Exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial maturation including angiogenesis and decidualization
Authors: Kida Naoko , Nishigaki Akemi , Kakita‐Kobayashi Maiko , Tsubokura Hiroaki , Hashimoto Yoshiko , Yoshida Aya , Hisamatsu Yoji , Tsuzuki‐Nakao Tomoko , Murata Hiromi , Okada Hidetaka
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To elucidate the effects of cigarette smoking on human endometrial maturation for reproductive function, the authors examined the in vitro effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on angiogenesis and decidualization in primary human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs).

Methods

Endometrial stromal cells were cultured with CSE and/or estradiol‐17β (E2) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). The mRNA, protein levels, and protein secretion of the angiogenic factors and decidual specific factors were assessed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Decidualization was also monitored by the changes in cellular morphology.

Results

Endometrial stromal cell proliferation substantially decreased after dose‐dependent treatments with CSE at concentrations above 1%, whereas cell death was induced at treatment concentrations above 1% CSE. Treatments above 0.025% CSE led to increased vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA through hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α accumulation. CSE concentrations at 0.01% and 0.025% increased the prolactin expression levels after treatment with E2 and MPA, whereas 0.1% and 0.25% CSE concentrations suppressed prolactin. Similar tendencies were observed in cellular morphology and other decidual specific factors.

Conclusion

These results suggest that exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial appropriate maturation including the processes of angiogenesis and decidualization in the reproductive system.
Analysis of equivalent‐input‐disturbance‐based control systems and a coordinated design algorithm for uncertain systems
Authors: Yu Pan , Liu Kang‐Zhi , Liu Xudong , Li Xiaoli , Wu Min , She Jinhua
Published: January 2021

The control method based on the equivalent‐input‐disturbance (EID) estimator and the Luenberger state observer has received much attention in recent years. However, the property of EID‐based control systems is still not well investigated. A number of design procedures were proposed but lacked sufficient theoretic justification. In this article, the two‐degree‐of‐freedom nature of an EID‐based control system is revealed. Specifically, the reference‐tracking is determined by an outer loop, while the disturbance rejection and robustness is determined by an inner loop consisting of the EID estimator and state observer. The bandwidth constraints on the inner loop are analyzed for plants having zeros or poles in the open right‐half plane by using the Bode and the Poisson integral formulas. These analyses provide a theoretic justification for conventional design procedures. Further, a coordinated design algorithm is provided for the EID‐based uncertain control systems. In addition, a comprehensive comparison of the EID‐based and the disturbance observer (DOB) based control systems is conducted in the system design aspect. Lastly, comparative studies of the EID‐based and DOB‐based control methods are given for various types of plants to validate the developed design algorithm.
Mars curiosity rover mobility trends during the first 7 years
Authors: Rankin Arturo , Maimone Mark , Biesiadecki Jeffrey , Patel Nikunj , Levine Dan , Toupet Olivier
Published: January 2021

NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Curiosity rover landed on Mars on August 6, 2012. In the 7 years between landing and August 6, 2019 (sol 2488), Curiosity has driven 21,318.5 m over a variety of terrain types and slopes, employing multiple drive modes with varying amounts of onboard autonomy. Curiosity's drive distances each sol have ranged from its shortest drive of 2.6 cm to its longest drive of 142.5 m, with an average drive distance of 28.9 m. Real‐time human intervention is not possible during Curiosity's drives due to the latency in uplinking commands and downlinking telemetry. Instead, the operations team relies on Curiosity's fault protection, autonomous navigation, and visual odometry software to keep the rover safe during drives. During its first 7 years on Mars, Curiosity has attempted 738 drives. While 622 drives ran to completion, 116 drives were prevented or stopped early by Curiosity's fault protection software. The primary risks to mobility success have been wheel damage, wheel entrapment, progressive wheel sinkage, and the potential for hardware or cable failures that result in an inability to command one or more steer or drive actuators. In this paper, we describe Curiosity's mobility subsystem, mobility trends over the first 21.3 km of the mission, operational aspects of mobility fault protection, risks to continued mobility success, and risk mitigation strategies.
Three‐level quantum satellite communication framework and its applications
Authors: Zhu Dan , Zhu Hongfeng , Wang Zixi , Zhang Yuanle
Published: January 2021

Quantum cryptography uses quantum natures to realize unconditional security without computational hard problems, which can achieve lots of significant applications of secure communication, multiparty secure computation, E‐commerce, and so on. Even it can get the free‐space optical communication with quantum channel. In this paper, we firstly proposed a three‐level quantum satellite communication framework that covers dozens of common solutions. Among the solutions, we select and give a quantum semi‐honest and semi‐quantum mutual authenticated key agreement scheme with three‐particle entangled states, which can provide secure service for cross‐realm traditional clients with quantum satellite and super nodes. More important, by the quantum satellite's helping, the quantum satellite and the two super nodes can authenticate each other, but the three nodes cannot get any information of the session key between the cross‐realm clients. The proposed scheme has the properties of completeness, information theoretic security, nonrepudiation, and unforgeability. Its information‐theoretic security is ensured by quantum indistinguishability mechanics. On the other hand, our scheme is more efficient than the similar schemes.
Photoacoustic Imaging and Photothermal Therapy of Semiconducting Polymer Nanoparticles: Signal Amplification and Second Near‐Infrared Construction
Authors: Zhen Xu , Pu Kanyi , Jiang Xiqun
Published: January 2021

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT) have attracted extensive attention in disease diagnosis and treatment. Although many exogenous contrast agents have been developed for PA imaging and PTT, the design guidelines to amplify their imaging and therapy performances remain challenging and are highly demanded. Semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) composed of polymers with π‐electron delocalized backbones can be designed to amplify their PA imaging and PTT performance, because of their clear structure–property relation and versatility in modifying their molecular structures to tune their photophysical properties. This review summarizes the recent advances in the photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy applications of semiconducting polymer nanoparticles with a focus on signal amplification and second near‐infrared (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) construction. The strategies such as structure–property screening, fluorescence quenching, accelerated heat dissipation, and size‐dependent heat dissipation are first discussed to amplify the PA brightness of SPNs for in vivo PA. The molecular approaches to shifting the absorption of SPNs for NIR‐II PA imaging and PTT are then introduced so as to improve the tissue penetration depth for diagnosis and therapy. At last, current challenges and perspectives of SPNs in the field of imaging and therapy are discussed.