bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining the dose‐volume criteria for laryngeal sparing in locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer utilizing split‐field IMRT, whole‐field IMRT and VMAT
Authors: Wilke Christopher , Takiar Vinita , Wang He , Moreno Amy C. , Tung Shih‐Ming Samuel , Quinlan‐Davidson Sean R. , Garden Adam S. , Rosenthal David I. , Fuller Clifton D. , Gunn Gary B. , Reddy Jay P. , Morrison William H. , Wang Congjun , Zhao George , Hutcheson Katherine A. , Phan Jack
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To determine the optimal dose‐volume constraint for laryngeal sparing using three commonly employed intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) approaches in patients with oropharyngeal cancer treated to the bilateral neck.

Materials and methods

Thirty patients with stage II‐IVA oropharynx cancers received definitive radiotherapy with split‐field IMRT (SF‐IMRT) to the bilateral neck between 2008 and 2013. Each case was re‐planned using whole‐field IMRT (WF‐IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and plan quality metrics and dose to laryngeal structures was evaluated. Two larynx volumes were defined and compared on the current study: the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) larynx as defined per the RTOG 1016 protocol and the MDACC larynx defined as the components of the larynx bounded by the superior and inferior extent of the thyroid cartilage.

Results

Target coverage, conformity, and heterogeneity indices were similar in all techniques. The RTOG larynx mean dose was lower with WF‐IMRT than SF‐IMRT (22.1 vs 25.8 Gy; P < 0.01). The MDACC larynx mean dose was 17.5 Gy ± 5.4 Gy with no differences between the 3 techniques. WF‐IMRT and VMAT plans were associated with lower mean doses to the supraglottic larynx (42.1 vs 41.2 vs 54.8 Gy; P < 0.01) and esophagus (18.1 vs 18.2 vs 36 Gy; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Modern whole field techniques can provide effective laryngeal sparing in patients receiving radiotherapy to the bilateral neck for advanced oropharyngeal cancers.

We evaluated laryngeal dose in patients with locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer treated to the bilateral neck using split‐field IMRT (SF‐IMRT), whole‐field IMRT (WF‐IMRT) and volumetric arc therapy (VMAT). All three techniques provided good sparing of laryngeal structures and were able to achieve a mean larynx dose < 33 Gy. There were no significant differences in dose to target structures or non‐laryngeal organs at risk among techniques.
Association of Medication Access Difficulty and COVID‐19–Related Distress With Disease Flares in Rheumatology Patients During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Maldonado Dalynah , Tu Emilee , Mahmood Shereen N. , Wahezi Dawn M. , Darapaneni Ruchika , Sima Niloofar , Curiel‐Duran Laura , Pattison Lindsay M. , Gabbay Vilma , Bauman Laurie J. , Broder Anna , Rubinstein Tamar B.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Due to concerns of infection and medication disruptions during the COVID‐19 pandemic, rheumatology patients at the pandemic epicenter were at risk of distress and poor health outcomes. We sought to investigate medication disruptions and COVID‐19–related distress in the Bronx, New York shortly after the peak of the pandemic and determine whether factors related to the pandemic were associated with flares, disease activity, and overall health.

Methods

In the month following the epidemic peak, we surveyed adult patients and parents of pediatric patients from rheumatology clinics in the Bronx regarding medication access, medication interruptions, COVID‐19 infection, COVID‐19 hospitalization, and COVID‐19–related distress. We examined which factors were associated with patient‐reported flares, disease activity, and overall health scores in regression models accounting for sociodemographic characteristics and rheumatologic disease type.

Results

Of the 1,692 patients and parents of pediatric patients that were contacted, 361 (21%) responded; 16% reported medication access difficulty, 14% reported medication interruptions, and 41% reported experiencing flare(s). In a multivariable logistic regression model, medication access difficulty was associated with increased odds of flare (odds ratio [OR] 4.0 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.5, 10.4]; P = 0.005), as was high COVID‐19–related distress (OR 2.4 [95% CI 1.2, 4.6]; P = 0.01). In multivariable linear regression models, medication access difficulty and high COVID‐19–related distress were associated with worse disease activity scores, and high COVID‐19–related distress was associated with worse health scores.

Conclusion

Medication access difficulties and flares were common among rheumatology patients from the Bronx, New York in the month following the peak of the epidemic. Medication access difficulty and COVID‐19–related distress were highly associated with flare and disease activity. COVID‐19–related distress was associated with overall health scores.
Leveraging Free Volume Manipulation to Improve the Membrane Separation Performance of Amine‐Functionalized PIM‐1
Authors: Mizrahi Rodriguez Katherine , Lin Sharon , Wu Albert X. , Han Gang , Teesdale Justin J. , Doherty Cara M. , Smith Zachary P.
Published: December 2020

Gas‐separation polymer membranes display a characteristic permeability–selectivity trade‐off that has limited their industrial use. The most comprehensive approach to improving performance is to devise strategies that simultaneously increase fractional free volume, narrow free volume distribution, and enhance sorption selectivity, but generalizable methods for such approaches are exceedingly rare. Here, we present an in situ crosslinking and solid‐state deprotection method to access previously inaccessible sorption and diffusion characteristics in amine‐functionalized polymers of intrinsic microporosity. Free volume element (FVE) size can be increased while preserving a narrow FVE distribution, enabling below‐upper bound polymers to surpass the H2/N2, H2/CH4, and O2/N2 upper bounds and improving CO2‐based selectivities by 200 %. This approach can transform polymers into chemical analogues with improved performance, thereby overcoming traditional permeability–selectivity trade‐offs.
Is Treatment in Patients With Suspected Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis Effective? Six‐Month Results of a Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Rusman Tamara , van der Weijden Mignon A. C. , Nurmohamed Michael T. , Landewé Robert B. M. , de Winter Janneke J. H. , Boden Bouke J. H. , Bet Pierre M. , van der Bijl Carmella M. A. , van der Laken Conny , van der Horst‐Bruinsma Irene E.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of 16‐week treatment with etanercept (ETN) in patients with suspected nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Methods

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor–naive patients with inflammatory back pain with at least 2 SpA features and high disease activity (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index score ≥4), without the requirement of a positive finding on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the sacroiliac (SI) joint and/or elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP) level, were randomized (1:1) to receive ETN (n = 40) or placebo (n = 40) for 16 weeks and subsequently were followed up for a further 8 weeks (to 24 weeks from baseline) without study medication. The primary end point was the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society 20 (ASAS20) response at 16 weeks. Secondary end points included the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) and changes in disease parameters, including the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), CRP level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada index scores (MRI of the SI joint), after 16 and 24 weeks.

Results

Patient characteristics at baseline were comparable between the ETN and placebo groups. At 16 weeks, there was no significant difference in the percentage of patients exhibiting ASAS20 response between the ETN group (6 patients [16.7%]) and the placebo group (4 patients [11.1%]) (relative risk 0.7 [95% confidence interval 0.2–2.2], P = 0.5). Only the ESR showed more improvement in the ETN group compared to the placebo group at 16 weeks (decreases of 2.2 mm/hour and 1.4 mm/hour, respectively), but the difference did not reach statistical significance. Between 16 and 24 weeks, without study medication, the BASMI, CRP level, and ESR had worsened to a greater extent in the ETN group compared to the placebo group, with the difference being significant for the CRP level.

Conclusion

This study shows that in patients with suspected nonradiographic axial SpA with high disease activity but without the requirement of a positive finding on SI joint MRI and/or elevated CRP level, treatment with ETN is not effective.
The Type II Anti‐CD20 Antibody Obinutuzumab (GA101) Is More Effective Than Rituximab at Depleting B Cells and Treating Disease in a Murine Lupus Model
Authors: Marinov Anthony D. , Wang Haowei , Bastacky Sheldon I. , van Puijenbroek Erwin , Schindler Thomas , Speziale Dario , Perro Mario , Klein Christian , Nickerson Kevin M. , Shlomchik Mark J.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Depleting pathogenic B cells could treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, depleting B cells in an inflammatory setting such as lupus is difficult. This study was undertaken to investigate whether a type II anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody (mAb) with a different mechanism of action, obinutuzumab (GA101), is more effective than a type I anti‐CD20 mAb, rituximab (RTX), in B cell depletion in lupus, and whether efficient B cell depletion results in amelioration of disease.

Methods

We treated lupus‐prone MRL/lpr mice expressing human CD20 on B cells (hCD20 MRL/lpr mice) with either RTX or GA101 and measured B cell depletion under various conditions, as well as multiple clinical end points.

Results

A single dose of GA101 was markedly more effective than RTX in depleting B cells in diseased MRL/lpr mice (P < 0.05). RTX overcame resistance to B cell depletion in diseased MRL/lpr mice with continuous treatments. GA101 was more effective in treating hCD20 MRL/lpr mice with early disease, as GA101‐treated mice had reduced glomerulonephritis (P < 0.05), lower anti‐RNA autoantibody titers (P < 0.05), and fewer activated CD4+ T cells (P < 0.0001) compared to RTX‐treated mice. GA101 also treated advanced disease, and continual treatment prolonged survival. Using variants of GA101, we also elucidated B cell depletion mechanisms in vivo in mice with lupus.

Conclusion

Albeit both anti‐CD20 antibodies ameliorated early disease, GA101 was more effective than RTX in important parameters, such as glomerulonephritis score. GA101 proved beneficial in an advanced disease model, where it prolonged survival. These data support clinical testing of GA101 in SLE and lupus nephritis.
Reading Goals and Executive Function in Autism: An Eye‐Tracking Study
Authors: Micai Martina , Vulchanova Mila , Saldaña David
Published: December 2020

The sources of reading comprehension difficulties in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are still open to discussion. We explored their ability to adapt reading strategies to different reading goals using eye‐tracking technology. A group of participants with ASD, and intelligence‐, receptive oral language‐ and reading skills‐matched control peers, read three stories under three different reading goals conditions: read for entertainment; read for study; and read fast and search information for a previously presented question. Each text required participants to answer comprehension questions. The ASD group was less accurate in question answering. The control group was faster in reading questions, displayed more fixations on the text, and reported to be more confident in question answering during reading for study compared to reading for entertainment. These differences between reading goals were not observed in the ASD group. The control group adopted and was aware of using different reading strategies according to different reading goals. In contrast, the ASD group did not change their reading behavior and strategies between entertainment and study reading goal condition, showing less of a tendency to adopt deep‐level processing strategies when necessary. Planning, as measured by Tower of Hanoi, was the only executive task that predicted individual differences in text reading time across conditions. Participants with better planning ability were also able to adapt their reading behavior to different reading instructions. Difficulties in adjusting the reading behavior according to the task, evaluating own performance and planning may be partly involved in reading comprehension problems in ASD.

Lay abstract

The control group read questions faster, reported to be more confident in question answering during reading for study compared to reading for entertainment, and were aware of using different reading strategies according to different reading goals. In contrast, the autistic group did not change their reading behavior and strategies according to the reading goal. Difficulties in adjusting the reading behavior according to the task, in evaluating own performance and in planning may be partly involved in reading comprehension problems in autism. Autism Res 2021, 14: 1007–1024. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, LLC
Environmental management practices and financial performance using data envelopment analysis in Japan: The mediating role of environmental performance
Authors: Aslam Shoaib , Elmagrhi Mohamed H. , Rehman Ramiz Ur , Ntim Collins G.
Published: December 2020

This study investigates the relationship between environmental management practices (EMPs) and financial performance (FP) and consequently ascertains whether environmental performance (EP) can mediate the EMPs–FP nexus. Distinctly using data envelopment analysis and generalised method of moments techniques to analyse a comprehensive dataset of Nikkei 225 listed firms from 2007 to 2018 (1920 firm‐year observations), our findings first suggest that EMPs have a positive effect on FP. Second, the desired EP can be achieved through the adoption of comprehensive EMPs. Third, improved EP has a substantial impact on shaping the EMPs' effect on FP. These findings are consistent with the predictions of resource‐based view and institutional theories. The results are robust to controlling for different types of alternative measures and endogeneities. The findings have important implications for academics, investors, managers, policymakers and regulators.
Self‐compassion for youth in small city centres: A school‐based pilot project
Authors: Henson Alisha , Ruglis Jessica , Sinacore Ada , Fitzpatrick Marilyn , Lanteigne Dianna
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the benefits of a self‐compassion intervention that was delivered in school to grade nine youth during their transition to high school in a small city centre in Ontario, Canada. All participants were assigned female at birth. Self‐compassion (SC) was identified as an important intervention for this population based on a community‐based participatory research (CBPR) process that included youth living with mental health challenges, mental health practitioners, gatekeepers and academics. The CBPR process helped with problem identification and the modification of a self‐compassion intervention for use in school for youth. The modified SC programme was delivered in two physical education classes, using a 2 × 2 crossover design (i.e. intervention or school as usual). Self‐report measures focused on increasing mental health (e.g. well‐being, values, self‐compassion) and decreasing mental illness (e.g. depression, anxiety) were collected at baseline and pre–post intervention. Data analysed via ANCOVAs and non‐parametric tests indicate no statistically significant results. At baseline, most students had relatively average scores for mental health and mental illness; therefore, floor and ceiling effects may have impacted measurable change. In this relatively healthy group, the benefits of the SC programme may be the capacity to continue to accept and support oneself in facing challenges, as is the overall goal of self‐compassion. Future research may focus on using self‐compassion interventions with youth in clinical settings or a longitudinal analysis with a comparison group.
Multi C−H Functionalization Reactions of Carbazole Heterocycles via Gold‐Catalyzed Carbene Transfer Reactions
Authors: Jana Sripati , Empel Claire , Nguyen Thanh Vinh , Koenigs Rene M.
Published: December 2020

Herein we describe a multiple C−H functionalization reaction of carbazole heterocycles with diazoalkanes. We show that gold catalysts play a distinct role in enabling a multiple C−H functionalization reaction to introduce up to six carbene fragments onto molecules containing multiple carbazole units or to link multiple carbazole units into a single molecule. A one‐pot stepwise approach enables the introduction of two different carbene fragments to allow orthogonal deprotection and straightforward derivatization.
Stereo‐ and Enantioselective Synthesis of Propionate‐Derived Trisubstituted Alkene Motifs
Authors: Miura Tomoya , Oku Naoki , Shiratori Yota , Nagata Yuuya , Murakami Masahiro
Published: December 2020

We report a new method for constructing propionate‐derived trisubstituted alkene motifs in a stereoselective manner. 1‐Substituted 1,1‐di(pinacolatoboryl)‐(E)‐alk‐2‐enes are generated in situ from 1‐substituted 1,1‐di(pinacolatoboryl)alk‐3‐enes through ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed double‐bond transposition. These species undergo a chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed allylation reaction of aldehydes to produce the E isomers of anti‐homoallylic alcohols. On the other hand, the corresponding Z isomers of anti‐homoallylic alcohols are obtained when a dimeric palladium(I) complex is employed as the catalyst for this double‐bond transposition. Thus, both E and Z isomers can be synthesized from the same starting materials. A B−C(sp2) bond remaining with the allylation product undergoes the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction to furnish a propionate‐derived trisubstituted alkene motif in a stereo‐defined form. The present method to construct the motifs with (E)‐ and (Z)‐alkenes are successfully applied to the syntheses of (+)‐isotrichostatic acid, (−)‐isotrichostatin RK, and (+)‐trichostatic acid, respectively.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Fosaprepitant Dimeglumine in Healthy Chinese Volunteers: Bioequivalence Study
Authors: Lu Kang , Lin Sisi , Wang Yannan , Hao Rui , Fang Lu , Zhu Jingjing , Zhao Di , Yu Jin , Tong Shengjia , Wu Yi , Si Yongkai , Ye Tiantian , Yang Qigang , Wang Ying
Published: December 2020

Fosaprepitant dimeglumine (FD) is a precursor of aprepitant. FD can be metabolized into aprepitant. This randomized, single‐center, open, 2‐cycle, single‐dose, crossover bioequivalence study compared the pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety of intravenously FD of test and reference products in healthy volunteers (HVs). HVs were assigned to the test group or reference group randomly and given FD intravenously. The plasma concentration of FD and aprepitant was measured using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. PK parameters were ascertained based on a noncompartmental model. Data for 29 HVs were obtained. The geometric mean and 90% confidence intervals of maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to time of last measurable plasma concentration (AUC0‐t), and area from the last datum point to time infinity (AUC0‐∞) of test and reference groups were 101.69% (95.06%, 108.77%), 103.52% (99.15%, 108.09%), and 105.58% (99.51%, 112.01%), respectively. These 3 parameters were within the acceptance range of 80.0% to 125.00%, and the test product was bioequivalent to the reference product. The coefficient of variation (CV) of Cmax, AUC0‐t, and AUC0‐∞ was 15.14%, 9.67%, and 11.89%, respectively. Intravenously administered FD provided by 2 sponsors achieved bioequivalence. FD values from test and reference products were bioequivalent. All adverse events were mild and serious adverse events absent in HVs. This study indicated that FD may provide a safer alternative to aprepitant for chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting.
Yoga practice among ethnically/racially diverse emerging adults: Associations with body image, mindful and disordered eating, and muscle‐enhancing behaviors
Authors: Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne , Wall Melanie M. , Levine Alina , Barr‐Anderson Daheia J. , Eisenberg Marla E. , Larson Nicole
Published: December 2020

Background

This study explores cross‐sectional associations between yoga and body image, mindful eating, disordered eating, and muscle‐enhancing behaviors among a population‐based sample of ethnically/racially diverse emerging adults.

Method

An ethnically/racially diverse population‐based sample of 1,568 emerging adults (18–26 years) completed surveys as part of EAT 2010–2018 (Eating and Activity over Time). Models were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and body mass index (BMI).

Results

Practicing yoga at least 30 min/week was reported by 12.7% (n = 210) of the sample. Yoga practitioners had higher levels of mindful eating than those not practicing yoga. Although effect sizes were small, yoga practitioners were more likely than non‐yoga practitioners to use steroids (3.8 vs. 0.7%, p < .001, h = 0.22) or protein powder/shakes (35.1 vs. 25.3%, p < .010, h = 0.21) to increase their muscle size/tone. Body satisfaction, unhealthy weight control behaviors, and binge eating tended to be similar among yoga practitioners and non‐yoga practitioners. There was a significant interaction between BMI and yoga in predicting body satisfaction with a trend toward a positive impact among yoga practitioners at higher BMI values. Interactions between yoga practice and all body image attitudes and behaviors across gender and ethnicity/race were not statistically significant.

Discussion

Young people from diverse ethnic/racial backgrounds who practice yoga are more likely to engage in mindful eating but have equal or elevated levels of unhealthy body image attitudes and behaviors as compared to non‐yoga practitioners. Further research should explore how yoga is best taught and practiced to ensure that it is beneficial for body image and related behaviors.
Opportunistic colonizers in the Kallankurichchi Formation, Cauvery Basin, South India: Implications on Maastrichtian environmental stress
Authors: Muthuvairavasamy Ramkumar , Siddiqui Numair Ahmed , Rai Jyotsana , Desai Bhawanisingh G. , Menier David
Published: December 2020

Serpulids are marine filter‐feeding annelids that live in calcareous tubes. Their distribution, colonization, and proliferation are dependent on physical environmental variables, including energy conditions. This article documents the occurrences of serpulid colonies over opportunistic colonizing trace fossil of Ophiomorpha‐rich sedimentary unit in the Lower Maastrichtian Kallankurichchi Formation of the Ariyalur Group, Cauvery Basin, South India and links them with ecosystem dynamics, as a function of changes in eustatic and other relative sea‐level changes and attendant variations in environmental parameters. Present observations indicate episodic changes in faunal composition, diversity, and population, across the boundary between Kattupiringiyam Inoceramus limestone Member and Tancem biostromal Member of the Kallankurichchi Formation. The boundary marked a significant change from low‐moderate energy, to high‐energy waters, thus replacing a filter‐feeding community by an opportunistic community. The opportunistic colonizers/trace makers of Ophiomorpha irregulaire occupied the ecospaces vacated by the sea‐level changes. Systematic studies of faunal association across the boundary indicate a sudden appearance of significant populations of Serpula colonies above the surface (i.e., after the changes in ecosystem conditions) and enhancement of intensity of sponge boring in benthic organisms. This means that the changes brought about by the newer environmental conditions were supportive for opportunistic colonizers followed by parasitic and commensalic organisms. Significant reduction of Gryphaea population that was increasingly replaced by Alectryonia, Exogyra, and Terebratula is also documented. These changes, collectively, indicate prevalent environmental stress due to relative sea‐level variations and attendant ecological conditions, to which, the opportunistic colonizers and parasitic organisms responded positively, while the native organisms dwindled in population and were forced to parasitic invasions.
Predicting visual working memory with multimodal magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Xiao Yu , Lin Ying , Ma Junji , Qian Jiehui , Ke Zijun , Li Liangfang , Yi Yangyang , Zhang Jinbo ,   Cam‐CAN, Dai Zhengjia
Published: December 2020

The indispensability of visual working memory (VWM) in human daily life suggests its importance in higher cognitive functions and neurological diseases. However, despite the extensive research efforts, most findings on the neural basis of VWM are limited to a unimodal context (either structure or function) and have low generalization. To address the above issues, this study proposed the usage of multimodal neuroimaging in combination with machine learning to reveal the neural mechanism of VWM across a large cohort (N = 547). Specifically, multimodal magnetic resonance imaging features extracted from voxel‐wise amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations, gray matter volume, and fractional anisotropy were used to build an individual VWM capacity prediction model through a machine learning pipeline, including the steps of feature selection, relevance vector regression, cross‐validation, and model fusion. The resulting model exhibited promising predictive performance on VWM (r = .402, p < .001), and identified features within the subcortical‐cerebellum network, default mode network, motor network, corpus callosum, anterior corona radiata, and external capsule as significant predictors. The main results were then compared with those obtained on emotional regulation and fluid intelligence using the same pipeline, confirming the specificity of our findings. Moreover, the main results maintained well under different cross‐validation regimes and preprocess strategies. These findings, while providing richer evidence for the importance of multimodality in understanding cognitive functions, offer a solid and general foundation for comprehensively understanding the VWM process from the top down.
Prevalence of pregnancy‐related complications and associated factors among reproductive‐aged women in northwest Ethiopia: A community‐based retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kebede Zemene T. , Yigezaw Getachew S. , Yilma Tesfahun M. , Delele Tadesse G.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To determine the Prevalence and factors associated with pregnancy‐related complications among reproductive‐aged women in northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A community‐based retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted among 2367 mothers who delivered from November 2018 to April 2019. Two‐stage stratified random sampling technique was employed in clustered villages from three districts out of 10. Pretested and semi‐structured interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to collect information on pregnancy‐related complications. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the associated factors.

Results

Overall, 2335 (98.6%) women participated in the study. Mean age of respondents was 15.4 (SD ±3.2) years and 1763 (75.5%) of the women were below 18 years of age. The number of pregnancy‐related complications was 372 (15.9%). Severe headache and high fever were the most frequently reported complications. Having a history of known health problem (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 10.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.10–14.10), history of hypertension (aOR 3.90, 95% CI 1.10–14.20), heart problems (aOR 1.90, 95% CI 1.10–3.30), and living in urban areas (aOR 1.40, 95% CI 1.10–1.81) were the factors associated with pregnancy‐related complications.

Conclusion

The number of pregnancy‐related complications was high. Having a history of a known health problem, having a hypertension problem, having a heart problem, and being an urban resident were contributing factors.
Expanding College Programs in U.S. Prisons: Insights From Virginia
Authors: Severson‐Irby Elizabeth A. , Finley Cynthia M. , Muth William R.
Published: December 2020

Authors and columns in this department explicitly focus on adult literacy, addressing issues of research, policy, and practice relevant to a wide range of adult learners in different contexts.
Preregistration Is Neither Sufficient nor Necessary for Good Science
Authors: Pham Michel Tuan , Oh Travis Tae
Published: December 2020

To address widespread perceptions of a reproducibility crisis in the social sciences, a growing number of scholars recommend the systematic preregistration of empirical studies. The purpose of this article is to contribute to an epistemological dialogue on the value of preregistration in consumer research by identifying the limitations, drawbacks, and potential adverse effects of a preregistration system. After a brief review of some of the implementation challenges that commonly arise with preregistration, we raise three levels of issues with a system of preregistration. First, we identify its limitations as a means of advancing consumer knowledge, thus questioning the sufficiency of preregistration in promoting good consumer science. Second, we elaborate on why consumer science can progress even in the absence of preregistration, thereby also questioning the necessity of preregistration in promoting good consumer science. Third, we discuss serious potential adverse effects of preregistration, both at the individual researcher level and at the level of the field as a whole. We conclude by offering a broader perspective on the narrower role that preregistration can play within the general pursuit of building robust and useful knowledge about consumers.
Faculty subcultures in engineering and their implications for organizational change
Authors: Berger Edward J. , Wu Chuhao , Briody Elizabeth K. , Wirtz Elizabeth , Rodríguez‐Mejía Fredy
Published: December 2020

Background

Prior efforts to understand faculty culture have largely described monoliths where individuals are differentiated by their productivity. Little prior work provides rich faculty subcultural descriptions and their connections to specific activities, including disposition to change.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This article describes the goals, assumptions, methods, and inferences made about faculty culture within an engineering department at a large university with very high research activity, with the potential to enrich future discussions about change among the target audience of engineering faculty, administrators, and researchers.

Design/Method

We employ cultural consensus theory (CCT) to characterize faculty culture, based upon a detailed survey, analysis, and member checking. We use the academic ratchet—as a theoretical framework to interpret CCT results, and extend our understanding using previously published change theories.

Results

We discovered two faculty subcultures of roughly equal membership: (a) change‐oriented and (b) continuity‐embracing. Members of each subculture agree on the primacy of research but differ in their views of change, leadership, and trust. Members of the change‐oriented subculture seek large‐scale changes but feel disempowered to pursue them, while members of the continuity‐embracing subculture seek modest changes and feel empowered to enact them.

Conclusions

We introduce a scalable, person‐centered culture characterization approach (CCT) to the engineering education research community. This approach deepens our understanding of faculty culture, and our results reinforce the central role of the academic ratchet in shaping faculty activities. This analysis illustrates the potential roles of each subculture in enacting change of various types and magnitudes.
A review and definition of ‘usual care’ in genetic counseling trials to standardize use in research
Authors: Biesecker Barbara B. , Lillie Sarah E. , Amendola Laura M. , Donohue Katherine E. , East Kelly M. , Foreman Ann Katherine M. , Gilmore Marian J. , Greve Veronica , Liangolou Billie , O'Daniel Julianne M. , Odgis Jacqueline A. , Rego Shannon , Rolf Bradley , Scollon Sarah , Suckiel Sabrina A. , Zepp Jamilyn , Joseph Galen
Published: December 2020

The descriptor ‘usual care’ refers to standard or routine care. Yet, no formal definition exists. The need to define what constitutes usual care arises in clinical research. Often one arm in a trial represents usual care in comparison with a novel intervention. Accordingly, usual care in genetic counseling research appears predominantly in randomized controlled trials. Recent standards for reporting genetic counseling research call for standardization, but do not address usual care. We (1) inventoried all seven studies in the Clinical Sequencing Evidence‐Generating Consortium (CSER) about how genetic counseling was conceptualized, conducted, and whether a usual care arm was involved; (2) conducted a review of published randomized control trials in genetic counseling, comparing how researchers describe usual care groups; and (3) reviewed existing professionally endorsed definitions and practice descriptions of genetic counseling. We found wide variation in the content and delivery of usual care. Descriptions frequently detailed the content of usual care, most often noting assessment of genetic risk factors, collecting family histories, and offering testing. A minority included addressing psychological concerns or the risks versus benefits of testing. Descriptions of how care was delivered were vague except for mode and type of clinician, which varied. This significant variation, beyond differences expected among subspecialties, reduces the validity and generalizability of genetic counseling research. Ideally, research reflects clinical practice so that evidence generated can be used to improve clinical outcomes. To address this objective, we propose a definition of usual care in genetic counseling research that merges common elements from the National Society of Genetic Counselors’ practice definition, the Reciprocal Engagement Model, and the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counselors’ practice‐based competencies. Promoting consistent execution of usual care in the design of genetic counseling trials can lead to more consistency in representing clinical care and facilitate the generation of evidence to improve it.
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 activation inhibits the delayed rectifier potassium channels in hippocampal pyramidal neurons: An implication in pathological changes following pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus
Authors: Zhou Li , Xu Weixing , An Dong , Sha Sha , Men Chen , Li Yingchun , Wang Xiaoli , Du Yimei , Chen Lei
Published: December 2020

Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) can increase hippocampal neuronal excitability. TRPV4 has been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Voltage‐gated potassium channels (VGPCs) play an important role in regulating neuronal excitability and abnormal VGPCs expression or function is related to epilepsy. Here, we examined the effect of TRPV4 activation on the delayed rectifier potassium current (IK) in hippocampal pyramidal neurons and on the Kv subunits expression in male mice. We also explored the role of TRPV4 in changes in Kv subunits expression in male mice following pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus (PISE). Application of TRPV4 agonists, GSK1016790A and 5,6‐EET, markedly reduced IK in hippocampal pyramidal neurons and shifted the voltage‐dependent inactivation curve to the hyperpolarizing direction. GSK1016790A‐ and 5,6‐EET‐induced inhibition of IK was blocked by TRPV4 specific antagonists, HC‐067047 and RN1734. GSK1016790A‐induced inhibition of IK was markedly attenuated by calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMKII) antagonist. Application of GSK1016790A for up to 1 hr did not change the hippocampal protein levels of Kv1.1, Kv1.2, or Kv2.1. Intracerebroventricular injection of GSK1016790A for 3 d reduced the hippocampal protein levels of Kv1.2 and Kv2.1, leaving that of Kv1.1 unchanged. Kv1.2 and Kv2.1 protein levels as well as IK reduced markedly in hippocampi on day 3 post PISE, which was significantly reversed by HC‐067047. We conclude that activation of TRPV4 inhibits IK in hippocampal pyramidal neurons, possibly by activating CaMKII. TRPV4‐induced decrease in Kv1.2 and Kv2.1 expression and IK may be involved in the pathological changes following PISE.
Characteristics of mesoscale convective systems during the warm season over the Tibetan Plateau based on FY‐2 satellite datasets
Authors: Liu Yi , Yao Xiuping , Fei Jianfang , Yang Xiangrong , Sun Jun
Published: December 2020

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) often cause heavy precipitation events during the warm season over the Tibetan Plateau (TP). By using the 1‐hr gridded data sets with the resolution of 0.1° × 0.1° from the geostationary satellites of Fengyun‐2 series (FY‐2C/2E), the characteristics of MCSs over the TP during the warm season (May–August) from 2005 to 2012 are analysed. Based on objective criteria, MCSs over the TP can be divided into six categories, namely mesoscale convection complexes (MCCs), persistent elongated convection systems (PECSs), meso‐β circular convection systems (MβCCSs), meso‐β elongated convection systems (MβECSs), smaller meso‐β circular convection systems (SMβCCSs), as well as smaller meso‐β elongated convection systems (SMβECSs). The results show that there are 1,465 MCSs occurring over the TP during the warm seasons of 2005–2012, and most MCSs occur in a banded area around 30°N with two high‐frequency centres. The frequency of MCSs reaches a maximum in July, followed by August and June, while the lowest frequency occurs in May. The high‐frequency centre is located in the northern part of the TP in May, and moves southward to the central and southern part of the TP from June to August. 82.3% of the MCSs over the TP belong to the elongated categories, out of which MβECSs account for the most. MCSs over the TP have significant diurnal variations, which usually initiate at around 1700 LST (LST, LST = UTC + 8 hr), then develop and reach maturity at 2000 LST, then weaken and dissipate at 2200 LST. The life cycles of MCSs are characterized by slow growth and rapid weakening. The larger the scale of MCSs over the TP is, the longer the duration will be.
Social representations of space travel: Modeling the antecedents and outcomes
Authors: Tasci Asli D. A. , Fyall Alan D. , Fu Xiaoxiao
Published: December 2020

Using Social Representations Theory, the current study modeled different information sources, “anchoring” of space travel, “objectification” of space travel and their influences on attitude towards, support for, and attractiveness of space travel using data from 474 respondents. PLS‐SEM revealed that negative anchors related to space travel influence negative attitude while the objectification of SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and Tesla influence the positive attitudes. Organizations with an interest in space tourism need to use scientific knowledge and scientists, documentary broadcasts, and serious news media for broadening their appeal, as more tangible scientific messages derive the higher response and impact.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Treatment Effects on Cardiovascular Physiology: A Systematic Review and Agenda for Future Research
Authors: Bourassa Kyle J. , Hendrickson Rebecca C. , Reger Greg M. , Norr Aaron M.
Published: December 2020

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is linked to both altered physiological functioning and poorer cardiovascular health outcomes, including an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular‐related mortality. An important question is whether interventions for PTSD might ameliorate the risk for poorer health by improving cardiovascular physiological intermediaries. To begin to characterize the literature addressing this question, we conducted a systematic review of empirical studies examining the impact of PTSD interventions on cardiovascular physiological intermediaries, including blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), cardiac impedance, and subclinical atherosclerosis. Outcomes included both tonic (i.e., resting) cardiovascular functioning and cardiovascular reactivity (CVR). A total of 44 studies met the inclusion criteria. There was mixed evidence regarding whether PTSD treatment improved tonic cardiovascular functioning. There was stronger evidence that PTSD treatments reduced CVR to trauma‐related stressors, particularly for higher‐quality studies of cognitive behavioral interventions. No studies examined cardiac impedance or subclinical atherosclerosis. The studies had a high degree of heterogeneity in the populations sampled and interventions tested. Moreover, they generally included small sample sizes and lacked control conditions. Interventions for PTSD may improve cardiovascular physiological outcomes, particularly CVR to trauma cues, although additional methodologically rigorous studies are needed. We outline changes to future research that would improve the literature regarding this important question, including the more frequent use of control groups and larger sample sizes.
Drug repurposing approach to combating coronavirus: Potential drugs and drug targets
Authors: Xu Jimin , Xue Yu , Zhou Richard , Shi Pei‐Yong , Li Hongmin , Zhou Jia
Published: December 2020

In the past two decades, three highly pathogenic human coronaviruses severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, and, recently, SARS‐CoV‐2, have caused pandemics of severe acute respiratory diseases with alarming morbidity and mortality. Due to the lack of specific anti‐CoV therapies, the ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) poses a great challenge to clinical management and highlights an urgent need for effective interventions. Drug repurposing is a rapid and feasible strategy to identify effective drugs for combating this deadly infection. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic CoV targets, focus on the existing small molecule drugs that have the potential to be repurposed for existing and emerging CoV infections of the future, and discuss the clinical progress of developing small molecule drugs for COVID‐19.
Understanding the tumor microenvironment for effective immunotherapy
Authors: Sadeghi Rad Habib , Monkman James , Warkiani Majid E. , Ladwa Rahul , O'Byrne Ken , Rezaei Nima , Kulasinghe Arutha
Published: December 2020

Advances in immunotherapy have led to durable and long‐term benefits in a subset of patients across a number of solid tumor types. Understanding of the subsets of patients that respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors at the cellular level, and in the context of their tumor microenvironment (TME) is becoming increasingly important. The TME is composed of a heterogeneous milieu of tumor and immune cells. The immune landscape of the TME can inhibit or promote tumor initiation and progression; thus, a deeper understanding of tumor immunity is necessary to develop immunotherapeutic strategies. Recent developments have focused on characterizing the TME immune contexture (type, density, and function) to discover mechanisms and biomarkers that may predict treatment outcomes. This has, in part, been powered by advancements in spatial characterization technologies. In this review article, we address the role of specific immune cells within the TME at various stages of tumor progression and how the immune contexture determinants affecting tumor growth are used therapeutically.
Influence of the PVOH molar mass on the morphology and functional properties of EVOH/PVOH films prepared by melt blending
Authors: Blanchard Anthony , Melis Flavien , Gouanvé Fabrice , Brouillat Jean‐Matthieu , Espuche Eliane
Published: December 2020

The influences of the molar mass (low, medium, and high) and content of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH) dispersed by melt‐blending in an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer on the morphology, microstructure, thermal, mechanical, and oxygen barrier properties were investigated. Multilayer films with external low‐density polyethylene layers and inner EVOH/PVOH blend layer and respective monolayer films were elaborated and characterized. EVOH/PVOH blends exhibited a good compatibility because of the initial presence of PVOH segments in EVOH. The detailed quantitative analysis of the morphology performed for all blends showed that the finest dispersion was obtained with the PVOH with the lowest molar mass. The properties of the films as a function of the PVOH content and its molar mass were determined herein. Significant improvement of barrier properties was obtained at moderated water activities (up to aw = 0.6) by using the PVOH with the lowest molar mass. Compared to the neat EVOH material, the oxygen permeability coefficients decreased by a factor 2 by adding 15 vol% PVOH while the thermal and mechanical properties remained similar.
Applications of direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry in food analysis: A review
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Ren Xiang , Chingin Konstantin
Published: December 2020

Rationale

Direct analysis in real time (DART) combined with mass spectrometry (MS) detection has become one of the most broadly used analytical approaches for the direct molecular characterization of food samples with regard to their chemical quality, safety, origin, and authentication. The major advantages of DART‐MS for food analysis include high chemical sensitivity and specificity, high speed and throughput of analysis, simplicity, and the obviation of tedious sample preparation and solvents.

Methods

The recent applications of DART coupled with different mass analyzers, including quadrupole, ion trap, Orbitrap, and time of flight, are discussed. In addition, sample pretreatment methods that have been coupled with DART‐MS are discussed.

Results

We summarize the applications of DART‐MS in food science and industry published in the period from 2005 to this date. The applications and analytical characteristics are systematically categorized across the three major types of foods: solid foods, liquid foods, and viscous foods.

Conclusions

DART‐MS has proved its high suitability for the direct, rapid, and high‐throughput molecular analysis of very different food samples with minimal or no sample preparation, thus offering a high‐speed alternative to liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) approaches that are traditionally employed in food analysis.